20 best places to visit in Naples, Italy

Whether you’re sampling authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pignasecca Market or touring the glistening Amalfi Coast, Naples is one of Italy’s most exciting cities and a gateway to unbelievable experiences. It’s a little rough around the edges, but that's part of its undeniable charm. Naples is a city with authenticity, natural beauty, and diverse tourist attractions. Here are our top 20 places to visit in Naples, Italy.

Best places to visit in Naples for history

1. Pompeii

Just 25 km (15.5 miles) southeast of Naples, Pompeii offers an unparalleled glimpse into ancient Roman life. This remarkably preserved city, frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD, is easily accessible by train (30 minutes) or organized tour from Naples. Explore ancient streets, step into Roman homes, and see vivid frescoes that have retained their color for two millennia.

Highlights:

Explore with an archaeologist-led tour for in-depth insights into Roman daily life.

Address and opening hours:

Pompeii, 80045 Naples. Open Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.

2. Herculaneum

Pompeii was not the only city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius's fateful eruption. Herculaneum, once a flourishing port, also fell victim to the angry volcano. Today, its beautifully preserved temples, bathhouses, villas, and forums are fascinating attractions to visit.

Highlights:

Take a tour with an archaeologist to find out the stories behind the ruins, such as the tragedy of the 300 residents who died in their attempt to escape by sea.

Address and opening hours:

Corso Resina 187, 80056 Ercolano. Open Monday-Sunday, 8:30 AM-6:00 PM.

3. San Gaudioso Catacombs

Delve into Naples' eerie underworld at the San Gaudioso Catacombs, less crowded than others. These 5th-century burial chambers, hidden beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, offer a fascinating glimpse into early Christian burial practices.

Highlights:

A tour of the San Gaudioso catacombs is not for the faint of heart. Many of the ancient tombs are decorated with skulls, and your guide will explain the meaning behind the sinister rituals.

Address and opening hours:

Via Sanità 123, 80136 Naples. Open Thursday-Tuesday, 9:30 AM-5:00 PM. Closed Wednesdays.

4. The Flavion Amphitheater in Pozzuoli

Pozzuoli is an ideal place to visit for history lovers due to its large number of Roman ruins. The enormous Flavian Amphitheater in Pozzuoli is the third-largest amphitheater in Italy, after the Colosseum and the Capuan Amphitheater. The Temple of Serapis is also packed with interesting ancient sites. This would make a great day trip and is around 35 minutes from Naples.

Highlights:

A walking tour is a great way to explore this ancient settlement. Don't miss the great views, sweeping across the coast and the sea, from the Macellum of Pozzuoli.

Address and opening hours:

Corso Nicola Terracciano 75, 80078 Pozzuoli. Open Wednesday-Monday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

5. The Bourbon Tunnel

The Bourbon Tunnel is a fascinating place to visit. It was commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Bourbon in 1853 to give the royal family an underground escape route from the Royal Palace to military barracks. It later played a crucial role during World War II and was used as a bomb shelter.

Highlights:

The best way to see the tunnel is with an expert, so we recommend booking a guided tour. Watch out for the ruined fascist-era cars and motorcycles.

Address and opening hours:

Vico del Grottone 4, 80132 Naples. Open Friday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Closed Monday-Thursday.

Best places to visit in Naples for art

6. Visit the Veiled Christ at the Sansevero Chapel

Giuseppe Sanmartino's Veiled Christ, the centerpiece of the Sansevero Chapel, is renowned as one of the greatest sculptures in art history. When this incredibly detailed masterpiece was first revealed in 1753, many people thought it was the work of an alchemist or magician.

Highlights:

Walk down the streets of Spaccanapoli in the old city of Naples and admire the beauty of its buildings and old churches.

Address and opening hours:

Via Francesco de Sanctis 19/21, 80134 Naples. Open Wednesday-Monday, 9:00 AM-6:30 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

7. The Naples National Archeological Museum

If you're interested in Ancient Roman art, there's only one place to go. The Naples Archaeological Museum houses the Farnese Collection, the world's finest collection of antiquities from Ancient Greece and Rome.

Highlights:

A private tour means you won't miss a thing. One of the most impressive highlights has to be the incredible mosaic of Alexander the Great, recovered from Pompeii.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza Museo 19, 80135 Naples. Open Wednesday-Monday, 9:00 AM-7:30 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

8. Spanish Quarter

The Spanish Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets full of street art, votive shrines, and dedications written on hearts hanging from characteristic alleys. Diego Maradona is seen as a demigod in Naples. He is celebrated across the city as the player who led the city’s beloved soccer team to great success.

Highlights:

Take a street art tour and explore the colorful Spanish Quarter. Learn more about Maradona’s troubled life and admire the dazzling murals, some of which are several stories high.

Address:

Via Emanuele de Deo 46, 80132 Naples.

9. National Gallery of Capodimonte

At the National Gallery of Capodimonte, you can see rare drawings by Michelangelo and Raphael and stunning paintings by artists like Caravaggio, Masolino, and Tiziano. Once the private collection of the kings of Naples, today, this gallery is one of the finest museums in the city.

Highlights:

Don’t miss the third floor, which houses 20th and 21st-century pieces, including Andy Warhol’s colorful depiction of Vesuvius erupting.

Address and opening hours:

Via Miano 2, 80131 Naples. Open Thursday-Tuesday, 8:30 AM-7:30 PM. Closed Wednesdays.

10. Pio Monte della Misericordia

Although Caravaggio was not born in Naples, he fell in love with the city and produced many of his finest works there. In return, the Neapolitans have embraced him as one of their favorite sons. His works at the Pio Monte della Misericordia are a tribute to his genius.

Highlights:

The proceeds from tickets to visit the museum complex go entirely to the charitable work that Pio Monte della Misericordia has been carrying out for over 400 years.

