Just a 3-hour flight from the Netherlands lies Naples, a city that will surprise you. Forget all the negative stories you’ve heard. During my 6-day solo adventure in this vibrant Italian city, I discovered why Naples is becoming increasingly popular with travelers. From the iconic Vesuvius to authentic pizzas: this guide shares all the Naples attractions you can’t miss!
Why Visit Naples? My Honest Experience
Before I left for Naples, I mainly heard negative stories. “Too busy”, “not clean”, “dangerous”, the list was long. But I can tell you from experience: Naples is a hidden gem on the Amalfi coast that has much more to offer than the prejudices suggest.
In 6 days, I climbed Vesuvius, explored the burning grounds of Solfatara, cycled through the royal gardens of Caserta, and even made a day trip to Rome. And the best part? I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Practical Info: Best Time to Visit Naples
- Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, fewer tourists, temperatures 15-22°C
- Summer (June-August): Busy and hot (up to 30°C+), perfect beach weather
- Fall (September-November): My favorite! Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
- Winter (December-February): Cheap, quiet, but some attractions closed
The Best Way to Explore Naples
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Naples
First tip: book a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour. I always do this when exploring a new city, and it worked perfectly in Naples. With traditional Italian music in your ears and spectacular views from the top deck, you quickly get insight into the city.
💡 Booking tip: Book your Hop-on Hop-off ticket here, which is often cheaper online than on the spot!
From the bus, I discovered beautiful places like the dome of Santa Maria della Sanità, where you can admire the valuable frescoes from the 5th and 6th centuries in the Catacombe di San Gaudioso.
Top Naples Attractions in the Center
Centro Storico – The Historic Heart (UNESCO World Heritage)
Naples’ old town is not on the UNESCO World Heritage list for nothing. This is the place to get lost in narrow streets and taste the authentic Neapolitan atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
- The iconic statue of Pulcinella in the small alleys
- The many artisan shops and studios
- The lively squares where locals gather
Insider tip: Come early in the morning (before 10:00 AM) for the best photos without crowds of tourists.
Quartieri Spagnoli – The Spanish Quarter
This working-class neighborhood has a turbulent history. Where poverty and crime once reigned, you’ll now find one of the most authentic and cozy neighborhoods in Naples. Perfect for a relaxed walk along colorful facades and local shops.
Photo moment: The famous mural of Maradona, an icon in Naples!
The Most Beautiful Squares of Naples
Piazza Dante
This square became my daily meeting point with the city. Close to the metro stop (super convenient!) and surrounded by cozy terraces where I enjoyed a perfect cappuccino several times.
Restaurant tip: Try an authentic Neapolitan pasta here at one of the terraces overlooking the square.
Piazza del Plebiscito
The largest and most impressive square in Naples. Surrounded by the royal palace Palazzo Reale and the imposing San Francesco di Paola church. This square is definitely on my list for next time!
Photo tip: Come at sunset for magical light on the palace facade.
Galleria Umberto I – Italian Grandeur
This world-famous gallery from 1887-1891 is an architectural masterpiece. The height and glasswork are breathtaking, especially when you consider that this was built over 130 years ago!
Free admission – perfect for a quick stop during your walk through the center.
Naples Churches: Spiritual Highlights
Duomo di Napoli (Cattedrale di San Gennaro)
The most important cathedral in Naples is dedicated to San Gennaro, the patron saint of the city. The story behind it is fascinating:
The Blood Miracle of San Gennaro:
- San Gennaro was beheaded in 305 and became a martyr
- Two ampoules with his blood are kept in the cathedral
- Every year on September 19, the blood becomes liquid (the “miracle”)
- When this happens, 21 cannon shots are fired from Castel dell’Ovo
Admission: Free, open daily
Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo
The most unusual church facade I’ve ever seen! The pointed stone blocks on the outside don’t suggest at all that this is a beautiful church. Inside you’ll find impressive frescoes and Baroque splendor.
My mistake: I didn’t go inside then, make sure you do!
Basilica di Santa Chiara
This religious complex contains a monastery, tomb, and archaeological museum. The cloister garden with majolica tiles is world-famous – an oasis of peace in the midst of the bustle.
Admission price: About €6 | Closes early, check times in advance!
Castles and Forts of Naples
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Built in 1279, not as a fort but as a royal palace. King Robert had a passion for art and literature and made this castle the cultural center of the kingdom.
Visit tip: Climb to the towers for fantastic views over the harbor and Vesuvius!
