Discover the fascinating city of Naples, where history and modernity collide to create a unique and vibrant atmosphere. With over 2000 years of history, Naples is a city full of contradictions and surprises, waiting to be explored.

Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, where ancient architecture meets modern art, and where the bustling streets are lined with vibrant shops and cafes.

Experience the famous Christmas nativity scenes, or visit during the Spring and Autumn months for the perfect temperatures to stroll along the pedestrian seafront and indulge in some shopping along Via Toledo.

Arte Card

Naples and Campania offer the Campania Artecard, a tourist pass with many advantages for those who want to explore the artistic heritage of the region.

There are three types of card available:

Artecard the whole region – 3 days:

• Costs 32 euros (25 € for young people 18/25)
• Provides free access to the first two sites, with subsequent entries reduced by 50%
• Includes regional travel on all means of transports.

Artecard the whole region – 7 days:

• Costs 34 euros
• Provides free admission to the first 5 sites, with a 50% reduction from the 6th
• Does not provide for transport concessions.

Artecard Naples:

• Valid for three days from the first use
• Costs 21 euros (12 in the young 18/25 version)
• Provides free or reduced admission to various monumental complexes
• Allows free travel on all means of transports in the urban area of Naples.

In comparison to single entry tickets, the Artecards are worth it because:

Pompeii (18 euros), Herculaneum (13 euros), and Paestum (8 euros) have a total cost of 39 euros, while the Artecard for 3 days costs 32 euros.
The Artecard for 7 days does not include transport, but it still offers a bargain with five sites at 34 euros.

With the Artecard Naples, visitors can explore many attractions, including the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (18 euros), the Museum and Real Bosco di Capodimonte (12 euros), the Certosa di San Martino (12 euros), the Madre Museum (5 euros), the Royal Palace (6 euros), and more.

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Spaccanapoli

Experience the essence of Naples by taking a stroll down the famous Spaccanapoli street. The name, which translates to “Naples splitter,” comes from the fact that the street divides the historic center of Naples in two. From the top of the Belvedere di San Martino, you’ll see the street cutting straight through from the Spanish Quarters to the Forcella district.

As you walk along Spaccanapoli, you’ll be immersed in the everyday life of the city, surrounded by the vibrant colors and bustling energy of Naples. This street is a microcosm of the city’s history and culture, with beautiful monuments, artisan workshops, fishmongers, and the constant flow of people and scooters weaving through the narrow alleys.

And if you take the time to look up and appreciate the architecture, you’ll see a mix of styles from different periods, giving Spaccanapoli a unique charm that is quintessentially Neapolitan. So come and experience the heart and soul of Naples on this iconic street.

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Naples Churches

Naples, also known as “The City of the Five Hundred Domes,” boasts an impressive number of churches, each with its own unique architectural style and cultural significance.

From Gothic to Baroque, grand to modest, these churches tell the story of Naples’ rich history, art, and traditions.

With so many options to choose from, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top 6 must-see churches in Naples.

Get ready to be inspired and awed by their beauty and cultural significance!

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Naples’ Cathedral, a magnificent 11th-century cathedral, is a treasure trove of art and history. It boasts a range of architectural styles, including the Basilica of Santa Restituta, the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte, the Chapel, and the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro.

The museum is home to priceless masterpieces of goldsmithing dedicated to the city’s patron saint.

A truly unique experience happens at the Cathedral of Naples each year. On September 19, December 16, and the first Sunday of May, hundreds of locals gather to witness the miracle of the liquefaction of the blood of St Janarius. It’s an unforgettable sight that speaks to the deep connection between the city and its religious traditions.

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Pio Monte della Misericordia is a church and charitable organization located in Naples, Italy. The organization was founded in 1601 by seven Neapolitan noblemen with the purpose of assisting the poor and needy. Today, it still operates as a charitable organization and maintains the beautiful church building which houses several important works of art, including a renowned painting by Caravaggio.

