The complete Naples guide

The Naples Guide provides valuable information on the city’s history, attractions, dining, and more, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors.

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If you plan a trip to Naples, the biggest city in Southern Italy (and the third biggest after Rome and Milan in Italy overall)), there’s much to learn about this beautiful and historic city. Naples has a rich history and lies in a lovely area overlooking the Gulf of Naples. It’s the capital of the Campania region and the metropolitan city of Naples. The town extends from the slopes of Vesuvius to the Phlegraean Fields and is full of famous streets and monuments that are known worldwide.

When planning your trip, it’s essential to consider when to go and how to move and arrive. You can visit Naples all year round, but the best time is spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. You can come by plane, train, or car.

The food in Naples is also a must-try. The city is famous for its pizza, pasta, and seafood dishes. There are many restaurants and cafes to choose from, and you can find some of the best Italian food in Naples.

Naples has no shortage of options regarding things to do and places to visit. Some must-see attractions include the historical center, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the Castel dell’Ovo. You can also visit the nearby Pompeii ruins or the stunning Amalfi Coast.

Overall, Naples is a beautiful and fascinating city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, there’s something for everyone in Naples.

Go there if you like: museums, monuments, the sea, typical cuisine.

For how long: three days

The best time to visit is all year round.

Where is Naples

Naples is a stunning city in the Italian Peninsula’s center-south. Its favorable position and mild climate make it a popular destination for local and international tourists, who flock to the capital of Campania to enjoy its beautiful sunny days even in the winter months. The city offers a wealth of incredible attractions and stunning natural wonders that will leave visitors in awe. However, it’s worth noting that Naples is also one of the most endangered cities in Italy due to its proximity to the active volcano, Vesuvius. Despite this, Naples continues to be a central hub of tourist activity, drawing visitors from far and wide to experience all it has to offer.

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Naples Guide -most famous attractions

Naples is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. The Maschio Angioino Castle is a must-see attraction representing art, beauty, and tourism. You can also explore the city’s many religious buildings, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Monastery of Santa Chiara. The Cathedral is especially famous for its traditional rite of the dissolution of the blood of San Gennaro. Remember to check out the beautiful maiolica decoration at the Monastery of Santa Chiara. With so many sights to see, Naples is a great destination for travelers looking for a beautiful landscape setting and excellent recreation opportunities.

Note: For more information, check out our related article about what to see in Naples.

Naples is truly a city of culture, offering a variety of cultural buildings that are worth visiting. For example, the Capodimont Museum is located in the Royal Palace of Capodimonte and displays a diverse collection of artwork. The National Museum of San Martino is another excellent option, offering stunning city views from its location on the Vomerese hill. Additionally, it boasts a rich cartographic collection and some impressive nativity scenes. Lastly, the National Archaeological Museum is home to an exceptional collection that sheds light on the origins of civilization, including the Farnese collection, mosaics, and artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Finally, Castel dell’Ovo is a must-visit attraction for many tourists due to its position on the sea and its fascinating origins linked to a legend.

Naples truly is a city of culture, offering a variety of cultural buildings that are worth visiting. The Capodimont Museum is located in the Royal Palace of Capodimonte and displays a diverse collection of artwork. The National Museum of San Martino is another excellent option, offering stunning city views from its location on the Vomerese hill. Additionally, it boasts a rich cartographic collection and some impressive nativity scenes. Lastly, the National Archaeological Museum is home to an exceptional collection that sheds light on the origins of civilization, including the Farnese collection, mosaics, and artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

If you want to explore Naples, visit Piazza del Plebiscito. The square hosted diverse events named after the Plebiscite that united the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies with Piedmont of the Savoy. The grand seventeenth-century Royal Palace, built in honor of the King of Spain, is home to splendid eighteenth-century decorations.

Suppose you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the beautiful Gulf of Naples. In that case, we recommend a mini cruise to the Campania Archipelago. It will allow you to discover some stunning islands like Capri, Procida, and Ischia. If you want something more peaceful and green, visit the Villa Comunale or the Parco Virgiliano. These locations are perfect for those who enjoy physical activities in the open air and desire a serene environment. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of the sea, Mergellina is a fantastic port to visit, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf, with Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Islands in the background. It’s an ideal place for all Instagram lovers who want to capture stunning shots.

