14 Things to Do in Naples, Italy (& Where to Stay) (2024)

Want to know the best areas to stay in Naples, Italy (Napoli)? Or, maybe you want to know what to do, where to go, what to eat, and what to skip. This travel guide is for you, with insider tips on visiting Naples, known as Lungomare. Pull up a chair and have a seat.

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Naples, Italy - it's history alive in old streets, and that real pizza smell. Past meets present here, uniquely. Under Mount Vesuvius' eye, it's a mix of old traditions, lively markets, street buzz. From sunny coasts to dark catacombs, every bit has a tale. Ready to dive into the historic center, eat like a king, or just bask in the Med sun? Our Naples guide's your key to this hypnotic city. So, grab your luggage and appetite – Naples is calling.

🏺 A Very Brief History of Naples

Naples started around 8th century BCE as a Greek colony, with Cumae. Its Greek roots shaped its culture, even under Roman rule. In Roman times, Naples was luxury central. Picture fancy villas, a busy port, a Roman elite hotspot.

After Rome, Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, Normans took turns ruling. Each left a cultural stamp. The Renaissance turned Naples into an art and learning hub. Come the 16th century, Spanish rule kicked off a cultural explosion. Streets buzzed with artists like Caravaggio, Bernini.

Moving to the 19th and 20th centuries, Naples saw revolutions, unification struggles, war damages, plus urban and industrial challenges. Through it all, Naples stayed tough. Today, it's a lively mix of history and hope, still dazzling with its culture and food.

🔭 Where is Naples?

Naples, or Napoli, is in southern Italy, Campania region. On the western Italian coast, about 190 kilometers southeast of Rome. Sits on the Bay of Naples' northern side. This bay stretches southeast from Cape Miseno to Campanella Point. Naples is sandwiched between two volcanic zones - Mount Vesuvius to the east and Campi Flegrei to the northwest. Vesuvius, known for its 79 AD eruption, last blew in 1944. Geographically, it's near Capri to the south, providing a partial breakwater. The city lies amidst hills stretching from Posillipo in the north to the Sorrentine peninsula in the south. It's 50 kilometers north of the Amalfi Coast, a great jump-off point for exploring the region.

🗺️ Naples, Italy Map

📆 Best Time to Visit Naples

Visiting Naples? Timing is key. Here's what each season offers:

🌱 Spring (April-May):

Best time to go. Weather's nice, tourists are few. Hotels are cheaper too.

🌞 Summer (June-August):

It's hot and packed. Starts comfy in June, but July and August hit highs around 31°C. Less rain, but locals are on holiday, so some places close. Streets are alive, with lots of festivals.

🍂 Autumn (September-October):

Like spring, September's great. Fewer tourists, still warm for outdoor stuff. October gets rainier - bring an umbrella.

🌧️ Winter (November-February):

Mild but rainy, especially in November. Christmas and New Year's bring a festive vibe. Less crowded, except for December.

🎄Christmas in Naples, Italy

Speaking of Christmas in Naples...it's lively and tradition-packed:

🛩️ How to Get to Naples:

If you're already in and around Europe, you definitely need to check out WayAway for killer deals on airline tickets. Check the chart below for the latest prices:

Airport Access: Naples International's 15 minutes from downtown. Bus and taxi services available, easy for travelers.

📇 Naples Travel Resources

Here's my list of top travel resources. Some I've road-tested myself, others come recommended by fellow travelers and nomad friends. All are tried and true.

🚌 How to Get Around Naples

Getting around Naples? Here's the scoop:

Public Transport: Buses, metro, funiculars. Cheap, covers the city and outskirts.

Metro: Two lines. Line 1's artsy, runs from Piazza Garibaldi to Piscinola. Line 2 connects Pozzuoli and San Giovanni a Teduccio. Tickets are budget-friendly.

Funiculars: Hit the hills with four lines - Funicolare Centrale, Mergellina, Chiaia, Montesanto. Unique way to see the city.

Buses: They link downtown to suburbs and other cities. Main hub's Piazza Garibaldi. From the airport, take the Alibus to the center or Beverello port.

Cars and Taxis: Driving's tough, parking's worse. Taxis work well, have set fares. Good for quick city trips.