The Caravaggio painting, entitled “The Seven Acts of Mercy,” was commissioned by Pio Monte della Misericordia in 1607 and completed in 1609. It depicts the seven corporal works of mercy, such as feeding the hungry and clothing the naked, as well as the spiritual works of mercy, including counseling the doubtful and forgiving offenses. The painting is considered one of Caravaggio’s greatest works and is admired for its dramatic lighting and composition.

Visitors to the church can view the painting in the Sala dei Sette, a room specially designed to showcase the artwork. The room also contains other important works, such as a series of frescoes by Battistello Caracciolo.

In addition to its art collection, Pio Monte della Misericordia is known for its charitable works, which include operating a soup kitchen, providing medical assistance to the poor, and supporting local schools and orphanages. The organization is also involved in preserving the historic and cultural heritage of Naples.

Overall, Pio Monte della Misericordia is a must-visit destination for art lovers and those interested in the history of charitable organizations in Naples. The Caravaggio painting alone is worth the trip, but visitors will also be inspired by the organization’s continued commitment to helping those in need.

The Chapel of San Severo, located in the heart of Naples, is a magnificent example of baroque art and architecture. Built in the late 16th century, the chapel was commissioned by the nobleman Giovanni Francesco di Sangro, who wanted to create a monument dedicated to the mysteries of the Christian faith.

The chapel’s most famous artwork is undoubtedly the “Veiled Christ,” a stunning marble sculpture created by the Neapolitan artist Giuseppe Sanmartino in the mid-18th century. The sculpture depicts the dead body of Christ wrapped in a thin veil, which seems to cling to the contours of his body as if made of real fabric. The realism and detail of the sculpture are truly breathtaking, and visitors often marvel at the delicacy of the veil and the lifelike appearance of Christ’s wounds.

But the Chapel of San Severo is much more than just the “Veiled Christ.” The chapel is home to a wide variety of other artworks and sculptures, many of which were commissioned by the Sangro family. The chapel’s altar, for example, is adorned with a beautiful painting of the Madonna and Child, while the walls are covered in intricate frescoes and bas-reliefs.

In addition to its stunning artworks, the Chapel of San Severo is also known for its many mysteries and legends. Visitors can see a number of strange and unusual objects on display, including two anatomical models made entirely of human bones, which are said to have been created by the prince himself.

Overall, the Chapel of San Severo is a must-see destination for art lovers and anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Naples. With its stunning sculptures, beautiful artworks, and fascinating legends, the chapel is truly one of the most unique and unforgettable attractions in the city.

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The Church of the Gesu Nuovo is a magnificent example of the Baroque style of architecture, located in the heart of Naples. Built between 1584 and 1601, the church features a striking façade with a unique pattern of alternating stone and marble. The interior of the church is no less impressive, with richly decorated chapels, vaulted ceilings, and stunning frescoes.

One of the most notable features of the Church of the Gesu Nuovo is the use of hexagonal shapes throughout the building, from the dome to the altar. This is thought to be a nod to the Jesuit order who founded the church, as the six-sided shape is a symbol of the Society of Jesus.

The church is also home to a number of impressive artworks, including paintings by Luca Giordano and Battistello Caracciolo. However, the most famous piece housed in the church is the statue of the Immaculate Conception by Francesco Celebrano. The statue depicts the Virgin Mary in a pose that is both graceful and realistic, and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque sculpture in Italy.

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The Royal Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is a grand neoclassical church located in Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples. Its grandeur and elegance are immediately apparent upon first glance, with its massive dome and impressive colonnades.

The church was built in the early 19th century as a tribute to King Ferdinand I of Bourbon, who vowed to build a church dedicated to St. Francis of Paola if he succeeded in regaining the throne.

