Things to Do in Naples, Italy: Top Attractions & Highlights

Buy Tickets for Naples Attractions Online

Some of Naples’ attractions can only be visited on a guided tour.

For example, the Catacombs, Napoli Sotterranea, or the Galleria Borbonica.

For these highlights, you should definitely book your tickets online. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait at the entrance until the next tour starts and hope there are still spots available.

For these Naples highlights, it’s worth buying your ticket in advance:

The Best Things to Do in Naples on a Map

Naples has approximately one million residents, making it one of the largest cities in Italy. The vast majority of Naples’ attractions, however, are within the old town, and you can easily explore them on foot.

To give you a rough overview of how everything is spread out, we’ve marked all the major sights in Naples on a map.

Naples Weekend: These Are the Sights You Can Cover in Two Days

For us, Naples is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

We spent a total of two days in Naples and additional days in Pompeii, on Mount Vesuvius, and along the Amalfi Coast.

And we can say with confidence: two full days is a great amount of time for sightseeing in Naples.

These Naples highlights you can fit into two days:

• The Spaccanapoli street
• Napoli Sotterranea
• The Christmas Alley (Via San Gregorio Armeno)
• The Catacombs of San Gennaro
• The Galleria Umberto I
• Castel Sant’Elmo (for the best view!)
• The Cappella Sansevero
• The Toledo Metro Station
• The Spanish Quarter, including the Murales di Maradona
• The Sanità neighborhood

Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry — many of these highlights are neighborhoods and streets you simply stroll through.

Plus, all of these points of interest are close to one another, right within the city center.

Naples Sights for Those Who Have More Time

An even better amount of time for a stay in Naples is four to five days, so you can also see Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. Or maybe you’d like to spend a few more days relaxing at the beach after exploring the city.

These Naples must-sees are worth adding if you’re staying for more than just two days:

• Pompeii
• Mount Vesuvius
• the National Archaeological Museum
• Chiostro Santa Chiara
• the Galleria Borbonica
• the Amalfi Coast

Spaccanapoli – Naples' Most Iconic Street

What you need to know: Spaccanapoli is the most famous street in Naples. Literally translated, the name means “Naples splitter” — it cuts straight through the center, dividing it into two halves, and stretches about two miles long. Along it you’ll find countless restaurants, quirky shops, and street food stands.

Is it worth it: Spaccanapoli is loud, chaotic, and crowded — absolutely Naples. The street is simply a must-see and the perfect starting point for exploring the city.

Our tip: Spaccanapoli is just a nickname and actually consists of several consecutive streets. On a map, you’ll need to look for Via Benedetto Croce or Via Vicaria Vecchia.

The Christmas Alley – Via San Gregorio Armeno

What you need to know: Via San Gregorio Armeno, also known as the Christmas Alley, is a narrow lane that branches off from Spaccanapoli. As far back as antiquity, clay figures of Roman gods were crafted on this street — today you can buy handmade nativity figurines here year-round. But not just Mary and Joseph — they’re actually pretty rare here. Instead, it’s all kinds of celebrities. Harry and Meghan, Michael Jackson, or Donald Trump with a bloody ear — in Neapolitan households, they all find a spot in the Christmas nativity scene.

Is it worth it: Absolutely. The Christmas Alley is truly one of a kind and part of Naples’ folklore. It’s a must-see!

Our tip: The figurines aren’t even particularly expensive and make for great souvenirs from Naples. You can also buy an entire nativity scene setup, complete with a water mill, little houses, and more. They’ll ship it directly to your home, so you don’t have to worry about transporting it on the plane.

The Spanish Quarter

What you need to know: Until the late 1990s, the Spanish Quarter was a true no-go zone in Naples. Even the police didn’t venture in. Today, the narrow canyon-like streets are a tourist attraction, full of trattorias, small shops, colorful laundry lines, and street art. Just wander through the alleys and soak it all in.

Is it worth it: Yes! The Spanish Quarter is a must among the things to do in Naples.

Our tip: Make sure to visit the Murales di Maradona. It’s a true pilgrimage site in Naples. You can find it marked on Google Maps.

