What to do in Naples?

Naples, the vibrant capital of Campania, is far more than just a destination: it is one of the most iconic symbols of Italy. When people think of Naples, they think of authenticity — the "real Italy" where tradition and family values hold a central place.

It is a city where culture and warmth combine to create a uniquely welcoming atmosphere. From its legendary cuisine and picturesque alleyways to its fascinating historical heritage, Naples is a true celebration of the Italian dolce vita. It is no surprise that it consistently ranks among the top 5 most visited cities in Italy, drawing travellers from every corner of the world.

Whether you are drawn by its breathtaking views over the bay, its history-rich museums, or the vibrant energy of its markets, Naples promises an authentic and unforgettable experience — a genuine immersion into the soul of Italy. In this article, discover the best things to do and places not to miss in Naples to make the most of your stay in this fascinating city.

Visiting Naples: a travel guide to discover this unique city

Naples is a living testament to a rich and turbulent history. A city that captivates you with its narrow streets in the historic centre, where the scent of freshly wood-fired pizza mingles with the bustle of local markets. Explore baroque façades and admire ancient ruins. Stroll along the lungomare with views of the majestic Vesuvius and the glittering waters of the bay. Naples is also an invitation to explore a vast cultural heritage, through wonders such as the Sansevero Chapel, Castel dell'Ovo, and the National Archaeological Museum. And that is just the beginning: every street corner holds a new discovery, and every moment spent here writes a new page of memories.

 

Top things to do in Naples — must-see highlights

Naples is a city best experienced outdoors. Its vibrant energy pulses through its lively streets, iconic squares, and breathtaking viewpoints. So much of life here unfolds in the open air, at the heart of its distinctive neighbourhoods. But Naples goes beyond its outdoor life: it also holds treasures to discover indoors and even underground, offering truly extraordinary experiences.

Rich in thousands of years of history and an exceptional artistic heritage, the city offers a fascinating blend of culture, tradition and modernity. Whether you are drawn to its stunning landscapes, prestigious museums, or its underground network steeped in mystery, Naples is a destination that promises discoveries at every turn.

Here is a selection of the essential things to do to immerse yourself in the soul of this remarkable city.

Ride the funicular for unforgettable panoramic views

Naples' funiculars are more than just a way to get around — they are gateways to spectacular viewpoints. Board one to reach Vomero, a hilltop neighbourhood offering sweeping panoramic views over the Bay of Naples. Once there, explore Castel Sant'Elmo, an impressive medieval fortress, and the Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery turned museum, combining history with breathtaking scenery.

Wander through the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Naples' historic centre is a journey through centuries of history and culture. Lose yourself in its cobbled alleyways, discover magnificent baroque churches such as Santa Chiara, and admire the ancient ruins scattered throughout the city. Do not miss Spaccanapoli, the iconic thoroughfare that cuts through the heart of the city, or Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its artisan nativity workshops. This neighbourhood is an open-air museum that reveals the vibrant soul of Naples.

Explore the city's depths with Naples Underground

Beneath the busy streets of Naples lies a hidden and fascinating world: Naples Underground. This network of tunnels, catacombs, and aqueducts dating back to the Greco-Roman era offers a unique journey through history. You will discover architectural remains, forgotten amphitheatres, and even shelters used during the Second World War. A captivating experience for anyone drawn to mystery and unusual discoveries.

Taste the world's best pizza

Naples is the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, celebrated worldwide for its simplicity and unmatched flavour. Made with fresh, local ingredients, it is a symbol of Italian culinary culture. Head to iconic pizzerias such as Da Michele or Sorbillo, where quality and tradition draw food lovers from across the globe. One bite is enough to understand why this pizza is considered the best in the world.

Watch the sunset from the seafront

The Naples lungomare is the perfect spot to enjoy the magic of a Mediterranean sunset. This seafront promenade offers stunning views of Vesuvius, Castel dell'Ovo, and the islands of Capri and Ischia. Settle into a seaside café or stroll along the waterfront for an experience that is both peaceful and enchanting.