The interior of the basilica is equally stunning, with a vast nave and high altar that showcase the neoclassical style. The church also houses numerous works of art, including the famous frescoes of the four Evangelists by Francesco de Mura. The royal chapel is particularly noteworthy, featuring an altarpiece by Luigi Vanvitelli and a stunning bas-relief by Tommaso Solari.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of the basilica, however, is the grandiose dome that dominates the structure. Measuring over 53 meters in diameter, it is one of the largest domes in the world and is decorated with an impressive fresco depicting the Glory of Paradise.

Visitors can climb to the top of the dome for stunning panoramic views of Naples and the surrounding areas.

The Royal Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the grandeur and history of Naples. Its beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.

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The Cloister of the Poor Clares is a hidden gem in the heart of Naples. Located in the historic center of the city, this 16th-century cloister is part of the Church of Santa Maria di Colonna, which was founded in the early 1600s by a group of nuns who belonged to the Order of the Poor Clares.

The cloister is a beautiful example of Neapolitan Baroque architecture, featuring columns with intricate decorations, colorful frescoes, and a stunning central fountain. The peaceful atmosphere of the cloister is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of Naples.

In addition to its architectural beauty, the Cloister of the Poor Clares also houses a small museum, which displays a collection of sacred art and artifacts. One of the highlights of the museum is a beautiful 18th-century nativity scene, which features over 200 figurines and is considered one of the best in Naples.

Visitors can also take a guided tour of the cloister, which provides insight into the history and significance of the Poor Clares and their role in Naples’ religious and cultural heritage. A visit to the Cloister of the Poor Clares is a must-see for anyone interested in the art, architecture, and history of Naples.

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Naples Museums

Naples is a city that hosts a truly impressive number of museums: from art to history, from traditions to science. The most difficult thing will be to choose which one to visit first.

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in ancient history and art. Located in the heart of the city, the museum houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of Greek and Roman artifacts.

The museum’s impressive collection includes mosaics, sculptures, frescoes, and other works of art from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other ancient sites in the region. The highlight of the collection is the Farnese collection, which includes some of the most celebrated sculptures of the ancient world, such as the Farnese Hercules and the Farnese Bull.

One of the most intriguing sections of the museum is the Secret Cabinet, which contains erotic and sexually explicit art from Pompeii and Herculaneum. This collection was so controversial that it was kept hidden for many years and only accessible to men until the 20th century.

Visitors can also explore the museum’s Egyptian and Etruscan collections, as well as the extensive numismatic collection featuring ancient coins.

Overall, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples is an excellent destination for history buffs and art lovers alike, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Naples and the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.

The Museum of Capodimonte is one of the most important museums in Italy, located in the beautiful Royal Palace of Capodimonte. This museum is home to some of the most magnificent works of art in the world, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 13th century to the present day.

The museum is famous for its impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, and Botticelli. Visitors can also admire the beautiful collection of Neapolitan paintings, which showcases the unique artistic style of the city.

Apart from the art, the museum is also famous for its beautiful park and gardens, which cover over 130 acres of land. The park features beautiful fountains, sculptures, and panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing various aspects of Italian and international art and culture.

The Museum of Capodimonte is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, history, and culture, and is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

The San Carlo Opera Theatre, located in the heart of Naples, is one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in the world. Built in 1737, it has hosted some of the most renowned musicians and opera singers of all time, such as Pavarotti, Caruso, and Rossini.

The theatre is characterized by its impressive neoclassical architecture and exquisite interior design, with gold leaf decorations, frescoes, and chandeliers. Its horseshoe-shaped auditorium can accommodate up to 1386 spectators, with seven tiers of boxes and a royal box for the king.