⛴️ The Ferries in Naples:

Naples Ferry Port:

• Molo Beverello, in the city center, handles cruises and ferries.
• Nearby hotels, serviced by local buses.
• Alibus links the port with Naples Airport and Central Station.
• Walking distance to the historic center.

Ferry Services:

• Connects Naples to islands like Capri, Ischia, and coastal Sorrento.
• Multiple companies operate.
• Fast hydrofoils to Capri or Ischia take about an hour.
• Frequent services, short waits.

Booking Tickets:

• Buy at the port or online.
• Operators include Alilauro, Caremar, Gescab, NLG, Medmar.

Main Routes and Companies:

• Naples to Ischia: Medmar, SNAV, Alilauro, Caremar.
• 3 daily sailings, about 1.5 hours.
• Naples to Capri: Alilauro. 11 daily sailings, 50 minutes.
• Naples to Lipari: SNAV, Siremar. 7 weekly, about 6.5 hours.
• Naples to Panarea: SNAV, Siremar. 7 weekly, around 5 hours.
• Other routes to Ponza, Salina, Stromboli, Ventotene vary in frequency and duration.

Visitor Tips:

• Close to Amalfi Coast, Pompeii.
• Beautiful beaches like Gaiola, Miliscola, Lo Scoglione di Marechiaro, Bagno Elena, Baia delle Rocce Verdi, Castello di Baia, Acquamorta, and Schiacchetiello.

Extra Info:

• Check Naples Bay Ferry for current schedules.
• Direct Ferries for detailed routes and company info.

🛂 2024 Naples Travel Essentials: Visas and Currency

Here's what you need to know:

Visa Stuff:

• U.S. Citizens: No visa needed for 90-day tourist or business trips until 2025. ETIAS starts then.
• Everyone else: Valid passport, get it stamped in the first Schengen country you enter. Staying over 90 days? Declare it.

Current Italy Scene:

• Post-COVID: Italy's pretty much back to normal. Masks aren't common. Bars, restaurants, clubs, museums, markets - all open.
• Public transport and some indoor places might need masks. Carry one just in case.

Money:

• Italy uses Euros. Cash is handy for small buys, but cards work almost everywhere.

Other Musts:

• Passport should be valid for 6 months after leaving Italy and have two blank pages.
• Know local customs and your home country's travel advisories on Italy.

Travel Tips:

• Always have your ID and travel papers on you.
• Respect local laws and customs.
• Stay updated on travel requirements and local health and safety rules.
• Before you go, check your country's foreign affairs or travel advisories for the latest info.

🧳 What to Wear in Naples, Italy

Pack smart for the climate and local style. Here's a quick guide:

General Must-Haves:

• Pashmina: For cool evenings, church visits.
• Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers for city walks, Pompeii. Summer? Sandals with arch support, but skip open-toes for city.
• Cross-Body Bag: Secure your stuff in crowds.

Summer (June to August):

• Lightweight Clothes: Stay cool.
• Swimwear: Beach or boat trips need at least two.
• Beach Cover, Sun Hat: For beaches, boardwalk strolls.
• Flip Flops/Water Shoes: Beach only, not city.

Spring (March to May) & Fall (September to November):

• Cardigan/Sweater: Evenings can get cool.
• Light Jacket: Useful in March and late fall.
• Jeans/Long Pants: Cooler weather calls for them.

Winter (December to February):

• Warm, Waterproof Jacket: Cold, maybe rainy.
• Layer Up: Cardigans, sweaters, hoodies, long-sleeve tops.
• Heavy Trousers/Jeans: Stay warm.

Fashion Tips:

• Naples is more "hip" than "chic."
• Black Clothing: Versatile, multi-occasion dress.
• Statement Accessories: Necklaces, bracelets boost simple outfits.
• Jeans: Trendy, day-to-night. Pair with nice top or jacket for evenings.
• Footwear: Flats or runners for Naples' streets.

🇮🇹 Essential Italian Phrases

Here are some totally essential Italian phrases for travelers, including their transliterations, which will be super helpful during your visit to Italy:

🙋🏼‍♂️ Local Customs and Etiquette in Naples, Italy

Here's the lowdown on Naples' customs and etiquette:

🏩 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Naples, Italy

If you're gonna stay overnight or for extended period of time in Naples, then you definitely need to browse through Booking.com. Check it for deals, specials, photos, and real reviews!

