The major port city of Naples is Italy’s third-largest city. It’s also large in history, culture, art, architecture, and delicious food, as one would expect from an Italian city.
The city is crammed full of famous landmarks, as is the gateway to the city of Pompeii, the picturesque Amalfi Coast, the island of Capri, and a plethora of ancient Greek and Roman archeology sites.
It would take more than a lifetime to see all the amazing attractions in Naples. So, planning a trip here is no easy task, as you do need to consider what is a must-visit and what can be missed off the itinerary. When your time in the city is limited, it’s important to know all the best things do to in Naples so you can make the most out of your trip.
AT A GLANCE: Our Top Picks for Things to Do in Naples
- The Most Historic: Pompeii Day Trip
- The Best for Foodies: Pasta Making Class
- The Most Scenic: Amalfi Boat Tour
This guide offers you the most unmissable things to do in Naples (and some hidden gems) to help anyone planning a trip get the most of their time in the city.
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The Top Things to Do in Naples
If you’re short on time, then these five unmissable things to do in Naples should be at the top of anyone’s Naples itinerary. These experiences represent the quintessential experience of this historic city.
| THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NAPLES | |||
|---|---|---|---|
THE MOST HISTORIC THING TO DO IN NAPLES  | Pompeii Day Trip
| VIEW ON VIATOR | |
THE BEST THING TO DO IN NAPLES FOR FOODIES  | Pasta Making Class
| VIEW ON VIATOR | |
THE MOST SCENIC THING TO DO IN NAPLES  | Amalfi Boat Tour
| VIEW ON VIATOR | |
THE MOST UNUSUAL THING TO DO IN NAPLES  | Underground Tour
| VIEW ON VIATOR | |
1. Visit Vesuvius and The Ruins of Pompeii
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One of the most popular things to do in Naples is to visit the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii. As you wander the ancient streets, you’ll learn about life before the massive eruption that preserved the entire town beneath volcanic debris.
Mount Vesuvius, the active volcano responsible for the eruption, is one of Naples’ top landmarks. Explore the crater and learn about volcanism from a professional volcanologist to complete the experience. The views over the city from here are nothing short of spectacular.
- Entrance: $117.49
- Hours: Tour times vary
- Address: To be arranged on booking
2. See Ancient Roman Artifacts at the National Archeological Museum
For anyone visiting Naples in search of history, a visit to the National Archeological Museum is a must. Explore one of the richest museums in the world to see ancient mosaics, wall paintings, frescoes, and an astounding variety of exhibits. The exhibits include the world’s largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts and a Gladiator exhibit with over 150 objects on display.
As visiting this museum is one of the more popular things to do in Naples, it’s a good idea to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to skip the crowds. Also, there’s plenty to see, so give yourself at least two hours to see it all.
- Entrance: $18
- Hours: 9:00 to 19:30 (Wednesday to Monday)
- Address: 19 Piazza Museo, Naples
3. Sample the City’s Street Food and Regional Cuisine
If you’re a foodie fan visiting Naples, be prepared to eat well. The city is one of Italy’s true culinary capitals with plenty of unique regional options to enjoy and traditional favorites like pasta and pizza aplenty.
As you explore the top attractions and walk the city streets, sample the many street food options along the way or stop in at hidden eateries to try local delights. Don’t pass up an opportunity to try some sweet treats and pastries.
- Entrance: $39.51
- Hours: Tour times may vary
- Address: Departs from Piazza Bellini
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4. Explore an Imposing Medieval Fortress at Castel Nuovo
Visible from a great distance, the towering fortress of Castel Nuovo (meaning New Castle) is one of the top places to visit in Naples. Originally built in the 13th Century under French rule, the fortress was later rebuilt by the Spanish in the 15thCentury.
The fortress, also known as Maschio Angioino, features five round towers and thick stone walls. Visitors can see historic frescoes, Roman ruins, and a fantastic collection of artwork by Neapolitan painters dating as far back as the 17th century.
