26 Best Things to Do in Naples Italy

👉 Jump to: Best Things to Do | Day Trips | Food & Drinks | Historic Attractions & Museums | Family-Friendly

As Italy’s third-largest city, it should be no surprise that Naples is spilling over with fun things to do. Yet, many visitors still skip over this incredibly authentic Italian destination. In my opinion, this is a major mistake. 

The experiences around Naples were highlights of my Italy trip, which is why I’m so adamant that every traveler should give the city a chance. Even better, this is quite easy to do because there are plenty of intriguing neighborhoods and places to stay around Naples for an affordable price. 

Let’s break down all the things in and around Naples that make it worthy of a spot on your Italy itinerary. 

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26 Best Things to Do in Naples

Catacombe di San Gennaro

Located underneath Naples, this ancient burial site dates back to 2 CE and is carved completely out of stone.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (817)-443-714 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily, Closed Wednesdays | Entrance: €13, adults, €9 under 18

Venture into the Naples underground in the San Gennaro Catacombs. This holy Christian burial site is over 1,800 years old and completely carved out of stone with ancient paintings covering the walls. It gives visitors a glimpse of the earliest beginnings of Naples. 

There is a great deal of history beneath the surface of this unique Naples attraction. That’s why I’d urge visitors to book this Catacombs of San Gennaro Entry Ticket & Guided Tour to truly understand the background and history of the site.

Castel Sant’Elmo

An 800-year-old Medieval castle and former prison that overlooks Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the coastline. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +390 812 294 404 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm daily | Entrance: €5, adults

Castel Sant’Elmo has towered above Naples since circa the year 1200. It was used as a residence and a military prison before becoming one of the most popular attractions in the area.

The structure is located in the elevated Vomero neighborhood, so you’ll be greeted with a panoramic perspective of the city and the Bay of Naples if you walk up. You can even see all the way out to Mount Vesuvius in the distance. Just keep in mind that it’s a strenuous trek up there if you choose to walk like I did.

Spaccanapoli Street

An iconic shopping street in the city center with endless unique souvenirs and handmade art. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free 

Spaccanapoli Street in the historic center is the ideal place to find that one-of-a-kind souvenir in Naples. The cobbled street is lined with vendors selling colorful handmade goods and art pieces. This area also offers a ton of traditional eateries, like Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo. 

From here, you can walk three minutes away to Via San Gregorio Armeno, another famous Naples shopping street. This street is a must if you’re visiting around Christmas when vendors sell ornaments and figurines. It’s even nicknamed Christmas Alley. 

Piazza del Plebiscito

A city square surrounded by top Naples attractions like the Royal Palace of Naples and Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free 

Look no further than Piazza del Plebiscito if you’re padding your Italy itinerary with free things to do in Naples. The city square is always buzzing with people since it’s surrounded by top tourist attractions like the Royal Palace and Basilica Reale Pontificia. 

People-watching in Piazza del Plebiscito is unmatched, plus there are a lot of affordable restaurants nearby. Check out Pizzeria Pavia and Antica Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo mere steps away.  

Quartieri Spagnoli

A bustling Naples neighborhood with narrow streets, authentic restaurants, and loads of personality. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free

The Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood, or the Spanish Quarter, is one of the best places to stay in Naples to get an authentic feel for the local culture. Spend a couple of hours wandering around the animated, skinny streets (just be careful of motorbikes whizzing around corners). 

The Spanish Quarter is one of the best places to taste Neapolitan food as well. Reserve a table at A Taverna d’ ‘e Zoccole to try local seafood or Pizzeria Laezza for classic brick-oven Naples-style pizza and traditional desserts.  

Via Toledo

A well-known shopping street in the city center that’s lined with boutique clothing shops and international chains. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 | Entrance: Free 

Via Toledo is a busy street through the heart of Naples with an impressive shopping scene. As you stroll along the route, you’ll constantly pass by tempting clothing stores. There are famous international brands around this area and one-of-a-kind boutiques. 

After a little shopping spree, make sure you check out the nearby Toledo Metro Station to see its beautiful, blue-tiled subway station.

Day Trips

Pompeii

A historic city that was famously wiped out by an eruption from Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: Entrance: €22, adults, Free Under Age 18 | 👉 Book Pompeii tour on Viator

The ancient city of Pompeii is located roughly an hour by train from Naples, making it the perfect day trip distance.

