Naples (Napoli) is the uncrowned capital of southern Italy, where life pulses in all its raw reality. The city lies at the foot of Vesuvius, by one of the world's most beautiful bays, covered by thousands of years of historical layers. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, the cradle of the Neapolitan song and the purest expression of the Italian temperament. Discover the 10 best sights of the city and its surroundings with us!
1. Pompeii ruins
Pompeii is one of the world's most astonishing archaeological sites, the city buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 was preserved almost intact beneath the volcanic ash. Walking through the excavated area, you can admire ancient streets, villas, baths and even an amphitheatre. The frescoes and mosaics are an unparalleled record of everyday Roman life. It's worth setting aside a whole day to explore the ruins, comfortable shoes and water are essential.
2. Panorama of the Bay of Naples
The Bay of Naples is one of the most iconic vistas in the whole Mediterranean. From the Posillipo hill, the terrace of Castel Sant'Elmo or the Mergellina promenade, an amazing panorama unfolds before you: the blue sea, the cone of Vesuvius and the silhouette of the island of Capri. At sunset the sight is especially magical, when the sky turns orange and pink. It's worth having dinner at one of the seafront restaurants while enjoying the view.
3. Spaccanapoli street
The Spaccanapoli ("that which splits Naples") is the main artery of the historic centre, cutting the old town in two in a straight line. This narrow, bustling street is full of Baroque churches, craft shops, pizzerias and local life. Along the street a new discovery awaits at every step: workshops making nativity figures, street vendors and small chapels. Spaccanapoli is a true Naples experience, here you really feel the city's pulse.
4. Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell'Ovo (the Egg Castle) is Naples's oldest fortress, standing on a small peninsula by the sea. The castle's name comes from a legend that Virgil hid an egg in its foundations, and if the egg breaks, Naples will be destroyed. The interior of the castle can be visited free of charge, and from the top there's a wonderful view over the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. The Borgo Marinari fishing village at the foot of the castle is famous for its atmospheric restaurants.
5. National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)
The Naples National Archaeological Museum is home to one of the world's most important collections of antiquities. Most of the frescoes, sculptures and mosaics unearthed at Pompeii and Herculaneum are here, including the famous Alexander Mosaic. The monumental Greek and Roman sculptures of the Farnese Collection, such as the Farnese Bull, are breathtaking. The museum is a must for anyone who also visits Pompeii.
6. Island of Capri
Capri is the jewellery box of the Bay of Naples, already treasured as a favourite resort by the ancient Romans. The island's chief attraction is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), where sunrays fill the underwater world with turquoise light. Strolling the island, you'll find Mediterranean gardens, panoramic viewpoints and an elegant row of boutiques. To Monte Solaro, rising above the village of Anacapri, you can go up by chairlift, the view is unforgettable.
7. Vesuvius
Vesuvius is one of Europe's most dangerous active volcanoes, yet it draws determined hikers all the same. The walk to the crater rim from the car park takes about 30–40 minutes, and the view from the top is unparalleled. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Sorrento Peninsula and Capri. The volcano last erupted in 1944, and volcanologists constantly monitor its activity.
8. Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Castel Nuovo, popularly known as the Maschio Angioino, is an imposing medieval fortress standing by the harbour of Naples. Built in 1282, the castle with its huge round towers and triumphal-arch gate is one of Naples's most iconic sights. The castle museum displays 14th–15th-century paintings and sculptures. The entrance triumphal arch is an excellent example of Renaissance sculpture, depicting the entry of Alfonso of Aragon.
9. Via San Gregorio Armeno
Via San Gregorio Armeno is Naples's most famous craft street, where nativity scenes (presepe) are sold all year round. The Neapolitan nativity tradition is part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and the masters make the figures using centuries-old techniques. On the street you'll find not only holy figures but also caricatures of famous people, footballers, politicians, film stars. Around Christmas the street takes on an especially magical atmosphere.
10. Neapolitan pizza – L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and a trip to Naples isn't complete without tasting an authentic pizza margherita. L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele has been operating since 1870 and makes only two kinds of pizza: margherita and marinara. The secret lies in the simplicity: San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil and excellent olive oil. The pizzeria became world-famous thanks to the film "Eat, Pray, Love", but the queue is worth it.
Practical tips
- Transport: The Circumvesuviana train is ideal for reaching Pompeii, Herculaneum and Sorrento. In the city the metro and buses can be used too, but the centre is best explored on foot.
- Safety: Watch your valuables, especially in crowded places. Pickpocketing from a scooter (scippo) is rare but does happen, keep your bag on the wall side.
- Dining: Neapolitan street food is among the world's best: pizza a taglio (pizza by the slice), sfogliatella (a shell-shaped pastry) and babà (a rum cake) are all a must.
- Day pass: The Artecard Napoli offers combined admissions and a transport pass, especially worth it for a multi-day stay.
- eSIM: With an Italian eSIM you stay connected at all times and can quickly find the best restaurants and routes on your phone, with no roaming fee.