Choose from 42 Fun Things to Do in Naples
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Ischia
Ischia is often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor, Capri, but this island in Italy's Bay of Naples offers many delights, including natural hot springs, beautiful scenery, excellent cuisine, and the resort towns of Casamicciola Terme and Lacco Ameno.
The Basics
Travelers visit the island of Ischia, the largest in the Gulf of Naples, to relax in the thermal spas, explore the 21 miles (34 kilometers) of coastline, hike the peak of Mt. Epomeo, and dine at its waterfront restaurants. You can tour Ischia island by sea on a boat tour that also stops at the tiny island of Procida nearby or by land on a food and wine tasting tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A day trip to Ischia is perfect for a beach break or a relaxing soak in the thermal baths.
- If you join a walking tour of the island, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunblock.
- The scenery on Ischia is particularly beautiful, so it's worth packing your camera.
How to Get There
Ischia is located off the coast of Campania, and you can take a ferry from Naples, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast to the island's main town of Ischia Porto in about an hour, making it an easy day trip.
When to Get There
Ischia can be very crowded in summer between June and September, so spring and fall—when the weather is warm but the crowds have yet to arrive—are the best times to visit.
Beach Views on Ischia
There are a number of lovely beaches along the coast—the most famous include Sant'Angelo below Serrara Fontana, Maronti Beach near Barano d'Ischia, and Citara near Panza. The imposing 15th-century Aragonese Castle (Castello Aragonese) at Ischia Ponte and the English-style La Mortella Gardens in Forio are also popular attractions. Ischia is also close enough to the coast of southern Italy to offer lovely views along the coastline and over Mt. Vesuvius.
Address: Ischia Porto, Italy
From $ 226
Santa Chiara
One of the most important churches in the center of Naples, Santa Chiara is part of a larger religious complex housing a monastery and archaeological museum. Its most remarkable feature is the beautiful cloister, with elaborately painted Rococò majolica decorations covering the columns, benches, and garden walls.
The Basics
Santa Chiara was built in 1310 in the Gothic style by King Robert of Anjou for his second wife, Sancha of Majorca, and included two adjacent convents, one for nuns and one for monks. In the mid-1700s, the church was remodeled in a Baroque style; however, most of Santa Chiara was destroyed in 1943 during World War II bombings. When it was rebuilt 10 years later, it was returned to its original Gothic design. The spectacular 18th-century cloister survived intact, and today it’s the highlight of a visit to what is officially known as the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara. The complex also includes the Museo dell’Opera Francescana, a traditional Neapolitan Nativity scene, and the archaeological area with Roman remains discovered in the aftermath of the war.
A visit to Santa Chiara is a highlight of any tour of Naples’ historic center, as it sits right along the famous Spaccanapoli thoroughfare just across from the Church of Gesù Nuovo. Join a walking or Segway tour of this vibrant city that also includes stops at Via San Gregorio Armeno, Sant’Angelo a Nilo, and the Castel Nuovo fortress. Foodies can opt for a Naples food and sightseeing tour to sample some of the city’s famous street food, and history buffs can combine a visit to Naples with a tour of the Roman ruins at Pompeii, just outside the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Modest attire is required to enter the church, so be sure to cover shoulders and knees.
- The complex is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Walking tours of the historic center of Naples cover a fair bit of ground; choose comfortable footwear.
- The complex houses a café, restrooms, and a bookshop.
How to Get There
Santa Chiara is located in the square of Gesù Nuovo along the pedestrian Spaccanapoli thoroughfare. Much of the historic center of Naples consists of narrow alleys and tight corners, so walking is the easiest mode of transport from the city’s port and main train station. Naples is a major transportation and cruise ship hub, with direct trains from major Italian cities and ferries from Salerno and Sorrento.
When to Get There
Naples can be uncomfortably hot in summer, so try to visit in spring or fall months or schedule your tour to begin in the early morning before the temperatures soar. The complex is open daily, although it’s closed on Sunday afternoons.
