29 Best Things To Do in Napoli (Naples, Italy 2024) By A Frequent Visitor

How to describe Napoli?  Perhaps controlled chaos is a start.

I have been to Napoli numerous times, and I have to say that this last visit was different.  Napoli has cleaned up its act which has greatly impressed me.  Yes, there is still plenty of graffiti on the walls and some trash around the town, but it feels safer and happier. 

This is a city of great contrast – religious devotion yet at times violent.  During our visit, we had only positive experiences and enjoyed wandering through the Centro Storico (Historic Center) and the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarter). 

Napoli is vibrant and captivating, with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.  It is on the Bay of Naples with great views of Mount Vesuvius in the background.  The city has a lot to offer, and we want to share our recommendations with you.

Below are plenty of Napoli things to do, so prepare to walk and let’s explore together.

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Best Things To Do in Napoli

Many of the attractions and things to do and see are in the Centro Storico and the Quartieri Spagnoli.  Both areas are walkable, which is really the only option since most of the streets and alleys are very narrow and pedestrian-only.

1. Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo 

This church has a unique façade made from lava stone.  Some of the diamond-shaped stones have engraved markings.  There are lots of theories about the markings. The most recent is that the markings are Aramaic characters, notes of a musical score engraved on the façade of the church.

Gesu Nuovo Church in the Historic Center with the diamond stone facade.

Gesù Nuovo (New Jesus) is a prominent example of Neapolitan Baroque architecture.  The grand interiors, bronze bas-reliefs, wooden crucifix, frescoes, and chapels are something to behold.

Interior of the Gesu Nuovo Church in the Historic Center of Napoli.

During World War II, the church was damaged in the airstrikes. One of the bombs that came across the ceiling did not explode.  This bomb is on display inside the church.

➡️ Google Map / Hours: Open 7am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm Sunday to Saturday / Free to the Public


2. Chiostri di Santa Chiara in Centro Historico Napoli

The Santa Chiara Church and Cloister is worth spending the time to explore.  Built in 1310, the church is gothic. It has a simple façade with a rose stained-glass window.

The Santa Chiara Church in Napoli was built in 1310 in the gothic style with a rose stained glass window.

The interior of the church has ornate altars, sculptures, and ceilings with frescoes depicting stories from the Bible. 

Stop to see the nativity scene depicting life from the 18th and 19th centuries.

A Naploi thing to do is to view the nativity scene in the Santa Chiara Church.
Photo by Steve Knight

The true jewel of the complex is the Cloister of Santa Chiara. The Cloister is a blend of Italian Renaissance and Spanish influence, featuring arches, gardens, and majolica tiles.  It is stunning and a pleasant respite from the busy streets of Naples.

The majolica tiles at the Santa Chiara Cloister in Naples are stunning and peaceful.
Photo by Steve Knight

The Cloister is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 5:30pm and Sunday 10:00am to 2:30pm. The cost is €6.  An audio guide is available by scanning a QR code while at the complex.

The Church is open Monday to Saturday from 8:00am to 12:45pm then 2:30pm to 8:00pm.  On Sunday, the hours are 9:00am to 12:45pm then 4:30pm to 8:00pm.  The Church is free to the public.

➡️ Google Map


3. Piazza Bellini in Napoli

The piazza is located on top of the ancient Greek settlement of Neapolis.  Here you can see the remnants of the Greek city walls and structures in and around the square.

In Napoli, the Piazza Bellini sits on top of Greek ruins which can be seen in the piazza.

The Greek walls were built using tuff which is a local volcanic stone.  It has a light, yellow color and porous nature compared to the black tuff stone used to construct the Napoli historic center.

This piazza is very popular with students in the evening since the university is nearby.

➡️ Google Map


4. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore alla Pietrasanta e Lapis Museo

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Built in the 11th century, the Basilica is on top of a Roman temple.

