NAPLES
Naples is a city of raw energy and soul, where ancient streets pulsate with modern life. Its history is a layered masterpiece, from its Greek origins to its role as the capital of the Kingdom of Naples.
This city is the fiery heart of Southern Italy. It’s a land of unparalleled art and architecture, home to world-class museums, breathtaking palaces, and the celebrated birthplace of Neapolitan pizza.
Most Popular Attractions
Naples City Core & Castles:
Piazza del Plebiscito: A vast, semi-circular piazza framed by the colonnades of the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola and the Royal Palace.
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale): A grand 17th-century palace that served as the residence for Spanish and Bourbon monarchs, now a museum showcasing royal art and furnishings.
Castel dell’Ovo: Naples’ oldest standing castle, located on a small island, offering panoramic views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius.
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino): An imposing medieval fortress built in the 13th century, dominating the port of Naples with its distinctive triumphal arch.
Galleria Umberto I: A stunning 19th-century public shopping gallery with a high glass dome and iron structure, similar to the one in Milan.
Teatro di San Carlo: The oldest continuously active opera house in Europe, renowned for its lavish decor and exceptional acoustics.
Museums & Historical Sites:
Naples National Archaeological Museum: Home to one of the world’s finest collections of Roman artifacts, including many treasures excavated from the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Sansevero Chapel (Museo Cappella Sansevero): A small chapel famous for Giuseppe Sanmartino’s breathtaking sculpture, the Veiled Christ, a masterpiece of marble craftsmanship.
Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro): The city’s main cathedral, which houses the relic of Saint Januarius, the city’s patron saint, and his famous blood vial.
Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara: A religious complex featuring a Gothic church, a cloister with vibrant majolica tiles depicting rural scenes, and a museum.
Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte: A royal palace and art museum located in a park on a hill, housing an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Titian, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Underground Naples:
Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea): A network of ancient aqueducts and tunnels carved from the earth by Greeks and Romans, later used as air-raid shelters in WWII.
Catacombs of San Gennaro: An underground Christian cemetery with two levels of tunnels, containing some of the oldest Christian frescoes in Southern Italy.
Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel): A secret escape route built for the Bourbon king, now a museum filled with vintage cars and historical relics.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions:
Pompeii Archaeological Site: A city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Mount Vesuvius: The active volcano that looms over the Gulf of Naples. Visitors can hike to the crater for spectacular views.
Herculaneum Archaeological Park: A Roman town also buried by Vesuvius, but better preserved than Pompeii due to a different type of eruption.
Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta): A magnificent royal residence and UNESCO World Heritage site, rivaling Versailles in grandeur.
Capri: A famous island in the Bay of Naples, known for its rugged coastline, the Blue Grotto, and upscale resorts.
Amalfi Coast: A breathtaking stretch of coastline with cliffside villages like Positano and Amalfi, easily accessible for a day trip.
Paestum: An ancient Greek city south of Naples, home to three remarkably well-preserved Greek temples.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea): Descend into the labyrinthine tunnels and chambers beneath the city, revealing a 2,000-year history from ancient Greek aqueducts to WWII air raid shelters.
Hike Mount Vesuvius: Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up the active volcano that famously buried Pompeii. The crater offers spectacular panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.
Discover the Ruins of Pompeii: Walk the ancient streets of this remarkably preserved Roman city, frozen in time by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. It’s an unforgettable glimpse into ancient life.
Take a Pizza Making Class: Naples is the birthplace of pizza. Learn the art of making a true Neapolitan pizza (Pizza Napoletana) from a master pizzaiolo.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum: See the incredible artifacts excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures, providing context to the ancient ruins.
Go on a Boat Trip to the Amalfi Coast: Take a day trip from Naples by ferry or private boat to explore the stunning coastal towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
Explore the Phlegraean Fields (Campi Flegrei): Discover this vast volcanic caldera, home to mythical sites like the Cave of the Cumaean Sibyl and a well-preserved Roman amphitheater in Pozzuoli.
Taste the Street Food: Sample Neapolitan street food classics like frittatina (fried pasta balls), pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza), and cuoppo di mare (fried seafood served in a cone).
Take a Day Trip to the Island of Procida: Escape to this colorful, less-touristy island known for its pastel houses, quiet fishing villages, and authentic atmosphere.
Stroll Along the Lungomare: Walk along the scenic waterfront promenade, Via Partenope, with views of the Castel dell’Ovo and Mount Vesuvius, ending with a traditional Neapolitan aperitivo.
Discover the Royal Palace of Caserta: Visit this magnificent palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site often referred to as the “Italian Versailles,” with its sprawling gardens and opulent interiors.
Explore the Catacombs of San Gennaro: Descend into the ancient Christian burial grounds beneath the Capodimonte hill, decorated with early Christian frescoes and mosaics.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting Around Naples: The city center is chaotic but fascinating, and walking is the best way to experience it. For longer distances, Naples has a metro system, a funicular railway, and an extensive bus network.
