Naples surprised me in the best way possible. This bold, beautiful, and chaotic city is a masterpiece of contradictions. It’s loud, it’s layered, and it’s alive. One moment you’re eating pizza in a buzzing piazza, and the next you’re walking beneath the city in ancient tunnels that predate Rome.
In this guide, I’m sharing everything I loved about Naples from castles and art museums to street food, hidden chapels, and my favorite viewpoints. Whether you have a single day or an entire week, there’s no shortage of ways to fall in love with this electric corner of Italy.
Quick List: Top Things to Do in Naples
- Eat pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
- Explore the underground world of Napoli Sotterranea
- Wander Spaccanapoli and Centro Storico
- Visit the Naples Archaeological Museum
- Ride the funicular to Castel Sant’Elmo for epic views
- Explore Castel dell’Ovo and Castel Nuovo
- Admire the Veiled Christ in Sansevero Chapel
- Take a food tour (or just follow your nose)
- Stroll the Metro Art Stations (Toledo is my favorite)
- Take a day trip to Pompeii, Vesuvius, or Capri
- Visit the Phlegraean Fields and Solfatara crater
- Catch an opera at Teatro di San Carlo
- Sip espresso in Piazza del Plebiscito
- See the Diego Maradona murals in Quartieri Spagnoli
- Try pastries like sfogliatella and fiocco di neve
Explore the Historic Center
Naples’ Centro Storico is one of the oldest continuously inhabited urban areas in the world and it shows in the best way possible. A tangled maze of narrow alleys, Renaissance facades, ancient Greek foundations, and overflowing balconies, it’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site it’s the city’s soul.
I spent hours wandering Spaccanapoli, the iconic straight street that slices through the heart of the old town. This is where Naples feels most alive scooters zigzag past families walking to Mass, street performers echo through stone courtyards, and the smell of espresso and frying dough seems to hang in the air permanently.
Some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- Sansevero Chapel: Home to the famous Veiled Christ sculpture by Giuseppe Sanmartino. The details are surreal you can see the folds of the marble veil as if it were actual cloth. The chapel also has eerie anatomical models in the basement that I wasn’t expecting, but couldn’t look away from.
- Santa Chiara Monastery: A peaceful cloister hidden behind the city’s noise. Its majolica-tiled columns and benches feel like an art garden and offer a beautiful break from the bustle outside.
- San Domenico Maggiore: This church blew me away with its high ceilings and ornate gold altars. It’s quiet, often empty, and filled with centuries of art.
- Via dei Tribunali: Another historic street full of bakeries, tiny bars, and artisan shops. I found a vintage postcard stand here that made the perfect souvenir.
- Piazza San Gaetano: A small but beautiful square that’s perfect for people-watching and surrounded by archaeological layers Greek walls beneath the modern buildings!
Don’t rush this part of the city. Let yourself get lost. I found that every detour led to something unexpected an open church door, a mural of Maradona, or a shop selling handmade nativity figures.
Pizza, Pastries & What to Eat
Naples isn’t just the birthplace of pizza it’s a culinary pilgrimage. The food here is bold, simple, and unforgettable. I came with high expectations and still left obsessed. Here’s how I ate my way through the city:
Best Pizza in Naples
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – This place is as old-school as it gets: no frills, just two choices (margherita or marinara), and a cult following. I waited over 45 minutes but it was honestly the best €5 I spent in Italy. The dough is so soft it melts in your mouth.
- Gino Sorbillo – If you want a little more variety and a buzzy crowd, this is the spot. Their fried pizza (pizza fritta) is a local favorite, and the toppings go beyond traditional.
- Pizzeria di Matteo – Located on Via dei Tribunali, this one’s beloved by locals and known for both pizza and arancini (fried rice balls). I grabbed a slice to-go and ate it on the steps of a nearby church.
What Else to Try
- Poppella – Their fiocco di neve pastry (literally “snowflake”) is a light, cream-filled bun that somehow manages to be rich and airy at the same time. I went twice.
- Pintauro – Home of the sfogliatella, a crispy, layered pastry filled with sweet ricotta or almond cream. There are two kinds: riccia (crispy) and frolla (soft). Try both.
