I was stationed in Spain from 1960 to 1964 and we used to catch hops over to Naples and mess around Italy.
My first encounter in Naples was with a horde of children who surrounded us. The bunch in front distracted you with hands outstretched and shouts of candy and chewing gum. Those closest to you, bumped against you so you wouldn’t notice that those behind you had their hands in your pockets and were stealing anything that they could grab.
The kids were trained by the adults who had other, more lucrative skills.
After getting burned several times and in several ways, I learned about Naples and enjoyed Italy. Later I lived in Northern Italy (the Dolomites) and learned Italian.
It’s possible to be lucky and miss these charming experiences but my advice is make day trips to Naples, keep to brightly lit and populated areas, don’t let anyone get too close to you and leave before dark.
That said, I want to travel by bus next year from Rome to Sorrento.
Has anyone done this or have any information about it?
No trains and I’d just as soon skirt Naples.