Highlights of the Historic Center of Naples
Santa Chiara is located in Naples’ historic center of Naples, which consists of more than 10 distinct neighborhoods along the Spaccanapoli. Highlights include the 13th-century Castel Nuovo, the Teatro di San Carlo (the oldest opera house in Italy), and Piazza Plebiscito. Roman and Greek ruins lie below the center, and the National Archaeological Museum houses artifacts unearthed at Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Address: Via S. Chiara, 49, Naples 80134, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Museo Cappella Sansevero
Located on the vibrant street of Spaccanapoli, which cuts through the heart of Naples’ centro storico, the ethereal Cappella Sansevero had its origins in the tail end of the 16th century, when it was the mausoleum of the patrician Di Sangro dynasty. The name translates into English as the ‘alchemist’s chapel’ and it was extended by the eccentric Raimondo di Sangro, the seventh Prince of Sansevero, who lived between 1710 and 1771; he was an extraordinarily gifted man but as a Mason, he was considered by contemporary Neapolitans to have made a pact with the devil. Clad in ghostly white marble, with a multi-colored marble floor and ceiling frescoes of almost frenzied ornateness by Francesco Maria Russo, the chapel is stuffed with works by some of the greatest names on the 18th-century Naples art scene – among its treasures are Giuseppe Sanmartino’s amazingly realistic sculpture Cristo Velato (The Veiled Christ). The crypt below the chapel contains the macabre remains of Raimondo di Sangro’s experiments with anatomy – skeletons crawling with arteries and veins – and Masonic symbols cover the walls.
Practical Info
Via Francesco De Sanctis, 19/21. Open Mon–Sat 9.30am–6.30pm; Sun 9.30am–2pm. Admission adults €7; concessions €5. Take the Metropolitana line 1 to Università or line 2 to Piazza Cavour.
Address: Via Francesco De Sanctis, 19/21, Naples, Italy
Hours: Open Mon–Sat 9.30am–6.30pm; Sun 9.30am–2pm
Admission: Adults: €7
From $ 42
Parco Virgiliano
The ancient Roman poet Virgil didn't die in Naples, but the city had stolen his heart and he said he wanted to be buried there. At least that's what the Neapolitans say. On the pretty Posillipo Hill, there are three attractions associated with Virgil – two parks, and his supposed tomb. Both parks have variations on the same name – Parco Virgiliano.
At the base of the Posillipo Hill, the Parco Virgiliano a Piedigrotta (also known as the Parco Virgiliano a Mergellina, the neighborhood below Posillipo) includes a winding path up the side of the hill, with plants on either side and great views over the Gulf of Naples and beyond. Partway up the hill, the supposed location of Virgil's tomb is at the end of a long tunnel. Although it's less of a pilgrimage destination now, it's still popular with some visitors.
At the top of Posillipo Hill is the other Parco Virgiliano (also called Parco Virgiliano a Posillipo). In addition to green space, this park also has a few playgrounds for kids and a small amphitheater where there are sometimes performances in the summer months. The park on top of the hill is a perfect place to enjoy the views over the historic city, the water, and even Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.
Even if you're not staying in the posh Posillipo neighborhood, it can be an excellent place to spend a romantic evening, with a walk through the park, dinner at a nice restaurant, and a parting view over the lit-up city before heading back to your hotel for the night.
Address: Viale Virgilio, Naples 80123, Italy
From $ 27
Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)
You can hardly turn over a spade of soil in any Italian city without uncovering centuries of history, and Naples is no exception. Beneath the teeming modern center, Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea) takes you through the remains of the ancient city’s infrastructure covering almost two millennia.
The Basics
Descend more than 130 feet (40 meters) below the lively streets of Naples to explore the city’s history, from the aqueducts dug by the ancient Greeks who lived in this area 2,400 years ago and later used by the Romans to the caverns excavated from the soft tufo stone and used as air raid shelters during World War II. A Naples Underground tour also includes visits to a fourth-century water cistern and the ruins of a Roman theater where Emperor Nero once performed.
Naples Underground is open to the public only as part of a guided tour, so booking in advance is imperative, especially during the busy summer months. You can also visit this underground city on a general Neapolitan walking tour or in combination with the nearby archaeological ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an expert tour guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The walking path through the underground city isn’t challenging, but comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended even in summer, as it can be cool underground.
- Photography is allowed, so be sure to bring your camera.
- The route is well lit, though there is a short stretch during which visitors walk by candlelight. For this reason, children under 3 years old are not allowed.
