Naples
Photo: Josef Faustmann / Unsplash
Key Facts
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to October (warm, fewer crowds than summer)
Language
Italian, Neapolitan dialect widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1), CEST (UTC+2) in summer
Airport
Naples International Airport (NAP) — 6 km from city center, 20 mins by Alibus
Population
~920,000 (city proper); ~3 million (metro area)
Climate
Mediterranean, avg 8-30°C; hot dry summers, mild wet winters
Safety Rating
Moderate (Level 2) — exercise normal precautions; petty theft and scooter bag-snatching occur in some areas
UNESCO Status
Historic Centre of Naples — World Heritage Site since 1995
Top Highlights
Spaccanapoli
The ancient arrow-straight street that 'splits Naples in two,' lined with churches, artisan workshops, and street food stalls. Walk from Via Benedetto Croce to Via dei Tribunali. Free to explore, allow 2-3 hours. Visit in the morning for less chaos.
Pompeii Archaeological Park
The Roman city frozen in time by Vesuvius' 79 AD eruption, 30 mins from Naples by Circumvesuviana train (€4). Entry: €18. Open daily 9AM-5:30PM (7PM in summer). Allow 4-5 hours minimum. Hire a guide (~€130/2hrs for groups) to avoid missing key houses.
Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples)
A network of Greek-Roman tunnels, aqueducts, and WWII bomb shelters 40 meters below the streets. Guided tours depart from Piazza San Gaetano every 1-2 hours. Entry: €12. Allow 1.5 hours. Not for the claustrophobic — one passage is just 50cm wide.
Mount Vesuvius
Hike to the crater rim of mainland Europe's only active volcano. Take the EAV bus from Ercolano station to the trailhead. Entry: €10 plus €3 bus. The summit trail is 1 km (30 mins uphill). Views span the entire Bay of Naples. Allow 3-4 hours round trip from the city.
National Archaeological Museum (MANN)
Houses the world's finest collection of Roman artifacts, including Pompeii mosaics and the Farnese collection of Greek sculptures. Entry: €18. Open Wed-Mon 9AM-7:30PM (closed Tuesdays). Allow 2-3 hours. The Secret Cabinet of erotic Roman art is not to be missed.
Pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Open since 1870, this legendary pizzeria serves only two types: marinara (€5) and margherita (€6). Featured in Eat Pray Love. Queue starts forming at 11AM — arrive early or go at 3PM for shorter waits. Cash only. Via Cesare Sersale 1.
Castel dell'Ovo
Naples' oldest castle on a tiny island connected to the Borgo Marinari waterfront. Free entry. Open Mon-Sat 9AM-6:30PM, Sun 9AM-1:30PM. Climb to the terrace for panoramic bay views. The surrounding harbor has excellent seafood restaurants. Allow 1 hour.
Sfogliatella at Pintauro
Try Naples' signature pastry — the crispy, ricotta-filled sfogliatella — at Pintauro (Via Toledo 275), making them since 1785. A sfogliatella riccia costs about €2.50. Open early morning to late evening. The warm, freshly baked ones are best before 10AM.
Planned Itinerary
7-Day Naples Itinerary
Arrival & First Pizza in Naples
Arrive at Naples International Airport and take the Alibus to the city center (20 min, €5). Check into your hotel in the centro storico and immediately get your first real Neapolitan pizza.
Alibus from airport to Piazza Garibaldi(20 minutes)
Runs every 15-20 min, €5. Tickets from the newsstand inside arrivals or on the bus. Drops you at the central station
Check into hotel in centro storico(45 minutes)
Stay in the historic center for walkability. Hotel Piazza Bellini (€90/night) or Decumani Hotel de Charme (€110/night) are well-located near Spaccanapoli
Pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele(1 hour)
Open since 1870. Only marinara (€5) or margherita (€6). Queue starts at 11AM — go at 3PM for shorter waits. Cash only. Via Cesare Sersale 1
Evening walk along Via Toledo(1.5 hours)
Naples' main shopping street. Walk from Piazza Dante to Piazza del Plebiscito — Naples' grandest square with the Royal Palace and San Francesco di Paola church. Stop at Pintauro for a warm sfogliatella (€2.50)
Spaccanapoli & Underground Naples
Walk the arrow-straight ancient street that splits Naples in two, then descend 40 meters below the streets into Greek-Roman tunnels.