With side chapels and a central dome, the Basilica is Greek in design. Beautiful majolica flooring was added in the 18th century. Adjacent to the basilica rises the elegant bell tower. 

In the historic center of Naples, the bell tower is adjacent to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Amazingly underneath the basilica lies an ancient aqueduct, now known as the LAPIS Museum (Museo dell’Acqua – water museum).  Opened in 2021, this hidden treasure reveals the ingenuity of the Roman civilization that thrived in this area. 

The entrance to the ancient aqueduct, Lapis Museum, is through the Basilica.

The aqueduct served as a vital water supply system, transporting water from distant sources to the city.  Walking through the dimly light tunnels transports you back in time.  Guided tours of the aqueduct are available daily through the museum.

➡️ Google Map / Lapis Museum Open Monday to Sunday 10:00 to 20:00 / Advance Ticket Purchase


5. Busto di Pulcinella in Centro Storico Napoli

The bronze bust of Pulcinella is an interesting sculpture that pays homage to the iconic and beloved character.  This bust captures the essence of Pulcinella’s playful personality and theatrical charm.

The bronze statue of Pulcinella is tucked along an alleyway in Napoli.  Rub his nose for good luck.

With its expressive features and intricate details, the sculpture brings to life the mischievous spirit and distinctive appearance of this legendary figure.  Make sure you rub his nose for good fortune!

➡️ Google Map


6. Napoli Sotterranea

The Underground Naples lies beneath the old town.  The vast network of tunnels, passageways, and chambers unveil layers of history spanning centuries.

The Napoli Sotterranea explores the Greek and Roman aqueducts and passageways under the city.

Exploring Napoli Sotterranea is like stepping into a hidden world, where Greek and Roman aqueducts, catacombs, and even World War II air-raid shelters coexist.  The tunnels wind through tuff stone, revealing archaeological remains and providing insights into the city’s past. 

Guided tours will take you on a journey through the underground, shedding light on the daily life, customs, and challenges faced by the people of Naples through history.

➡️ Google Map / Book a Tour and Skip the Line


7. Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore e La Neapolis Sotterrata

This monumental complex consists of a basilica and an archaeological area that preserves the remains of ancient Greek and Roman structures.  The Basilica San Lorenzo Maggiore, dating back to the 13th century, showcases a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with its majestic façade and intricate interior with beautiful frescoes and sculptures.

The Basilica of San Lorenzo is above the Naples Underground City.  The Neapolis is from the Greek and Roman period.

La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground) is below the Basilica. Taking a step back in time, you will walk along the preserved streets of the ancient Greek-Roman city of Neapolis.  The ruins reveal insights into daily life during different eras, with highlights including a Roman market and thermal baths.

➡️ Google Map / Book a Tour and Skip the Line


8. Madonna con la Pistola

The Madonna with Gun is the work of British street artist, Banksy.  It is believed that this is the only surviving Banksy left in Italy. The street art has a protective covering, and the restaurant next door is responsible for its safekeeping.

The Madonna with Gun is street art created by Banksy.

This is a captivating visual of the Madonna with a gun above her head instead of a halo.  It depicts a thought-provoking scene that shows the societal contrast between religion and gun violence.

➡️ Google Map


9. Duomo di Napoli

This Naples Cathedral has several names including the Cattedrale di San Gennaro.  Naples has over 500 churches within the city. The Duomo is the dominate church in Naples. San Gennaro is the patron saint.

The Duomo di Napoli is dedicated to their patron saint, San Gennaro.

Its construction dates to the 13th century, with additions and renovations added over the centuries resulting in a unique blend of architectural style.  The exterior façade is a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.  The interior has intricate marble work, stunning frescoes, and ornate chapels.

Inside the Duomo of Naples, under the main altar, are the relics of San Gennaro.

The highlight of the cathedral is the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, which houses the relics of Naples’ patron saint.

