Famous for being the home of amazing pizza with a super light and fluffy crust, there’s a lot more to Naples than one of the best dishes that’s ever been invented. It may look a little rough and ready, but the city’s ancient streets harbor a wealth of fascinating attractions and unbeatable experiences you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Winter in Naples can get a little grim, with temperatures dropping down to 40°F and plenty of rain. That’s why we recommend visiting in summer. At this time of year, the skies are clear, there’s plenty of sunshine, and temperatures are around the mid-70s. It’s a wonderful time to explore the many outdoor attractions the city has to offer.
With so many exciting things to see and do, you may be struggling with where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the ultimate best things to do in Naples, Italy. Add these cool activities and attractions to your Naples bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an incredible time exploring this historic Italian city.
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1. See the Erotic Art Salvaged from Pompeii and Herculaneum
Pompeii is one of the most important sites in Italy. But you won’t find all the cool stuff that was salvaged after the eruption in the cities. If you want to see that, you need to go to the National Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli).
This fascinating museum is home to all sorts of erotic art that was discovered by archaeologists in the 19th century as they were excavating the area. Definitely one of the most unique things to do in Naples, a trip to this museum will open your eyes to statues of the incredibly well-endowed god Priapus who was often used as a good-luck symbol on everything from phallic wind chimes and all kinds of bizarre sexual paintings.
The Goat is the most popular piece to check out. The unusual artifact depicts a satyr being intimate with a female goat. If you take a close look, you can see the couple gazing into each other’s eyes romantically.
2. Stand at the Peak of Mount Vesuvius
You won’t find the most astounding panoramas at street level. For the best sights in Naples, you need to grab your hiking boots and conquer Mount Vesuvius. This natural wonder dominates the skyline and can be seen from practically everywhere in the city.
It erupted way back in 79 AD, causing the catastrophic destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Although it’s still classed as an active volcano today, it’s very unlikely to erupt, making it safe to climb.
To reach the summit, you’ll need to take the EAV Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Piazza Garibaldi to Ercolano, then hop on a shuttle bus. After that, there’s just a 20-30 minute hike to the top of the volcano.
If that sounds like too much fuss for you, there is an easier way – sign up for a guided tour. This relaxed tour starts with a wonderful lunch at a vineyard before heading to the peak of Mount Vesuvius. It includes skip-the-line tickets, so you don’t have to worry about wasting any time.
3. Step Back in Time at Castel Nuovo
For some top-notch Naples sightseeing, head to Castel Nuovo. Originally built sometime between 1279 and 1282, this ancient fortress is one of the main features of the city’s skyline and is the first thing that will pop into view if you arrive in the city by cruise ship.
Thanks to its convenient location, just steps away from the Piazza del Plebiscito, Castel Nuovo is incredibly easy to access. Although it was first built in the 13th century and commissioned by King Charles I of Anjou, it was completely rebuilt in the 15th century under the rule of Alfonso V of Aragon. This is why it has a quintessential Medieval Renaissance look today.
Castel Nuovo is overwhelmingly large, and you could easily spend an entire day exploring it. It’s made up of five round towers, which are joined together by solid stone walls. To enter, you have to pass through a stunning white marble arch tucked between two watchtowers.
Some of the most impressive parts of the castle you’ve got to check out include the Cappella Palatina, where you can see ancient frescoes, and the Armory Hall, where you’ll find genuine Roman ruins kept safe below a glass floor.
4. Stop by the Most Beautiful Metro Station in Europe
You may not think a metro station is worthy of being on a list of the best things to do in Naples, but just wait until you see the Toledo metro station. This station looks perfectly ordinary from the outside. But as you step onto the escalator that takes you 130 feet underground, you’ll feel like you’re in an art gallery – not a place where the metro whizzes through.
The Toledo metro station is divided into levels, each of which is themed with a different color that relates to a certain aspect of the city. The atrium on the first floor is black – a reminder of the asphalt of contemporary civilization. Take a look around, and you’ll spot original Aragonese mosaics set into the walls.
Continue on down, and you’ll discover mesmerizing walls that transform to shades of red and yellow, reflecting the Neapolitan sun. The deepest level is reserved for an impressive blue and green color scheme that has been influenced by the sea.
5. Fall In Love With Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
No matter how many times you’ve had this fast food favorite before, ordering a genuine Neapolitan pizza is one of the must-do things in Naples. What makes Neapolitan pizza unique is the requirements it must meet to be worthy of the name.
It can only be topped with San Marzano or Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio tomatoes and Mozzarella di Bufala Campana or Fior di Latte. The pizza dough must be made from wheat flour, Neapolitan or brewer’s yeast, salt, and water. This all makes it sound pretty boring, but just wait until you taste it!
