23 Best Things to Do in Naples: Top Attractions, Food & Day Trips

Naples doesn’t try to impress you — it hits you straight in the face. The noise, the scooters, the smell of espresso and pizza, the sea suddenly opening up between old buildings. The first time I arrived, I remember standing still near Spaccanapoli, completely overwhelmed, thinking: this city is chaos… and I already love it.

If you’re wondering what to do in Naples, this guide covers everything that makes the city unforgettable — iconic attractions, food experiences you won’t find anywhere else, breathtaking viewpoints, underground wonders, and the best day trips just outside the city. Naples is not polished like Florence or calm like Venice, but that’s exactly its charm. It’s raw, authentic, and full of soul.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the best things to do in Naples, mixing must-see landmarks with local favorites and practical tips, so you can experience the city the right way — not rushed, not filtered, just real Naples.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Naples?

If you’re short on time, these are the top things to do in Naples, Italy that capture the city’s history, food culture, and unforgettable energy:

• Walk through Naples’ historic center (Centro Storico), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Eat authentic Neapolitan pizza at one of the city’s legendary pizzerias
• Visit Pompeii or Herculaneum to explore life frozen in time
• Enjoy a seaside stroll along Lungomare Caracciolo
• Take in panoramic views from Castel Sant’Elmo in Vomero
• Explore the Naples National Archaeological Museum
• Discover Naples Underground beneath the old city
• Take a day trip to Capri or the Amalfi Coast

These experiences combine Naples’ must-see attractions with local favorites and easy excursions, making them ideal for first-time visitors and short stays. From here, let’s take a closer look at the places that truly define the city, starting with its most iconic sights.

Must-See Attractions in Naples For First-Time Visitors

Naples can feel overwhelming at first — loud, layered, and unapologetically alive. But once you start exploring its main sights, everything begins to make sense. These Naples attractions are where history, daily life, and raw beauty collide, and they’re the places every first-time visitor should experience to truly understand the city.

Naples Historic Center (Centro Storico)

The Naples historic center is where I always tell people to start — and where I personally fell for the city. The first time I walked along Spaccanapoli, laundry hanging overhead and scooters squeezing past pedestrians, I realized this wasn’t a museum city. This is real life, layered over two thousand years of history.

Stretching from the Church of Gesù Nuovo to the Duomo, the Centro Storico of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with churches, hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and street food stalls. Every few steps, something pulls you in — a baroque façade, a tiny espresso bar, or the smell of fresh pizza folded in half and eaten on the go.

What makes this area special isn’t just the landmarks, but the rhythm of daily life. Locals chat on doorsteps, shop owners call out from their stores, and visitors share the narrow streets with residents who’ve lived here for generations. If you want to feel the soul of Naples, this is it.

Local tip: Visit early in the morning or just before sunset. The streets are quieter, the light is beautiful, and the historic center feels more authentic before the crowds arrive.

Naples National Archaeological Museum

If there’s one museum in Naples that truly changes how you see the city, it’s the Naples Archaeological Museum. I’ll be honest — on my first visit, I didn’t expect to spend long here. I ended up staying for hours, completely absorbed.

The museum houses the most important finds from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, frescoes, sculptures, and everyday objects frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius. Seeing these artifacts before (or after) visiting the ruins gives real context to what life looked like in ancient Roman Naples.

What struck me most was how personal it feels. These aren’t distant relics — they’re kitchen tools, wall art, and street signs from real homes. Suddenly, Pompeii isn’t just ruins anymore; it’s a living city you can imagine yourself walking through.

Practical tip: This museum is large and dense. If you’re short on time, focus on the Pompeii and Herculaneum collections first — they’re the highlights and absolutely worth it.

Cappella Sansevero & the Veiled Christ

This is one of those places in Naples that genuinely stops you in your tracks. The first time I stepped into Cappella Sansevero, the room went quiet — not because it’s big or ornate, but because everyone is standing there trying to understand how the Veiled Christ in Naples was even possible.

