Naples

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Naples

Meet Naples, the city where history and culture are intertwined with flavours and exciting activities. Explore the cemetery of skulls within the Fontanelle cemetery and the lost city of Pompeii, or visit the famous Vesuvius volcano and the island of Capri. Discover the lost tunnels of Naples and discover the other side of Naples, then end the day visiting the bars, restaurants and vivid nightlife in the evening. Castles, museums and churches add a finishing touch to the picturesque old-world feel.

The City

The historic city of Naples was founded about 3,000 years ago as Partenope by Greek merchants. Later, the settlement took the name of Palepolis, the old city, and in 475 BC it became Neapolis, the new city. Under various phases of foreign rule, the city developed continuously, until it became the capital of the most important of the pre-unification states, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. The rulers of that Kingdom, the Bourbons, constructed a magnificent palace in nearby Caserta and filled the city with historic structures of all kinds.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

The historic centre of Naples, with its splendid palaces and its popular and lively working-class districts, is now on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Naples also boasts an underground city, as well as its famous panoramic views. Moreover, this hospitable city is marked by contrasts and popular traditions, such as the annual miracle whereby San Gennaro’s ‘blood’ becomes liquid in front of the eyes of his followers. Naples is famous throughout the world primarly because of pizza (which, you'll discover, only constitutes a small part of the rich local cuisine) and popular music, with famous songs such as 'O Sole Mio'.

Museum of Capodimonte

The castle of Capodimonte boasts a wonderful view on the Bay of Naples. Built in the 18th century by Bourbon kings, it has been the royals' summer residence for a long time; today it hosts a museum which exhibits various collections, including masterpieces by Tiziano, Botticelli, Perugino and Raffaello.

Castel Nuovo

Also known as 'Maschio Angioino', this medieval castle dating back to 1279 was an important cultural centre, visited by important artists and writers such as Giotto, Petrarca and Boccaccio. Today it hosts various cultural events, and is home of the Municipal Museum of Naples.

Ovo Castle

Literally named 'Egg Castle', Castel dell'Ovo is a 12th-century fortress that dominates the Naples seafront. The name comes from the legendary Roman poet Virgil, who supposedly strengthened the castle walls with a magical egg.

Basilica of Saint Clare

Not far from Church of Gesù Nuovo, the Basilica of Saint Clare is the biggest gothic basilica in the city. Built in provençal style in the 14th century, it has plenty to see for art history lovers, such as the remains of some of Giotto's frescoes. Here you can also find an archaeological site, a…

Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore

San Lorenzo Maggiore is an extraordinary building complex which mixes gothic and baroque architecture, and dates back to the end of the 13th century. Every Christmas, a life-size nativity scene is set up inside the church. A museum occupies three floors above the courtyard, and exhibits historic items from the monastery as well as archaelogical…

Church Of San Gregorio Armeno

San Gregorio Armeno is located in the centre of Naples and is a wonderful example of Neapolitan Baroque art. Here you can find beautiful frescoes, gilded ceilings and cloisters full of orange trees. The church also hosts the relics of St Patricia, thus locals often call it 'Chiesa di Santa Patrizia'.

Church Of Gesù Nuovo

When in Naples, don't miss the opulent interior of this church, its baroque marble statues, and its altars inlaid with semi-precious stones such as agate, amethysts and lapis lazuli. The building is located at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, just outside the historic centre.

National Archeological Museum

This is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world: it contains bronzes, sculptures and many other objects from the Bourbon collection, and from the historical sites of Pompeii and Ercolano.

The Royal Palace

This was once the residence of the Spanish Viceroys. The Royal Gardens are full of tree-lined avenues with rare plants, statues and secret gardens. On the palace grounds you can find the San Carlo Theater, the National Library of Naples and a regional tourist board.

Museo Cappella Sansevero

The enigmatic Sansevero Chapel is an important part of the Italian artistic heritage and is located in the historic part of Naples. Here you can see the famous Rococo sculpture of Veiled Christ made by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753, as well as a feast of Baroque architecture and a mysterious temple of initiation.

Fontanelle Cemetery

Cimitero Delle Fontanelle, also known as the Valley of Death, offers a somewhat unique - and possibly morbid - experience. For sure it is unlike any other church or cemetery in the world, and, although it might be a bit difficult to find at first, it should not be missed while in Naples.

