Planning for a trip can be overwhelming, especially for a big one. To help you out, we’ve got your back with this Naples guide. We want you to be well-prepared for your visit, so we’ve included all the essential information you need. We hope you find it (our Top Things to Know before visiting Naples article) helpful and informative. So, let’s dive right in!
One of the Top things to know before visiting Naples is for sure its beating heart – the 2.700 years old street Spaccanapoli.
© Massimo Borchi
A short introduction to Top Things to know before visiting Naples article
Get essential insights for your trip to the city with our helpful Naples guide. Discover the city’s history, food, accommodation, day trips, and transportation. Don’t miss exploring the city center and trying its famous pizza. Use Naples as a base to explore nearby Vesuvius or Pompeii or discover the treasures within the town.
The charming streets of Naples’ historic center are bustling with life. You’ll see laundry hanging from apartment buildings while scooters zoom in and out of foot traffic, sometimes honking in a hurry. The locals have a unique way of life where shopping, walking, driving, eating, and living blend seamlessly within a small area. Naples has a captivating history dating back to the ancient Greeks and stands out from other Italian cities. When visiting, especially if you’ve been to Italy before, you’ll be delighted by the exceptional food, distinct architecture, and warm locals who are more welcoming to tourists than those in other major Italian cities.
That is why this Naples guide will help you to navigate through many layers of Naples (literally). Navigating the spirit and chaos of Naples can be an exciting experience, yet knowing where to focus attention can enrich it.
Discover the Catacombs of San Gennaro over the more chaotic Naples Underground and what you need to know about safety in Naples.
Based on our comprehensive research, this guide guides you through many layers of Naples’ appeals. From savoring pizza to strolling historic lanes, prepare to discover the wonders of visiting Naples, Italy. So let’s learn the Top things to know before visiting Naples together.
Top things to know before visiting Naples – Capodimonte park – ex royal park with the ex royal palace
©napolike.com
The Top Things to know before visiting Naples, Italy
As soon as you arrive in Naples, you’ll be greeted by an explosion of sensations. You’ll first notice the medley of sounds – a beautiful symphony of Italian chatter, whirring engines, car horns, and the clinking of tires on well-worn cobblestones. It all blends to create a lovely yet chaotic melody.
While Naples’ historically grand buildings may now show signs of wear and tear, with faded facades and peeling paint, the city’s charm remains. Balconies are often decorated with colorful laundry, and the narrow alleyways are alive with neighbors chatting.
As a heavily populated city, many of Naples’ inhabitants live in cozy apartments. This often leads to life spilling out onto the streets and, occasionally, a bit of litter. Although the local government is working to improve the situation, visitors should still expect to see some trash around bins.
Between the 1990s and 2010s, the Camorra (the Campania branch of the Mafia) infiltrated the waste management industry, causing a rubbish crisis in Naples. However, the government has regained control and made significant progress. Nonetheless, some degree of litter may still be visible in certain areas.
Naples is really unlike any other city in Italy.
While the north might be known for being cleaner, Naples is full of life and energy, like the big cities down south. What makes Naples stand out is its unique history. It’s been around for thousands of years, and it’s had a lot of different groups ruling over it, like the Greeks, Romans, Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, and Normans. In 1266, Naples became part of the Kingdom of Sicily and played a massive role in the Italian Renaissance in the 15th century. Many famous artists like Caravaggio and Bernini got their start in Naples. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the most fascinating.
© figurniysergey.com
It lies near an active volcano.
The next thing we want to stress in our Naples guide is its vicinity to the dangerous volcano.
Nestled near the magnificent Mount Vesuvius, Naples is a city that has withstood the test of time. Over 3 million people call the region home despite past eruptions, and the volcano is constantly monitored and studied. Currently in a state of “active rest,” visitors can explore the breathtaking trails of Vesuvius National Park and even venture to the top of the crater. Standing at 1,127 m at its highest point, with a circumference of 450 m and a height of 300 m, Vesuvius is a true wonder of nature. Formed by the combination of two cones, the older Mount Somma cone on the outside and the younger Vesuvius internal cone, this 400,000-year-old volcano is a testament to the power and beauty of the natural world.
Vesuvius is home to some of the most fertile soils around, which makes it perfect for growing all sorts of delicious food. The vineyards and orchards that blanket its slopes are responsible for producing some of the most sought-after wines out there, including the famous “Tears of Christ” vintage. Unfortunately, Vesuvius caused much damage when it erupted in 79AD, with Pompeii bearing the brunt of the disaster. On the other hand, Herculaneum fared a bit better, and many people could escape before it was too late.
The second phase of the eruption was horrifically fatal. Pyroclastic flows seeped from the crater with intense speed and velocity. Pompeii was covered with ash 4-6 meters deep, whereas Herculaneum was buried under 25 m.
