Naples, renowned for its vibrant blend of chaos and charm, stands as a testament to Italy’s rich history, architectural marvels, and cultural depth, not to mention its stunning natural scenery. It ranks as Italy’s third largest city, trailing only Rome and Milan, and is nestled in the southern part of the country, within the Campania region.
The city is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, where every turn reveals majestic castles, churches, and palaces, each with their own captivating tales. Even without stepping inside landmarks like Castel dell’Ovo, the Duomo, San Francesco di Paola Basilica, or the Royal Palace, simply meandering through Naples’ picturesque streets can captivate any visitor.
The allure extends beyond Naples itself, with the surrounding region offering a plethora of intriguing sites, making the city an ideal hub for excursions to Pompeii, Capri, Amalfi, Sorrento, Positano, and Mount Vesuvius.
After a day of discovery, there’s no better way to satisfy your appetite than by savoring the local Neapolitan cuisine at a traditional eatery. After all, this city is the proud birthplace of pizza!
History of Naples
Naples, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, boasts a rich and complex history that spans nearly three millennia. The city’s strategic location in the Bay of Naples along the Mediterranean Sea has made it a cultural and economic hub throughout history.
Foundation and Greek Period
Naples was founded in the late 7th century BCE by Greek settlers from nearby Cumae and was originally named Neapolis (New City). It was a part of the larger Greek cultural sphere in southern Italy, often referred to as Magna Graecia.
Roman Era
In the 4th century BCE, Naples came under Roman control. During the Roman period, Naples maintained a degree of autonomy, allowed to keep much of its Hellenistic culture and language. The city became a favored vacation spot for wealthy Romans and emperors, drawn by its beauty and its cultural offerings, including theatres and baths.
Middle Ages
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Naples was successively conquered by the Goths, Byzantines, and Lombards. In the 8th century, it became an independent duchy, though it was often caught in the power struggles between the Pope and the Holy Roman Empire. In 1139, Naples became part of the Kingdom of Sicily under the Normans, and later, the Angevin rulers made it the capital of their kingdom, which covered most of present-day Southern Italy.
Spanish and Austrian Rule
The 16th century brought Spanish rule under the Habsburgs, marking a period of economic and social decline but also enriching its cultural and architectural heritage. The Spanish introduced their administrative system and left a substantial architectural imprint on the city with new castles, palaces, and churches. In the early 18th century, Naples fell under Austrian control briefly before passing back to the Spanish (and later Bourbon) dynasty.
Italian Unification
In 1860, following a plebiscite and the expedition of the Thousand led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, Naples became part of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy. The unification marked the end of feudalism and the beginning of a modern administrative state, although the transition was fraught with economic and social challenges.
Modern Era
Through the 19th and 20th centuries, Naples faced significant challenges, including poverty, crime, and political corruption, but it also saw periods of cultural renaissance and economic activity. The city was heavily bombed during World War II, which caused extensive damage and hardship. Post-war reconstruction was slow, and many historical buildings were replaced with less distinguished architecture.
Contemporary Naples
Today, Naples is renowned for its rich history, art, culture, architecture, music, and gastronomy. It retains a unique character within Italy, embodying a blend of historical influences and a vibrant street life. Despite ongoing challenges, it continues to be a major economic and cultural center in southern Italy.
Naples’ extensive history is visible in its wide array of archaeological sites, ancient and medieval architecture, and the urban fabric, making it a deeply fascinating city to explore.
Visiting Naples for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Naples on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
23 Best places to See in Naples
This complete guide to Naples not only tells you about the very bestsights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insightsinto a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Naples and is filled with tips and info thatshould answer all your questions!
Naples Cathedral
Naples Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, is the primary Roman Catholic church in Naples, southern Italy, and serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Naples. It is affectionately known as the Cathedral of Saint Januarius, in honor of the city’s patron saint. History of Naples Cathedral Constructed in […]
Location: Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Via Duomo, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Daily from 8 am to 12:30 pm, and from 4:30 pm to 7 pm. | Price: Free entry. Baptistery: € 2 (£ 1.70) | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Naples Cathedral
We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.
