Citalia's Guide to Naples: Best Things to See, Do & Eat

Naples is a bustling city with plenty to see, do and eat. Busy streets, deep history and some of the best food in Italy. Whether you’re going for the food, the culture or atmosphere, Naples has something for everyone.

We’ve put together an all-in-one Naples travel guide, full of expert tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your trip. Read on to discover more.

Things to do in Naples

Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum

Only a short train ride from central Naples, the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum provide an impressive glimpse into Roman life before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Pompeii is the larger of the two sites, where you’ll find ruins of old bathhouses to amphitheatres, while Herculaneum offers a more intimate experience, with intact homes, mosaics and even carbonised wooden furniture. Both sites are a must for history lovers.

Explore Spaccanapoli

Spaccanapoli is one of the oldest streets in Naples and runs right through the city’s historic centre. It’s a great place to wander, with churches, cafés and street food stalls lining the way. You’ll see authentic Neapolitan life up close, with locals chatting, Vespas zipping by and plenty of places to stop for a coffee or a quick slice of pizza, a Naples classic.

Catacombs di San Gennaro

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, the Catacombs of San Gennaro are well worth a visit. These underground burial chambers date back nearly 2,000 years. Guided tours take you through dimly lit tunnels filled with history, from early Christian art to the resting place of San Gennaro, the city’s patron saint.

Discover ‘Christmas Alley’

Christmas Alley or Via San Gregorio Armeno is a small street in the historic centre known for its handmade nativity scenes or presepi, and is busy year-round, not just in winter. Local artists craft everything from traditional religious figures to modern pop culture characters, all in miniature.

See the Colourful Tiles of Santa Chiara Cloister

The Santa Chiara Cloister is a peaceful spot tucked away in the city centre, known for its beautiful hand painted tiles. The 18th-century majolica tiles cover benches, walkways and columns and are decorated with scenes of nature, everyday life and traditional patterns. It’s a quiet escape from the busy streets and a great place to slow down and take in some traditional Neapolitan craftsmanship.

Catch a Performance at Teatro San Carlo

Teatro San Carlo is the oldest working opera house in Italy and it’s still putting shows on today. They host opera, ballet and classical concerts year-round and tickets can be surprisingly affordable. Even if you’re not a huge fan of opera, it’s well worth a visit to take in the design of this expansive theatre. Think gold trim, red velvet and pure opulence.

What to eat in Naples

Naples is a food haven, where culture, character and cuisine align. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and trying an authentic Neapolitan Margherita is essential. Made with soft, chewy dough and simple high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil, it is cooked quickly in a woodfired oven to achieve its distinctive charred crust. Another local dish is Spaghetti alle Vongole, a dish that includes fresh clams, white wine and plenty of garlic and parsley. For a quick bite on the go, look out for Cuoppo, a paper cone full of an assortment of fried seafood or vegetables, a popular street food in the city.

Naples is also known for its selection of snacks, baked goods and pastries. Pagnottiello is a rustic sandwich filled with cheese, salami and eggs, often eaten as a light lunch. For dessert, Sfogliatella is a local favourite available in two flavours, riccia with its crispy layered shell and frolla, which uses a pastry similar to shortcrust. Both are filled with a combination of ricotta, semolina and candied citrus peel.

Where to stay in Naples

Hotel Paradiso Napoli

Situated on the famous Posillipo Hill
Stunning views over Naples and the Gulf of Naples

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Palazzo Caracciolo

Perfectly located for those wanting to explore Naples
Stylish guest rooms and excellent hospitality
Historic hotel dating from 13th Century

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Hotel Palazzo Alabardieri

An elegant, four star hotel perfect for couples
Convenient central location

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Ready to Experience Naples?

If you’re ready to start planning your Naples adventure, you can easily book online today to enjoy fantastic offers at our resorts or get in touch with one of our Italy Experts who are on hand to help you design your dream Italian escape.

Excursions & Experiences in Naples

Naples Street Food Walking Tour Tour the streets of Naples and discover the history of local foods

Historical and Panoramic Walking Tour of Naples Breath-taking panorama of the Gulf of Naples

Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples Step back in time and explore the two most important archaeological sites of Italy

Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.

01293 900934 Or Make an enquiry

Citalia's Guide to Naples: Best Things to See, Do & Eat

Things to do in Naples

Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum

Explore Spaccanapoli

Catacombs di San Gennaro

Discover ‘Christmas Alley’

See the Colourful Tiles of Santa Chiara Cloister

Catch a Performance at Teatro San Carlo

What to eat in Naples

Where to stay in Naples

Hotel Paradiso Napoli

Palazzo Caracciolo

Hotel Palazzo Alabardieri

Ready to Experience Naples?

Excursions & Experiences in Naples

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