- There are more than 100 steps down to access the tour route, so the tour is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The street-level entrance to Naples Underground is at Piazza San Gaetano 68, along Via dei Tribunali in the historic center of the city. From the train station, you can take the metro line 1 to the Dante stop, or bus R2. Otherwise, opt for a tour that includes transportation to the piazza.
When to Get There
Naples Underground tours operate year-round. It is one of the most popular sights in Naples, so be sure to book well ahead of time if visiting in summer. The best time to visit is during the afternoon heat, as the cool underground caverns and tunnels offer a welcome respite.
The Summa Cavea
Naples Underground also includes the recently discovered Summa Cavea, the highest section of spectator seating from an ancient Greco-Roman theater under Vico Cinquesanti just behind Piazza San Gaetano.
Address: Piazza San Gaetano, 68, Naples, Campania 80132, Italy
Admission: Adults: €9
From $ 12
Saint Lucia Neighborhood
At one point in history, Naples was divided into more than two dozen neighborhoods. Present day city geography breaks Naples into 10 municipalities, but the neighborhood names like Saint Lucia are often still used when referring to various parts of the city.
Saint Lucia refers to the area surrounding the Castel dell'Ovo or Egg Castle. The neighborhood has been the subject and inspiration for some traditional Neapolitan songs, the best-known simple titled Santa Lucia. Numerous lyric renditions are known and recognized around the world.
Practical Info
Situated by the Bay of Naples, the Saint Lucia Neighborhood enjoys nice seaside views. The waterfront location includes a long promenade popular with walkers and joggers. There are also many hotels and restaurants that take advantage of the views.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 27
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi
The 15th-century church Sant’Anna dei Lombardi, also known as Santa Maria di Monte Oliveto, is home to some of Naples' best art. With Baroque paintings and an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, the church's unassuming exterior gives way to intricately-decorated ceilings and elaborately-adorned walls that evoke feelings of marvel and beauty like a small-scale Sistine Chapel.
Don’t miss the elaborate sacristy, which was done by Giorgio Vasari, or the beautiful chapel at the back of the church—a crowd-favorite. Walk through the building to enter the courtyard, which is adorned with a bronze sculpture of Charles II of Spain and what is considered to be one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy.
There are many churches in Naples, and many of them are worth a visit. Consider livening up your visit to Sant'Anna dei Lombardi on a private Vespa or Fiat 500 tour of Naples' most famous sights.
Practical Info
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi is located in Piazza Monteoliveto, in the center of Naples. The nearest metro station is Toledo.
The church is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 1:30pm and from 2pm to 4pm. It is open Friday and Saturday from 2pm to 6pm. The church is free to enter, but a EUR 5 donation will get you into areas that are currently being restored.
Address: Piazza Monteoliveto, 4, Naples 80134, Italy
Hours: Mon–Thu: 10am–1:30pm & 2–4pm; Fri & Sat: 2–6pm
From $ 39
San Lorenzo Maggiore
There are hundreds of historic churches in Naples, so narrowing down the must see list can be hard. San Lorenzo Maggiore is worth saving time for on your busy itinerary.
It’s at San Lorenzo Maggiore where poet Boccaccio is said to have met Fiammetta. During a visit here you’ll see a beautiful church, get a history lesson and an amazing glimpse of underground Naples.
The Monumental Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore contains the church and a museum that covers its remarkable history. It is constructed atop a Roman marketplace, so when speaking of San Lorenzo, it may refer to the church, the museum or archaeological site beneath. A large portion of the marketplace has been excavated and visitors are allowed to wander around to see the well-preserved remains of ancient shops. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, the marketplace is the only large-scale Greco-Roman site excavated in the downtown area.
Practical Info
San Lorenzo Maggiore is located in the historical center of Naples, on the south side of Piazza San Gaetano. Use Piazzetta San Gaetano to access the basilica, and the archaeological area. Admission to the Church is free, but there is a fee to enter the museum and go underground.
Address: Via del Tribunali, 316, Naples 80138, Italy
From $ 493
San Domenico Maggiore
Set on a busy square and surrounded by palaces, a visit to the 13th-century San Domenico Maggiore offers visitors the chance to see a beautiful church and lively piazza.
The new Church of San Domenico Maggiore was built between 1283 and 1324. It incorporates a smaller church, the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa – you can see the remains inside—first built at the same location in the 10th century. Like many churches, San Domenico Maggiore has undergone many renovations and remodels over its long history. In 1670, it underwent a Baroque redo, only to be restored to its original Gothic design in the 19th century.
