Top 10 Things to Do in Naples Italy
Hi there! My name is Emily and I recently traveled to Naples, Italy. I had an amazing time exploring this beautiful city and wanted to share with you my top 10 things to do while you are there. From delicious food to stunning art, Naples has something for everyone. So let’s get started!
Curiosities and Facts
- Naples is the third-largest city in Italy, after Rome and Milan.
- The city is located on the Bay of Naples, which is overlooked by Mount Vesuvius.
- Naples is known for its pizza, which is said to have originated in the city.
- The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Roman artifacts.
- Naples has a rich history and was once one of the most important cities in Europe.
1. Visit Pompeii
No trip to Naples is complete without a visit to Pompeii. This ancient Roman city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and was buried under ash and pumice for centuries. Today, you can walk through the streets of Pompeii and see the remains of houses, shops, and public buildings. It’s a fascinating experience and one that shouldn’t be missed.
I visited Pompeii on a guided tour and it was well worth it. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the city, and I learned so much from him. I highly recommend taking a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
2. Eat Pizza
As I mentioned earlier, Naples is known for its pizza. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The pizza in Naples is like nothing I have ever tasted before. The crust is thin and crispy, the sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the cheese is melted to perfection.
I tried pizza at several different restaurants while I was in Naples, but my favorite was at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. This restaurant has been around since 1870 and is famous for its pizza. The line can be long, but it’s worth the wait.
3. Explore the National Archaeological Museum of Naples
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Roman artifacts. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was once a cavalry barracks, and it’s worth a visit just to see the architecture.
Inside, you’ll find artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as sculptures, mosaics, and other works of art from ancient Rome. One of the highlights of the museum is the Farnese Collection, which includes several famous sculptures.
4. Climb Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on mainland Europe, and it’s an impressive sight. You can hike to the top of the volcano and look down into the crater. It’s a challenging hike, but the views are worth it.
I did this hike on my own, but I would recommend taking a guided tour if you’re not an experienced hiker. The trail can be steep and rocky, and it’s important to stay on the designated path.
5. Visit the Royal Palace of Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples was built in the 17th century and was the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples. Today, it’s a museum that houses works of art and historical artifacts.
I was particularly impressed by the Throne Room, which is decorated with beautiful frescoes and has a magnificent throne at the center.
6. See the Veiled Christ at the Sansevero Chapel
The Sansevero Chapel is a small chapel in the heart of Naples that is home to several works of art. The most famous of these is the Veiled Christ, a sculpture by Giuseppe Sanmartino that depicts Jesus Christ covered by a veil.
The sculpture is incredibly detailed and lifelike, and it’s hard to believe that it was carved from a single piece of marble.
7. Wander through the Historic Center
The Historic Center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s easy to see why. The narrow streets are lined with beautiful buildings and there are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
I spent an afternoon wandering through the streets of the Historic Center and it was one of my favorite experiences in Naples. I stumbled upon a small market selling fresh produce and was able to try some local fruits and vegetables.
8. Take a Day Trip to Capri
Capri is a small island off the coast of Naples and it’s a popular destination for tourists. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and stunning views.
I took a ferry from Naples to Capri and spent the day exploring the island. I visited the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with bright blue water, and took a chairlift to the top of Mount Solaro for panoramic views of the island.
9. Visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are a series of underground tombs that date back to the 2nd century AD. The tombs were used by early Christians and are decorated with frescoes and mosaics.
I found the Catacombs to be both eerie and fascinating. It’s amazing to think that these tombs have been preserved for centuries and are still accessible to visitors today.
10. Enjoy Gelato
No trip to Italy is complete without gelato, and Naples has some of the best gelato I’ve ever tasted. There are plenty of gelaterias to choose from, but my favorite was Gelateria La Romana.
The gelato at Gelateria La Romana is made fresh every day and the flavors are incredible. I tried several different flavors, but my favorite was the pistachio.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Naples?
The best time to visit Naples is between March and May or between September and November. The weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months.
Is Naples safe for tourists?
Like any city, Naples has its share of crime. However, if you take the usual precautions and stay in well-lit areas, you should be fine.
What is the currency in Naples?
The currency in Naples is the Euro.
Do I need a visa to visit Naples?
If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Naples for up to 90 days.
What is the language spoken in Naples?
The official language of Naples is Italian, but many people also speak English.
That’s it for my top 10 things to do in Naples, Italy. I hope you found this article helpful and that it inspires you to visit this beautiful city. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.