As far as the neighborhood situation in the city goes, the following are some of the best areas to stay:

🛎️ The Best Places to Stay in Naples, Italy

Here are hotel options for every wallet:

Luxury Hotels:

• Scugnizzo Apartment Luxury Home: Beachfront, sustainable, with sea views, spa, wellness center, sun terrace.
• [Centro Storico] Luxury Suites: 2.7 km from Mappatella Beach. Has a bar, allergy-free rooms. Parking costs extra.
• Toto e Peppino Luxury Rooms: Near the Archeological Museum and MUSA. Offers airport transfers, bike rentals.
• South Hands Luxury Rooms: In the Port of Naples district. Near Maschio Angioino, San Carlo Theatre. Accessible for disabled guests.
• Relais Della Porta: Shared lounge, close to San Carlo Theatre.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• UNAHOTELS Napoli: Grand, historic, central. 5 minutes from Naples Central Station.
• Decumani Hotel De Charme: In a historic building in Naples' historic center.
• Hotel Royal Continental: Great views, popular among guests.
• Eurostars Hotel Excelsior: On Lungomare Caracciolo, excellent reviews.
• Exe Majestic: In Chiaia, known for good service, comfort.

Budget Hotels:

• NAP Hostel Spaccanapoli: Garden, parking, shared lounge, bar, free WiFi.
• Tric Trac Hostel: Air-conditioned rooms, shared lounge, free WiFi, terrace.
• Casa Pacifico Napoli: Central, express check-in/out, private parking.
• MAIN - Municipio: Sustainable B&B with spa, allergy-free rooms.
• Relais Della Porta: Budget-friendly, shared lounge, near attractions.

🏰 Must-See Historical Sites in Naples

Historic Centre

Naples' Historic Centre is history-rich, culture-packed. A UNESCO site since 1995.

Here's the lowdown: The Greeks started it as Neapolis in 470 B.C. Old streets and buildings against the Bay of Naples. Big in spreading Greek culture to Rome. Later, a major Roman hub. Influenced by Byzantines, Normans, and more.

From Greek and Roman to Gothic and Baroque. Santa Chiara, Castel Nuovo, Royal Palace are standouts. For its cultural and historical value, the center covers 1021 hectares, filled with diverse districts.

Decumani and Greek Roads: Three main east-west Decumani cut by vertical streets. It's an ancient Greek checkerboard layout.

Grew upwards in medieval times. Spanish Viceroyalty in the 16th century sparked big growth, think Castel Nuovo. 18th century, Naples hits its stride as a European capital. Buildings like Reggia di Capodimonte pop up.

Places like Montecalvario and San Giuseppe, each with their own vibe, churches, landmarks. Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Norman, Angevin, Aragonese, Bourbon influences mix here.

Tourist Draws: It's packed with ancient churches, basilicas, archaeological spots, and artisan workshops.

Castel dell'Ovo

Castel dell'Ovo in Naples is ancient and full of stories: Built on Megaride island. The Greeks from Cumae founded Naples here in the 6th century BC. Roman Lucius Licinius Lucullus later built part of his villa here.

Fortified in the 5th century by Valentinian III. Normans built the first castle in the 12th century. It's been a royal seat, treasury, prison. Got its current look in the 15th century. Changed a lot since, including damage in the Italian Wars and its use against the Bourbons in 1799.

Modern Times: A fishing village, Borgo Marinaro, grew around it in the 19th century. Now it's got a marina, restaurants, hosts events. It's rectangular with a high bastion, dock area, and a big round tower. Rooms like Sala Italia and Sala Sirena are mostly closed off, except for events. Used for weddings, business meetings.

The Magical Egg Legend: Named for a legend about Virgil hiding a protective egg in the dungeon. Naples' safety was tied to it.

Visiting: It's on Via Partenope, with great Gulf of Naples views. Best in spring, summer, early evening.

