Naples top 15 things to do
Welcome to Naples, a vibrant and picturesque city where ancient ruins and breathtaking views meet delectable cuisine and vibrant culture. And, to ensure that you don’t miss out on the best of what Naples has to offer, we’ve put together a list of the top 15 things to do for every visitor to this charming city. These top 15 things to do in Naples will have you falling in love with the city in no time, from roaming among ancient ruins to eating the famed Neapolitan pizza, from soaking in beautiful vistas to immersing yourself in the local culture. So pack your bags and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as we discover the finest of what Naples has to offer.
Quick facts about Naples
It has been a long time since we did this trip. The fact that we are writing about it now makes us want to visit this part of Italy again. On the edge of the Bay of Naples, in southern Italy, sits the city of Naples. The third-largest city in Italy, it serves as the regional capital of Campania. The ancient Greeks, Romans, Normans, and Spanish, among other cultures, have had an impact on Naples’ rich and diverse history. The Castel Nuovo, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the Naples National Archaeological Museum are just a few of the city’s famous historical and cultural monuments. It is a city with a thriving cultural environment with a great history of literature, art, and music. The San Carlo Opera House, the Naples National Archaeological Museum, and the Galleria Umberto I are just a few of the city’s cultural landmarks.
Naples is renowned for its delectable food, which is distinguished by the use of seasonal, fresh foods from the area, such tomatoes, olive oil, and seafood. Pasta with seafood, Neapolitan pizza, and the sweet pastry known as sfogliatella are among of the city’s most well-known foods. It is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the island of Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and the Mount Vesuvius volcano, and is situated on the Bay of Naples coast. The city is a fantastic starting point for exploring the region’s natural beauties.
Best time to visit
Naples is best experienced in the spring or fall when the temperature is warm and pleasant. The spring months of April and May are especially pleasant since the climate is warm and bright without being oppressively hot. The fall months of September and October are also great times to travel because the weather is still pleasant and there are often less tourists around.
The summer months of June, July, and August are the ideal times to visit Naples if you love warm, sunny weather. While this is the busiest travel season and there are many festivals and events happening, the city may feel extremely hot and muggy during this time.
The winter months of November to March are a fantastic time to travel to Naples if you want to go there outside of the busy tourist season. Although the weather is colder and occasionally wet, there are fewer tourists and lodging and travel costs are often less expensive.
1.Visit the Pompeii Archaeological Park
The Pompeii Archaeological Park is an ancient Roman city that was buried under ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The city was preserved perfectly, and today it is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
With 20,000 inhabitants in the first century AD, Pompeii was a prosperous Roman city. The city was buried in ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD; it was situated close to its base. Until it was found in the 18th century, the city was lost to history.
Visitors may view a multitude of structures and artifacts that have survived unaltered for more than 2,000 years at the remarkably well-preserved Pompeii ruins. These consist of homes, public structures, and streets in addition to a variety of artifacts including pottery, jewelry, and everyday items. They provide a special window into ancient Romans’ daily lives. Visitors may learn about their habits, beliefs, and way of life while also getting a glimpse into how they worked, played, and lived.
The Campania area of southern Italy is where the Pompeii Archaeological Park is situated. It is conveniently reachable by auto or public transit and is located around 20 miles southeast of Naples.
Since it is a large site, it is recommended to allow at least half a day to visit.
Tickets
You may purchase tickets for the Pompeii Archaeological Park online or at the ticket office the day of your visit. The type of ticket you select will affect the price. For instance, a full-price adult ticket is €15, but a junior or student ticket is only €7.50. Reduced-price tickets are available for those who are under 18 years old and EU nationals who are under 25.
Opening Hours
Except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the Pompeii Archaeological Park is open every day. In the summer (April to October), the park is open from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM; in the winter (December to March), it is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (November to March). In March and November, which are the off-season months, the park is open until 6:00 PM.
2.Explore the Royal Palace of Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples is a stunning Baroque palace located in the center of Naples, Italy.
As the King of the Two Sicilies’ home, it was constructed. It was created by Ferdinando Fuga, a talented architect, and is a stunning example of Baroque design. The National Gallery of Naples, which displays a collection of works from the 13th to the 19th centuries, is one of the institutions that call it home. The National Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of ancient relics from all over the world, and the Museum of the Royal Apartments, which showcases a variety of royal items and furniture, are both located inside the palace.
