Top 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Naples, Italy

A visit to Piazza del Plebiscito is like a visit to a great open-air museum. It is one of the largest squares in Italy and is perfect for strolling while you admire the emblematic Basilica di San Francesco di Paola with its majestic colonnades. Don't miss the unique thrill of walking blindfolded between the two equestrian statues! Just a short walk away is the Royal Palace, where history comes alive in every opulent room.

Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, a paradise for history buffs. The museum houses an extensive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities and is most famous for the mosaics from Pompeii. Delve deep into the past with the priceless treasures of the Secret Cabinet. Located just 800 meters from Piazza Dante, it's a treasure trove not to be missed! Afterwards, grab a pizza at a small traditional pizzeria around the corner to end your tour in pure Neapolitan style.

Discover the haunting beauty of Naples at the famous Castel dell'Ovo. With its history dating back to Roman times and its breathtaking architecture, it is an awe-inspiring sight. Located on the island of Megaride, it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the sea. Discover the crypt of the Roman villa below, which few tourists know about! Just a short walk along the waterfront will take you to the Royal Palace of Naples, which will enrich your historical journey.

Castel Sant'Elmo, towering over Naples, is a must-see! This star-shaped fortress offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the city, Mount Vesuvius and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. It dates back to 1329 and is full of history and intrigue. Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the ancient halls. The nearby Certosa di San Martino is equally enchanting, with beautiful gardens and a fascinating museum to explore.

Venture off the typical tourist trail to the remarkable Herculaneum Archaeological Park in Naples. Here you'll discover a wealth of ancient Roman relics remarkably preserved by the ashes of Mount Vesuvius. Be amazed by the vivid frescoes and antiquities seemingly frozen in time from that fateful day in 79 AD. The site is less crowded than its famous neighbor Pompeii, so the atmosphere is quiet. The Santuario Maria SS. delle Grazie a Bellavista, a temple with panoramic views, is nearby and invites you to a spiritual visit.

Explore the famous Castel Nuovo, a majestic architectural marvel and symbol of Naples. This 13th-century castle is bursting with historical intrigue and houses chapels, frescoes and sculptures that will transport you back to medieval Italy. Don't miss the Arc de Triomphe, an exquisite example of 15th-century art. The castle, which once housed kings and queens, offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Just a stone's throw away is Piazza Municipio, one of the city's lively meeting places, ideal for a lively Italian evening.

The Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara is more than a church, it is an impressive ensemble of religious architecture from the 14th century. Century. Discover the cloister adorned with colorful majolica tiles, the archaeological museum, and a peaceful garden that invites introspection. Here you'll also find fascinating echoes of Naples' rich past. Just around the corner is the famous Piazza del Gesù, where you can enjoy a classic Neapolitan espresso.

Immerse yourself in the mysterious past of Naples by entering the "underground Naples". A labyrinth of tunnels, catacombs and hidden passages that lies 40 meters below the bustling city and is 2400 years old. Excavations reveal stories of World War II bomb shelters, ancient aqueducts and secret escape routes from royal palaces. Just a stone's throw away is Piazza Del Plebiscito, a majestic semi-circular square not to be missed. Don't forget comfortable shoes, the adventure is worth it.

The Royal Palace of Naples is a must-see for its luxurious ambience, steeped in history. Admire the breathtaking great halls, the royal apartments and the impressive theater - all under one roof. Bonus tip: Don't miss the mesmerizing view of Naples from the palace's rooftop terrace! The nearby San Carlo Theater and the impressive Galleria Umberto I are just a leisurely stroll away! Experience the extravagant life of Neapolitan royalty and immerse yourself in rich cultural stories all within a stone's throw of each other.

Unleash your inner history buff at the magnificent Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, a must-see in Naples. Be enchanted by the magnificent Gothic architecture and marvel at the world-famous San Gennaro Chapel.

Discover the haunting beauty of the Catacombs of San Gennaro. Delve deep into the history of Naples as you explore the vast network of underground burial chambers that date back to the 3rd century. Admire the frescoes that have survived the centuries, depicting early Christian art and giving insight into the religious beliefs of the time. Unique is the oldest image of St. Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples. Just a few steps away, you can also visit the equally fascinating catacombs of San Gaudioso.

The San Carlo Theater is a must-see, not only for opera lovers, but for anyone with a sense of elegance. This magnificent royal blue auditorium, aglow with golden light, was built even before Milan's La Scala! Imagine sitting in the plush red velvet seats where kings and queens once resided. And then, when you leave the hall, enchanted by the music, you are just a few steps away from the breathtaking Galleria Umberto I, a glass-roofed arcade that serves as a shopping oasis.

Discover the divine splendor of the Certosa e Museo di San Martino, a former monastery now used as a museum. Marvel at the exquisite architecture of the Neapolitan Baroque, the enchanting cloister and the impressive view of the city and the bay that will make your heart beat faster. Discover Naples' historical treasures, from ornate nativity scenes to naval artifacts. Nearby, the equally stunning Castel Sant'Elmo offers 360-degree panoramic views of Naples and becomes a must-see cultural walk.

Not for the faint of heart, the Catacombs of San Gaudioso are a fascinating historical journey. These ancient catacombs, located beneath the serene Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, offer a glimpse into early Christian burials and spiritual customs. Here you can see the crypts of bishops, 5th-century frescoes, and the eerie skull of San Gaudioso himself. Stroll through nearby Rione Sanità, a colorful neighborhood with authentic Neapolitan life, recommended restaurants, and the inspiring Palazzo Sanfelice.

Discover the fascinating history of Naples on the authorized guided tour of Napoli Sotterranea. A labyrinth of tunnels, cisterns and hidden passages located 40 meters below the busy city streets. Transport yourself to another time, with bomb shelters and relics from World War II. Be captivated by captivating tour guides who will give you riveting accounts of past events in numerous languages. Just minutes away, enjoy the beauty of Piazza San Gaetano and be enchanted by the history and culture above ground - the perfect complement to your underground exploration.

Delve into the fascinating underworld of Naples at Galleria Borbonica, a hidden wonder deep in a maze of tunnels. Dating back to Bourbon times, the fascinating labyrinth houses mysterious artifacts and a rich history. Guided tours allow you to see an exciting side of the city's past. Nearby you will find the elegant Royal Palace and Piazza del Plebiscito, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city after your underground adventure.

The Museum of the Sansevero Chapel is a jewel to be seen. It houses mysterious works of art that will captivate you! The main attraction, the "Veiled Christ" by Giuseppe Sanmartino, is a marble masterpiece that expresses fine details and intense emotions. Explore the anatomical machines: amazing representations of human veins and arteries! Nearby, stroll through the remarkable architecture of Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. Visit this compact but captivating museum and experience the surreal side of Naples!