With its charming seafront, thousand-year-old historic center, and vibrant energy, Naples (Napoli) is a wonderful destination to explore and the ideal starting point for visiting the entire Campania region.
From this city in southern Italy, ferries and hydrofoils take you to the splendid islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida, each with their own unique charm. Naples is also the gateway to the magical Amalfi Coast and picturesque Sorrento.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bay of Naples, discover hidden treasures, and create unforgettable memories in this extraordinary city on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Here's what you'll find in this article
How to get to Naples: Discover the various ways to reach Naples, including flights, high-speed trains and ferries from major Italian cities.
Getting around: The best transport options for getting around the city, including the subway, buses and taxis.
Ticket reservations: Tickets for museums, attractions and public transport to avoid queues and save time.
Main attractions and activities: All the most important sights, including historical museums and churches as well as what to see along the fascinating narrow streets of the city center.
One-day itinerary: Follow our recommended itinerary to discover the best of Naples in just one day, without missing anything important.
What to eat in Naples: Try traditional Neapolitan dishes in the best restaurants and find out where to experience authentic Neapolitan pizza.
What to buy: Find the best souvenirs and local products, from handcrafted Christmas nativity scenes to tasty culinary delights to take a piece of Napoli home with you.
How to get to Naples
Naples is located on the coast of southern Italy and is easily reachable from anywhere in the country.
By plane
Naples-Capodichino Airport (NAP) is just four miles from the city center and offers direct connections to numerous cities in Europe and around the world.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or the Alibus shuttle service that will take you directly to the heart of Naples. It stops at the central train station Naples Piazza Garibaldi as well as inside the port at Molo Beverello and Calata di Massa.
By train
Napoli Centrale train station is located in Piazza Garibaldi.
The Frecciarossa and Italo high-speed trains arrive here, connecting Naples to Rome in just over an hour, and to Milan in about four hours.
The station is well connected to the local underground subway (Metro) network and other forms of public transport, making it easy to get around the city and the surrounding metropolitan area.
By car
For those arriving by car, Naples is well connected from the north via the A1 highway (Autostrada del Sole) and from the south with the A3 highway.
Once in the city, you can park in one of the numerous public and private parking lots available.
By bus
The main bus operators offer regular services to Naples from the major Italian cities, with arrivals at the bus terminal in Piazza Garibaldi.
By boat
The port of Naples is one of the main ports in the Mediterranean, served by numerous shipping companies that connect the city with islands in the Gulf of Naples and other maritime destinations.
Many cruise ships also stop in Naples.
Getting around Naples
In Naples the best advice is undoubtedly to rely on public transport and not drive into the center. If you’re coming with a car you can leave it in one of the paid parking lots on the outskirts of the city.
Subway (Metro)
Subway (metro)
The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city. Lines 1 and 2 connect the main tourist attractions and neighborhoods.
Line 1 is also famously known as the "art subway” because its stations are decorated with works by contemporary artists.
Buses, trams and funiculars
Buses and trams are also a part of the city’s public transportation network, with numerous lines covering every corner of the city. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at tobacconists, newsstands, and metro stations.
If you’re looking for stunning panoramas of the city, the Naples funiculars are a must. They connect the city center with the surrounding hills and offer breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples.
Taxis
For added flexibility, taxis are easily available and are a convenient option, especially for those traveling in groups or with heavy luggage.
On foot
Of course, one of the most leisurely ways to explore the city is by wandering on foot to admire all the beauty of the historic center.
The port of Naples
The port of Naples is one of the most important and busiest in the Mediterranean. Located in the Bay of Naples, it extends along the entire east coast. The port is home to some famous monuments, such as the oldest castle in the city, Castel dell’Ovo, whose name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil. The iconic Mount Vesuvius is also visible from the port of Naples.
The port’s passenger terminals are located right in the city’s main metropolitan area. Passengers board departing vessels from a few different main areas: Molo Beverello, Calata di Massa, and the Cruise Terminal.
Molo Beverello
Molo Beverello is the main embarkation point for hydrofoils, offering fast and frequent connections to Capri, Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, and in the summer to the Amalfi Coast.
This pier is centrally located near Piazza Municipio and is easily accessible by walking from the historic center.
You can also reach the pier with Metro Line 1 ("Municipio" stop) and there’s a dedicated exit for Molo Beverello. It’s also the last stop on the Alibus shuttle line that starts at Naples Capodichino airport.
Vessels with the companies Snav, NLG, and Alilauro all depart from Molo Beverello.
