Best 20 things to do in Naples, Italy

Welcome to Naples, the city of mouthwatering pizza and volcanic excitement! Here is a tongue-in-cheek guide to the best 20 activities that will make your time in Naples more memorable than trying to pronounce "Vesuvius" without sounding like you have something stuck in your throat. Explore the labyrinthine streets of the historic center, where you can stumble upon hidden gelato treasures faster than an Italian granny chasing down a pickpocket. Delight in the peculiar beauty of the Veiled Christ statue at Sansevero Chapel, which will make you question whether marble can shed tears whilst looking suspiciously at your own tissues. And if you're feeling adventurous, take a heart-racing hike up Mount Vesuvius because, hey, nothing says "carpe diem" like ascending an active volcano and feeling your heart race faster than the Napoli traffic.

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1. Take a walk along the beautiful Lungomare Caracciolo promenade

Via Francesco Caracciolo, Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to Naples, where even the promenade embraces its innate charm and unpredictability! Stroll along the captivating Lungomare Caracciolo, a sight that will make you ponder - "Is it a catwalk or a seaside walk?" Experience the vivacity of Neapolitan life as you navigate through a never-ending montage of stylish cyclists, daring rollerbladers, and a few enthusiastic salsa dancers, who somehow find a way to waltz their way through the crowd.

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2. Explore the underground tunnels of Napoli Sotterranea

4.7 (4587)

Vico S. Anna di Palazzo, 52, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to Napoli Sotterranea, where you can take a delightful stroll through the labyrinthine underworld of Naples, if you dare! Prepare to embark on an adventure that will make you feel like a modern-day Indiana Jones, but with a greater risk of encountering an Italian rat wearing a miniature beret. These tunnels are not for the faint-hearted, so make sure to bring your sense of humor and preferably a spare pair of undies in case you encounter any ghostly rodents along the way!

www.lanapolisotterranea.it

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3. Admire the artwork and architecture of Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)

4.8 (1144)

Via Duomo, 147, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Discover the majestic Naples Cathedral, a delightful concoction of jaw-dropping art and architectural marvels. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings that seem to have been done by aliens armed with chisels, as you navigate your way through this cathedral that is like a maze of religious surprises. Prepare to feel both humbled and thoroughly confused by the dizzying blend of baroque, gothic, and Neapolitan styles that somehow manage to coexist harmoniously under one roof.

www.cappellasangennaro.it

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4. Visit the ancient Roman theatre of Naples (Teatro Romano)

4.6 (129)

Vico Cinquesanti, 13, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to the ancient Roman theatre of Naples, or as I like to call it, the "dramatic time machine"! This impressive amphitheater, nestled in the heart of Naples, is sure to transport you back to the days of togas and epic performances. Marvel at the grandeur of this archaeological gem, and who knows, you might just feel a sudden urge to recite Shakespeare in Latin!

www.napolisotterranea.org

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5. Discover the stunning Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)

4.6 (7879)

Piazza del Plebiscito, 1, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to the Royal Palace of Naples, or as the locals call it, "the fanciest crib in town!" Prepare to have your socks knocked off by this stunning architectural masterpiece, complete with opulent rooms that will make your own living room feel like a sad bean bag chair. And hey, if you've ever wondered what it feels like to be royalty without actually having a royal lineage, this is your chance to rock a crown and pretend you're the next king or queen of Naples. So, grab your camera, put on your best aristocratic smirk, and get ready for a royal adventure fit for the most glamorous of travelers.

palazzorealedinapoli.org

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6. Enjoy panoramic views from Castel Sant'Elmo

4.6 (23033)

Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy

If you're tired of squinting at tiny maps and struggling to find your way around Naples, fear not! Castel Sant'Elmo is here to save the day, offering you panoramic views that will blow your socks off (or sandals, depending on your fashion choices). Prepare to have your breath stolen by the stunning vistas of the city, making you feel like you're in a real-life version of Google Earth, minus the mini people. So grab your camera, put on your best selfie-taking face, and get ready to conquer Castel Sant'Elmo like the travel-savvy explorer you secretly are!

www.beniculturali.it

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7. Climb Mount Vesuvius

4.3 (5871)

Mount Vesuvius, 80044 Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

Are you ready to embark on an adventure that will literally make your heart race? Say hello to Mount Vesuvius in Naples, where you can climb your way to the top and feel like a conqueror of volcanic proportions. Prepare yourself for breathtaking views, lung-busting hikes, and the constant fear that at any moment, the ground might just decide to shake things up a bit! So pack your sense of humor (and maybe a gas mask just in case), and get ready to take on the fiery challenge that awaits you on Mount Vesuvius. Bon voyage and may the lava gods be ever in your favor!

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8. Stroll through the historic center of Naples (Centro Storico)

4.6 (94)

Via dei Tribunali, 44, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

As you embark on a whimsical journey through the historic center of Naples, brace yourself for a captivating blend of chaos and charm. The streets, like a swirling labyrinth, taunt you to follow their mysterious twists and turns. Be prepared to dodge a series of Vespas driven by daredevil locals who weave through traffic with the grace of a flamenco dancer and the recklessness of a bull in a china shop. As you stroll along, keep one eye on the breathtaking architecture while using your other eye to spot the ever-elusive elusive parking spot; a mythical creature that supposedly exists only in the realm of dreams.