If you’re interested in exploring the rich history of Naples, we highly recommend visiting the Underground Naples. This unique attraction takes you 40 meters below ground, allowing you to walk through the city’s history from every era. Additionally, check out the Pompeii excavations. This site offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history.

Note: Please check out our related article for more information about what to see or do in Naples.

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How to get to Naples

If you’re planning a trip to Naples, there are a few ways to get there. Flying or taking the train are the most common options, but you can also arrive by cruise ship. It depends on your preferences and budget. Do some research and choose the best way to travel to southern Italy! And once you’re there, remember to explore the rich history of Naples by visiting the Underground Naples and the Pompeii excavations.

Note: Please find out the best deals for flights here and the best deals for trains and buses here.

How to get to Naples by Plane

Napoli Capodichino, one of Italy’s biggest airports, is less than 30 minutes from the city center. It offers direct flights to major European cities and New York. Alitalia and Lufthansa operate routes out of Naples that connect to destinations across the globe.

You can reach the city center by taxi (fares are around EUR 20) or by using the Alibus from the Naples airport.
You can reach Sorrento from the Naples airport via the Curreri Bus.

If you are flying into Rome, you can take a high-speed train directly to Naples.

How to Get to Naples by Train from the Rome Aiport

Take the Leonardo Express airport train to Rome Termini, then connect to a high-speed train to Naples. Budget airlines land at Rome Ciampino Airport. Take an airport shuttle to Rome Termini, then click on a high-speed train to Naples.

Note: Please find out the best deals for flights here and the best deals for trains and buses here.

Trains

The quickest and most straightforward route would be Trenitalia or Italo high-speed trains. Both train companies offer similar services, so you can choose whichever best suits your budget and timetable.

It takes approximately four hours to get to Naples from Milan, three hours from Florence, and over an hour from Rome. If you book in advance, you can find discounted tickets, which are generally non-refundable and cannot be changed. Therefore, if you miss your train or your travel plans change, you won’t be able to get a refund. It’s essential to consider this when booking, particularly if you’ll be connecting from another train or flight that may be delayed. However, you can always purchase tickets at the station or online through the train company’s website or app until a few minutes before departure. Plenty of trains are arriving in Naples every hour, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a seat.

You can take the Circumvesuviana train between the two cities to reach Sorrento from Naples. This train is on the lower level of Napoli Centrale station, also called Napoli Piazza Garibaldi. Additionally, metro lines 1 and 2 have stops on this level. It’s important to note that the Naples train station is safe and guarded by security officers 24 hours a day. Still, it would be best to exercise caution in the surrounding neighborhood late at night.

Note: Check out this link to get valuable deals on public transport tickets. You can also check out prices and timetables and reserve your tickets in advance via Trenitalia.

Note: Please find out the best deals for trains and buses here.

How to get from the airport to the center

By bus: The Alibus shuttle, managed by ANM (Associazione Napoletana Mobilità), is a fast connection line between the airport, the railway station (15 minutes), the city center, and the port (35 minutes). It departs about every 20 minutes and operates from 6.30 am to midnight. The ticket price is 3 Euro.

By car: The airport can be reached from the Naples ring road by taking the “Capodichino” exit or accessing Viale Umberto Maddalena.

By taxi: the cost of a ride from Capodichino airport to the city center varies from 16 to 23 euros.

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Where do cruise ships dock in Naples, Italy?

The cruise ships docking in Naples will dock at one at Molo Beverello. The Molo Beverello is located in the heart of the city and is within walking distance of many attractions, including the Royal Palace, Piazza del Plebiscito, and the historical center. You can easily visit the Naples city center by walking.

It also connects major Italian ports and islands like Capri, Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast. I appreciate the list of companies that operate there, including Alilauro, Caremar, Med Mar, Metro del Mar, Siremar, Navigazione Libera del Golfo, Snav, and Tirrenia. Thanks for sharing!

How to get around Naples

It’s good to know that there are various options for moving around the city center, from the expanding subway system to buses, trams, and funiculars. ANM transport lines, lines 1 and 6, and the funiculars of Chiaia, Montesanto, Centrale, and Mergellina. We’ll also keep in mind the lines managed by Trenitalia SpA and the Regional metropolitan system of the EAV group. If you need more time, the City Sightseeing tourist bus is a great option for seeing the main sights.

