Choose from 42 Fun Things to Do in Naples
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Avellino
Located in the Campania region, Avellino is not nearly as well-known as its seaside neighbor Naples. History buffs may recognize the name, as Avellino was heavily bombed area during World War II. Today, it’s a nice getaway for visitors looking to trade coastal views for scenic countryside mountain views.
Agriculture is important in Avellino. Wine grapes, tobacco and hazelnuts are important crops here. That said, Avellino is a fairly modern city, having survived and rebuilt after several earthquakes.
Visitors can hike to the Montevergine Sanctuary, visit Avellino Cathedral or see the remains of the Lombard Castle in Piazza Castello (Castle Square). The main street or promenade is car-free, making wandering and window shopping easy. Avellino also has its own basketball club, so if you’re a basketball fan, it’s worth checking the schedule for any games while you are in town.
Practical Info
Avellino is about an hour’s drive east from Naples. It’s located on the Sabato River surrounded by the Apennines.
Address: Avellino, Italy
From $ 217
Historic Centre of Naples
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by Naples, a vibrant city that often seems about to boil over into chaos. Look past the streets teeming with scooters, vendors, and Neapolitans, however, and you’ll spot signs of the 2,500 years of history that makes its UNESCO-listed historic center one of the most fascinating in Italy.
The Basics
Naples’ historic center, or centro storico, is made up of more than 10 distinct neighborhoods that cover the hillsides encircling the Bay of Naples down to the water’s edge. To walk through is to stroll back in time, from the stick-straight Roman roads of the Spaccanapoli and imposing 13th-century Castel Nuovo to the graceful 18th-century Teatro di San Carlo (the oldest opera house in Italy) and 19th-century Piazza Plebiscito. Underneath the city's streets are the remains of both Roman and Greek settlements, and the National Archaeological Museum is home to most of the artifacts removed from the nearby excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Savor the culture and history of the historic center on a guided walking or Segway tour that includes famous sights like Piazza del Gesù, the Duomo, the Church of Santa Chiara, and Via San Gregorio Armeno. One of Naples’ most characteristic features is its cuisine, and many tours combine sightseeing with tastings of pizza and other local street food. The ruins of Pompeii are just outside the city, so consider a tour that includes combines a visit to this famous archaeological park with the historic center.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Walking tours of Naples’ historic center are mostly outdoors; wear sunscreen and a hat in summer.
- You’ll be doing a considerable amount of walking in the largely pedestrian historic center, so choose comfortable footwear.
- Churches require modest attire that covers knees and shoulders.
- Some churches and monuments aren’t wheelchair accessible, and much of the historic center is paved with cobblestones that may be difficult to navigate on wheels.
How to Get There
The historic center of Naples is an easy walk from both the city’s port and main train station, and covers much of the downtown along the waterfront. Naples is a major transportation and cruise ship hub, with direct trains from major Italian cities as well as ferries from Salerno and Sorrento.
When to Get There
Much of southern Italy can be uncomfortably hot in summer, and Naples is no exception. Try to visit in spring or fall, or schedule your tour to begin in the early morning before the temperatures soar. Naples has a number of annual festivals, but perhaps the most famous is the Festa di San Gennaro (September 19), the feast day of the city’s patron saint that includes eight days of religious processions, markets, and other celebratory festivities.
The Archaeological Park at Pompeii
Pompeii, a thriving Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, is among the important archaeological sites in the world. Located just outside the modern city of Naples, this excavated city includes remains of houses, shops, restaurants, temples, and public buildings, many with original frescoes, mosaics, and other decorative features still somewhat intact.
Address: Centro Storico, Naples, Italy
From $ 39
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Castel Nuovo, known locally as Maschio Angioino, has the imposing stone walls, soaring turrets, and crenellated ramparts of a storybook medieval castle. Built as the new royal residence between 1279 and 1282 by Charles I of Anjou, it is one of Naples' most striking buildings and home of the city’s Civic Museum.