Here you’ll learn all about the 79 CE eruption of the Mount Vesuvius volcano that buried Pompeii in volcanic ash and effectively froze it in time.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a fascinating look into the excavated buildings and streets.

While it’s interesting just to see it all, this is one of those places that you can’t fully grasp without a tour. To maximize your time, I’d book this Pompeii Small Group Tour with an Archaeologist. 

It comes with an express entrance ticket and a knowledgeable guide who can show you the site in a way you’d never get alone. As a bonus, this can be a fantastic method of meeting friends if you’re traveling in Italy alone. 

Amalfi Coast

A Mediterranean gem with internationally renowned Italian towns like Positano, Sorrento, and Praiano. 

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 The best boat tour along the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast spans 50 kilometers south of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. It’s a top summer vacation destination in Italy for many, but it’s also one of the most expensive places in the country. Luckily, the Amalfi Coast is within a day’s trip distance of Naples, which is a much cheaper way to see the area than actually staying there.

The simplest way to experience the Amalfi Coast on a day trip from Naples is to participate in a guided excursion. For example, read Lea Rose’s experience on a boat tour she loved.

Mount Vesuvius

A 4,000-foot volcano that’s a popular place for hiking in Naples.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Entrance: €10 | 👉 Book Mount Vesuvius tour on Viator

Mount Vesuvius is a 4,000-foot-high volcano that looms over Naples in the distance. In addition to being a beautiful facet of the skyline, it’s a big part of the region’s history. It was responsible for the demise of ancient cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum. 

Brave visitors have the opportunity to hike up to the summit of Mount Vesuvius. You can park at the volcano’s base and take the hiking trail by yourself. It’s a fairly easy hike at only 1.5 miles long and takes around 45 minutes. 

Alternatively, travelers who don’t have a car may have an easier time getting to Mount Vesuvius by joining a guided day trip. This Pompeii Ruins & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Naples is a great option because it also takes you on a tour of Pompeii. 

Capri

Take a day trip to one of the most stunning and scenic islands along the Amalfi Coast.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Day Trip to Capri and Blue Grotto From Naples & Sorrento

I’ve been lucky enough to visit the island of Capri twice now, and each time it’s left me with a sense of awe. Capri is touristy, but trust me — it’s that way for good reason. In my opinion, visiting Capri is far better than a day trip to Positano. 

You can reach Capri by ferry from the Port of Naples. This takes about one hour. I recommend making your way to Anacapri after you arrive. From here, you can take a scenic chairlift to stunning panoramic views of Monte Solaro at the very top of the island. Then, get your shopping in while you explore the charming town of Anacapri. 

Later, make your way down to Marina Grande and do a Blue Grotto boat tour. It’s a must for first-time visitors. You can also book a guided excursion like this day trip to Capri from Naples if you don’t want to worry about the hassle of transportation to and around the island. 

Archaeological Park of Herculaneum

A lesser-known ancient town that was covered by ash from Mount Vesuvius’ eruption. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +39 081 010 6490 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: €16 | 👉 Book Archaeological Park of Herculaneum Tour on Viator

The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum features the ruins of another ancient city that was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius alongside Pompeii. In Herculaneum, you’ll find plenty of buildings that have been well-preserved through time, including public baths, a gateway, and a theater.

It’s much less touristy than its more famous neighbor and a good option for visitors who want to experience the history of the area without the crowds of Pompeii.

Food & Drinks

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele

A Naples pizzeria that was founded in 1870 and still attracts plenty of hungry patrons daily. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +39 081 1761 9996 | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 11 pm daily

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is one of Naples’ most delicious and famous places to indulge in a pizza pie. With over 150 years of history, it’s one of the oldest pizzerias in the city. If you’re a movie buff then you’ll recognize L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele from the Julia Roberts’ movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. 

All this fame usually attracts a huge line in front of this Naples pizzeria. One way to get around the line is by ordering for delivery on Just Eat, Italy’s food delivery service.

Barrio Botanico

A magical bar with an array of clever cocktails that feels like you’re drinking in a magical green garden.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (814)-246-186 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 1 am Mon-Wed, Thurs until 1:30 pm, 9:30 am – 2:30 am Fri-Sat, 9:30 am – 1:30 am Sundays 

Barrio Botanico is a trendy cocktail bar that’s decorated with trees to make it feel like you’re in a forest without leaving the city.

The bar has this see-through rooftop that adds to the ambiance and charm. It really makes the whole outdoor experience feel more convincing. To complement the space, Barrio Botanico also has delicious and creative drinks. 

