Naples, Italy: Best things to see, to eat, to do

------------------------------------------------------------

Intro

Living in Naples gave me a chance to see the city beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a place full of energy, history, and everyday life happening all around you. It’s not always polished, but that’s part of what makes it interesting. From street food to ancient sites, Naples has a lot to offer if you take the time to explore it. If you're thinking about visiting, I’d say go—with an open mind and a bit of curiosity. Naples has become, hands down, one of my absolute favourite European destinations and I suggest to anyone that wants to visit Italy do not miss the opportunity to visit Naples.

The city is the third largest city in Italy, counting more than 3 million people (metropolitan area). It is the capital of the region Campania, and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited urban areas in the world. Locals are very aware of their history (and rightfully very proud of it). The city has it all:

• Amazing architecture: both well-reserved ancient sites, modern parts, "villas", folksy neihbourhoods, fancy areas,
• Arguable the best (overall) food in Italy, which at the same time is totally afforable: I have had the best pizzas I have ever had (Michelin star pizzerias serving for 4 euros), incredible pasta dishes (make sure to try a dish with fresh fish, and some other time with potatoes and provola, and some other time with napoletan ragu... and... oh lord, there is not end to this list),
• Quick access to incredible beaches (having Amalfi Coast, Ischia, Capri, Procida etc. in distances reachable within an hour),
• Quick access to archeological sites (i.e. Pompei, Herculaneum, Paestum...),
• Bars and nightlife any day of the week.

------------------------------------------------------------

How to reach Naples

Naples is well-connected and accessible by various means of transportation. The most convenient way to reach Naples from international destinations is by flying into Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), which serves several major European cities. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by taxi, shuttle bus, or local bus services. Naples is also connected by highway for those traveling by car from other Italian regions, and the central train station, Napoli Centrale, serves as a major hub for high-speed and regional trains.

For travelers already in Rome, reaching Naples is especially easy and fast. The high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. This is a popular and efficient transfer option, offering comfort and scenic views along the way. Alternatively, there are regional trains and long-distance buses that offer budget-friendly routes between the two cities, though these options typically take longer—ranging from 2 to 3 hours.

It is highly reccommended to book in advance your high speed train, both for ensuring availability but also for getting lower prices, as typically prices raise the closure you get to your departure date. 

------------------------------------------------------------

The top 10 things to do in Naples as a tourist

Naples is a city that blends deep history with vibrant street life, and its top attractions showcase everything from royal grandeur to sweeping coastal views. At the heart of the city lies Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ most famous square, framed by the Royal Palace of Naples and the elegant Church of San Francesco di Paola. This spacious, crescent-shaped piazza is a popular meeting point and venue for open-air concerts and events (fun twist: try googling for the game with the blindfold in piazza plebiscito. You will love it). Just a short walk away is Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), a 13th-century fortress that once housed kings and is now home to the Civic Museum, offering insight into Naples’ medieval and Renaissance past. 

The city’s waterfront is another must-see area. The lungomare, or seaside promenade, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, creating one of the most iconic landscapes in southern Italy. Along the promenade sits Castel dell’Ovo, the oldest castle in the city, set on the islet of Megaride. Visitors can stroll along the marina, enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants, or simply relax with views of the volcano that famously destroyed Pompeii yet continues to dominate the Naples skyline with its looming, majestic presence. The entrance here is free, and you should definately go to the top for an amazing seaside view

Rising above the city is the elegant hilltop neighborhood of Vomero, known for its refined atmosphere, beautiful villas, and panoramic views. It’s accessible by funicular and well worth the ride for its cultural gems. In Vomero, you’ll find Castel Sant’Elmo, a star-shaped fortress offering sweeping views over the bay, and the Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery turned museum filled with religious art and baroque architecture. The calm, leafy streets of Vomero provide a welcome contrast to the busier historical center, and it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. I recommend that you arrive in Vomero in the morning, go to the castle to enjoy probably the best panorama you can find of the city, and then stay in Vomero for lunch before walking back down to the city. It is absolutely worth it to walk down instead of taking transportation, the route will give you a very good feeling of how locals live. 