The Basics
Most of the current "New Castle" dates from the 15th century, when the Aragonese monarch Alfonso V carried out a number of renovations to the original building, including its white marble triumphal arch. At the end of the 1600s, Naples was annexed by Spain and the castle was downgraded to military fortress, but Charles III moved back in as king of Naples in 1734 and restored it to its former glory. Today, visitors can tour the castle's halls and courtyard, 14th-century Palatine Chapel decorated with fragments of frescoes from the Giotto school, and Museo Civico.
This castle is best visited with a tour guide as part of a Naples Segway tour or walking tour that includes visits to other landmarks such as the Castel dell'Ovo and Royal Palace. Alternatively, a visit to Castel Nuovo can be combined with a Neapolitan food tour or an archaeological tour of sites in Naples and nearby Pompeii.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museo Civico is closed on Sundays, but the other areas of the castle remain open to visitors.
- The castle and museum are completely accessible to wheelchairs via elevators and ramps.
- Exploring the historic halls and towers of Castel Nuovo is especially fun for kids.
- There are great views from the castle over the Bay of Naples and city center, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
Castel Nuovo is located in the center of Naples (Napoli) near the port; metro line 1 and bus line R2 both have Piazza Municipio stops near the castle. Naples is the largest city in Southern Italy and a main transport hub, so an easy day trip from Rome or Sorrento.
When to Get There
The castle is open free of charge each Sunday, which means that it can be very crowded. Better to plan a visit on the other days of the week, when opening hours are from 9am to 7pm. Visit at night to see the castle illuminated.
The Museo Civico
The art collection in the castle's Civic Museum includes 14th- and 15th-century frescoes and sculptures, as well as paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 17th to 20th century.
Address: Piazza Munipio, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Bay of Naples
One of the most important gulfs in southern Italy, the Bay of Naples is home to the vibrant city of Naples, the resort town of Sorrento, and the lovely islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida. Mount Vesuvius looms over the coastline, a dramatic reminder that ruins of the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum are also located here.
The Basics
South of Naples and north of the Sorrentine Peninsula, “the Bay of Naples” refers to both this gulf in the Mediterranean Sea and its coastline area. The bay has been attracting Europe’s writers and artists since the 18th century, drawn by the stunning views and Roman ruins. By far the best way to explore is by sea, so consider joining a private boat trip or small-group cruise from Naples or Sorrento to bay highlights like the Island of Capri, beloved by Roman emperors like Tiberius and known for its famous Blue Grotto, and Sorrento, the main town on the Sorrentine Peninsula with its bustling Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia. By land, you can opt for a sightseeing tour of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum (Ercolano), touring these archaeological UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a local guide; a sightseeing tour of Naples and its world-class archaeological museum; or a driving tour along the coastline to the nearby Amalfi Coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boat trips are fun for adults and kids, so the Bay of Naples is perfect for a family-friendly tour.
- The Bay of Naples has some of the most breathtaking scenery in Italy, so be sure to bring your camera.
- Wear a hat and sunblock for both land and sea tours; if taking a boat tour, bring your swimsuit, as many private trips include stops for swimming.
- Many boats are not accessible to wheelchairs, so check before booking a boat tour.
How to Get There
The Bay of Naples is located along the coast of Italy’s southern Campania region, which can be reached by air or train from Rome or Naples.
When to Get There
The waters in the Bay of Naples can be choppy from November to April, and boat trips and cruises are frequently cancelled. It’s wiser to book a boat tour during the summer months, when the weather is mild.
The Amalfi Coast
Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast is located just to the south of the Bay of Naples, and popular driving tours from Naples and Sorrento on the Bay of Naples including highlights like Amalfi and its famous Duomo, the colorful houses of Positano, and Ravello’s famous scenic terraces over the Mediterranean Sea.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 31
Mergellina
The historic center of Naples tumbles so effortlessly downhill toward the sea that you might not know the seafront area actually has a different name all its own—Mergellina.