In addition to opera, the San Carlo Theatre also stages ballet performances, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year. Its annual program features a rich variety of productions, from classic operas such as La Traviata and Carmen to contemporary works and experimental projects.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the theatre to discover its fascinating history and secrets, including the backstage area, the dressing rooms, and the royal box. For opera lovers, attending a performance at the San Carlo Theatre is an unforgettable experience, combining world-class music with a stunning setting and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Royal Palace Museum in Naples, also known as the Palazzo Reale, is a magnificent and imposing building that dominates Piazza del Plebiscito. It was commissioned by King Charles III of Bourbon in the 18th century as his royal residence and later became the residence of other monarchs, including Joachim Murat and the House of Savoy.

The museum is divided into different sections, each showcasing a particular aspect of the palace’s history and architecture. Visitors can explore the royal apartments, which are beautifully decorated with frescoes, paintings, and luxurious furnishings, as well as the impressive Throne Room and the Court Theatre, a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture.

Another highlight of the museum is the Royal Armory, which displays a vast collection of weapons, armor, and military equipment from different periods of Naples’ history, including medieval and Renaissance times. There is also a collection of porcelain, silverware, and decorative arts, as well as a section dedicated to the palace’s gardens and fountains.

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Greek-Roman Naples

Discover the cultural treasure trove of Greek-Roman Naples, also known as Neapolis, that showcases the captivating history of Naples. This part of the city is home to an impressive collection of well-preserved ancient ruins from the Roman and Greek eras that provide a glimpse into the past.

For history buffs and those fascinated by ancient civilizations, exploring Greek-Roman Naples is an absolute must. It is an enthralling area of the city that provides an opportunity to delve deep into the past and marvel at the rich cultural heritage of Naples.

Located in the western part of Naples, the Pausilypon Archaeological Site and the Seiano Grotto are two hidden gems that offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the city. The site was originally a Roman villa built in the 1st century BC and was later turned into an imperial residence by the Emperor Augustus.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the villa, which includes a theater, an odeon, and several rooms decorated with frescoes and mosaics. One of the highlights of the site is the Seiano Grotto, an ancient tunnel carved into the tuff rock that connects the villa to the sea. It is believed that the tunnel was used to transport goods and people to and from the villa.

The Pausilypon Archaeological Site and the Seiano Grotto are a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history and architecture. The site offers a unique opportunity to explore the ruins of a Roman villa and to see the impressive engineering feat of the Seiano Grotto.

With its stunning views of the Bay of Naples and its rich history, the Pausilypon Archaeological Site and the Seiano Grotto are a true hidden gem in the city.

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Naples Underground

Beneath the bustling streets and grand architecture of Naples lies a world of hidden tunnels, catacombs, and underground passages that reveal a fascinating history of the city. Naples’ underground, known as Napoli Sotterranea, is a network of caves and tunnels that have been carved out over the centuries for various purposes, from aqueducts and cisterns to escape routes and even a secret cult.

Visitors to Naples can explore this underground world with guided tours that take them through the subterranean passages and reveal the secrets of the city’s past. They can marvel at the intricate engineering of the ancient aqueducts, walk through the eerie catacombs filled with skeletal remains, and discover the hidden passageways used by smugglers and rebels.

Naples’ underground is a fascinating and unique way to experience the city’s history and culture. It offers a glimpse into a world that is often overlooked, yet played a vital role in the city’s development.

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Naples Street Food

Street food is an essential part of the culture and traditions of Naples, and exploring the city’s food stalls is a must for any visitor. Here are some of the top spots to check out in the historic center:

Il Cuoppo Friggitori Napoletani: Located on Via San Biagio Dei Librai, this street food stand offers a variety of fried seafood, vegetables, and mozzarella balls, all wrapped in a paper cone. Try the generous portion of mixed fried seafood for just €6.

Friggitoria Vomero: This decades-old fried snack bar near Naples’ funicular is a great stop for arancini, zeppole, omelette di maccheroni pasta, fried potatoes, and zucchini flowers, with prices ranging from €0.20-2 apiece.

Pizzeria Di Matteo: This family-run pizzeria on Via Tribunali near Piazza San Gaetano is the place for traditional Neapolitan pizza, both oven-baked and fried. Even Bill Clinton visited during his trip to Naples in 1994. The Margherita pizza is a must-try, with prices ranging from €2-6.