San Carlo Theatre

This neoclassical theatre can look like it's frozen in time: the majestic golden décor and the red suede curtains will probably throw you back to the 18th century, when it was built for Charles III, duke of Bourbon. After several restorations, it is still open today, and hosts great shows such as Swan Lake.

San Gregorio Armeno Street

This narrow street is all about the nativity scene and teems with tourists and locals. When wandering down Via San Gregorio Armeno, you will be amazed by the plethora of nativity scene objects lined up along the street. The place is especially popular during Christmas time, when everyone is looking for Christmas cribs and figurines.

Pompeii

When in Naples, you should seize the opportunity to go to Pompeii. The city is located south of Naples and is known for having been destroyed and buried by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and offers many interesting (and slightly…

Pausilypon Archaeological Park

This majestic archaeological site is worth checking out because of its historical value, and for the majestic view over the Naples bay it offers. The villa, complete with a theatre and thermal baths, was built by Roman knight Publio Vedio Pollione, and its name means "stress relief". The place is also known for its cave,…

Church of Saint Giovanni a Carbonara

This church and monastery complex is one of the highest rated in Naples, and you shouldn't miss it if you're interested in art and history. Founded by Augustinian monks, it was renovated many times through the history, and hosts interesting examples of different art styles, such as its scenographic 17th-century façade, and fascinating sculptures and…

See Amalfi Coast

Not far from Naples, the beautiful town of Amalfi is the perfect spot for a one-day excursion: it boasts a stunning seaside and a surprisingly rich history (it used to hold a huge maritime power in the Middle Ages), which has left interesting sights such as the St Andrew Cathedral, with its scenic staircase. To…

Bourbon Tunnel

If visiting an underground secret passage which also served as a war refuge sounds thrilling to you, don't miss this fascinating museum. More than 500 meters long and 150 years old, Bourbon Tunnel has been recently restored to the detail and offers experiences for all tastes, from historical tours to speleological excursions.

Mount Vesuvius

The only active volcano in Continental Europe, Mount Vesuvius is a popular destination for excursions, and offers a stunning panorama over the Naples bay, as well as a thrilling opportunity to look inside its crater. Infamous because it destroyed Pompeii 2 000 years ago, Vesuvius is now carefully controlled by geologists. An interesting choice can…

Capri

With its stunning rock cliffs over a deep blue sea and its polished, upper-class gardens and villas, this beautiful island in front of the Sorrento bay has much to offer. Don't miss the Grotta Azzurra sea cave, in which a play of lights makes the water sparkle with an ethereal blue. Admire the elegant fin-de-siècle…

Dining

Neapolitans believe their cuisine to be among the finest in the world. The best way to decide if you agree is tasting some local speciality: different pasta recipes (with the 'pummarola' tomato sauce, or 'alla puttanesca' with olives and capers), typical pastries like babà or sfogliatella, and of course an authentic pizza, which made its appearance in Naples over 500 years ago. Neapolitan cuisine proudly uses modest ingredients such as oil, pecorino cheese, and aromatic herbs to convey its typical Mediterranean taste.

Ristorante Mimì Alla Ferrovia

Since its opening in 1943, this bustling restaurant has been an institution in Naples: frequented by famous writer and actor Eduardo de Filippo, it has also hosted well-known guests like Maradona and Michael Schumacher. It offers typical Neapolitan dishes such as stuffed grilled pepper and pasta from daily markets, and has a remarkable choice of…

Ristorante Amici Miei

Pizzeria Pellone

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele

Da Michele's historical pizzeria is always packed with people, for a reason: it takes pride in preserving its own traditional pizza recipe, passed down from generation to generation since 1870. You might find some queue, but it's worth it to taste Michele's culinary tradition.

Pizzeria Starita

This busy pizza place has a long, successful history, and its wide menu combines pizza classics with more creative flavors, like radish or pistachio and sausage, as well as some fried specialities.

Trattoria da Nennella

Located in the Spanish Quarter in Naples, Trattoria da Nennella is appreciated for the quality of its affordable traditional dishes, and for the teeming, loud Neapolitan atmosphere you can find inside - the waiters of this restaurant will give you a warm welcome, and even whistle some songs if they feel like it.

