Naples Travel Guide: Local Tips for your Trip

Chaotic yet beautiful, Naples offers travelers wonderful coastal views, breathtaking historical heritage, and lively urban sceneries.

Read this comprehensive Naples travel guide to learn about the must-see attractions, getting around, the best time to visit, local tips, and more, and start planning your dream trip to the City of the Sun!

Where is Naples Located

Naples is the third largest city in Italy, after Rome and Milan, and it’s the capital of the Campania region. Located in southern Italy and on the Gulf of Naples, the city covers an area of approximately 119 square kilometers, with a population of around 950,000. Known for its historical significance in the region, Naples is situated near the famous Mount Vesuvius.

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Quick Facts about Naples, Italy

Name: Napoli (Italian)
Region: Campania
Area: 117 square kilometers (45 square miles)
Altitude: 0-40 meters (0-131 feet)
Districts: 10 municipalities (Comuni)
Population: 967,069 (city), ~3.1 million (metropolitan area)
Top Attractions: Vesuvius, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Naples National Archaeological Museum, Capodimonte Museum, Royal Palace of Caserta, San Carlo Theatre, Spaccanapoli, Piazza del Plebiscito, Castel Nuovo, Galleria Umberto I, Vomero district, Posillipo hill

Getting to Naples

Naples can be easily reached by a variety of transportation options. Each transportation stands out with different aspects, from more budget-friendly to the fastest options, and whether you take a plane or train, drive, or arrive by cruise, getting to Naples is straightforward and hassle-free. Choose your preferred transportation to get to Naples, and get ready for an exhilarating journey!

Transportation Options

Flights: Naples’ main airport is called Naples International Airport. It’s located 6 kilometers from the city center, making it a convenient transportation option to get to the city. With both international and domestic flights, the city is well-connected to most European cities and other parts of the world. From the airport, the city center can be easily reached by taxis or Alibus shuttles, and the journey from the airport takes from 20 to 30 minutes.
Trains: Italy’s railway network is known to be quite extensive, and you can easily get to Naples by high-speed trains arriving at the Napoli Centrale. High-speed trains are operated by Italo and Trenitalia, and it takes approximately an hour to reach Naples from Rome, and three hours from Florence by using these trains. While high-speed trains only offer transportation within Italy, you can travel to major Italian cities from other European countries and transfer to Naples from there.
Cruises: Getting to Naples by cruise is another popular option for a more scenic and entertaining journey. Located at Molo Beverello, Stazione Marittima, a.k.a. Naples Cruise Terminal within the Port of Naples is a busy port where many major cruise lines stop by. From the port, the city center can be reached in 10 minutes by walking, which makes it a convenient and enjoyable choice for cruisers.
Driving: Arriving in the city by car offers a more scenic journey. Naples can be easily reached by the A1 motorway, which connects Naples to Rome and other major Italian cities. Many European travelers can follow this motorway to get to Naples. However, note that driving in the city can be quite overwhelming due to its heavy traffic and trouble finding park space.

Arriving in Naples

Naples International Airport: There are two options that you can choose to reach the historic center when you arrive at the airport. One of them is a taxi, and the other one is a shuttle service called ‘Alibus’. If you’re in a hurry and don’t mind the prices, you can take a taxi from the airport. Alibus, on the other hand, is the most convenient option and it only takes 5€. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and it’s a great choice to have a local experience.
Napoli Centrale Train Station: The most common transportation options from the train station are the metro and taxis. Metro Line 1 starts from the Piazza Garibaldi station, which can be found underneath the Napoli Centrale, and stops near the Port of Naples, the Naples Archeological Museum, and the Duomo. At the exit of the station, many taxis and buses that go to different parts of the city can also be found.
Porto Napoli (Port of Naples): The port is conveniently located close to the city center of Naples, and it only takes 10 to 20 minutes to walk to the central attractions like Piazza Municipio and Spaccanapoli. For those who want to take buses, you should walk to the Piazza Municipio first, which takes around 10 minutes to walk, and find several buses that go to central spots like Corso Umberto I and Via Duomo.

Public Transport in Naples, Italy

Naples’ public transport system can be a bit confusing at first. There are metro, trams, buses, and funicular railways, which are operated by different companies. However, once you get yourself familiar with them, it’s pretty easy to get around in the city and its surrounding areas.

Getting Around Naples

Similar to other Italian cities, Naples is compact and most places are within walking distance. The easiest way to get around in Naples is to usually combine walking with the metro or bus.

While most of the central attractions, such as the Duomo and Castel Nuovo, can be reached by foot from the historic center and nearby areas, the further parts of the city, including the Lungomare promenade or Vomero, can be reached by public transportation easily.