Mergellina actually used to be a separate town, but when Naples grew it was eventually subsumed by the expanding metropolis in the early 20th century. Today, this neighborhood sits between the foot of the Posillipo Hill and the Bay of Naples. There are many restaurants and hotels in the area, and it's ideal for an evening stroll in the summer.
If you're taking a ferry from Naples out to Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast or any of the islands, it's likely that your departure dock will be in Mergellina. It's not the main port for the big cruise ships, but it's where many of the small hydrofoils and other smaller boats depart.
Practical Info
The area known as Mergellina extends along the waterfront between two streets—Via Caracciolo and Via Partenope. If you're looking for a place to enjoy fresh seafood, the restaurants in Mergellina don't have to go far for the day's catch.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 27
Posillipo Hill
Naples is an enormous, sprawling city, and although some of the population lives in the historic center – where most visitors spend their time – most live in neighborhoods surrounding the city center. One of the prettiest and wealthiest neighborhoods in Naples is Posillipo, located on the northern side of the Gulf of Naples atop a hill that overlooks the water.
From the port in Naples you'll wind your way north through the city center and then along the coast to Posillipo Hill, where you'll see some of the city's most beautiful houses. In some cases, these villas have been broken up more recently into apartments – but many of them are still private homes for elite Neapolitan families. Without a car, you can take the funicular from the Mergellina neighborhood below up to the top of Posillipo Hill.
Because the neighborhood on Posillipo Hill is primarily residential, there aren't many attractions on the hill that you'll have on your itinerary. It's an excellent spot for a picturesque stroll, particularly when the weather is clear and you can see across the Gulf of Naples to Mt. Vesuvius looming to the south. There are good restaurants in Posillipo, too, which are less apt to cater to tourists – something you might be craving if you're an adventurous foodie.
Posillipo Hill does have a couple of sights worth checking out. The ruin of an ancient Roman villa is at the bottom of the hill on the water, including the remains of an amphitheater built into the hill. Access to the ruin is via the Grotta di Seiano, a cave underneath the hill. Shopaholics will also appreciate the outdoor Posillipo Market, in which you'll find everything from housewares to designer duds (it's only open on Thursdays). The ancient Roman poet Virgil wished to be buried in Naples, and the spot that is said to have been his tomb is at the base of Posillipo Hill (never mind that no remains are there – it's still a pilgrimage location). There are also two parks dedicated to Virgil in Posillipo – one at the top of the hill, and one at the bottom. Both can be a welcome respite from the bustle that is Naples.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 35
Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica)
Travelers looking to venture back in time can explore the eight ramps that delve some 33 yards deep into the depths of Chiaia on an incredible tour of the Bourbon Tunnel, or Galleria Borbonica. What was once a veterinary laboratory, and even earlier an escape route from the Royale Palace to a barrack in Via della Pace, is today one of Naples' top attractions for history lovers wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the city's culture and heritage.
Visitors can choose from a number of tours designed to highlight this unique attraction that operated as a military hospital during World War II and even as the Hall Judicial Outpost. Guides share in-depth details and stories while visitors navigate the tunnel's depths. Travelers say that while it can be difficult to find, the experience of stepping back in time and far below the Naples' surface is not to be missed!
Practical Info
Galleria Borbonica is located at Vico del Grottone, 4 in Naples. It is accessible by bus or tram to Piazza Vittoria and walking to Domenico Morelli car park, where the entrance to the Bourbon Tunnel is located. Tours take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Address: Vico del Grottone, 4, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Catacombs of San Gennaro (Catacombe di San Gennaro)
Naples’ paleo-Christian Catacombs of San Gennaro (Catacombe di San Gennaro) are the most important in southern Italy. Used as a burial site from the rise of Christianity until the 10th century, they hold the tombs of many bishops—including Sant’Agrippino, the original patron saint of Naples—and well-preserved mosaics.
