Naples took me by surprise. I came for the pizza, stayed for the views, and left with a memory card full of crumbling palazzos, Vesuvius sunrises, and espresso-fueled mornings that felt like scenes from a film. If you’re planning a southern Italy itinerary, Naples isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination full of character, contradictions, and layers of history you can actually walk on.
From wandering through chaotic alleys and underground catacombs to escaping into quiet cloisters and enjoying the best sfogliatella of your life, this city rewards those who stay a while and look a little deeper.
Here’s everything I loved doing—and what I think you shouldn’t miss.
🍕 1. Eat Pizza Where It All Began
Let’s start with the obvious: Naples is the birthplace of pizza. And yes, the hype is real. Whether you’re waiting outside L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele with the locals or tucked inside Sorbillo for a margherita straight from the wood-fired oven, every bite is a revelation.
Tip: Order the classic margherita. In Naples, simplicity sings.
🏛 2. Visit the Ruins of Pompeii (or Herculaneum)
Just a short train ride from the city center, Pompeii is an open-air time capsule frozen in volcanic ash. But if you want something quieter and better preserved, head to Herculaneum. I found it easier to navigate and just as haunting.
What surprised me: You can still see original frescoes, mosaic floors, and even carbonized loaves of bread.
🏞 3. Climb Mount Vesuvius for Panoramic Views
I didn’t expect to hike up a volcano on this trip, but I’m so glad I did. Mount Vesuvius looms in the distance no matter where you are in Naples—and standing on its rim feels surreal. The hike is short but steep, and the views stretch across the Bay of Naples.
Go early: Mornings are cooler and clearer for photos.
🖼 4. Tour the Naples National Archaeological Museum
If you’re a history lover, this museum is non-negotiable. The Naples Archaeological Museum houses one of the most impressive collections of Roman and Greek artifacts in the world—including many original pieces from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
I could’ve spent hours just admiring the mosaics alone.
⛪️ 5. Explore the Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)
Beneath the city’s modern chaos lies a secret world of ancient tunnels, aqueducts, and catacombs. I booked a guided tour and wandered 40 meters below the surface, walking along Roman roads and candle-lit chambers.
Not for the claustrophobic, but definitely one of the coolest things I’ve ever done underground.
🏰 6. Watch the Sunset at Castel dell’Ovo
Of the three castles in Naples, Castel dell’Ovo was my favorite—not just because it’s free, but because it sits right on the sea. I grabbed a gelato from the promenade and climbed up to the top for an uninterrupted view of the sunset over the bay.
It’s romantic, low-key, and usually less crowded than you’d expect.
🧁 7. Try Traditional Pastries at a Historic Cafe
Naples is just as famous for its pastries as it is for its pizza. I fell hard for sfogliatella—a crispy, layered shell filled with sweet ricotta and citrus zest. My favorite spots?
- Scaturchio in Piazza San Domenico
- Pintauro, one of the oldest pastry shops in the city
And don’t skip the espresso—it’s short, strong, and usually costs less than €1.
🎭 8. See a Show at Teatro di San Carlo
Italy’s oldest opera house, Teatro di San Carlo, is a masterpiece of red velvet, chandeliers, and gold balconies. I didn’t plan on seeing a performance, but I lucked into last-minute ballet tickets—and it was magic.
You can also tour the theater during the day if shows aren’t running.
🧭 9. Stroll Spaccanapoli and the Historic Center
The Centro Storico is where Naples reveals its heart. Tiny alleys lined with laundry and scooters open into sunlit piazzas and hidden churches. I spent hours just walking Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that slices through the historic center.
Highlights:
- Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo (Baroque on the outside, mysterious inside)
- Santa Chiara Cloister (a peaceful oasis of tiled columns and lemon trees)
- Random street musicians and locals shouting out of windows
🌊 10. Take a Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast or Capri
Naples is perfectly placed for coastal adventures. From Molo Beverello, you can hop on a ferry to Capri, Ischia, or Sorrento. I did a last-minute boat ride to Capri, rented a scooter, and explored cliffside views, lemon groves, and tiny beaches.
Travel tip: Capri can feel exclusive, but it’s still worth visiting—even if just for the ferry ride across the turquoise sea.
My Favorite Hidden Finds in Naples
- Via dei Tribunali: Best food street in the city
- Lungomare Caracciolo: Seaside walk with epic views of Vesuvius
- Pignasecca Market: Authentic local flavors and street snacks
- Cimitero delle Fontanelle: A haunting cave cemetery that locals still visit to “adopt” skulls
Travel Tips for Naples
- Stay central: The Spanish Quarter or Centro Storico gives you walking access to everything.
- Use the metro: Surprisingly clean and efficient, with some artistic stations worth seeing.
- Expect chaos: Traffic is wild, and things don’t always run on time—but that’s Naples charm.
- Be cautious, not paranoid: Petty theft exists, but I felt safe overall by keeping my bag in front and avoiding empty streets at night.
Conclusion: Why Naples Stole My Heart
Naples doesn’t try to impress you with perfection—it wins you over with flavor, grit, and honesty. It’s loud, layered, and full of life. And it just might be my favorite city in Italy.
If you’re curious, hungry, and looking for an adventure that feels real, Naples is waiting.
FAQs About Visiting Naples, Italy
Is Naples safe for tourists?
Yes, but like any big city, be street-smart. Stick to well-lit areas at night and keep an eye on valuables.
What is Naples best known for?
Pizza, Vesuvius, archaeological sites, and its raw, authentic vibe.
How many days do you need in Naples?
Three full days is a great start—more if you want to explore day trips like Pompeii or Capri.
Can you visit Pompeii from Naples in a day?
Absolutely. It’s about 30 minutes by train and easy to do as a half-day trip.
Is Naples worth visiting or should I go straight to Amalfi?
Don’t skip it. Naples has a soul that coastal towns don’t—and it’ll change how you see Italy.