Cinemas in Naples: Top 5

Naples has plenty of them, but there was once an even greater number, as going to the cinema used to be one of Neapolitans' favourite pastimes. Nowadays, unfortunately, with the arrival of pay-per-view television such as Sky, Netflix and Mediaset Premium, young people especially prefer to choose the film, TV series or documentary to watch, enjoying it comfortably at home. That said, it's still always a pleasure to get together with friends at the cinema for the latest film release, and when it comes to that, Naples is spoilt for choice.

by Alessia Giannino

Cinema is certainly a passion shared by many: young people, the not-so-young and children alike. A world so fascinating that it has made, and continues to make, history.

Below is a Top 5 of the best cinemas.

1. The Space Cinema (formerly MED Maxicinema): One of the largest in the city, with 11 screens. The biggest holds 706 seats, while the smallest holds 109. Being so large, it naturally offers a wide choice of films. What's more, on Mondays and Tuesdays you can watch a film chosen by the staff for just €3.50. The first screening is at 3.40pm and the last at 11.10pm. Next to the cinema there's also a bar, a pizzeria and a pub where you can stop for a bite to eat before or after the show. Where: Viale Giochi del Mediterraneo, 46.

2. Cinema Martos Metropolitan: With 7 screens, this is Naples's second cinema, in a central location in the heart of Via Chiaia, and is popular with people of all ages. The first screening usually starts at 3.20pm and the last is at 10.50pm. There are various reduced rates and you can also buy season passes. Here too you can stop for a bite at the recently opened Old Wild West. Where: Via Chiaia, 149.

3. Hart Napoli: Known as the former Ambasciatori, today the Hart is a "revolutionary" cinema with sofas, beds and armchairs, where you can watch the film on show in complete comfort. It has just one screen, where events and themed evenings are often organised. On Wednesdays it's also open during the lunch break, when you can watch an old film and enjoy a plate of pasta from your armchair. Where: Via Francesco Crispi, 33.

4. Modernissimo: In the beating heart of the city, in the historic centre, you'll find this cinema, hugely popular especially with young people and university students. 6 screens: the largest seats 439, the smallest just 25. The first screening is at 4pm, the last at 10.40pm. It also shows films in their original language version. Where: Via Cisterna dell'Olio, 49/59.
5. Cinema Plaza: A historic cinema in Vomero, with 3 screens, the largest seating 638 and the smallest 30. The first screening is at 4.30pm and the last at 10.30pm. The cinema has two entrances: the main one on Via Kerbaker, the other on Via Bernini. Where: Via Kerbaker, 85.