Is Naples worth visiting? 20 Reasons why visit Naples, Italy
Is Naples worth visiting? While Naples, Italy, may not be your typical European city break, it’s a city that defies stereotypes and beckons you with its unique charm.
Just because we were born in Naples, we don’t want to sugarcoat this city, which still is developing its touristy facets. Known for its bustling streets, a history intertwined with the Italian mafia, and authentic grittiness, Naples offers an experience like no other.
Naples is a city where history lives and breathes; every neighbourhood has a story to tell, and the scent of the world’s finest pizza fills the air. So, is it worth visiting Naples? Absolutely. It’s an undiscovered gem that invites you to explore its rich tapestry of culture and heritage.
Is Naples worth visiting now?
Absolutely yes! Naples is worth visiting now and any time of the year. It doesn’t matter when you’re planning your Naples itinerary, you will love spending your time in this gorgeous city!
Key takeaway | Is it Naples for you?
While Rome, Venice, and Florence often steal the spotlight, Naples offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a city that encourages you to step off the beaten path and discover the real Italy.
With 20 compelling reasons to visit, including its rich history, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and stunning coastal vistas, Naples is a destination that promises an unforgettable adventure. Discover why Naples, Italy, is a place you’ll fall in love with.
Reasons to visit Naples? 20 Perfect reasons to motivate you to visit Naples soon
Pros and Cons of visiting Naples
- Captivating history, with ancient ruins, palaces, and churches
- Birthplace of pizza
- The stunning Amalfi Coast is easily accessible from Naples
- More authentic and less touristy experience
- Budget-friendly
- People are friendly
- You can enjoy the beaches
- Warm weather throughout the year
- Chaotic traffic and busy streets
- Some streets are still under development
- The city may not meet cleanliness standards
- English proficiency is lower compared to more touristy Italian cities
- Public transportation options are not as extensive
What is so special about Naples?
Naples tends to be defined a special city, as it unconventional and totally different than other well known Italian cities. It’s not only the city that looks not well maintained, but it’s the history, the people and the atmosphere that makes Naples special. Without a doubt, Naples is a city that is absolutely worth visiting. Few European cities have left as strong of a first impression as Naples. While it can be wild and chaotic with heavy traffic even in the city centre, it also boasts beautiful piazzas, a historic centre listed as a Unesco World Heritage site, and breathtaking surroundings. It is worth going to Naples for the incredible natural beauty and the central position to reach stunning places such as Rome and the Amalfi Coast.
Nestled in the Bay of Naples, this city offers easy access to the stunning Vesuvius hike, Roman ruins, charming islands and sandy beaches. Within one hour away by train, you can reach one of the world’s most breathtaking stretches of coastline – the Amalfi Coast.
While many travellers use Naples as a transfer point during their European summer trips, why not take a few days to explore one of Italy’s most captivating cities? If you’re wondering whether Naples is worth visiting, here are 20 reasons to consider it. And don’t wait too long – Naples is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination in Italy.
20 Reasons why Naples is worth a shot
Among the many reasons to visit Naples, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top suggestions and most appealing. Keep in mind that Naples is huge, the third city in Italy, and condensing too much in one day might be daunting.
There’s enough to keep you occupied, from historical landmarks to delicious food for days. If you have two days in Naples, you should be able to see most of the attractions on this list. However, we suggest planning at least three to four days in Naples to explore the surrounding area as well.
If you’re still unsure if Naples is worth visiting, read on to find out more, or head to our guide on how to spend one day in Naples.
Budget-friendly destination
Naples is a budget traveller’s dream. Unlike other Italian cities, prices here won’t break the bank. From affordable street food to reasonably priced accommodations, you can explore Naples without draining your wallet. The city offers exceptional value for the experiences it provides.
Locals are warm and welcoming
Naples is known for its friendly and passionate locals. They welcome visitors with open arms, eager to share their culture and stories. Engaging with Neapolitans can lead to memorable encounters and a deeper understanding of the city’s soul.
Naples is safe
Despite its reputation, Naples has made significant strides in improving tourist safety. Like any big city, it’s essential to exercise caution because pickpockets are everywhere, especially in crowded places. However, with reasonable precautions, you can explore Naples without substantial concerns.
The old quarter and the Spanish area are now safe to explore. However, we always suggest having travel insurance to minimise the risks and at least get compensated and get assistance if something goes wrong.
Naples’s famous street art
If you enjoy street art, Naples is an ideal destination for you. The city boasts a variety of hidden gems and enormous murals that coexist in perfect harmony. Amidst these urban masterpieces, you’ll discover vivid depictions of Diego Maradona, a legendary figure in the heart of Naples. A god (of Football) for me, born in the city and devoted to the team and this legend.
