5 Days of Fun: Exploring Naples, Italy

Discover the soul of Italy in the vibrant streets and savory cuisine of Naples.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Naples, Italy, you can expect to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the city. Visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, indulge in the famous Neapolitan pizza, and stroll along the picturesque Naples waterfront. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture, Naples makes for an unforgettable travel experience.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring

  • Check into your hotel, the charmingly cozy B&B Il Giardino Segreto, which provides a perfect base for your Naples adventure.
  • Start exploring the city by taking a stroll along the famous promenade of Lungomare Caracciolo, with stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
  • Stop by the lively and colorful Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples, to admire the grand Royal Palace and the beautiful Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.
  • Experience the vibrant local culture by trying some delicious street food, such as pizza fritta, arancini, and sfogliatelle, at the bustling Mercato di Porta Nolana.
  • Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic district of Spaccanapoli, filled with ancient churches, artisan shops, and hidden courtyards.
Day 2

Napoli Sotterranea and Castel dell'Ovo

  • Descend into the fascinating underground world of Napoli Sotterranea, a network of caves, tunnels, and aqueducts that date back to the Greek and Roman periods.
  • Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of Castel Sant'Elmo, a majestic fortress built in the 14th century.
  • Visit the renowned National Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient art and artifacts, including the famous Farnese Hercules.
  • Have a seafood lunch at the historical Castel dell'Ovo, perched on a rocky islet in the bay, and savor the catch of the day with a glass of local Falanghina wine.
  • Take a stroll through the posh neighborhood of Chiaia, known for its elegant boutiques, art galleries, and gelato shops.
Day 3

Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

  • Take an early morning train to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
  • Hire a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the ruins of the Forum, the Amphitheater, the Baths, and the Villa of Mysteries, and imagine what life was like in the bustling metropolis of 20,000 inhabitants.
  • Climb up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius, the still-active volcano that looms over the Bay of Naples, and admire the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
  • Return to Naples for a hearty dinner of classic Neapolitan dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) or melanzane alla parmigiana (layered eggplant and cheese).
Day 4

Capodimonte and Catacombs

  • Explore the vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts at the Royal Palace of Capodimonte, a grandiose Bourbon residence transformed into a Museum of Art and History.
  • Wander through the peaceful gardens and orchards of the nearby Capodimonte Wood, a green oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Descend into the eerie Catacombs of San Gennaro, an underground cemetery where early Christian martyrs and bishops were buried in frescoed tombs.
  • Indulge in the local specialty of pizza margherita, named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, at one of the classic pizzerias in the historical center, such as Da Michele or Sorbillo.
  • Attend an evening performance of opera, ballet, or theater at the majestic San Carlo Theatre, one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Europe.
Day 5

Amalfi Coast

  • Take a day trip to the stunning Amalfi Coast, a stretch of picturesque fishing villages, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters that has inspired artists, writers, and celebrities for centuries.
  • Drive or take the ferry along the winding roads of the coast, stopping at the charming towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each with its unique beauty and character.
  • Relax on one of the scenic beaches or coves, such as Fornillo, Atrani, or Marina di Praia, and enjoy the warm sun and refreshing sea.
  • Taste the exquisite limoncello, the sweet and tangy liqueur made from the lemons of Sorrento and Amalfi, at a local distillery.
  • Return to Naples for a farewell dinner of fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and delicious wine, bidding arrivederci to this unforgettable city and its authentic soul.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Naples, Italy by plane is to fly into Naples International Airport (NAP) from major airports such as JFK Airport in New York, or Heathrow in London.

Car

You can rent a car from major cities in Italy such as Rome or Florence and drive to Naples. The journey takes about 2-3 hours depending on the traffic.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a high-speed train from Rome to Naples. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and arrives at Napoli Centrale station.

Boat

There is a ferry service that operates from various ports in Italy such as Sorrento, Amalfi, and Positano to Naples. This is a great way to experience the beautiful coastline while arriving in Naples.

Bus

There are several bus companies that serve Naples from major cities in Italy such as Rome, Florence, and Milan. Flixbus is one of the most popular and comfortable bus companies for this route.

More travel plans

Discovering Naples in 48 Hours

Naples, Italy is a bustling city located in southern Italy that is known for its rich history, culture, and cuisine. As a tourist, you can explore the ruins of Pompeii, visit world-renowned museums and galleries, and indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza and seafood dishes. With its stunning architecture, vibrant street life, and warm climate, Naples is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the best that Italy has to offer.

Fall in love with Naples: A romantic day trip

Naples, Italy offers a perfect romantic escape with its stunning coastlines, ancient ruins and lip-smacking cuisine. Stroll hand in hand with your loved one along the city's historic old town, watch the glistening sunset from Lungomare, and savour Neapolitan pizza with a glass of local wine, all while experiencing the vibrant culture and art scene that the city has to offer. Don't forget to explore the iconic landmarks like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius and the colourful island of Capri for a well-rounded romantic getaway.

Naples Unpacked: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

My apologies, as an AI language model, I don't have personal experience or opinions on trips. However, here's my attempt at a three sentence overview of a trip to Naples, Italy for a limited budget: Travelers can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Naples by exploring the city's rich history, art, and cuisine. Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum for an up-close view of ancient ruins, indulge in local street food and pizza, and explore Naples' historic churches and castles. Accommodation options vary from budget-friendly hostels to Airbnb rentals and inexpensive hotels, making it easy to stay within a budget while experiencing the best of Naples' cultural offerings.

Vibrant Naples: A 5-Day Budget Adventure

Naples offers a rich cultural experience for those on a limited budget. With its vibrant street markets, winding alleyways, and picturesque piazzas, visitors can enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on the world-famous pizza while taking in the stunning views of Mt. Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.