Naples is a city of striking contrasts and undeniable charm!
As someone who’s wandered its narrow streets and soaked in its vibrant culture multiple times, I can tell you there’s nowhere quite like Napoli.
This ancient city, with its UNESCO-listed historic center, world-famous cuisine, and dramatic backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, offers an authentic Italian experience you won’t find in the more polished tourist destinations up north.
By this article you will know about 22 popular things to do in Naples.
Naples Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Naples houses the world’s finest collection of Pompeian artifacts, including mosaics and the “secret cabinet” of erotic art.
When planning things to do in Naples, this museum should be at the top of your list
Located in the historic center at Piazza Museo 19, it’s easily reached via Metro Line 1 (Museo stop).
Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Open 9am-7:30pm (closed Tuesdays), tickets cost €15.
My personal tip? Rent the audio guide – it’s worth every euro! I once spent three hours here and still didn’t see everything. The Farnese collection on the ground floor is often overlooked but contains some of the most impressive classical sculptures I’ve ever seen.
Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples)
This fascinating underground network of Greek-Roman aqueducts, tunnels, and cisterns lies 40 meters below Naples’ streets.
Located in the historic center, tours begin at Piazza San Gaetano 68.
Early afternoon tours are less crowded, except during summer when mornings are better.
Tours run daily from 10am-6pm, cost €12, and last about 90 minutes.
The narrow passages aren’t for the claustrophobic (I had a moment of panic!), but seeing ancient graffiti by lamplight and the remains of a Greco-Roman theater makes it absolutely worth it.
Among unique things to do in Naples, exploring this subterranean world offers insight into the city’s layered history.
Historic Center (Centro Storico)
Naples’ UNESCO World Heritage historic center is a labyrinth of narrow streets, baroque churches, and vibrant local life spanning 2,500 years of history.
It stretches from Via Toledo to Via Duomo and from Corso Umberto to Via Foria.
Walking through these ancient pathways is one of the essential things to do in Naples for first-time visitors.
Don’t follow Google Maps too strictly here! I got wonderfully lost on my second visit and discovered an incredible tiny bakery where an elderly woman gave me freshly baked sfogliatelle.
The best experiences happen when you put away your phone and follow your curiosity down that intriguing side street.
Castel dell’Ovo
Naples’ oldest castle sits on a small island connected to the mainland, offering panoramic views across the Bay of Naples.
Located on the seafront at Via Eldorado 3 in the Santa Lucia district. Visit at sunset for breathtaking views and golden light perfect for photos.
Open daily 9am-6:30pm with free entry to the castle grounds (special exhibitions may have fees).
I almost didn’t climb to the top level on my visit because I was tired from walking all day – thankfully my travel buddy pushed me to continue because the 360-degree views from up there completely changed my perspective of Naples’ layout and geography!
Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica)
This impressive underground engineering feat was built in 1853 as an escape route for the royal family but later served as a WWII bomb shelter.
Located near Piazza del Plebiscito at Vico del Grottone 4. The 10:30am tour is ideal as it’s less crowded.
When researching lesser-known things to do in Naples, this hidden passage often gets overlooked.
Tours run Friday-Sunday, cost €10-15 depending on the route, and advance booking is recommended.
The standard tour is fascinating, but if you can, splurge for the adventure route with hardhats!
I was blown away by the vintage cars and motorcycles abandoned underground, plus remnants of people’s lives during WWII bombing raids. This hidden history gives you a completely different understanding of Naples during wartime.
Neapolitan Pizza Workshop
Learn to make authentic Neapolitan pizza from master pizzaioli in the birthplace of this world-famous dish.
Of all culinary things to do in Naples, this hands-on experience creates the most lasting memories.
Several cooking schools offer workshops throughout the city center, with Pizza University & Culinary Arts Center being excellent.
Morning classes are best as you’ll be less rushed.
Workshops typically last 3 hours, cost €50-80, and include eating your creations!