➡️ Google Map


10. Murale di San Gennaro in Napoli

The 50-foot Mural of San Gennaro painted on a building in the Forcella district in Napoli, is a noteworthy piece of artwork paying homage to the patron saint of Naples.  In 2015, street artist Jorit Agoch painted the mural.

Mural of San Gennaro painted by Jorit Agoch.

In this mural, San Gennaro looks like a 30-year-old Neapolitan factory worker.  The theory is that the artist was sending a message to the citizens of Naples. The people should not wait for a miracle to happen but, instead, take the lead and be proactive in defending and protecting the city of Naples.

➡️ Google Map


11. Spaccanapoli

Spaccanapoli is a famous area in Naples.  The name translates to Naples’s splitter.  It is a long, narrow street that cuts through the heart of the historic center.

Spaccanapoli is a long street that splits the city of Naples in half.

Walking along Spaccanapoli, you can experience the authentic atmosphere of Napoli.  There are shops, local markets, pizzerias, churches and important buildings along the way. It passes more important landmarks such as the Church of Santa Chiara, San Domenico Maggiore, and the Duomo di Napoli.

➡️ Google Map


12. Via San Gregorio Armeno

A walk along Via San Gregorio Armeno reminds me of Christmas. In Naples, it is known as “Christmas Alley” or the “Street of the Nativity Scene”.

Via San Gregorio Armeno in Napoli is lined with stores selling nativity scenes.  It is known as Christmas Alley.

Located in the heart of the historical center off of the Spaccanapoli, this charming street marks the place of creativity and craftsmanship.  As you walk along Via San Gregorio Armeno, you will find numerous shops and workshops dedicated to the creation of intricate nativity scenes, known as “Presepe” in Italian.

Via Gregorio Armeno is perfect for gift shopping!

➡️ Google Map


13. Museo Doma Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore

Here is another Gothic-style church and monastery built in the 13th century. It is now known as the Doma Museum. The exterior looks pieced together and faces a piazza with cafes and seating. 

The basilica of San Domenico Maggiore houses an incredible museum of artwork from famous Italian artists.

But the interior is ornate and adorned with frescoes painted by Pietro Cavallini, Francesco Solimena, and others.  The sarcophagi of 46 Aragon princes and other people of importance are well worth seeing.

Tickets are available for purchase online through the museum which includes a guided tour and a visit to the Cell of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Sacristy, Treasure Room, and the Crypt of the Carafa di Roccella.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour to See the Doma Museum


14. Museo Cappella Sansevero

The Sansevero Chapel Museum combines art, history, and mystery.  Originally it was a private chapel, then transformed into a museum in the 19th century to showcase the remarkable artworks and sculptures.

The main highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the stunning masterpiece, “The Veiled Christ” by Giuseppe Sanmartino.  This astonishing sculpture depicts the body of Christ covered in a transparent marble veil, a true marvel that seems to defy the law of physics.

The Veiled Christ sculpture in the Sansevero Chapel defies the laws of physics.

The veil looks so real, and you get a sense of movement while admiring this sculpture. But the museum also features other works of art, including the anatomical models known as anatomical machines, created by the alchemist and artist Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of Sansevero.

This is a very popular attraction, and it is necessary to buy a ticket in advance. Also, photography is not allowed in the museum.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour and Skip the Line


15. Museo Archeologico Nazionale

The National Archaeological Museum in Naples is truly a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. The museum has an extensive collection that spans over 2,500 years of history, showcasing works from ancient Rome, Greece, and Egypt. 

The National Archaeological Museum in Napoli houses works for Greek, Roman and Egyptian periods.
Photo by Steve Knight

There is a significant collection from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Some of the pieces include mosaics, frescoes, and pottery.

Frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum on display at the Archaeological Museum.
Photo by Steve Knight

One of the highlights of the museum is the Farnese Collection, which includes the Farnese Hercules and the Farnese Bull.  Two iconic marble sculptures that are bigger than life.