San Domenico Maggiore contains well-known Renaissance art including frescoes by Pietro Cavallini and copies of works by Caravaggio and Titian.
Practical Info
Along with the main entrance, there is a second entrance into the Church through the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa from Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. Located near the center of Naples, the piazza is a bustling place, crowded with locals and visitors.
Address: Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, 8, Naples 80134, Italy
From $ 29
Mt Vesuvius
Looming above the Bay of Naples, Mt. Vesuvius erupted in AD 79 and covered Pompeii in ash, preserving parts of the ancient city that can still be seen today. The volcano itself is still active—the only active one in continental Europe—and, though dormant, is considered to be one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes. Despite this, many visitors hike the mountain to see its infamous crater and are rewarded with stunning views of Pompeii, the Bay of Naples, and the surrounding Italian countryside.
The Basics
Mt. Vesuvius is easily seen from below, but a trip to the volcano itself provides the best understanding of the area and its impact on the region’s history. A hike up the mountain begins in Mount Vesuvius National Park, which has nine nature trails and allows for summit access. The crater’s lunar landscape is otherworldly, and the views are tough to beat. Many visitors combine a visit to the area with a stop in the scenic seaside town of Sorrento.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mt. Vesuvius is ideal for both outdoor lovers and history buffs.
- Hiking is best suited for clear days when you can enjoy the views.
- If you plan to hike, wear comfortable walking shoes. The paths are often dusty and rocky, so closed-toe shoes are best.
- You can walk to the edge of the crater only with a certified guide.
How to Get There
Mount Vesuvius National Park is easily accessible from Naples via the Circumvesuviana train. The nearest stop is Ercolano, and from there the Busvia del Vesuvio takes you up the mountain. There’s also a local bus that runs from Pompeii. Alternatively, you can book a private or guided tour, which provides transportation, crater access, and insight into the history and details of ancient life in the area.
When to Get There
Though Mt. Vesuvius is visitable open year-round, the best time to go is in the off-season, October to April. Crowds and temperatures both rise during summer. Spring and early fall provide the best times to avoid the area’s potential fog.
The Eruption That Changed History
It’s impossible to understand the impact that Mt. Vesuvius had on Italy—and the world—without a visit to the nearby archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Though many people tragically died in the volcanic eruption, their homes and ways of life remain largely intact in one of the world’s best-preserved ancient sites.
Address: Italy
From $ 31
San Francesco di Paola Church
Naples version of the Pantheon, San Francesco di Paola Church is located on the pedestrian-only Piazza del Plebiscito. It’s no doubt the first thing you’ll notice when you step into the piazza.
Originally intended to serves as a monument to Napoleon Bonaparte, when Ferdinand I returned to the throne he constructed the church, dedicating it to the saint of the same name. The 19th century church is circular with two side chapels. Its façade is dominated by six Ionic columns and two pillars. The massive dome is 174 feet (53 meters) high.
Inside the San Francesco di Paola Church are numerous sculptures and paintings by Luca Giordano and other Neapolitan artists.
Practical Info
The Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is located opposite the Royal Palace on the Piazza Plebiscito. Entrance to the Church is free. It closes daily for a few hours in the early afternoon.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Italy
From $ 34
Piazza Trieste e Trento
Piazza Trieste e Trento is the square to see and be seen in Naples. It’s where the most fashionable Neapolitans and visitors linger over an espresso in the landmark Caffé Gambrinus after perusing the stores along Via Toledo and Via Chiaia, two of the city's main shopping thoroughfares that end in this bustling piazza.
The Basics
To one side of Piazza Trieste e Trento stretches the vast Piazza del Plebiscito, one of Italy's most famous public spaces, lined by an elegant sweep of Doric columns, the glorious Palazzo Reale—formerly the royal residence and now a museum—and the domed Church of San Francesco di Paola. To the other side of the square, along Via San Carlo, is the historic Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest continuously active opera house in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits directly across from the 19th-century Galleria Umberto I shopping gallery and virtually next door to the imposing medieval Castel Nuovo. Visit Piazza Trieste e Trento and nearby attractions by joining a Naples history walk, or opt for a Vespa tour or a day of Naples sightseeing by vintage Fiat for a unique private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In addition to shops and boutiques, the neighborhood around Piazza Trieste e Trento is thick with excellent traditional Neapolitan restaurants.
