Founded by Greeks in the first millennium BCE, Naples is one of the most ancient cities in Europe and it remains alluring to this day.
Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, with Mt Vesuvius towering in the distance, Italy’s third-largest city is home to an incredible wealth of art and architecture. Ancient Greek wall fortifications, a Roman-era theater, and a Norman castle testify to its long, rich history. Around every corner in the city’s UNESCO-designated historical center, you’ll find baroque churches, splendid Renaissance-era piazzas, and charming cafes.
“Rome is the heart of Italy, but Naples is its soul,” say the Italians – and, indeed, Neapolitans have mastered the art of la dolce vita (“the sweet life”). Explore this vibrant city with this list of the best things to do in Naples.
1. Stroll Spaccanapoli, the Beating Heart of Naples
Spaccanapoli – literally, “Naples splitter” – is the bustling narrow street that traverses Naples’ Centro Storico (historical center). Buzzing Vespas, neighbors debating politics from opposing balconies, and tiny artisan workshops resonate with vibrant energy. Spaccanapoli is home to some of the city’s most famous churches, including the circa 1470 Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo and the Cappella Sansevero, renowned for its marble sculpture Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino.
2. Take a Bite into a Slice of Pizza in the City Where It Was Born
The delicious aroma of freshly baked dough wafts through the air in Naples, known as the birthplace of pizza. Resident Raffaele Esposito often credited with creating the first Pizza Margherita, commemorated the visit of Italian queen Margherita in 1889. Local street vendors had long been peddling wood-oven-baked flatbreads with toppings. Pizzerias focus on using organic ingredients and local produce from the surrounding Campania region, making it difficult to find a mediocre slice of pizza in this culinary hotspot.
3. Shop for Holiday Gifts Year-Round Along the Narrow Christmas Alley
Naples has a tradition of presepi (nativity scenes) dating back 1000 years. Every year on December 8, families prepare a presepe with statues of the Holy Family and townspeople of Bethlehem. Throughout the year, the narrow alleyway of Via San Gregorio is bustling with traditional presepe artisans where you’ll find all the figurines needed to create your own display.
4. See the Colorful Cloister of the Santa Chiara Religious Complex
Built between 1313 and 1340, the Santa Chiara monastic complex includes the Baroque-style Basilica di Santa Chiara, a monastery, tombs, and an archaeological museum. This peaceful escape in the Cloister of the Clarisse features citrus fruit trees and majolica-tiled columns, allowing a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city.
5. Discover Treasures at the Naples National Archaeological Museum
Established in the late 18th century, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale is best known for housing treasures from the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 CE. Don’t miss the Farnese marbles and ancient Roman bronzes that provide insight into a sophisticated past.
6. Explore the Underground Catacombe di San Gennaro
The Catacombe di San Gennaro is an extensive Christian catacomb complex featuring over 3000 tombs carved into tuff stone. These underground passages offer a glimpse into Naples’ rich early Christian history.
7. Indulge in Delicious Neapolitan Pastries
No visit to Naples is complete without sampling its delectable pastries. Virtually every street boasts a pasticceria, tempting visitors with treats like sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta, and babà, rum-soaked yeast cakes.
8. Stroll the Lungomare
The passeggiata is an Italian tradition that involves taking leisurely evening strolls, and Naples’ Lungomare promenade is the perfect place for this social activity, where friends and families gather to enjoy each other’s company.
9. See the Castel dell’Ovo, Naples’ Seafront “Egg Castle”
Legend has it that the Roman poet Virgil placed a magical egg into the foundation of the Castel dell’Ovo, the oldest fortification in Naples. While the castle itself is closed, visitors can enjoy beautiful vistas of the Gulf of Naples from the tiny island it occupies.
10. Ascend to Piazza Vanvitelli on the Funicolare Centrale
The Funicolare Centrale transports passengers upwards from Piazza Fuga to Piazza Vanvitelli, an important commercial area. The trip takes about five minutes and offers an efficient way to explore the city’s elevated neighborhoods.
11. Climb the Ramparts of Castel Nuovo
This striking medieval castle, first erected in 1279, served as the royal seat for kings of Naples. Its impressive architecture provides beautiful views of the city and access to valuable artworks.
12. Peek Inside Naples’ Royal Palace
The Palazzo Reale was once one of the opulent palaces of the kingdom that ruled southern Italy. Visitors can admire its ornately decorated and beautifully preserved rooms, which tell the story of royal life in Naples.
13. Catch a Performance at the Opulent Teatro San Carlo
Teatro San Carlo, the oldest continuously active opera house in the world, has hosted exceptional performances since its opening in 1737. Its grandeur makes it a must-visit for opera enthusiasts.
14. Climb to the Summit of Mt Vesuvius
Hiking the Gran Cono Trail to the summit of Mt Vesuvius offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. The trail presents an adventure for nature lovers and a chance to explore the impact of one of history’s most famous volcanic eruptions.
15. Visit the Ruins of Pompeii
Discover the haunting remains of Pompeii, buried under volcanic ash after Mt Vesuvius erupted. The archaeological park serves as a powerful reminder of the past, offering insights into Roman life before the devastating event. Located just 15 miles south of Naples, Pompeii can be easily accessed by local transportation.