Sanità – Naples as the Neapolitans Know It

What you need to know: The Sanità neighborhood is the real Naples — the kind that few tourists ever stumble into. It sits right next to the old town and is even more chaotic and even louder. Yes, that’s possible! Here you’ll actually see kids zooming around three to a Vespa, fruit vendors with mountains of peaches and melons, and colorfully blinking little shrines to the saints. Sanità is also packed with street art — nearly every corner is Instagram-worthy.

Is it worth it: It’s a rougher experience than the touristy old town, but completely safe. If you want to experience Naples off the beaten path, this is the place to go.

Our tip: The Catacombs of San Gennaro are located in the Sanità neighborhood. We explored the area after our visit, walking back to the old town on foot. Just a heads-up — the scooter riders here are truly death-defying.

Napoli Sotterranea – Naples Underground

What you need to know: Among the things to do in Naples, Napoli Sotterranea at Piazza San Gaetano is one of the absolute highlights. It’s an underground labyrinth of tunnels, narrow staircases, and Roman cisterns that is over 2,400 years old. You’re guided through the tunnels in a group, where you’ll also get to see the remains of a Roman theater.

Is it worth it: For us, the Napoli Sotterranea tour was a true highlight in Naples. It’s simply a pretty unique experience and gives you great insight into the city’s rich history.

Our tip: You should definitely reserve tickets online — otherwise you’ll be stuck waiting in line for a long time.

To the Napoli Sotterranea Tour

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  Napoli Sotterranea: Our Tips for the Naples Underground

The Catacombs of San Gennaro

What you need to know: Naples has several catacombs, but the Catacombs of San Gennaro are the largest. They’re truly impressive and consist of two levels. There are around 2,000 burial sites and niche graves dating from the early centuries of Christianity. What also makes the catacombs worth seeing are the elaborate light installations that illuminate the tunnels.

Is it worth it: Absolutely. The Catacombs of San Gennaro were one of the absolute highlights of Naples for us too. Not least because the guide does a fantastic job, is incredibly knowledgeable, and we had a very small group. Tours are only available in English and Italian, though.

Our tip: The catacombs are located in the Sanità neighborhood, which borders directly on the city center. The neighborhood is Naples at its purest — a little rough around the edges, but full of life and completely safe. You should definitely combine a visit to the catacombs with a walk through the neighborhood!

To the San Gennaro Catacombs Ticket
Background on the Catacombs of San Gennaro:

The catacombs fell into disrepair for centuries, until a group of young locals from the Sanità neighborhood came together and founded the association “La Paranza.” They made it their mission to restore neglected Naples landmarks, and have since been running the catacombs with the support of international sponsors.

We found the Catacombs of San Gennaro to be even more impressive, and the tour better executed, than many other public sights in Naples. Hats off!

The young men and women from the association are also the ones who lead the tours through the catacombs. A portion of the proceeds goes toward social projects aimed at keeping children away from organized crime. So by buying a ticket, you’re contributing to the whole initiative.

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  Naples Catacombs: Everything You Need to Know

Galleria Borbonica – The King's Escape Routes

What you need to know: The Galleria Borbonica wasn’t rediscovered until 2005, after lying dormant beneath the city for several decades. In the 19th century, this network of underground passages was built as an escape route for the king. The tunnels were mainly used as air raid shelters during World War II, and later as a storage space for old cars and motorcycles. You can still see them there today — along with everyday objects from the wartime era.

Is it worth it: Unfortunately we didn’t manage to visit the Galleria, but it’ll be the very first thing we do next time we’re in Naples!

Our tip: The Galleria Borbonica is very popular, so you should book tickets in advance. That way you’ll save yourself the wait at the entrance.

To the Galleria Borbonica Ticket

The Cappella Sansevero

What you need to know: Right in the middle of Naples’ historic center stands this rather unassuming chapel from the outside — yet it’s one of the most important sights in Naples. Inside the chapel are some of the most famous sculptures ever created, including the “Veiled Christ.” This single, incredibly impressive statue alone makes a visit worthwhile. The chapel also has a very esoteric feel overall, with several Masonic symbols throughout.

Is it worth it: If you have a soft spot for esotericism and art history, it’s absolutely worth it. The Veiled Christ is truly stunning.