The Hercules marble sculpture in the Farnese collection at the Archaeological Museum in Naples.
Photo by Steve Knight

Another special section is The Secret Cabinet. This is dedicated to the erotic and explicit Roman artworks found during the excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. It is controversial and it took a very long time to finally open to the public in 2000.  Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to view this exhibit.

Pottery from the Secret Cabinet is on display at the Archaeological Museum.
Photo by Steve Knight

Tickets to tour the exhibits are available directly through the museum.

➡️ Google Map


16. Castel Nuovo in Napoli

Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is a medieval fortress built in the 13th century by the Angevin dynasty.  With stone walls and 5 towers, the castle was a symbol of power and resilience for centuries.

The Castel Buovo in Naples is a medieval fortress next to the port.
Photo by Steve Knight

As you approach the castle, you will see the grand Renaissance arch with sculptures and the bronze equestrian statue of Charles I of Anjou.  Inside is a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture with halls, chapels, and courtyards.

Today, Castel Nuovo houses the Museo Civico, a civic museum displaying paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from different periods.  From the rooftop, there is a beautiful view of the city and the Bay of Naples.

The Fortress is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 6:30pm. Tickets can be purchased online.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour and Skip the Line


17. Teatro di San Carlo

The San Carlo Theater is a world-renowned opera house.  Established in 1737, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously active opera house in Europe.  The opulent foyer transports you to a world of elegance and grandeur. 

The San Carlo Theater is the oldest continuously active theater in Europe.

The theater’s lavish interior has magnificent chandeliers, plush velvet seats. and intricate gilded decorations throughout.

A 30-minute guided tour is available Monday through Sunday.  Schedule the tour directly with the theater.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour


18. Galleria Umberto I in Napoli

The Galleria Umberto I is a stunning architectural masterpiece constructed in the late 19th century.  This shopping gallery combines neoclassical and Art Nouveau elements, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and elegance. 

The Galleria Umberto I is an elegant shopping mall in Napoli.
Photo by Steve Knight

When you enter the Galleria, you will see the soaring glass dome that bathes the space in natural light.  Thus, illuminating the ornate mosaics, ironwork, and marble floors below.

The Galleria is a good place to take a break and explore the shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

➡️ Google Map 


19. Chiesa di San Ferdinando 

The Church of San Ferdinando began construction in the late 17th century.  It is located on the Piazza Trieste e Trento near the Piazza del Plebiscito, in the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarter).

The Church of San Ferdinando is known as the Artists Church since funerals of famous artists and actors take place here.

The church is dedicated to King Ferdinand IV of Napoli. It is known as the Artists Church since funerals of famous artists and actors are celebrated here.

A Presepe (nativity) scene from the 19th century is on display year-round in Church.

For art lovers, Baroque frescoes by Paolo de Matteis from the late 17th century are inside the church.   A Presepe (nativity) is on display throughout the year depicting a village scene from the 19th century.

➡️ Google Map 


20. Gran Caffé Gambrinus

Gran Caffé Gambrinus is located near the Piazza del Plebiscito and is a perfect spot to take a break from touring.  It is an iconic and historic café that has been a cultural institution in Napoli for over 150 years.  Stepping into the café is like stepping back in time to the Belle Epoque era, with its ornate décor, high ceilings, chandeliers, and beautiful furnishings. 

Caffe Gambrinus is an iconic cafe serving delicious pastries and coffee.

The legendary café has welcomed intellectuals, artists, and prominent figures throughout history.  This is a place to stop for a Neapolitan coffee and a delectable pastry.  Making a decision is quite difficult here – all of the pastries look amazing!

Pastry case at the Caffe Gambrinus in Napoli.

➡️ Google Map 


21. Piazza del Plebiscito 

Piazza del Plebiscito is a grand and majestic square that serves as a focal point of the city’s social and cultural life.  Named after the plebiscite (vote by the entire population) held in 1860, marking the annexation of Naples to the Kingdom of Italy, the square has a historical significance.

