Naples, renowned for its Neo-Gothic art & architecture, the Royal Palace, famous museums, and the birthplace of pizza, is a city that no traveler should miss, particularly for history buffs. Explore and rediscover the many tourist sites in Naples – Italy's oldest and third largest city.
Only a few kilometers away from the city of Naples is Mount Vesuvius, standing majestically at a height of 1,281 meters. This active volcano is best known for its disastrous eruption in 79A.D. which destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Because of its proximity to Naples and many nearby cities, it's considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. You can visit the volcano and hike to the crater, just make sure that before going up, you buy a ticket online.
To learn more about the history of the early Greek, Roman, and Renaissance periods, visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. The museum houses a collection of ancient objects and artifacts, exquisite Roman sculptures, original mosaics depicting the life of Roman times, and more! Purchase your ticket in advance for quicker entry and more time exploring the halls of the museum.
Piazza del Plebiscito is the city's largest square and one of the popular tourist attractions in Naples. The piazza was named after the plebiscite of 1860 that united the city to the Kingdom of Italy. Built from the volcanic rocks of Mt. Vesuvius, this neoclassical tourist spot is home to the main monuments of the region, such as the Royal Palace, the domed Basilica of San Francesco da Paola, the equestrian statues and more. The piazza is also home to a wide number of cultural activities and concerts.
Established in the 17th century as one of the residences of the House of Bourbon, the Royal Palace of Naples is a must-see attraction in the region. Found inside the compounds of Piazza del Plebiscito, you will appreciate the neoclassical-baroque architecture of the palace and its impressive interiors. The palace is also a museum showing the rich history of Naples. Walk through the halls of its most common quarters, such as the Grand Throne Room, the Palatine Chapel, the Hercules Hall and the Hall of Ambassadors.
Just off the Gulf of Naples, you'll find the oldest castle in town, the Castle of Ovo or the Castel dell’Ovo. Named after the Roman poet and great sorcerer Virgil, legends claim he set a magic egg in the base of the castle. And if this egg broke, the castle would be destroyed, and Naples would be destroyed as well. Luckily, both the egg and the castle are still standing today, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the stunning view of the ocean.
The impressive Castel Nuovo, or Maschio Angioino (Angevin Keep), a Renaissance fortress built in the 13th century, is located next to the port of Naples. The castle is one of the city's prominent architectural landmarks where it used to play host for the Kings of Naples, Aragon and Spain. Today, marvel at the centuries-old remains of the castle, such as the imposing triumphal arch, the Palatine Chapel, and the museum that houses Neapolitan works of art.
One of the best things to do in Naples, Italy, aside from munching on pizza, is to visit the Museo Cappella Sansevero. Home to the world-renowned sculpture of the Veiled Christ, you will easily be captivated by the intricate details of this 15th century museum-chapel. Walk through its ancient halls and you’ll also see other awe-inspiring works of marble sculptures and paintings from notable Italian artists, such as the Glory of Paradise painted on the museum’s ceiling.
This spectacular 19th century public shopping gallery in Naples is something you should not skip. The high, spacious ceilings, elegant murals, mosaics and sculptures, and the glass dome roof, the architectural style of this shopping arcade is reminiscent of that of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. Just a few minutes' walk from nearby attractions such as the Royal Palace of Naples and Piazza del Plebiscito, the arcade is a perfect place for souvenir shopping and dining in quaint cafes.
Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the San Carlo Theatre is one of the most elegant and luxurious theatres in Europe and the world. The royal theatre, commissioned by King Charles III of Naples in the 17th century, has a seating capacity of 1,400 people. If you're a theatre fanatic, an experience of attending a show is a must. But if not, you can also take a guided tour inside, from the audience, as well as to the different box seats.
Below the urban city is an underground city system that holds the key to understanding the history of Naples. The Napoli Sattorrannea was built by the ancient Greeks and dates back to more than two millennia. This labyrinth of tunnels is 140 feet deep and stretches to about 240 miles. Join a tour through this fascinating underground network where you can see the ancient Romans’ water system, complete with cisterns, aqueducts, chambers and catacombs, and learn how it saved 200,000 lives in WWII.
Naples, Italy is best known for its rich, well-preserved heritage, which dates back to thousands of years in the ancient Greek period. Be fascinated by the magnificent Neo-Gothic art & architecture of the area, its spectacular natural attractions such as Mt Vesuvius and the mountainous residential quarters of Posillipo, and, of course, its delicious Neapolitan cuisine.
The best time to visit Naples, Italy is between late March to May and September to October where the weather is a little cold and not as busy as summer. The hottest month is from July to August, and the coldest is from December to February.
Best location to stay in Naples, Italy if you’re traveling with family or with your significant other is in the neighborhoods of Fuorigrotta, Posillipo, Vomero or Chiaia. However, if you want to get into the heart of Naples, you can find both upscale and budget-friendly accommodations around Fuorigrotta, Centro Storico, or Stazione Centrale where it’s near the top attractions of the city.