San Lorenzo Maggiore
San Lorenzo Maggiore is a significant historical and cultural site in Naples, Italy, situated at the geographic center of the city’s ancient Greek-Roman core. This church, with origins tied to the Franciscan Order during St. Francis of Assisi’s lifetime, stands at the intersection of via San Gregorio Armeno and via dei Tribunali. The church’s construction […]
Location: San Lorenzo Maggiore, Piazza San Gaetano, Naples, NA, Italy | Hours: Daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm | Price: Archaeological site and museum: Adults: € 9 (£ 7.70). | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting San Lorenzo Maggiore
Explore Naples yourself with our self-guided walking tour!
Powered by GetYourGuide
Chiesa delle Cape di Morte
Consecrated in 1638, the intriguing Chiesa delle Cape di Morte (Church of the Skulls) in Naples is renowned for its dual-level structure. The upper church houses distinguished paintings, notably Luca Giordano’s The Death of St. Alessio and Massimo Stanzione’s Virgin with the Souls of Purgatory. However, it is the lower church that captures the most […]
Location: Complesso Museale Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco, Via dei Tribunali, 39, 80138 Napoli, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10.00 – 17.00Sunday: 10.00 – 14.00 | Price: Upper Church free entry, Guided tours €7 | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Chiesa delle Cape di Morte
Cappella Sansevero
The Cappella Sansevero, also known as the Chapel of Santa Maria della Pietà, is a gem of Rococo art nestled in the historic center of Naples, Italy. Located on Via Francesco de Sanctis, close to the church of San Domenico Maggiore, this chapel is a testament to the artistic and cultural legacy of the 18th […]
Location: Cappella Sansevero, Via Francesco de Sanctis, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 9 am to 7 pm.Closed Tuesdays. | Price: Adults: €8. Young people between 10 and 25 years old: €5. Children under 10 years old: free. | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Cappella Sansevero
Santa Chiara, Naples
Santa Chiara is a historic religious complex in Naples, Italy, comprising a church, a monastery, tombs, and an archaeological museum. Situated on Via Benedetto Croce, the easternmost leg of Via Spaccanapoli, its facade faces the church of Gesù Nuovo. This complex is a striking feature of Naples, built in 1313-1340 by Queen Sancha of Majorca […]
Location: Santa Chiara, Via Santa Chiara, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Monastery: Monday to Saturday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm. Sunday 10:00 am - 2:30 pm.Basilica: Monday to Saturday 8:00 am - 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm. Sunday 9:00 am - 12:45 pm and 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm. | Price: Adults: €6 | Website | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Santa Chiara, Naples
National Archeological Museum, Naples
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) stands as one of Italy’s most prestigious and frequented museums, celebrated for its extensive and unique collection that ranks among the world’s most significant. This institution is not only a cornerstone of cultural heritage but also a vital contributor to European culture, offering a comprehensive dive into the […]
Location: National Archaeological Museum of Naples, Piazza Museo, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 9 am to 7:30 pm.Tuesdays: closed. | Price: Adults: € 18 (£ 15.40) Artecard: € 9 (£ 7.70) Under 18s from the EU: Free 18 - 24 year olds from the EU: € 2 (£ 1.70) First Sunday of the month: free | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting National Archeological Museum, Naples
Powered by GetYourGuide
Piazza Dante
On warm summer evenings, Piazza Dante becomes a vibrant hub of community activity, bustling with families who gather to stroll, dine, smoke, play cards, chase balloons, and share stories about their relatives. The square is dramatically framed on the eastern side by the vast façade of the Convitto Nazionale, the crowning glory of Luigi Vanvitelli’s […]
Location: Piazza Dante, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Piazza Dante
Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo, commonly referred to as Maschio Angioino, is a medieval fortress located in front of Piazza Municipio near the city hall, Palazzo San Giacomo, in the heart of Naples, Campania, Italy. With its strategic placement and grand scale, the castle, erected in 1279, stands as one of Naples’ principal architectural landmarks and served as […]
Location: Castel Nuovo, Via Vittorio Emanuele III, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 6 pm.Sunday: 10 am to 1 pm. | Price: Adults: € 6 (£ 5.10). | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Castel Nuovo