- Metro: The most efficient way to get around. Line 1 is particularly useful, connecting the historic center, the main train station (Garibaldi), and the upscale Vomero neighborhood. The “Art Stations” (Stazioni dell’Arte) on Line 1 are a must-see for their contemporary art installations.
- Funiculars: Four funicular lines connect the city center with the hilly Vomero district, offering a quick and scenic way to access the Castel Sant’Elmo and Certosa di San Martino.
From the Airport: The Alibus is a direct and affordable bus service connecting Naples International Airport (NAP) to the main train station (Stazione Centrale) and the port (Porto). Taxis are also available.
From the Port: Ferries and hydrofoils are the main mode of transport for day trips to the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida, as well as the Amalfi Coast. The main port is Molo Beverello.
Circumvesuviana Train: This private railway connects Naples to archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum and the Amalfi Coast towns like Sorrento. It is the most economical way to visit these sites but can be crowded.
Embrace the Chaos: Naples is a loud, vibrant, and at times overwhelming city. The streets are a mix of ancient and modern, and the traffic is legendary. Instead of fighting it, embrace the energy and enjoy the spectacle.
Dining Culture: Meals are a significant social event. Lunch is typically eaten between 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM, while dinner begins around 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants.
The Art of Coffee: Neapolitans take their coffee very seriously. Order an espresso at a bar, which is often served with a glass of water. Drink it quickly at the counter and don’t expect a large latte.
Pizza Etiquette: Don’t ask for pineapple on your pizza! A true Neapolitan pizza is simple—the classic Margherita with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is the gold standard. Eat it with a knife and fork, or fold it in half for a “wallet” pizza.
Respect and Superstition: Naples has a deeply superstitious culture. The symbol of a red horn (cornicello) is often worn or displayed to ward off the evil eye. The city is also very devoted to its patron saint, San Gennaro.
Hidden Gems:
- Cimitero delle Fontanelle: An eerie but fascinating ossuary in a former tuff quarry, housing the anonymous skulls of victims of plagues and epidemics. Locals adopted the skulls and cared for them, believing they would bring good luck.
- Quartieri Spagnoli: The Spanish Quarters are a maze of narrow, bustling streets. While they have a gritty reputation, they are the heart and soul of Naples, with clotheslines strung between buildings and the vibrant street life.
- San Gregorio Armeno: A narrow alley in the historic center famous for its workshops of Nativity scene (presepe) artisans, who create intricate figurines year-round, including satirical figures of modern celebrities and politicians.
- Gaiola Underwater Park: Located at the end of the Posillipo hill, this protected marine area offers beautiful snorkeling and kayaking, allowing you to see Roman ruins and villas submerged beneath the crystal-clear water.
Language: Learning a few basic Italian phrases will be a great help and show respect to the locals. Neapolitan is a distinct dialect, but most people will understand standard Italian.
Top Restaurants
Trattoria da Nennella [$15-$30] – Rowdy, authentic trattoria in the Spanish Quarter known for generous portions of classic Neapolitan home cooking and lively service.
Tandem Ragù [$15-$30] – A small, beloved spot famous for its deeply flavored ragù and hearty pasta dishes—perfect for a slow, traditional lunch.
Osteria della Mattonella [$15-$30] – Neighborhood favorite serving simple, seasonal dishes and classic antipasti in a warm, no-fuss setting.
La Locanda Gesù Vecchio [$20-$35] – Cozy, family-run restaurant near Piazza Gesù offering refined versions of regional staples like paccheri and parmigiana.
Mimì alla Ferrovia [$20-$35] – Historic Naples institution close to the station, known for classic seafood and traditional Neapolitan specialties.
Hosteria Toledo [$15-$30] – A straightforward osteria offering excellent daily pasta, local wines, and an authentic Neapolitan atmosphere.
Cantina del Gallo [$15-$30] – Small wine-focused tavern with charcuterie, local cheeses, and a friendly, local crowd.
Da Donato al Porto [$20-$35] – Traditional seafood trattoria near the port, loved for its simple, very fresh fish preparations.
Antico Forno delle Sfogliatelle [$5-$12] – Not a full restaurant but a must: a bakery famous for sfogliatelle and other classic Neapolitan pastries — perfect for a morning bite.
Trattoria da Clara [$20-$35] – Family-run spot in the historic center offering authentic seasonal dishes and homely hospitality.
Hosteria Toledo Vecchia [$15-$30] – Tiny, atmospheric place near Spaccanapoli serving classic antipasti and rich ragù dishes.
Il Cuoppo di Arturo [$10-$20] – Street-food style fritto vendor (paper cone cuoppo) ideal for tasting a variety of ried seafood while walking the city.