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9. Indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza

4.4 (31432)

Via Cesare Sersale, 1, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to the pizza paradise of Naples, where you can stuff your face with slices of authentic Neapolitan pizza that will leave you questioning why you ever settled for anything less. Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance, as you indulge in the city's iconic wood-fired pizza ovens, producing cheesy masterpieces that will make you forget your very existence. Just a warning: attempting to resist these mouthwatering pizzas might result in spontaneous pizza-related fantasies and cravings that even the most disciplined traveler won't be able to resist.

www.damichele.net

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10. Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum

4.6 (25227)

Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to the Naples National Archaeological Museum, where history comes alive like a well-preserved mummy...minus the funky smell! Get ready to have your mind blown by their mind-boggling collection of ancient artifacts; it's like Indiana Jones meets an episode of Antiques Roadshow, but without that one overly enthusiastic appraiser. Oh, and don't forget to take a selfie with the famous statue of the Farnese Hercules – playing "guess those muscles" will surely make your trip a Herculean success!

www.museoarcheologiconapoli.it

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11. Take a boat tour to the beautiful islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida

5 (30)

Via Roma, 80079 Procida NA, Italy

Welcome aboard, adventurous souls! Get ready to set sail on a delightful boat tour that will take you to the captivating islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida in charming Naples. Prepare yourself for a rollicking ride through crystal-clear waters, jaw-dropping panoramas, and enough gelato stops to give your taste buds a triumphant mission! So, grab your nautical hat, sunscreen, and an ample sense of humor, because these islands promise to make your vacation merrier than a leprechaun with a winning lottery ticket!

www.procidaboattour.it

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12. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Spaccanapoli street

Welcome to the lively chaos of Spaccanapoli street in Naples, where history, culture, and scooters intertwine like strands of spaghetti! As you dare to venture into this narrow, winding street, be prepared to navigate through the symphony of honking horns, flamboyant hand gestures, and a seemingly endless sea of Vespas. Brace yourself for an unforgettable sensory overload, as the tantalizing aromas of pizza clash with the occasional whiff of laundry hanging above you, providing a truly authentic Neapolitan experience.

13. Visit the picturesque seaside district of Santa Lucia

4.9 (94)

Passaggio Castel dell'Ovo, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to Santa Lucia, where the crashing waves and colorful umbrellas await to coax your pale skin into a vibrant shade resembling a psychedelic butterfly. This picturesque seaside district in Naples will sprinkle your vacation with equal parts charm and confusion, as you pretend to understand the local dialect while hurriedly devouring a heaping plate of spaghetti alle vongole. Just don't forget to ask for directions, or you might find yourself straying from the winding streets and ending up in someone's laundry room, clad in nothing but a towel and an awkward smile.

www.seasidenapoli.com

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14. Admire the grandeur of the San Carlo Theatre

4.8 (6697)

Via San Carlo, 98, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to the San Carlo Theatre in Naples, where drama takes the center stage, and even the walls whisper stories of entertainment gone wrong. This majestic theater, known as the "San Carlo Grande Showtime Palace," will leave you in awe with its opulent interiors and a ceiling fresco that's literally brighter than your future. Beware of the lavish chandeliers though, they have a knack for interrupting emotional moments by "accidentally" falling at the most inconvenient times.

www.teatrosancarlo.it

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15. Discover the Catacombs of San Gaudioso

4.7 (3771)

Via Sanità, 123, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy

Welcome to Naples, where the adventurous souls get a chance to tickle their bones at the Catacombs of San Gaudioso! Descend into the depths of eeriness and experience the ultimate underground experience that promises more skeletons than a pirate movie marathon. Prepare to be awe-struck by these macabre masterpieces as you find yourself face-to-face with the residents of this city's creepiest "neighborhood."

www.catacombedinapoli.it

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16. Explore the charm of the Quartieri Spagnoli district

Welcome to Quartieri Spagnoli, the neighborhood that proves that chaos is an art form! Brace yourself for a wild ride through narrow streets that will leave your GPS crying for mercy. Get ready to unleash your inner Indiana Jones as you navigate the labyrinthine alleyways and dodge speeding Vespas, all while trying to decide which gelateria to conquer first!

17. Marvel at the unique artwork in the Certosa e Museo di San Martino

4.5 (5024)

Largo S. Martino, 5, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy

Prepare to be blown away by the dazzling artwork Marvel-lous-ly displayed at the Certosa e Museo di San Martino in Naples! This hidden gem boasts a collection that is not just eye-catching, but also mind-bogglingly unique. From the moment you step inside, be prepared to be whisked away on a visual adventure that will leave you marveling at the artistry like a wide-eyed superhero.

cultura.gov.it

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18. Marvel at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples

4.6 (25227)

Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Marvel at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, where ancient history sits on display like a hipster's collection of vintage vinyl records. Be prepared to have your mind blown by the awesomeness of Roman frescoes that have survived through time, proving that even ancient folks knew the importance of interior design. Just remember to behave, or the statues might come to life and give you a stern lecture on proper museum etiquette.

www.museoarcheologiconapoli.it

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19. Explore the ancient city of Herculaneum

4.7 (8520)

Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy

Welcome to the vibrant and slightly offbeat city of Naples, where the ruins of Herculaneum patiently await curious adventurers! Prepare to delve into the fascinating history of this ancient gem, affectionately known as the slightly smaller, but equally charming cousin of Pompeii. As you stroll through the streets frozen in time, you might even catch a glimpse of Herculaneum's mischievous spirit, whispering tales of the past amongst the ruins.

ercolano.beniculturali.it

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20. Visit the ruins of Pompeii

4.8 (3875)

Vicolo del Panettiere, 80045 Pompei NA, Italy

Oh, Pompeii, where time stood still, or rather, got buried under a heap of volcanic ash! Prepare to channel your inner archaeologist as you explore the ruins of this ancient city just outside of Naples. And don't forget your detective hat, you'll be following the footsteps of long-gone Romans in what may feel like the world's most chaotic game of hide-and-seek!

www.pompeiisites.org

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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.

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