- Cuoppo – A paper cone filled with hot, fried seafood like anchovies, shrimp, and squid, usually served with a slice of lemon. You’ll spot these all over Naples I grabbed mine from a street cart in Quartieri Spagnoli.
- Gran Caffè Gambrinus – Elegant and historic. This café near Piazza del Plebiscito serves traditional Neapolitan espresso, often with a small glass of water. Locals drink it standing at the bar.
- Scaturchio – Famous for babà al rum, a sticky sponge cake soaked in rum syrup. It’s intense, but worth trying at least once.
Bonus Bites
Don’t miss the graffa, a sugar-dusted fried doughnut made with mashed potato in the dough for that extra fluffiness. I found mine near Piazza Garibaldi and ate it warm. It might’ve been better than a croissant (don’t tell France).
Go Underground
Naples might be buzzing above ground, but there’s a whole other world hidden beneath its cobbled streets. Exploring underground Naples was honestly one of the most surprising and fascinating parts of my trip. It felt like peeling back the layers of a city that’s been rebuilt, reshaped, and reused for thousands of years. If you love history, mystery, or just something different, this is a must-do.
Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground)
This guided tour starts in Piazza San Gaetano and takes you beneath the Centro Storico into ancient Greek and Roman aqueducts, secret WWII shelters, and dim tunnels lit only by flickering torches. At one point, we had to squeeze through a narrow passage barely wide enough to turn around I laughed nervously the whole way.
My favorite part? The contrast. Above us was the chaos of modern Naples. Below? Absolute silence. Some rooms had remnants of Roman markets and old cisterns, while others were eerily empty. It gave me chills in the best way.
Tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes there are slippery spots.
- If you’re claustrophobic, there’s a wider alternate route.
- English-speaking tours run throughout the day.
Catacombs of San Gennaro
This sacred underground site is on the quieter side of the city, near the Capodimonte area. It’s less dramatic than Napoli Sotterranea but much older and deeply spiritual. The frescoes are still intact after centuries, and the space feels reverent and peaceful.
The tombs date back to the 2nd century, and you can see early Christian symbols carved into the walls. What really struck me was the simplicity no tourist gimmicks here, just history you can feel.
Don’t miss: The catacombs of San Gaudioso, nearby. They’re smaller but filled with symbolic skulls and eerie artwork.
Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel)
Originally built as a royal escape route in the 1850s, this tunnel system later served as an air raid shelter during WWII and a place to store confiscated vehicles. Now it’s a museum of sorts, with abandoned motorbikes, vintage cars, and war graffiti still intact.
The atmosphere is totally different less archaeological and more cinematic. It gave me flashbacks to war documentaries, especially seeing how families lived underground during the bombings.
Cool detail: You can even book a rafting experience through the water channels on a guided tour. Yes, underground rafting.
LAPIS Museum
Tucked beneath the Basilica della Pietrasanta, the LAPIS Museum combines technology and archaeology to create a truly immersive experience. You get to walk through a Roman cistern with projection mapping that brings the site’s history to life.
The museum covers everything from pagan rituals to WWII bunkers to modern-day restoration. I loved the storytelling here it made the underground feel personal, not just historical.
Tip: Book your tickets online. They limit group size for a quieter experience.
Museums & Cultural Gems
While Naples is famous for street life and food, its museum scene blew me away. There’s something for every type of traveler ancient history lovers, modern art fans, architecture buffs, and even the slightly morbid (you’ll see why below).
Naples National Archaeological Museum (MANN)
If you’re visiting Pompeii or Herculaneum, make this museum your first stop. It holds the most important artifacts from both sites mosaics, statues, frescoes, even everyday Roman household items.
But it’s not just old stuff. There are interactive exhibits, maps showing the city before Vesuvius erupted, and galleries showcasing ancient medical tools, coins, and jewelry. I spent nearly 3 hours here and could’ve stayed longer.
Top Exhibits:
- The Secret Cabinet (closed during some hours): Roman erotic art from Pompeii.
- The Farnese Collection: Massive sculptures, including the Farnese Bull.
- Ancient Maps & Models: Helpful for visualizing how Pompeii looked before the eruption.
Tip: Combine your visit with a Capodimonte ticket they offer combo deals.
Museo Madre
Naples’ contemporary art museum, Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina, is housed in a former 19th-century palace. It’s sleek, creative, and completely different from the city’s baroque flair.