The sculpture looks soft, almost breathing, with a marble veil so detailed it feels unreal. Photos don’t do it justice. Seeing it in person is one of those rare travel moments where you forget about time and just stand there, stunned.

Beyond the famous statue, the chapel itself is filled with symbolism, intricate artwork, and stories tied to Naples’ mysterious past. It’s a small space, but incredibly powerful, and easily one of the most memorable Naples attractions you can visit.

Important tip: Book tickets in advance. Entry is limited, and this spot sells out quickly, especially in high season.

Castel dell’Ovo & Borgo Marinari

Castel dell’Ovo in Naples is one of those places that doesn’t need an entrance ticket to impress you. The first time I walked up to it, the sea was calm, Mount Vesuvius was perfectly visible in the distance, and locals were sitting along the waterfront doing absolutely nothing — and it felt perfect.

This is the oldest castle in the city, sitting right on the water at the edge of the historic center. You can walk around it freely, enjoy open views over the Bay of Naples, and climb up for panoramic viewpoints without paying a cent. It’s one of the most relaxed and scenic Naples attractions, especially after a busy morning in the city.

Right next to the castle is Borgo Marinari, a tiny seaside harbor lined with restaurants and cafés. It’s touristy, yes — but in a pleasant way. I like coming here in the early evening, just before sunset, when the light turns golden, and the city finally slows down.

Local tip: This is one of the best sunset spots in Naples. Pair it with an evening walk along the nearby seafront for a perfect end to the day.

Food & Drink Experiences You Can’t Miss in Naples

Food in Naples isn’t just something you try — it’s something you live. Meals happen standing up, folded in paper, shared loudly at small tables, or eaten on the street with traffic rushing past. To understand Naples, you have to taste it. These food experiences are an essential part of what makes the city unforgettable.

Eat Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

If there’s one reason many people come to Naples, it’s pizza — and honestly, it lives up to the hype. The first time I had Neapolitan pizza in Naples, it was so soft and light that I questioned everything I thought I knew about pizza back home.

The dough is airy, the tomato sauce slightly sweet, the mozzarella fresh and melting, and the crust charred just enough. Eating the best pizza in Naples usually means standing in line, sitting close to strangers, and folding the slice with your hands — and that’s part of the experience.

Legendary pizzerias like Da Michele, Sorbillo, and Starita are famous for a reason, but even small neighborhood spots can surprise you. If you’re wondering what to eat in Naples beyond the classics, start here — this is where the city’s food culture really shows its character.

Local tip: Go for a classic Margherita or Marinara on your first try. In Naples, less truly is more.

Naples Street Food You Must Try

Naples is a city made for eating on the move. Some of my favorite meals here were never planned — they happened standing on a street corner, with a paper cone in one hand and traffic rushing past. Exploring Naples street food is one of the easiest and most authentic ways to experience the city.

You’ll see locals grabbing pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza), fried snacks like arancini and crocchè, and the famous cuoppo, a cone filled with mixed fried seafood or vegetables. This kind of local food in Naples is fast, cheap, and incredibly satisfying — perfect between sightseeing stops.

What I love most is how casual it all feels. No reservations, no menus, no rush. Just step up, order, eat, and move on. If you want to eat like a local and stay on budget, street food is the way to go.

Local tip: Follow the smell. The busiest street stalls usually serve the freshest food.

Coffee & Pastries in Naples

Coffee in Naples is fast, intense, and taken very seriously. One of my favorite daily rituals here is stopping at a bar, ordering an espresso, and drinking it in two sips while standing at the counter — just like the locals do.

When it comes to sfogliatella in Naples, you’ll usually have two choices: riccia (crispy and layered) or frolla (soft and buttery). Both are filled with sweet ricotta and citrus, and both are worth trying. Add a strong espresso, and you have one of the most iconic food moments in the city.

This simple combination is a big part of what to eat in Naples in the morning, whether you grab it near your hotel or at a historic café like Gran Caffè Gambrinus. It’s quick, affordable, and deeply Neapolitan.

