Naples is one of Italy’s most exciting cities — a mix of ancient history, vibrant street life, incredible food, and dramatic views of Mount Vesuvius across the bay. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, Naples offers a balance of world-class sites and authentic local experiences. Here’s the ultimate list of things to do in Naples, Italy (with a few can’t-miss nearby excursions).
Ancient History & Archaeological Wonders
1. Explore Pompeii
No trip to Naples is complete without a visit to Pompeii, the Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The site is vast, covering over 160 acres, and can easily take an entire day to explore. You’ll wander down ancient streets, step inside villas decorated with colorful frescoes, see the haunting plaster casts of victims, and marvel at advanced Roman engineering like bathhouses, bakeries, and even an amphitheater.
How to get there & solo tips:
- Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station (around 35 minutes).
- Allow at least 3–5 hours to explore. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and consider starting early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Guided tours or audio guides help bring the ruins to life with historical context you’d miss otherwise.
- Guided tours often include transportation to and from the ruins.
2. Visit Herculaneum
While Pompeii draws the crowds, Herculaneum (Ercolano) is a smaller but better-preserved site. The volcanic mud that buried it protected delicate details — wooden beams, carbonized furniture, mosaics, and even scrolls from a villa’s library. The intimate scale of Herculaneum makes it easier to imagine what daily life was like for wealthy Romans.
How to Get there & solo tips:
- Take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi station (20 minutes from Naples).
- Expect to spend 2–3 hours here.
- Because it’s less crowded, it’s a great choice if you want a calmer experience or if you’re short on time.
- There are guided tours available.
Pro Tip: Many tours combine Pompeii + Herculaneum into one full-day excursion, allowing you to compare the two cities with the insights of an archaeologist guide. This is what we did, and it added a lot of value.
3. Hike Mount Vesuvius
Towering above the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world — and it’s still active. You can hike to the crater rim on a relatively short trail (about 1.5 miles round trip, ~650 ft elevation gain). At the top, you’ll peer into the smoking crater and enjoy sweeping views of Naples, Capri, and the coastline.
How to get there yourself :
- There are timed entry tickets available here. You need to purchase in advance.
- From Naples, take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi and connect to the Vesuvio Express bus (round trip €15). The bus drops you near the trailhead, and the ticket usually includes entry to the park.
- The entire visit (bus + hike) takes about 2–3 hours.
- Wear sturdy shoes — the path is dusty and gravelly.
There are group tour options that provide transportation
4. Naples National Archaeological Museum
If you want to understand what you’re seeing in Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Naples National Archaeological Museum is essential. Many of the finest artifacts — mosaics, frescoes, sculptures, everyday objects — were moved here to preserve them. Highlights include the Alexander Mosaic, intricate jewelry, and the intriguing “Secret Cabinet” collection.
Planning Tip:
- Located in central Naples, it’s easy to visit before or after your ruin explorations. Get off at Metro Line 1 Museo or Metro Line 2 Napoli Piazza Cavour depending on where you are coming from.
- Set aside 2–3 hours to explore.
- The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
- Listen to the free Rick Steves audio guide for a great introduction if you don’t want to hire a guide.
Pro Tip: Visiting the museum either before or after Pompeii/Herculaneum makes the ruins more meaningful — you’ll be able to picture how the cities looked in their prime.
Castles, Palaces & Piazzas
5. Castel Sant’Elmo
Perched on Vomero Hill, Castel Sant’Elmo is a massive star-shaped fortress that offers some of the best views in Naples. From its terraces, you’ll see the entire city stretching to the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and Capri on clear days.
- How to Get There: Take the funicolare (cable railway) from the city center up to Vomero — stops include Montesanto, Chiaia, and Centrale Funicolare. From the funicular stop, it’s about a 10-minute uphill walk.
- Tickets: €5 per person. Entry is free the first Sunday of the month.
- Why Visit: Perfect for photography, learning about Naples’ military history, and escaping the busy streets below.
6. Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Built in the 13th century, Castel Nuovo dominates Naples’ port area with its imposing medieval towers and triumphal arch. Inside, you’ll find art exhibits, temporary exhibitions, and remnants of royal apartments.