Cantina La Barbera

If you feel like taking a break from traditional cuisine, this wine bar and grill house on the Vomero hill will offer you a sophisticated alternative, with its selection of international wines and barbecue meat dishes. Located inside an 18th-century palace, it has a cosy atmosphere, and also specializes in homebrew beer and choice cold…

Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante

Set in a stunning position in front of the Posillipo bay, with a seafront view over historical palaces, Capri and Mount Vesuvius, this exclusive restaurant has an impressive wine selection and an elegant, thoughtful menu proposal - the lasagnetta is a must try. It may not be cheap, but it's certainly a fantastic choice for…

La Locanda dei Borboni

For a savoury typical dinner at an affordable price, head to this cosy restaurant located in a characteristic Neapolitan alley, a 'vico': the menu is simple but successful, and the warm-hearted staff will be happy to give you a full explanation about every dish. Don't miss the chef's own recipe, Spaghetti alla Don Raffaé, inspired…

Cibi Cotti Nonna Anna

An actual life hack for tasting tons of typical food in Naples while on a budget is having your lunch break at Nonna Anna's. This old-fashioned canteen, hidden inside a covered city market, doesn't provide table service, but it is a favourite among locals, and offers delicious showcooked specialities at an incredible value for money.

Cru...do rè

Sophisticated raw fish specialities, paired with an impressive wine caveau and elegant presentation, are the centre of Cru...do rè's modern take on seafood dining. Come for a different, stylish tasting experience - not cheap, but worth its price.

Hachi Ristorante Giapponese

Restaurant Hachi is a place specialising in Japanese cuisine, primarily sushi. From spring rolls to a wide assortment of different kinds of sushi with fish, vegetables and more, from the menu or the buffet, this place offers great value for a fair price with great service.

Januarius

Authentic Italian cuisine is what you can get in this beautiful setting. Pasta with seafood or tomato sauce, Italian antipasti, wine or cheese and sweet Italian desserts are just a few things to mention from the broad menu of Januarius.

Cafes

Naples bristles with great coffee, or rather 'caffè', which means 'espresso' there. The most popular coffee types in Naples are caffè ristretto, caffè lungo and caffè macchiato. Neapolitans often order a shot with their coffee, for example sambuca or whiskey.

Moccia

This delicious Neapolitan pastry shop is a must try. When in the Posillipo area, don't ask where the shop is - just follow the aroma. Here you can try delicious sfogliatelle, brioches, little pizzas and cakes with cream on the stunning seafront terrace.

Pintauro

Pintauro's historic bakery is truly proud of its authentic sfogliatella, so take the opportunity to try one here - this Neapolitan speciality is a shell-shaped pastry and can have different fillings, such as almond paste, orange-flavoured ricotta or candied lemon peel.

Gran Caffè Cimmino

Gran Caffè Cimmino is both a cafe and a bakery, which is a great combo if you're looking for an authentic Italian breakfast experience, complete with cappuccino and typical pastries. They also serve hot chocolate, ice cream, dessert and cocktails.

Friggitoria Vomero

Fried street food is an unmissable tradition in Naples, and Friggitoria Vomero is definitely an expert in the field. Located in the historical part of Naples, it has been serving on-the-go snacks since 1938 and is still going strong. Try different specialities, and make sure you don't miss mozzarella sandwiches and polenta.

Sfogliatelle Attanasio

Considered by many to offer the best sfogliatella pastries in Naples, as well as a great spot for lunch, Sfogliatelle Attanasio is very well known, and therefore often packed with people. It's definitely worth the wait: tasting freshly backed pastries, and witnessing the lively local crowd, are two exquisitely Neapolitan experiences you should never miss.

Chiosco Aurelio

Having served fresh lemon and orange juice for more than 50 years, Aurelio is a proper old-fashioned lemonade shop and the perfect place to meet up near the seaside. Its typical orange slushie is especially recommended.

Bar Mexico

Appreciated by both locals and tourists for its premium quality coffee blends, Bar Mexico has many branches around town, one of which close to the central station: let their friendly service and authentic espresso welcome you into the city. In summer try, for a change, their well-reviewed 'Caffè del nonno' iced coffee.

Bar Forturella

Especially known for its homemade desserts, this cafe and pastry shop also offers ice creams and nice looking cocktails, and it's worthy a try when in the Posillipo seaside area.