Piazza di Plebiscito is the main square in Naples.

The centerpiece of the square is the San Francesco di Paolo Church.  On the other side of the square stands the Royal Palace of Naples. 

The San Francesco di Paolo Church is a main attraction on the Piazza del Plebiscito in Napoli.
San Francesco di Paolo Church – photo by Steve Knight

In the center of the square, there are two equestrian statues.  The first statue depicts Charles III of Bourbon, who was the King of Naples and Sicily from 1743 to 1759.  The second statue represents Ferdinand I of Bourbon, Charles III’s son and successor, who was the King of the Two Sicilies from 1759 to 1825.

Equestrian statues in the Piazza del Plebiscito in Napoli.

Piazza del Plebiscito is often full of activity, from cultural events and concerts to political gatherings and public celebrations.

➡️ Google Map 


22. Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola 

The Church of San Francesco of Paola is on the Piazza del Plebiscito. Construction was completed in 1846.  It has a neoclassical design inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.  The exterior of the church features a colonnade with majestic Corinthian columns, like St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, that create a sense of elegance and grandeur.

The Church of San Francesco of Paolo resembles the Pantheon in Rome.

The interior is equally impressive, with two side domes.  The main dome is 174 feet high (53 meters).  During our last visit, there was a wedding at the main altar. 

A wedding was being performed inside the Chiesa di San Francesco di Paolo.

The Church is free to the public.

➡️ Google Map 


23. Palazzo Reale di Napoli

The Royal Palace of Naples is on the Piazza del Plebiscito across from the Chiesa di San Francesco di Paola.  It was built in the 17th century and served as one of the four royal residences for the House of Bourbon.

The Royal Palace of Naples is on the Piazza del Plebiscito and was a home to the house of Bourbon.

On the western exterior façade of the palace, statues of the prominent rulers are displayed in order of reign starting with Roger the Norman and ending with Vittorio Emanuele II.

Tours of the palace are available and can be booked online.  Some of the notable rooms to visit are the Royal Apartments, the Throne Room, the Court Theater, the Royal Chapel, and the Gallery of Paintings.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour and Skip the Line


24. Lungomare di Napoli 

The Lungomare in Naples is a waterfront promenade that stretches along the city’s coastline.  The promenade is 3km long starting south of the Piazza del Plebiscito, in the Santa Lucia district, and ending in Mergellina.

Strolling along the Lungomare in Napoli is popular with locals and tourists alike.

As you walk along the Lungomare, you will see the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the background.  There are cafes, gelaterias, and restaurants as well as some statues and the Castel Dell’Ovo along the way.

Looking at the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the background as we stroll along the lungomare.
Photo by Steve Knight

This is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful views.

➡️ Google Map 


25. Castel Dell’Ovo

The Castel Dell”Ovo (Egg Castle) is along the Lungomare on the former island of Megaride (now a peninsula) in the Bay of Naples.  Its name, “Egg Castle”, comes from a legend that an egg is hidden within its foundations, serving as a protective charm.

The Castel Dell'Ovo, Egg Castle, is the oldest castle in Naples built in 1128.
Photo by Steve Knight

This is the oldest castle in Naples, built in 1128.  It has been a fortress, a monastery, a prison, and a royal residence.  Entry to the castle is free but guided tours are available for a fee.

At the base of the castle, is a small port named Borgo Marinari.  This area has a marina and restaurants specializing in fresh fish and seafood.

Borgo Marinari is a small port at the base of the Castel Dell'Ovo in Napoli.

Special Note – as of winter 2024, the castle is temporarily closed due to renovation work.

➡️ Google Map 


26. Murales di Diego Armando Maradona

The Maradona mural is a tribute to Diego Maradona, considered in Naples to be one of the greatest football (soccer in U.S.A.) players of all time.  The mural is in the Quartieri Spagnoli, painted on the side of a building by Italian street artist, Jorit Agoch. 

The mural of Maradona was painted by Jorit Agoch and is in the Spanish Quarter.