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele [$8-$20] – Legendary, no-reservations pizzeria famous for two-menu simplicity (margherita or marinara) and a decades-old dough tradition.
Sorbillo [$8-$25] – A high-energy, family-run pizzeria on Via dei Tribunali celebrated for well-balanced, flavorful Neapolitan pies.
Pizzeria Starita [$10-$25] – Historic pizzeria offering classic and creative pizzas (try the “Montanara”) in a lively, authentic setting.
Pizzeria Di Matteo [$8-$18] – Classic hole-in-the-wall on Via Tribunali known for great pizza by the slice and excellent fried snacks.
Pizzeria La Notizia (Enzo Coccia) [$15-$35] – Artisan pizzeria widely respected for technique, ingredient quality, and innovative takes on the classic pie.
Trianon da Ciro [$8-$20] – Longstanding pizzeria near Da Michele serving steady, crowd-pleasing Neapolitan pizzas since mid-20th century.
50 Kalo [$15-$30] – Modern pizzeria with a focus on high-quality dough and ingredients; a favorite of locals wanting a refined pizza experience.
Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo ai Tribunali [$10-$25] – Another Sorbillo location with consistently excellent pies and a buzzing atmosphere.
Pizzeria Pellone [$8-$20] – A local classic famed for enormous, hearty pizzas and a dependable old-school approach.
Pizzeria La Notizia 94 [$12-$30] – Enzo Coccia’s second venue offering refined pizzas and seasonal toppings in a polished environment.
Il Pizzaiolo del Presidente [$12-$28] – A smaller pizzeria known for creative toppings and careful dough-handling, popular with locals.
Pizzeria da Attilio alla Pignasecca [$8-$20] – Traditional, neighborhood pizzeria near the market beloved for bright tomato flavors and a bustling vibe.
Palazzo Petrucci [$40-$80] – Creative Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish beachside/Posillipo-facing space; tasting menus and modern seafood preparations.
Veritas Napoli [$35-$70] – Contemporary restaurant blending local ingredients with inventive techniques and refined plating.
Libreria Restaurant (Palazzo Caracciolo area) [$30-$60] – Trendy spot mixing modern flavors with Naples’s culinary tradition in a chic, bookish setting.
La Cantina dei Mille [$25-$45] – Creative small plates and modern takes on Southern Italian dishes with a strong wine selection.
A Figlia d’ ’o Marenaro [$25-$45] – Modernized seafood plates inspired by Naples’s coastal tradition, served in an elegant yet approachable way.
Il Mortaro [$30-$55] – Contemporary bistro focusing on refined interpretations of classic Neapolitan recipes and seasonal produce.
Gusto Ristopizzeria [$20-$40] – Modern plates and elevated pizza offerings—great for groups who want both creativity and comfort.
Carmnella Bistrot [$25-$50] – Small, modern bistro pushing regional ingredients into creative tasting menus.
Il Comandante [$80-$140] – Michelin-starred restaurant at the ROMEO Napoli hotel offering elegant, modern cuisine with spectacular bay views and meticulous tasting menus.
Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse Napoli [$90-$160] – High-end, French-influenced fine dining experience located on the ROMEO rooftop offering refined, luxurious cuisine.
Veritas (fine-menu options) [$70-$120] – Offers elevated tasting menus and an intimate dining room—perfect for special occasions.
Palazzo Petrucci — fine dining floor [$80-$140] – The upper floors offer formal tasting menus and elegant service overlooking the sea
Mimì alla Ferrovia (upgraded dining) [$50-$90] – One of Naples’s historical addresses with refined preparations and a classic-retro dining room.
La Terrazza del Genoa [$60-$100] – Upscale seafood and refined southern Italian dishes on a panoramic terrace (ideal for sunset dinners).
Da Dora [$25-$50] – Intimate seafood trattoria in the port area known for fresh daily catches and simple, honest preparations.
Marechiaro Ristorante [$30-$60] – Classic Neapolitan seafood by the water with beautiful views and traditional preparations.
Ristorante Mattozzi [$25-$45] – Coastal-style seafood plates with a focus on pristine flavor and minimal fuss.
Angelo a Mare [$35-$65] – Elegant seafood restaurant on the waterfront with creative fish dishes and a pleasant terrace.
Ristorante La Scialuppa [$30-$60] – Family-run seafood spot in Mergellina with charming views and excellent shellfish.
Il Pescatore di Marechiaro [$30-$60] – Well-regarded for grilled fish and simple, high-quality seafood selections close to Posillipo.
La Cantina dei Lazzari [$20-$40] – Atmospheric cellar-style eatery offering regional plates and a wide selection of Campanian wines.
La Masardona [$10-$25] – Famous for fried pizza (pizza fritta), a Neapolitan street-food specialty served by locals at all hours.