One thing to keep in mind is that you won’t see Neapolitan pizza advertised in Naples. This is because all the pizza in the city is Neapolitan. So wherever you see pizza on sale, you can be sure it’s the special kind.
Sorbillo is one of the most popular pizzerias in Naples, and for good reason, too. You may find yourself waiting up to 90 minutes to get in, but it’s worth it for the chance to devour some of the most incredible pizza you’ve ever had in your life.
6. Walk through the Ruins of Pompeii
Wandering around the ancient remains of Pompeii is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Naples. This is the city that was almost completely destroyed when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Although a lot of the most interesting artifacts and discoveries are kept safe in the National Museum, there are still plenty of remarkable things to discover in the city.
The significant amount of ash that settled over the city acted as a protective layer, keeping Pompeii in a pretty good condition. Some of the most impressive parts of the city include the Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Apollo, and the Amphitheater. While you’re totally free to explore the place on your own, we suggest you sign up for a tour to get the most out of it.
This small group tour starts with an overview of the settlement, where your guide will point out the most important structures. They’ll also help you spot the hidden-in-plain-sight signs that pointed to brothels almost 2,000 years ago. They’re really hard to spot on your own if you don’t know what you’re looking for. You’ll have the chance to spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace.
7. Explore Places Usually Off-Limits as Part of Maggio dei Monumenti
If you’re planning on visiting the city in late spring or early summer, you’ve got to check out the Maggio dei Monumenti. One of the top Naples activities, this event takes place throughout April, May, and June and gives you the chance to explore fascinating cultural spots that visitors aren’t normally allowed to enter.
With an exciting program packed full of guided tours, theater performances, art displays, rare exhibits, book readings, and loads more, there’s plenty of stuff going on to keep you entertained, whatever you’re into. Most of the activities are held in churches, palaces, and exhibition halls that waive the entrance fee as part of the event.
Although each edition of the festival features similar activities, every year follows a new theme, making it unique. The themes are usually dedicated to a specific historical character who had a major impact on Naples.
As all the events are free and accessible to everyone, Maggio dei Monumenti is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Naples’s culture and history on a budget.
8. Be Amazed by the Displays at the Museo Cappella Sansevero
Naples is bursting with magnificent architecture, and the Museo Cappella Sansevero is one example you’ve got to check out. One of the most astounding things to see in Naples, this conspicuous chapel was built in 1590 and was originally a private building exclusively created for the Duke of Torremaggoire.
By 1613, it had become the family’s chapel, and today it has progressed into one of the most stunning tourist attractions you’ll find in the city. From the outside, the chapel doesn’t look like it’s even worth visiting. But as soon as you step through the entrance, you’ll definitely be glad you did.
Almost every inch of the inside of the church is decorated with incredibly intricate carvings and sculptures. There’s so much to take in that it’s impossible not to feel overwhelmed. No matter how long you spend looking around, you’ll notice new things you didn’t see at first again and again.
Even the ceiling is covered in dramatic frescoes with marvelous marble statues perched on either side.
9. Celebrate Christmas at Via dei Presepo
No matter what time of year you choose to visit, one of the most fun things to do in Naples is to take a walk down Via dei Presepo. Located in the beating heart of the city, this street is officially known as Via San Gregorio Armeno, but it’s known by its nickname because it’s filled with cute shops selling the traditional Neapolitan presepio (Christian nativity scene).
Whether you visit at the beginning of December or the middle of August, you’ll find this street packed with stores of all sizes selling every kind of nativity figure you could imagine. As well as all the classic characters you’d expect to see, some of the stores even sell modern figurines, like Taylor Swift, Kim Kardashian, and Johnny Depp, which you can use to create a one-of-a-kind festive scene.
This street is a fantastic place to swing by to pick up a unique memento of your trip or quirky gifts for friends and family back home. Because there’s so much competition along the street, all the prices are pretty reasonable, so you don’t have to worry about shopping around.
10. Snack on Sfogliatelle
When you need a break from hopping between all the Naples attractions, stop by a bakery and order yourself a sfogliatelle. Known as a lobster tail in the US, these amazing pastries are so addictive that you’ll never be able to stop at just one. The name translates into English as “small, thin leaf” and that’s what they look like – super-fine layers of pastry piled high, with a wonderfully rich and creamy filling in the center.
You’ll find two different types of sfogliatelle in Naples. There’s a “Riccia” version which is the flaky, curly ones most people are familiar with and the “Frolla” type which is like a miniature ricotta pie. Try both and work out which one you like best!