Take a day trip to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Just outside Naples, two iconic sites are absolutely worth a visit. Pompeii, the Roman city buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, transports you to a past frozen in time. Then, climb Vesuvius, an active volcano whose summit offers a spectacular view over the entire region. This combination of history and nature is an essential experience for any traveller.

Visiting Naples in 1 day

If you only have one day to explore Naples, here is an express itinerary to dive into the heart of Neapolitan authenticity and discover its most iconic treasures. Get ready for an intense and memorable day!

Morning: Immersion in the historic centre

Start your day with a walk through the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make your way along the famous Spaccanapoli, the iconic street that cuts through the city and gives you a feel for its unique atmosphere. Stop at the Sansevero Chapel to admire the masterpiece of the Veiled Christ, a sculpture that astonishes with its delicacy and realism.

Continue your stroll towards the baroque churches and lively alleyways of the neighbourhood. A quick visit to Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its nativity artisans, will give you a glimpse of a craft tradition unique to Naples.

Lunch: The world's best pizza

After a cultural morning, it is time to savour one of Naples' greatest treasures: its pizza. Head to a legendary pizzeria such as Sorbillo or Da Michele to try an authentic Neapolitan pizza — an absolute must during your visit.

Afternoon: Panoramas and history

After lunch, head to Piazza del Plebiscito, a majestic square surrounded by landmark buildings including the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola with its neoclassical colonnades. Make a quick stop at the Teatro San Carlo, one of the oldest opera houses in Europe, before continuing to Castel Nuovo. This imposing castle, a symbol of Neapolitan history, offers magnificent views over the bay and a glimpse into both medieval and Renaissance eras.

Next, take the funicular up to Vomero, a neighbourhood perched above the city. Visit Castel Sant'Elmo, a medieval fortress with a sweeping 360° panorama over Naples, Vesuvius, and the sea. Take a moment to soak in the view — a peaceful pause above the city's bustling energy.

End of day: Sunset along the lungomare

To round off your day, head back down to the waterfront and stroll along the lungomare, the perfect promenade for watching the sunset. Castel dell'Ovo, perched on a small islet, makes for a stunning backdrop and memorable photos. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular views over the bay as you bring your Naples adventure to a close.

Visiting Naples in 2 days

Two days in Naples is enough to fully appreciate the city and soak up its unique way of life, where vibrant energy and warmth are ever-present. I remember when we visited — we spent three days there, after booking a flight on 1 January for just 4 euros per person. We discovered Naples as the city was waking up after New Year's celebrations. Each day was intense, filled with movement, noise, and an energy that seems to define the place. Naples, with its charming chaos and relentless rhythm, pulls you in immediately into an experience unlike any other.

To help you make the most of this captivating city, we have put together our best tips for exploring Naples in just two days. A short but unforgettable immersion into a city that leaves no one indifferent.

Day 1: Into the historic heart

Morning: Exploring the historic centre

Begin your adventure with a walk through the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander along Spaccanapoli, the iconic thoroughfare lined with shops, churches, and historic palaces. Do not miss the Sansevero Chapel, where the extraordinary sculpture of the Veiled Christ captivates with its finesse and realism.

Continue your visit to the Naples Cathedral, dedicated to San Gennaro, the city's patron saint. Its richly decorated chapel is an essential stop for understanding Neapolitan devotion.

Lunch: Neapolitan pizza

Head to one of the city's legendary pizzerias, such as Sorbillo or Da Michele, to enjoy a Neapolitan pizza made according to local tradition.

Afternoon: Naples Underground and the lungomare

Discover the hidden history of Naples by visiting Naples Underground, a fascinating network of tunnels, catacombs, and aqueducts dating back to the Greco-Roman era. A unique experience that reveals an entirely different side of the city.