Our tip: Because the chapel is small and only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside at a time, there can be long lines. It’s worth booking a time slot online in advance. That way you can go straight to the online ticket line, which is much shorter.

To the Online Ticket for the Cappella Sansevero

Castel Sant'Elmo Fortress

What you should know: Castel Sant’Elmo offers the best views of Naples. The fortress sits on the Vomero hill, one of Naples’ more upscale neighborhoods. Inside the castle itself there isn’t a whole lot to see — the main attraction is the sweeping panorama in every direction. The fastest way to get up there is by funicular from the Montesanto stop, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the Toledo metro station. Admission is 5 euros, paid on-site.

Is it worth it: For the ultimate view of Naples, absolutely! There are no other vantage points in the city that give you such a sweeping look over Naples. Plus, the steep ride up on the historic funicular is quite the experience.

Note: The fortress closes as early as 6:30 PM. Unfortunately, you can only capture sunset shots before that time in winter.

Murales di Maradona

What you need to know: In Naples, soccer and religion go hand in hand. And the late Diego Maradona is Naples’ undisputed soccer hero — essentially the equivalent of a saint. All over the city you’ll find murals, flags, T-shirts, and little altars dedicated to Diego. But the most famous tribute is the Murales di Maradona in the Spanish Quarter. It was painted in 1990 by local street artist Marco Filiardi, with the support of the neighborhood’s residents. Together they built the scaffolding and lit the work at night using the headlights of their own cars. Today, the enormous mural is a true pilgrimage site in Naples.

Is it worth it: You don’t have to be a soccer fan for it to be worth it. The Maradona hype in Naples is something truly special and part of Neapolitan folklore. You have to see it to understand it!

Our tip: If you keep heading uphill through the Spanish Quarter, you’ll eventually reach the mural. Or just follow the music!

Toledo Metro Station – The Most Beautiful Subway Station in Europe

What you need to know: Naples has several Stazioni dell’Arte — art metro stations. The most impressive and most famous is Toledo station on Line 1. In the media, it’s often called the most beautiful subway station in Europe. The designs revolve around the themes of water and light, featuring walls of mosaic tiles and elaborate light installations by US lighting designer Robert Wilson.

Is it worth it: To see the really stunning designs, you need to go down to the platforms, which means buying a metro ticket for €1.30. We did it just to see the famous installation!

Our tip: Alternatively, you can time your visit so that you actually need to take the metro to your next destination afterward. This works well, for example, if you’re visiting the Spanish Quarter and the National Archaeological Museum is next on your list — it’s just two metro stops away. Or if your accommodation in Naples is along Line 1.

Galleria Umberto I

What you need to know: The Galleria Umberto I is a historic shopping arcade in downtown Naples. It strongly resembles the grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan and is full of shops — though not quite as upscale as in Milan. It consists of four corridors and is visited mainly by tourists. The enormous glass ceiling in particular is seriously impressive.

Is it worth it: The Galleria Umberto I is one of Naples’ standout highlights. Not necessarily for the shops, but definitely for the stunning hall itself.

Our tip: Inside the Galleria, Italy’s largest bookstore opened in 2024 — the Mondadori Bookstore. You should definitely pop in for a look: there are really stylish seating nooks, ornate plaster ceilings, colorful murals, and a super cool spiral staircase lined with books.

Piazza Plebiscito

What you should know: Piazza Plebiscito is the largest and most famous square in the city. At 25,000 square meters, it’s even one of the largest squares in Italy. The semicircular colonnade surrounding the square is somewhat reminiscent of St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, and the church of San Francesco di Paola recalls the Pantheon in Rome. The Royal Palace of Naples also stands directly on the square.

Is it worth it: You don’t need to make a special trip just for Piazza Plebiscito. But if you happen to be in the area — near the Spanish Quarter or the harbor — a stroll across the square is well worth it.

Our tip: On the northern side of the Piazza sits the historic Caffè Gambrinus. Here, beneath stucco ceilings and surrounded by elegant furnishings, you can try cappuccino and classic Neapolitan pastries — though at fairly steep prices.