- Location: Right by the ferry terminals and Piazza Municipio.
- Tickets: €6 per person. Free the first Sunday of the month.
- Good To Know: Combine this visit with a ferry ride to Capri, Ischia, or Procida since the castle is right at the port.
7. Castel dell’Ovo
The oldest castle in Naples, Castel dell’Ovo (Castle of the Egg), is located on a small peninsula jutting into the sea. Legend says the Roman poet Virgil placed a magical egg in the foundations to support the city’s fate. Today, it’s free to enter and climb the ramparts.
- Location: Lungomare, Naples’ waterfront promenade — about a 15–20 minute walk from Piazza del Plebiscito.
- Tickets: Free entry.
- Why Visit: Stunning waterfront views of Vesuvius, popular with couples at sunset. Pair with a seafood dinner at one of the restaurants in Borgo Marinari nearby.
8. Piazza del Plebiscito
This is Naples’ largest and most iconic square, flanked by two major landmarks: the Royal Palace of Naples and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. It’s a pedestrian-only space where locals gather, musicians perform, and visitors take photos of the sweeping neoclassical architecture.
- How to Get There: Centrally located, about a 10-minute walk from Municipio metro stop.
- Cost: Free to visit.
- Tip: Visit in the morning for quieter photos or in the evening when the square is beautifully lit.
9. Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
Once the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples, the Royal Palace offers a peek into aristocratic life with ornate rooms, chandeliers, royal apartments, and a grand staircase. The palace also houses the National Library.
Highlights: The Throne Room, Court Theater, and the Royal Apartments decorated with tapestries and paintings.
Location: Right on Piazza del Plebiscito.
Tickets: €15 per person.
Churches & Cultural Gems in Naples
10. Basilica of San Francesco di Paola
Facing Piazza del Plebiscito, this neoclassical church was modeled after Rome’s Pantheon, with its massive dome and colonnaded portico. The interior is just as striking, with soaring ceilings and elegant chapels.
- Location: Piazza del Plebiscito (across from the Royal Palace).
- Tickets: Free entry.
- Why Visit: A quiet break from the square’s bustle, plus one of Naples’ most photogenic buildings.
11. Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)
The city’s most important church, the Duomo di San Gennaro is dedicated to Naples’ patron saint. It’s renowned for the miracle of San Gennaro’s blood, which is said to liquefy three times a year (May, September, and December) during religious ceremonies. Inside, you’ll also find stunning Gothic and Baroque chapels.
- Location: Historic center, about a 10-minute walk from Naples’ Archaeological Museum.
- Tickets: Free entry.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, home to an impressive collection of relics.
12. Sansevero Chapel & the Veiled Christ
This small chapel is one of Naples’ top cultural highlights, housing Giuseppe Sanmartino’s Veiled Christ — a marble sculpture so detailed it looks like real fabric draped over the figure. The chapel also features other incredible works and mysterious symbolism connected to Naples’ esoteric history.
- Location: Historic center, near Piazza San Domenico Maggiore.
- Tickets: €12 adults Advance online booking highly recommended — it sells out quickly.
- Good to Know: No photography is allowed inside.
13. Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)
Beneath Naples lies a labyrinth of tunnels, aqueducts, and ancient passageways dating back to the Greeks and Romans. Guided tours reveal cisterns, WWII shelters, and even underground chapels. It’s one of the most fascinating ways to connect with the city’s layered history.
- Location: Piazza San Gaetano, in the heart of the historic center.
- Tickets: €15 adults Tours last about 1.5–2 hours.
- Tip: Wear sturdy shoes — the underground passages can be narrow and uneven.
14. Catacombs of San Gennaro
Located a bit north of the city center, these early Christian catacombs stretch across two levels and include frescoes, mosaics, and burial chambers dating back to the 2nd century AD. The site is managed by a local non-profit, and visiting supports community projects in Naples.
Why Visit: Less claustrophobic than Rome’s catacombs and far more atmospheric, with open spaces and well-preserved artwork.