- The adjacent Via Chiaia is pedestrian only, so it’s easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
- The square is one of the most important intersections in Naples, where three of the city's main thoroughfares converge around the central Fontana del Carciofo.
How to Get There
The N1 and N3 buses both stop directly in Piazza Trieste e Trento, and the metro line 1 stops at Piazza del Municipio, a 5-minute walk away. Naples is the largest city in the region of Campania, and a hub for trains and ferries from the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.
When to Get There
Naples is a popular destination, and its attractions can be very hot and crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds, and the late evening to relax with a cocktail during the cooler hours of the day.
The Church of San Ferdinando
The 17th-century Chiesa di San Ferdinando faces onto Piazza Trieste e Trento and is known for its baroque fresco cycle by Paolo de Matteis dating from the late 1600s.
Address: Piazza Trieste e Trento, Naples, 80132, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 185
Via Toledo
Winding past some of Naples' most noteworthy attractions, Via Toledo is one of the city's oldest streets. Travelers who wander down this 0.7-mile (1.2 km) -long stretch of picturesque pavement will pass the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Teatro Augusteo and the stunning Galleria Umberto.
In addition to some incredible architectural and cultural attractions, there are plenty of Italian boutiques and big-name department stores along Via Toledo, while dozens of tasty restaurants set on quiet side streets provide perfect spots to enjoy a traditional Naples lunch. And of course, the street itself is home to what is easily considered the city's best people-watching.
Practical Info
Via Toledo stretches from Piazza Dante to Piazza del Plebiscito. Because this street attracts plenty of travelers and tourists, it's best to be aware of surroundings and keep an eye on personal belongings while shopping.
Address: Via Toledo, Naples, Italy
From $ 39
National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)
A treasure trove of Roman antiquities, Naples’ National Archaeological Museum is home to more than 3,000 artifacts, including bronzes, mosaics, and papyri recovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum; the Farnese Collection of classical gems, semi-precious stones, and sculpture; and the Egyptian collection.
The Basics
Opened in the late 18th century to house Charles III of Bourbon’s private collection, the National Archaeological Museum holds one of the one of the world’s finest collections of Greek and Roman artifacts in the world, with highlights including the Farnese Bull and Hercules sculptures, mosaics from the House of the Faun, frescoes from Villa di Agrippa Postumus and Casa di Meleagro, and bronzes from Villa dei Papiri—all recovered in Pompeii.
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Naples. To avoid a long wait to enter, book a museum tour with skip-the-line tickets. Many Naples walking or hop-on-hop-off tours include a stop at the museum, as do full-day shore excursions. For a deep dive into this important collection, consider a private tour with an archaeologist guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the museum is a must for archaeology buffs, and especially interesting for those with plans to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, where many of the museum’s artifacts were recovered.
- The National Archaeological Museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at baggage check at the entrance.
- The museum houses a small bookshop and cafe.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the museum.
How to Get There
The National Archaeological Museum is located in the center of Naples, easily accessible by metro lines 1 and 2 from across the city.
When to Get There
This popular museum can be crowded on the weekends, so is best visited on a weekday. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Racy History: The Gabinetto Segreto
The museum’s Gabinetto Segreto (or Secret Chamber) contains a small collection of ancient erotica recovered from Pompeii and elsewhere, and has a long history of limited access and censorship; even today, visitors under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The collection includes erotic statues, paintings, and mosaics.
Address: Piazza Museo Nazionale 19, Naples 80135, Italy
Hours: Wed - Mon 9am - 8pm. Closed Tuesdays, Jan 1, May 1, and Dec 25
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
Naples’ Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) is a stellar reminder of this city’s royal history. Construction began in the 1600s when Spain’s Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro ruled Naples, and the site was designed by Renaissance architect Domenico Fontana. Today, visitors can enter to take the soaring double staircase up to the royal apartments decorated by architect Gaetano Genovese.
The Basics
Palace highlights include the Court Theater (Teatrino di Corte) designed by Ferdinando Fuga, the Throne Room, the Hall of Hercules ballroom, and the Royal Chapel (Cappella Reale), home to a monumental 18th-century nativity scene.