La Paranza Napoli [$20-$40] – Small, modern seafood-focused venue popular for small plates and friendly staff.
La Befana Gastronomia [$15-$30] – Traditional deli-restaurant serving excellent cured meats, cheeses, and well-executed panini and pastas.
Osteria La Chitarra [$20-$40] – Cozy osteria emphasizing handmade pasta and a short seasonal menu with strong local roots.
Antica Trattoria Nennella del Centro [$15-$35] – A quieter offshoot of the famous Nennella, offering the same hearty local cooking with a calmer vibe.
50 Kalò Marble Bar (late service) [$10-$25] – Great for late-night pizza and snacks after a night out in central Naples.
Cuoppo & Friends [$8-$18] – Fritto takeaway stands scattered around central Naples—perfect for sampling multiple bite-sized fried specialties.
Pasticceria Scaturchio (late pastries) [$5-$15] – Historic pastry shop ideal for late-night sfogliatelle and babà.
Taralli e Caffè Napoli [$5-$15] – Small café specializing in taralli and classic Neapolitan espresso — perfect for a quick, authentic bite.
Kestè — Street-style seafood cones [$10-$20] – Popular vendor for packed cones of fried seafood and shellfish ideal for eating on the go.
Panino di Mare [$8-$20] – Seaside sandwich stands that do excellent seafood panini with fresh local ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
L’Antiquario: One of Naples’ most famous speakeasies, located in the Chiaia district. Expect classic cocktails, low lighting, and a sophisticated old-world atmosphere.
Alter Ego: Found in the historic center, this stylish bar offers creative mixology with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.
Platanos: A hidden gem near Piazza Bellini with a tropical vibe and signature rum-based cocktails that are perfect for warm Neapolitan evenings.
Archivio Storico: Located in Vomero, this upscale cocktail lounge is themed around Neapolitan history, serving unique, theatrically presented cocktails.
Flanagan’s Bar: A cozy Irish-style pub and cocktail spot near Piazza dei Martiri, popular with locals and expats for pre-night-out drinks.
Barril: In the Chiaia neighborhood, this stylish bar features a lush garden, comfortable seating, and an extensive list of cocktails, ideal for a romantic start to the evening.
Chandelier: A chic cocktail bar near the Riviera di Chiaia with a glamorous interior and a menu of inventive, Instagram-worthy drinks.
Mosto – Birra & Distillati: Located in the Vomero area, this bar is perfect for those who appreciate craft spirits and creative cocktails, offering a rotating seasonal menu.
Ba-Bar: A lively cocktail spot in the Mergellina waterfront area, known for its spritz variations and beach-club-style energy.
Il Tempo del Vino e delle Rose: Situated near the Archaeological Museum, this intimate wine and cocktail bar offers a literary ambiance, making it a unique place to sip a Negroni.
Pepi Vintage Room: A small, atmospheric bar hidden in a narrow street of the historic center, specializing in classic Italian aperitifs and vintage spirits.
Libreria Berisio: A bookshop-bar hybrid near Piazza Bellini that serves cocktails surrounded by floor-to-ceiling shelves of books, giving it a bohemian vibe.
Common Ground: A trendy spot in Chiaia offering craft cocktails and tapas-style bites, perfect for a stylish aperitivo hour.
Enoteca Belledonne: In the Chiaia district, this intimate wine and cocktail bar is a local favorite for pre-dinner drinks and small plates.
Tandem Cocktail Bar: Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, this bar near Via Toledo serves a mix of classics and house specialties that are ideal for winding down after sightseeing.
Club Partenopeo: One of Naples’ largest and most iconic clubs, located on the waterfront in Coroglio, offering open-air dance floors, international DJs, and stunning views of the bay.
Lanificio 25: A former wool mill turned cultural venue near Porta Capuana, hosting live music, DJ sets, and themed nights with an industrial-chic aesthetic.
Basic Club: A renowned underground club near Piazza Garibaldi, focused on techno and house music, with top-notch sound and lighting systems.
Nabilah: A glamorous beach club and nightclub just outside Naples, overlooking the sea, known for its summer parties and sunset aperitifs.
HBToo: Located in Coroglio, this stylish venue doubles as a restaurant and club, with themed weekends and a sophisticated, modern crowd.
Posillipo Theater Club: A historical venue in Posillipo that has been transformed into a vibrant club with live music, cabaret, and dancing until late.
Arenile di Bagnoli: A massive open-air club on the beach that hosts some of the biggest events in Naples, from electronic music festivals to live concerts.
La Mela: A legendary club in the historic center, known for its retro disco vibe and local crowd — a true Naples nightlife institution.
Galleria 19: A stylish club in the Chiaia area with vaulted ceilings and an artsy feel, offering eclectic music nights from jazz to electronic.
Alter Ego Club: A trendy venue with themed nights, located near the center, known for attracting a fashionable and international crowd.