It is close to the Piazza del Plebiscito and the Castel Nuovo. It is a well-liked tourist destination and is readily reached by public transportation.
It provides open-to-the-public tours of the museums and royal residences. It is advised to allocate at least half a day for your visit because it is a sizable and spectacular edifice.
Tickets
You can purchase admission to the Royal Palace of Naples over the internet or in person on the day of your visit. Depending on the type of ticket you select, prices change. For instance, an adult ticket at full price costs €8, whereas a child or student ticket at discounted pricing costs €4. Reduced-price tickets are available to those under 25 who are EU nationals as well as children under the age of 18.
The old city of Naples, which dates to the Greek and Roman eras, is included in the historic center of Naples, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its active street life, colorful architecture, and rich cultural and historical legacy.
Among the most significant sites and landmarks in Naples’ old town are:
– Castel Nuovo: A medieval castle that was built in the 14th century and now houses a museum.
– Church of San Domenico Maggiore: A 14th-century Gothic church with a beautiful cloister and a museum.
– The major cathedral of Naples, the Duomo di Napoli, was constructed in the 13th century and combines Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural elements.
– Piazza del Gesù: A picturesque square with a number of historic churches and buildings, including the Gesù Nuovo church and the Palazzo dello Spagnuolo.
– Spaccanapoli: A narrow, bustling street that runs through the heart of the historic center and is known for its street vendors and artisanal shops.
– San Gregorio Armeno: A street known for its Christmas nativity scene shops and artisanal workshops.
– Castel Sant’Elmo: A medieval castle with a museum and panoramic views of the city.
– Naples National Archaeological Museum: A museum that houses a collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including Pompeii and Herculaneum exhibits.
Opening Hours
With the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Royal Palace of Naples is open every day. In the summer (April to October), the palace is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and in the winter (December to March), it is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (November to March). In the off-season months of March and November, the palace is open until 6:00 PM.
3.Visit the Castel Nuovo
Also called the Maschio Angioino, this castle is situated in the heart of Naples. It is home to a variety of museums, notably the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro and the Museum of the City of Naples, and was constructed in the 13th century as a royal palace by King Charles I of Anjou. It was built in the Gothic architectural style and has served as a jail, a royal residence, and a military stronghold over the years.
In the heart of Naples, close to the Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace of Naples, is where you’ll find it.
Tickets
You may purchase tickets for the Castel Nuovo online or at the ticket office the day of your visit. Depending on the type of ticket you select, prices change. For instance, an adult ticket at full price costs €7, whereas a child or student ticket at discounted price costs €3.50. Reduced-price tickets are available to those under 25 who are EU nationals as well as children under the age of 18.
Opening Hours
All days save Christmas and New Year’s Day are open at the Castel Nuovo. The castle is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM from April to October, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from November to March (November to March). In the off-season months of March and November, the castle is open until 6:00 PM.
4.Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum
A collection of historic objects from all over the world, including Greek and Roman sculptures, frescoes, and mosaics, are housed at one of Italy’s most significant museums. It was established in the 18th century and has since developed into one of Italy’s biggest and most significant museums. One of the greatest surviving collections of ancient Roman mosaics in the world can be found in this museum, which is why it is so well-known. It is situated in the heart of Naples, close to the Castel Nuovo and the Royal Palace of Naples.
Tickets
You can pay admission to the Naples National Archaeological Museum online or in person on the day of your visit to the ticket office. The type of ticket you select will affect the price. For instance, a full-price adult ticket is €10, but a junior or student ticket is only €5. Reduced-price tickets are available for those who are under 18 years old and EU nationals who are under 25.
Opening Hours
On all days other than Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Naples National Archaeological Museum is open. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM from April to October, and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from November to March (November to March). In March and November, which are off months, the museum is open until 6:00 PM.
5.Visit the Galleria Umberto I
In the heart of Naples, there is a public retail gallery called Galleria Umberto I. It bears the name of Italy’s King Umberto I, who ruled from 1878 to 1900. The galleria is a well-liked tourist site that dates back to the late 19th century. It is renowned for its outstanding architecture and advantageous placement in the middle of the city. The galleria is a several-block-long covered, glass-roofed arcade that is surrounded by stores, eateries, and cafés. It is regarded as a significant cultural and historical monument in Naples and is a well-liked destination for both locals and visitors to buy, dine, and socialize.
