In a nutshell
- Naples has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades and is much safer today than it used to be.
- The tourist historic center is just as safe as other major European cities — and that goes for solo female travelers too.
- Your main concern should be theft and scams. Pickpockets are very active in Naples, so stay alert in crowded spots.
- The neighborhoods to avoid are Scampia and Secondigliano — but they’re far from the center and you’re very unlikely to wander there by accident.
Is Traveling to Naples Dangerous?
If you had asked 20 years ago whether Naples was dangerous, we would have said: it depends. Today we can say: No, Naples is not dangerous.
Naples is one of the last major cities in Italy to open up to international tourism.
In the past, the city was indeed quite unsafe and notorious for petty crime and the schemes of the Camorra, the Neapolitan Mafia.
The Spanish Quarter, today one of the top highlights of Naples, was back then an absolute no-go zone that even the police avoided.
The rumor that Naples is dangerous dates back to those times. But that era is long gone, and Naples has changed radically since then.
The historic center is absolutely teeming with tourists, and you’ll feel just as safe as you would in any other major city.
Only in the evenings are there a few side alleys that feel a little eerie because they’re poorly lit. You simply avoid those.
Safety in Naples: Our Tips
Most of what you need to watch out for in Naples applies to any big city, really.
That said, when it comes to safety in Naples specifically, you should be on guard against theft and scams. Thieves here have a reputation for being especially skilled.
Here’s what to keep in mind during your time in Naples:
Keep an eye on your valuables, especially in crowded places. Pickpockets love to work in organized groups on packed buses.
Get yourself a fanny pack and stow your valuables in it — that makes life much harder for thieves. It’s better to leave your day backpack at the hotel.
Watch out for passing scooters. It does happen that a handbag gets snatched off your shoulder as one rides by. This type of theft even has its own name in Italy: scippo. If you’re carrying a bag, wear it on the side away from the street.
Don’t participate in street gambling, such as shell games. No matter how tempting it looks: you will be cheated, guaranteed.
Avoid the dark side alleys around the train station at night. They’re not particularly safe.
In the old town, you can easily take out your camera or smartphone to take photos. We had no issues whatsoever with that and even saw several photographers walking around with large cameras.
Naples Alone as a Woman
Is Naples safe for solo female travelers? Absolutely.
Our Naples insider Rebecca traveled through Naples on her own and never once felt unsafe — not even late at night.
She even ventured into some of the slightly run-down alleys in the center — where nobody paid her any attention at all. People are simply used to seeing tourists.
Dangerous Neighborhoods in Naples: Which Areas to Avoid
If you’re visiting Naples as a tourist and just want to see the city’s highlights, you’re unlikely to wander into any dangerous neighborhoods. Most hotels are located well away from these areas too.
Scampia and Secondigliano, in the north of Naples, have a notorious reputation. These neighborhoods suffer from widespread poverty and crime, including violent crime.
They became especially well known as the filming location for the series Gomorrah, which revolves around the schemes of the Neapolitan Mafia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Naples
Is Naples safe at night?
Yes, it really is. We were out in the old town in the evenings and never felt unsafe — it’s full of restaurants and bars and there’s always something going on late into the night. Some of the side alleys can feel a bit sketchy, though, so we just avoided those.
Which neighborhoods should you avoid in Naples?
The areas to steer clear of are Scampia and Secondigliano. They’re located far from the main attractions, so you’re very unlikely to wander into them by accident.
Is it currently dangerous to travel to Naples?
If this question refers to Mount Vesuvius, don’t worry: Vesuvius is one of the most closely monitored volcanoes on Earth. If an eruption is imminent, scientists can predict it a few days in advance. The last eruption was 80 years ago and did not affect Naples.
Is traveling to Ischia dangerous?
Not at all. The port of Naples is modern and busy with tourists heading to Ischia or the Amalfi Coast. From the airport, you can easily reach the port by taxi or the Alibus.