The Santa Chiara Cloister Garden

What you need to know: Right in the middle of the old town’s hustle and bustle, there’s a hidden oasis: the garden of the Santa Chiara monastery. Once you’re inside, you’d never know the chaos of the old town is just outside. The garden is filled with mandarin and lemon trees, and the walls, columns, and benches are decorated with colorful, hand-painted tiles. A cloister walkway runs around the garden, adorned with colorful frescoes depicting scenes from everyday life in old Naples.

Is it worth it: It’s worth it if you’re staying in Naples for more than just two days. There’s already plenty to see in the surrounding lanes near the monastery.

Our tip: Admission is 7 euros and tickets are only available on-site. Your best bet is to come in the morning or late afternoon to avoid lines.

Castel Nuovo

What you should know: Naples’ Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, sits right on the harbor and is another landmark of the city. The castle was built during Spanish rule in the 13th century and served as the royal residence. Inside the castle you’ll find, among other things, the Naples City History Museum. You can also climb to the top of one of the towers.

Is it worth it: We only saw the castle from the outside, so we can’t speak to what’s inside. From the outside, though, it looked very well-maintained and in great condition.

Our tip: Right next to the castle you’ll find Piazza Plebiscito, the Royal Palace, and the Galleria Umberto I. So you can take in a lot of highlights in one go in this area.

The National Archaeological Museum

What you need to know: Naples is approximately 2,700 years old, so there’s a lot to discover in the city’s history museums. The most famous is the National Archaeological Museum, which is also one of the most important archaeological museums in the world. On display are Greek and Roman sculptures, vases, and everyday objects, including items from Pompeii.

Is it worth it: If you’re staying in Naples for more than just two days, you should definitely visit the museum — especially if Pompeii is also on your itinerary.

Our tip: In June and July, it’s worth visiting the museum from 7 PM onward. Evening admission drops to just €2 per person, and the museum stays open until 11 PM. Also, on the first Sunday of every month, admission is free all day long.

Mount Vesuvius

What you need to know: Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on the European mainland. Standing at the crater’s rim, you can look straight down into the enormous opening — steam even rises from the cracks in the rock! On top of that, you get an amazing view of the entire Gulf of Naples from up there. From the ticket checkpoint, you still have about a 30-minute uphill walk before you reach the crater rim.

Is it worth it: Absolutely. From Naples, you need about half a day to visit Vesuvius.

Our tip: Book a bus tour from Naples. These buses are the only ones allowed to go all the way up to the ticket checkpoint. Private cars are not permitted to drive all the way up and must park halfway — from there, you continue by bus. We did the combo tour with Pompeii — if you’re short on time, it’s a great way to see both Naples highlights in one day.

To the Bus Tour to Vesuvius from Naples

To the Vesuvius and Pompeii Combo Tour

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The Ancient City of Pompeii

What you need to know: Pompeii is about an hour from the center of Naples. It’s the Roman city that was caught off guard by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and buried completely. There are temples, paved streets, taverns, an amphitheater, and even plaster casts of the bodies of those who were buried. Nowhere else will you get such a vivid glimpse into the daily life of people who lived 2,000 years ago.

Is it worth it: Absolutely. Pompeii is something everyone should see at least once. That said, you won’t be able to see everything in a single day — you need at least two full days for Pompeii. But even just one afternoon is still better than nothing.

Our tip: We explored Pompeii on our own with an audio guide and regretted it. The site is simply enormous, and even with an audio guide and a map, you just don’t know where to start. Next time, we’d definitely do it with a proper guided tour.

To the Pompeii Tour with Transfer and Guide

The Amalfi Coast

What you need to know: The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes we’ve ever seen. It stretches about 25 miles long and is dotted with beautiful, if very popular, villages: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello. From Naples, a day trip is very doable, since the Amalfi Coast is only about 1.5 hours south of the city.

Is it worth it: The Amalfi Coast is incredibly crowded from May through October. But the scenery is so stunning that we simply couldn’t discourage anyone from visiting. Just be prepared for very packed streets. And high prices.

Our tip: You’ll take so many photos and videos along the Amalfi Coast that your battery will eventually give out. Ours did. But there really is just so much to photograph! We strongly recommend bringing a power bank.