Address and opening hours:

Via dei Tribunali 253, 80139 Naples. Open Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM-2:30 PM.

Best places to visit in Naples for families

11. Amalfi Coast

The Bay of Naples has some of the best beaches in Europe, making it a great spot for families seeking fun in the sun. Get out of the city and explore charming historic towns like Positano and Amalfi. The water here is excellent for swimming from May to early October.

Highlights:

The towns are absolutely stunning but it can be very touristic in the height of summer so try to be strategic when you visit to avoid the crowds.

Address:

Amalfi 84011.

12. Città della Scienza

The Città della Scienza is Naples' very own science museum. This complex includes a stunning planetarium, the biggest and most advanced in Italy. There are also great shows about robots, so it's sure to be a hit with any science-loving kid.

Highlights:

As well as the planetarium, don’t miss the section of the Città della Scienza dedicated to the human body. You can even have a dance-off against an animated skeleton.

Address and opening hours:

Via Coroglio 57/104, 80124 Naples. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Closed Mondays.

13. Museodivino

The Museodivino is a remarkable museum where everything is on a microscopic scale. Exhibits include scenes from the Divine Comedy carved inside walnut shells, a Christmas nativity inside a hemp seed, and more. You’ll be given a magnifying glass to admire the artwork on display in this magical museum.

Highlights:

Grown-ups can admire the incredible statues, while kids will be enchanted by the teeny tiny artwork.

Address and opening hours:

Via San Giovanni Maggiore Pignatelli 1B, 80134 Naples. Open Monday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-4:00 PM.

14. Valle dell'Orso Adventure Park

Just 20 minutes from Naples's center, Valle dell'Orso is one of the best spots for a family day out. The adventure park includes treetop trails, zip lines, balance beams, and all kinds of fun. There's also a water park, complete with massive slides for thrill seekers and hydromassage areas for tired parents.

Highlights:

Kids will go wild for the fun attractions at Valle dell'Orso. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, you can just sit back and admire the incredible views of Mount Vesuvius in the background.

Address and opening hours:

Via Giovanni XXIII 54, Torre del Greco. Open Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

15. Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto in Capri is a fantastic experience for the whole family. Visitors find themselves enchanted by the glowing waters of this cave.

Highlights:

If you take a tour, you'll have an action-packed day, with local food, adventures in the town, and plenty of time to explore the beautiful Blue Grotto.

Address:

Anacapri, 80071 Naples.

Best places to visit in Naples for culture

16. Sorrento

Sorrento is a neighboring town that retains a lot of classic Italian charm, with narrow alleyways, colorful buildings, and dozens of artisan workshops to discover.

Highlights:

Sorrento is the home of limoncello, so be sure to enjoy a glass of the tangy citrus liqueur before you leave.

Address:

Sorrento, 80067 Naples.

17. Royal Palace of Caserta

Once home to the Kings of Naples, the Royal Palace of Caserta is one of the most stunning mansions in Italy. Its interiors are lavishly decorated, filled with beautiful art and incredible furniture. The gardens, with pristinely manicured lawns and elegant fountains, are also ideal for a stroll.

Highlights:

Don't miss the royal bedroom, where you can see where the kings used to sleep.

Address and opening hours:

Piazza Carlo di Borbone, 81100 Caserta. Open Wednesday-Monday, 8:30 AM-7:30 PM. Closed Tuesdays.

18. Walk the Holy Mile

Walk the Holy Mile, the sacred route that leads from the tomb of St Gennaro to his Treasure. This is a fascinating pilgrimage through Rione Sanità, which still contains many religious symbols despite now being one of Naples’ most multicultural districts.

Highlights:

Despite the short distance, the Holy Mile offers plenty to see, so allow yourself a few hours to enjoy it.

Address and opening hours:

Via Capodimonte 13, 80136 Naples. Opening times of the churches along the way vary.

19. Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius hasn’t erupted since 1944, and visitors today can get up close and personal with this incredible volcano. Go to the ridge and look inside the crater, gazing with wonder at the monster that destroyed Pompeii.

Highlights:

Strike out on a guided hike to learn more about Vesuvius' explosive history and for the chance to admire the views of the Bay of Naples.

Address:

Vesuvius, 80044 Ottaviano, Naples.

20. Pignasecca Market

Pizza was invented right here in Naples, and it would be a crime to leave the city without tasting a slice, so head to the Pignasecca Market to enjoy a freshly baked margherita. This is the city’s largest food market, with a wonderful array of fresh produce available.

Highlights:

To go beyond the basic slice, take a dedicated tour of the Pignasecca. Your guide will also help you pick out freshly fried veg fritters, cheese, ham, and more.

Address and opening hours:

Via Pignasecca 28, 80134 Naples. Open Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM. Closed Sundays.

FAQs

How many days should I spend in Naples?

As Naples is a small city, you might just want to spend a weekend there. However, if you're going to take day trips to Pompeii, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast, you’ll need more time.

What is the best time of year to visit Naples?

Summer in Naples can be extremely hot, and the beaches fill up. If you prefer some room to breathe, visit between fall and spring.

How do I get around Naples?

You'll probably have to familiarize yourself with the metro in Naples, the city’s subway system. Private cars are not allowed in many parts of the city center, and driving in Italy is chaotic at the best of times. You can get around the center on foot.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Naples?

Start at the Centro Storico, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible architecture. Vomero has the best nightlife, while the Quartieri Spagnoli offers excellent food and a more authentic atmosphere.

What are the best places to go shopping in Naples?

If you're looking to splash the cash, you'll find all the top designer labels in the Chiaia neighborhood. For shopping that won't break the budget, head to Via Toledo instead. Wear comfortable shoes, as this massive shopping street is over 7 miles long.