Book at least 3-4 days in advance.
My hands were shaking when the instructor watched me stretch my dough – I tore my first attempt! But he patiently showed me the proper technique. The secret tip I learned? The dough temperature matters more than any other factor for perfect Neapolitan pizza!
Street Food in Quartieri Spagnoli
The Spanish Quarters offer the city’s best street food scene, with tiny shops selling everything from pizza fritta to cuoppo (fried seafood in paper cones).
This vibrant neighborhood is located just off Via Toledo between Via Sant’Anna di Palazzo and Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
Visit around 11am when everything is freshly made but before the local lunch rush. Expect to spend €3-8 per item. Bring cash as many small vendors don’t accept cards.
I stumbled upon the best arancini of my life here when I followed a crowd of locals to a tiny shop with no sign.
For budget-friendly things to do in Naples, exploring this neighborhood’s culinary offerings is unbeatable.
The owner kept giving me free samples of everything! When you see locals queueing, join them – they always know where the good stuff is.
Pignasecca Market
When listing authentic things to do in Naples, visiting a traditional market provides genuine cultural immersion.
Naples’ oldest street market buzzes with energy as vendors sell everything from fresh seafood to household goods.
Located along Via Pignasecca in the Montesanto district, easily reached from Montesanto metro station.
Early morning (7-9am) offers the freshest produce and authentic local atmosphere.
Open Monday-Saturday until about 2pm. Br
ing small bills and a shopping bag. Watch locals interact with vendors for a true Neapolitan experience!
I once bought what I thought was a strange-looking peach here – turns out it was a Saturn peach, the sweetest I’ve ever tasted! The fishmongers will clean and prepare seafood if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen – much cheaper than restaurants.
Gran Caffè Gambrinus
This historic café opened in 1860 and was once the gathering place for Naples’ intellectuals, artists, and politicians.
Located at Via Chiaia 1/2, beside Piazza del Plebiscito in the heart of Naples.
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon avoids the worst crowds. Open daily 7am-midnight, with coffee at the bar costing €1.30 (table service is pricier).
Try their famous sfogliatella with a strong espresso!
I felt intimidated by the elegant interior my first time, but the baristas are surprisingly welcoming. Standing at the bar like a local saves money and gives you the authentic Neapolitan coffee experience – quick, strong, and followed by a small glass of water.
Mount Vesuvius
This iconic active volcano created both tragedy and fertile soil that defines the Naples region.
Located 15km southeast of Naples, accessible by car or tour bus from Pompeii.
Early morning offers clearest views before afternoon haze develops. The crater is open daily 9am-4pm (winter) and 9am-6pm (summer), with a €12 entrance fee.
The hike takes about 30 minutes up a steep but well-maintained path.
Despite visiting in summer, I was shocked by how chilly and windy it was at the summit! Bring a light jacket even on hot days. The volcanic soil makes amazing wine – look for Lacryma Christi (“Tears of Christ”) in local restaurants.
Capri Day Trip
This glamorous island offers stunning natural beauty, luxury shopping, and the famous Blue Grotto sea cave.
Ferries depart regularly from Naples’ Molo Beverello port, taking 50-80 minutes.
Visit mid-week in shoulder seasons (May-June or September) to avoid extreme crowds.
Ferries cost €21-28 each way, and the Blue Grotto entrance is an additional €14. Last ferries back are usually around 6:30pm.
Skip the funicular line from Marina Grande by taking a convertible taxi up to Capri Town! I nearly missed my return ferry because I didn’t allow enough time to get back to the port. If visiting during high season, book your return ticket in advance or you might get stuck overnight.
Sorrento
This picturesque coastal town offers stunning sea views, charming streets, and a more relaxed pace than Naples.
Located 50km south of Naples, reached via Circumvesuviana train (1 hour) or ferry (40 minutes).
Visit in late afternoon when day-trippers have left and the golden light illuminates the cliffs.
Trains run until around 9:30pm.