Catacombs of Naples

The Catacombs of San Gennaro in Naples are a deep dive into early Christian burial and art: They date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. Used for Neapolitan bishops' burials, including Bishop Quodvoltdeus. Suffered looting from the 13th to 18th centuries, restored after remains were moved. Sheltered locals during WWII, reopened in 1969, excavations in 1971.

Known for stunning frescoes. The Lower Chamber has 4th-century pieces like the Peaco*ck and Plant of the Vine. The Upper Chamber, from the 3rd century, shows Christ Pantocrator and highlights early Christian women's roles.

Has loculi, arcosoli, pits, tuff and marble sarcophagi. About 200 oil lamps found, showing trade routes and users. San Gaudioso features wall sepulchres and 5th-6th century art. San Severo, smaller, was a memorial for Bishop Severo.

Modern Management: "La Paranza" cooperative, formed by local youth, manages them. They're key in recovery and upkeep.

🖼️ Notable Museums in Naples

Naples, Italy, is packed with museums for all tastes:

National Archaeological Museum (MANN): Huge antiquities collection, especially from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Farnese Collection and erotic art from Pompeii are big draws. Third-largest Egyptian collection in Italy.

Royal Palace of Naples: In Mergellina, it's a historic site and art gallery. Features works by Tiziano, Luca Giordano, and the national library Vittorio Emanuele III.

Capodimonte National Museum: Among Europe's top art galleries. Houses Caravaggio, Raffaello, Tiziano, Botticelli.

Museo Nazionale di San Martino: On Vomero hill, it's got a church, cloisters, religious structures, sculptures, and paintings from different periods.

Zevallos Palace Art Gallery: On via Toledo. About 120 pieces, including 17th-century Neapolitan paintings and 20th-century graphic arts. Famous for Caravaggio's "Il Martirio di Sant'Orsola."

Madre Museum of Naples: Contemporary art in the city center. Artworks from around the globe.

Sansevero Chapel Museum: In the old town. Famous for the Cristo Velato by Giuseppe Sanmartino, plus other masterpieces.

Pietrarsa National Railway Museum: Covers Italian railway history, between Naples, Portici, and San Giorgio a Cremano.

👩🏻‍🏫 The Best Tours in Naples, Italy

There are so many terrific tours in Naples. Check out a few of our favorites:

Naples Panoramic Walking Tour: Check out Vomero, San Martino hill, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele. You get awesome city and sea views, plus the historic center's lively streets.

Naples Underground Walking Tour: It's a trip through ancient tunnels, galleries, aqueducts. You really get the city's history.

Naples Street Food Tour: Hit the central market and old food shops. Taste traditional Neapolitan treats.

Naples Traditional Neapolitan Pizza Workshop: Learn pizza-making at a top restaurant. From dough to wood-fired oven cooking.

Naples Street Art & Folklore Walking Tour: Explore the Spanish Quarter. It's full of Naples' soul, local life, and old traditions.

☠️ 14 Unusual Things to Do in Naples, Italy

Check out these spots in Naples that blend history, culture, and quirk, perfect for off-the-beaten-path explorers.

⚽ Go See Napoli Play Soccer (Calcio)!

Planning to catch SSC Napoli play in Naples? Here's your quick guide:

Team History:

• SSC Napoli started in 1926. First big win was Coppa Italia in 1962.
• Diego Maradona's 1984 arrival was huge. Led to Serie A wins in 1987, 1990, and UEFA Cup in 1989.
• Post-Maradona, faced tough times, but Aurelio De Laurentiis rebooted it in 2004.

Stadium:

• They play at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Fuorigrotta. Formerly Stadio San Paolo, it seats over 54,000.

Getting There:

• Metro Line 2 to Campi Flegrei station is easiest.
• Buses 140, 142, 143 also work. Taxis are an option, but match days get busy.

Ticket Tips:

• Buy online via the club site or at the stadium.
• Prices vary. Derbies sell out fast, so buy early.

Best Seats:

• Curva section for energy and atmosphere.
• Tribuna Posillipo and Tribuna Nisida for comfort and views.

Food and Drink:

• Stadium has snacks like panino con la porchetta.
• Eating in the city center before or after the game could be cheaper.