Among Naples’ religious landmarks, the Church of Santa Maria la Nova stands out for its artistic and historical value. Located near the historic center, it combines Gothic and Renaissance features and contains a peaceful cloister where, according to some legends, Vlad the Impaler (the real Dracula) may be buried. The church has a very unique backyard that you can access for a fee, which is definately worth it. Another important religious site is the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro), dedicated to the city’s patron saint and famous for the "Miracle of the Blood" ceremony held three times a year. These sacred sites reflect the deep spiritual heritage of Naples and its role as a center of religious devotion through the centuries.

No visit to Naples would be complete without a stop at the Naples National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums in Europe for Roman antiquities. It holds a vast collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, statues, and everyday objects that offer a vivid glimpse into life before the eruption of Vesuvius. If you want to swap your museum visit for something quicker, then try googling "Cristo Velato". Lastly, an essential experience is walking down Spaccanapoli, the narrow, straight street that slices through the heart of the historic center. Lined with churches, shops, and street vendors, it captures the essence of Naples—chaotic, colorful, and alive with history. These ten attractions together paint a rich portrait of a city that is as complex as it is captivating. you will end up walking here more than once innevitably, and you will enjoy it each time. 

------------------------------------------------------------

What and Where to eat

My recommendations for getting good food and drinks in the city:

• Pizza. You most probably travelled here in order to taste the famous Neapoletan pizza, and you are right. The city offers A LOT of different local places for a great pizza experience. You can have a typical margherita or marinara, or scale it up to fancy topings, canzole, or even fried pizza. I believe that less is more, and the best pizza you can have is a margherita. The locals have their favourites, but my personal favourite places are: "50 kalò" and "l'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele". 
• Pasta. There are so many good options, but if you are a tourist and want to reach places easily from the city center, you have to at least try pasta with "napoletan ragu" (try Tandem in the city center), pasta with fish (a famous place is "pescheria azzurra"), and pasta with potatoes and provola cheese (the most popular place, very affordable with decent food is "da nennella"). 
• Sweets. DO NOT leave the city without trying:
• Sfogliatella (take one riccia and one frolla, even though (spoilers) riccia is better);
• Nuvolla;
• Babà;
• Zepolla;
• Gelato from Mennella. 
• Aperitivo. Do it like an italian and go for a glass of Spritz around 18.00. There are lots of different places, and I advice you try the area "chiaia" so that you find the one that matches your taste the most. My personal favourite: Barril.
• Cocktail/Drink/Beer. It is a student city after all. There are so many places all over, so you will never have a hard time finding a place. Where did I go? Piazza Bellini (favourite place: the yard of the library, working also as a cafe/bar), and the bars on "via Candelora" (favourite place: "Kestè"). 

As a rule of thumb, a meal for two, include a glass of wine will be around 20-30 euros per person, which can go down to 10 euros easily if you do not look for something fancy. 

Breakfast is around 2.5 euros (coffee and cornetto), a beer 3-5 euros, and a cocktail 8 euros. 

Nevertheless, do not overthink about where to eat or drink. Napoletans know about and appreciate good food, so feel free to rely on street food or pick a restaurant randomly. You will not get dissapointed. 

------------------------------------------------------------

The 5 most notable buildings for architecture lovers

Naples is a city where architectural history unfolds at every turn, offering an eclectic mix of styles that reflect its layered past. One of the most striking buildings is the Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale) in Piazza del Plebiscito. Built in the early 17th century, it showcases Spanish Baroque architecture and was later modified with Neoclassical elements. Its grand façade, regal staircases, and lavish interior rooms offer a glimpse into the opulence of Naples’ royal era, making it a must-visit for architecture and history enthusiasts alike.

Another architectural gem is the Certosa di San Martino, a former Carthusian monastery perched in the Vomero district. This masterpiece of Baroque architecture is known for its intricate marble work, frescoed ceilings, and sweeping views of the Bay of Naples. Just below it sits Castel Sant’Elmo, a star-shaped fortress from the 14th century, which contrasts with the elaborate detailing of the Certosa with its more austere military design. Together, they offer a stunning architectural dialogue between the sacred and the defensive, all set against one of the city’s most panoramic backdrops.

No exploration of Naples’ architecture is complete without visiting the Church of Gesù Nuovo, a unique structure with a façade unlike any other in Italy. Originally a Renaissance palace, it was converted into a church in the 16th century, and its diamond-shaped stone exterior is both mysterious and iconic. Inside, the church stuns with Baroque art, gilded chapels, and vibrant frescoes. Also worth noting is the Galleria Umberto I, a grand 19th-century shopping arcade featuring a soaring glass dome and ornate ironwork, symbolizing the elegance of post-unification Naples. These five buildings not only define the city’s skyline but also tell the story of Naples through architecture.