Calata Porta di Massa
Calata Porta di Massa is mainly used by ferries and larger ships that carry both passengers and vehicles.
This pier is located slightly east of Molo Beverello but is still easily accessible from the city center.
The ferries that leave from Calata di Massa connect Naples with Ischia, Capri, Procida, and passengers can also embark vehicles. Long-distance ferries depart from the adjacent Immacolatella quay and take passengers to Sicily (Palermo and Catania), Sardinia (Cagliari), the Aeolian Islands (Stromboli, Lipari), Panarea, and Ponza.
The main companies that use this area of the port are Caremar, Grandi Navi Veloci, Grimaldi Lines and Tirrenia. Services at the pier include ticket offices, refreshments, and waiting areas.
Cruise Terminal
The Naples Cruise Terminal is located at Molo Angioino, between Molo Beverello and Calata di Massa. It hosts the numerous cruise ships that stop in Napoli. This modern and well-equipped terminal has reception services for cruise passengers, duty-free shops, restaurants, and areas for relaxing.
Cruise passengers can easily disembark here and take dedicated shuttles or public transport to reach the city center and main tourist attractions.
Other ports
The port of Pozzuoli lies to the north of Naples and is where Caremar and Medmar ferries and hydrofoils depart for Ischia and Procida.
This port can be very convenient for those traveling by car because it allows passengers to bypass the traffic of downtown Naples.
The port of Mergellina is used for private boats.
What to see in Naples: places you can’t miss
Naples contains a wealth of historical, artistic, and cultural treasures. There are many historical places to visit covering many different eras, spanning across ancient Greek and Rome, the Baroque, the Renaissance, up to more modern times. Start your exploration in the historic center, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Here, you can walk along the iconic street known as Spaccanapoli (literally “splits Naples”), which cuts the ancient heart of the city in two.
Visit the Duomo di Napoli, the city’s world-famous cathedral that houses an ampoule with the famous miraculous blood of San Gennaro. The San Severo Chapel (Cappella Sansevero), with its Veiled Christ, is another unmissable jewel. Make sure you also check out the National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Roman artifacts, including treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The majestic Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) and the San Carlo Theatre, the oldest opera house in Europe, are two other essential stops. The Royal Palace was used as a residence by the House of Bourbon in the 18th century and 19th century. For spectacular views of the Bay of Naples, head to Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest castle in Napoli, located along the Lungomare Caracciolo seafront.
The Certosa di San Martino, located on the Vomero hill, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and Vesuvius.
One-day itinerary in Naples
While it’s not possible to visit the entire city of Naples in just one day, this itinerary gives you the chance to explore the historic center and its most iconic sights.
Morning
Breakfast and Spaccanapoli
Start your day with a typical Neapolitan breakfast. Head to one of the historic pastry shops such as Scaturchio or Sfogliatella Mary to enjoy a delicious traditional local pastry specialty accompanied by an iconic Neapolitan espresso.
Duomo and Capella Sansevero
After breakfast, visit the Sansevero Chapel, which houses the Veiled Christ, one of the most fascinating and mysterious sculptural works in the world.
Then continue towards the Naples Duomo Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of San Gennaro), famous for its splendid Gothic architecture as well as the relic of the blood of San Gennaro.
National Archaeological Museum
Visit the MAN museum, which is one of the most important archeology museums in the world.
Here you can admire a vast collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including sculptures, mosaics and frescoes that offer a detailed look at life in ancient Rome.
Lunch
Neapolitan pizza
Naples is famous for its pizza, so for lunch you can't miss the chance to taste an authentic one.
Two pizzerias, Da Michele and Sorbillo, are among the most famous, but any pizzeria in the historic center will offer you an unforgettable experience.
Afternoon
Piazza del Plebiscito and Royal Palace
After lunch, head towards Piazza del Plebiscito by walking along the lively Via Toledo. Visit the nearby Royal Palace, which offers a broad overview of the history and art of the Bourbon period. Admire the richly decorated interior and stunning views of the square.
San Carlo Theater and Umberto I Gallery
Next to the Royal Palace is the San Carlo Theater, the oldest opera house in Europe, where you can take a guided tour to discover its history and its extraordinary architecture. Then take a stroll through the nearby Galleria Umberto I, which is a beautiful covered shopping arcade that’s perfect for shopping or simply admiring its Art Nouveau architecture.
Castel dell'Ovo and Lungomare Caracciolo
Continue towards Castel dell'Ovo, located on a small island connected to the mainland. This ancient castle offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples. After your visit, stroll along Lungomare Caracciolo, an enchanting coastal walk that’s ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sea view.