Stadium Extras:

• Tours and a museum with Napoli memorabilia, including Maradona's shirt.
• Book ahead, especially in tourist season.

Soccer Season:

• Serie A runs August to May, weekends and some midweek games.
• Check SSC Napoli's site for schedule, tickets, news.

Remember, a Napoli match is more than a game there, for many it's life!

🕺🏽Naples Italy's Best Nightlife Spots

Naples' nightlife's got variety. Here are some cool spots:

Swig Chiaia: Fancy area, known for its co*cktails and vibe. Neon signs, big dance floor. Perfect for capping off bar-hopping.

Spazio Intelab: Old factory, near Lanificio club. Art and music fans' hangout. Exhibitions, concerts, top DJs.

Pepi Vintage Room: Rustic, vintage bar. Great for a quick drink or chilling in the evening. Lively, friendly, awesome co*cktails.

Gran Caffè Gambrinus: Over 180 years old. Hangout for intellectuals and politicians. Known for coffee, pastries, drinks. Elegant place.

🎆 Must-Experience Festivals and Events in Naples

Naples has a feast of cultural and music festivals. Here's what you can't miss:

Shopping in Naples? Here's where to hit:

🏖️ Guide to Naples Italy Beaches

Thinking about going to the beach in Naples? Here's the scoop:

• Palazzo Donn’Anna: In Posillipo, trendy but packed in summer. Narrow alleys, so watch it if you're driving.
• Salotto La Veronica: Between Bagnoli and Pozzuoli. Great for night drinks, afternoon aperitifs. Sun solarium, showers, bars, restaurants.
• Lido Virgilio: Near Miseno and Miliscola. Sandy, good parking. Bars, restaurants, snacks.
• Lucrino: Near Pozzuoli. Mix of free and private beaches, cheap stays, nightlife hotspot.
• Bacoli: Close to Lucrino. Affordable beach clubs and the historical "Casina Vanvitelliana".
• Mergellina and Posillipo: Central beaches like Lido Mappatella for sheltered swimming. Bagno Elena has umbrellas, sunbeds, great restaurants.
• Lido di Procida: On Procida island. Sandy, wide, perfect for sunsets. Beach day plus island vibe.
• Spiaggia Dei Pescatori: “Fisherman’s beach” on Forio Island. Seafood lovers' dream, stunning views.
• Gaiola Beach: In a marine area, great for scuba diving, underwater ruins. Book ahead.
• Riva Fiorita: Free, lively. Sports like jet skiing, fishing. No food, so pack lunch.
• Baia delle Rocce Verdi: In Marechiaro, naturally beautiful, great for photos, romantic.
• Scoglione di Marechiaro: Rock beach, free entry, serene for swimming.
• Laso di Lara, Sorrento: Natural, sandy, minutes from Piazza Tasso in Sorrento.
• Spiaggia del Duoglio, Amalfi: Clean, turquoise waters. Boat, canoe rentals. Near Amalfi city.

🏞️ Naples, Italy Parks and Recreational areas

Looking to hike? Downshift? Enjoy nature? Then check out these Naples' parks and recreational areas. Here's the rundown:

• Real Bosco di Capodimonte: Big green space in front of Capodimonte Palace. Was a royal hunting spot. Has an English garden, historical buildings, and city views.
• Virgilian Park: In upscale Posillipo. Panoramic views of the Gulf and islands. Play areas, track, kiosks.
• Floridiana: In Vomero, surrounding Villa Floridiana, home to the Ceramics Museum. Cool paths, a camellia thicket, lawns, Gulf views.
• Park of the Camaldoli: Naples' highest hill. Great city views, hosts events and markets in summer.
• Astroni Nature Reserve: A WWF Oasis in Campi Flegrei. Three lakes, dense vegetation, wildlife, guided tours.
• Botanical Garden of Naples: Near Piazza Carlo III. 37 acres, 9000 plant species, rare trees, a natural history museum.
• Vesuvius National Park: Around active Mount Vesuvius. Rich biodiversity, 900 plant species, wildlife. Hiking trails, nature views.
• Villa Comunale of Naples: Mile-long garden in Chiaia. Once royal-only, opened in 1869. Ideal for strolls, separates Riviera di Chiaia from the seafront.