- Entrance: $6
- Hours: 8:30 to 18:00 (Monday to Sunday), 10:00 to 13:00 (Sunday)
- Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele III
5. Shop and Dine at Galleria Umberto I
When you visit anywhere in Italy, you can expect three things: plenty of art and history, exceptional food and wine, and good shopping. In Naples, the place to be for a good shop-a-thon is Galleria Umberto I.
The Galleria was built in the late 19th century as a way of reviving the district, which had become run-down and crime-ridden. With its elegant murals, sculptures, and glass-domed ceilings, the Galleria is a beautiful escape from the bustle of the city.
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: 15 Via San Carlo
6. Visit Amalfi and Positano by Boat
The Amalfi Coast is famous worldwide for being one of the most beautiful coastal areas. Rugged cliffs studded with colorful homes clinging impossibly to the rock face overlook hidden beaches and romantic coves.
Not for nothing is Amalfi listed as a UNESCO coastline and one of the most popular things to do in Naples.
Visiting this coastal region by land is gorgeous, with incredible ocean views, but visiting by boat offers a new perspective of this picturesque region. Visit the postcard-perfect towns of Amalfi and Positano and go swimming and snorkeling.
- Entrance: $157.02
- Hours: Depart at 8:30
- Address: Depart from 91 Piazza Garibaldi
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Get Yours Here Read Our Review7. Experience artistic heritage at Sansevero Chapel Museum
Located in the historic heart of Naples, the Sansevero Chapel Museum is a popular attraction in Naples. The chapel features intricate and delicate marble statues, astounding murals, and frescoes.
The highlight here is the Veiled Christ – famous for the realism achieved in marble – which assumed pride of place in the center of the chapel.
Other sculptures include the Statues of the Virtues, which portray “Modesty”, “Sincerity”, and “Decorum”. At the same time, the 18th-century architecture itself is a feast for the eyes.
- Entrance: $8
- Hours: 9:00 to 19:00 (Wednesday to Monday)
- Address: 19 and 21 Via Francesco de Sanctis
8. Venture Beneath the City Streets to Underground Naples
Beneath the city’s bustling streets lies a buried history that dates back almost 3000 years. Head below ground to delve into this fascinating history.
See the ancient ruins, aqueducts, and water cisterns beneath the city. During World War II, these doubled as air raid shelters for the city’s residents. The trained guide accompanying you will share plenty of history and entertaining stories as you go.
Make sure you bring along something warm to wear – it can get cold in the tunnels.
- Entrance: $12.48
- Hours: Tour times vary
- Address: Departs from 52 Vico S. Anna di Palazzo
9. Travel Through Time at the Royal Palace of Naples
Built under Spanish rule, Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) is one of four royal residences in the city. Construction began on this lavish palace in the 1600s, and over time there have been many restorations and additions.
Explore the lives and history of Naples’ monarchs as you walk through the sumptuous apartments, theatre, and chapel. In addition to being well preserved, the rooms contain magnificent art and antique furniture typical of the period. The throne room, in particular, is not to be missed.
- Entrance: $6.10
- Hours: 9:00 to 20:00 (Thursday to Tuesday)
- Address: Piazza del Plebiscito
10. Hang Out in Piazza Bellini
One of the best things to do in Naples at night is hanging out in the vibey Piazza Bellini. This leafy square is lined with bars and cafes and is where the young and beautiful people of Naples hang out, grab a drink, and socialize.
In the center of the square, you’ll find excavated ruins of ancient city walls dating back to the 4th century. A common tourist thing to do is visit Intra Moenia – a café with famously postcard-lined walls – where it’s customary to purchase a postcard to send home.
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Via Santa Maria di Constantinopoli
11. Visit the island of Capri
Arguably one of the most popular attractions in Naples is the small island of Capri, which lies within the bay. It takes around two hours to get to the island by boat, but your efforts are rewarded with charming villages, rugged coastlines, and beautiful hidden caves. Capri can be ‘spenny to stay on, have a look at places to stay in Ischia for a couple of nights off the mainland.
One of the ways to get there is to rent a boat in Naples, but if you’ve never driven a boat before then a guided tour will ensure you hit all the top spots on the island while you’re here. This includes visiting the incredible Blue Grotto and visiting both Capri and Anacapri for some sightseeing.