Location: Via Capodimonte, near the Capodimonte Museum and Park.
Tickets: €10 adults (includes entry to both San Gennaro and San Gaudioso Catacombs, valid for 12 months).
Naples Neighborhoods to Explore
15. Centro Storico (Historic Center)
The historic center of Naples is the city at its most authentic — a maze of cobblestone lanes, Baroque churches, street vendors, and centuries-old palaces. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a living museum where history and daily life intertwine. Spend time wandering, popping into artisan shops, or tasting Naples’ best street food.
- Highlights: San Gregorio Armeno (the street of nativity scene artisans), the Duomo di San Gennaro, Piazza Bellini for nightlife.
- Good to Know: Streets can be crowded and chaotic, so allow time to simply wander and soak it all in.
16. Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli)
Once considered rough-around-the-edges, the Spanish Quarter has become one of Naples’ most vibrant and photogenic neighborhoods. Narrow alleys are draped with laundry, trattorias spill onto the streets, and murals of Diego Maradona celebrate the city’s soccer hero. It’s the place to experience Naples’ energy up close.
- Best For: Authentic meals (try traditional trattorias), street art walks, and photography.
- Safety Tip: It’s safe to explore during the day and early evening, but stick to main alleys at night.
- Nearby: Just a short walk from Via Toledo, making it easy to combine with shopping.
17. Spaccanapoli
This long, narrow street literally “splits Naples in two,” and walking it is one of the best ways to experience the city’s character. Along the route, you’ll pass baroque churches, noble palaces, bakeries, and piazzas. It’s also lined with shops selling sfogliatella, limoncello, and handmade crafts.
- Don’t Miss: Gesù Nuovo Church, Santa Chiara Monastery & Cloister, Piazza San Domenico Maggiore.
- Good to Know: This is one of the busiest areas of Naples, so go early in the day if you prefer fewer crowds.
18. Via Toledo & Galleria Umberto I
One of Naples’ main thoroughfares, Via Toledo is a lively street perfect for shopping, strolling, and people-watching. It stretches from Piazza Dante to Piazza del Plebiscito, connecting many of Naples’ attractions. Midway along, you’ll find the ornate Galleria Umberto I, a 19th-century glass-domed arcade filled with cafés and shops — often compared to Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Tip: Visit in the evening when the street lights up and locals are out for a passeggiata (evening stroll).
Shopping: International brands, Italian fashion, and smaller boutiques.
Nearby: Teatro di San Carlo (Naples’ historic opera house) and Castel Nuovo are just steps away.
Food & Drink Experiences
19. Eat Naples ’ Street Food
Naples is one of the world’s great street food capitals, and tasting your way through its snacks is as essential as visiting Pompeii or Vesuvius. Vendors and tiny fry shops (friggitorie) can be found all over the city, especially in the Centro Storico and along Spaccanapoli.
- Must-Try Classics:
- Fried pizza (pizza fritta): A golden, crispy pocket filled with ricotta, salami, or mozzarella.
- Pizza a portafoglio: Folded pizza you eat on the go — often just €2–3.
- Frittatina di pasta: A deep-fried pasta ball stuffed with béchamel and ham.
- Crocchè: Creamy potato croquettes with cheese or herbs.
- Cuoppo: A paper cone of fried seafood or veggies, perfect for sharing.
- Where to Go: Look for Di Matteo, Antica Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo, or street vendors near Piazza Bellini.
20. Enjoy a Street Spritz
An Aperol spritz in Naples isn’t just a drink — it’s part of the social scene. Order one at a sidewalk bar, find a table in a lively piazza, and watch the swirl of scooters, street performers, and locals going about their day. In summer, it’s common to see people sipping spritzes outdoors well into the night.
- Best Spots: Piazza Bellini (popular with students), Piazza del Gesù, or in the Spanish Quarter for a more authentic vibe.
- Tip: Aperol is the classic, but try a Campari spritz for something more bitter or a local craft beer if you want a break from cocktails.
