Naples Travel guide
By Giuseppe Baldassarri Italian travel blogger
Naples, or Napoli in Italian, is a vibrant and historic city located in southern Italy. Known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture, Naples offers a wide range of attractions and activities to explore. Here's a suggested itinerary for a visit to Naples:
Day 1: Arrival and City Center Exploration
- Arrive in Naples and check into your accommodation.
- Start your exploration in the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the iconic Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples, and admire the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) and the San Carlo Theater.
- Explore the narrow streets of the Spaccanapoli district, which divides the city center, and soak in the authentic atmosphere of Naples.
- Indulge in Naples' famous street food, such as pizza margherita, sfogliatelle (a flaky pastry filled with sweet cream), and frittatine (fried pasta croquettes). You can find these delicacies in local pizzerias and street food stalls throughout the city.
Day 2: Archaeological Sites and Museums
- Visit the archaeological site of Pompeii, a short distance from Naples. Explore the remarkably preserved ancient Roman city, which was buried under volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
- In the afternoon, visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other ancient sites, including impressive sculptures and mosaics.
- Enjoy a traditional Neapolitan dinner at a local trattoria, trying dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), eggplant parmigiana, or mozzarella di bufala. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local Campanian wine.
Day 3: Capri Island
- Take a day trip to the beautiful island of Capri. Catch a ferry from Naples to Capri and explore its stunning natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere.
- Visit the famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), a sea cave known for its mesmerizing blue waters. You can take a boat tour inside the cave to experience its enchanting beauty.
- Explore the town of Capri, stroll through the charming streets, and visit the Gardens of Augustus for panoramic views of the island and the Faraglioni rock formations.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties like Caprese salad (made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil).
Day 4: Historic Naples
- Discover the underground city of Naples by visiting the Napoli Sotterranea, a network of tunnels, catacombs, and ancient aqueducts beneath the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the city's history and see fascinating archaeological remains.
- Visit the Duomo di San Gennaro, the city's main cathedral, and witness the miracle of the liquefaction of the blood of Saint Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples, if you're lucky to be there on the day of the ceremony.
- Explore the San Gregorio Armeno street, famous for its workshops where artisans create traditional Neapolitan nativity scenes (presepi). You can also find shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
- Enjoy a dinner at a traditional Neapolitan trattoria, trying local dishes like spaghetti alla puttanesca (spaghetti with tomato, olives, capers, and anchovies) or bistecca alla pizzaiola (steak with a tomato and oregano sauce).
Day 5: Vesuvius and Wine Tasting
- Take a guided tour to Mount Vesuvius, the famous volcano that overlooks Naples. Hike to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.
- After the hike, visit a winery in the nearby region of Avellino, known for its production of excellent wines, including the renowned Taurasi DOCG. Enjoy a wine tasting session and learn about the winemaking process.
- Return to Naples and have dinner at a traditional pizzeria, trying different variations of Neapolitan pizza, which is characterized by its thin crust and fresh local ingredients.
Day 6: Castles and Seafront Promenade
- Explore the Castel dell'Ovo, an ancient castle located on the islet of Megaride. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and stroll along the seafront promenade.
- Visit the Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), a medieval castle that houses the Civic Museum. Admire the impressive architecture and explore the museum's collection of art and historical artifacts.
- Relax in the Villa Comunale, a beautiful park in Naples with lush gardens and stunning views of the sea. Take a leisurely walk or have a picnic in the park.
- For dinner, try some seafood specialties at a local seafood restaurant, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or frittura di paranza (mixed fried fish).
Day 7: Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast
- Take a day trip to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, known for its picturesque cliffside towns and stunning coastal views.
- Visit the town of Positano, famous for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and beautiful beaches. Take a walk along the beach promenade and explore the town's charming shops and boutiques.
- Continue to the town of Amalfi and visit the magnificent Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Amalfi). Explore the town's historic center and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring dishes like spaghetti alle vongole or scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh pasta with seafood).
- On your way back to Naples, make a stop in the town of Ravello. Visit the stunning Villa Rufolo and its gardens, which inspired many artists and musicians throughout history.
- Return to Naples and spend your last evening enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city. Visit a local gelateria and indulge in some authentic Italian gelato flavors.