Opening Hours
The opening hours of Galleria Umberto I may vary depending on the specific shops and businesses located within the arcade. Some shops and restaurants may have different hours of operation, so it is best to check with individual establishments for their specific opening hours.
As for tickets, there is typically no admission fee to enter the galleria itself. It is a public shopping arcade that is open to the general public, and visitors are free to walk through the arcade and visit the various shops and restaurants at their leisure. However, some of the individual businesses within the galleria may charge admission fees for certain events or attractions, such as a museum or an exhibition. In these cases, you would need to purchase a ticket in order to access these specific areas.
6.Enjoy the view from the top of Mount Vesuvius
The Italian city of Naples is home to Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano. The ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum were obliterated by an eruption in 79 AD, which is primarily remembered for that event.
Here are some considerations if you intend to visit Mount Vesuvius:
– You can reach the volcano by car, bus, or taxi from Naples. There is a parking area at the base of the mountain, from where you can take a shuttle bus or walk up to the summit.
– The hike to the summit of Mount Vesuvius takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked and not too steep, but it can be slippery and uneven in some places. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity.
– The summit of Mount Vesuvius offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Bay of Naples and the island of Capri. You can also see the crater of the volcano, which is about 300 meters wide and 80 meters deep.
– It is important to protect yourself from the sun and the wind at the summit, as the weather can be quite changeable. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.
– At the peak, there is a modest tourist center with a café and facilities. The business also sells souvenirs and other goods.
– Before traveling, it’s a good idea to look on the volcano’s state and the weather forecast. The summit may occasionally be blocked because to bad weather or volcanic activity.
7.Explore the historic center of Naples
The old city of Naples, which dates to the Greek and Roman eras, is included in the historic center of Naples, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its active street life, colorful architecture, and rich cultural and historical legacy.
Among the most significant sites and landmarks in Naples’ old town are:
– Castel Nuovo: A medieval castle that was built in the 14th century and now houses a museum.
– Church of San Domenico Maggiore: A 14th-century Gothic church with a beautiful cloister and a museum.
– The major cathedral of Naples, the Duomo di Napoli, was constructed in the 13th century and combines Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural elements.
– Piazza del Gesù: A picturesque square with a number of historic churches and buildings, including the Gesù Nuovo church and the Palazzo dello Spagnuolo.
– Spaccanapoli: A narrow, bustling street that runs through the heart of the historic center and is known for its street vendors and artisanal shops.
– San Gregorio Armeno: A street known for its Christmas nativity scene shops and artisanal workshops.
– Castel Sant’Elmo: A medieval castle with a museum and panoramic views of the city.
– Naples National Archaeological Museum: A museum that houses a collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, including Pompeii and Herculaneum exhibits.
8.Visit the Certosa di San Martino
Naples is home to the Certosa di San Martino, an ancient Carthusian monastery. It is now a museum and cultural hub and is regarded as one of the most significant landmarks in the city.
The Carthusian order, which was renowned for its rigid monastic lifestyle and commitment to reflection and seclusion, constructed the monastery in the 14th century. The monastery was constructed on a hilltop with a view of the city, and it combines Gothic and Baroque features in its architecture.
Beautiful gardens and terraces of the Certosa di San Martino provide sweeping views of the city. The monastery also houses several significant pieces of art, including frescoes by Renaissance painters like Giovanni Bellini. The Certosa di San Martino is a well-known tourist destination in Naples nowadays that is accessible to the general public. Concerts, exhibits, and cultural activities are also held there.
Tickets
You must buy a ticket if you want to go to the Certosa di San Martino. Depending on the tour type you select and whether you’re an adult, senior, or student, the cost of the ticket changes. Generally, admission for minors under 18 is free.
Opening Hours
Except for select holidays, the Certosa di San Martino is accessible to the general public every day. Depending on the season and the day of the week, the precise opening hours may change. It typically has extended hours on some days, running from early in the morning to late in the afternoon. For the most recent information on admission costs and hours of operation, it is advised to check the museum’s official website or to get in touch with them directly.
9.Visit Duomo Di Napoli
A Roman Catholic cathedral in the Italian city of Naples is called the Duomo di Napoli, or the Cathedral of Naples. It serves as the archbishop of Naples’ residence and is devoted to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. One of Naples’ most significant religious structures and a well-liked tourist destination is the cathedral.