Castel dell’Ovo
The oldest fort in Naples, strategically located on the former island of Megaride. This is where the 21 cannon shots are fired during the San Gennaro miracle.
Admission: Free! Sunset from the terrace is magical.
Eating Pizza in Naples: The Best Pizzerias
Naples is the birthplace of pizza – and you can taste it! In 1889, pizza maker Raffaele Esposito made a pizza for Queen Margherita. She was so enthusiastic that the pizza was named after her: Pizza Margherita.
1. L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Famous from the movie “Eat Pray Love”
- Only two pizzas on the menu: Margherita and Marinara
- My experience: First ate takeaway on the street, then still went inside once more – so good!
- Price: €4-6 per pizza
- Tip: Come just before or after lunchtime to avoid lines
2. Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo
- Long lines, but worth the wait
- Creative pizzas alongside classics
- Heart of Centro Storico
3. Pizzeria Di Matteo
- Favorite of Bill Clinton (really!)
- Authentic and affordable
- Ideal for quick lunch
Reserve online or come early – these pizzerias are popular!
Do also check these tips on how to eat like a local in Italy. You might learn a thing or two about how and when to drink coffee or an apperativo and where to eat the best spaghetti!
Unique Attractions Around Naples
Solfatara – Walk on Volcanic Grounds
One of my most special experiences! Solfatara is a shallow volcanic crater on the edge of Naples, part of the Phlegraean Fields.
What makes it special:
- Super educational with informative signs
- Last eruption in 1198 – now “sleeping” volcano
- You see steam coming from the ground due to the heat
- Feels like walking on Mars!
Climbing Vesuvius – Must-Do!
You can’t skip this during your Naples trip! The iconic volcano that buried Pompeii in 79 AD is surprisingly easy to climb.
Read more about my climbe
How to get there:
- Take train to Ercolano (Circumvesuviana line)
- Bus to starting point (€10 return, runs every hour)
- Walk to crater: 30 minutes, quite challenging
- View: unforgettable!
Best time: Early in the morning (cooler) or late afternoon (better light)
⚠️ Important: Book tickets online in advance, especially in high season!
💡 Reserve your Vesuvius access + bus transfer here
Pompeii Day Trip
Although I had already visited Pompeii before, this is an absolute must if you’re in the area. The ancient Roman city, buried under ash in 79 AD, is surprisingly well preserved.
From Naples:
- Train: 40 minutes with Circumvesuviana
- Tour with guide: Recommended for the stories behind the ruins!
⏰ Plan at least 4 hours for your visit
💡 Book your skip-the-line Pompeii tour here – avoid long waits!
Royal Palace of Caserta – Versailles of Italy
One of my favorite days during the trip! This former royal palace with its enormous gardens is breathtaking.
My experience:
- Bike rental in the garden: €10 for 3 hours (absolutely worth it!)
- The garden is so large you can cycle for hours
- Several beautiful fountains
- Waterfall at the end – visible from palace, but 2 km cycling!
UNESCO World Heritage since 1997, deservedly!
In the garden, which you can really call a whole park, there are several fountains.
The gardens and the palace were placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.
Day Trip to Rome from Naples
Yes, this is really possible! When I discovered that Rome was only 1 hour away by high-speed train, I couldn’t resist.
My experience:
- High-speed train (Frecciarossa): Over 300 km/hour!
- Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Special moment: Pressure difference in your ears through tunnels through mountains
- Perfect for a day in Rome
Costs: From €20 one way (book in advance = cheaper!)
I had already been to Rome before, but still, I couldn’t resist. When I found out that I could easily go back and forth to Rome with a high-speed train, I booked a ticket. The train went no less than over 300 km per hour, but then you’re there in just over an hour. So for a day in Rome, that’s very doable.
Want to explore more of Italy?
Check out this 10 day roadtrip Italy itinerary
Read more
Where to Stay in Naples?
I stayed in Bagnoli (coastal area), which is quieter than the center but requires taking the train every day.
My recommendation for 2025:
- Centro Storico: For atmosphere and proximity to attractions
- Vomero: Quiet residential area with beautiful views
- Chiaia: Chic neighborhood, slightly more expensive but safe
💡 Find the best hotels in Naples here
Have you also been to Naples and are you missing something that definitely belongs in this list of Naples Attractions? Tell me, then I’ll definitely take it along next time!
- Cycling outside of Rome – Exploring Bracciano and Martignano lake
- Hiking in Austria – Alpe Adria Trail
- Visit Medieval Monschau – Eifel, Germany
- Discover Ibiza and Formentera – Spain
- Citytrip Trondheim – Norway