11 Best Things to Do in Naples, Italy 🍕⛲

Looking for the best things to do in Naples, Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This city is loud, raw, beautiful, and unapologetically itself – and exploring it is always an adventure.

Ciao! I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who’s spent plenty of time in Napoli (and yes, eaten my weight in pizza here). To help you plan your trip, I’ve pulled together the top things to see, do, and eat within the city itself.

Quick note: you won’t find Pompeii or Mount Vesuvius on this list – they’re amazing, but they’re day trips, not city sights. I’ve got a full guide to the best day trips from Naples if that’s what you’re after.

Here are my favourite things to do right in Naples.

1. Marvel at the Archaeological Museum 🏛️

Naples is home to one of the world’s greatest archaeology collections.

Expect mosaics from Pompeii, Roman statues, Egyptian treasures, and more jaw-dropping ancient art than you can process in one afternoon.

Don’t rush through – the “Secret Cabinet” of ancient erotic art and the Alexander Mosaic are highlights. It’s a good idea to book ahead, as it can get busy.

Tickets are worth booking in advance, especially in high season.

2. Descend into the Catacombs 💀

These underground burial chambers date back to the 2nd century and give you a fascinating glimpse into early Christian Naples. The ceilings soar above you, with faded frescoes and niches marking resting places of bishops and ordinary citizens alike.

Guided tours are essential here, helping you navigate the maze of tunnels and understand the history. Bring a light jumper – it stays cool even in summer.

3. Check out Castel Nuovo 🏰

This 13th-century fortress is one of Naples’ most iconic landmarks. With its huge towers and ornate gate, it feels straight out of a fairytale.

Inside, there’s a museum and regular exhibitions. Even if you skip the interior, it’s worth a stop for photos.

4. Wander the Harbour ⚓

Naples harbour is busy, noisy, and a bit gritty – but that’s part of its charm.

For a slower pace, head towards Mergellina at sunset, where locals gather at waterside bars and trattorias for seafood and aperitivi.

If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the sun setting over Vesuvius. Magic.

5. Soak up Piazza del Plebiscito 🏛️

This sweeping square is the heart of Naples and the perfect place to soak up the city’s grandeur.

Lined with the Royal Palace and the Basilica Reale, it’s a great place to sit, people-watch, and take in the city’s energy.

Tip: Start a walking tour here – most guides include the piazza before heading deeper into the old town

6. Explore Santa Lucia 🏘️

This old neighbourhood is classic Naples – narrow cobbled lanes, laundry hanging overhead, and tiny trattorias tucked into corners.

t’s less hectic than the historic centre, and at its heart you’ll find quiet piazzas with little cafes and trattorias.

In the evening, it’s particularly lovely – grab seafood with a view of Castel dell’Ovo glowing at night.

7. Walk Spaccanapoli 🛵

This long street slices through the historic centre, buzzing with churches, cafes, and shops. It’s where Naples really comes alive.

Stop for gelato, duck into San Domenico Maggiore, and don’t miss the quirky Cappella Sansevero with its incredible Veiled Christ sculpture.

A fun detail: you won’t usually see “Spaccanapoli” labelled on maps. The easiest way to find it is to head to Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, where the road cuts across the square – that’s your starting point.

From there, just follow the line through to Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, and you’ll know you’re in the heart of Spaccanapoli.

8. Pizza on Via Tribunali 🍕

Naples = pizza heaven. And Via Tribunali is the place to try it. Join the queues at Sorbillo or Di Matteo for the most authentic slices in town.

Yes, the lines are long. Yes, it’s worth it.

But it’s not just pizza – you’ll also find popular Napoli street food like arancini, fried pizza, and sfogliatella pastries.

Come hungry and expect crowds, but know it’s worth the wait.

9. San Gregorio Armeno 🎄

Known as “Christmas Alley,” this street is famous for its nativity workshops. Artisans here handcraft elaborate presepi (nativity figures), a tradition that dates back centuries.

Even outside the festive season, it’s fun to see the quirky figurines – some even depict modern politicians or footballers!

10. Castel dell’Ovo 🐚

Set on a little island linked by a causeway, Castel dell’Ovo is the oldest castle in Naples. Its name comes from a legend about a magical egg hidden in its foundations.

Climb to the top for sweeping views across the bay and Mount Vesuvius. Afterwards, wander the Borgo Marinaro, a charming fishing quarter at its base.

11. Galleria Umberto I 🛍️

This grand 19th-century arcade is all glass, iron, and marble – a beautiful place to stop between sightseeing. Inside are shops, cafes, and plenty of opportunities to admire the soaring dome above.

It’s free to wander and makes a good quick stop, especially on a hot afternoon when you need shade.

12. Santa Chiara Monastery 🌸

Santa Chiara is both peaceful and beautiful, with a Gothic basilica and a cloister decorated with colourful tiled columns. The cloister garden is especially photogenic and feels worlds away from the busy streets outside.

There’s also a small museum with archaeological finds and religious artefacts – worth a browse if you have time. Book your tickets here.

13. Street Food Tour 🍤

From fried pizza to sfogliatella pastries, Naples street food is as legendary as its pizza. The best way to experience it all is to join a food tour with a local guide who knows the top spots.

Don’t miss arancini, fritto misto (fried seafood), and an espresso at a standing bar.

If you prefer to explore solo, head to Pignasecca Market and Via Toledo for stalls piled high with treats. Bring cash and an appetite!

Helpful Tips for Visiting Naples 📝

✨ Wear comfy shoes – The cobblestones in the historic centre are charming but not kind on feet. Pack sneakers or cushioned sandals for all the walking.

🚇 Use the metro – Naples traffic can be chaotic, so the metro is often quicker. Toledo station is also one of the most beautiful in Europe, so worth a stop just for the art.

🍕 Plan for pizza queues – The most famous pizzerias (like Sorbillo) can have long waits. Either go early, late, or be patient – it’s worth it!

🎒 Keep belongings close – Naples is safe for tourists, but petty theft can happen in crowded areas. An anti-theft sling bag or money belt gives peace of mind.

☀️ Stay hydrated – Summers get seriously hot. Carry a reusable water bottle – many piazzas have free public fountains with fresh drinking water.

⏰ Book big attractions ahead – Popular spots like the Catacombs and the Archaeological Museum sell out in peak season.

🍦 Don’t skip the gelato – Naples does creamy, dreamy gelato almost as well as pizza. Treat yourself at least once (or twice).

Map of the Best Things to Do in Naples 🗺️

To make exploring easier, I’ve pinned all the best things to do in Naples on the map below.