For relaxing things to do in Naples and its surroundings, this charming town provides a perfect contrast to city life.
The pedestrianized historic center is free to explore. I almost skipped Sorrento thinking it would be too touristy, but was charmed by its lemon groves and sea views.
For an affordable lunch with locals, walk 5 minutes away from the main square – prices drop dramatically and quality improves. Don’t miss trying limoncello where it originated!
Amalfi Coast
This UNESCO-listed coastline features dramatic cliffs dotted with colorful villages cascading down to the Mediterranean. Among scenic things to do in Naples’ surrounding area, this coastal drive ranks as one of the world’s most beautiful.
Located southeast of Naples, accessible via SITA buses from Sorrento or private tours.
Visit Amalfi Coast on weekdays in shoulder season (May or September) to avoid traffic and crowds.
The SITA bus from Sorrento to Amalfi costs about €10 one-way.
My first visit was on a crowded August weekend – big mistake! I returned in late September and had a completely different experience.
If using public transport, start early and focus on just 2-3 towns maximum. Ravello offers the most breathtaking views with fewer tourists than Positano.
Cappella Sansevero
Located at Via Francesco De Sanctis 19, near Piazza San Domenico Maggiore.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons have fewer crowds. Open daily except Tuesdays, 9am-7pm, tickets cost €8. Photography is allowed without flash.
Book tickets online to avoid lines during peak season. I literally gasped when I first saw the Veiled Christ – photos don’t do it justice!
Among artistic things to do in Naples, this masterpiece consistently leaves visitors awestruck
The anatomical machines in the basement are equally fascinating but a bit macabre. The chapel is small, so I spent time examining the incredible floor tiles that most visitors overlook – they’re a masterpiece of marble inlay.
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
Located at Piazza del Plebiscito 1, easily reached via Metro Line 1 to Municipio station.
This opulent palace was home to the Bourbon kings and earlier Spanish viceroys who ruled Naples.
Open daily except Wednesdays, 9am-8pm, tickets cost €10. The audio guide provides excellent historical context.
I almost rushed through the Royal Apartments but then realized each ceiling was painted by different master artists!
My favorite spot was the suspended staircase – an engineering marvel with no visible support. The palace theater is only open during special exhibitions, so check the schedule before visiting.
Capodimonte Museum
This magnificent museum housed in a former Bourbon hunting lodge contains masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
Located in the northern hills at Via Milano 2, reached via bus C63 from the center. Tuesday-Thursday mornings are least crowded.
Open daily except Wednesdays, 8:30am-7:30pm, tickets cost €12.
The surrounding park offers beautiful views of Naples. I spent three hours here and only saw half the collection!
The contemporary art on the third floor is often overlooked but includes works by Andy Warhol.
My insider tip? The royal apartments on the second floor have the original 18th-century furniture and decor – much more interesting than they sound on the museum map.
Naples Street Art in Spanish Quarters
Once avoided by tourists, this neighborhood has transformed with vibrant murals, including the famous Maradona tribute.
Located west of Via Toledo between Via Sant’Anna di Palazzo e Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
Late afternoon light is perfect for photography. The area is free to explore, with many small bars offering affordable aperitivo.
The neighborhood is much safer than its reputation suggests, but keeps valuables secure. I was initially nervous about visiting but found myself returning multiple times!
The giant Maradona mural gets all the attention, but I discovered dozens of smaller works down side alleys that were equally impressive. Follow the small yellow street art signs to find hidden gems.
Art Stations of Naples Metro
The Toledo station (and others on Line 1) showcase contemporary art installations, making them underground museums.
Toledo station is at Via Toledo, other notable stations include Università, Dante, and Garibaldi. Off-peak hours allow better appreciation of the art without crowds. Regular metro tickets (€1.10) provide access.
Line 1 stations are generally open 6am-11pm.
I spent an entire afternoon “metro hopping” between stations to see different installations. My favorite is the light installation at Toledo that creates the feeling of being underwater – stand at the bottom of the main escalator and look up for the best effect.
