So, you’re thinking about Naples? Great choice. This city isn’t just pizza (though, let’s be real, that alone would be reason enough). Naples is messy, colorful, historic, chaotic, and absolutely unforgettable. I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s the kind of place that gets under your skin—in a good way. Let’s walk through some spectacular things to do in Naples that’ll make your trip one for the books.
Explore the Historic Center
If Naples had a heartbeat, it’d be in the Centro Storico (Historic Center). The streets are narrow, noisy, and full of life. You’ll see laundry hanging above your head, scooters buzzing by, and churches squeezed into corners you didn’t think could fit a building.
- Visit Via San Gregorio Armeno, a street lined with artisan shops selling intricate nativity figurines.
- Step inside Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)—home to some seriously impressive relics.
- Wander aimlessly. Honestly, half the magic comes from getting “lost” in these alleys.
Ever wanted to step into a living postcard that yells at you in Italian? Yeah, that’s this place.
Eat Pizza at the Source
Okay, let’s get this out of the way: Naples is the birthplace of pizza. Not the frozen kind. Not the “add pineapple and call it fusion” kind. We’re talking proper, wood-fired, thin, slightly chewy perfection.
Two iconic spots?
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – You’ve probably seen this one in “Eat, Pray, Love.” The menu? Two pizzas: marinara or margherita. Simple. Perfect.
- Sorbillo – Legendary, with a huge variety. Expect long lines, but IMO, that’s just more time to anticipate heaven.
And no, I don’t care if you “don’t even like pizza that much.” You’ll like this pizza. ;)
Visit the Naples Underground
Naples has secrets—literally under your feet. Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground) is a maze of tunnels, caves, and chambers carved out thousands of years ago. You’ll walk through ancient aqueducts, WWII shelters, and even old Roman markets.
It feels surreal knowing there’s a whole other city beneath the chaos above. Like, who thought, “You know what Naples needs? A second Naples underground.”
Marvel at the National Archaeological Museum
If you’re into history (or just want to escape the heat), the Museo Archeologico Nazionale is a must. This place holds one of the most important collections of Greek and Roman artifacts anywhere.
- The Pompeii and Herculaneum treasures are jaw-dropping.
- You’ll also find mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes that survived Mount Vesuvius’ tantrum.
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” you’ll appreciate seeing art and artifacts that literally defined civilizations.
Day Trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum
Speaking of Vesuvius’ tantrum... Pompeii and Herculaneum are right on Naples’ doorstep. Visiting them feels like stepping into a time capsule.
- Pompeii is massive—streets, temples, houses, even an ancient fast-food joint (yes, Romans invented take-out).
- Herculaneum is smaller but better preserved. Think colorful frescoes and wooden doors that somehow survived lava.
Pro tip: bring water, comfy shoes, and maybe a bit of patience. These sites get busy, but the wow factor makes it worth it.
Climb Mount Vesuvius
You’ve admired Vesuvius from afar, now it’s time to get up close and personal. The hike up isn’t too crazy, and once you’re at the crater rim, the view over the Bay of Naples is unreal.
Fun fact: Vesuvius is still active. Yup, you’re literally climbing a volcano that could technically blow again. Don’t worry, though. The scientists keep a very close eye on it. (Reassuring, right?)
Stroll Along the Lungomare
Need a break from ruins and pizza comas? Head to the Lungomare, Naples’ scenic seafront promenade.
- Grab a gelato and stroll with locals.
- Snap photos of Castel dell’Ovo, the seaside fortress.
- Enjoy epic views of Vesuvius looming in the background.
It’s the kind of spot where you just stop, breathe, and think, “Yep, life is good.”
Dive into Neapolitan Art and Culture
Naples is bursting with creativity. If you love art, you’ll find plenty of treasures here.
- Capodimonte Museum: A former royal palace filled with masterpieces by Caravaggio, Titian, and Raphael.
- Street Art in Quartieri Spagnoli: Colorful murals decorate the walls of this working-class neighborhood, giving it a gritty-meets-creative vibe.
Honestly, the whole city feels like one giant open-air gallery.
Take a Ferry to Capri or Ischia
Here’s a little secret: one of the best things to do in Naples is actually... leave Naples. ;) Hear me out.
The Amalfi Coast islands are just a quick ferry ride away:
- Capri – Glamorous, scenic, and home to the famous Blue Grotto.
- Ischia – More laid-back, with hot springs and lush gardens.
- Procida – Tiny, colorful, and ridiculously photogenic.
If you’ve got extra days, these islands are the ultimate add-on to your Naples adventure.
Experience Naples’ Coffee Culture
Coffee in Naples isn’t just a drink—it’s a way of life. Locals down tiny espressos at the counter like it’s a competitive sport.
Try it for yourself:
- Head into any café.
- Order “un caffè.”
- Sip it fast. (Don’t even think about asking for a latte at 4 PM. That’s basically illegal here.)
Oh, and check out the tradition of caffè sospeso (“suspended coffee”), where you pay for an extra coffee for someone in need. That’s Naples—chaotic but full of heart.
Explore Castel Nuovo and Castel Sant’Elmo
Naples loves a good castle (who doesn’t?).
- Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino): Right in the city center, it looks like something out of a medieval fairytale.
- Castel Sant’Elmo: Perched on a hilltop, offering killer panoramic views of the whole city.
Because honestly, what’s better than eating pizza while looking at castles?
Get Lost in Spaccanapoli
Spaccanapoli literally means “Naples splitter,” and this long, straight street slices the city in two. Walking it feels like diving straight into the soul of Naples.
You’ll pass:
- Churches older than most countries.
- Street performers and vendors selling fried snacks.
- Locals who will happily yell at you (sometimes in a friendly way, sometimes... not).
It’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s amazing.
Try Neapolitan Street Food
Pizza isn’t the only star here. Naples has an insane street food scene:
- Sfogliatella: Flaky pastry stuffed with ricotta cream.
- Cuoppo: A paper cone filled with fried goodies like calamari, zucchini, or mozzarella bites.
- Frittatina di pasta: Fried pasta ball. Yes, fried pasta. Dreams do come true.
FYI: You’ll gain weight here. Just accept it. ;)
Soak in the Atmosphere at Piazza del Plebiscito
This grand square is Naples’ answer to, “Where do we put the big buildings?” Surrounded by the Royal Palace and San Francesco di Paola Basilica, it’s a prime spot for people-watching.
At night, the square lights up and fills with locals hanging out. If you want to feel the city’s pulse, this is it.
Conclusion: Naples Is Beautifully Chaotic
So, there you have it: the most spectacular things to do in Naples. From devouring pizza at its birthplace to climbing an active volcano, exploring underground tunnels, and hopping on ferries to dreamy islands—Naples is a city that never plays it safe.
Is it messy? Absolutely. Will scooters nearly run you over? Probably. But will you fall in love with its raw, unpolished charm? 100%.
Pack comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and maybe a little patience. Naples isn’t just a trip—it’s an experience. And once you’ve been, you’ll understand why so many people keep coming back for more. :)
