Naples | Our tips for discovering the city and its surroundings

 

We love Naples, but at the same time we hate it. We’ve found it to have a lot of Italian charm, thanks to its rich architectural heritage, the warmth of its people, its delicious Neapolitan cuisine and Vesuvius. Discover this exuberant and quite surprising city!

 

 

Naples is to Italy what Marseille is to France. A city brimming with charm, thanks to its rich architectural heritage, the passion of its people, and its delicious cuisine. But Naples also has a more mysterious, fiery side—just like Mount Vesuvius that looms over it. In this article, discover the many facets of this truly surprising city!

Naples, the capital of the Campania region in southwestern Italy, is the country’s third-largest city after Rome and Milan. Located just 2.5 hours from Rome, it lies in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, the still-active volcano whose eruption in 79 AD buried the city of Pompeii. The Gulf of Naples is also a perfect base for exploring the islands of Ischia, Procida, and Capri, as well as the stunning Amalfi Coast—one of Italy’s most scenic routes.

Discover what makes this city so captivating and all the amazing experiences you can enjoy from Naples.

Don’t forget to check out our guides to the Amalfi Coast to help you plan your trip and uncover some truly charming spots!

 

• Our favorite accommodations in Naples
• Our mini guide to the Amalfi Coast
• Procida, an island made simple
• The most beautiful hilltop villages on the Amalfi Coast

 

 

| What to See in Naples

 

• Get Lost in the Alleys of Spaccanapoli

The heart of Naples is sliced in two by the famous Spaccanapoli street, a narrow artery that captures the very soul of the city. Stroll through its bustling alleys lined with baroque churches, historic palaces, and artisanal shops to truly soak up the Neapolitan spirit.

This lively district is full of character, with countless bars and restaurants—each more inviting than the next. We loved its raw authenticity: narrow alleyways where scooters whizz by, locals call out to each other, and laundry flutters from balconies. It’s a true slice of Southern Italy.

The streets Benedetto Croce and San Biagio dei Librai are particularly worth exploring, as are the beautiful squares Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, and the tiny Piazzetta Nilo.

→ Don’t miss:

• The Church of Gesù Nuovo

• The Cloister of Santa Chiara

• The Sansevero Museum and its famous Veiled Christ sculpture

 

 

 

 

• The Royal Palace & Piazza del Plebiscito

 

Monumental and majestic, Piazza del Plebiscito is one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. Framed by grand colonnades, it is home to the Royal Palace of Naples and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.

Just next door, you’ll find the Teatro di San Carlo, Europe’s oldest opera house, which is well worth a visit—even just for a guided tour. Public tours are offered daily at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm.

To check the current program or book a performance, visit their official website here. Classical music lovers will be delighted to experience a live show in this prestigious venue.

 

Explore the Naples Duomo and the Chapel of San Gennaro

A major religious site, the Naples Cathedral (Duomo) houses the Chapel of San Gennaro, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. His blood, which is said to miraculously liquefy during annual ceremonies, draws crowds of devoted Neapolitans every year.

➡️ Book your tickets here for the Chapel of San Gennaro

Descend into the Depths of Naples with Napoli Sotterranea

Beneath your feet, Naples hides a whole other world. Napoli Sotterranea takes you through a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers carved into volcanic tuff—once used as water reservoirs, air-raid shelters, and secret sanctuaries. A fascinating and unusual experience!

➡️ Book your tickets here for the Catacombs of San Gennaro

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This is one of the most prestigious museums in Italy. You’ll find mosaics, frescoes, statues, and artifacts recovered from the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum. A priceless treasure for art and history lovers.

➡️ Book your tickets here for the Naples Archaeological Museum

Galleria Umberto I

Another must-see site is the stunning Galleria Umberto I, built in the 19th century. This grand building with its impressive glass dome is both elegant and lively, filled with shops, cafés, and bustling energy.