Via San Gregorio Armeno
Known as “Christmas Alley,” this narrow street is filled with artisan workshops creating traditional Neapolitan nativity scenes year-round.
Located in the historic center between Via San Biagio dei Librai and Via Tribunali. December is magical but extremely crowded; October-November offers the same charm with fewer people.
Shops typically open 9:30am-7:30pm. Expect to pay €20-50 for a quality handmade figurine.
Bargaining is acceptable for larger purchases.
I discovered that many workshops offer personalized figurines – I had one made of myself as a pizza maker!
The most interesting shops are toward the middle of the street, where you can watch artisans hand-painting figures.
Parco Virgiliano
Located in the upscale Posillipo neighborhood, reached via bus C21 from Mergellina.
Open daily from 7am until sunset, with free entry. The upper terraces offer the best vistas. Local couples and families gather here in early evenings.
I stumbled upon this park accidentally while wandering and couldn’t believe the view wasn’t more famous!
It’s where I fell in love with Naples. Bring a picnic and cold white wine to enjoy on the terraces as the sun sets behind Ischia and Procida – one of my most memorable experiences in all of Italy.
Rione Sanità
This authentic neighborhood beneath the Capodimonte hill showcases Naples’ vibrant local culture and baroque architecture.
Morning visits allow you to see local market life; afternoons are quieter.
Located just north of the historic center, best accessed from Piazza Cavour.
The neighborhood has undergone significant positive changes recently. My first taxi driver warned me not to visit Rione Sanità, but a local friend took me there for the best pizza of my life at Concettina ai Tre Santi.
For off-the-beaten-path things to do in Naples, this emerging district reveals the city’s authentic character.
The contrast between ornate baroque palaces and everyday Neapolitan life makes this area uniquely fascinating. Don’t miss Palazzo dello Spagnolo with its magnificent double-ramp staircase!
Lungomare Seafront Promenade
This 2.5km pedestrianized waterfront walkway offers stunning views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.
Among free things to do in Naples, this scenic stroll captures the essence of Neapolitan leisure culture.
Stretches from Mergellina to Castel dell’Ovo along Via Partenope and Via Caracciolo. Evening visits (7-9pm) showcase local life during the traditional passeggiata.
Free to access, with numerous cafes and restaurants along the route.
Sunday mornings are delightful when the road is closed to traffic.
This is where I finally understood the Neapolitan art of dolce far niente – “the sweetness of doing nothing.” I joined locals on the sea wall watching the sunset, sharing conversations with strangers despite my limited Italian.
For the perfect evening, grab gelato from Gay-Odin and stroll as Mount Vesuvius turns pink in the setting sun.
Mount Vesuvius Vineyard Tour
Several vineyards offer tours in the Vesuvius National Park area, 30-40 minutes from Naples. Late morning or afternoon visits work well, avoiding the hottest part of the day.
Tours typically cost €25-60 per person, including transportation, tour, and tasting.
Advance booking is essential. I was skeptical about “volcano wine” until I tried Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio – now I’m obsessed!
The minerality from the volcanic soil creates wines unlike any others I’ve tasted. Many tours include lunch with wine pairings of local dishes.
My favorite memory was sipping white wine while looking directly up at the volcano that created the unique growing conditions.
For gourmet things to do in Naples, these vineyard tours combine stunning landscapes with distinctive local flavors.
Conclusion
Naples isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that engages all your senses and stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
From its unparalleled pizza to its archaeological treasures, vibrant street life to breathtaking coastal views, Naples offers something for every type of traveler.
As you plan your 2025 visit, remember that the city’s greatest charm lies in its authenticity and the warmth of its people.
Don’t rush through Naples as just a gateway to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast – give yourself time to discover its hidden corners and embrace its passionate spirit.
Whatever you choose from this list, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories in one of Italy’s most captivating cities!