Galleria Umberto I
Galleria Umberto I, a stunning architectural gem from the 19th century, stands as one of Italy’s most beloved public shopping arcades. This grand arcade in Naples not only serves as a bustling center for shopping and socializing but also beautifully showcases the period’s innovative use of glass and iron, making it a must-visit landmark for […]
Location: Galleria Umberto I, Via Santa Brigida, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Galleria Umberto I
Museo di Capodimonte
The Museo di Capodimonte, housed in the grand Bourbon Palace of Capodimonte in Naples, Italy, serves as a premier art museum renowned for its extensive collection of Neapolitan paintings, decorative arts, and important works from various Italian schools. It also features significant ancient Roman sculptures, making it one of Italy’s largest museums. The museum opened […]
Location: Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte, Via Miano, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Thursday to TuesdayGround floor: 8:30 am to 7:30 pm.First and second floors: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.Closed Wednesdays. | Price: Adults: € 14 | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Museo di Capodimonte
Teatro di San Carlo
The Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, Italy, known simply as Teatro San Carlo, is a historic opera house adjacent to the Royal Palace and Piazza del Plebiscito. It is recognized as the world’s oldest continuously active opera venue, having been established in 1737, predating other famous opera houses such as Milan’s La Scala and […]
Location: Teatro di San Carlo, Via San Carlo, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Guided tours: Monday to Saturday (excluding holidays): 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm. | Price: Adults: € 9 (£ 7.70). Young people under 30/seniors over 60: € 7 (£ 6). Children under 10 years old: € 4 (£ 3.40). | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Teatro di San Carlo
Catacombs of San Gennaro
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are a significant underground paleo-Christian burial and worship site located in Naples, Italy. Carved into the porous tuff stone on the northern slopes leading up to Capodimonte, these catacombs are notable for their spacious passageways and two levels: San Gennaro Superiore and San Gennaro Inferiore, situated beneath the Rione Sanità […]
Location: Catacombs of San Gennaro, Via Capodimonte, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: From Mondays to Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm (Last admission 5 pm)Closed on Wednesdays | Price: €13.00 | Website | Distance: 2.3km
Visiting Catacombs of San Gennaro
Powered by GetYourGuide
Royal Palace of Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples, or Palazzo Reale di Napoli, is an emblematic palace and museum located in the heart of Naples, Italy. Serving as a key historical and tourist destination, this grand structure was one of four residences used by the House of Bourbon during their reign over the Kingdom of Naples (1735-1816) and […]
Location: Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 9 am to 8 pm.Closed Wednesdays. | Price: Adults: € 10 (£ 8.60). Young people between 18 and 24 years old: € 2 (£ 1.70). Children under 18 years old: free entry. | Distance: 2.3km
Visiting Royal Palace of Naples
Piazza del Plebiscito
Piazza del Plebiscito is a prominent public square in the heart of Naples, Italy. Its name derives from the plebiscite of October 21, 1860, which brought Naples under the unified Kingdom of Italy, governed by the House of Savoy. Situated near the Gulf of Naples, this spacious square is flanked by significant architectural landmarks including […]
Location: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.4km
Visiting Piazza del Plebiscito
Powered by GetYourGuide
San Martino Monastery and Museum
The Certosa di San Martino is a former monastery that now serves as a museum, located atop the Vomero hill in Naples, Italy. This historic site, along with the adjacent Castel Sant’Elmo, forms one of the most prominent landmarks overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Originally a Carthusian monastery, it was established in 1368 under the […]
Location: Largo S. Martino, 5, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy | Hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 8:30 am - 4:00 pmClosed on Wednesdays | Price: €6 | Distance: 2.5km
Visiting San Martino Monastery and Museum
San Francesco di Paola
San Francesco di Paola stands as a monumental church located on the western side of Piazza del Plebiscito, the main square in Naples, Italy. Originally conceived in the early 19th century by King Joachim Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law, the structure and its surrounding square were intended as a grand tribute to the emperor. However, following the […]
