In addition to its excavated ancient Roman villas, Scavi di Stabia, Castellammare prides itself on a number of other worthy attractions. In addition to the archaeological area, we highly recommend an excursion up Monte Faito, the tall mountain (1,100m/3,609 ft. high) looming over the town which offers unrivaled views over the Gulf of Naples. Although you can drive, we'd much rather take the funivia (funicular) from the center of town (Piazza Stazione Circumvesuviana). From April to October, it runs every half-hour, and the round-trip fare is 7€. You can return via funivia, or hike down (it's about an hour for the descent; inquire at the tourist office for more information).
Nuove Terme Stabiane, Viale delle Terme 3, on the slopes of Monte Faito (tel. 081-3913111; www.termedistabia.com), is a state-of-the-art thermal spa near Villa Quisisana, the historic royal summer palace. Downtown, Villa Comunale, off Piazza Giovanni XXIII, near the Stazione Circumvesuviana (free admission; open from sunrise to sunset), is a public garden that opens onto the Gulf of Naples. Not to be missed is the elegant Cassa Armonica (bandstand) -- a Liberty masterpiece created by Eugenio Cosenza in 1901. The castle above the town is private and cannot be visited, nor can you tour the Villa Quisiana, the grand residence of Bourbon royals, which has been recently renovated. For now, the villa is open to the public only for special exhibitions and concerts, although future plans may involve a more permanent opening.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