Today, visitors can walk the streets of ancient Romans once did and marvel at fast-food outlets, sporting arenas, public baths, brothels, places of worship and gathering, and private homes, some with vivid frescos and mosaic floors. Archaeologists remain at work, and there are still regular discoveries.
The best-preserved ruins are in Herculaneum. Under its 25-meter covering of ash, it found better protection against the march of time, along with the fact that the upper floors of PoPompeii’suildings did not survive the barrage of volcanic rock in phase one of the eruption, so more Herculaneum remains intact.
Naples Guide: Naples underground – ancient city hidden below the modern city.
©leisure-italy.com
It is home to an ancient underground system consisting of caverns and catacombs.
The region of Naples is situated on a remarkable natural resource, tuff rock. The Greeks were among the first to extract this rock in significant quantities, mainly to construct city walls, temples, and underground tombs. As a result of the mining process, there are impressive underground caverns that the Romans cleverly repurposed into aqueducts to supply water to Naples. Over time, these aqueducts expanded into a massive network 450 km beneath Naples.
Furthermore, there are three awe-inspiring catacombs in Naples, with the largest being the Catacombs of San Genaro, which hold the remains of the patron saints of Naples. The catacombs cover an area of about 5600 square meters and contain approximately 2000 burial recesses, 500 sarcophagi within wall niches, and some splendid frescoes from the 5th and 6th centuries. Hence, we highly recommend that you visit this site.
History and culture lovers fall in love with Naples.
The following top thing in our Naples guide tourists usually neglect. But if you’re a history lover, you’ll want to check it out! This city has a fascinating past; there’s so much to learn about it. One of the most incredible things you can see is the ancient cave system beneath Naples. You can still see the marks left by Greek slaves who chiseled away at the tuff rock thousands of years ago. To get the whole experience, you can book a guided tour with Naples Underground in your preferred language. And if you’re interested in seeing some of the original city walls from the 4th century BC, head over to Piazza Bellini!
Naples is a city that is steeped in history and has a plethora of captivating attractions. The catacomb systems have undergone renovation and are now open to tourists, providing them opportunities to contribute to social initiatives. The National Archaeological Museum is well-known for its collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, while the Royal Palace and Capodimonte Museum exhibit the Bourbons’ art collection. You cannot miss the chance to see The Veiled Christ sculpture, carved with exquisite delicacy. It is advisable to get your tickets in advance for this must-see attraction.
Naples is safe for tourists.
Is Naples safe for tourists? Is this truly one of the Top things to know before visiting Naples? Well, we can assure you it is. So, let’s find it more.
Naples is often associated with the Mafia, but this stereotype is unfair. The city has made progress in shedding its reputation for crime and corruption. While the Camorra still operates, it is not a significant tourist concern. The main problem is pickpocketing, so it’s best to keep your belongings secure and avoid wearing anything flashy.
Naples can be safe for tourists if they follow safety guidelines. The locals are friendly and helpful, but there may be language barriers. Stick to well-lit areas at night around Garibaldi train station. Neapolitans take pride in their city and are interested in knowing about your visit.
Note: Read our guide about Safe traveling if you want to learn more about safety and travel scams. That way, you will be even more prepared before starting your journey.
We’ve been lucky to visit some fantastic places in Italy, like Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast. But honestly, Neapolitans are some of the friendliest people we’ve met. They love to chat and share their thoughts, so it’s worth learning a few Italian phrases to connect with them. Not everyone speaks English, but that’s all part of the adventure! Plus, the menus will only be in Italian in some more authentic restaurants. Don’t worry; you can use the Google Translate app to make things easier. Just click the camera icon in the translate box, and voila! Instant translation in English. And remember, it’s always respectful to try and embrace the local language and culture when you’re visiting a new place.
©Giannis Papanikos / Shutterstock
It is home to pizza.
It can be tough to distinguish between authentic Neapolitan pizza and “N” Neapolitan-style pizza you may have tried at home. Fortunately, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) has laid strict guidelines for what qualifies as authentic Neapolitan pizza, and only pizzerias certified by AVPN can officially serve it. If you find yourself in Naples, you’ll have the opportunity to try some of the most famous pizzerias, like L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele (pro tip: get there early for a table or order takeout) which became quite popular after being featured in the movie Eat, Pray, Love, as well as Sorbillo, another fantastic spot for Neapolitan pizza.
©thepizzashop.ca
There is more to eat than just pizza.
Naples has many other yummy options if you’re not feeling like pizza or want to mix it up. Even though pizza is its claim to fame, Naples has fantastic cuisine highlighting its local seafood and produce.
For all the pasta fans out there, you must try three dishes: any variation of alla Genovese, Neapolitan ragu, and spaghetti alla vongole. The Vongole is a light pasta dish with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, and parsley.
The Genovese and ragu dishes have a slow-cooked base of meat and onions. However, ragu also includes tomatoes in its recipe. Both words are delicious – the Genovese has a comforting, caramelized sauce that will indeed please.