Local tip: Order your coffee standing at the bar — it’s cheaper and how locals do it.

Best Views & Scenic Walks in Naples

Naples is dramatic by nature — the sea, the hills, and Mount Vesuvius all competing for attention. After the narrow streets and busy markets, the city suddenly opens up, offering wide views and calm walks that show a completely different side of Naples.

Lungomare Caracciolo Seafront Walk

The Lungomare Caracciolo is where I go when Naples feels a little too intense. The first time I walked here, it was late afternoon, and the contrast with the historic center was striking — wide open space, salty air, and Mount Vesuvius quietly dominating the horizon. It immediately felt like the city exhaled.

This long seaside promenade runs along the bay, offering uninterrupted views of the water and the islands beyond. It’s one of the most relaxing Naples viewpoints, and a perfect break from the narrow streets inland. The Naples seafront walk is flat, spacious, and especially beautiful around sunset, when the light softens, and locals start to slow their pace.

Good to know: This walk pairs beautifully with a visit to Castel dell’Ovo or an evening drink near Borgo Marinari, making it an easy, low-effort way to end the day.

Castel Sant’Elmo & Vomero Viewpoints

If you want the best panoramic views in the city, head up to Vomero. The first time I reached Castel Sant’Elmo, I honestly didn’t expect the view to be that impressive — and I was completely wrong. From the top, Naples spreads out beneath you, with the bay, Mount Vesuvius, and the historic center all in one frame.

The Castel Sant’Elmo sits on a hill above the city and offers some of the most dramatic best views in Naples. You can reach it easily using the funicular, which is an experience in itself and saves you a steep climb. Even if you don’t go inside the castle, the surrounding viewpoints are worth the trip.

What I loved most was the perspective. After days at street level, seeing Naples from above helped everything fall into place — the chaos, the beauty, and the scale of the city.

Worth noting: Sunset is spectacular here, but it’s quieter earlier in the day if you prefer fewer crowds.

Posillipo Viewpoints (Hidden Favorite)

Posillipo feels like a secret side of Naples. The first time I came up here, it was almost by accident, and I remember thinking how different it felt from the rest of the city — quieter, greener, and far less crowded. If you’re looking for hidden viewpoints in Naples, this area is hard to beat.

From the cliffs of Posillipo in Naples, you get sweeping views over the Bay of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius framed by the sea and the islands in the distance. Unlike the more famous viewpoints, this one feels relaxed and local, with just a few people stopping to admire the view or take photos.

It’s a perfect place to slow down, especially after a busy day of sightseeing. The light here is beautiful in the late afternoon, and the atmosphere feels almost residential, like you’ve stepped into a different city. Posillipo is best reached by bus or taxi, and it rewards those willing to go a little off the usual tourist path.

Underground & Unique Experiences in Naples

Naples is a city built in layers. What you see on the surface is only part of the story — beneath the streets lies a hidden world that explains much of the city’s history, resilience, and mystery. These unique things to do in Naples reveal a side of the city many visitors never expect.

Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)

Exploring Naples Underground feels like stepping into a completely different city. I still remember descending below the busy streets and suddenly finding silence, cool air, and ancient stone tunnels carved thousands of years ago.

The Napoli Sotterranea tour takes you through Greek and Roman aqueducts, wartime shelters, and narrow passageways that once supplied the city with water. Standing down there, knowing that life has been happening above you for centuries, is a surreal experience and easily one of the most unusual attractions in Naples.

What surprised me most was how well-organized and informative the tour was. It’s not just about history — it’s about understanding how Naples survived, adapted, and continues to live on top of its past.

Local Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for tight spaces. This experience isn’t ideal if you’re claustrophobic.

Catacombs of San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gennaro were one of the biggest surprises of my time in Naples. Tucked away from the busy center, this site feels calm, spacious, and deeply atmospheric — a sharp contrast to the chaos above ground.

