Naples
Napoli
Naples is the vibrant capital of Campania, known for its rich history, world-famous cuisine, and chaotic energy. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with churches, underground ruins, and street markets.
Things to do
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum — Home to the finest collection of Greco-Roman artifacts in the world, including Pompeii treasures.
- Explore the Spaccanapoli street — This iconic street cuts through the old city and is lined with shops, churches, and street food vendors.
- Tour Castel dell'Ovo — Visit this seaside castle for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the historic waterfront.
- Discover the Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea) — Explore Greek-Roman tunnels and aqueducts beneath the city streets on a guided tour.
- Eat pizza at a historic pizzeria — Try Pizzeria Brandi or L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, birthplaces of the classic Margherita.
- Visit Cappella Sansevero — Marvel at the breathtaking Veiled Christ sculpture and alchemical art in this 18th-century private chapel.
- Explore Certosa di San Martino — Tour this stunning hilltop Carthusian monastery with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and a rich museum inside.
- Stroll through Quartieri Spagnoli — Wander the vibrant Spanish Quarter streets filled with street art, local shrines, and authentic Neapolitan life.
- See the Royal Palace of Naples — Explore the grand Palazzo Reale on Piazza del Plebiscito, home to lavish royal apartments and a historic library.
- Day trip to Pompeii ruins — Take a short train ride on the Circumvesuviana to walk the remarkably preserved ancient Roman city buried by Vesuvius.
Food to try
- Pizza Margherita — The original Neapolitan pizza with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
- Sfogliatella — A crispy or soft shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta and semolina cream.
- Ragù napoletano — A slow-cooked meat sauce simmered for hours, served over pasta like ziti or rigatoni.
- Caffè napoletano — Strong, dark espresso served in small cups, a daily ritual for every Neapolitan.
Local customs & good to know
- Stay alert in busy areas — Petty theft can occur in crowded markets and tourist zones, keep bags close.
- Dress modestly in churches — Cover shoulders and knees when entering Naples' many historic churches and basilicas.
- Embrace the chaos — Naples traffic and street life can feel overwhelming, but going with the flow is part of the experience.