- Entrance: $146.22
- Hours: Tour times vary
- Address: Various departure locations
12. Taste the Best Pizza in Town on Via Dei Tribunali
With its roots dating back to Neapolis’s Ancient Greek and Roman city, the Via Dei Tribunali is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Naples for its cuisine. It also provides access to the vast network of underground tunnels known as Napoli Sotteranea.
Walking along this cobbled street, you’ll pass by more than twenty churches, restaurants, cafes, and shops. According to locals, this is where you’ll find the best pizza at either the world-famous Sorbillo, Di Matteo, or Figlio del Presidente restaurants.
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Via Dei Tribunali
13. Enjoy seafood and scenery at Castel dell Ovo
This imposing fortress is perched on a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge. It looms over the marina and has, throughout its life, been both a royal residence and a prison. Its name means Egg Castle, referring to the legend that the Roman poet Virgil hid a magical egg in the foundations.
There’s not much to see inside the fortress, but the views from here are impressive. The nearby marina is ideal for a seafood lunch after.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 9:00 to 19:00 (Monday to Friday), 9:00 to 13:00 (Sunday)
- Address: 3 Via Eldorado
14. Take an Authentic Pasta-Making Class
If you come to Italy and fall in love with the food (which you will), consider learning the skill for yourself to replicate when you get home. Learn traditional Neapolitan recipes, how to make ravioli and fettuccine by hand, and have a great time doing it. You’ll even get to nibble on some tasty cheese and cold meats.
This small-group, hands-on workshop will ensure you can go home a show off your new skills, recreating a bit of your trip for your friends and family.
- Entrance: $51.18
- Hours: Tour times vary
- Address: 54 Piazza Municipio
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Hide Yo’ Money!15. Check Out Modern Art at Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina (MADRE)
In Italy, there’s a lot of history. From ancient Roman ruins to art through the centuries, it can sometimes feel like everything is ancient. If you want to enjoy something a bit modern in contrast to the rich history, stop at the Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina to enjoy some modern art.
Artists on display include big names like Jeff Koons and Anish Kapoor, and collections include a range of mediums. There are three floors to explore, as well as a sculpture on the roof terrace not to be missed.
- Entrance: $8.10
- Hours: 10:00 to 19:30 (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday), 10:00 to 20:00 (Sunday)
- Address: 79 Via Settembrini
16. Dive into History Beneath the Waves
The Archeological Marine Park of Baia offers visitors the chance to snorkel and dive among the ruins of an ancient Roman resort. Baia was a Vegas-style holiday playground for the wealthy and powerful Roman elite, where they would come to revitalize in the healing volcanic hot springs.
Later, the city was abandoned and left to sink beneath the waves – a consequence of the volcanism that gave it its allure, to begin with. Explore the ruins on a dive, a snorkeling adventure, or on a glass-bottomed boat.
- Entrance: Diving and scuba packages vary
- Hours: Tour times vary
- Address: 165 Via Miliscola, Pozzuoli
17. Watch a Show at the Teatro Di San Carlo
What could be more authentic than spending a night at the opera at Teatro di San Carlo? This is not only the oldest opera house in Europe, but the building itself is an exquisite masterpiece of red velvet and ornate gold finishing dating back to 1737.
Some of the world’s best performers have appeared here, from soloists to dancers and world-class conductors. Whether you take in a show or just want a tour of the theatre, this is one of those unmissable things to do in Naples.
- Entrance: Ticket prices vary
- Hours: 10:00 to 18:00
- Address: 98F Via San Carlo
18. Take in the Treasures of San Gennaro
Certainly, one of the most spectacular attractions in Naples is the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro. This art collection of art includes jewelry, sculptures, fabrics, and paintings collected as donations over centuries.
The museum is housed below the Chapel of the Treasures, which contains paintings and frescoes by famous artists. The most jaw-dropping item in the collection is arguably the jeweled miter (Bishop’s hat) encrusted with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.
- Entrance: From $10
- Hours: 9:30 to 18:30 daily
- Address: 149 Via Duomo
19. Take a Day Trip to the Palace of Caserta
Visiting the exquisite Caserta Royal Palace is a popular day trip from Naples. The palace and its magnificent gardens are a shining example of Italian Baroque, covering a staggering 11 acres in total.