👉 Local Tip: The best time to visit Barrio Botanico is actually during a rainstorm. The rain trickles down the transparent rooftop, which creates a mesmerizing effect. 

Trattoria da Nennella

An affordable, traditional Neapolitan restaurant with friendly staff in the Quartieri Spagnoli district. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (081)-414-338 | Website | Hours: 11:45 am – 3:30 pm & 6:45 pm – 11:30 pm, daily Closed Sundays

Trattoria da Nennella is the best spot in Naples for delicious regional food accompanied by welcoming staff. The restaurant is well-known for its fun atmosphere. All the waiters put on singing and dancing performances throughout the evening.

Scaturchio

A classic Italian pastry shop in Centro Storico that’s known for its mouthwatering rum babas and sfogliatelle. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (815)-516-944 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 9 pm daily 

Scaturchio is an excellent bakery in Naples for trying classic Italian pastries. Opened in 1905 by Giovanni Scaturchio, this shop is still run by the same family and they have perfected their craft. It’s one of the most famous pastry shops in the city and it has freshly made sfogliatelle, zeppola, and rum-soaked babas, to name a few offerings.

Historic Attractions & Museums

Royal Palace of Naples

An opulent former residence in Piazza del Plebiscito that’s become a famed Naples tourist attraction.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (081)-580-8255 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm daily, Closed Wednesdays | Entrance: Entrance: €15, adults, Free Under 18

The Royal Palace of Naples is a large 17th-century castle in Piazza del Plebiscito. While it looks relatively unassuming from the outside, it has an extremely lavish and expertly decorated interior.

Most people check out the palace for its museum, architecture, and incredible history. But it’s also a really gorgeous location for taking travel photography if you’re visiting Italy with a camera in hand.

Teatro Di San Carlo

This is the oldest opera theater in the world and has been continuously operating since 1737.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +39 081 797 2331 | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm daily (Guided Tours, hours differ for shows) | Entrance: Entrance: €9, adults (For Tours)

Teatro Di San Carlo is the planet’s oldest continuously operating opera theater. It’s located right next door to the Piazza del Plebiscito and is connected to the Royal Palace. So, it’s very easy to visit all these top attractions in the same afternoon.

The interior of the U-shaped San Carlo Theater is jaw-dropping with its distinctive golden rows and a painted ceiling. You can visit the San Carlo Theater on a guided tour for just 9 EUR or you can check out their upcoming performances on the Teatro di San Carlo Website.

Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara

An aesthetically pleasing historic monastery complex with colorful cloisters.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (810)-060-976 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm daily, 10 am – 2 pm Sundays | Entrance: €7, adults, €5 under 30 or Over 65

With 713 years of history, the Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara is one of the most beautiful and meaningful attractions in Naples. Maybe even all of Italy.

This monastery was originally constructed in the 1300s and is notably decorated with bright columns throughout its courtyard. While on-site, I recommend paying a visit to the museum as it preserves a 1st-century spa and sauna.

Galleria Borbonica

A 170-year-old underground tunnel system that was used as a hiding place and bomb shelter during WWII. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (817)-645-808 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Fri-Sun, Closed Mon-Thu | Entrance: €11, adults, Free Under Age 10 | 👉 Book Galleria Borbonica Tour on Viator

Galleria Borbonica is a network of underground tunnels that was built in 1853 as an escape route leading from the Royal Palace to the ocean. During the Second World War, it was used as a bomb shelter and hiding spot as well. 

It can be heavy to learn about the tunnel’s significance during this time, but it provides a real glimpse into the impact the war had on Italy. To learn all about Galleria Borbonica’s background and visit two other iconic sites, join this Walking Guided Tour of Naples and Bourbon Tunnel. 

MUSA Anatomy Museum

A creepy yet intriguing exploration of the body and medical sciences with real anatomical specimens. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (811)-876-0393 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 2 pm Tue, Thu & Fri, 10 am – 4 pm Wed, Closed Sat-Mon | Entrance: Free, Booking Required 

Naples’ MUSA Anatomy Museum displays the intricacies of human anatomy. It features an impressive collection of anatomical and historical items, each displayed from a scientific perspective. The museum is run by a local university’s medical school and is dedicated to the study of the body and medical sciences. 

There are a bunch of real human and animal specimens that are both unsettling and provocative at the same time. Due to the sensitive and somewhat graphic nature, this might not be the best museum to visit with young children. 

