Visiting Naples: What to See and Do?
Planning a trip to Naples? You won't be bored for a moment! On the agenda: discovering the city's most beautiful historical and architectural monuments in the downtown area
Planning a stay in Naples? You won't be bored for a moment! On the agenda: discovering the city's most beautiful historical and architectural monuments in the downtown area, tasting local cuisine, excursions to Pompeii, climbing the volcano and boat tours to nearby islands… We'll list everything you must see and do in Naples and its surroundings.
What to Do and See in Downtown Naples?
The city of Naples itself is brimming with treasures to discover. Between charming alleyways, palaces, castles, museums and religious buildings… You'll undoubtedly be captivated by the scenic beauty of this Italian city! Here's a non-exhaustive list of things you absolutely must do and see during a stay in Naples.
Strolling Through Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace
Located in the heart of the city, Piazza del Plebiscito is one of Italy's largest squares (25,000 m²). It is surrounded by magnificent buildings and notably features the Royal Palace where you can visit former royal apartments and the Basilica di San Francisco de Paula, a landmark of Italian Neoclassical architecture.
Visiting Castel Nuovo
You won't miss it! Dominating the entire port city, Castel Nuovo is the symbol of Naples. Built from 1279 onwards, this former Angevin fortress contains several buildings worth exploring, such as the Purgatory Chapel, the Hall of Barons, the prisons and its Triumphal Arch at the castle's entrance.
Learning at the National Archaeological Museum
If you're a history enthusiast, don't miss the National Archaeological Museum of Naples dedicated to Classical antiquity. It houses one of the world's most important Greco-Roman collections! You'll discover impressive mosaics and sculptures from Pompeii.
Discovering Castel dell'Ovo and Its Legend…
Located on the islet of Megaride and connected by a stone pier to the waterfront, Castel dell'Ovo is Naples' oldest castle. In addition to visiting the castle's interior, you can enjoy magnificent views of the city. You can also learn more about its legend, which says that a magic egg was hidden in its foundations to ensure its protection…
Visiting the San Carlo Theatre, Italy's Oldest
If you love music or architectural beauty, head to San Carlo Theatre. Opened in 1737, it's one of the world's oldest operas and one of the most renowned on the planet. You can take a guided tour to discover the beauty of the venue or book tickets to see a ballet or opera and experience an unforgettable evening…
Wandering Through the Umberto Gallery and Its Impressive Glass Roof
While the Umberto Gallery will delight shopping enthusiasts as it functions as a large shopping center, it deserves a visit especially for its Renaissance-style architecture. You can admire its impressive glass roof and central dome reaching 57 meters in height! Also take time to look at the floor, where you'll discover a large mosaic representing the zodiac.
Strolling Through the Santa Chiara Religious Complex
Overall, the Santa Chiara complex includes a basilica, two convents, a cloister, a museum and an archaeological excavation area. Beyond discovering the interior of the Gothic-style basilica, you can take a break in the cloisters. Walls adorned with frescoes in soft pastel tones and gardens lined with colonnades… There's no doubt, this bucolic atmosphere in the heart of the city is a true haven of peace to discover during a stay in Naples!
Tasting the Savory Local Gastronomy
It's impossible to imagine a stay in Naples without enjoying the savory local gastronomy renowned throughout the world. After all, it's in Naples that the first pizzas were created! The most popular one? Neapolitan pizza, of course… Made with San Marzano tomatoes and authentic mozzarella di bufala campana, it's even listed as part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
Among other culinary specialties of Naples to try, you can also mention spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), gnocchi alla sorrentina (potato gnocchi with tomato sauce and mozzarella) and numerous pastries (babà, jakapastiera, sfogliatella, zeppole, roccocò and struffoli…)!
What to Do and See in the Surroundings of Naples?
Beyond downtown, the Naples region is surrounded by incredible historical and natural sites. Here are 3 experiences to enjoy from Naples.
Visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum
Located just 30 minutes' drive from Naples, the archaeological park of Pompeii is an absolute must for any trip to Italie! The world's most visited archaeological site, this Roman city was buried under 4 to 6 meters of ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. One thing is certain: we recommend exploring Pompeii with a guide to learn all the secrets and not miss anything about the history of this city literally frozen in time.
Neighboring city of Pompeii, Herculaneum also deserves a visit. Not only is it somewhat less visited, but this city—which also succumbed to the terrible eruption of Vesuvius—reveals scenes of Roman life that are even better preserved!
Climbing to the Crater of Mount Vesuvius
Made tragically famous by its eruption in 79 AD which destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Vesuvius volcano is located about ten kilometers from Naples. You can climb to its summit (1,281 meters altitude) by taking a hiking trail (starting at 1,000 meters altitude) that will lead you to the crater. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surroundings and learn more about the geology of this volcano if you opt for a visit accompanied by a local guide!
Sailing to the Islands Off Naples
From Naples, you can head to the coastal islands by taking a ferry or booking an excursion. You can also choose to rent a private boat (motorboat, sailboat, yacht, boat without license…) to travel with or without a skipper! Whatever type of transport you choose, you can visit the charming islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida and enjoy their utterly delightful picturesque landscapes…
Frequently asked questions
A minimum of 3 days is recommended to discover the main sites of downtown (Castel Nuovo, archaeological museum, San Carlo Theatre, Piazza del Plebiscito). If you also want to visit Pompeii, climb Mount Vesuvius and sail to Capri or Ischia, plan rather 5 days to fully enjoy the region.
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times to visit Naples. Temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller than in summer and prices are more accessible. Avoid August if possible: it's very hot and the city is very touristy.
Pompeii is approximately 30 minutes from Naples by car. You can also take the Circumvesuviana, a regional train that connects Naples to Pompeii-Scavi station in about 35 minutes for a very affordable fare. It's the most convenient and economical option for travelers without a car.
It's not mandatory, but highly recommended. The Pompeii archaeological site is enormous and complex to navigate alone. A local guide will allow you to understand the history of this city frozen in time, spot unusual details and not miss the most emblematic areas.
Yes, ferries and hydrofoils regularly depart from Naples port to Capri, Ischia and Procida. The crossing to Capri takes about 50 minutes by regular ferry or 25 minutes by hydrofoil. You can also rent a private boat for a customized excursion with or without a skipper.
The Neapolitan Margherita pizza is a must-try: it's made with San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala campana. Listed as UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage, it's best enjoyed in an old pizzeria in Naples' historic center. The marinara pizza (tomato, garlic, oregano, no cheese) is another sure bet to try.