The Basics
The Catacombs of San Gennaro, carved out of the soft tufo stone beneath Naples (Napoli), were used for thousands of Christian burials over 14,000 years, beginning in the second century. Now an archaeological site, the catacombs can be visited only with an official guided tour, so it is imperative to book ahead. You can also opt for a Naples walking tour that includes a visit to the Neapolitan catacombs and crypts with a tour guide. Naples’ second most important catacombs, the San Gaudioso Catacombs, are located beneath the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità and are included with a Catacombe di San Gennaro ticket.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temperature in the catacombs is quite chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweater to stay warm during your visit.
- You will be on your feet during your catacomb tour, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- The catacombs are fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The San Gennaro Catacombs are located in the Sanità neighborhood near the Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte. Catch bus 168, 178, C63 or R4 to stop n. 1246 (National Museum) and continue on foot to Via Capodimonte. The entrance is next to the large church of Madre del Buon Consiglio.
When to Get There
Naples’ “city of the dead” is open 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm. It’s cool all day long underground, so the catacombs are a welcome respite from the midday summer heat. Consider booking a tour during the warmest times of the day for a refreshing break.
San Gennaro and the Basilica di Sant’Agrippino
San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples, was buried in these catacombs in the fifth century, and his tomb is one of the tour highlights (although his remains were later moved to the Cathedral of Naples). The catacombs are also home to the earliest known portrait of the saint, as well as the fourth-century underground Basilica di Sant’Agrippino.
Address: Via di Capodimonte 13, Naples, Italy
Admission: Adults: €8
From $ 10
Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)
One of the most important churches in southern Italy, the impressive Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro) was commissioned in the 13th century by King Charles I of Anjou and completed in the 14th century under Robert of Anjou. The Gothic cathedral was built on and around the paleo-Christian Basilica di Santa Restituta and is dedicated to the city's patron saint, St. Januarius. The duomo sits above fascinating catacombs containing archaeological remains of ancient Greek, Roman, and early Christian civilizations.
The Basics
In addition to a precious reliquary ampule said to contain blood of the saint, the site holds important works of art, including frescoes by Domenichino and Giovanni Lanfranco in the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, paintings by Perugino and Luca Giordano in the main church, and fourth-century mosaics decorating the baptistry. To fully grasp the historic and artistic importance of the Duomo di Napoli, visiting with an expert guide is recommended. Underground archaeology walking tours are an excellent way to explore the catacombs, and a combined tour of the most important churches in Naples—Gesu Nuovo, the Sansevero Chapel, and the duomo—covers the highlights of the city in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The underground archaeological area is open on weekdays all day, and on Sundays until 2pm.
- Consider a day trip to Naples from the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento if you would rather stay somewhere quieter than the center of this bustling capital city.
- The catacombs are completely accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
- San Gennaro is a Catholic church, so modest attire and appropriate decorum are required to enter.
How to Get to There
The cathedral is located in the center of historic Naples on Via Duomo, and can be reached by taking the underground metro to Piazza Cavour.
When to Get There
The region of Campania, especially along the coastline, is very crowded during the summer vacation season. If visiting between June and September, expect large numbers of fellow travelers in Naples.
The Miracle of San Gennaro
The cathedral is dedicated to Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro, whose ampule of blood is shown publicly three times a year—the first Saturday in May, September 19, and December 16—for the Miracle of San Gennaro. If the blood liquefies, good fortune will reign in the city. If not, Naples is said to face tough times. (Luckily, it nearly always liquefies.)
Address: Via Duomo, Naples, 80138, Italy
Hours: Open daily, 9am-noon, 4:30pm-7:30pm. On Sundays and public holidays the chapel is open only in the morning and the archaeological site is closed.
Admission: free
From $ 39
Certosa di San Martino
Once a monastery and now a remarkable museum, the Certosa di San Martino looks over the city of Naples from high above the hill on which it is perched. The impressive structure dates back to the 14th century, when it was first built as a Carthusian monastery. It was expanded in the 16th century, abandoned in the 19th century, and evolved into the museum it is today. The Certosa di San Martino has one of the most celebrated Nativity scenes in the world on display, as well as Bourbon era and Spanish artifacts.