Gran Caffè Gambrinus

Gran Caffè Gambrinus is one of the most famous cafes in Naples. Many famous artists and thinkers sat in its Belle Époque-inspired halls, the likes of Gabriele d'Annunzio, Oscar Wilde, Jean-Paul Sartre and Ernest Hemingway. Their pastries include 'sfogliatella', also known as lobster tail, babas and cassata cake, to be coupled with their assortment of…

Birdy's Bakery

Birdy's Bakery does not only offer a range of delicacies like cake, ice-cream, pancakes or muffins to enjoy with a coffee, but also savoury meals like burgers, sandwiches, bagels or fries for lunch or dinner, all in a cosy cafe ambience.

Chalet Ciro

Perfectly located by the oceanside and a yacht harbour, Chalet Ciro sells sweet pastries, ice-cream, smoothies, cakes and more. Chalet Ciro has hosted actors and actresses as well as football stars playing for the local club.

Bars & Nightlife

Neapolitan nightlife is vibrant and packed with people. It starts teeming around 8pm in the Chiaia area - coming for a drink, you might have the impression that the whole neighbourhood have descended into the tiny space around via Belledonne a Chiaia for an aperitivo. Another crowded area is Piazza Bellini, especially in summer and spring time.

Enoteca Belledonne

This tiny wine bar is an institution among the inhabitants of the upclass Chiaia area. Here you can find an extensive wine list and a choice from two/three different dishes every night - come for a relaxed chat in a friendly atmosphere.

Arenile di Bagnoli

In summer this disco club boasts a beautiful open-air dance floor on the beach, complete with a gazebo, outdoor bars, beds, sofas and a large lawn. The winter time is no less fun with an indoor area hosting concerts and popular DJ’s.

Frank Malone Pub

This Anglo-Saxon pub provides an inviting venue with British spirit and plenty of hearty food and beer. It is located in the friendly San Martino area and will welcome you with joy and hospitality.

Miami Bar Room

Miami Bar Rooms is one of the most popular clubs in Naples and has carefully decorated interiors, of course inspired by Florida's night clubs. Being located in the elite residential area Vomero, it's the perfect place for a classy night out.

Cammarota Spritz

Cammarota Spritz offers very good value for money, and is a lively favourite among youths. The bar is also located next to a pizzeria, so fear not: there is always a place to go when food is needed.

Archeobar

For a glass of wine and teeming happy hours in a laid back intellectual ambiance, head to this cafe-bar near the University. The walls are covered in books you can rent, and live music events are often staged.

Alter Ego Lounge Bar

Boasting scenic lights and ornate cocktails, this lounge bar can be the right place for a fancy evening in the centre of Naples, with its ideal location near Piazza Bellini.

Club Nabilah

Perfect for a beach party night, Club Nabilah is 20 minutes away from the city centre, but it makes up for that with its huge pool, beautiful decor and suggestive location on the seaside. It also offers happy hours, and has international DJs in console.

Baik Falcone

Baik is located on a hill and has an amazing view on the seaside, which gets even better at night, with a glass of wine and good company. Sushi lovers, listen up: along with good drinks and happy hours, you can also order some Japanese cuisine.

L'Antiquario

This subtle, not to noisy location is great for a couple of drinks and stimulating conversation. The bartenders prepare a variety of cocktails with spirits of your choice, and if you are in need of a little snack, Italian cheese, ham, caviar and other finger foods can be served alongside your drinks.

Shopping

If you're looking for fashionable clothes, accessories or jewellery, head to via Calabritto, via Filangieri, via Chiaia and via Toledo, where you'll find plenty of fashion brands such as Bulgari, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. In the same area, two boutiques boast impressive local collections. One of them is called Ernesto Esposito (via Santa Caterina a Chiaia 20), and showcases the sexed-up heels created by its namesake designer, a Neapolitan who also works for Fendi, Sonia Rykiel and Via Spiga. The other one, Marinella (Riviera di Chiaia 287), is a tiny shop with a huge reputation for its classic men's accessories and, especially, silk ties. A huge flea market with good bargains is found close to the Poggioreale jail and runs from Thursday through Monday. For typical handmade products, the best place to go is the Quartieri Spagnoli. This area still has the highest number of old craftsmen’s shops. The sophisticated, expensive Capodimonte porcelain, cameos and gouaches are particularly famous. Naples is also tied to the traditions of leather goods as well as gold and silver objects. If you are interested in buying the famous nativity scene figurines made in terracotta you should visit via San Gregorio Armeno: here you can find all types of figurines, all made by hand.