🍝 Naples' Food Culture:

Naples, Italy, and its food? Here's the rundown:

🍽️ The Best Restaurants in Naples Italy

My Favorite!:

Trattoria da Nennella: Classic Neapolitan spot. Big portions, tasty food, wallet-friendly. Perfect for budget travelers. Go for the eggplant parmesan, seafood pasta. Got a 3-course meal for 13 euros in 2023!

Here are five more of our favorite, top-notch restaurants in Naples:

1. La Locanda Gesù Vecchio Civico 4: Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Good wine, service, and vibe.
2. Pizzeria Augusteo: Pizza fans love it. Known for authentic, tasty Italian pizza.
3. OWAP Pizzeria Pignasecca: Another pizza gem. Rated as one of Naples' best.
4. Volta: Mixes Italian and Mediterranean. It's a bar with a great atmosphere and quality food.
5. Tavernetta Colauri: Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Delightful dining with a diverse menu.

🍕 Naples Best Pizzerias

Planning a pizza tour in Naples? Check out these places we recommend for you:

The #1 Best Pizzeria in Naples:

Pizzeria Da Michele (It's the famous pizza restaurant featured in the movie "Eat Pray Love") Stellar pizza. Only 5 euros for a Margherita or Marinara. Huge portions, pizza's outstanding.

Also, be sure to check out these other six great pizzerias!:

1. 50 Kaló: Quality ingredients, bit pricier. Locals love it for the wine and pizza selection.
2. Sorbillo: Expect long lines, but it's worth it. Classic Margheritas and creative variants.
3. Starita: No-frills, always packed. Known for pizze montanara with fluffy fried dough.
4. Pizzeria Oliva da Carla e Salvatore: Local couple-run spot. Inventive pizzas, welcoming vibe.
5. La Masardona: Best-fried pizza in Italy. Light, crispy dough with hot ricotta, tomato ragù.
6. Ristorante Mattozzi: More than pizza. Excellent pasta, seafood. Pizza's top-notch.

🍨 The Best Gelato in Naples, Italy

Naples has one of the best gelato scenes in the world!

Here's the scoop:

• Casa Infante: A chain with various Naples spots. Traditional sweets and gelato. Their lemon sorbet is a standout.
• Gelateria Valenti: On Via dei Tribunali. Modern, natural ingredients. Try their mascarpone and fig gelato, passion fruit sorbet.

• Mozzelato: Via San Biagio Dei Librai. Artisanal with a twist. Their "Mozzelatte" mozzarella gelato mixes creaminess and sweetness.
• Mennella: Since 1969. Family-run, traditional approach. Lemon sorbet, chocolate fondant gelato. Vegan-friendly sorbet options too.
• Gelateria Soave: Since 1950 in Vomero. Artisanal gelato from local ingredients. Refreshing lemon, exotic mango, passion fruit flavors.

☕ The Best Coffee in Naples

Looking for a sip of Naples' coffee scene? Here's where we recommend for you to go:

• Gran Caffe' Ciorfito: Great cappuccinos and sweets. Friendly service, reasonable prices. Ideal for espresso and pastries.
• Bar Pasticceria Tiffany: In Casalnuovo di Napoli. Go for babha rum, almond cookies. Worth the trip from central Naples.

• Centrale del Caffè: In Naples' historic center. Authentic Italian coffee experience.
• Bar Mexico: Naples coffee staple. Known for quality coffee. Great for a break near Napoli Centrale.
• Ceraldi Caffe': Cozy spot for a late afternoon drink. Dive into local coffee culture.
• Augustus Napoli: Sets a standard. Good location, delicious coffee and sweets.

Day Trip From Naples to Capri

Heading to Capri from Naples? Take a tour. Or, if you want to go solo, you'll need to book a ferry. NLG and SNAV run them. Choose slow for chill vibes, fast or hydrofoil for speed. It's bumpier, though. Ferries leave from Molo Beverello (fast ones) and Calata di Massa (all kinds). Hydrofoil takes 40 minutes, slow ferry 1.5 hours. Costs start at €23.50. Or, grab a boat tour from Naples. They pick you up and guide you around, hitting spots like the Blue Grotto.