The Duomo di Napoli is situated next to the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo in the city’s old district. It was constructed in the Gothic style in the 13th century, and over the years, it has undergone several extensions and modifications. The cathedral is renowned for its stunning front, which includes stained glass windows and sculpted stone ornamentation.
Inside the Duomo di Napoli, visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures that adorn the walls and chapels. The cathedral also contains a number of important artworks, including the tomb of Saint Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, and a collection of precious jewels and relics.
The Duomo di Napoli is a significant cultural and social center in the city in addition to its importance in religion and the arts. It holds a wide range of occasions, such as musical performances, art exhibits, and religious rituals.
Opening Hours
On all days besides few holidays, the public may visit the Duomo di Napoli, or Cathedral of Naples. According to the season and day of the week, the precise opening hours may change. With extended hours on certain days, it typically operates from early in the morning until late in the afternoon. For the most recent information on opening hours, it is suggested that you visit the cathedral’s official website or give them a call.
Tickets
A ticket must be purchased in order to enter the Duomo di Napoli. Depending on the tour type you select and whether you’re a senior, a student, or an adult, the cost of the ticket varies. Typically, admission is free for those under 18 years old. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the cathedral’s entry ticket office or online through the official website.
For special exhibitions or events taking place at the Duomo di Napoli, there could be extra costs in addition to the standard entry price.
10. Stroll along Spaccanapoli
In Naples, Italy’s historic district, a street called Spaccanapoli is well-known for its lively atmosphere and extensive cultural heritage. As the street is said to have been the primary route that separated the city in the past, the name “Spaccanapoli” literally translates to “Naples splitter.”
The medieval neighborhoods of San Gregorio Armeno and Santa Chiara are connected by the city’s main thoroughfare, Spaccanapoli. Due to the presence of several significant structures, like as cathedrals, palaces, and museums, it is a well-liked destination for both visitors and residents.
One of the most famous landmarks on Spaccanapoli is the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore, a 13th-century Gothic church that is considered one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Naples. The street is also home to the Church of Santa Chiara, which is known for its beautiful cloister and frescoes, and the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts.
The lively ambiance and active street life of Spaccanapoli are also well known. The street is a favorite place for people-watching, dining, and shopping because it is lined with stores, eateries, and cafés. It is a must-see location for anybody visiting Naples since it is a vital component of the city’s history and culture.
11. Walk down San Gregorio Armeno
San Gregorio Armeno is a street known for its artisan workshops and stores that specialize in the production and sale of traditional Neapolitan nativity scene. These nativity scenes, which depict the birth of Jesus in the manger, are an important part of Neapolitan Christmas traditions and are popular both in Naples and around the world.
The street is named after Saint Gregory of Narek, an Armenian monk and poet who is considered a national hero in Armenia and is venerated as a saint in the Armenian Apostolic Church.
The stores on San Gregorio Armeno also sell other typical Neapolitan products including jewelry, pottery, and Christmas decorations in addition to nativity scenes. The street is a well-liked tourist attraction in Naples, especially during Christmas time when it is crowded with people shopping for gifts and tourists.
12. Go up to Castel Sant'Elmo
On a hill in the Vomero district sits the medieval fortress known as Castel Sant’Elmo. The castle, a well-known municipal icon, provides expansive views over the bay of Naples and the surrounding area. Since we wanted to see Naples’s neighborhoods, we made the decision to walk to the castle. It was a wise decision, you could say.
The walking time may vary depending on your pace and the path you select as you travel from Naples’ downtown to Castel Sant’Elmo, which is roughly 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) away.
Depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the sights along the route, the distance if you are walking from the city center should take between 45 and an hour. To get to the castle, you may travel a combination of streets and pathways; doing so will pass through some of the city’s most fascinating districts.
It is worth noting that the walk to Castel Sant’Elmo involves some uphill sections and may be challenging for some people. If you prefer, you can also take public transportation or a taxi to reach the castle. There are several bus lines that serve the area, or you can take the funicular railway from the center of the city to the Vomero district, which is located just below the castle.
In order to defend the city from invasion, the castle was constructed in the 14th century. It features multiple towers, high walls, and a star-shaped architecture. The castle has undergone several modifications and performed a number of functions throughout the years, including as a jail, a military barracks, and a cultural hub.
