Epic things to do in Naples at night

Many visitors come to Naples in summer, when the glorious weather of southern Italy is at its best. You might be tempted to spend your days on boat trips, exploring nearby beaches, or admiring landmarks like Pompeii – but what should you do when the sun goes down?

You're in luck, as there are some amazing things to do in Naples at night. Enjoy a special meal that celebrates the best of Neapolitan cuisine or take an evening tour to see another side of the city. Watch a traditional concert or nibble on a pizza while the sun sets. This is a city that comes to life when the sun goes down, and now it's your chance to join in the fun.

1. Join in the fun of a traditional Neapolitan concert

A Traditional Neapolitan Music Concert is the perfect way to start your evening in Naples. You'll enjoy a couple of drinks as you watch the singers who perform this passionate, intense music without microphones. Learn more about the unique culture that has long marked Naples as being different from the rest of Italy.

Hot tip:

The concert will end with a rousing rendition of O Sole Mio, and the audience is always invited to sing along. Start practicing your scales before you arrive.

2. Have a home-cooked meal just like Nonna used to make

A Dining Experience at a Local's Home gives you a ticket into the globally-renowned world of Italian home cooking. A local, passionate foodie will meet you and prepare a spectacular meal for you. If you want to see the authentic side of Naples, it's hard to beat.

Hot tip:

This isn't a cooking workshop, but you can still watch your host preparing the food. It's a great way to pick up some cooking tips to take home with you.

3. Take an after-dark tour that blends food and legends

A Naples by Night: Food and Wine Walking Tour with Local Guide is one of the best ways to see the city. You'll enjoy some great local snacks while your guide takes you around the sights, sharing some myths and legends. Don't miss the pizza fritta, a deep-fried pizza beloved by Neapolitans.

Hot tip:

This is an ideal activity when you first arrive in Naples. Along the way, you'll see the city's most famous monuments and learn to orient yourself.

4. Have a night at the opera at the Real Teatro di San Carlo

The Real Teatro di San Carlo is one of the largest and grandest opera houses in Italy. If you're lucky, you might be able to catch an opera, concert, or ballet performance. The atmosphere really is out of this world.

Hot tip:

Watch out, as this opera house has a reputation for attracting boisterous audiences. Don't be surprised if your fellow theater-goers start booing a performer who hits the wrong note.

5. See artisans at work on Via San Gregorio Armeno

Via San Gregorio Armeno is one of the most traditional and interesting streets in Naples. The stores here focus on classic Neapolitan art, and in the early evening, you'll see artisans and skilled craftsmen carefully creating jewelry, furniture, and other beautiful pieces. It's a great place to go for a stroll and do some window shopping.

Hot tip:

Want to buy something that you see? Even many of the small stores here now ship internationally to save you the hassle of carrying heavy goods home with you.

6. Become a true Neapolitan with a meal you'll never forget

A Slice of Naples: Pizza, Wines and Private Rooftop Dining is so much more than just a dinner. You'll try three different types of traditional pizza, taste rich local wines, and learn to dance the Tarantella, the classical Neapolitan dance. At the end of the evening, you'll go home with a "True Neapolitan" certificate.

Hot tip:

One of the highlights of the evening is the chance to learn authentic Italian hand gestures. Be careful, though, as some are quite rude.

7. Join the party in the Spanish Quarter

The Spanish Quarter is one of the liveliest, most authentic neighborhoods in Naples. It's fun by day, but at night it really lights up, with lots of quirky bars and great places to enjoy a drink or a meal. As you walk the streets, check out the giant murals of Diego Maradona, the soccer star and Neapolitan hero.

Hot tip:

Start with an early evening Spanish Quarter Walking Tour. Your guide will help you figure out where to go for an evening of fun in this vibrant part of town.

8. Start your evening in style with a Neapolitan pizza workshop

Pizza was invented in Naples, and locals will chow down on a slice at every opportunity. At this evening Make Your Own Neapolitan Pizza Workshop, you'll learn their secrets. When the cooking's done, settle down to eat your very own pizza with a glass of wine.

Hot tip:

You'll learn to make the classic Margherita pizza, which was invented in honor of an Italian queen. The red tomato, white mozzarella, and green basil represent the colors of the national flag.

9. Watch the sunset from Parco Virgiliano

Naples' premier city park is the beautiful Parco Virgiliano. This hilly park gives you superb views over Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples, and it's the ideal place to start your evening. Climb up to watch the sunset and let the views dazzle you.

Hot tip:

The park is open until 11:30 PM every night, so it's also popular for nighttime walks. Don't be surprised if you see groups of local teens here on the weekends, sneaking a few drinks before they head out on the town.

10. Take a waterfront walk along Via Caracciolo

On a hot summer night, head down to the Chiaia neighborhood. This waterfront part of Naples is perfect if you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze. Via Caracciolo, which runs along the seafront, is one of the best spots in town for an evening promenade.

Hot tip:

There are also some great bars and restaurants in Chiaia. When you've worked up an appetite, why not stop at one of them for some delicious local seafood?

FAQs

What are some of the top nighttime attractions in Naples?

The bars and restaurants are the main nighttime attraction in Naples. This city is a foodie's paradise, and when the sun goes down, most locals want to indulge in some tasty treats. However, you'll also often find concerts and shows if you want something different.

What are the best areas for a nighttime stroll in Naples?

The Parco Virgiliano is an excellent spot for some fresh air in the evening. You'll also find plenty of people taking a walk along Via Caraccioli in the seafront Chiaia neighborhood.

What are the most popular night tours in Naples?

Most night tours in Naples focus on food. You'll generally go from one bar to the next, enjoying a few bites along the way. You may even get to sample several different types of Naples' much-loved pizza.

What are some fun activities to do with kids in Naples at night?

Don't be surprised if you see kids eating in restaurants and on terraces quite late. Italians often bring their children to dine with them, even long after the sun has gone down.

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Naples?

If you're looking for peace and quiet, try watching the sunset in the Parco Virgiliano or strolling along the Chiaia waterfront. If you're up for something livelier, head to the bars of the Spanish Quarter.