Please note that this itinerary provides a general overview of the attractions and activities available in Naples and its surroundings. You can customize it based on your preferences and the specific places you wish to visit. Naples offers a blend of history, art, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, ensuring a memorable experience.
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Naples: where to stay?
Naples, Italy, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Your choice of where to stay in Naples can depend on factors such as your budget, the purpose of your visit, and your personal preferences. Here are some popular neighborhoods and types of accommodations to consider:
1. **Historic Center (Centro Storico)**:
- The historic center is the heart of Naples and offers a vibrant and authentic experience. You'll be close to many of the city's historical and cultural attractions, including Spaccanapoli, Naples Cathedral, and the National Archaeological Museum.
- Options include boutique hotels, guesthouses, and budget hostels.
2. **Chiaia and Posillipo**:
- These are upscale, residential neighborhoods with a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling historic center.
- You'll find luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and apartments with beautiful views of the Gulf of Naples.
3. **Vomero**:
- Vomero is another residential area known for its shopping, restaurants, and city views.
- There's a mix of mid-range and luxury hotels, as well as vacation rentals.
4. **Port Area (Molo Beverello)**:
- If you plan to take day trips to the islands in the Bay of Naples (like Capri or Ischia), staying near the port area is convenient.
- You'll find a range of hotels and some budget-friendly options.
5. **Arenella**:
- This is a quieter and more local neighborhood. It's a bit further from the city center, but it offers a different perspective of Naples.
- Accommodation options include guesthouses and some budget hotels.
6. **Budget Accommodation**:
- If you're on a tight budget, look for hostels or budget hotels around the historic center and train station.
7. **Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)**:
- Naples has many charming B&Bs that offer a personalized experience and local insights.
8. **Airbnb and Vacation Rentals**:
- Renting an apartment or house through Airbnb or other vacation rental platforms can be a great option for more space and flexibility.
When choosing your accommodation, consider factors like proximity to public transportation, safety, and the kind of experience you want to have. It's a good idea to read reviews and check recent feedback from other travelers to get a sense of the quality and service of a particular property. Additionally, Naples has a lively street life and a vibrant atmosphere, but some areas can be noisy, so you might want to consider this when selecting your lodging.
Booking.comHow to get to Naples, and view the map in real-time.
To get to Naples and view real-time maps, you can follow these steps:
**Getting to Naples**:
1. **By Air**:
- The most common way to get to Naples from abroad is by flying into Naples International Airport (NAP), also known as Capodichino Airport. It's well-connected to major European cities and other parts of Italy.
- You can search for flights to Naples using various travel websites or directly through the official website of Naples International Airport.
2. **By Train**:
- If you're already in Italy or Europe, you can take a train to Naples. The city is well-connected to other major Italian cities via the Italian train network.
- Check train schedules and book tickets through the official website of Trenitalia or Italo.
3. **By Car**:
- If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the Autostrada (highway) to Naples. Just be aware that driving in Naples can be challenging due to the city's traffic and limited parking.
4. **By Bus**:
- Some international and national bus companies offer routes to Naples. Check companies like FlixBus or Eurolines for options.
**Viewing Real-Time Maps**:
To view real-time maps while in Naples, you have several options:
1. **Google Maps**:
- Download the Google Maps app on your smartphone if you haven't already.
- Open the app, enter your destination, and choose your preferred mode of transportation (driving, walking, or public transit).
- Google Maps provides real-time directions, traffic information, and estimated travel times.
2. **Apple Maps**:
- If you're using an Apple device, you can use Apple Maps for real-time navigation and directions.
3. **Local Transportation Apps**:
- Naples has its own transportation apps for public buses, trams, and metros. You can download apps like "Napoli Official App" or "Moovit" to access real-time information about public transit in Naples.
4. **GPS Devices**:
- If you have a standalone GPS device in your rental car, you can use it for real-time navigation.
Remember to have a reliable internet connection on your smartphone if you plan to use online maps. If you're traveling from abroad, you may need to arrange for a local SIM card or an international data plan with your mobile carrier to avoid high roaming charges. Additionally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local transportation system and the layout of Naples before you arrive to make navigation easier.