Location: San Francesco di Paola, Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 6:45 am to 12 pm and 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm.Sundays: 8 am to 12 pm. | Price: Free | Distance: 2.5km
Visiting San Francesco di Paola
Napoli Sotterranea
Naples’ underground world is a fascinating aspect of the city, shaped by its unique geological and morphological characteristics. The territory consists of tuff, a type of rock that is light, friable, and easy to quarry, which has deeply influenced the city’s development and architecture. Historical Development of Napoli Sotterranea The transformation of Naples’ landscape began […]
Location: Napoli Sotterranea, Vico San Anna di Palazzo, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Guided tours in English: daily at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm. | Price: Guided tour: € 10 | Website | Distance: 2.5km
Visiting Napoli Sotterranea
Powered by GetYourGuide
Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel)
The Bourbon Tunnel, or Galleria Borbonica in Italian, is a historic underground passage in Naples, Italy, originally designed for military purposes. It was intended to connect the Royal Palace of Naples with the military barracks via Morelli, running beneath the Pizzofalcone hill and extending to the San Ferdinando quarter. The tunnel was part of a […]
Location: Galleria Borbonica - Ingresso Via Morelli, Via Domenico Morelli, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holidays:Tour Start times: 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 3pm, 5pm | Price: €11.00 | Website | Distance: 2.6km
Visiting Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel)
Powered by GetYourGuide
Castel Sant’Elmo, Naples
Castel Sant’Elmo, a medieval fortress located on Vomero Hill next to the Certosa di San Martino, is one of the most prominent landmarks overlooking Naples, Italy. Originating from a 10th-century church dedicated to Sant’Erasmo, the site has undergone various transformations since the first documented structure in 1275 under Charles of Anjou. History of Castel Sant’Elmo, […]
Location: Castel Sant'Elmo, Via Tito Angelini, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Daily from 8:30 am - 7:30 pm (last entry 6:30 pm) | Price: €2.50 | Distance: 2.6km
Visiting Castel Sant’Elmo, Naples
Powered by GetYourGuide
Fontana del Gigante
The Fontana del Gigante (Fountain of the Giant) is a notable example of 17th-century Mannerist art, characterized by its trio of arches and decorated with heraldic symbols and marine creatures. This impressive fountain currently graces the seafront near Castel dell’Ovo, marking its fourth and final relocation in the city of Naples. Originally erected in the […]
Location: Fontana del Gigante, Via Partenope, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: 24 hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.9km
Visiting Fontana del Gigante
Castel Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, or “Egg Castle,” stands prominently on what was once the island of Megaride, now a peninsula jutting into the Gulf of Naples, Italy. Its name is derived from a medieval legend involving the Roman poet Virgil, who was believed to be a powerful sorcerer and seer. According to myth, Virgil placed a magical […]
Location: Castel dell'Ovo, Via Eldorado, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: Monday to Friday: 9 am to 7 pm.Sunday: 9 am to 1 pm. | Price: Free | Distance: 3.1km
Visiting Castel Ovo
Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius, one of just two active volcanoes on the European continent, rises to a height of approximately 1,281 meters. It features a symmetrical central cone and steep wooded slopes. The entirety of Mount Vesuvius National Park is not only picturesque but also productive, peppered with quaint farms and vineyards that cultivate ancient grape varieties […]
Location: Mount Vesuvius, Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: January – February: 9 am – 3 pm.March: 9 am – 4 pm.April, May & June: 9 am – 5 pm.July – August: 9 am – 6 pm.September: 9 am – 5 pm.October: 9 am – 4 pm.November – December: 9 am – 3 pm. | Distance: 13.9km
Visiting Mount Vesuvius
Paestum
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the ancient Greek city of Paestum in southern Italy. This archaeological site, one of the most fascinating stops on the Amalfi Coast, features three of the world’s most complete Doric temples, dating back to circa 600 to 450 BCE. The temples include the Basilica of Hera, the Temple […]
Location: Paestum, SA, Italy | Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. | Price: €6 | Distance: 78.5km
Visiting Paestum
Powered by GetYourGuide