Metro: Even though there are only two metro lines in Naples, which are Line 1 and Line 2, they are quite efficient. These lines are not connected to the airport, but they still cover most of the city, including the main train station. Line 1 is especially ideal to reach the city center and nearby areas, including Chiaia, making it a convenient option in addition to walking.
Buses: Naples has no main bus terminal. Buses usually depart from and arrive at the Piazza Garibaldi, and they run around areas that are not covered by metro. Bus stops can be found at major intersections, but they still need to be combined with walking to reach tourist attractions.
Trams: Trams are efficient transportation options as they don’t get caught in traffic. However, few tram lines are operating, and they don’t cover the central areas of the city. Trams are usually used to reach the more residential areas and the parts along the coast, but not the city center.

Top Attractions and Experiences in Naples

Must-See Attractions in Naples

Duomo di Napoli: Cathedral of Naples, known for its stunning architecture featuring Gothic and Baroque elements, rich history, and religious importance.
National Archaeological Museum: Standing out with various collections that showcase ancient Roman artifacts, this is one of the most important and famous archeology museums in the world.
Cappella Sansevero: Home to one of the most stunning sculptures in the world, the Veiled Christ, this chapel is known for its remarkable Baroque art pieces.
Santa Chiara Monastery: A 14th-century Gothic masterpiece, it consists of a church, a cloister with lush gardens, and a museum.
Gesu Nuovo: Famous church located on the Centro Storico, known for its beautifully decorated Baroque interior and unique façade.
Royal Palace of Naples: Located in Piazza Plebiscito, the palace is famous for its lush gardens, fancy rooms, and unique artworks.

Things to Do in and near Naples

Ancient Ruins of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius: Pompeii and Herculaneum are two ancient cities that were buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius. These cities can be reached by Circumvesuviana trains from Naples, and visiting the archeological ruins is an excellent way to discover the tragic history of these cities.
Boat Tours to Capri and Blue Grotto: Jump on a boat and enjoy a ride on the stunning Gulf of Naples. Discover the gems of beautiful Capri, and see the magnificent sea cave called Blue Grotto.
Spaccanapoli: Seems like splitting the historic center of Naples into two, Spaccanapoli is a narrow main street filled with gift shops, churches, and restaurants. There’s always so much to do on this street, and you’ll never get bored.
Day Trip to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi: Known for their natural beauties, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views, Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi are popular coastal towns of the Campania region. Day trips to these destinations allow travelers to enhance their Naples trip at its best.
Museo MADRE: For those who would like to see more than ancient sites, Museo MADRE is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. This museum is located in the historic center, and it’s housed in the Palazzo Donnaregina.

Absolutely Free Things to do in Naples

Lungomare: Take a walk down the stunning Lungomare for free, and admire its breathtaking scenery featuring Mount Vesuvius and Castel dell'Ovo.
Stazioni dell'Arte: Resembling an art gallery, numerous metro stations in Naples are filled with vibrant art installations, all at no cost.
Via San Gregorio Armeno: Visit this lively and narrow shopping alley that is especially popular around Christmas, as it’s known for its souvenir and artisanal shops selling nativity figurines.
Castel dell'Ovo: One of the oldest castles of Naples, Castel dell'Ovo is a seafront attraction where you can tour inside for free.

When is the Best Time to Visit Naples in Italy?

There isn’t a single best time to visit Naples, as all seasons offer unique experiences. Each season has its ups and downs, such as busy tourist crowds and long queues, as well as better rates and budget-friendly offers. The best time to visit Naples largely depends on what you’re expecting from your trip, which makes the possibilities endless!

Spring (March-May): Best time for mild weather, plenty of annual events and festivals, and day trips to the surrounding destinations. While you can expect large crowds of tourists, it’s still a pleasant time for sightseeing, as the temperatures are not as high as in the summer.
Autumn (September-November): The wettest season of the year. Expect rainfalls, but also pleasant weather. It’s also the harvest season in Naples, so there are plenty of autumn-related events, beautiful fall colors, and smaller crowds.
Summer (June-August): Ideal for exploring the nearby towns on the Amalfi Coast, as well as islands like Capri and Ischia. There are plenty of summer festivals during these months, but keep in mind that the temperatures can be overwhelming.
Winter (December-February): Ideal for indoor exploration, better hotel rates, and less crowds. The weather is not so cold, but expect occasional rain. A beautiful time to see Christmas-related events and a festive atmosphere.