However, the Murales of Maradona and its shrine in the heart of the Spanish quarter are the city’s most famous. While exploring Naples, you’ll also have the rare opportunity to witness an original Banksy creation.
Although one of the two Banksy artworks in Naples was destroyed in 2010, the stencil “Madonna with a Pistol” still stands protected by a glass cover on Piazza Gerolomini in Centro Storico, just off Via dei Tribunali, adorning the wall next to Dal Presidente Pizzeria.
Another celebrated artist, Jorit Agoch, has left his indelible mark on Naples. His renowned “San Gennaro” mural is a must-see on Via Vicaria Vecchia, also situated in the charming confines of Centro Storico. This young artist is among the most appreciated, with fantastic masterpieces in less fortunate areas of Naples neighbourhoods.
Inspiring Cafes
Naples’ cafes offer a taste of local life. Sip an espresso in a historic cafe while soaking in the lively atmosphere. These cafes have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and thinkers for centuries. The Cafe Gambrinus, next to the major square Piazza Plebiscito, is a stop on your walk you can’t miss. Highly relevant personalities sipped a cup of coffee here, and it’s often packed with locals and tourists.
Walkable city centre and old town
Navigating Naples on foot is a delight. The city centre and historic old town are compact and easily explored on foot, allowing you to discover charming alleyways and hidden gems at your own pace.
The centro storico is suggestive
Naples’ Centro Storico is the heart and soul of the city, brimming with vibrant energy day and night. The Unesco World Heritage site is a collision of past, present, and future, creating a sensory overload of history, monuments, cafes, bars, and bustling traffic that’s impossible to ignore. As you explore the maze of streets, you may feel like you’ve stepped into a more exotic realm far from Europe.
Here, the Denominations that ruled Naples became real in a melting pot of cultures and ways of life. But this district is not just a tourist destination; it’s where Neapolitans live, work, and socialise.
The streets serve as the backdrop for daily life, from grocery shopping to sipping espresso, from getting a haircut to simply observing the city’s rhythm.
While Centro Storico may be overwhelming at first, it’s an authentic representation of Naples and an essential part of any visit to the town. This part of Naples is bustling at Christmas when locals and tourists traverse the winding streets toward San Gregorio Armeno.
Best tours of Naples Historic Centre
Rich culture and art
Naples is a cultural treasure trove with a wealth of museums, galleries, and theatres. You’ll find art and history everywhere, from the National Archaeological Museum to the San Carlo Opera House.
Places we suggest visiting in Naple:
The Spanish Quarter is unique
We have already mentioned this picturesque district of Naples, but it’s worth spending a few more words. The Spanish Quarter, or Quartieri Spagnoli, stands as one of Naples’ most renowned districts. Just recently reopened, it’s the most vivid expression of the city’s development to tourism.
While it once carried whispers of safety concerns, today, it exudes an aura of security and is worth exploring. Nestled conveniently near the bustling Via Toledo shopping street, Naples’ Spanish Quarter is a treasure trove awaiting your discovery. Filled with fantastic restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, this neighbourhood is a must-visit in Naples.
Churches are stunning
Most of the churches in Naples are free to visit. The city is very devoted, and you can feel it. We suggest you add four sights to your Naples itinerary: Naples Cathedral, the Saint Chiara Cloister, the famous Capella Sansevero and the Gesù Nuovo Church.
The fantastic Naples Cathedral is at the edge of the old town and holds and preserves the shrine of St. Gennaro, Patreon of the city. It boasts an awe-inspiring interior adorned with captivating frescoes and ancient 4th-century mosaics, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Naples’ religious heritage.
Meanwhile, tucked away in the historic heart of Naples lies the charming Capella Sansevero, a small chapel museum with an exquisite collection of Rococo artworks by prominent 18th-century Italian artists. Amidst its treasures, the Veiled Christ is a masterpiece of unparalleled beauty. You must pay an entrance fee to this church and book in advance here.
Filled with hidden corners
Exploring Naples feels like a treasure hunt. Its streets are filled with hidden corners, charming courtyards, and unexpected surprises waiting to be discovered. Get lost in its labyrinthine alleys; you will be satisfied. Our favourite hidden corner and off the beaten path place in Naples is the Borgo dei Marinari. At the foot of Castel dell’Ovo, right on the promenade, you will get the best view of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples, surrounded by trendy bars and restaurants.