The palace is one of the most important historical tourist destinations in central Naples, so it is important to book your Royal Palace of Naples entrance ticket in advance to avoid having to wait in a long line to enter. You can also join a Naples city walking tour or sightseeing tour by Segway or bike that includes visits to the Palazzo Reale, the nearby Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace interiors and courtyard are open daily from 9am to 7pm, with the exception of Wednesdays and holidays.
- The palace and courtyard are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible via an internal elevator.
- There are free storage lockers for small personal belongings, but no luggage storage.
How to Get There
This sumptuous royal residence is located on the central Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest square. Take the ANM R2 bus to the Via San Carlo station, or the metro line 1 to Toledo, a 15-minute walk away. Naples is the capital city of Campania, so easy to reach by train and ferry for a day trip from Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.
When to Get There
The Royal Palace is one of the most important monuments in Naples, and best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds. Entrance is free the first Sunday of the month, so the palace can also be very crowded then.
The Biblioteca Nazionale
The Royal Palace is also home to the National Library, which contains thousands of papyrus scrolls found at Herculaneum as well as the remains of a fifth-century Coptic bible.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, 80132, Italy
Hours: 9am - 8pm, closed Wednesdays
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Piazza del Plebiscito
In a city that can be as overwhelming as Naples, it’s nice to have the expanse of a public square like the enormous Piazza del Plebiscito. This is one of the biggest public piazzas in Naples, and it sits right next to the bay on the edge of the city’s historic center.
The Piazza del Plebiscito and the church of San Francesco di Paola, which borders the square to the west, were both planned in the early 19th century as monuments in honor of then-emperor Napoleon - his brother-in-law being the King of Naples at the time. Construction of both the piazza and the church were completed in 1816, after Napoleon had been exiled.
On the opposite side of the Piazza del Plebiscito, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Naples, a former residence of the Bourbon Kings who ruled in the 18th-19th centuries. The side of the palace that faces the piazza contains niches where the statues of major rulers over the Kingdom of Naples are displayed. One of the statues is of Gioacchino Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law who first began the planning and construction for the piazza over which his statue now looks.
Today, the Piazza del Plebiscito is used for everything from outdoor concerts protest gatherings to to impromptu soccer games among children. The wide, colonnaded arms that emanate from either side of San Francesco di Paola are reminiscent of the arms encircling St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, while the broad dome of the church itself reminds you of Rome’s Pantheon. The scene at the heart of the Piazza del Plebiscito, however, is entirely Naples.
The Piazza del Plebiscito and the church of San Francesco di Paola, which borders the square to the west, were both planned in the early 19th century as monuments in honor of then-emperor Napoleon - his brother-in-law being the King of Naples at the time. Construction of both the piazza and the church were completed in 1816, after Napoleon had been exiled.
On the opposite side of the Piazza del Plebiscito, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Naples, a former residence of the Bourbon Kings who ruled in the 18th-19th centuries. The side of the palace that faces the piazza contains niches where the statues of major rulers over the Kingdom of Naples are displayed. One of the statues is of Gioacchino Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law who first began the planning and construction for the piazza over which his statue now looks.
Today, the Piazza del Plebiscito is used for everything from outdoor concerts protest gatherings to to impromptu soccer games among children. The wide, colonnaded arms that emanate from either side of San Francesco di Paola are reminiscent of the arms encircling St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, while the broad dome of the church itself reminds you of Rome’s Pantheon. The scene at the heart of the Piazza del Plebiscito, however, is entirely Naples.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Italy
From $ 27
San Gregorio Armeno (Christmas Alley)
It’s Christmas all year round at San Gregorio Armeno. The fun, colorful and sometimes crowded alley offers a place to wander and see Naples famed nativity settings and figures called Presepe or Presepio.
First displayed in monasteries in the 16th and 17th century, nativity scenes made their way into aristocratic homes, eventually becoming a tradition for all. Many people put up their nativity scene December 8, the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception, but wait until Christmas Eve to add baby Jesus. Displays often go beyond a manager scene, and can represent the life of an entire community or village.
Practical Info
San Gregorio Armeno is lined with displays and stalls staffed by artists selling Nativity scenes and figures all year round, but as you can imagine, the holiday season can be an especially busy time. Depending on when you go, you may be able to watch craftspeople at work, carving and painting.