21. Indulge in Neapolitan Pastries
Neapolitan pastries are a point of pride and worth planning a dedicated stop. Two reign supreme:
- Sfogliatella: A flaky, shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta cream, semolina, and candied fruit. Comes in riccia(crispy) or frolla (shortcrust) versions.
- Babà: A fluffy sponge cake soaked in rum syrup, sometimes filled with whipped cream or fruit.
- Where to Try: Sfogliatella Mary (inside Galleria Umberto I) is legendary, while Pintauro on Via Toledo is historic. For babà, Scaturchio is a classic.
22. Sip an Espresso Like a Local
In Naples, coffee is fast, strong, and almost sacred. Locals drink it standing at the bar (al banco) in just a few sips. Don’t expect a long, lingering latte — a Neapolitan espresso is short, intense, and costs around €1.
Where to Go: Gran Caffè Gambrinus near Piazza del Plebiscito offers a historic, elegant experience, while small neighborhood bars give you the local feel.
By the Sea in Naples
23. Lungomare Caracciolo
The Lungomare Caracciolo is Naples’ most famous seaside promenade, stretching for several kilometers along the Bay of Naples. It’s pedestrian-friendly and lined with cafés, gelaterias, and benches where you can sit and soak in the views of Mount Vesuvius, Castel dell’Ovo, Capri, and Ischia.
- When to Go: Sunset is the most magical time, when the bay glows golden and locals gather for an evening stroll (passeggiata).
- Tip: Rent a bike or simply walk from Mergellina to Castel dell’Ovo, stopping for gelato along the way.
24. Santa Lucia Neighborhood
Tucked just behind the waterfront, the Santa Lucia district feels like a small fishing village within the city. Its narrow lanes are home to family-run trattorias and seafood restaurants where the catch of the day dictates the menu.
- What to Try: Grilled octopus, spaghetti alle vongole (clams), or impepata di cozze (peppered mussels).
- Best Experience: Combine a seafood dinner in Santa Lucia with an evening stroll back along the Lungomare for city and sea views.
- Tip: Many restaurants here fill up on weekends — consider reserving a table if you want a spot with a view.
Unique Experiences in Naples
25. Ride a Funicular to Vomero
Naples is famously hilly, and its four funicular lines are both practical transport and a fun attraction. The ride to Vomero Hill gives you sweeping views over the bay and city rooftops.
- Don’t Miss: At the top, explore Castel Sant’Elmo and the Certosa di San Martino (a former monastery turned museum). Both offer some of the best panoramic views in Naples.
- Tip: A single funicular ticket costs the same as a metro ride and can be purchased at tobacco shops or stations.
26. Teatro di San Carlo
Built in 1737, the Teatro di San Carlo is the oldest continuously active opera house in Europe — and still one of the most beautiful. Even if you don’t attend a performance, guided tours let you admire its gilded boxes, sweeping balconies, and crystal chandeliers.
- Planning Tip: Tours are offered in multiple languages and usually last about 45 minutes. Tickets can be booked online or at the theater.
- For a Splurge: If you’re visiting during opera or ballet season, attending a show here is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.
27. Watch a Napoli Soccer Game
For sports fans (and even non-fans), a Napoli soccer match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona is an electric experience. The passion of the fans, the sea of blue jerseys, and the chants that echo through the stadium create an atmosphere unlike any other.
Tip: If you can’t catch a game, watching from a local bar in the Spanish Quarter or along Via Toledo is almost as lively.
Season: Matches typically run from late August to May.
Tickets: Buy in advance through official channels or trusted resellers; bring your passport for ID.
Must-Do Experiences in Naples
If you’re short on time, these are the top highlights I recommend prioritizing:
- Pompeii
- Herculaneum
- National Archaeological Museum of Naples
- Castel Sant’Elmo
- Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
- Catacombs of San Gennaro
Final Thoughts of Naples Italy
Naples is chaotic, historic, and delicious — a city that rewards wandering as much as sightseeing. With this ultimate list of things to do in Naples (plus Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius just outside the city), you’ll experience the best of Southern Italy’s culture, history, and food.