Maradona played for Napoli in the 1980s and he led them to unprecedented success.  The mural depicts Maradona in his Napoli jersey, displaying his famous number 10.

Below the mural, there are stalls selling football souvenirs and pictures. This area is packed with people so be on the lookout for pickpockets.

➡️ Google Map 


27. Ercolano Scavi (Herculaneum) 

Herculaneum is in Ercolano, about 25 minutes from the city of Naples. This remarkably preserved archaeological site offers a glimpse into the daily life of its inhabitants before the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

Unlike the destruction of Pompeii, Herculaneum was engulfed by a pyroclastic flow – a fast- moving mixture of hot gas, ash, and volcanic debris.  The flow overwhelmed the city, killing the inhabitants yet preserving the structures and their contents.

Herculaneum is a well-preserved Roman city just outside of Naples.

I was surprised at how well-preserved the structures, artifacts, and artwork are from the ancient Roman times at Herculaneum.  Some of the highlights include preserved houses with frescoes and mosaics, as well as the Villa dei Papyri, believed to be the home of Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

What else is amazing, are the Boat Sheds. Herculaneum was on the Bay of Naples, but the bay has receded over time. It is very eerie looking at the sheds knowing that inside are the remains of the inhabitants trying to flee the explosion via boat.

The boat sheds at Herculaneum are the final resting place for many inhabitants trying to escape the eruption.

Herculaneum is smaller than Pompeii, thus less crowded.  It is easy to spend at least a half day there. I would recommend having a guide when visiting Herculaneum.

If choosing to visit this site on your own, it can be reached via the Circumvesuviana train departing from the Napoli Piazza Garibaldi Station to the Ercolano Scavi stop.  The ride is about 25 minutes.  From the Ercolano Station, it is a 10-minute walk downhill to the Herculaneum ticket office.

Tickets can be purchased at the office or online. The site is open 7 days a week from 8:30am to 7:30pm during the summer, closing at 5:30pm during the fall through the spring.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour with a Guide at Herculaneum


28. Parco Archeologico di Pompeii

The Pompeii Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It is 15 miles southeast of the city of Naples and 5 miles from Mount Vesuvius.  This is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Italy.

Like its neighbor, Herculaneum, Pompeii was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.  The flow of rocks, ash, and pumice buried Pompeii and its inhabitants.  As it solidified over time, a protective layer was created, preserving the Roman city below it. 

Pompeii is a well-preserved archaeological site south of Napoli.

There is a lot to see at Pompeii including well-preserved homes, the Forum, the Amphitheater, Temples, the Theaters, and the Street of Tombs.  You should plan for a full day to see this site. 

There are many things to see while visiting Pompeii including theaters, streets and preserved homes.

If staying in Naples, the easiest way to reach Pompeii is via the Circumvesuviana train.  It departs from the Napoli Piazza Garibaldi train station to the Pompei Villa dei Misteri station.  The entrance to the site is directly in front of the station. The trip takes about 45 minutes.

The archaeological site is open 7 days a week from 9:00am to 7:00pm during the summer, and 5:00pm from fall to spring. During the high season (summer), I would recommend purchasing a ticket and timeslot online. The best way to truly appreciate the visit is to have a guided tour.

➡️ Google Map / Book a Tour with a Guide at Pompeii


29. Mount Vesuvius 

Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano in mainland Europe.  It is located within the Vesuvius National Park (Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio). 

The Park provides opportunities to explore the volcanic landscape, enjoy the hiking trails, and learn about the region’s history and biodiversity.  It is home to a variety of plant and animal species that have adapted to the volcanic environment.

Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano in Naples.

The park offers visitor facilities, including information centers, walking paths, and guided tours to the crater.  If visiting the crater on your own (without a tour group), a ticket must be purchased online prior to the visit.  The entrance fee is €10.

The park is open daily unless there is bad weather or volcanic activity. Plan for at least a half day to visit the park.