Each floor surprised me some rooms felt playful and bright, others stark and emotional. If you’re into installations, photography, and bold art, you’ll love it here.
Bonus: The rooftop terrace has one of the best panoramic views of Naples.
Museo Cappella Sansevero
Most visitors come here for the Veiled Christ, and rightfully so it’s mind-blowingly lifelike. But what I wasn’t prepared for were the “anatomical machines” downstairs: real skeletons showing preserved veins and arteries, encased in glass like something from a horror film.
This museum isn’t huge, but it packs a punch. I recommend booking in advance they only let in a small number of people at a time.
Fun fact: The chapel and sculptures were commissioned by Prince Raimondo di Sangro, a brilliant and slightly mad scientist with a flair for the occult.
Hidden Art Spaces: Jago Museum & Thomas Dane Gallery
If you want something off the typical tourist trail, check out:
- Jago Museum: Run by the young Neapolitan sculptor Jago, whose marble work feels like Michelangelo meets Instagram.
- Thomas Dane Gallery: A clean, contemporary gallery space inside a noble palazzo. It’s small but curates exhibitions from internationally known artists.
Both are great if you’re craving something fresh and thought-provoking plus they’re usually uncrowded.
Teatro di San Carlo
Stepping into Teatro di San Carlo felt like being transported straight into a royal dream. The lights dimmed, the velvet curtain lifted, and suddenly I was swept into a performance that was just as captivating as the space itself. This isn’t just Europe’s oldest working opera house (dating back to 1737) it’s a true cultural jewel of Naples and a must-visit even if you’re not an opera fan.
What stood out to me wasn’t just the gold-leaf balconies or the massive crystal chandelier (though both are unforgettable), but the sense of grandeur and tradition. I ended up seeing a ballet performance here on a whim, and I was genuinely moved by the talent, the acoustics, and the energy of the crowd which included everything from locals in formalwear to travelers like me soaking it all in.
If you can’t catch a live show, don’t worry daily guided tours walk you through the lavish hall, royal box, and backstage areas. You’ll learn about the theater’s history, famous performers, and its near destruction during World War II.
Tips for Visiting Teatro di San Carlo:
- Buy tickets early online for big-name performances they sell out fast.
- Check for last-minute student or tourist discounts (I got lucky!).
- Dress is smart casual for most performances, but some locals go full glam.
- Arrive early so you can admire the theater’s neoclassical facade and grand staircase.
Whether you’re into opera, ballet, or just beautiful architecture, this place is pure magic.
Neighborhoods I Loved
Naples is a city of contrasts, and you feel that most in its neighborhoods. Each one has its own vibe, rhythm, and charm so I made a point to explore as many as I could during my stay. Here’s what I loved (and what to look for) in each one:
Centro Storico – The Beating Heart of Naples
This is where the city’s soul lives. Every time I stepped into the historic center, I felt like I was diving into another layer of Naples’ 3,000-year story. Expect tight alleys, walls plastered with flyers and graffiti, laundry flapping above your head, and an energy that doesn’t stop.
You’ll find the Duomo di San Gennaro, the Sansevero Chapel, and endless pizza joints here. The streets are chaotic but packed with character perfect for aimless wandering.
Perfect for: First-time visitors, street photographers, foodies, and people who like a bit of beautiful chaos.
Quartieri Spagnoli – Bold, Gritty, & Unapologetically Local
I’ll be honest this neighborhood felt overwhelming at first. But once I slowed down and started exploring, it quickly became one of my favorite places in Naples.
Narrow streets, vibrant street art, scooter-filled corners, kids playing football, and the Maradona murals make it feel like Naples in its rawest form. It’s less touristy and more lived-in but don’t let that intimidate you. The food is amazing (try trattoria da Nennella), the people are warm, and it’s rich with authenticity.
Don’t miss: Via Emanuele de Deo home to the most iconic Maradona shrine, and a surprisingly touching tribute.
Perfect for: Adventurous travelers, football lovers, and those looking for the real, unfiltered Naples.
Chiaia – Chic, Elegant & Waterfront Glam
This upscale district runs along the waterfront and feels like a totally different city. Picture wide boulevards, boutique fashion stores, elegant wine bars, and palm-lined promenades. I went here for a change of pace after a morning in the Centro Storico, and ended up staying for hours.
