Sandwiched between the blue waters of the Mediterranean and the looming backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is a city with a lot of character and life.
From natural wonders to cultural attractions to foodie experiences, this Naples travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
So, if you are hoping to be amazed, dive into the past, or stuff your face with some delicious food, why not start in Naples, where you’re sure to have an amazing time no matter what!
Exploring Naples’ Nature
Here are some of the most memorable things to see and do to help you make the most of the city.
1. Visit the Bay of Naples
The Bay of Naples offers some of the world’s most visual aesthetics. Blue water stretches towards the city, with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
The area is ideal for walking or boating during a lazy, sunny afternoon, and the sunsets are incredible!
Best Time to Go: the best time to go is early in the morning or late in the afternoon — avoid the midday heat for the best pictures and a quieter time.
How to Get There: To get there, just hop on a local bus or take a taxi from the town. Pretty much all transport goes towards the coast.
Safety Tips: Pack sunblock and be mindful of you who surrounds you, especially near the water at night.
2. Climb Mount Vesuvius
Ever dreamed of hiking to the summit of a volcano? You can do just that on Vesuvius! Climbing to the crater will remind you of the incredible history you’re standing on.
It’s a little adrenaline, a bit of views, and a touch of geology for adventure.
Best Time to Go: April or October are cooler and less crowded than the summer months or holidays.
How to Get There: Take a train to Ercolano or Pompeii and a shuttle from there to the trailhead.
Wear sturdy boots, bring lots of water. Weather can change, so layer up and be careful on the trail.
3. Stroll through the Naples Botanical Garden
Enjoy a little peace and tranquility away from the city at the Botanical Gardens. There is a wide variety of plants from all over the globe, and the green environment is very relaxing.
It’s perfect for any outdoor or plant enthusiast and a great place to spend a relaxing hour or two.
Best Time to Go: Spring, the time when plants and flowers are at their brightest and most colorful.
How to Get There: Located a short walk or a quick taxi from the city center is this verdant retreat.
Safety Tips: Stick to the trails and take your time–don’t rush exploring this secluded paradise.
4. Relax at the Posillipo Hill
For one of the best panoramic views of the city and the sea, head to Posillipo Hill where you can snap cool photos or have a picnic.
It’s a quiet escape from the busy activity in the city, a chance to hit pause and appreciate the beauty of the world.
Best Time to Go: Late afternoon is when the city is transformed into golden colors and makes for beautiful pictures.
How to Get There: Bus shuttle, taxi or private transportation from the city will navigate to the entrance of the park.
Safety Tips: Be extra careful hiking the hillside trails. They can be very steep, but the best views willbe from the clearly marked trails.
5. Explore the Gaiola Underwater Park
Explore the wonders of the underwater world at the Gaiola Underwater Park. This marine reserve is filled with sunken ruins and abundant marine life, perfect for a snorkeling or diving adventure.
Naples will surprise you yet again, but this time it’s under the water.
Best Time to Go: The warmest water and best visibility occur in the summer.
How to Get There: A short taxi or bus ride out of town takes you to this spectacular coast.
Safety Tips: Be sure to pack the right gear and ideally a guide. Never swim alone.
Dive into Naples’ Culture
While the natural beauty of Naples is stunning, I found the cultural charms to be just as captivating.
6. Tour the Naples National Archaeological Museum
This museum is one recreational space that was built in 2011. It’s jam-packed with Roman objects and ruins from Pompeii, giving you an exciting glimpse into the past.
You get to actually walk through history here as you view some of the most famous sculptures and mosaics in the world.
How to Get There: Situated right in the middle of Naples, it’s easy to get to by metro. Just get off at the Museo stop and it’s a short walk, or take a taxi from anywhere in town.
Precautions: While you’re at it, mind your museum manners, too—don’t touch the exhibitions and make sure to keep a close eye on your bags.
7. Visit Castel dell’ Ovo
Sitting right on the water, this is Naples’ oldest fortress and not to be missed if you love history. Wandering the weathered ramparts and gazing out at the bay and city is an experience you won’t forget.
Be sure to also check out the historical display, histories from the past are described.
How to Get There: It sits on the island of Megaride, a nice distance from the center. You can either walk along the picturesque waterfront promenade, the , or take a bus.
Precautions: The interior castle walkways are not level, so be careful. Take photos, but heed the dangers around you as well.
8. Explore the historic center (Centro Storico)
The Centro Storico makes you feel like you’re in another time, with its labyrinth of cobblestone alleyways, baroque churches, and small, intimate squares. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s every bit as historic and charming as you would expect.
How to Get There: It’s not far from anywhere (an easy walk from the main piazzas, or jump on a local bus for quick access).