In Capri, start early. Hit the Piazzetta for coffee. Check out the Clock Tower and Church of Santo Stefano. Browse the upscale district. For killer views, go to Belvedere di Tragara. Overlooks the Faraglioni Rocks.

Summer? Hit Marina Piccola beach. Other times? Try Certosa di San Giacomo and Gardens of Augustus. Don't skip Anacapri. Quieter, with a chairlift to Monte Solaro. Blue Grotto's there too. Eat local seafood. It's good but pricey.

Tips: Book ferries early in summer. Capri's not cheap. Keep that in mind. No cars allowed for non-residents from Easter to November. Early ferries get packed. Show up on time.

Day Trip From Naples to Pompei

Naples to Pompeii, you have several choices. You can go on a guided tour like the one below:

By Train:

• Circumvesuviana Train: Leaves Napoli Piazza Garibaldi, 35 minutes to Pompeii Scavi, near the site. Trains every 15 minutes, gets crowded, €3 ticket.
• Metropolitan Line: To 'Pompei' station, then a 10-minute walk. Good with luggage or overnight stay.

By Bus:

• SITA bus: Slower than train, about 40 minutes. Hourly buses in high season from Nuova Marina port.

By Car:

• Takes about 30 minutes. Tough driving, parking's a hassle.

Visiting Tips:

• Buy Tickets Online: Skip queues, €16,
• valid all day.
• guided Tours: For more history, consider a guide.
• Arrive Early: Beat the crowds.
• Weather Prep: Hot in summer. Sunscreen, hat, water. Refill at site fountains.
• Shoes: Comfortable for uneven terrain.

Pompeii Hours:

• Summer: 9 AM - 7:30 PM, weekends from 8:30 AM. Last entrance at 6 PM.
• Winter: 9 AM - 5 PM, ticket office closes at 3:30 PM.
• Closed: Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25.

Visit Duration: Plan for 3-4 hours to explore Pompeii, not counting travel from Naples.

Day Trip From Naples to Sorrento

Traveling from Naples to Sorrento, you've got options. Let's break it down.

Guided Tours: These guys do it all. They'll take you to Sorrento, around Naples, even to spots like Positano and Amalfi.

Trains: You can hop on the Circumvesuviana. Cheap, but packed. Takes 70 minutes. Or try the Campania Express. Less crowded, 45 minutes, but less frequent. Plan ahead.

Ferries: They leave from Molo Beverello in Naples. It's a 45-minute ride. Costs about 15 bucks. The view's great.

Cars: Driving's quick, under an hour. But summer roads are tight and twisty.

Buses: Like Flixbus, they'll get you there in 1 hour 35 minutes.

In Sorrento

• Check out the Historic Center. Piazza Tasso and the cathedral are must-sees. Don't miss the alleyways.
• Museums: Hit the Museum Correale and the Georges Vallet Archaeological Museum. You'll get your history and art fix.
• Piazza Tasso: This main square has a Saint Anthony statue. Good place to start exploring.
• Corso Italia: Shop here. It's the main street, always busy.
• Beach Clubs: Chill at Marina Grande.
• Hiking: There are trails around Sorrento. Great views, cool small towns.

Best time to visit? Spring, late March to mid-June. Lemons are blooming, weather's mild. Or try October. Fewer tourists, wine festivals, but a bit chilly some days.

Heading back to Naples? Watch the ferry schedule. Last one leaves Sorrento around 6:45 PM.

Day Trip From Naples to Milan

Planning Naples to Milan for a day? Here's the drill:

Travel Time: It's a 3 to 3.5-hour fast train ride. Plan your day around this.

Suggested Itinerary: With limited time, hit Milan's top spots – Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle.

Weather: Check it. Lake Como in March? Maybe not for swimming, but still lovely.

Maximize Time: Arrive early in Milan, have a plan. Focus on what interests you most.

Alternatives: Milan too far? Try closer spots like Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Capri.

Local Must-Dos: In Milan, taste local food, shop in the fashion district, maybe catch a La Scala show.

Prep Well: Get all travel docs, train tickets beforehand. Avoid last-minute hassles.

Tip: A day trip's tight. Consider overnight in Milan to really soak it up.

