Napoli was a wonderful experience for our whole family. Once we got the hang of its lively street life, and with Paola's flat to retreat to in the evenings, it became one of the big highlights of our trip to Italy.

Located in one of the most interesting parts of old Napoli, Paola's place is set high above the chaotic bustle of Via Tibunali in a fifth-floor apartment (yes, lots of stairs but nothing too difficult) with a breathtaking rooftop terrace. It's a cosy and surprisingly quiet apartment, just the right size for our family of four. We spent most of our evenings on the rooftop eating pizza and watching the sun set over the bay and the boats leaving the harbour. A perfect oasis after a busy day.

The apartment is just across the road from Sorbillo, famed as the first restaurant to serve pizza in the city that invented pizza. The street is full of great foodie experiences. One of the highlights of our stay was visiting the Sotterranea - underground Ancient Greek aqueduct system - only a block from the apartment. The really amazing archeological museum is also quite close.

Paola was an excellent host and, even though we weren't able to meet her in person, she made the whole experience of arriving very easy. Her friend, Atta, met us and was very kind and friendly. The flat was equipped with everything we needed (our needs were pretty simple) and we enjoyed all the quirky details such as the mezzanine bedroom and asymmetrical staircase to the roof.

If we get the chance to go back to Napoli, we'll definitely stay in Paola's flat again.