Evening
Aperitif in Vomero: Hop on the funicular to reach the Vomero district, a hilly area with a scenic view over the city. Here, you can enjoy an aperitivo in one of the many bars with panoramic terraces, such as those in Via Scarlatti or Via Luca Giordano.
Dinner: Choose a restaurant in Vomero or return to the city center.
The historic marina area of Borgo Marinari, located near Castel dell'Ovo, has restaurants with fresh fish specialties and an enchanting view of the sea.
End your day admiring the sunset over the Bay of Naples, a view that will leave you with an indelible memory of this extraordinary city.
One-week itinerary in Naples and the surrounding area
Day 1: Historic center of Naples
Morning
Breakfast in Piazza Bellini
Start your week with a typical Neapolitan breakfast, enjoying a sfogliatella pastry and an espresso at Scaturchio Pasticceria pastry shop near Piazza Bellini.
Spaccanapoli and Underground Naples
Stroll along Spaccanapoli, visiting famous attractions such as the Monastery of Santa Chiara and the Church of Gesù Nuovo. Take a tour of Underground Naples to discover the city hidden beneath the streets.
Lunch
Pizza on Via dei Tribunali
Enjoy a Neapolitan pizza at Sorbillo or Di Matteo on the historic Via dei Tribunali.
Afternoon
Naples Duomo Cathedral and Sansevero Chapel
Visit the Cathedral of Naples and the Sansevero Chapel, where you can admire the Veiled Christ.
National Archeological Museum
Dedicate the afternoon to visiting the National Archaeological Museum, exploring the treasures of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Evening
Aperitif in Chiaia
End the day with an aperitivo in the Chiaia district.
Dinner on the waterfront
Dine in one of the restaurants along Lungomare Caracciolo.
Day 2: Pompeii and Vesuvius
Morning
Pompeii
Take a Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale train station to reach Pompeii and visit the archaeological site. We recommend you take a guided tour to have a more in-depth understanding of the ancient ruins.
Lunch
Have lunch at Capuona Restaurant, whose location recalls the houses of Pompeii, with a menu that’s based on ancient Roman recipes.
Afternoon
Take the bus from Pompeii and head to Mount Vesuvius for a guided tour of the crater.
Day 3: Capri
Take a hydrofoil to Capri and spend a day on the island, following this itinerary to visit Capri in one day.
Day 4: Naples and Pozzuoli
Morning
Castel dell'Ovo and Lungomare
Visit the Castel dell'Ovo and stroll along the Lungomare Caracciolo.
Lunch
Lunch in Pozzuoli
Take the train to Pozzuoli and have lunch in a fish restaurant.
Afternoon
Flavian Amphitheater and Solfatara
Visit the Flavian Amphitheater and the Solfatara crater.
Evening
Dinner in Naples
Have dinner in a traditional trattoria.
Day 5: Amalfi Coast
Morning
Depart for Amalfi
Take a hydrofoil to Amalfi from Molo Beverello pier, or catch a bus to Amalfi from the Varco Immacolattella bus terminus.
Amalfi and Ravello
Visit the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea in Amalfi and then take a bus to Ravello, where you can admire Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
Lunch
Have lunch in Ravello and then return to Amalfi, or opt for a seaside lunch in an Amalfi restaurant or a street-food lunch of cuoppo: a mixed fry served in a paper cone.
From Amalfi take a bus or hydrofoil to Positano.
Afternoon
Take a walk in Positano and treat yourself to an aperitif before taking the hydrofoil back to Naples.
Day 6: Procida
Take a hydrofoil and spend the day exploring Procida.
What to buy in Naples
In addition to being full of history and culture, Naples is also a vibrant center of unique artisan traditions.
In this section, we’ll explore the historic workshops where master artisans create works of art ranging from the famous nativity scenes to hand-painted ceramics, carrying on ancient knowledge with passion and creativity.
Artisan ceramics
Capodimonte ceramics are famous throughout the world for their quality and beauty.
These objects include vases, plates, figures, and porcelain flowers.
You can find these treasures at shops specialized in "Ceramiche di Vietri" which also offer splendid colorful ceramics from Vietri sul Mare.
Buffalo mozzarella and other cheeses
You absolutely can’t leave Naples without trying the famous buffalo mozzarella from Campania.
Visit local markets such as the Porta Nolana Market or the Pignasecca Market to find the freshest mozzarella. Other local cheeses like Provolone del Monaco are also great choices.
If you travel by plane, keep in mind that at the airport there is a shop after the security checks where you can buy mozzarella!