DE’ Figliole: This spot, in the historical center since 1860, serves the best fried pizza in Naples. Watch the women in the kitchen stretch the dough and pick your favorite calzone-looking or flat pizza. Prices range from €4-5.

Naples’ street food scene owes its fame to the city’s rich natural surroundings, which provide fertile volcanic soil, buffalo dairies, and access to the Mediterranean Sea. The resulting dishes, such as freshly-baked dough, deep-fried seafood, milky mozzarella balls, stuffed rice suppli, and freshly-made tomato sauce, are some of the world’s most revered, and also budget-friendly.

Exploring the mobile cooking-stations, kiosks, cafés, tiny eateries, and food markets of Naples’ streets is a must for anyone seeking a true taste of the city’s culture and traditions.

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The Best Views of Naples

Here are the key points about the panoramic points of Naples:

Belvedere di San Martino: Located in the upmarket Vomero district near Castel Sant’Elmo, this enchanting belvedere offers visitors an unparalleled panorama over the whole of Naples.

Stairways of St. Anthony: These are ramps or descents, also known as “thirteen descents of St. Anthony”, located in one of the most beautiful districts of Naples, Posillipo. Once at the top, visitors can see Vesuvius, Mergellina, and the Castel of San Martino.

Parco Virgiliano: This park is located in the Posillipo district and reaches its maximum splendour in spring and summer. It is one of the city’s most panoramic spots, and visitors can enjoy views of the city below and the island of Nisida.

Marechiaro: The suggestive village of Marechiaro is a romantic place overlooking the sea. With the cliff overlooking the sea, the tranquillity of a place where time seems to stand still, it is ideal to end the evening in one of the local restaurants and clubs right by the sea.

Lungomare Caracciolo: Walking on the seafront of Via Caracciolo and through the municipal villa, visitors can enjoy a wonderful view of the Gulf of Naples and, if the day is clear, the silhouette of the island of Capri. At the end of the walk, they will reach Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle), one of the oldest castles in Naples. From the castle’s terraces, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire Gulf, while behind them they can admire the entire city.

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Shopping in Naples

In addition to its renowned landmarks, breathtaking views, and delectable cuisine, Naples also offers various shopping opportunities to cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re in search of high-end fashion labels such as Gucci, Prada, and Ferragamo, or affordable clothing and footwear, Naples has something for everyone if you know where to look.

Via Filangeri, Via Poerio, and Via Calabritto are the go-to destinations for designer labels, while Via Toledo and Corso Umberto I have options for all budgets. From popular chain stores such as Yamamay, Stradivarius, and Benetton to outlet shops that offer discounted fashion.

The Vomero district, an upmarket residential area, is home to several designer shops on Via Luca Giordano and Via Alessandro Scarlatti. However, if you want to save money, we suggest exploring the nearby alleys for some great deals.

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Out of Town Excursions

A day out of town to visit the beauties not far from the city center: the Phlegrean area, the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida, the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts.

Sorrento, Pompeii, Herculaneum are all along the Circumvesuviana metro train and can be even visited together, at least two out of three. From Pompeii, you catch the bus to Mt Vesuvius (55 minutes).

Amalfi Coast – Besides hiring a convertible car, it’s best to take the High-Speed rail to Salerno (40 minutes) and work your way back with the Sita Buses – Salerno to Amalfi and then Amalfi to Sorrento via Positano. From Sorrento, you can return to Naples by train or hydrofoil.

From Naples’ Porta Garibaldi, you can train to Rome (1hour and 15 minutes), Pompeii (35 minutes), Paestum (1hour and 20 minutes), Pozzuoli (14 minutes), Caserta Royal Palace (40 minutes).

The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are just a hop on the hydrofoil.

5 day-trips out of Naples

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