To the Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast from Naples

General Tips for Sightseeing in Naples

Don't Count on the Alibus to Get from the Airport to the City

There is a shuttle bus that runs from the Naples airport into the city and to the harbor: the Alibus.

However, we can’t recommend it — it’s always incredibly crowded. There’s always a long line at the stop, and you have to hope you can squeeze onto the next bus. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait for the one after that.

We experienced this both at the airport and at the main train station, where the bus departs on its way back to the airport. If you’re in a hurry, that’s a real problem.

We much prefer recommending a taxi. We shared a cab with other travelers and got from the airport to the city in no time for just €5 per person.

There are no other transportation options to get from the airport into the city.

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  Naples Airport Transfer: How to Get into the City

Stay Along Corso Umberto I or in the Old Town

Good places to stay in Naples can be found along the Corso Umberto I, where we stayed as well. It’s a wide, shop-lined street that runs alongside the old town.

This location is especially worthwhile if you plan to take day trips during your stay — for example to Vesuvius or the Amalfi Coast. All tour buses and trains depart from the main train station, which is easily walkable from here. You can also reach the highlights quickly: Spaccanapoli is just a few minutes’ walk away.

If you’re only going to be in Naples itself, though, staying in the pedestrian zone of the old town is also a great option.

Our accommodation recommendations in Naples:
B&B La Terrazza: super central on Corso Umberto I, everything reachable on foot, great rooftop terrace.

Relais della Porta: upscale boutique hotel, right next to the famous Toledo metro station.

Hotel Piazza Bellini: modern rooms with a lovely courtyard, right in the heart of the old town. Piazza Bellini is a popular nightlife spot in Naples.

Safety in Naples

The rumor that Naples is dangerous refuses to die.

But the city has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few decades and is now just as tourist-friendly and safe as many other cities in Italy.

Just watch out for pickpockets and don’t let yourself get drawn into street gambling games.

You can find more information and tips in our article on safety in Naples.

Getting Around Naples

In Naples, you don’t need a car. Quite the contrary — we strongly advise against driving, as Naples traffic is pure chaos.

The vast majority of Naples’ highlights are easily reachable on foot. Alternatively, there’s a well-functioning bus and metro network, as well as a funicular that takes you up to the Vomero hill.

The fare structure for public transit is a bit complicated. Here’s a breakdown:

• Single ride (using only one mode of transport, e.g. metro only): €1.30
• Single ride (using multiple modes of transport, e.g. metro then bus or funicular): €1.80
• There’s also a basic ticket for trips within Naples on suburban lines (biglietto Liv. 2). That costs €1.50.

Yes, a little confusing.

To keep it simple: for Line 1, which is the most useful for tourists, you’ll need the €1.30 or €1.80 ticket.

You can buy tickets at vending machines in the metro stations or at the nearest newsstand. The machines are available in English too.

Eating Pizza in Naples

Everyone who visits Naples has to try the pizza here.

No matter where you’ve had Neapolitan pizza before — it never tastes the same as in Naples. Guaranteed!

You really can’t go wrong with pizza anywhere in Naples. It’s good everywhere. That said, there are a few pizzerias that get an enormous amount of hype — for example, Antica Pizzeria da Michele.

We didn’t try the pizza there because the insanely long line put us off. There are only a few tables inside and you can’t make a reservation.

Another cult-status pizzeria is Pizzeria Gino e Totò Sorbillo. That one we did try.

You can’t make a reservation here either — you have to add your name to a waitlist at the entrance. But the pizzeria is bigger and has more tables. We waited about half an hour before we could get in.

A pizza Margherita here costs €6.50 and tastes incredible. Possibly the best pizza we’ve ever had!

Our insider tip for a pizzeria in Naples:

If you don’t feel like waiting but still want an outstanding pizza, head to the tiny pizzeria Passiona Mij.

It’s tucked away on an unassuming side street where tourists rarely wander.

There are only four tables, and the menu features only pizza and a few Neapolitan appetizers. But a pizza Margherita here costs just €4 — and it tastes heavenly!

Since barely anyone comes by, there’s never a wait. We ordered right away and the pizza was ready in 5 minutes. Fantastic!