SfogliateLAB is the best place in the city to try this classic pastry. This bakery has been owned by the Ferrieri family for more than 100 years and serves traditional sfogliatelle. The master bakers also deliver amazing sfogliacampanella, which is a combination between sfogliatella and baba.
11. Live the Neapolitan Life in Santa Lucia
Neapolitan towns and villages are beyond stunning, and one of the top things to do in Naples is to take your time and really get to know them. One gorgeous neighborhood that’s worth going out of your way to check out is Santa Lucia. Located to the west of Piazza del Plebiscito, this enchanting district is teeming with narrow cobbled streets that are just begging to be explored.
We suggest you simply start walking and see where your feet take you. Head inland, and you’ll find countless cute cafes, bars, restaurants, and craft shops. Or head toward the coast, and you’ll wind up walking along a dazzling path that lines the ocean and marina.
This part of the city is always bustling with locals. During the week, you’ll find them going about work chores and errands. Or if you visit on a weekend, you’ll be surrounded by locals making the most of their free time, walking along the promenade, chatting in cafes, and shopping for trinkets.
12. Attend the Napoli Teatro Festival Italia
If you’re searching for a little bit of culture, checking out the Napoli Teatro Festival Italia is one of the best things to do in Naples. This event takes place every year across several weeks between June and July, then again between September and October, giving you plenty of opportunities to take part.
Around 140 engrossing events are held throughout the festival, including exhibitions, workshops, theatrical performances, opera concerts, dance recitals, and an awards ceremony. Each year there’s also a surprise show which is definitely worth checking out.
Don’t let the language barrier put you off. A lot of the performances are very visual, making them accessible to everyone.
If you can only make one performance, we suggest the opening or closing show. They’re always the most spectacular. Take a look at the official website to find out the exact dates, times, and locations of performances.
13. Explore the Secret Catacombs of San Gennaro
Looking for obscure activities that you won’t find in all the other travel guides? Then make plans to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. One of the most unusual and interesting Naples attractions, the catacombs are an underground labyrinth home to all kinds of captivating, if a little macabre, things to see.
As you explore the network of passageways and tunnels, you’ll come across hidden crypts and graves that date back to the beginning of Naples. The catacombs are divided into two intriguing layers, both of which are worth checking out.
The bottom level alone is where you’ll find more than 3,000 burial sites, gently illuminated by dim lights, which adds to the eerie vibe. The top level of the catacombs is a little less spooky. Here you can take a look at beautifully detailed frescoes and remarkable artwork.
One of the best things about this attraction is that your ticket is valid for 12 months. So if you’re not sure when you plan on fitting it in, it’s still worth buying a ticket in advance.
14. Visit the Magnificent Caserta Royal Palace
Find out how Naples’ rich and famous lived centuries ago at the Caserta Royal Palace. This gorgeous building was built in the 18th century and boasts a whopping 1,200 rooms, each of which is more exquisite and ostentatious than the last.
The regal residence has a stunning combination of styles from Tuscany, Rome, and Versailles, giving the palace a unique look you can’t help but fall in love with. It’s considered one of the best examples of Italian Baroque architecture and was way ahead of its time.
As well as the dazzling rooms, the Caserta Royal Palace also boasts 4.5 hectares of impeccable gardens. Take your time and explore the manicured lawns, bubbling fountains, shimmering pools, and cascading waterfalls that make the gardens so peaceful and relaxing.
For an awesome picture, stand at the side of the garden furthest away from the palace and look back to the building. The talented architect who designed the grounds incorporated a telescope effect that allows you to capture almost two miles of the gardens in a single shot.
15. Mix It Up With Fried Pizza
You’ve almost certainly had pizza before. But have you ever tried fried pizza? This unusual dish is hugely popular throughout Naples and tastes even better than you can possibly imagine.
The dough is made fresh and topped with creamy ricotta cheese, smoked provolone, chunks of meat, black pepper, and fresh basil – just like you’d expect from an excellent pizza. But instead of being cooked in a wood-fired oven, it’s folded in half, the edges are pressed together (like a calzone), and it’s gently placed in a deep-fat fryer.
After a few minutes, the most beautifully golden and wonderfully crispy concoction is retrieved and served while it’s still hot. Antica Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo is famous for serving some of the best fried pizza in the city.
They’re bigger than your head and have the most incredibly crispy crust. They’re fabulously light, not in the slightest bit greasy, and come with a variety of fillings.
There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Naples, Italy. What’s your favorite thing to do in Naples?
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Nicola Quinn Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.