Later in the afternoon, make your way to the lungomare, the seafront promenade. Take in the spectacular views over the bay, Vesuvius, and Castel dell'Ovo. Watching the sunset over this enchanting backdrop is an experience you will not forget.

Day 2: Panoramas, culture and history

Morning: Vomero and panoramic views

Take the funicular up to the hilltop neighbourhood of Vomero. Visit Castel Sant'Elmo, a medieval fortress offering a 360° panoramic view over Naples, and the Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery converted into a museum, known for its artworks and peaceful gardens.

Lunch: Traditional Neapolitan cuisine

In the Vomero neighbourhood, take the opportunity to try local dishes at a traditional trattoria, such as pasta alla Genovese or sfogliatelle, the iconic Neapolitan pastries not to be missed.

Afternoon: Piazza del Plebiscito and culture

Head down to Piazza del Plebiscito, surrounded by magnificent buildings including the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Explore the Teatro San Carlo, one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in Europe, before continuing to the National Archaeological Museum. This essential museum houses exceptional collections from

Pompeii and Herculaneum, perfect for deepening your understanding of Roman history.

Option: Day trip to Pompeii

If time allows, replace the museum visit with a trip to Pompeii, around 30 minutes from Naples. Explore this ancient city frozen in time following the eruption of Vesuvius — an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts.

Eating in Naples: a guide to Neapolitan specialities

Naples is a city where gastronomy tells a story rich in tradition and unique flavours. Of course, pizza remains unmissable — from the classic margherita and the flavourful marinara, to the pizza fritta, a generous, crispy fried version often filled with ricotta and cured meats.

For starters and street food, do not miss the frittatine di pasta, small creamy and crispy pasta croquettes, or the famous cuoppo, a paper cone filled with an assortment of fried treats such as squid, vegetables, and rice balls. For heartier dishes, gnocchi alla sorrentina, baked with tomato, mozzarella and basil, or spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) are firm favourites. For a truly authentic Neapolitan experience, try pasta, patate e provola, a comforting mix of pasta, potatoes and smoked cheese.

Do not overlook the polpette al ragù, meatballs slow-cooked in a rich and flavourful tomato sauce, or the gattò di patate, a baked potato dish filled with cured meats and cheese.

To finish on a sweet note, treat yourself to a sfogliatella, a delicate layered pastry filled with ricotta, or a pastiera napoletana, an iconic dessert made with ricotta, wheat and citrus zest. And of course, the famous rum-soaked babà, soft and syrupy, is another sweet not to be missed.

Every bite in Naples is an immersion into an authentic culinary tradition, where simplicity and excellence delight palates from around the world.

Where to stay in Naples

Naples offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles. For an authentic and convenient experience, the historic centre is an excellent choice. This neighbourhood allows you to explore the main sights on foot while staying in small hotels, guesthouses or characterful apartments that often carry a genuine local charm.

If you are looking for a more elegant and peaceful atmosphere, the Chiaia neighbourhood is ideal. With its upscale boutiques, refined restaurants and luxury hotels, it sometimes offers stunning sea views as well.

For those who love panoramic views, the Vomero neighbourhood, perched on the hills above Naples, offers accommodation with spectacular views over the city and the bay. Here you will find hotels and guesthouses in a calm, green setting — perfect for escaping the bustle of the centre.

Finally, for travellers on a tighter budget, hostels and affordable accommodation are available in areas such as Spaccanapoli or around Piazza Garibaldi, near the central train station. While this last area is less picturesque, it remains practical for those looking for affordable, well-connected lodging.

Choosing the right neighbourhood in Naples depends on your priorities — whether proximity to sights, comfort or budget — but each option offers its own unique experience of the city.

Tips for your stay in Naples

In this section, we share some useful tips to help you make the most of your time in Naples. Whether you are an experienced traveller or new to city exploration, these practical insights will help you get around easily and discover the city at its best.

