The places of My Brilliant Friend: a journey between Naples and Ischia in the emotional geography of the protagonists

The places of My Brilliant Friend are not merely narrative settings. In the novels by Elena Ferrante they become living elements of the story, almost characters themselves, growing and changing alongside Lenù and Lila. Streets filled with voices, crowded courtyards, sunlit beaches and historic buildings create an emotional landscape that reflects the lives of the protagonists.

The literary saga, translated into dozens of languages and adapted into the internationally acclaimed TV series My Brilliant Friend, has made these places recognizable to audiences around the world. Today Naples and Ischia attract readers and travelers who want to follow in the footsteps of the story.

Exploring the places of My Brilliant Friend means discovering an authentic Italy shaped by everyday life. The sound of conversations in narrow alleys, the scent of the sea, and the vibrant rhythm of neighborhoods where stories unfold.

Naples: where the story begins

Among the most important places of My Brilliant Friend, Naples is where the story begins. It is the city where Lenù and Lila grow up. A place of strong friendships, social tensions and the constant desire for a different future.

Many readers identify the Rione Luzzatti as the inspiration for the neighborhood where Lenù and Lila grow up, a place of lively courtyards, apartment blocks and vibrant everyday life..Beyond the neighborhood, other iconic places in Naples also appear in the story.

The Lungomare Caracciolo offers a breathtaking view of the sea and of Mount Vesuvius rising on the horizon, symbolizing both beauty and possibility.

In the historic center, Via dei Tribunali reflects the vibrant heart of the city, with centuries-old buildings, lively streets and traditional restaurants.

Another meaningful place is Palazzo Gravina, associated with Lenù’s intellectual growth and her connection to the academic world.

Walking through these places allows visitors to feel the same tension present in the novels. The struggle between belonging and ambition, between staying and leaving.

Ischia: the island of discovery

If Naples represents the roots of the story, the island of Ischia introduces a new chapter.

When Lenù arrives on the island, the narrative atmosphere shifts. The sea, the light and the landscapes open up a new sense of freedom. Ischia becomes the setting for discovery, personal growth and emotional awakening.

In the picturesque village of Ischia Ponte stands the impressive Castello Aragonese, one of the most recognizable landmarks of the island. Narrow streets filled with the scent of salt and citrus fruits lead toward small squares and seaside views.

The Spiaggia dei Maronti is another iconic location, a long stretch of sand where moments of discovery and transformation unfold.

Nearby, the thermal springs of Baia di Cavascura and the panoramic landscapes of Serrara Fontana add to the atmosphere of freedom and reflection that characterizes this part of the story.

Here life moves at a slower rhythm. Fishermen repairing nets, markets selling fresh seafood, and colorful houses overlooking the sea create a timeless Mediterranean landscape.

Literary tourism and the places of My Brilliant Friend

The global success of the novels and TV adaptation has sparked a growing trend: literary tourism linked to the places of My Brilliant Friend.

Every year, more travelers visit Naples and Ischia to see the neighborhoods and landscapes that inspired the story. Guided tours lead visitors through streets that mirror the atmosphere of the books.

For many, it becomes more than sightseeing. It is a journey into everyday Italian life — the colors of old buildings, the sounds of markets, the aroma of coffee from local cafés.

In these places, readers reconnect with Ferrante’s story while discovering the authentic soul of southern Italy.

Living in the places of the novel

For some travelers, visiting the places of My Brilliant Friend becomes more than a simple trip. The charm of Naples and Ischia often inspires the desire to stay longer and experience everyday life.

These places still offer authentic neighborhoods, lively streets, local markets and terraces overlooking the sea. Here daily life follows simple rituals: a coffee at the bar, voices in the courtyards, the smell of home cooking from open windows.

Experiencing these places means stepping into the world described by Ferrante—an Italy that is vibrant, imperfect and deeply human.

Imagine living every day in the places of the novel. Explore how to find your home here!