CNN Travel: “This is the year of Naples.”

Naples is the only Italian destination on CNN Travel’s wishlist of the best places to go in 2022.

The annual list of “dream destinations”, which includes national parks and remote islands, pays homage to the “energetic vibes of burgeoning Naples, the Italian birthplace of pizza”.

Citing its ancient ruins beneath modern suburbs, sassy hotels and “scooters zigzagging past palaces of faded glory”, the guide describes the historic center of Naples as “pulsating with energy”.

“Areas that were previously considered off-limits to tourists are finally seen in a different light” – writes CNN – “The once despised district of Sanità is now the place to be”, thanks to its catacombs and art at the ancient royal palace of Capodimonte.

CNN promises Naples has ‘more to come’ on the archaeological front this year, while outside the city Pompeii continues to unveil recently excavated ruins and innovations such as a shuttle between lesser-known ancient villas .

Finally, the guide looks offshore to highlight the island of Procida, Italian capital of culture for 2022.

Naples international recognition comes as audiences around the world watch Netflix movie God’s hand (È stata la mano di Dio) which presents Naples as a backdrop.

The film, a largely autobiographical tale by award-winning Neapolitan director Paolo Sorrentino, is shortlisted for a Golden Globe and was also shortlisted for an Oscar nomination.