Gesù Nuovo

A Baroque-style church that was designed for the Prince of Salerno with a surprisingly gorgeous interior. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +39 081 557 8111 | Hours: 8 am – 12:45 pm & 4 pm – 7 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Gesù Nuovo is a Naples church whose exterior is covered in pyramid-like stones. Impressively, the interior is even more eye-catching. It has high arching ceilings with detailed paintings in every corner and lots of imposing statues. 

Visiting Gesù Nuovo is ideal for travelers on a budget. It’s completely free to enter and provides a beautiful glimpse into the city’s religious culture. Just make sure you dress modestly.

Ovo Castle

An imposing fortification on the Gulf of Naples that’s had a varied history as both a royal palace and a prison. 

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: Free 

⚠️ Closure Note: Castel dell’Ovo is closed to the public until further notice for renovation work.

Ovo Castle is the oldest castle in Naples and overlooks the bay. It has a fascinating history that you’d never guess just by looking at the structure.

It was originally built back in the 12th century, and throughout the years it was used as a residence for royalty, for military purposes, and as a prison.  Visitors can enter the Ovo Castle for free as long as they make a reservation online in advance.

Family-Friendly

Pizza Making Class

A deep dive into the art of pizza-making with professional chefs at a pretty pizzeria. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (815)-514-154 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 12 am daily, until 2 am Saturdays | 👉 Book Pizza Making Class on Viator

Taking a pizza-making class is a quintessential Naples activity. Learning how to properly make a pizza pie in the city where the delicacy was invented is a memorable experience and skill you’ll take through life.

Naples is rich with potential cooking classes, but the best one for learning the secrets of pizza is this Authentic Pizza-Making Class. I took this group lesson on my trip to Naples and it was really entertaining. 

We learned about the entire pizza process from making the dough to properly forming the final product. The experience also came with appetizers and a complimentary drink. At the end, we all ate our handmade pizzas fresh from the oven. It’s a tasty, educational activity in Naples and a straightforward way to make friends for solo travelers in the country.

Naples National Archaeological Museum

One of the biggest collections of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts in Italy with thousands of priceless pieces. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +39 081 442 12111 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 6:30 pm daily, Closed Tuesdays | Entrance: €20, adults, Free Under 18 

The Naples Archeological Museum was a luxurious palace back in the 17th century, but today it houses one of the city’s best museums. There are thousands of historical relics, art pieces, and other types of artifacts here. 

Full floors are dedicated to ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman history. The museum also has a lot of information about the nearby city of Pompeii and what happened there. Make sure your ticket includes access to the mosaic room because it’s one of the best parts.

Personally, I love visiting edifying museums like this one with a professional guide who knows all the juicy info. That’s why I’d suggest taking this National Archaeological Museum of Naples Tour to get the most out of it. 

If you don’t go with a tour, still buy your tickets to the Naples Archaeological Museum online ahead of time to avoid standing in a long line.

Galleria Umberto I

A gorgeous shopping mall where warm light pours in from the glass ceiling throughout the day. 

📍 Google Maps | Hours: vary daily | Entrance: Free

Naples indeed has its very own version of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall with its high glass ceilings. This Italian mall may look familiar but don’t worry, I didn’t confuse this list with my best things to do in Milan guide. 

The 133-year-old Galleria Umberto I is a large shopping mall with glass ceilings and murals on the walls. Inside this Naples mall, there are numerous shops and cafes to sit down with a drink and appreciate the impressive architecture. 

Zoo Di Napoli

A family-friendly zoo that’s home to 70 different rare and endangered species from around the world. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (811)-936-3154 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 6 pm Mon-Fri, 9:30 am – 7 pm Sat & Sun | Entrance: 15€, adults, 10€ age 4 – 10 

Zoo Di Napoli features a range of animals and foreign botanicals from around the world. The zoo is clean and very up-to-date. This is a fantastic afternoon activity in Naples if you’re on a family vacation with children.

One thing to keep in mind is that the zoo closes an hour earlier in the winter from November to March. 

***

Now you understand why I think Naples is easily one of the best places to visit in Italy. 

If you’re looking for more places to explore nearby, Florence makes for the perfect weekend trip from Naples. Even more incentive to go – you can save yourself research time by reading my complete 3-Day Florence Itinerary next.

–Lea Rose Allbaugh contributed to this article