 

 

Free Walking Tour in French – A Guided Visit of the Historic Center

Don’t miss the chance to join a free walking tour led by a French-speaking local guide. We tried this concept during our trip to Seville and really enjoyed it! It’s a great way to explore the city while listening to fun anecdotes from a passionate local.

This tour will take you from Piazza Dante to Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, uncovering the charm of old Naples along the way.

➡️ Book your Free Walking Tour of Old Naples in French here

| The Best Views of Naples

 

If you’re wondering where to find the most beautiful viewpoints in Naples, here are a few of our favorite scenic spots:

Posillipo Hill

Head to Posillipo Hill, perched above the bay. This green, residential neighborhood offers some of the best panoramic views of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Gulf islands. With its elegant villas, small coves, and ancient ruins, it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

San Martino Monastery & Castel Sant’Elmo

Gain some altitude in the Vomero district, accessible via funicular. The Castel Sant’Elmo and San Martino Monastery offer truly breathtaking views over the city and the bay.

Down below, the Chiaia neighborhood charms visitors with its elegant streets, upscale boutiques, and trendy cafés.

To reach the funicular, head to Montesanto Station in the historic center or Toledo Station in the Spanish Quarter. You can also take a taxi if you prefer.

 

 

| Naples Off the Beaten Path: Unique Experiences Not to Miss

If you’re looking for original things to do in Naples, here are some great experiences we recommend:

• Join a cooking class and learn how to make authentic Neapolitan pizza—after all, Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and nowhere else does it better!

• Take a street food tour through the city center to taste local specialties while exploring hidden corners of Naples.

• Discover the vibrant Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli) on a guided tour focused on street art, local history, and charming churches—a great way to explore a lesser-known, yet deeply authentic part of the city.

 

| Best Day Trips from Naples

Procida, Capri & Ischia: Experience the Charm of the Bay of Naples Islands

Procida

The smallest of the three islands—and definitely our favorite. Procida has managed to preserve its authenticity, far from the crowds of Capri or Ischia. This charming island is peaceful, colorful, and ideal for slow travel and soaking up the true dolce vita.

With its narrow streets, pastel facades, and the picturesque Marina Corricella, Procida invites you to a romantic escape—one of those magical moments that feel suspended in time.

➡️ Read our full article on Procida here

 

 

Capri: A Chic Getaway… That Can Feel Overrated

I had the chance to stay on Capri, a glamorous island known for its luxury boutiques and upscale hotels—but to be honest, I found it a bit too touristy. For a more authentic experience, Anacapri, perched higher up on the island, offers a quieter and more charming alternative.

Capri is easily accessible from Naples (via Molo Beverello port) with frequent ferries running every 30 minutes during high season. The crossing takes around 50 minutes. You can also reach it from Amalfi, Positano, or Sorrento, with several daily departures (around €50 per trip). The main ferry companies are SNAV and Caremar, the latter often being slightly cheaper. In peak season, we highly recommend booking in advance.

→ Tip: Pay in cash—some ticket counters don’t accept credit cards. To compare schedules and prices, head to directferries.fr.

➡️ Looking for a hassle-free day trip to Capri and Anacapri? Check out this link to see availability and book in advance.

 

 

Ischia: A Thermal Island to Discover Away from the Crowds

Located about 40 minutes by boat from Naples, Ischia will charm you with its peaceful atmosphere and volcanic landscapes.

We actually decided not to go that day due to the high number of tourists, but everything suggests that this island is well worth a visit. To truly enjoy the experience, we recommend spending at least one night on the island.

➡️ Book your ferry to Ischia here to secure your seat, especially during high season.

 

 

Step Back in Time: Explore Pompeii and Herculaneum, Two Timeless Treasures

Just a few kilometers from Naples, set off to explore Pompeii and Herculaneum, two extraordinary archaeological sites frozen in time since the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

While Pompeii impresses with its vast size and wealth of ruins—forums, bathhouses, villas, and beautifully preserved frescoes—Herculaneum, just a short distance away, offers a more intimate and better-preserved experience, with multi-story buildings and remarkably detailed architecture. Both cities are complementary, each telling its own story of daily life in ancient Roman times.

