Naples, Italy’s third-largest city, is a fantastic travel destination. It’s one of my favourite cities in Italy, as it’s full of fascinating history, culture, and world-class cuisine. For first-time visitors, navigating Naples can be both exciting and overwhelming. Compared to other Italian cities (like Florence and Venice), Naples is far less pristine and polished. There is an edginess and grittiness to Naples that tourists might not expect.

This is actually what I like about Naples; you feel like you’re in a real city, surrounded by real Italians going about their daily lives. In this blog post, I’ll share my tips and insights to help make your first visit to Naples as smooth, easy and enjoyable as possible.

Sightseeing 

Naples’ historic centre is a treasure trove of historical landmarks so start your visit in Piazza del Plebiscito, a grand square flanked by the Royal Palace and the San Francesco di Paola church. Nearby, you’ll find the Naples National Archaeological Museum, home to an enormous collection of Roman artefacts, including those unearthed at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Explore the narrow alleys of the Spaccanapoli district and the Spanish Quarter, lined with churches, artisan shops, and cafes, taking plenty of time to admire Naples’ Cathedral (Duomi di Napoli).

The city is also famous for its underground sites, like the Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea), where you can explore ancient Roman and Greek ruins. Make sure to include a visit to the Castel dell’Ovo (the city’s oldest castle), and Castel Sant’Elmo (a medieval fortress with panoramic views). Don’t miss the Capodimonte Royal Palace and Museum, a former royal residence turned museum that houses works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. For more ideas about how to spend your time in Naples, check out my post on Naples’s Top Attractions, Activities and Must-Try Food.

Popular Day Trips

Naples’ location makes it a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. Pompeii and Herculaneum, two ancient Roman cities frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life. A thrilling hike up Mount Vesuvius, accompanied by spectacular views, can be easily combined with a day trip to Pompeii. For breathtaking coastal views, consider a trip to the Amalfi Coast, where charming towns like Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello await.

The island of Capri is another popular day trip, known for its stunning beaches, upscale boutiques and the famous Blue Grotto. Other popular islands including Ischia and Procida, where you will find fewer tourists and smaller crowds. If you’re interested in hiking, the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) offers a stunning trail with views of the coast. Lastly, for something a bit more off the beaten track, head to the peaceful port town of Pozzuoli for leisurely strolls along the waterfront and a seafood lunch overlooking the shore.

Opening Hours

Many attractions and shops in Naples take a midday break or “riposo” (similar to a Spanish siesta) typically from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Museums and archaeological sites are usually open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though some close one day a week (often on Mondays). It’s always a good idea to check specific opening times in advance. Churches tend to open early in the morning and close around lunchtime, reopening in the late afternoon. Restaurants normally open for lunch around 12:30 PM and for dinner around 7:30 PM.

Food and Dining Out

The food scene in Naples is spectacular and varied; you can find casual street food, upmarket restaurants and everything in between. Trattorias and osterias are popular choices for traditional, home-cooked meals, while pizzerias are perfect for a quick bite of authentic Neapolitan pizza. 

Here are some must-try dishes not to be missed in Naples:

1. Pizza: A visit to Naples wouldn’t be complete without trying an iconic Margherita and Marinara pizza. You’ll be blown away by the depth of flavour in these mouthwatering dishes, showcasing the region’s finest ingredients.
2. Pizza Fritta: You may have eaten Neapolitan pizza before, but have you had it deep-fried? Try this delicious stuffed pizza at places like 1947 Pizza Fritta Napoli.
3. Street Food: Some great on-the-go snacks include Cuoppo (fried seafood) and Frittatina di Pasta (a deep-fried pasta cake filled with béchamel, ham, and peas).
4. Sweet Treats: I can’t get enough of Neapolitan pastries like Sfogliatella (a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta, semolina, and citrus zest) and Rum Baba (a rum-soaked sponge cake). 
5. Traditional Dishes: Neapolitan cuisine includes some rich and hearty dishes, including Pasta alla Genovese (a tasty meat and onion sauce served over pasta) and Ragù Napoletano (a slow-cooked tomato and meat sauce served with pasta). 
6. Seafood: Freshly caught and simply prepared, seafood is a staple in Neapolitan cuisine. Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams, garlic, olive oil, and parsley) is an unmissable dish in Naples.

Keep in mind that Italians usually have dinner later in the evening, around 8pm or 9pm, so plan your meal times accordingly. Tipping in restaurants is not obligatory but is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is a polite gesture. 

Where to Stay in Naples

Naples has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and traveller types – from basic hostels and B&Bs in lively, central neighbourhoods like the Historic Centre or near Piazza Garibaldi, to comfortable mid-range hotels in Chiaia or Vomero, and upscale boutique or luxury stays with sea views along the Lungomare or in elegant neighbourhoods.

