Just a 3-hour flight from the Netherlands lies Naples, once the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Chaotic and raw, but that’s precisely what makes this city so vibrant and authentic. After my first 6-day stay, I returned twice more for short visits. Sun, stunning views, colours, history, Naples has it all. From the iconic Vesuvius to authentic pizzas: this guide shares all the Naples attractions you can’t miss!
Naples Attractions: What Makes This City Special
Before I travelled to Naples, I heard mainly 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. From iconic Naples attractions like Vesuvius and Pompeii to hidden gems in the Quartieri Spagnoli.
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’d do it all again in a heartbeat!
Practical Information: 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
- Autumn (September-November): My favourite! 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
My 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 a feel for 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 spots like the dome of Santa Maria della Sanità, where you can admire the precious frescoes from the 5th and 6th centuries in the Catacombe di San Gaudioso.
Top Naples Attractions in the Centre
Spaccanapoli & Via dei Tribunali – The Historic Heart (UNESCO World Heritage)
One of the most remarkable streets you’ll ever see: a perfectly straight line cutting right through the historic centre. Spaccanapoli literally means “Naples splitter”, and that’s exactly what this street does – it follows the decumanus inferior from Greco-Roman times..
What you’ll find here:
- The iconic Pulcinella statue – the photo stop of Naples
- Pizza at every corner (literally!)
- Authentic artisan shops
- Churches, palaces, and Neapolitan street life
Insider tip: Via dei Tribunali and Spaccanapoli are actually the same historic route with different street names. Walk the entire length for the complete experience, from pizza to palaces.
Quartieri Spagnoli – Maradona’s Shrine
The Spanish Quarter has transformed from a poor working-class district into a vibrant open-air museum dedicated to Diego Maradona. And if you ask a Neapolitan about Maradona, you’ll see their eyes light up – here, he’s more than a footballer, he’s a saint.
The Maradona Crossroads – A Place of Pilgrimage
The heart of Maradona worship can be found at the crossroads of Vico Lungo Gelso and Via Emanuele de Deo. Here, literally every wall breathes Maradona:
What you’ll see here:
- The famous giant mural of Maradona’s face
- Smaller murals on all surrounding walls
- Graffiti with quotes like “El Pibe de Oro” (The Golden Boy)
The significance: When Maradona died in 2020, this crossroads became a pilgrimage site. Neapolitans gathered en masse to mourn, sing, and honour their hero. You can still feel that energy today.
Museo Casa Maradona
Just a minute’s walk up the hill from the crossroads, you’ll find Museo Casa Maradona – a small but intense museum dedicated to El Diego.
Practical information:
- Location: Vico Cariati 58, Quartieri Spagnoli
- Admission: €8 children, €15 adults
- Tip: Combine your visit with a walk past all the street art
Why Maradona is so Beloved in Naples
In 1984, Maradona came to SSC Napoli, a club that always lost to the wealthy teams from the north. He led the club to two championships (1987 and 1990) – the only ones in Napoli’s history. For this working-class district, Maradona wasn’t a footballer but a liberator who proved they could win too.
This working-class district of Quartieri Spagnoli has a turbulent history. Where poverty and crime once reigned, you’ll now find one of the most authentic and charming neighbourhoods in Naples. Perfect for a leisurely stroll past colourful facades and local shops.
The Most Beautiful Squares in Naples
Piazza Dante
This square became my daily meeting point with the city. Right by the metro stop (super convenient!) and surrounded by cosy terraces where I enjoyed a perfect cappuccino on several occasions.
Piazza del Plebiscito
The largest square in Naples. Surrounded by the royal palace Palazzo Reale and the imposing San Francesco di Paola church. This square is lively, and when I was there, unfortunately partly cordoned off with an army delegation. Also walk into the palace and wander around the open and free section.
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 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)
Naples’ most important cathedral is dedicated to San Gennaro, the city’s patron saint. The story behind it is fascinating:
The Blood Miracle of San Gennaro:
- San Gennaro was beheaded in 305 and became a martyr
- Two ampullae with his blood are kept in the cathedral
- Every year on 19th September, the blood liquefies (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 give no indication that this is a beautiful church. Inside, you’ll find impressive frescoes and Baroque splendour.
My mistake: I didn’t go inside that time, make sure you do! Bear in mind that the church is closed midday, from 1pm to 4pm.
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 calm in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
Admission: Around €6 | Closes early, check times in advance!
Castles and Fortresses of Naples
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Built in 1279, not as a fortress but as a royal palace. King Robert had a passion for art and literature, and made this castle the cultural centre of the kingdom.
Visitor tip: Climb the towers for fantastic views over the harbour and Vesuvius!
Castel dell’Ovo
Naples’ oldest fortress, 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.
Palazzo Reale – The Royal Palace of Naples
You can see the palace from Piazza del Plebiscito, but most visitors just walk past. Go inside – it’s spectacular! I didn’t visit the museum but walked through the long corridors and the courtyard. I read about the history and the reconstruction, which is still ongoing.
History: Built in 1600 as a residence for the Spanish viceroy. Later, the Bourbon kings lived here, and briefly even Napoleon’s family. The palace became the power centre of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
Lungomare – Naples’ Beautiful Boulevard
One of my favourite discoveries: the Lungomare di Napoli, the boulevard along the Gulf of Naples. This is where Neapolitans themselves come to walk, jog, and enjoy the view. At the moment (November 2025), the boulevard is partly closed.