The interior is adorned with frescoes and some of the best Neapolitan art in the world. You’ll find works of Massimo Stanzione, Giuseppe de Ribera, and Battista Caracciolo, among others. Have a look at the intricate mosaic floors, marble inlays, and wood carvings as well.
Tours typically will include viewings of the monastery, monk’s cemetery, cloisters, and church alongside the art. The Be sure to look around at the panoramic views you’ll have of the city and the bay from the top of the hill.
Practical Info
The church and museum is open every day except Wednesday, from 8:30 act o 7:30 pm. To get there, take metro line 1 to Piazza Vanvitelli then bus V1 (or a 15 minute walk.) Another landmark of the city, the Sant'Elmo Castle, is nearby and is also worth a visit.
Address: Largo S. Martino, 5, Naples 80129, Italy
Hours: Open Thurs-Tues 8:30am-7:30pm
Admission: €6
From $ 11
Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei)
There is a hiking trail high above the picturesque Amalfi Coast known as the Path of the Gods, and it offers visitors a chance to get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery without leaving the ground.
The Path of the Gods - or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian - connects two little towns in the hills above the popular Amalfi Coast beach towns. The trail runs between Agerola (above Praiano) and Nocelle (above Positano) for about 4.8 miles.
The trail winds along the coastline, with an average of a 1,640-foot drop to the sea below. The views are spectacular - the lofty position is the reason the trail has such a poetic name. Hikers can start at either end of the trail, there is no “right” direction to walk in, but most start in Agerola because then the hike is primarily downhill to Nocelle and then you can descend some 1,500 steps into Positano itself.
There are many options for guided hikes of the Path of the Gods, which eliminate the need to figure out local buses and find the trailhead. There are day trips from the Amalfi Coast towns as well as Sorrento and Naples.
Practical Info
Be sure you’re wearing good hiking or walking shoes, and bring along plenty of water and sunscreen. You may also want to pack a picnic and stop along the way for lunch. Note that in some areas, the trail runs right next to the edge of the cliff - those with a severe fear of heights may find this disconcerting.
Address: Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy
From $ 617
Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, the imposing fortified castle on the island of Megaride in the Bay of Naples, is one of Naples’ most famous monuments. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the castle—home to the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory—offers sweeping views over the city and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
The Basics
The site on which Naples’ (Napoli’s) iconic castle now stands has a long history, beginning as a settlement for Greek colonists before hosting a monastery and then a 12th-century Norman fortress. The current castle was built during the Aragonese dynasty in the 15th century, and today, the 19th-century fishing village of Borgo Marinari, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and marina, sits at the base of the castle.
Castel dell'Ovo, one of the city’s most important sights, is included on most Naples walking, bike, and Segway tours along with other landmarks like Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel Nuovo, also known as the Maschio Angioino, the city’s inland fortress. As the largest city on the coast of Campania, Naples is a transportation hub and a popular day trip from nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Castel dell’Ovo is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.
- Admission to the castle and the museum is free.
- The inner halls of the castle are open to the public only during special events and exhibitions; the ramparts and towers are always open.
- There is an elevator from the ground floor to the ramparts, making the castle mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel dell’Ovo is located in the Bay of Naples (also called the Gulf of Naples) just off the lungomare (coastal road) between the San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighborhoods. Bus 151 from the train station and 140 from the port stop at Castel dell’Ovo.
When to Get There
The castle is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 7pm, and Sundays and holidays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. The Prehistoric Museum is open only on weekends from 10am to 1pm. As Naples is one of Italy’s most visited cities, its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the best light for snapping photos from the castle’s towers.
The Egg Castle
The origins of the castle’s name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who is said to have placed a magical egg in the foundations beneath where the castle now stands. As long as the egg stays intact, Castel dell’Ovo will remain standing.