Don’t forget Naples’ creamy mozzarella and homegrown tomatoes. Sometimes, the simplest things are the best, and Campanian-produced tomatoes and mozzarella are no exception—they’re downright superb!
©GIOVANNI CARRIERI
The traffic is quite hectic.
The next important thing this Naples guide will reveal is its chaotic traffic.
Walking around Naples, being ready for a busy traffic environment is essential. The driver’s honk and seem to drive recklessly, which might be overwhelming if you’re used to more structured driving rules. But the people in Naples have developed a unique system that works well despite the chaos. It would be best to be careful around scooters, which often drive through streets crowded with pedestrians and don’t always prioritize safety. Taking responsibility for your safety is essential since many scooter riders don’t wear helmets or fasten their chin straps.
It’s easy to both reach and get around in Naples.
This is one of the Top things to know before visiting Naples. It’s namely genuinely accessible.
You can easily reach it from various European locations.
Therefore, check the flight fares here if you have decided to take your next vacation there.
Therefore, check the train/bus fares here if you have decided to take your next vacation there.
©wanderlustpulse.com
The Amalfi Coast is at your fingertips.
If you’re planning a trip to Naples and would love to explore the Amalfi Coast, we’re here to assist you. We suggest taking a train to Sorrento or Salerno and figuring out the best way to reach your destination. You can easily find train schedules and book your tickets online hassle-free! Taking a ferry as close to your accommodation as possible is highly recommended to avoid the traffic on the narrow coastal roads. Book your ferry tickets online in advance, especially during peak season. Finding ferry routes and booking tickets online is a breeze.
If you’re running short of time, why not take an organized tour? It’ll make things much more accessible and guarantee you get the most out of your trip. A well-recommended full-day tour will take you to Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, with an optional boat trip to Amalfi. Sounds exciting, right?
As you can see, no Naples Guide is complete without mentioning the Amalfi coast.
It’s the perfect base for island hopping.
Did you know the Bay of Naples is home to three beautiful islands (a must-see, so we included them in our Top Things to Know before visiting Naples)? They’re called Capri, Ischia, and Procida. Capri is often included in Amalfi Coast tours since it’s close to Positano and Sorrento, but it’s not a part of the Amalfi Coast. On the other hand, Sorrento isn’t officially part of the Amalfi Coast, but it’s a popular base for exploring it. Capri is the most famous of the Bay of Naples islands and has been a destination for the wealthy and famous for centuries. You can even explore the clifftop ruins of Villa Jovis there, where the scandalous Roman Emperor Tiberius fled from Rome in the 1st century AD. People have been drawn to the island for centuries because of its stunning natural beauty and seclusion.
Procida ©italia.it
If you’re searching for peace in Capri, it can be tricky with all the fancy hotels and shops around. Not to mention, prices can be pretty high, and many people visit for the day. However, if you’re up for a more laid-back experience, Ischia is a beautiful island often overlooked. You’ll find hot springs to help you unwind and a slower pace of life. And check out the famous Castello Aragonese while you’re there! For a day trip, Procida is a great choice, with its charming pastel homes and gorgeous beaches. Plus, it was recently voted Italy’s Capital of Culture for 2022! And the best part? It’s only a quick ferry ride from Naples.
You will find only a few hotels in the historic center.
If you’re planning a stay in Naples’s historical center, you might find that hotels are limited. But don’t worry; there are some unique guesthouses that you can choose from. If you’re more inclined to stay in a hotel, some stunning options are near the port and Piazza del Plebiscito. Just be cautious of cheaper hotels in the Garibaldi area, as there have been some safety concerns. To play it safe, booking a stay in the centro storico area is best.
Naples guide tip: We recommend staying at Sorrento when visiting Naples. It lies close by, and it has excellent connections with its surroundings.
Search all Naples accommodations using the link.
©napolike.com
Avoid high season
Perhaps this one is among the Top things to know before visiting Naples, namely, when to go!
To make the most of your trip to Naples, it’s wise to consider the shoulder seasons. Late spring and early fall are the best times to find affordable accommodations, with hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering options offering lower rates and attractive booking deals in April, June, September, and October. You can avoid crowds at famous sights and beaches by visiting during these quieter months. The low season (November to March) offers the cheapest rates for those on a tight budget. While the weather may not be as warm, visitors can still enjoy various festive cultural events such as Christmas and Carnevale festivals at a fraction of the high season prices. Accommodation rates can be up to 30% lower during this period. We recommend planning your trip around one of the many annual festivals celebrating local produce, such as apricots and grapes, to make your visit more enjoyable.
Final wording
In this article, Top things to know before visiting Naples, we wanted to prepare you a bit. Try a slice of its flavor, which is much more than just pizza. Believe us!
Furthermore, we hope you will find it helpful. But if you have already visited the city, share your impressions in the comment section below. Last but not least, please do share your thoughts on our Naples guide with us.
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Feature photo: © figurniysergey.com