➡️ Google Map / Book A Tour to Visit Mt. Vesuvius


Top Tours in Napoli

Walking Tours of the Historic Center

The best way to explore Naples is on foot. You will discover the hidden treasures that lie within its narrow, winding streets.  A knowledgeable guide will provide insights and stories about the history and culture not found in tour books.

Tours of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Mount Vesuvius

Leave the transportation to these sites outside of the main city of Naples to a private tour group.  There are a variety of half-day or full-day tours available to visit these attractions.

FREE Walking Tours of Napoli

This is a great way to get to know the city with a local guide who lives there. I always take the tour to get a better understanding of the area and then return to the sites that I want to spend more time seeing.  Even though the walking tour is free, tipping the guide is highly recommended.

Where to Stay in Naples, Italy

Most of the major sites to visit are in the old town (Centro Storico) and the Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli).  The following hotels are in areas that are easily accessible to the main part of Naples.

📍Best Budget Spot – Hotel Meublé Santa Chiara Suite

Located in the heart of the Centro Storico, Hotel Meuble is walking distance to all the major sites.  The rooms are simple and include a complimentary Italian breakfast.

📍Best Mid-Range Spot – Napolit’amo Hotel Medina

This moderate hotel is located inside an office building on the 3rd floor.  The location is ideal – in between the Centro Storico and the Quartieri Spagnoli.  It is an easy walk to the Piazza Plebiscito or the Gesù Nuovo Church.  The rooms are comfortable and include a complimentary breakfast.

📍Best Luxury Spot Palazzo Doria Napoli

This is a luxurious hotel on Via Toledo at the Piazza Sette Settembre.  It is within walking distance of the attractions in the Centro Storico.  The rooms are big and ornate – you feel like you are staying in a palace.  An Italian breakfast is included.

Naples offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with stunning views of the Bay of Naples to charming boutique properties in the historic center. You’ll find options to suit every budget and preference.

🎈Hotels: Click here to book your stay in Naples (Napoli)

FAQ: Napoli Travel Tips

When visiting Naples, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

Heavily crowded areas can attract pickpockets and thieves.  Keep jewelry to a minimum, be discreet when pulling out your money, and keep track of your handbag, backpacks, and wallet.

The following are some answers to frequently asked questions about Napoli.

What is Naples, Italy famous for?

Naples’ claim to fame is pizza.  The renowned Margherita Pizza was born here.  The pizza was named after Queen Margherita in 1889. The typical Neapolitan pizza is made from San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and olive oil.  The crust is soft and pillowy.

How many days is enough in Naples?

This depends on what you want to do.  If you like to spend time visiting museums and want to see Pompeii and Herculaneum, then 4 or 5 days would be recommended.  If you want to take a walking tour and get an overview of the city, then 2 days would be possible.

What is the best month to visit Napoli?

May is a good month to visit Napoli.  The weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are less compared to the summer months.

Is Naples, Italy worth visiting?

Absolutely!  Naples offers a unique blend of ancient ruins above and below ground, bustling streets like Spaccanapoli, and delicious pizza, pastries, and coffee.  Where else can you see an active volcano looming in the background with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Final Thoughts: Things To Do In Napoli

As I stated at the beginning, Naples has changed for the better.  It is more manageable now even though it is still chaotic.  Maybe that is part of the charm and reflects the lifestyle of the Neapolitans.

When visiting the city, it is most important to plan where you want to go and what you want to see.  The main sightseeing areas are the Historic Center and the Spanish Quarter.  I would recommend doing a walking tour. This will help in learning the layout of the city.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, a food lover or simply a traveler seeking to immerse yourself in the authentic Italian way of life, Naples has something to offer everyone.  A visit to Naples is a truly unforgettable experience.

If you would like assistance in planning your trip to Naples, Italy, we would be happy to help.  Please refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or send us an email.

If you want to explore more in Southern Italy, check out our following posts:

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