Things To Do
in Naples
Naples is a coastal city perched on the Tyrrhenian Sea, where centuries of history unfold through winding streets and grand palazzi. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with baroque churches, bustling markets, and echoes of ancient Rome. The city is famous as the birthplace of pizza, with iconic pizzerias alongside vibrant trattorie and seafood taverns.
From sunset views at Castel dell'Ovo to the lively spirit of Spaccanapoli, Naples blends gritty charm with extraordinary culinary talent.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Piazza del Plebiscito, where you can admire the grand Royal Palace and the beautiful Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. After soaking in the historical atmosphere, wander through the narrow streets of Spaccanapoli, where the essence of Naples can be felt in every corner. Don’t forget to stop by the famous Gran Caffè Gambrinus for a traditional Neapolitan espresso and sfogliatella pastry.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the rich history of Naples by visiting the Naples Cathedral, home to the revered blood relic of San Gennaro. Next, stroll through the vibrant streets of the Quartieri Spagnoli, where local artisans create unique crafts and delicious street food awaits at every turn. Enjoy a light lunch of pizza margherita at the legendary Pizzeria da Michele, famed for its authentic flavors.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Lungomare, taking in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Treat yourself to a seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh local catches paired with a glass of regional wine. End your evening with a visit to the Teatro di San Carlo, where you can catch a performance or simply admire the opulent architecture.
Begin your day with an early train ride to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where you can explore the remarkably preserved streets and buildings that tell the story of life before the catastrophic eruption. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and daily life of the Pompeians, including the impressive amphitheater and the beautiful frescoes in the villas. Be sure to take lots of photos as you walk through the Forum and see the haunting casts of those who perished.
After your visit to Pompeii, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby trattoria, sampling local specialties like pasta alla genovese or a hearty ragu. Once refueled, embark on a hike up Mount Vesuvius, where the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples await you at the summit. As you walk along the volcanic trail, learn about the geology of this iconic volcano and its impact on the surrounding region.
Return to Naples for a relaxed evening in the vibrant Chiaia district, known for its chic boutiques and lively atmosphere. Dine at a cozy restaurant and indulge in typical Neapolitan dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole or melanzane alla parmigiana. Cap off your day with a gelato from a local shop, savoring the sweet flavors as you stroll through the charming streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $1.50-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $8-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-renowned pizza and cuisine
- Rich history and architecture
- Gateway to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the islands
- Crowded in peak seasons and around major sights
- Street crime such as pickpocketing in tourist areas
- Traffic can be heavy and navigating hilly streets challenging
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Vorrei questo" - I would like this
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Naples
Visit one of these nice places.
A medieval sea fortress with sweeping views over the bay and Vesuvian volcano in the distance.
The historic street that slices through old Naples—perfect for candid street photography and colorful doors.
Grand square framed by the Basilica and the massive Royal Palace, ideal for sunset shots.
Glass-domed arcade with dramatic light, mosaics, and reflections.
Iconic seafront views with Castel Nuovo and the busy waterfront as a backdrop.
Food in Naples
Naples Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic, blistered crust and simple toppings of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
Must-Try!
Pasta with clams, olive oil, garlic, and a hint of chili.
Crispy, multi-layered pastry filled with sweet ricotta or cream.
Creamy buffalo mozzarella with tomatoes and fresh basil, a perfect starter or light lunch.
A cone of assorted fried seafood and vegetables—great as street food.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic fish market and street-food stalls close to the historic center.
Historic street market near Via Toledo offering fresh produce and quick bites.
Vibrant market for clothes, produce, and casual, affordable bites.
Historic cafe-pastry shop known for classic Neapolitan sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Buonasera; use polite language in shops and restaurants and avoid loud behavior in churches.
Dress modestly, speak softly, and follow local rules about photography in religious sites.
Show respect for local customs, queue patiently, and enjoy meals seated rather than eating on the move in most areas.
Safety
Tipping in Naples
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, a 5-10% tip for good service is appreciated in restaurants and cafes. Small tips are common at bars or cafes that aren’t full-service.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards and contactless payments are common in most establishments; keep some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures around 15-22°C; blooming gardens and comfortable conditions for walking tours.
Hot and humid, with sea breezes; expect crowds at major sights and beaches.
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; still very pleasant for outdoor exploration.
Cool but generally mild (8-15°C); rain is possible and crowds ease in the urban areas.
Naples at Night
Hiking in Naples
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular crater hike with dramatic views over Naples and the bay.
Spectacular coastal hike with terraces and sea views (starts near Bomerano).
Airports
How to reach Naples by plane.
Main gateway to Naples; connects to major European cities; served by the Alibus shuttle and taxis to the city center.
Large international hub about 2-3 hours away by high-speed train or car; convenient for long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse age groups, strong family culture, and vibrant street life.
Year-round visitors from Europe and beyond, attracted by history and cuisine.
University presence and creative industries contribute to the city’s energy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the region’s dominant sport; SSC Napoli is a major local pride.
Other popular activities with local clubs and seaside opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naples.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pastas, vegetables, cheeses, and pizzas (prefer Margherita or funghi) are naturally vegetarian; ask for no meat or anchovies, and look for ‘vegetariano’ options in menus.