Address: via Caracciolo, Naples, 80133, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Galleria Umberto I
One of the most beautiful buildings in Naples, the 19th-century Galleria Umberto I marks the center of the historic downtown like a huge, glass-ceilinged cross. This elegant shopping arcade set between Via Toledo and the San Carlo Theater is included in a number of food and sightseeing tours. It’s the perfect spot for a quick espresso break.
The Basics
Modeled after Milan’s Galleria Emanuele II, Galleria Umberto I was damaged by bombing during World War II, but today the glass dome and roof again shine over its shops and cafés, protecting the ornate architecture and original mosaic floor. Located in one of the most vibrant areas of Naples’ downtown, Galleria Umberto I is a popular gathering place for Neapolitans and tourists.
Most guided walking or Segway tours of Naples take a turn through Galleria Umberto I, as well as important landmarks like Piazza del Gesù, the Duomo, Church of Santa Chiara, and Via San Gregorio Armeno. Naples is known for its bright flavors, and many tours combine sightseeing with tastings of local specialties. Pompeii archaeological park is located just outside Naples, so consider a joining a tour that includes a visit to these famous ruins along with highlights of Naples’ historic center.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Naples walking tours that include a stop at Galleria Umberto I are mostly outdoors; wear sunscreen and a hat in summer, and choose comfortable footwear.
- Galleria Umberto I is located near many of the most popular attractions in Naples, so it’s ideal for a break from sightseeing, or for a quick espresso or gelato.
- Shops inside the gallery sell high-end clothing and accessories, cosmetics, books, and gourmet treats.
- The shopping arcade is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Galleria Umberto I is less than 10 minutes’ walk from Naples’ port or Municipio train station, and sits in the heart of the downtown near the San Carlo Theater and Piazza del Plebiscito. Naples is a major transportation and cruise ship hub, with direct trains from major Italian cities as well as ferries from Salerno and Sorrento.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Galleria Umberto I is from late morning to early evening, when the shops are open for business and the cafés bustle with customers.
Naples’ Historic Center
Naples’ historic center encompasses more than 10 distinct neighborhoods along the Bay of Naples and includes sights and monuments dating from ancient Roman times through the 19th century. Highlights include Piazza del Plebiscito, Spaccanapoli, and the National Archaeological Museum.
Address: Via San Carlo, Naples 80132, Italy
From $ 40
Quartiere Spagnoli
With a warren of narrow alleyways and roughly cobblestoned streets, crammed with small stores, barber’s shops and dimly lit bars, the Quartiere Spagnoli is one of Naples’ most atmospheric local districts. Built to house troops during the Spanish occupation, the historic quarter might be somewhat rundown these days, but it still buzzes with life, with colorful laundry flapping from the balconies, residents sipping espresso on their doorsteps and motorbikes juddering by at all hours of the day and night.
Despite earning itself a rather unsavory reputation in recent years due to an abundance of petty crime and pickpocketing, the Quartiere Spagnoli is still one of Naples’ most characteristic areas and makes a unique addition to a tour itinerary. As well as offering a unique glimpse into everyday life in the city, it’s home to landmarks like the Baroque church of Santa Maria degli Angeli and the 18th-century Palazzo Serra di Cassano.
Practical Info
The Quartiere Spagnoli is located to the west of Via Toledo in central Naples.
Address: Quartieri Spagnoli, Naples, Italy
From $ 81
Capodimonte Museum
Naples’ Capodimonte Museum contains masterpieces from the Neapolitan and other Italian schools, as well as furniture and decorative arts, and ancient Roman sculptures. With works by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio, this museum is a must for art lovers and a popular stop on many private and group tours.
The Basics
Capodimonte Museum is located inside Capodimonte Palace, which was built by the Bourbon King Charles VII of Naples and Sicily to house the Farnese art collection he had inherited. The first and second floors are home to the National Gallery, with more than 100 paintings by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Masaccio, Giorgio Vasari, and El Greco, as well as works from the Neapolitan school. The ground floor holds classical sculpture, and the royal apartments display 18th-century furniture. Surrounding the palace, the 331-acre (134-hectare) Capodimonte Park is one of Naples’ most beautiful estates.