The route (approx. 3 km): Start at Castel dell’Ovo and walk eastward along the coast. You’ll pass:
- Via Caracciolo – the main boulevard
- Villa Comunale – the city park with palm trees
- Fontana del Sebeto – a beautiful fountain
- Piazza della Vittoria – with statue
- Mergellina harbour – end of the walk
Toledo Metro Station
If you’re exploring the city by metro, this is a must-visit and easily combined with visiting Quartieri Spagnoli. Toledo Station won international prizes for its design and was named “Europe’s most beautiful metro station” by The Daily Telegraph.
What makes it special:
- Designed by architect Oscar Tusquets Blanca
- The “Light Crater” effect – you descend through blue light
- Mosaics symbolising the transition from light (sea) to dark (depth)
Other Metro Stations to Visit:
- Università: Neon artworks and modern installations
- Materdei: Sculptures and light art
- Museo: Contemporary art exhibitions
- Garibaldi: Modern architecture and art
Practical tip: Buy a day pass (€4.50). You can visit all the most beautiful stations in one afternoon!
Eating Pizza in Naples: The Best Pizzerias
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and you can taste it! In 1889, pizzamaker 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 film “Eat Pray Love”
- My experience: First had takeaway on the street, then went inside anyway – so good!
- Price: €6 per pizza
- Only four pizzas on the menu: Margherita, Marinara, Cosacca, and Marita (combination of the first two)
- Tip: Come just before or after lunchtime to avoid queues
2. Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo
- Long queues, but worth the wait
- Creative pizzas alongside classics
- Heart of Centro Storico
💡 Practical tip: If you see a long queue at Gino Sorbillo (which is almost always the case), just walk to Antonio! You’ll be seated within 10 minutes.
I wanted to go to Gino Sorbillo but accidentally ended up at Antonio Sorbillo – literally opposite the famous Pulcinella statue on Via dei Tribunali.
Antonio Sorbillo
Why Antonio Sorbillo?
- Good alternative when there’s a queue at Gino’s
- Perfectly located with a view of the Pulcinella statue
- Authentic Neapolitan atmosphere
- Price: €8-15 per pizza
The pizza was truly delicious, but that’s hardly surprising in Naples, of course. The local atmosphere, the view of the busy Pulcinella corner, and that perfect pizza made it a great ending to my second visit to Naples.
Location: Via dei Tribunali, opposite the Pulcinella statue
3. Pizzeria Di Matteo
- Bill Clinton’s favourite (though it was in 1994 that he visited, it’s still prominently mentioned)
- Authentic (since 1936) and affordable: €7-10
- Ideal for a quick lunch
In high season, book or come early – these pizzerias are popular!
Looking for Something Other Than Pizza in Naples?
I had a delicious pasta at Osteria Paladino, right next to Spaccanapoli. But I also ate a local pasta with potato and cheese at Mammamì Neapolitan Food. I was staying on Via Foria in a flat then, and this was just around the corner. I thought it was a really nice little restaurant, and the food was unique. The dish I had was originally for the poor.
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
Unique Naples Attractions Around the City
Solfatara – Walk on Volcanic Grounds
One of my most extraordinary 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 a “dormant” volcano
- You can see steam rising 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 the train to Ercolano (Circumvesuviana line)
- Bus to starting point (€10 return, runs every hour)
- Walk to crater: 30 minutes, fairly challenging
- View: unforgettable!
Best time: Early morning (cooler) or late afternoon (better light)
⚠️ Important: Book tickets online in advance, especially in high season!
💡 Book your Vesuvius access + bus transfer here
Pompeii Day Trip
I had already visited Pompeii before, but it’s 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: Highly recommended for the stories behind the ruins!
⏰ Plan at least 4 hours for your visit
💡 Book your skip-the-line Pompeii tour here and avoid a long queue!
Royal Palace of Caserta – The Versailles of Italy
One of my favourite days during the trip! This former royal palace with its enormous gardens is breathtaking. I had a wonderful time cycling around.
My experience:
- Bike rental in the garden: €10 for 3 hours (absolutely worth it!)
- The garden is so large you can cycle for hours
- Various beautiful fountains
- Waterfall at the end, visible from the palace, but a 2 km cycle!
UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, and rightly so! In the garden – you could really call it a whole park – there are various fountains.
The gardens and palace were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997.
I went here by public transport, but if you want to explore the area at your leisure, then a hire car is of course the way to go.servedly!
Day Trip to Rome from Naples
Yes, this is really possible! When I discovered that Rome was only an hour away by high-speed train, I couldn’t resist.
I took the high-speed train which goes no less than 300 km/h and took just over an hour. So if you’ve never been to Rome but are spending a few days in Naples, this is your chance!
Cost: From €20 single journey (book ahead = cheaper!)
Want to explore more of Italy?
Check out this 10 day roadtrip Italy itinerary
Practical Tips for Your Naples Trip
Where to Stay in Naples?
On an earlier visit, I stayed in Bagnoli (coastal area), which is quieter but requires taking the train every day. This time I chose Otis Rooms on Via Pavia, right by Central Station (5 minutes’ walk). The old historic centre is only 1 km away.
My recommendation for 2025:
- Centro Storico: For atmosphere and proximity to attractions
- Chiaia: Chic neighbourhood, slightly more expensive but safe
- Pozzuoli: Ancient port city on the Phlegraean Fields
💡 Find the best hotels in Naples here
Have you also been to Naples and is there something missing from this list of Naples attractions?
Also read:
- Cycling outside of Rome – Exploring Bracciano and Martignano lake
- Hiking in Austria – Alpe Adria Trail
- Discover Ibiza and Formentera – Spain
- Citytrip Trondheim – Norway