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Recurring Events, Holidays and Festivals in Naples, Italy

Maggio dei Monumenti (Throughout May): ‘May of Monuments’ is a festival that celebrates the monuments of the city every year. During this festival, various workshops, concerts, guided tours, and more take place in Naples.
Piedigrotta Festival (September 8): This ancient Neapolitan festival is celebrated for a couple of days in honor of Madonna di Piedigrotta, and it combines singing competitions, street parades, costume shows, and many more.
Feast of San Gennaro (September 19): Celebrated in honor of San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, the feast includes several religious services, parades, and other celebrations.
Napoli Pizza Village Festival: The best event for pizza lovers, this festival gathers the best pizza makers from all around Naples. It takes place along the Lungomare Caracciolo and includes pizza tastings, concerts, and other celebrations.

How Long to Stay in Naples?

Enjoy Naples to its fullest with customized itineraries for your preferences, and witness the ancient history of this city on the east of Mount Vesuvius and its surrounding coastal beauties.

1-2 Days: Ideal for visiting the attractions in and around the historic center of Naples, including the Duomo di Napoli, Royal Palace of Naples, and a guided tour of the Naples Underground.
3-4 Days: Best for a more relaxed experience and additional day trips to the ancient city Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as enjoying the view from the Castel Sant'Elmo and trying street foods.
5+ Days: Perfect for further explorations in museums and ancient sites, allows trips to Capri and Ischia islands, and also day trips to the coastal towns of Positano, Sorrento, and Amalfi.

Dining in Naples

Naples’ dining culture is largely rooted in tradition, community, and appreciation of fresh ingredients. It’s more than just food, but more like a passion and expression.

Best known for being the birthplace of pizza, the food culture in Naples includes many tasteful dishes that come from ancient times, and there are so many foods that you must try before ending your trip.

Foods and Drinks To Try in Naples

Pizza Neapolitan: Birthplace of pizza, Naples is most famous for its Neapolitan pizza. With its fluffy crust and tasteful ingredients, it’s a must-try food in Naples.
Cuoppo: Containing deep-fried foods wrapped in a paper cone, Cuoppo is a famous street food. It often includes fried seafood, such as shrimp and squid, as well as some vegetables.
Frittatina di Pasta: A medieval street food, Frittatina di Pasta is made by stuffing crispy fried pasta with a creamy filling, usually consisting of peas, ham and béchamel sauce.
Sfogliatella: This delicious sweet comes in two varieties. One of them is sfogliatella riccia, which is crispy and layered, and the other one is doughy and smooth sfogliatella frolla. Whichever you choose, definitely don't miss this one.
Limoncello: This renowned Italian liqueur is made of the zest of local lemons, and it's usually served after meals as a digestif.
Neapolitan Espresso: If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll love the Neapolitan espresso. Distinguished by its strong taste and aromatic brew, it’s the traditional way to start the day.

Where to Stay in Naples?

The ancient city of Naples is known to have chaotic, yet lively streets. It’s said that this city is not for beginners, which leads us to the question "Where should I stay in Naples?".

The answer to this question largely depends on what you’re expecting from your trip. Whether you travel as a couple, with your family, or solo, Naples offers various areas to stay for tourists. From budget-friendly accommodations to luxurious neighborhoods, there’s something for everybody.

Here are the most popular neighborhoods for tourists in Naples:

Centro Storico: More than just the center of the city, the historical center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Especially ideal for first-timers, here you have access to the key attractions in the city, including Basilica di Santa Restituta, Pio Monte della Misericordia, Spaccanapoli, and others. In addition to historical attractions, there are also plenty of pizzerias, bars, restaurants, a mix of medieval and modern buildings, and places to shop.
Via Toledo / Quartieri Spagnoli: For those who want to experience more local areas of Naples and have a budget-friendly trip, the Spanish Quarter is an ideal place to stay. Even though it’s a quite popular area amongst tourists as well, here you can get a chance to see the authentic side of Naples, with its colorful narrow streets, street art, and local bars. Via Toledo is the shopping thoroughfare of the area, which makes it a good choice for shopping enthusiasts as well.
Chiaia: Ideal for luxury-seekers, this area is known for its elegant accommodations, quiet streets, and closeness to the Lungomare promenade. It’s also ideal for families, as the area stands out with its comfortable, safe, and upscale neighborhoods, as well as trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels. Unlike most areas of Naples, Chiaia is one of the few areas where you can walk at night safely. This area is also known for high-end boutiques and plenty of luxury shopping options.
Posillipo: Located on a hill, this quiet and upscale residential neighborhood offers beautiful coastal views of the Bay of Naples. Posillipo is an ideal area to stay for travelers who want to stay away from the tourist crowds and spend some peaceful time away from the central areas. There are plenty of upscale restaurants, shops, and bars in the area. It also features several attractions, including the Pausilypon Park, the Virgilian Park, and Villa Rosebery.