------------------------------------------------------------

Transportation within Naples

Naples offers a variety of transportation options that make it easy for tourists to explore the city and its surrounding areas. The metro is one of the most efficient ways to get around, especially lines 1 and 2, which connect the city center with key neighborhoods and landmarks. Line 1, known for its artistic "Metro Art Stations," is not only practical but also a visual treat. Trains run frequently, and tickets are inexpensive and valid for multiple public transport services within a 90-minute window.

Buses and trams cover extensive routes across Naples, including places that the metro doesn’t reach. Managed by ANM (Azienda Napoletana Mobilità), these services run regularly during the day, though they can be less predictable at night. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands, tobacco shops, or vending machines, but must be validated upon boarding. While useful, traffic congestion can cause delays, so it’s worth checking schedules and avoiding rush hours when possible.

Funiculars are a unique and practical feature of Naples, especially given the city’s hilly terrain. There are four main funicular lines—Chiaia, Centrale, Montesanto, and Mergellina—that connect the lower parts of the city to elevated districts like Vomero. These are particularly helpful for avoiding steep climbs and offer scenic views of the city. They use the same ticketing system as buses and the metro, making transfers seamless.

Taxis and ride services offer more direct and flexible transport, particularly when public transport isn’t convenient. Official taxis are white and have fixed fares for certain routes, such as from the airport to the city center. It’s advisable to confirm the fare before starting a ride or request the use of the meter. While ride-hailing apps like Uber have limited presence, local apps like Free Now or local taxi companies are a reliable alternative for quick and safe transport. Or, just go to your closest square. Most of them have a pool of taxis waiting for customers. 

------------------------------------------------------------

Top 5 day-trips from Naples

Naples is the perfect base for exploring some of Italy’s most beautiful and historic destinations. One of the most popular day trips from Naples is to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Just a short train ride away, Pompeii offers visitors a chance to walk through ancient streets, explore well-preserved houses, and see frescoes and mosaics that bring the past to life. For history lovers, it’s an unforgettable experience that shows the daily life of an ancient civilization.

Another fantastic day trip is to the Amalfi Coast, famous for its breathtaking sea views, colorful cliffside villages, and scenic drives. Towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello offer stunning landscapes, delicious local food, and charming streets perfect for wandering. You can get there by bus, private car, or even take a boat from Naples, which adds to the magic of the journey. This is a perfect trip for those who want a relaxing day filled with beauty and coastal charm.

For a more active adventure, consider hiking Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that famously destroyed Pompeii. You can take a bus or join a guided tour from Naples that brings you close to the summit. From there, a short hike leads you to the crater, where you’ll get panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. It’s a thrilling experience for nature lovers and a rare opportunity to stand on an active volcano.

Another easy and enjoyable day trip is to Capri (click here for relevant guide), the glamorous island known for its stunning sea caves and luxury shopping. You can catch a ferry from Naples and reach the island in about an hour. Highlights include the Blue Grotto, the charming town of Anacapri, and the beautiful views from Monte Solaro. Lastly, don’t miss Peastum (click here for relevant guide), where you can possibly the most well perserved ancient greek monuments. These five day trips provide a perfect mix of history, nature, and beauty — all within easy reach of Naples.

------------------------------------------------------------

Outro

Naples is a city full of life, flavor, and unforgettable experiences. With its rich history, beautiful coastlines, and warm, friendly locals, it offers something special for every kind of traveler. The food alone—think (real, authentic) pizza, fresh seafood, and sweet pastries—is reason enough to visit. Add in the vibrant culture, historic buildings, and buzzing street life, and you’ll quickly fall in love with this unique Italian city, which in my opinion ranks in the top 3 Italian cities.

If you’re short on time, staying 3 nights in Naples gives you a great taste of the city's top sights, food, and atmosphere. But if you want to explore more, including day trips to Pompeii, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast, plan for 5 to 6 nights. This way, you can enjoy the city at a relaxed pace while discovering the beauty and history of the surrounding region. Naples is more than just a stop—it’s a destination that stays with you long after you leave.