Precautions: The streets are narrow and busy so be prepared to pay attention and avoid big groups. And for those cobblestones, wear some comfortable walking shoes!
9. Admire street art in the Quartieri Spagnoli
The hip Quartieri Spagnoli brings a touch of modernity to Naples’ historic ambiance. From vibrant murals to modern street art, this area shows the contemporary side of the city.
Take a selfie or two or just explore the street art scene here.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get there is by walking or by jumping on a nearby metro. From the city center, it’s an easy stroll. After that, you just follow the streets
Precautions: The neighborhood is busy, so just keep your wits about you and stick to well- lit, crowded streets.
10. Discover the Sansevero Chapel Museum
You have to visit this chapel to see the Veiled Christ–a truly incredible work of art. Besides that, the ceilings and other art are beautiful and it’s a lovely spot to visit.
How to Get There: To reach the historic center, head to the historic center. You can only find it on foot, simply follow the signs from the nearby tourist attractions and locals.
Precautions: Museum capacity is limited, so you may want to buy tickets ahead of time. Just be respectful and keep your voice down.
Taste Local Food
After you’ve seen the cultural side of Naples, it’s time to taste the city’s scrumptious cuisine, where taste meets tradition.
11. Try Authentic Neapolitan Pizza at Da Michele or Sorbillo
Neapolitan pizza is known the world over. If you’re on a pilgrimage to test out the best, you must try it in Naples. Whether it’s at Da Michele or Sorbillo, you’ll get to eat the classic pizza margherita.
This is the place where pizzas were invented. It’s one of the places you should eat a slice.
How to Get There: Both pizzerias are in the historic center, within easy walking distance of Piazza del Plebiscito. Take Via dei Tribunali and you’ll eventually run into pizza nirvana.
Precautions: These places get crowded. Expect lines, especially at peak meal times. Use common sense and aim to visit off-peak for a faster line and less-hectic experience.
12. Sample Sfogliatella Pastry at a Local Pasticceria
Sfogliatella is a shell-shaped, flaky dough pastry and is one of Naples’ iconic treats.
It’s filled with sweet ricotta and a little bit of citrus, so there’s a nice contrast in textures and flavors.Enjoy it with your morning cappuccino or have it as a sweet mid-day snack. It’s a must-try for pastry enthusiasts.
How to Get There: Get the above pastries at a pasticceria like Pintauro (Via Toledo) which has fresh ones. Centrally located, it offers an opportunity for a quick stop
Precautions: Eat sfogliatelle fresh. My advice is simple: take on a pasticceria early that day! And enjoy…the crumbs. Boy, do these things flake!
13. Visit Naples’ Historic Street Markets (Pignasecca Market)
Feel the energy of the street at Pignasecca Market, a lively and fragrant market packed with fresh food and street food stalls.
It’s a thrilling place to wander around, from stalls selling local produce–fresh cherries, of course, but also Neapolitan cheeses and seafood–to vendors frying, grilling, and cooking up some tasty treats.
It’s a great place to get a sense of what daily life in Naples is like and eat some delicious food.
How to Get There: Found in the Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood, easy to reach on foot from the Montesanto metro stop. Wander through the surrounding streets and you’ll eventually run into the market.
Precautions: Markets can get crowded, so watch your belongings and your wallet.
14. Savor Seafood Dishes Along the Waterfront
Naples’ location on the sea guarantees you’ll get a lot of fresh fish when you dine out on the waterfront. You’ll eat traditional Mediterranean cuisine where the ingredient is the star and everything else is secondary.
Grilled, fried, or even served with pasta, the seafood can’t be missed when you’re visiting Naples.
How to Get There: The Lungomare promenade in Naples is lined with sea food restaurants. Strolling Via Partenope is a relaxing way to experience it, with the added room.
Precautions: If you’re not there when it’s in season, always make sure to check the seafood for freshness. Go to places that have a lot of customers. A hat and sunscreen are good if you’re eating outside for lunch at a hotel.
15. Drink Espresso Like a Local at a Traditional Café
In Naples, coffee is not just coffee; it’s pride, tradition and pleasure all in one.
Drink a few cups and become a true Neapolitan. Drink it at the bar and you’ll find that Neapolitan coffee has its own unique heartbeat.
How to Get There: There are cafés everywhere, but Gran Caffè Gambrinus near Piazza del Plebiscito is the ultimate spot.
Precautions: Don’t forget: espresso in Naples is meant to be drunk standing at the bar, not at a table.
Experience Local Humanities
After you eat your way through Naples’ cuisine, you’ll want to get an understanding of the local humanities.
16. Attend a Traditional Neapolitan Music Performance (Canzone Napoletana)
If you really want to understand Naples, you need to listen to its music. Canzone Napoletana isn’t just music — it’s a feeling.