Address: Via San Gregorio Armeno, Naples 80138, Italy
From $ 39
Naples Cruise Port
With Mount Vesuvius looming on the horizon, vibrant Naples stretches along the coastline, beckoning visitors to explore its world-class sights. The city’s busy shipping port makes an ideal starting point for a tour, and is also the gateway for visiting some of southern Italy’s most famous attractions.
The Basics
Naples is a fascinating city with a long history and captivating historic center. From the cruise port of Naples, join a private tour to visit the the Royal Palace and other important monuments, or join a walking or Segway tour with a private guide to explore the picturesque neighborhoods in Old Naples and sample the city's famous pizza. Shore excursions depart from the cruise port to other popular sights in the surrounding region of Campania, including the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the islands of Capri and Ischia, the clifftop resort town of Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast’s waterfront villages of Ravello, Positano, and Amalfi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cruise excursions and walking tours usually depart directly from the Naples port of Molo Beverello.
- There is no train service from Naples directly to the Amalfi Coast; you must take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento and transfer to a local bus there. Note that there is limited space on these crowded public buses, so passengers often have to stand for the duration of the 30- to 45-minute trip.
- The commuter Circumvesuviana train runs from the lower level of Naples’ Centrale train station to Pompeii (Pompei stop), Herculaneum (Ercolano stop), and Sorrento, but can be crowded in summer with limited seating.
- Public ferries depart from Molo Beverello and Calata di Massa ports (a shuttle runs between them) for Capri and Sorrento year-round, and for Ischia and Procida in summer. To avoid long ticket lines, consider booking a private boat tour.
How to Get to Naples From the Naples Cruise Port
Most cruise ships dock at Molo Beverello next to the Naples’ cruise ship terminal, the Stazione Marittima. Molo Beverello is set right in the city center, an easy walk to many waterfront sights. The Napoli Centrale train station is located in Piazza Garibaldi and can be reached by public bus or taxi.
Port Information
All the major cruise lines dock at Naples. The Italian currency is the euro, and you’ll find exchange bureaus, banks, and ATMs in the cruise terminal. English isn’t widely spoken as Italian is the local language, but it is usually understood at major tourist sites.
Address: Molo Beverello, Naples 80133, Italy
From $ 27
San Carlo Opera House (Teatro di San Carlo)
Naples' opera house, the Teatro di San Carlo, is not only Italy's oldest opera house—it's also the longest-running opera house in Europe, open since 1737.
The site was built under King Charles VII, a member of the Bourbon monarchy, so the theater was originally called the “Royal” opera house. In November 1737, the opera house opened its doors for the first time, but an 1816 fire consumed the entire interior of the building—only the outer structure was left standing. The theater was rebuilt, and it reopened the next year.
Today, the opera season begins in late January and continues through May. You can also see ballet performances at the theater—that season runs from April through the beginning of June.
Practical Info
The Teatro di San Carlo is located near the Piazza del Plebiscito and is attached to the Royal Palace. Opera ticket prices range from €32 to €400, depending on seat location. Tickets for the symphony and ballet cost less. The opera house also offers 45-minute guided tours in Italian and English every day from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and additionally from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tours of the theater are €6 for adults and €5 for seniors and children.
Address: Via San Carlos, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 40
Piazza del Gesu
One of Naples' more interesting religious sites is the church of Gesù Nuovo in the city's historic center. Its spiky stone facade overlooks the wide open Piazza del Gesu, a popular spot for Neapolitans to meet, mingle and enjoy the fine Mediterranean weather.
The piazza used to be one of the main entrances to the city of Naples, while today it is notable for the two churches that face onto the square and the spire at its center. The 15th-century church of Gesù Nuovo, as mentioned, has an intimidating stone facade that belies its ornately decorated interior. The 14th-century church of Santa Chiara is a monastery and also houses an archaeological museum.
The center of the Piazza del Gesu is marked by an ornate statue called the “Guglia dell'Immacolata,” or Spire of the Immaculate Virgin. It was commissioned in the 17th century to ask the Virgin Mary to protect the city from the plague.
Practical Info
This piazza is great for people-watching during the day, but it really comes alive at night when many of the citizens of Naples use it as their personal drawing room after their typically late dinners.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 29