You’ll find the Villa Comunale park, the beautiful Lungomare seafront walk, and some of Naples’ best seafood restaurants tucked into side streets. I also stopped at Gran Caffè Gambrinus a must-visit for espresso and people-watching.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers needing a calm afternoon, and shoppers.
Vomero – Hilltop Views & Relaxed Vibes
Vomero sits high above the city, and it’s where I went to breathe a little easier. It’s cleaner, quieter, and greener than the rest of Naples, with tree-lined streets, art deco buildings, and a more relaxed pace.
The real reason to visit? The panoramic views from Castel Sant’Elmo and Certosa di San Martino. I took the Funicolare Centrale up and spent the afternoon roaming the fortress, eating gelato, and staring at Vesuvius in the distance.
Other highlights: There’s great shopping on Via Scarlatti, and lots of cozy cafes tucked into quiet corners.
Perfect for: View seekers, families, and anyone craving a break from the bustle.
Let me know if you’d like me to now expand the next sections like Scenic Views, Phlegraean Fields, or Day Trips from Naples!
Scenic Views & Sunsets
If you’re a view-chaser like me, Naples delivers some unforgettable moments. From castles perched high on the hill to quiet waterfront spots, this city knows how to show off. These are the spots where I paused, took a deep breath, and just soaked it all in.
Castel Sant’Elmo
Hands down, the most panoramic spot in Naples. You can reach the hilltop by riding the Funicolare di Montesanto to Morghen Station, then follow signs up a short walk to the castle. The 14th-century fortress itself is striking, with wide-open terraces and a full 360° view over Naples, Mount Vesuvius, the bay, and even the islands of Capri and Ischia on a clear day.
What made this special for me was arriving just before sunset the golden light hit the terracotta rooftops and pastel-colored buildings just right. It’s windy, yes, but bring a jacket and stay until the city lights start to flicker on.
Tip: Your ticket also includes access to rotating art exhibits inside the castle walls.
Certosa di San Martino
Right next to Castel Sant’Elmo is this beautiful former monastery-turned-museum. The Baroque architecture, tranquil cloisters, and intricate frescoes are worth a visit in their own right, but the hidden gem here is the terrace overlooking Naples.
It’s less crowded than the castle and feels more meditative. I sat under a shady archway for almost an hour with just the sound of birds and a view of the bay stretching endlessly below.
Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for peace and near-private views.
Belvedere San Martino
Just a short walk from both Sant’Elmo and the Certosa is this quiet overlook that’s surprisingly off the radar for most tourists. There’s no ticket or queue just a simple railing with a postcard-perfect view. It’s one of those places where locals bring their dogs, kids eat gelato, and lovers watch the sky turn pink.
If you’re looking for that perfect Naples photo (city skyline, Vesuvius in the distance, terracotta rooftops), this is where I got mine.
Castel dell’Ovo
Unlike the hilltop viewpoints, Castel dell’Ovo is right at sea level, perched on a small peninsula that juts into the Bay of Naples. It’s free to enter and climb, and from the top you get views of the coastline, Mount Vesuvius, and the lively Lungomare promenade.
I went early in the morning and had the castle almost to myself, then came back at golden hour for a totally different vibe musicians playing along the marina, couples strolling arm in arm, the water glowing with sunset reflections.
Bonus: There are excellent seafood restaurants nearby. I ended my day with grilled octopus and a view of the castle lit up at night.
Metro Art Stations
Who knew a metro ride could turn into an art tour? Naples is known for its Stazioni dell’Arte a city-wide public art project that transformed several of its subway stations into full-on design showcases.
Even if you’re not commuting, I highly recommend buying a metro pass and hopping on the Line 1 loop just to explore these creative underground gems.
Toledo Station
Voted one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world, and you’ll see why immediately. The theme is water, and the deep blue mosaics, mirrored ceilings, and fiber-optic lights create a dreamy, almost underwater atmosphere. It honestly felt like I had walked into a surrealist painting.
I found myself lingering here long after my train had arrived just taking it all in.