1. Naples Cathedral2. San Lorenzo Maggiore3. Chiesa delle Cape di Morte4. Cappella Sansevero5. Santa Chiara, Naples6. National Archeological Museum, Naples7. Piazza Dante8. Castel Nuovo9. Galleria Umberto I10. Museo di Capodimonte11. Teatro di San Carlo12. Catacombs of San Gennaro13. Royal Palace of Naples14. Piazza del Plebiscito15. San Martino Monastery and Museum16. San Francesco di Paola17. Napoli Sotterranea18. Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel)19. Castel Sant’Elmo, Naples20. Fontana del Gigante21. Castel Ovo22. Mount Vesuvius23. Paestum
Best Time to Visit Naples
The best time to visit Naples, Italy, depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and local events. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you decide:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Naples. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in early spring to about 22°C (72°F) in late May. The city is less crowded than in the summer, making it a great time to explore tourist attractions and enjoy the blossoming landscape without the peak season rush.
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F). While this is a popular time for tourists, it can be quite hot, especially for exploring the city on foot. However, summer is vibrant with numerous festivals and events, and the bustling atmosphere is very lively.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit. The temperatures start to cool down, making September and October ideal for sightseeing. The tourist crowds diminish, and you can enjoy a more relaxed visit. Also, the autumn light is beautiful for photography, especially in the historic parts of the city.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are generally mild compared to other European cities, with temperatures rarely dropping below 4°C (39°F). December can be quite festive with Christmas decorations and events. However, January and February are quieter, and although it’s off-season with fewer tourists, some attractions might have shorter hours or be closed.
Each season in Naples offers a unique charm, so the best time to visit would align with what you want to experience during your trip. If you prefer mild weather and fewer crowds, spring and autumn are ideal. For beach weather and lively cultural events, summer is the best choice. Winter offers a quieter, more subdued travel experience with the charm of festive decorations and cooler weather.
Average Temperatures in Naples
- January15°C16
- February15°C16
- March17°C12
- April21°C8
- May24°C7
- June31°C4
- July33°C1
- August33°C2
- September28°C13
- October24°C16
- November19°C30
- December16°C16
How to get to Naples
Getting to Naples, Italy, can be done through various means of transportation, depending on where you are starting from. Here are some of the common ways to reach this vibrant city:
By Air
- Naples International Airport (NAP), also known as Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino, is located just a few kilometers from the city center. It serves numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a bus (Alibus), or arrange for a private transfer to get to the city center.
By Train
- Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale) is the main railway station and is well-connected to other major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice through high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Italo, or Intercity). There are also regional trains connecting Naples to other parts of Campania.
- The train from Rome to Naples, for example, takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether you are on a high-speed train or a slower regional service.
By Car
- Driving to Naples can be a good option if you want the flexibility of exploring the surrounding areas like the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the countryside of Campania. Major highways connect Naples to the rest of Italy. From Rome, you can take the A1 Autostrada, which is a direct route to Naples.
By Bus
- Long-distance buses connect Naples with many Italian cities. Companies like FlixBus offer comfortable and economical services. Buses may be a cheaper alternative to trains, although they might take longer, especially with traffic.
By Boat
- Naples has a major port with ferries and hydrofoils connecting it to islands such as Capri, Ischia, and Sicily, as well as other coastal towns. This is a scenic way to arrive in Naples if you are coming from nearby islands or coastal regions.
Getting Around in Naples
Once in Naples, the public transport system, consisting of buses, trams, a metro system, and funiculars, provides good coverage and an easy way to navigate the city. However, the historical center is quite walkable, and many of the main sights are within walking distance of each other.
Consider the most convenient and efficient mode of transport based on your departure location and budget when planning your trip to Naples.