It is, in fact, the largest royal residence on earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Appreciate the telescopic effect of the pools and basins that stretch out more than a kilometer from the palace, terminating in a waterfall in the nearby forest. Make sure to visit the Venus Bath located within the English Garden.
- Entrance: $94
- Hours: Tour departs at 9:00
- Address: Departure from Starhotels Terminus, Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi
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View on Booking.com20. Browse for Handcrafted Figurines on Via San Gregorio Armeno
This picturesque alley in central Naples is also known as Christmas Alley. The reason for this is that in the past, it was known for its handcrafted statuettes commonly purchased as part of nativity scenes (known as Presepe in Italian).
The origin of this dates back to classical times when the alley housed a temple where devotees would bring small, handmade terracotta figurines. Today, these artisanal wares and statuettes include characters from popular culture, celebrities, sports stars, and even politicians.
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: N/A
- Address: Between Spaccanapoli and Via Dei Tribunali
21. Pay a Visit to the Doll Hospital
This hidden gem in Naples is a charming experience for adults and children. The Doll Hospital museum offers an immersive and magical experience of a doll restoration center and museum.
The doll’s hospital, or Ospedale delle Bambole, has on display various dolls and teddy bears, some dating as far back as the 18th century.
Important work is carried out here to revive and restore precious childhood memories, from nose transplants, stuffing and limb replacements, and even cleaning delicate fabrics and furs.
- Entrance: $4
- Hours: 9:00 to 13:00 and 16:30 to 19:30 (Monday to Saturday), 16:00 to 19:00 (Sunday)
- Address: 39 Via San Biagio dei Librai
Where to Stay in Naples
A visit to this city doesn’t only present a wealth of options of things to do in Naples, but it also offers a variety of places to stay. From budget-busting hostels to opulent hotels and even a range of welcoming homestays, you’ll be spoiled with choices on where to stay in Naples.
Best Hostel in Naples – Serendipity B&B
Located in the heart of the city, Serendipity B&B is the ideal hostel in Naples for those wishing to be within walking distance of the top attractions in Naples. This is an ideal base of operations for an exploration of the city. Each room has a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and shared access to a comfortable lounge.
Best Airbnb in Naples – Modern City Center Studio
Arteteca 4 is a modern apartment in Naples with easy access to the city’s historic district. The apartment features contemporary design and modern amenities like fast Wi-Fi and a well-equipped kitchen. A small balcony allows guests to enjoy the quiet location after a busy day of exploring.
Best Hotel in Naples – Toledo Boutique Rooms
From its central location on one of the city’s main thoroughfares, the Toledo Boutique Rooms offers easy access to all the popular things to do in Naples. In addition to its excellent location, the hotel offers excellent accommodation at great value. Stylish rooms, helpful staff, and excellent amenities make this a superior option.
Some Additional Tips for Visiting Naples
Before you pack your bags and zip off to Naples, I have just a few more words of advice before you visit…
- Visit at the end of the month. If you’re visiting Naples on a budget, you can save a bunch on top attractions by planning your visit for the first Sunday of the month when access to the state-run museums and gardens is free.
- Hire a Vespa. Getting around Naples is a cinch with plenty of public transport. Buses, trams, funiculars, and taxis make this an easy city to navigate. Get the authentic Italian experience by hiring a Vespa to get around.
- Dabble in street food. Street food is both affordable and delicious in Naples. Spaccanapoli is where it’s at when it comes to sampling the best street food that the city has to offer.
- Keep an eye on your valuables. Naples is safe, but busy locations and top tourist spots tend to attract pickpockets – keep your valuables close and be aware.
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Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Naples
Naples’ intoxicating mix of Old World Charm and vibrant Italian zest has long attracted travelers to the bay.
Tucked between the port and Mount Vesuvius, the city houses more than enough art, archaeology, and architecture for visitors to see and plenty of things to do in Naples.
Add to that the natural beauty of this rugged coastline and the exceptional cuisine, and you’ve got the kind of destination that you can return to again.
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