Top 10 Things to Do in Naples – Your Ultimate Guide
Hi there! My name is Emily and I’m a travel enthusiast. I recently visited Naples and I fell in love with this beautiful city. In this article, I’m going to share with you my top 10 things to do in Naples based on my personal experience. So, let’s get started!
Curiosities and Interesting Information
- Naples is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan.
- It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back more than 2,800 years.
- Naples is famous for its pizza, which is considered the best in the world by many people.
- The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks.
- Naples is located on the Bay of Naples, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
1. Visit Pompeii
If you’re interested in history, a visit to Pompeii is a must. 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, Pompeii is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I did a guided tour of Pompeii and it was fascinating to learn about the daily life of the ancient Romans. I highly recommend hiring a guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of this unique site.
2. Explore the Historic Center
The historic center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Royal Palace of Naples, the San Carlo Theatre, and the Castel dell’Ovo.
Walking through the narrow streets of the historic center is like stepping back in time. You’ll find charming piazzas, colorful buildings, and hidden gems around every corner. I suggest taking a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the history and beauty of this area.
3. Eat Pizza
You can’t visit Naples without trying its famous pizza. Neapolitan pizza is different from any other pizza you’ve ever had – it’s made with fresh, local ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The most famous pizzeria in Naples is Da Michele, which has been serving pizza since 1870.
I tried pizza at several places in Naples, and I have to say that Da Michele is worth the hype. The pizza is simple but delicious, and the atmosphere is lively and fun.
4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most important museums in Italy and is home to an extensive collection of ancient Roman artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes.
I spent an entire afternoon at the museum and was amazed by the wealth of history and art on display. If you’re interested in ancient history, this museum should be on your list.
5. Climb Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano on mainland Europe and is responsible for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. Today, it’s a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
I did a guided hike to the summit of Mount Vesuvius and the views were breathtaking. It’s a challenging hike, but the reward is worth it.
6. Visit the Capodimonte Museum
The Capodimonte Museum is home to one of the most important art collections in Italy, with works by Caravaggio, Titian, and Raphael, among others.
I’m a big fan of Renaissance art, so I was thrilled to visit this museum. The collection is extensive and beautifully displayed, and the building itself is a work of art.
7. Take a Walk along the Lungomare
The Lungomare is a scenic promenade that runs along the Bay of Naples, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.
I took a leisurely walk along the Lungomare on a sunny afternoon and it was one of the highlights of my trip. There are several cafes and restaurants along the way where you can stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
8. Visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro
The Catacombs of San Gennaro are a network of underground tombs and passageways that date back to the second century AD. They’re named after Saint Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples.
I found the catacombs to be fascinating and a bit eerie. It’s a unique experience to explore the underground tunnels and see the ancient tombs.
9. Take a Day Trip to Capri
Capri is a small island off the coast of Naples and is known for its natural beauty and glamorous lifestyle.
I took a ferry to Capri and spent the day exploring the island. The highlight for me was the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with crystal-clear blue water.
10. Visit the Royal Palace of Caserta
The Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent palace that was built in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples. It’s often compared to the Palace of Versailles in France.
I took a guided tour of the palace and was blown away by the opulence and grandeur of the building. The gardens are also worth exploring.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Naples?
The best time to visit Naples is from April to June and from September to November, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Is Naples safe for tourists?
Like any big city, Naples has its share of crime and you should take precautions to stay safe. However, I felt safe during my visit and didn’t encounter any problems.
What is the currency used in Naples?
The currency used in Naples is the euro.
Do I need to speak Italian to visit Naples?
While it’s always helpful to know some basic Italian, you can get by with English in most tourist areas.
What is the best way to get around Naples?
The best way to get around Naples is by public transportation, including buses and the metro. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.
That’s it for my top 10 things to do in Naples. I hope you found this article helpful and that it inspires you to visit this beautiful city. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy travels!