Traditional desserts
Traditional Neapolitan desserts include pastiera, babà al rum and sfogliatelle, all of which are musts.
You can buy these delights in renowned pastry shops such as Scaturchio or Pasticceria Attanasio, which also offer travel packs.
Nativity art
Naples is famous for its handcrafted nativity scenes, especially those produced along Via San Gregorio Armeno, known as the "street of nativity scenes.”
Here, you’ll find shops selling handmade nativity figures, from classic shepherd figurines to contemporary characters, perfect for adding to your home nativity scene.
Along this road you can also find the traditional Neapolitan lucky horns in all shapes and sizes.
Leather gloves
Neapolitan leather gloves are famous for their quality craftsmanship.
The "Omega Guanti" shop in Piazza Dante is renowned for its large selection of handmade gloves.
Shoes and bags
The city is also famous for its handcrafted shoes and leather bags.
Visit local boutiques in the Spanish Quarter to find handmade footwear and uniquely designed bags.
Limoncello
Limoncello is one of Campania's most loved liqueurs.
Made with lemons from the Amalfi Coast, this after-dinner liqueur can be purchased in many wine bars and specialized shops such as "Limoncello di Capri" or "La Conca" in Sorrento.
Cameos
Cameos are another traditional item from this area.
These jewels, carved in shell or coral, are one-of-a-kind pieces with great artistic value.
Visit specialized jewelry stores like "Ascione" to find high-quality cameos.
What to eat in Naples (and where)
Naples is a vibrant city that's rich in history yet also famous throughout the world for its exceptional culinary traditions. Here you can discover traditional Neapolitan dishes, from timeless classics such as Margherita pizza to irresistible desserts such as sfogliatella. We’ll guide you to the best places to enjoy it all. Get ready for a delicious journey through the authentic flavors of Naples!
Neapolitan pizza
Neapolitan pizza is known throughout the world, and enjoying it in one of the city's historic pizzerias is a must. Some of the most famous pizzerias include Antica Pizzeria da Michele, famous for its Margherita and Marinara pizza; and Pizzeria Sorbillo on Via dei Tribunali. There are so many choices, that we recommend you read this article on where to eat pizza in Naples.
Buffalo mozzarella and other cheeses
For a taste of the best buffalo mozzarella from Campania, visit "La Latteria Sorrentina" or "La Tramontina,” where you can find fresh, authentic products.
These shops also offer other local cheeses such as Provolone del Monaco, perfect to enjoy with a glass of Campania wine.
Seafood dishes
Naples is a seaside city, and its fish dishes are among the best in Italy.
“Da Dora” restaurant in Via Ferdinando Palasciano is famous for its linguine with clams and fresh catch of the day. “Il Transatlantico" on the Lungomare boardwalk also offers a spectacular view of the Gulf of Naples, and is the perfect place for enjoying dishes such as fish soup and seafood risotto.
The restaurants at Borgo Marinari marina all offer seafood dishes with an enchanting view.
Fried foods
Neapolitan fried foods are another delightful must.
Fry shops such as "La Masardona" or "Adde Figliole" are famous for their fried pizza, which is stuffed with ricotta, cicoli (pork cracklings), and pepper.
Another specialty is the "cuoppo", a paper cone with a mix of fried foods such as zeppoline, arancini, and potato croquettes. You can try this specialty at "Di Matteo" and "Passione di Sofì.”
Sweets
Naples is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Sfogliatelle pastries are a specialty to try at the Attanasio Pasticceria near the Napoli Centrale train station.
For a perfect babà, soft and soaked in rum, visit the historic "Pasticceria Scaturchio" pastry shop in Piazza San Domenico Maggiore.
Make sure you also taste the pastiera, a typical Easter dessert made with cooked wheat, ricotta and citrus flavors, available in many pastry shops in the city.
Pasta and traditional dishes
For traditional dishes, "Trattoria Nennella" is a must.
Here you can enjoy Genovese, a meat and onion sauce that cooks for hours, and eggplant parmigiana.
"La Cantina dei Mille" near Napoli Centrale train station is another restaurant that’s renowned for its traditional dishes such as puttanesca pasta and sausages with broccoli.
Neapolitan espresso
Finally, no meal in Naples is complete without an espresso.
Visit "Caffè Gambrinus" near Piazza del Plebiscito, a famous coffee bar where you can enjoy a perfect espresso in an elegant setting.
These dishes and restaurants represent the culinary heart of Naples, offering an authentic experience that reflects the richness and variety of Neapolitan cuisine.
Useful links
Hydrofoil tickets Naples - Ischia