The Capodimonte Museum is one of the largest in Italy, and is best visited with a guided tour to appreciate the collections and grounds without being overwhelmed. To avoid a long wait, book a tour with skip-the-line tickets. Many private Naples tours or hop-on hop-off bus tours include a stop at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the museum is particularly interesting for art enthusiasts who are interested in the Neapolitan school.
- The Capodimonte Museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be checked at the entrance.
- The museum houses a small bookshop and café.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the museum.
How to Get There
The Capodimonte Museum is located just outside the center of Naples, accessible via a number of city bus lines or the convenient museum shuttle bus (Shuttle Capodimonte) that departs hourly from Piazza Trieste e Trento (opposite Teatro San Carlo) and stops at Piazza Dante and the National Archaeological Museum en route. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus.
When to Get There
This popular museum and surrounding park can be very crowded on weekends, so it’s best visited on a weekday. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Highlights of the Capodimonte Museum Collection
Some of the collection’s highlights include the Portrait of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese and the Baronci Altarpiece by Raphael, the Antea by Parmigianino, the Transfiguration by Giovanni Bellini, the Annunciation and the Mary Magdalene by Titian, Masaccio’s Crucifixion, Botticelli's Madonna with Child and Angels, and, most important, Caravaggio’s Flagellation of Christ.
Address: Via Miano, 2, Naples 80137, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Procida
The smallest island in the Campanian Archipelago, a trip to Procida can make a big impression.
Compared to its better known island neighbors, a small number of visitors venture to Procida, making it a great destination for travelers who don’t enjoy crowds. While Chiaiolella Beach is the island’s most popular stretch of sand, the beach at Pozzo Vecchio is known for its role in the film Il Postino.
Lined with a pastel rainbow of buildings, just wandering the narrow streets can provide hours of enjoyment. It’s questionable who has the better view, the houses and churches along the coast, or the many boats anchored offshore.
Practical Info
Procida was created by the eruption of now dormant and submerged volcanoes. It is connected to the Island of Vivara by a narrow bridge. The island, less than 4.1 square kilometers (1.6 square miles), is located between Capo Miseno and the island of Ischia.
Address: Procida, Italy
From $ 1,998
Gardens of Augustus
Perched atop the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples and just a short stroll from Capri’s central Piazzetta square, the lush Gardens of Augustus are a quiet oasis offering mesmerizing views of the tiny cove of Marina Piccola and the soaring Faraglioni sea stacks just off shore.
The Basics
Laid out by Friedrich August Krupp in the early 20th century, these exquisite botanical gardens are a tribute to Capri’s native flora, with flower-lined footpaths, lawns, and monumental fountains; and terraced gardens bursting with vibrant geraniums and dahlias. Perhaps the most impressive feature of the park is its striking location directly above Via Krupp, a paved switchback footpath that snakes down the cliff side to the water’s edge below. The path has been closed due to rock slides, but the view of its zigzagging path from above is unforgettable.
The Gardens of Augustus is one of the most beloved attractions on the island of Capri, and a highlight of any tour, day trip, or shore excursion to the island from Rome, Naples, or Sorrento. Most boat tours or day cruises to the island include free time on land to explore sights like the gardens and the Charterhouse of San Giacomo, along with a sail around Capri’s coast and a stop to visit the Blue Grotto.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most of the towns of Capri and Anacapri are pedestrian only, so must be explored on foot. The lanes are often steep and paved with cobblestones, so wear comfortable shoes and, in summer, sunscreen and a hat.
- The gardens are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers due to stairs at the entrance.
- There are sweeping views from the panoramic overlooks in the gardens, so bring your camera.
- No food or drink is allowed inside the gardens.
- Visitors must stay on the footpaths, so young children who may be tempted to strike out across the lawns should be carefully supervised.
How to Get There
The Gardens of Augustus are adjacent the Charterhouse of San Giacomo in the center of Capri town. From the main Piazzetta square, follow Via Vittorio Emanuele to Via Federico Serena, and then take Via Matteotti to the garden entrance.