Here are some options to consider:

• Terrazza Garibaldi ($$) – Located around 10 minutes walk from Garibaldi train station, this budget-friendly hotel is also walking distance from several top attractions, and has a terrace for guests to enjoy too.
• Vulcania Rooms ($$) – A well-reviewed guesthouse in central Naples with clean, air-conditioned rooms and balconies overlooking the city, offering great access to historic sights, transport and the port at very good value for money.
• Suite Cervantes ($$) – Stylish, quiet serviced accommodation in Naples’ historic centre, located close to eateries and Metro stops and praised by guests for being well-equipped and peaceful despite the busy city surroundings.
• Relais Sole($$) – A comfortable guesthouse near Naples’ historic centre with clean, modern rooms, free Wi-Fi and easy walking access to attractions, the port and public transport, making it a convenient base for city exploration.
• Artemisia Domus Giardino ($$$) – Housed in a historical building, this hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms just minutes away walk Naples’ famous waterfront promenade, giving you stunning views of Mount Vesuvius.

Getting Around Naples

Naples has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. The city’s metro is an efficient way to reach the city’s major attractions and key areas. Tickets are affordable at around €1.20 for a 90-minute journey and you can use contactless card payment. There are also lots of bus routes, and funiculars connecting the city centre with the hilltop districts of Vomero and Posillipo. 

Walking is often the best way to explore Naples’ narrow streets and hidden gems, but taxis and ride-sharing services are also available (make sure the driver uses a meter or you agree on a fare beforehand). For day trips, use the Circumvesuviana train or Trenitalia’s regional trains for destinations like Pompeii, Herculaneum and Sorrento. Always remember to tap out with your contactless card to avoid being charged the maximum daily price (something I learned the hard way!).

Cultural Etiquette

Neapolitans are known for their warmth and friendliness, and the best way to get in their good books is to respect the local customs and culture. For example, dressing modestly and behaving respectfully in the cathedral, churches, and other religious sites.

A great way to immerse yourself in the local culture is taking part in La Passeggiata; join the locals in their evening stroll along the Lungomare waterfront or through the city’s streets. It’s ideal for people-watching and burning off some of the calories from your delicious meals. 

When to Visit

The best time to visit Naples is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller. July and August can be incredibly hot and crowded, while winters are generally cooler and rainy.

Easter is an extra special time to visit Naples, which is famous for its religious events and festivities like the Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross) procession. If you visit in the autumn, you can enjoy the San Gennaro Feast (September 19) which honours the city’s patron saint San Gennaro. There’s also the Naples Film Festival in late September, an international film festival showcasing Italian and foreign films, which brings filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles to the city.

Where to Stay

 The city has a variety of different neighbourhoods to stay in, depending on your budget and interests. For first-time visitors, the historic centre (Centro Storico) offers easy access to major sights, while the Chiaia district provides a more upscale, quieter vibe with its seaside promenade. The Vomero area, located on a hill, offers beautiful views and is less crowded. If you prefer modern hotels, the Lungomare Caracciolo area is a great choice. 

How Long to Stay

A three to four-day stay is ideal for a first-time visit to Naples. It gives you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, go on a day trip, and sample the local cuisine at a leisurely pace. If you plan to visit one of the archaeological sites, islands or the Amalfi Coast, consider extending your stay to a week to fully appreciate everything this region has to offer.

Language

Italian is the official language, but many people working in the tourist areas speak English. Don’t be afraid to try speaking Italian; locals often appreciate the effort and knowing a few basic words and phrases like “grazie” (thank you), “per favore” (please), and “scusi” (excuse me) go a long way. You might hear the locals speaking a local Neapolitano dialect but don’t worry, no one will expect you to understand it – standard Italian or English will be fine!

E-Sims Cards

If you need reliable internet during your holiday and don’t want to rely on temperamental public Wi-FI, check out Airalo. This company offers E-SIM cards which can be used in 200 countries. My partner and I have personally used Airalo several times and find the E-SIMs to be very easy to set up and use. Airalo offers E-SIM cards for 7, 15 or 30 days, with a variety of data packages, making them perfect for long and short trips!

Common Scams and Tourist Traps

Naples is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist areas and on public transport, and use a bag that can be securely zipped/locked. Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid carrying large sums of cash (you can pay for almost everything in Naples by credit/debit card). 

None of us like being overcharged just because we’re tourists. To avoid this, make sure to only ride with taxi drivers who use a metre or agree to a set price. You might see aggressive touts standing outside restaurants which offer ‘tourist menus’; keep walking past these as there are so many amazing, authentic restaurants in Naples which don’t need to convince customers to come inside. Always check the menu prices and ask for a receipt whether in a restaurant or shop.

I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Naples and know what to expect. From ancient ruins and bustling streets to world-renowned pizza and fascinating day trips within easy reach, I think Naples has so much to offer first-time and repeat visitors. Please let me know if you have any other questions. Buon Viaggio!

Ciao for now

Izzie, the Curious Sparrow