These early Christian burial tunnels are carved into volcanic rock and spread across multiple levels, making them far more open than you might expect. Visiting the San Gennaro Catacombs in Naples offers insight into the city’s religious history and artistic traditions, all explained through guided tours included with the ticket.

What really stayed with me was the sense of scale and quiet. It’s not dark or eerie — instead, it feels respectful and thoughtfully presented, making it one of the most underrated things to do in Naples.

Worth noting: Tours are guided and run at set times, so arriving earlier in the day gives you more flexibility and a calmer experience.

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Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli)

The Spanish Quarter in Naples is raw, loud, and completely unapologetic — and that’s exactly why I love it. The first time I walked through Quartieri Spagnoli, I’ll admit I was a little unsure. The streets are narrow, laundry hangs overhead, scooters squeeze through impossible gaps — and then suddenly, it all starts to feel alive.

This neighborhood sits right next to Via Toledo and offers one of the most authentic looks at everyday life in Naples. Small bars, local bakeries, street art, and shrines to Maradona fill the area, making it one of the most unusual attractions in Naples if you’re used to polished historic centers.

What changed my perspective was slowing down. Once you stop rushing and start observing, the Spanish Quarter reveals warmth, humor, and a strong sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Helpful tip: Visit during the day and stick to the main streets on your first walk. The area is safe, but it’s best enjoyed with awareness and curiosity rather than haste.

Best Day Trips from Naples

One of the best things about Naples is how easily it connects you to some of southern Italy’s most iconic destinations. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, volcanic landscapes, or coastal towns, these day trips from Naples are easy to plan and well worth the time.

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

Visiting Pompeii from Naples is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave. Walking through its streets, homes, and forums makes history feel incredibly real — especially when you realize that Mount Vesuvius is still looming in the background.

Pairing Pompeii with a Mount Vesuvius tour makes perfect sense. After exploring the ruins, hiking up the volcano gives you context you can’t get from books or museums. Standing at the crater and looking back over the Bay of Naples is both impressive and slightly humbling.

From my experience, this combination works best if you start early and pace yourself. It’s a full but rewarding day, and one of the most memorable excursions you can take while staying in Naples.

Planning tip: Visit Pompeii first, then head up to Vesuvius in the afternoon when the crowds thin out slightly.

Capri Island

A Capri day trip from Naples feels like stepping into a completely different world. The first time I arrived by ferry, the water was impossibly blue, the cliffs dramatic, and the atmosphere immediately more polished than Naples itself.

Capri is famous for its natural beauty, boat tours around the island, and iconic spots like the Faraglioni rocks. Getting there is easy with the Naples to Capri ferry, making it one of the most popular island escapes from the city. That said, Capri can feel crowded and expensive, especially in peak season.

Personally, I think Capri is worth it if you start early and focus on the scenery rather than rushing between attractions. A relaxed boat ride or a walk in Anacapri shows a calmer, more authentic side of the island.

Worth considering: Capri is at its best in the shoulder seasons or early in the morning, before day-trippers arrive.

Amalfi Coast

A visit to the Amalfi Coast from Naples is one of the most iconic day trips in southern Italy — and also one of the most intense. The coastline is undeniably beautiful, with colorful villages clinging to cliffs and the sea stretching endlessly below.

Traveling from Naples to the Amalfi Coast takes planning. Roads are narrow, traffic can be heavy, and public transport gets crowded, especially in summer. From my experience, it’s best to focus on one or two towns rather than trying to see everything in a single day.

If you want a more relaxed visit, consider Ravello for its views or Amalfi for its history and easy access. Positano is stunning, but it is often the busiest. No matter where you go, the scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile.

Travel note: Guided day tours or ferries can save time and reduce stress compared to driving, but if you are planning to drive the coastline yourself, check out our detailed guides on Is it Worth Driving the Amalfi Coast? and the Amalfi Coast Road Trip Itinerary for everything you need to know.

Procida or Ischia (Less Tourist Crowds)

If Capri feels a bit too polished or busy, Procida or Ischia from Naples offer a much more relaxed island experience. I personally loved how different the atmosphere felt the moment I arrived — slower, quieter, and far less rushed.