They’re easily accessible by train from Naples via the Circumvesuviana line—the simplest way to get there. Combo tickets (train + site entry) are available to make your day trip even smoother.

This is an unmissable excursion for history lovers or anyone seeking a deeply moving and educational experience. For a more immersive visit, we highly recommend booking a guided tour to truly understand the historical context and uncover the secrets buried under the ashes.

We personally spent the whole day exploring the area and absolutely loved it. If you understand French, we strongly suggest choosing a French-speaking guide—you’ll learn so much about this ancient tragedy.

➡️ Book your skip-the-line tickets for Pompeii here to save time on site
➡️ Skip-the-line tickets for Herculaneum available here
➡️ For an even richer experience, opt for a French-guided tour with a passionate expert who brings Pompeii’s history to life through incredible stories. For something truly unique, try the augmented reality tour—we’ve done this on other sites, and highly recommend it!

 

 

Hike the Slopes of Mount Vesuvius

Standing proudly over the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius is one of the world’s most famous volcanoes—infamously known for burying Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. Still active today, this mighty volcano offers a spectacular excursion for those looking to combine nature, history, and breathtaking views.

From Naples, it’s easy to reach the volcano either by car or as part of an organized tour. Once at the top, a short hike will take you right to the smoking crater, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding landscapes.

Walking along the rim of an active volcano, gazing out at the horizon, and imagining the sheer force of nature—it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience not to miss while in the region. Just don’t forget to wear good hiking shoes and bring a jacket, even in summer!

Join a day trip from Naples and explore Vesuvius with a guide who will share insights about the volcano’s dramatic history and geology, all while taking in the fantastic views over Naples, Pompeii, and the coastline.

➡️ Book your access tickets to Mount Vesuvius here

 

 

| Where to Eat in Naples (And Not Just Pizza!)

You simply can’t visit Naples without tasting an authentic Neapolitan pizza, born here in 1889! Here are some of the best local spots—some legendary, others more under the radar, but all worth the stop:

• Gino Sorbillo (Via dei Tribunali): Iconic, legendary, and extremely popular. Expect a wait (1–2 hours), but the flavor is well worth it!

• Pizzeria Ntretella (Spanish Quarter): I’ve always been told, “If there’s a crowd, it’s good”—and that’s exactly the case here. A lively Neapolitan vibe and an affordable menu (around €12). A true local favorite.

• 50 Kalò (Piazza Sannazaro): Known for its pizzas and pata fritta (fried dough), best enjoyed with a glass of Greco.

• Da Carmine (Via dei Tribunali): An authentic and popular trattoria with generous portions and classic dishes.

• Hosteria Toledo: Simple, tasty Neapolitan home-style cooking.

• Da Fofo (Vomero): Delicious pasta dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting.

• Da Nennella (Spanish Quarter): Probably the most memorable meal of our stay! Despite its popularity, it has stayed 100% authentic. The atmosphere is wildly Neapolitan. Expect a long queue at any time of day, but the staff know exactly how to keep you entertained while you wait.

  You don’t just come here for the food—you come for the full-on Neapolitan experience. While enjoying dishes like pasta e patate or pasta e fagioli, waiters shout orders, chant the menu aloud, toss plates (sometimes literally!), and create a loud, chaotic, joyful vibe that you’ll never forget. Don’t leave without asking for a limoncello, and don’t forget to slip a well-earned tip into the tipping machine hanging from the ceiling—a fun local tradition!

• La Scialuppa (Borgo Marinero): A romantic spot right by the harbor with a beautiful waterfront view.

And for a quick street food break, don’t miss the warm taralli sold at kiosks throughout the city—salty, crunchy, and utterly addictive.

 

 

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