Why should you visit it?

Naples is a lively city all year round, with a Mediterranean climate that brings short and mild winters and scorching summers. But don’t worry, the heat is easily bearable, and in extreme cases, you can constantly refresh yourself in the sea. As we stated before, every time of year is suitable for a trip to the city.

Aside from its historical monuments, streets, and squares, Naples charms its tourists with its culinary tradition. Neapolitan cuisine represents one of the symbols of Made in Italy. It’s a balanced cuisine offering land and sea dishes, divided into “aristocratic” and “poor cuisine.” Rich dishes like timbales and sartù characterize aristocratic cuisine. In contrast, “poor cuisine” is linked to ingredients like pasta, renowned for Gragnano and Sammarzano.

We highly recommend trying essential dairy products like ricotta and buffalo mozzarella and delicious fish dishes like anchovies, cuttlefish, squid, cod, mussels, razor clams, and sea bass. Try the famous pasta and beans, macaroni omelet, gnocchi alla sorrentina, spaghetti with clams, fried fish, eggplant in a boat, potato gatò, and casatiello. And don’t forget to save room for famous desserts like sfogliatelle, babà, pastiera, struffoli, and roccocò. A cup of coffee and a shot of limoncello are a must to end the meal.

In Naples, excellent food is everywhere, especially in the historic center’s medieval streets. For a more romantic dining experience, check out the seafront area or the regions of Chiaia, Vomero, and Posillipo. You will be pleased with the affordable prices and excellent value for money.

For the events

Naples is a fantastic city, with many thrilling events and festivals throughout the year. While summer is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy the many outdoor events, it can get crowded. However, it’s an excellent time to visit if crowds don’t bother you. Alternatively, spring and autumn are also great seasons to visit, particularly in November when the weather is mild and all activities are open. Moreover, religious festivals such as Holy Week, Easter, Christmas, and the feast of San Gennaro are truly incredible experiences to witness. Thank you for sharing this valuable information about Naples.

For those traveling with children

Spring and autumn are the most suitable seasons for traveling with young children to visit the city. Avoid summer due to high temperatures and intense sun.

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For the surroundings

If you are interested in cultural tourism, we recommend exploring the picturesque areas surrounding Naples or the most exquisite destinations in Campania during the spring and autumn seasons. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and all activities are available, making it an opportune moment to immerse oneself in the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Note: You can also check our related articles about what to see around Naples and in Naples.

For shopping

The experience of Christmas shopping is truly unique, especially when you wander through the lively streets of San Gregorio Armeno and immerse yourself in the city’s festive spirit. It’s a unique opportunity to appreciate the traditional and artisanal aspects of the holiday season and fully embrace the joy it brings. Thank you for sharing such a fantastic idea!

Note: Be patient and keep an eye on your wallet. The idyll could be interrupted by an incredible crowd of people and unpleasant muggings.

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What is the best area to stay in Naples?

Take a glance at the best neighborhoods in Napoli for staying.

Chiaia — For a safe and upscale experience, you might consider staying in a sophisticated upper-class neighborhood in Naples. This area offers high-end shopping and excellent ocean views to make your stay memorable.
Vomero — If you’re looking for a stylish and lively area to explore in Naples, Vomero is an excellent choice. It is situated on a hill and offers stunning panoramic views of the city center, the Gulf of Naples, and the majestic Vesuvius mountain looming in the distance. Although prices may be slightly higher than in other parts of the city, the neighborhood is a hub of creativity and entertainment, with plenty of exciting nightlife options.
Spanish Quarters—This pedestrian area offers tasty street food and affordable lodging. Experience the city like a local and save money on your trip, making it best for budget travel.