They’re incredibly emotional and share stories of the city and its people and history. If you get a chance to hear the music performed, it’s an amazing opportunity to really get to know and understand Naples and its people.
Best Time to Participate: You can also catch a show at night — once the city quiets down, the music heats up.
Precautions: Just make sure to double check the address beforehand, as many are located off side streets and are easy to miss. And, if you can buy your tickets in advance, you’ll skip any potential lines at the door.
17. Visit the Lively Piazza del Plebiscito
This square is the lively center of Naples. Locals gather here for all sorts of events, and it’s an excellent place to experience the spirited vitality of the city.
Full of history and life, this historic square is a great place to sit on a bench, people-watch, or have a cup of coffee.
Best Time to Participate: During the day to admire the building, or during an event for an unforgettable experience.
Precautions: The square gets crowded and is a haven for pickpockets. Expect the place to be busy, especially during events and on concert nights.
18. Explore the Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea)
Discover the secret world underneath the city streets where old and new collide. Napoli Sotterranea offers tours of the underground tunnels and caverns that make up the city of Naples.
It’s a cool way to learn about the history of the city (for example, there are Roman structures under Naples as well as WWII air raid shelters).
Best Time to Participate: Any time, but tours are cooler and spookier off-peak (for an extra scary experience)!
Some streets are narrow and may feel damp; wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket.
19. Participate in the Feast of San Gennaro
September is the month that Naples celebrates San Genarro, its patron saint. This is as it’s a fun event featuring parades, fireworks, and lots of traditional foods.
Don’t miss this chance to experience a local festival, watch processions go by, and participate in a giant group celebration.
Best Time to Participate: Save the date of September 19th–which is the big day–though festivities take place over several days.
Precautions: The place gets packed with some rather rowdy crowds to celebrate, so keep a close eye on your gear. Be ready for the racket—drink too help block out the noise if you are a light sleeper.
20. Walk Through the Vibrant Spaccanapoli Street
Spaccanapoli is one of the liveliest, most vibrant streets in the historic neighborhood, and the walk isn’t to be missed, as it showcases everyday Naples.
Locals roam through the action-packed scene as they shop, dine, and stroll along the street in a never-ending parade of life.
The smells of a thousand different street foods waft through the air, while the noise of traffic, chatter, and laughter fills the streets.
It's a chaotic yet magical, seductive city where the pace of life never slows.
Best Time to Participate: The best time is late morning to early afternoon when shops and markets are open.
Precautions: It can get crowded, though, so be vigilant of your things and your surroundings. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Tips for Visitors
Consider the Napoli Artecard. If you intend to visit a number of attractions while in the city, grab a Napoli Artecard. It will get you discounted admission to a wide variety of museums and attractions throughout Naples. Be sure to look into the card’s duration to use it to its fullest extent.
Dress Comfortable. Given that many of Naples’ streets are cobblestoned, comfortable shoes are essential. The weather can change suddenly, too, so it’s best to dress in layers.
Stay Alert in Busy Areas. Naples is a wonderful city though, as always, keep a close eye on your belongings in and around busy locations. It’s a good idea to have your passport photocopied too, and be sure to store the real copy somewhere safe.
Respect Local Customs. Naples is a traditional and cultural city, so respect local norms. Tourists should wear modest clothing in places of worship and follow church dress codes.
Capture Moments with Care. Naples has tons of photo ops so make sure to always have your camera on you. Be respectful when taking pictures of locals and ask for permission if you have to. Just be cautious when snapshotting near water or in busy streets.
FAQ
1. What is the best time to visit Naples?
You can visit at any time of year, warm weather, but fewer tourists in the spring or fall.
2. Is it safe to travel to Naples?
Naples is mostly safe, but take the usual precautions with your valuables, particularly in busy areas. Opt for a money belt or crossbody bag, and steer clear of dark alleys at night.
3. What is the dress code in Naples?
Casual clothing is acceptable, although smart-casual is common among the locals. If you are visiting a church, monastery, or other religious site, dress modestly. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
4. Can I drink tap water in Naples?
Yes, you can drink the tap water in Naples. Most of the locals drink bottled water, but it’s possible to fill a reusable bottle instead!
5. What precautions should I take in Naples?
When in crowded areas, be cautious about pickpockets, and be aware of your surroundings. Safety in numbers is a fallacy.
Conclusion
Naples is a city that is alive. A city with soul. A city that provides a glimpse into the very heart of Italian life and culture: strong, bold, passionate, and intense.
So take an open heart and an inquisitive mind to Naples.
The lively personality of the city begs to be enjoyed exuberantly, and you’ll be rewarded with memories that seem more like a stack of treasured moments than a list of sights to see.
Naples is here, arms wide open, waiting for you to eagerly explore and discover its wonders.