A well-liked tourist destination in Naples today, Castel Sant’Elmo is home to a number of museums, including the Museo Nazionale di San Martino, which is devoted to Naples’ history, and the Museo d’Arte Contemporanea, which exhibits modern and contemporary art. The castle also holds concerts, exhibits, and cultural events all year round.
Castel Sant’Elmo is renowned for its spectacular location, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area, in addition to its cultural and historical value. Both tourists and locals use the location frequently, particularly around sunset when the scenery is most breathtaking.
Opening Hours
The castle is typically accessible to visitors every day from Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the final entrance at 6:00 PM. Mondays and several holidays are when it is closed.
Tickets
The Museo Nazionale di San Martino, which is housed inside the castle, has an entry price of €8.00 for adults and €4.00 for kids, students, and elderly people. Residents of Naples and visitors who buy a combo ticket that grants entry to other city cultural attractions pay a discounted rate of €6.00.
The Museo d’Arte Contemporanea, which is also housed inside the castle, has a €5.00 adult entrance cost and a €3.00 fee for children, students, and elderly people. For tourists who buy a combination ticket that grants them admission to other cultural attractions in the city as well as Naples residents, there is a discounted rate of €4.00.
13. Go to Piazza del Gesù
Piazza del Gesù is a public square located in the historic center of Naples. The Church of Gesù Nuovo, a significant municipal landmark, is where the piazza gets its name. It is situated on one side of the plaza.
Built in the 15th century, the Church of Gesù Nuovo is a church in the Baroque style. It is renowned for both its elaborate interior, which has paintings and marble altars, and its magnificent exterior, which is embellished with sculptures and reliefs.
A number of other significant structures may be found in Piazza del Gesù, such as the Palazzo San Giovanni a Carbonara, a medieval palace that currently serves as a museum, and the Palazzo della Borsa, the location of the Naples stock market.
Both visitors and residents enjoy visiting the plaza, which serves as the center of the city’s social and cultural life. It is a well-liked location for outdoor concerts and other events and is flanked by a variety of cafés, restaurants, and stores.
14. Stop by Church of San Domenico Maggiore
In Naples’ old town, there is a Roman Catholic church called the Church of San Domenico Maggiore. It is a significant landmark in the city and esteemed for its value in both architecture and the arts.
The church was constructed in the thirteenth century, and over the years, it has undergone several modifications and additions. With its pointed arches, lofty vaults, and sizable rose window, it is an illustration of Gothic architecture. The church’s interior is lavishly adorned with sculptures, frescoes, and other pieces of art.
One of the most notable features of the Church of San Domenico Maggiore is its cloister, which is a serene and peaceful space surrounded by arcades and columns. The cloister is home to a number of important tombs and frescoes, including the tomb of King Robert of Anjou and the frescoes of the “Triumph of Death,” which depict the horrors of the plague that swept through the city in the 14th century.
The chapel is accessible to everyone and is a well-liked hangout for both visitors and locals. Additionally, it serves as a significant location for religious rituals and activities, and it frequently serves as a music venue.
15. Stop by Piazza del Plebiscito
In the heart of Naples, there is a sizable public area called Piazza del Plebiscito. One of the most significant landmarks in the city, it serves as a center for social and cultural activities.
The San Francesco di Paola Basilica, a Neoclassical-style church with a great colonnade and a huge dome, and the Royal Palace, which served as the residence of the Bourbon monarchs of Naples and is now a museum, surround the square.
The piazza is also home to the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, which is a statue of the first king of a united Italy, and the Monument to the Parthenopean Republic, which is a memorial to the brief period of republican government that existed in Naples in 1799.
Tips about your trip
– Use caution in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings. Like many large cities, Naples can have pockets of crime, and tourists can be targeted by pickpockets and other thieves.
– Be prepared for traffic and crowds. Naples is a bustling city with a high population density, and the streets can be crowded and chaotic.
– Be ready for some hills and put on some comfy sneakers. Due to the city of Naples’ high geography, some of its streets can be quite steep. It will be simpler to navigate the city on foot if you are wearing comfy shoes.
– Check out the local food. There are several top-notch restaurants and pizzerias to select from in Naples, which is well-known for its delectable cuisine. Pizza, pasta alla Genovese, and babà are just a few of the typical Neapolitan cuisine you should eat.
– Stay hydrated. The climate in Naples can be hot and humid in the summer months, and it is important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration.
– Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun. The sun in Naples can be strong, especially in the summer months, and it is important to use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun to avoid sunburn and other skin damage.
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