Naples Historical Center is one of the best areas for first-time visitors. It’s a safe and convenient location with plenty of attractions to explore. Plus, you can save money on your trip by indulging in the area’s delicious street food and affordable lodging options.
Piazza del Plebiscito — Are you looking for a safe and family-friendly area to stay in during your trip? Consider the pedestrian area near the Duomo di San Gennaro. This location is within walking distance of top attractions and offers plenty of affordable lodging options. Plus, you can indulge in delicious street food without breaking the bank.
Posillipo—Looking for a tranquil and scenic neighborhood to stay in during your trip? Check out the historic area, which features 1st-century BC Roman ruins and a sprawling park with breathtaking coastal vistas. It’s the perfect place for an upper-class experience.
Port of Naples—This neighborhood is the perfect option for those entering or leaving the city by boat or planning on visiting nearby islands and the Amalfi coast by ferry. It offers a tranquil and scenic environment with 1st-century BC Roman ruins and a sprawling park that boasts breathtaking coastal vistas. It’s a great place to relax and appreciate the region’s beauty.
Nearby Sorrento—If you plan to discover Naples’ surroundings, such as the island, Amalfi Coast, etc., choose this lovely town a few kilometers from Naples.

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Note: If you identify as LGBTQ+, we suggest looking at our Naples Gay Guide.

Naples Guide -Grand Hotel Vesuvius

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What is the cost of a hotel in Naples?

Are you looking for affordable accommodations in Naples? You’re in luck! Compared to other destinations, Naples has reasonable prices. You can find a clean guesthouse for as little as 75 euros per night or a more luxurious hotel with an ocean view at around 150 euros. Check out my top picks for places to stay, categorized by type and budget. Remember to read reviews and consider your needs before booking.

Safety – When planning your trip to the city, it’s essential to remember that while it is generally a safe destination for tourists, some areas are still more unsafe than others. The Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood and the area around the Central Railway Station are two places where you should exercise caution and keep a close eye on your belongings. Suppose you’re traveling alone or at night. In that case, it’s probably best to avoid booking a hotel in these areas and opt for a safer location. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the city.

Accommodation—For a unique stay in the city, consider highly rated B&Bs. Research and take precautions to ensure a memorable stay.

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Naples Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Naples is cheaper than cities like Rome or Florence, but it’s still easy to overspend on food and activities. Here are some tips to save money in Naples:

Eat on the cheap: One way to save money while exploring Naples is by trying their famous pizza or grabbing a sandwich. Not only is pizza a must-try in Naples, but it’s also an affordable option that won’t hurt your wallet.
Get the Visitalia Tourist Card Napoli: If you plan on doing lots of sightseeing in Naples, consider getting a tourist card that offers discounts on top museums, tours, and attractions. The card will save you money compared to buying separate tickets, including free public transportation. Another way to save money is to buy a great bottle of wine at the store instead of going to a bar. You’ll find that it’s a lot cheaper and just as enjoyable.
Stay with a local: If you’re planning a trip to Italy and looking to save money on accommodation, consider Couchsurfing. Even hostels can be expensive in Italy, but with Couchsurfing, you can stay with locals with extra beds or couches for free. It saves you money and lets you connect with locals who can share their tips and advice on the best things to see and do in the area. Just send your requests early to ensure you have a place to stay.
Go on a free walking tour: When visiting Italy, it’s a great idea to take advantage of free walking tours like those offered by Free Walking Tour Napoli. These tours are great for learning about the area’s history and highlights. Just remember to tip your guide for their hard work! Remember to bring a reusable water bottle like those made by LifeStraw to save money and help reduce plastic waste. Tap water is safe in Italy, so you can rely on your bottle to provide clean and safe drinking water throughout your trip.

The Complete Naples Guide – FAQs

Is Naples safe to travel alone?

Naples is generally safe for backpackers and travelers. However, pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure, and always stay vigilant. Solo female travelers should take standard precautions. Purchase travel insurance to cover illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.:

Is Naples a cheap city?

Due to Southern Italy’s lower wealth, you can find much lower prices in Naples compared to Rome, Florence, and Venice. Consequently, you will find more affordable accommodation, food, and tourist attractions there.

How many days do you need in Naples?

We highly recommend spending at least three days and two nights in Naples. It will allow you to fully experience and enjoy the city relaxed. There is so much to see and do in Naples, and taking your time will ensure you don’t miss out on any fantastic sights and experiences the city offers. Trust us. You won’t regret spending a little extra time in Naples!

Naples Guide – Final wording

Naples is often (and unfortunately) viewed as a stopover on the way to more luxurious destinations like the Amalfi Coast or Capri. If you travel from Naples to Positano, you can only stay one night. However, we recommend more days. It is chaotic and, in some places, dirty, but at the same time, it is authentic and lovely. That’s why we are confident it won’t disappoint you.

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