Tips for Choosing the Right Area

Families: Along the Lungomare and in Chiaia for a peaceful atmosphere and organized streets.
Couples: Near Spaccanapoli or in the Historic Center offers a combination of history, culture, and romance.
Solo & Budget Travelers: Near the train station and Spanish Quarter for more affordable options.
Honeymooners & Luxury Seekers: Posillipo and Vomero areas are relatively secluded, but offer a romantic atmosphere in a luxurious setting.

Shopping in Naples

Collecting memoirs from trips is a special thing. When it comes to Naples, there is a wide range of iconic objects and souvenirs that you can buy to cherish your trip to this ancient city. From meaningful figurines and ceramic objects to delicious Neapolitan coffee, here’s what to buy in Naples.

What To Buy in Naples

Cornicello: A red horn resembling a chili pepper, the cornicello is the symbol of luck and protection. Found in the form of keychains, souvenirs, and small accessories, it’s believed to protect from evil.
Nativity Figurines: One of the most famous Neapolitan handmade crafts includes nativity figurines. Especially popular during Christmas time, you can find various figurines like sheep, angels, and many other nativity characters.
Pulcinella: This is a famous character from Neapolitan puppetry, and Pulcinella masks made from various materials are one of the most popular souvenirs to bring back home!
Ceramics: Naples and other areas in the Campania Region are renowned for their range of hand-painted ceramic objects. These include majolica plates, bowls and plates, ceramic tiles, and sculptures.
Neapolitan Coffee Cups & Pots: With its bitter taste and higher caffeine content, Neapolitan coffee is special, and the best way to make this coffee is by using a traditional pot called “cuccumella”.
Cameos: These are a type of carved jewelry made from corals, seashells, or other natural materials. Naples is known for this craftsmanship, and cameos are perfect gifts to buy.

Where to Go Shopping in Naples

Galleria Umberto I:

Not just a luxurious shopping destination, Galleria Umberto I is also a must-visit attraction that is known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture. Inside, you can find high-end boutiques, cafes, and various stores.

Via Toledo:

One of the most popular shopping streets of Naples, you can find anything on this street. From high-street brands to local shops, Via Toledo offers a mix of mid-range and pricey experiences.

Quartieri Spagnoli:

The Spanish Quarter is where you should visit for an authentic Naples experience. In its narrow streets, you can find small and family-owned shops that sell clothes at an affordable price, antique stores, and many others.

Poggioreale Market:

A popular street market in Naples, this is the place to find clothes and shoes at discounted prices. Due to its wide variety of shoes, the market is often referred to as “Shoe Alley”.

Via San Gregorio Armeno:

More like an alleyway, this place is where you should come to find gift shops and buy souvenirs, various figurines, and other artisanal crafts.

Via Chiaia:

From high-end boutiques to designer stores, Via Chiaia is one of the most distinguished shopping streets in Naples. Here, you can find many luxurious brands like Prada and Louis Vuitton.

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Payment, Credit Cards, and Tipping in Naples

In Italy, credit cards are almost accepted everywhere. However, this situation is a bit different in Naples. Even though most places accept credit cards in Naples, there are some restaurants, markets, street vendors, and some stores that don’t want to, or can’t, accept credit cards, so they mostly prefer cash.

Just like the rest of Italy, tipping is not mandatory in Naples either, but it wouldn’t be wrong to say that it’s much appreciated to do so. So if you’re thinking the service was good, feel free to tip. However, note that there’s a cover charge called “coperto” in restaurants, which is reflected in the bill.

Traveler Tips About Naples

Birthplace of pizza and a chaotic city with an ancient history, Naples is not for the faint-hearted. But don’t let that discourage you, as there are many traveler tips to help you prepare for your journey.

Learn some Italian. You probably won’t need it in most restaurants and hotels, but it’s still recommended to learn a little bit of the language so you can communicate with the locals.
Don’t rent a car in the city. The streets are narrow, parking spaces are limited, and the traffic jams are crazy. Almost everywhere is walkable in Naples, and public transport is efficient enough.
Beware of pickpockets. Just like the rest of Italy, pickpocketing is also common in Naples. Don’t wear flashy jewelry, and guard your personal belongings in the streets, at the train station, and in public transportation all the time.
On the first Sunday of the month, state-owned museums and archeological sites are free to visit in Italy. There is much to discover in Naples, so planning your itinerary according to this can help you on a budget trip.

History of Naples

The history of Naples begins with the Greek settlement, and the city was founded as Neapolis in the 8th century BC. Following its flourishing as a center of culture during Roman authority, Naples became a part of the Spanish Empire in the 16th century.

Before it became a part of the Italian Kingdom in 1861, Napoleon ruled the city for a short while. It had renovations and a rebirth of its culture following the World Wars. Today, Naples is well known for its lively atmosphere, rich cultural legacy, and mouth-watering pizzas.