Day Trip From Naples to Florence

If you want to take a day trip from Naples to Florence here's how to do it:

Trains are the best way from Naples to Florence. It takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes. The high-speed trains are comfy and start at $25. They run from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Driving takes 5 hours, but Florence's center is a hassle for parking.

Stop at Montecassino Abbey. It's historic with great views. Siena's medieval buildings are a must-see. Arezzo has amazing churches with frescoes.

In Florence, hit the Uffizi Gallery. It's packed with famous art. Don't miss Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia.

For hotels, try St. Regis or Hotel Brunelleschi. They're fancy and well-located.

Book your train and tours early. It's busy. Pack light, but bring a camera, comfy shoes, and water. Try Tuscan food in Florence – it's delicious.

🚓 Is Naples Italy Safe?

Naples, Italy, safe but watch it like any big city. Here's your safety rundown:

Safe Spots:

• Centro Storico: Busy UNESCO site. Watch for pickpockets.
• Chiaia: Upscale, artsy, quieter, safer.
• Vomero: Pricier, luxury, more secure. CCTV around.

Be Careful Here:

• Museo and Garibaldi Square: Sketchy at night. Guard your stuff.
• Spaccanapoli: Pickpockets, scams.
• Garibaldi Station: Dodgy, especially side streets, dark alleys.
• Forcella: Daytime's okay, night attracts trouble.

Safety Tips:

• Avoid Secluded Spots: Stick to populated, family-friendly areas.
• Secure Valuables: Hotel safe for the win, carry only what you need.
• Watch Out on Public Transport: Common pickpocket zone.
• Taxi Scams: Use official, metered city cabs.
• Change Check: Keep tabs on your cash transactions.
• No to Street Gifts: Firmly refuse "free" stuff.
• Be Sharp at Night: Know your way home.
• Drink Smart: Eye on your drink always.
• Basic Italian Helps: 'Per favore', 'Grazie'.

Emergency Numbers:

• General: 113 in Italy, 112 in Europe.
• Ambulance: 118.
• US Embassy Rome: +39 06 46741.

Extra Tips:

• Naples isn't high crime, but traffic's wild.
• Rich in culture, history, architecture, food.
• Stay smart, you'll enjoy Naples safely.

📖 Books and Literature About Naples

Want some fantastic Naples-themed read recommendations? Here's our list:

• "The Gold of Naples" by Giuseppe Marotta: Captures Naples' essence. History, culture, daily life. A vivid love letter to the city.
• "The House by the Medlar Tree" by Giovanni Verga: Set in Naples. Focuses on the Salina family. Shows the city's life complexities.
• Between Salt Water and Holy Water" by Tommaso Astarita: Scholarly look at southern Italy's history, including Naples. Deep dive into its cultural impact.
• "My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante: Part of a four-book saga. Two women's friendship in 1950s Naples. Insight into that era's challenges.
• "Only in Naples" by Katherine Wilson: An American's love story with Naples. Mixes personal tales with Neapolitan life, food, and love.
• "The Temptation to Be Happy" by Lorenzo Marone: About Cesare Annunziata, a widower in Naples. Life changes with new neighbors. Modern Naples, loneliness, family.
• "The Talented Mr. Ripley" by Patricia Highsmith: Psychological thriller near Naples. Dark narrative, Mediterranean setting.
• "Street Fight in Naples" by Peter Robb: Covers 3000 years of Neapolitan life and art. From ancient to modern times, cultural highlights.
• "Gomorrah" by Roberto Saviano: Investigates Naples' Camorra crime organization. Mixes prose and reporting. Shows organized crime's city impact.

🇮🇹 Explore More About Italy!

If this taste of Naples stirred your soul, wait till you check out these other Italian gems -'Buon Viaggio'!

• Quadrilatero Bologna: From Medieval Streets to Modern Eats
• Gole dell'Alcantara: Sicily's Spectacular Natural Phenomenon
• The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Catania
• Our Picks for the Best Carbonara in Rome
• Discover Filicudi: The Sicilian Island Time Forgot
• Slow Travel Italy: Find Your Bliss in the Art of Enjoying Life
• The Top-Rated Palermo Beaches: Your Ultimate Guide