Charming Naples has a unique and contradictory nature: once a dangerous Italian city, it is one of the cradles of the renaissance. And despite the world experience of pandemic, this romantic city will always attract droves of tourists.
Unlike other famous Italian destinations, Naples is an unconventional place to plan your Italy trips. The old-world charm of cobbled alleys, aromatic markets, and welcoming Neapolitans, besides some of the world-famous Naples tourist attractions, are the things that turn such exploration into a lifetime adventure.
Unlike other famous Italian destinations, Naples is an unconventional place to plan your Italy trips. The old-world charm of cobbled alleys, aromatic markets, and welcoming Neapolitans, besides some of the world-famous Naples tourist attractions, are the things that turn such exploration into a lifetime adventure.
Mount Vesuvius
The famous Mount Vesuvius rises above Naples’s surroundings. This legendary volcano erupted in 79 AD and destroyed and buried the equally famous city of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Being the only volcano to erupt in 100 years on European territory, it is considered extremely dangerous. Sometimes it is frightening to think how people who live in its area cope with the constant danger. But don’t worry! The eruption isn’t part of your Naples exploration. If you are brave enough, take a bus tour from Naples to visit and conquer this remarkable natural phenomenon. The climbing will take around half an hour, during which you’ll be able to admire the fantastic views from the top. |
Amid The Ruins of Pompeii
Pompeii was an ancient city that was treacherously destroyed by the iconic Mount Vesuvius. Experiencing its life peak, the settlement was highly advanced and extensive, but, unfortunately, ceased to exist in 79 AD.
But that wasn’t the end. In a manner of speaking, Pompeii was literally reborn from and thanks to the ashes layer, preserving the city’s remains in a fantastic condition. For history enthusiasts, there’s no better chance to travel back in time. When in Naples, you can visit Pompeii to walk through the ruins of the Amphitheatre, the case del Fauno, the Temple of Apollo, and the Temple of Jupiter. |
National Archeological Museum
Like almost everything in this place, the National Archeological Museum also has its history. A magnificent 1750’s ornate building houses the museum which once was used as a military and cavalry barracks and later turned into a museum.
You can find the museum to the north of the Harbor but, conveniently, you can access it from a Metro station next to the building. The most significant collection of Roman and Greek artifacts is waiting for you inside. Marble statues that bring to life scenes from ancient mythology, astonishing mosaics from Pompeii ruins, and a vast collection of mummified remains and other artifacts from ancient Egypt as well. It is your chance to touch history. This treasure-trove has had a hand on the western art canon as we know it today. |
Fontanelle Cemetery
For those who are fond of creepy stories and would like to hit a nerve, beneath the hustle and bustle of Naples’s streets there is an old cave, in the 17th century a burial place of plague’s victims. Though it may seem a very uncomfortable place at first, it also gives a very spiritual feel thanks to the local tradition of caring for ancient remains.
Actually, such tradition turned into the cult of devotion to the skulls of the Fontanelle cemetery and lasted till the mid-20th century. It is against this background that in 1969, Cardinal Ursi of Naples decided that such devotion was more of a sick fetishism and the cemetery was soon closed by his order. Today, the place has been restored as a historical site and may be visited. |
Naples's Metro
Naples has not only creepy things in its walls but also fascinating installations beneath the streets. The city’s major metro line is a true masterpiece. Hosting more than 180 art installations, Naples’s metro is one of the most beautiful ones in the world. You can find the works of many pioneering international artists such as Sol LeWitt, Joseph Kosuth, and Michelangelo Pistoletto.
The iridescent silver-blue walls and ceiling at Toledo metro station is your portal into a majestic sea - the ordinary stroll through the station turns into a real journey into a fantastic realm. |
Castel Dell’Ovo
The magnificent Castel dell’Ovo is the first thing you see as you enter the port of Naples. The breathtaking fortress has been standing vigilantly on a little island near the city since the early 6th century BC. As of today, Castel dell’Ovo is the oldest remaining fortification in Naples.
The castle is accessible by a footpath and road that connects the mainland and the island. The place is open to the public so you can explore this fantastic landmark, find out about the history of the castle, take pleasure in overviewing the Mediterranean Sea or taste some seafood in local restaurants surrounding the island’s marina. |
Cathedral of Duomo
The 13th-century Cathedral of Duomo is another must-see sight for history enthusiasts - it is rightfully considered the main church in Naples and in entire southern Italy.
The Cathedral of Duomo represents a unique mix of architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. This happened not by itself but because of numerous restorations across ages. The front facade is adorned by a large central tower, ornate sculptures, and stone work. While the interior is framed by huge columns and amazing decorations. The cathedral is located on the Via Duomo and can be easily reached via the Museo metro stop. Besides, you can use a bus as well, some of them pass by the front façade. |
Piazza de Plebiscito
The most famous square in Naples, the Piazza del Plebiscito is home to the other Naples tourist sights as the Royal Palace and the Basilica Royal. You definitely should put the square into your "things to do in Naples" list.
As expected, the important square is filled with important buildings such as Palazzo Salerno and the Prefecture Palace. All this ensemble is completed by statues, one of which is dedicated to Charles III of Spain. The whole square is beautifully framed by semi-circular colonnades of the Basilica Royal. |
Santa Lucia District
It is safe to bet that hearing the words “Santa Lucia” brings in memory the famous song, right? Turn it on while exploring the Santa Lucia district in Naples to truly experience the city from a local perspective. This place is among the best ones to dive into the country's colorful culture.
The district is easy to find, it is located westward of the Piazza del Plebiscito. Narrow cobbled streets and countless rows of craft shops, cafes, restaurants, and pizzerias are always a good bait to swallow. |
Naples Harbor
Having been a busy port for ages, Naples is the city’s main source of the economy thanks to sea trade. There is a unique atmosphere of activity in multiple ports and docks at any time of the day.
Naples Harbour is so long that you can spend hours strolling through it right from the Castel Nuovo to the Piazza San Giovanni Battista watching real harbor life. If you manage to walk through it, you can continue walking west and eventually you’ll find the Porto di Mergellina - here lies your reward after such a long walk, a portion of mouth-watering food in numerous trendy restaurants and cafes. Try to save some energy and come here to experience some local life and enjoy the views of different Yachts docking at the harbor. |
Delightful Naples has great tourist experiences for you to offer. Its history, architecture, culture, and other travel pleasingness you’ll remember for the rest of your life. If you want to get a taste of true Italy, pack your bags and head to Naples in private tours to Italy, which is the best way to experience such journeys.