When to Get There
The gardens are lovely when there are few visitors, so time your visit either in the early morning or late afternoon.
The Marvelous Via Krupp
The Gardens of Augustus overlook one of the most remarkable feats of engineering on the island of Capri: the paved pedestrian footpath that follows a series of switchbacks steeply down the mountainside from the gardens to sea level below. Commissioned by the German steel magnate Friedrich Alfred Krupp at the beginning of the 20th century to provide a route to reach his private yacht moored below, this magnificently scenic route clinging to the cliffside has been closed for the past few years due to falling rocks.
Address: Via Matteotti, Capri 80073, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 64
La Reggia Designer Outlet
Shopping is a popular pastime in Italy, for tourists and Italians alike, but don't be fooled into thinking the Italians are always paying top prices for designer duds. They're often shopping at outlet malls, too. Near Naples, the outlet mall of choice is La Reggia Designer Outlet.
La Reggia is located just south of Caserta, near the town of Marcianise, roughly 30 miles north of Naples. The outlet is designed like a modern outdoor mall, with arcades lined with shops on both sides. There are more than 100 shops in all at La Reggia, featuring discounts of 30 to 70 percent off retail prices.
You'll find Italian, European, American and many other international brands, including Armani, Diesel, Camper, Guess, Michael Kors, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Replay, Timberland and Valentino.
Practical Info
La Reggia is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday until 11 p.m. There are €10 shuttle buses that connect Naples with the outlets, departing from Piazza Municipio daily starting at 9:30 a.m. If you drive, there's free parking available. There is also a playground for the kids, a tailoring service and free Wi-Fi.
Address: Strada Provinciale 336 Sannitica, Marcianise, Italy
Hours: Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-10 p.m.;
Sat-Sun until 11 p.m.
From $ 14
Fontanelle Cemetery (Cimitero delle Fontanelle)
Despite the name, Fontanelle Cemetery in Naples isn’t a traditional cemetery. It’s a place of many thousands of burials, but it’s actually an ossuary built into a natural cave in the soft rock underneath the Capodimonte Hill in the early 16th century. It served as a burial ground until the late 1960s.
The bones interred at Fontanelle were painstakingly catalogued and re-organized in the early 1870s, after flooding and mass burials had made the cemetery more of a jumbled mess. A cult devoted to the skulls in the cemetery sprang up, and a church was built at the entrance. Today, visitors can still see the church - Maria Santissima del Carmine - as well as the cataloging work done in the 19th century.
Prior to 2010, Fontanelle was only open to the public on a few days every year. Now, it’s open year-round. Visitors are free to walk through the site without a guide, though joining a tour that includes Fontanelle Cemetery as one of its stops is beneficial to help make sense of the history of the place. Tours that include off-the-beaten-path parts of Naples sometimes include Fontanelle Cemetery.
Practical Info
Note that if you do decide to visit on your own without a tour, some people may try to sell you tickets outside the entrance. Entry to the cemetery is free, so don’t pay for a ticket.
Address: Via Fontanelle 80, Naples 80136, Italy
Hours: 10am-5pm daily
From $ 42
Pio Monte della Misericordia
This small octagonal church is best known as the home to Caravaggio’s The Seven Works of Mercy. Many visitors come to see the famous Caravaggio prominently hung high above the altar not realizing the extensive collection of other artists on display. Some hang in the church itself, other in the Quadreria, or Picture Gallery.
Pio Monte della Misericordia (Pious Mount of Mercy) is a charitable institution, founded in the early 1600s by seven Neapolitan nobles who strived to help those in need. The organization continues their work today.
Practical Info
Pio Monte della Misericordia is located in the historical center of Naples, opposite the Riario Sforza square. Free audio guides in Italian, English, French, German and Spanish are included with admission. Pio Monte della Misericordia is closed on Wednesdays.
Address: Via dei Tribunali, 253, Naples 80139, Italy
From $ 458