Università Station
In contrast to Toledo’s aquatic vibe, Università is bright, bold, and futuristic. Hot pinks, turquoise tiles, sleek typography, and interactive sculptures line the station. It’s a fun, playful space designed by Karim Rashid that makes you feel like you’re in a sci-fi film.
Perfect for quirky Instagram shots!
Museo Station
This stop connects to the Archaeological Museum, and the design reflects that beautifully. Fragments of ancient statues, marble columns, and museum-like lighting create a quiet, respectful tone that contrasts with the others. It felt like a gentle transition between ancient Naples and modern movement.
Tips for Visiting Metro Art Stations:
- Most art stations are on Metro Line 1.
- A single ticket costs just €1.30 and is valid for 90 minutes.
- Visit during off-peak hours (10 AM–4 PM) for less crowding and better photo ops.
- Bring a wide-angle lens if you can you’ll want it.
Mount Vesuvius & Phlegraean Fields
Mount Vesuvius
This sleeping volcano is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world and seeing it up close is a powerful experience. I took a bus from Ercolano Scavi up the winding roads of Vesuvius National Park. From the parking area, it’s about a 30-minute uphill walk to reach the crater.
It’s dusty, windy, and the incline is no joke but the views at the top are worth every step. The massive crater smokes lightly and feels ancient and alive at the same time. And behind you? Sweeping vistas of Naples, the Bay, and even Capri in the distance.
Tips:
- Bring water, sunscreen, and layers it gets hot and windy.
- Wear hiking shoes or trail sneakers some parts are rocky.
- Entry to the crater must be booked online in advance (they time entry slots).
Phlegraean Fields (Campi Flegrei)
If you’re craving something more offbeat and less crowded than Vesuvius, head west to the Phlegraean Fields a sprawling supervolcano with boiling craters, ancient ruins, and hidden legends.
I explored the Solfatara Crater, where steam vents hiss and the ground literally bubbles with sulfur. It smells like eggs (fair warning!), but it’s incredibly cool. The earth feels alive here like it’s breathing under your feet.
The nearby town of Pozzuoli has even more to offer:
- Temple of Serapis – Roman ruins that show how the land has risen and fallen due to volcanic activity.
- Flavian Amphitheater – The third-largest in Italy, and hauntingly beautiful.
- Lake Avernus – Said to be the mythological entrance to the underworld!
Getting There:
- Take the Cumana train from Montesanto to Pozzuoli (about 30 mins).
- Some tours combine Solfatara with vineyard visits and tastings from volcanic soil.
Day Trips from Naples
- Pompeii – Reserve a ticket ahead and wear comfy shoes.
- Herculaneum – Smaller but better preserved than Pompeii.
- Capri – Glamorous and beautiful. Don’t miss the boat ride around the island.
- Procida – Colorful houses, relaxed vibe, great for a quieter escape.
- Sorrento – Sweet shops and sea views.
- Amalfi Coast – It’s a long day but so worth it.
The Spirit of Maradona
In Naples, Diego Maradona isn’t just a football player he’s a legend. You’ll find murals, shrines, and even cafes named after him across Quartieri Spagnoli.
If you’re a football fan, check out Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, especially after Napoli’s recent championship wins.
Practical Tips
- When to Go: Spring (April–June) and fall (Sept–Oct) are ideal.
- Safety: I felt safe, but keep an eye on bags in crowded spots.
- Cash & Cards: Many local places still prefer cash.
- Tipping: Not required, but rounding up is polite.
- Language: English is spoken in tourist areas, but a few Italian phrases go a long way.
FAQs About Naples
Is Naples safe to visit?
Yes! It’s a busy city, so just use common sense. I stayed aware, especially in the metro and crowds, and felt fine.
How many days do you need in Naples?
At least two full days. I’d recommend three if you want to include a day trip.
Is Naples worth visiting or should I skip it for the Amalfi Coast?
Definitely worth visiting. It has soul, flavor, and layers you won’t find anywhere else in Italy.
What’s the best pizza place in Naples?
I loved L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, but honestly pizza is good almost everywhere.
Final Thoughts
Naples felt real in a way I wasn’t expecting. It’s raw and radiant, rough and refined. It’s the kind of place that gets under your skin fast. I came for the pizza and stayed for the energy.
If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, don’t just pass through Naples. Give it a few days you won’t regret it.