Few cities require advance intel quite like sun-scorched Naples. With contradictions and guts in spades, this explosive southern Italian città doesn’t mess about.
Neighborhoods vary wildly in history, vibe, and noise levels, making it essential to plan your stay effectively. Stumble into the ‘wrong’ neighborhood and you could find yourself facing the macabre work of 5th-century schiattamorti (‘corpse squashers’) instead of a Caravaggio masterpiece or missing out on the famously sublime sea view that unfolds from Naples’ leafier hillside neighborhoods.
As Italy’s third-largest city, Naples is compact enough to explore in a few days, with metro, buses, and 1920s funiculars ensuring easy access to less-central districts. A wide variety of sights and activities are packed into each neighborhood, allowing you to craft your own unique Neapolitan experience – whether ethereal, elegant, or edgy.
Centro Storico
Best for sightseeing, drinking, and street life
The centro storico (historic center) is the noisy, throbbing heart of Naples, giving the city its notorious punch. Expect to be hurled into a theatrical time warp of crowd-packed squares, frescoed cloisters, and subterranean streets where Roman chariots once thundered.
This Unesco World Heritage site brims with historic churches and monuments, anchored by Naples’ heavyweight neo-Gothic duomo. Sightseeing among the dark, narrow alleys is as much about soaking up the local street vibe as it is about admiring artistic masterpieces and stunning marbles.
Night owls will find plenty to indulge in at the numerous wine bars, historic cafes, and edgy late-night venues. Accommodations range from budget options to luxurious stays, although it might be wise to pack earplugs if you prefer tranquility.
Quartieri Spagnoli
Best for a shot of cinematic Naples
The Spanish Quarter embodies the vibrant essence of Napoli: old-school pizzerias, clothes strung out to dry, and locals gathering at charming chapels, all set against a backdrop of lively streets. Built under Spanish rule in the 16th century, this district encapsulates the city’s vibrant everyday life.
Delve into alternative street art, authentic trattorias, and cozy guesthouses. Though be cautious further from Via Toledo, as some areas may feel less welcoming. For a cinematic experience, explore the contrast between the Quartieri Spagnoli and the elegant shops and palazzi of Via Toledo.
Vomero
Best for cooler air and lofty views
This genteel hillside neighborhood is accessible via funiculars and offers scenic views from its leafy avenues and beautiful villas. The breathtaking panorama of the bay and city, along with the tranquil grounds of Certosa e Museo di San Martino, makes Vomero a serene retreat from the hustle of the city.
In the evenings, locals flock to stylish cafes and gelaterie on Piazza Vanvitelli. Enjoy browsing through local shops and enjoying leisurely meals at boutique hotels amidst delightful Italian decor.
Santa Lucia
Best for the seafront experience
Located just south of Quartieri Spagnoli, seafront Santa Lucia features grand hotels, delightful restaurants, and family-friendly promenades along the Lungomare. Seafood menus here pay homage to the area’s roots as a 19th-century fishing village, attracting any gourmet to the neighborhood.
Don’t miss the picturesque views of Mt Vesuvius and Capri from Castel dell’Ovo, the hallmark of Borgo Marinaro and an essential experience when visiting Naples.
Chiaia
Best for shopping, drinking, and dining
Chiaia is the chic part of town, thriving with high-end shops, fashionable boutiques, independent design ateliers, art galleries, and delightful cafes. The neighborhood invites visitors for a retail therapy day, particularly during the open-air markets by Villa Comunale, where you can find local delicacies and artisan produce.
Gourmet restaurants and vibrant bars adorn the streets where trendy Neapolitans indulge in aperitivos. This cosmopolitan area is also home to a rich cultural scene, making it an ideal spot for socializing and convenience as you explore Naples.
La Sanità
Best for Neapolitan grit and exploring underground
North of Naples’ historic center is La Sanità, a dynamic neighborhood that’s experienced significant change. Bursting with raw energy and character, it draws visitors eager to explore the offbeat charm of Naples’ underground.
Guided tours through ancient catacombs and historical sites, like the haunting Cimitero delle Fontanelle, reveal a unique side of Naples. The dining scene here is more intimate, with artisanal pizzerias serving up traditional Neapolitan pizza, all made with high-quality ingredients.