The Naples Metro

The Naples metro is an excellent way to get around the city quickly and easily. Well-served and relatively modern, it helps you avoid traffic and reach key neighbourhoods such as the historic centre, the central train station, and Vomero. A single ticket costs €1.10 and is valid for 90 minutes across the entire network. If you plan to use the metro several times during your stay, a day pass at €4.50 or a weekly pass at €16 may be more economical. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, ticket offices, or via mobile apps. The metro is a practical option, especially if you want to explore Naples in depth without losing time in traffic.

Getting around with a map of Naples

Having a map of Naples is essential for navigating the city. With its narrow alleyways and distinctive neighbourhoods, the city can feel a little disorienting at first, but street signs and tourist maps will help you find your way easily. You can download maps online before you arrive, or pick up a printed one upon arrival.

Renting a car in Naples

If you are considering renting a car in Italy, it is worth knowing that driving in central Naples is not always recommended, due to heavy traffic and limited parking. However, hiring a car can be very convenient for exploring the surrounding area, such as the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, or the volcanic region. Getting from the airport to the city centre by car is also straightforward.

What to do around Naples — day trips and excursions

The area around Naples offers a wealth of compelling destinations for day trips. Here are some highlights not to be missed:

The Amalfi Coast

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast is famous for its picturesque villages perched on cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Iconic towns such as Positano, Amalfi and Ravello draw visitors with their winding lanes, historic churches and breathtaking views. Exploring this region means discovering hidden beaches, scenic hiking trails and outstanding local cuisine.

The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida

These three gems of the Gulf of Naples each offer a distinct experience. Capri is celebrated for its dramatic scenery, upscale boutiques, and the famous Blue Grotto. Ischia, the largest of the three, is known for its thermal springs and lush gardens. Procida, smaller and less crowded, charms visitors with its colourful houses and authentic atmosphere. Boat excursions make it easy to visit all three, offering a unique perspective from the sea.

The town of Sorrento

Perched on a cliff with stunning views over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius, Sorrento is a popular destination known for its lively streets, historic churches and panoramic coastal scenery. It is also the ideal base for exploring the Amalfi Coast and nearby islands. The town is renowned for its production of limoncello, a local lemon liqueur.

The Phlegraean Fields

To the west of Naples, this volcanic area is home to fascinating archaeological sites, volcanic lakes and unique natural landscapes. Places such as Pozzuoli, with its Roman amphitheatre, and Lake Avernus, steeped in myth and legend, are well worth a visit.

The city of Caserta and its Royal Palace

The Reggia di Caserta, often compared to the Palace of Versailles, is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Its vast gardens, majestic fountains and lavish interiors bear witness to the grandeur of the Neapolitan royal court.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, enriching your time in Naples with cultural, natural and historical discoveries.

FAQs

1 — Where can I find the best Neapolitan pizza in Naples?

Naples is home to legendary pizzerias. Among the most celebrated, L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele is widely regarded as an institution, famous for its margherita and marinara pizzas made with simple, authentic ingredients. Sorbillo, located on Via dei Tribunali, is another essential address that draws pizza lovers from around the world. For a more contemporary experience, try 50 Kalò, recognised for its innovative creations.

2 — Which museums are must-visits in Naples?

The National Archaeological Museum is unmissable, housing exceptional collections of ancient artefacts including finds from Pompeii and Herculaneum. The Sansevero Chapel, though small, captivates visitors with its extraordinary Veiled Christ sculpture. Finally, the Certosa di San Martino, combining museum and historic site, offers interesting exhibitions and breathtaking panoramic views over the city.

3 — Are there good day trips from Naples?

Absolutely! Pompeii and Herculaneum, two of the region's most iconic archaeological sites, are easily reachable by train. A hike to the crater of Vesuvius offers sweeping views over the surrounding area. You can also take a ferry to the island of Capri, or explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, with villages such as Positano and Amalfi.

4 — What is the best time of year to visit Naples?

The best time to visit Naples is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for coastal excursions, though the heat can be intense. Winter is quieter and allows for crowd-free sightseeing, with cooler but manageable temperatures.