Procida is the smaller of the two and feels wonderfully authentic. Colorful houses line the harbor, locals chat in cafés, and life moves at an easy pace. It’s perfect if you want a simple island escape with minimal planning.

Ischia, on the other hand, is larger and greener, known for its thermal spas, beaches, and coastal walks. A day trip to Ischia Island from Naples works well if you enjoy nature, wellness, or want more space to explore.

Both islands are easy to reach by ferry and reward travelers who want to step away from the crowds without sacrificing beauty.

Worth knowing: Procida is ideal for a short, low-key visit, while Ischia is better if you want variety and don’t mind covering more ground.

Free & Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Naples

Naples is one of the easiest Italian cities to enjoy on a budget. Some of the most memorable experiences here don’t cost anything at all — they just require time, curiosity, and comfortable shoes. If you’re looking for free things to do in Naples or trying to keep costs down, this city delivers.

Walking through the historic center, watching daily life unfold in local neighborhoods, and enjoying the sea views are all part of what makes Naples special. Many cheap things to do in Naples are also the most authentic, letting you experience the city the same way locals do.

Free & Low-Cost Experiences to Enjoy

• Walk through the Centro Storico and Spaccanapoli
• Stroll along Lungomare Caracciolo at sunset
• Visit Castel dell’Ovo (free entry)
• Explore lively local neighborhoods like Quartieri Spagnoli
• Grab affordable street food instead of sit-down meals
• Step into Naples’ churches, many of which are free to enter

Naples proves that you don’t need a big budget to have a rich travel experience — the city itself does most of the work.

Things to Do in Naples With Kids

Naples might not seem like an obvious family destination at first, but it can be surprisingly enjoyable with children if you plan smart. Many attractions are outdoors, walkable, and flexible — which makes the city easier to navigate with kids than you might expect.

If you’re looking for things to do in Naples with kids, focus on open spaces, simple experiences, and activities that don’t require long attention spans. Naples works best when you keep the pace relaxed and leave room for breaks.

Family-Friendly Activities in Naples

• Walk around Castel dell’Ovo, with open space and sea views
• Enjoy pizza-making experiences or casual pizzerias
• Take a ferry to nearby islands like Procida or Ischia
• Visit the Naples Zoo or explore large city parks
• Ride the funicular up to Vomero for city views

Naples isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about letting kids explore, taste, and experience the city in small, memorable moments.

Practical Tips for Visiting Naples

Naples is an energetic, lived-in city, and a little preparation goes a long way in making your visit smoother.

Safety & Awareness

Naples is generally safe for visitors, especially in central neighborhoods. As with any busy city, staying alert, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding poorly lit streets late at night will help you feel comfortable.

Best Area to Stay in Naples

For first-time visitors, the best areas to stay are:

• Historic Center → close to attractions and food
• Chiaia → elegant, quieter, near the seafront
• Vomero → great views and transport connections

How to Get Around Naples

• Walking works best in central areas
• Metro and funiculars are useful for hills
• Taxis are convenient for short distances
• Trains are best for Pompeii, Herculaneum, and day trips

Best Time to Visit Naples

The best time to visit Naples is April–June and September–October, when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are manageable. Summer is hot and busy, while winter is quieter and cheaper.

FAQs About Things to Do in Naples

Final Words on Things to Do and See in Naples

Naples isn’t a city you simply visit — it’s a place you experience. It’s loud, imperfect, and deeply human, and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. From historic streets and underground tunnels to pizza eaten standing on a corner and sunsets over the bay, Naples has a way of staying with you long after you leave.

The best way to enjoy the city is to slow down, stay curious, and embrace its rhythm. Don’t try to see everything at once. Pick a few experiences, leave space for the unexpected, and let Naples show you who it really is.

Whether this is your first visit or your return, there’s always more to discover here — and that’s the magic of Naples.

Buon Viaggio!

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