Walkable stunning promenade
Talking about the promenade of Naples, we can’t miss mentioning Via Partenope and Mergellina. If you are in for the picture-perfect Naples Instagram spots, you should spend some time on the Naples waterfront. Walk along Via Partenope, seeing some of the best hotels in the city, sipping a spritz at one of the trendy cafes. The places mentioned above are also ideal for a fantastic italian breakfast with the typical graffa with a sea view and a cappuccino in your hands.
The best pizza in the world
We got here to one of the best topics when booking a trip to Naples. The birthplace of Pizza is Naples, even though it was just where the famous dish was perfected and became popular. Sink your teeth into a slice of Margherita or Marinara pizza, and you’ll taste why Naples claims to serve the best pizza in the world. The most famous pizzeria is Da Michele in the old town, but check out our guide to the best pizza in Naples by us.
Do you want to learn how to make pizza?
Well, while visiting Naples, you might want to do some extraordinary activities. Why don’t you learn how to make pizza where it was born? In Naples, there are the best schools, and in a single lesson, you can get all the secrets. Read our guide to the best pizza-making classes in Naples. If you are in a hurry, check the best we selected.
The coolest metro in the world
Naples boasts a developing metro system that has privileged the beauty of its stations in the last few years. While excavating for the network of underground railways, the engineers have found incredible remains of culture passed by Naples. Most of the findings are now part of the Metro Museum, which makes it one of the best free galleries in the world. Also, within the results, the art melts and creates stunning architectural marvels.
Among the standout stations, Università and Municipio beckon with their stunning displays. However, if you’re short on time and can only explore one, our heartfelt recommendation goes to the awe-inspiring Toledo metro station in Naples. This underground marvel made waves 2014 when it secured the top spot on CNN’s list of Europe’s most impressive metro stations.
Slow lifestyle
Naples encourages a slow, leisurely pace of life. Embrace the dolce vita mentality, savouring each moment as you explore the city’s charming streets and savour its delicious cuisine. The easygoing savoir-faire of the town might overwhelm you at first, but you will get with the flow within days. It’s true the story of people hating the city at first and falling in love, crying when leaving. After all, Goethe once said, “See Naples and then die” in his Italian journey to remark on the beauty of the city and its inhabitants.
Vibrant at night
We have experienced a city so vibrant at night just a few times. Naples seems a different city after dark, becoming more vibrant and keeping the scene lively. Especially in summer, you can see locals staying up until late at night, with clubs, bars, restaurants and shops open after midnight. We might have experienced something similar only in Thessaloniki and Izmir.
Football is a religion
Maradona is a god, but it is because Football is a religion and a way of life for locals. In Naples, Football is more than a sport; it’s a passion.
Attending a Napoli football match at the iconic Maradona’s Stadium, formerly San Paolo Stadium, is an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the tickets are often sold out, even online, making it an incredible experience if you can. While you can’t book a visit to the Stadium, you can still go through a beautiful tour in Maradona’s footsteps in Naples.
Getaway to the Amalfi Coast
Is Naples worth visiting as a base for doing day trips? Yes, and one of the most popular is a day trip to the Amalfi Coast. Before becoming a destination to go to, Naples was a passage to the glamorous Amalfi Coast. In fact, the city has the only closer airport to the stunning coastline.
You can plan a fantastic road trip to the Amalfi Coast and enjoy the little inlets of Furore, Maiori, and Minori, among others. We also suggest spending a few days in Sorrento, the perfect romantic place for couples near Naples and Amalfi Coast.
Other day trips from Naples
The possibilities are endless when it comes to exploring Naples and its nearby attractions. You can easily access enchanting islands such as Capri, Procida, and Ischia, as well as venture further out to discover the grandeur of the world’s largest royal palace in Caserta or embark on an adventure to the restless Vesuvius volcano, followed by a profound visit to the ancient city of Pompeii.
If you’re craving the famous Italian “La Dolce Vita,” you can take a day trip to Sorrento or the picturesque Amalfi Coast. These destinations offer a journey filled with charm and allure, adding more richness to your travel experience. For inspiration and valuable planning insights, check out our comprehensive guide on day trips from Naples to ensure extraordinary adventures.
Ideal for a weekend in Southern Europe
If you are looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of your city, Naples is perfect. With a one- to two-hour flight, you can get directly to Naples from the major European destinations.
Because the city is affordable, it is becoming one of the most attractive in the Southern Europe destinations panorama. If you only have a weekend, departing on Friday Night and going back home on Sunday evening, Naples can give you a change of scenery you need to refresh and boost your daily routine.
Ideal for a workation in Europe
Among the many reasons why we love to say that Naples is worth visiting, is that it’s perfect for a workation in Europe. If you are lucky enough to work remotely, or be a fully independent Digital Nomad, you can spend some time in Naples. Airbnb options are endless, even in the suburbs.
The affordability is a key in the world of the nomads, and Naples is perfect because of that. In fact, Naples is an emerging destination for remote workers seeking a workation in Europe. With its affordable living costs, inspiring surroundings, and vibrant culture, it provides an ideal backdrop for work and leisure. Explore the possibilities of a Neapolitan workation.
10 Perfect things to do in Naples and around
Try authentic Neapolitan pizza
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so don’t miss the chance to savour a traditional Neapolitan pizza at a local pizzeria. The Margherita and Marinara pizzas are iconic choices.
Visit Naples National Archaeological Museum
This museum houses an impressive collection of Roman and Greek antiquities, including sculptures, mosaics, and artefacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Stroll through Spaccanapoli
Explore the historic heart of Naples by walking along Spaccanapoli, a narrow, bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and landmark buildings of Naples.
Take in the view from Castel dell’Ovo
Enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples from this seaside castle. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely walk and a picnic.
Discover the Underground Naples
Explore the Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples), a network of tunnels and caves beneath the city. Guided tours offer insight into the city’s underground history.
Visit the Royal Palace of Naples
Explore the opulent Royal Palace, a historic residence of Spanish and later Bourbon monarchs. Don’t miss the stunning Palatine Chapel and Royal Armory. Book your ticket here!
Wander through the Historic Centre
Naples’ historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow streets, churches, and vibrant markets. Be sure to visit the Duomo di Napoli and San Gregorio Armeno.
Explore Pompeii and Herculaneum
Visit the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. These archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into life in ancient times.
Hike Mount Vesuvius
For adventure seekers, consider hiking to the summit of Mount Vesuvius. The panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the volcano’s crater are worth the effort.
Relax on the Amalfi Coast
While not technically in Naples, the Amalfi Coastis easily accessible and offers stunning coastal scenery, charming towns like Positano and Amalfi, and beautiful beaches.
Final thoughts! Is Naples worth visiting?
We love Naples, and you might love it too. Naples is worth visiting, as it’s a budget-friendly destination, ideal also for first-timers in Italy. While it is not easy to understand, as it is chaotic and bustling, it has a gentle heart.
Walking through the winding streets, passing by centuries of history that has seen many conquerors leaving a piece of their culture somewhere, somehow. Naples is full of hidden spots which will leave you astonished. Even though most of the people make Naples only a passage to reach the wonderful Amalfi Coast, it is worth spending some time with.
Best time to visit Naples
Naples, along with nearby destinations such as Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, are consistently popular with tourists throughout the year. However, it’s best to avoid peak crowds from June to August during the European holiday season.
Just to give you an overview of what to expect when visiting Naples, the city has a long summer and a mild, enjoyable autumn. Typically, October and November have comfortable temperatures. So, the shoulder season is ideal for finding nice weather and affordable prices.
- Naples in winter (December to March): Mean temperature ranges from 8-14°C (46-57°F).
- Naples in summer: Expect a mean temperature between 22-32°C (71-89°F). Perfect to enjoy the best beaches of Naples. August is the hottest, with temperatures getting up to 35°C (95°F)
- Naples in spring or autumn: Mean temperatures hover around 14-22°C (57-71°F).
- Rainfall peaks in November, December, and April.
- Sporadic snow only on the Vesuvius, just within January and February.
How to get to Naples?
The Naples International Airport is about 6 km (3.7 mi) from Naples. It has convenient connections to most parts of Europe, allowing you to travel to Naples from anywhere in Europe with just one stopover. Though only some intercontinental flights are available, reaching Naples from other European cities, such as Milan or Rome, is still easy.
Alternative Airports:
- Rome Airport
- Bari, Puglia Airport
Italy Travel Insurance
Nowadays, booking travel insurance is becoming part of the travelling plan. However, it’s just a precaution, and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller. Like any travel destination, Naples comes with its share of unforeseen circumstances, whether it’s an unexpected medical issue, a missed flight connection, or even the misfortune of losing your belongings.
Having comprehensive travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial security, turning potential travel hiccups into manageable situations. The safety net allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s wonders, knowing you’re protected against any travel-related uncertainties. So, when planning your Naples adventure, remember that investing in travel insurance is more than just a precaution; it’s a smart decision ensuring your trip remains a memorable and worry-free experience.