Walk Spaccanapoli end to end(2.5 hours)
Start at Via Benedetto Croce and walk east through Via dei Tribunali. Artisan workshops (nativity figurine makers on Via San Gregorio Armeno), churches, and street food stalls. Visit the Chapel of Sansevero (€8) for the incredible Veiled Christ sculpture
Sfogliatella at Pintauro(15 minutes)
Via Toledo 275. Since 1785. The warm riccia (crispy) version before 10AM is transcendent. €2.50
Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples)(1.5 hours)
Guided tours from Piazza San Gaetano every 1-2 hours. Greek-Roman aqueducts, WWII bomb shelters, 40m below ground. Entry €12. One passage is only 50cm wide — not for the claustrophobic
Lunch at Di Matteo(45 minutes)
Via dei Tribunali 94. Famous for pizza fritta (fried pizza, €3) — a folded calzone deep-fried to crispy perfection. Bill Clinton ate here. Queue moves fast
San Gregorio Armeno nativity street(45 minutes)
Artisan workshops making presepe (nativity) figurines year-round. Modern figures include footballers and politicians alongside Mary and Joseph. A uniquely Neapolitan tradition
Dinner at Tandem(1.5 hours)
Via Giovanni Paladino 51. Famous for ragù napoletano — beef and pork slow-cooked 6-8 hours. Pasta al ragù €8. Small, loud, authentic
Pompeii Day Trip
Take the Circumvesuviana train 30 minutes to the Roman city frozen in time by Vesuvius' 79 AD eruption. An essential day trip from Naples.
Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii Scavi(35 minutes)
Board at Napoli Garibaldi (below Centrale station). €4. Trains every 30 min. Hold your bags close — pickpocketing happens
Pompeii Archaeological Park(4.5 hours)
Entry €18. Open daily 9AM-5:30PM. Hire a guide (~€130/2hrs for groups) to avoid missing key houses. Must-sees: Villa dei Misteri (frescoes), House of the Faun, the Forum, the amphitheater, and the plaster casts of victims
Lunch at Il Principe inside Pompeii site(45 minutes)
The on-site café is basic but saves time. Or exit and eat at President on Piazza Schettini — seafood mains €12-18, terrace facing the ruins
Evening pizza at Sorbillo(1 hour)
Via dei Tribunali 32. The other legendary pizzeria. Their fried pizza appetizer and margherita DOC (buffalo mozzarella, €8) are outstanding. Expect a queue
National Archaeological Museum & Castel dell'Ovo
Morning at the world's finest Roman artifact collection, afternoon at the waterfront castle with bay views.
National Archaeological Museum (MANN)(2.5 hours)
Pompeii mosaics, Farnese Hercules, Secret Cabinet of Roman erotica. Entry €18. Open Wed-Mon 9AM-7:30PM (closed Tue). Allow 2-3 hours minimum
Lunch at Pizzeria Starita(1 hour)
Via Materdei 27-28. Since 1901. Featured in the Sophia Loren film 'L'Oro di Napoli.' Their pizza al portafoglio (folded wallet-style, €3) is a quick lunch. Or sit for the full margherita experience (€7)
Walk to Castel dell'Ovo via lungomare(45 minutes)
Walk the seafront promenade from Mergellina to the castle. Views of Vesuvius across the bay, Capri on the horizon
Explore Castel dell'Ovo(1 hour)
Naples' oldest castle on a tiny island. Free entry. Climb to the terrace for panoramic bay views. Mon-Sat 9AM-6:30PM, Sun 9AM-1:30PM
Dinner at Borgo Marinari(1.5 hours)
The small harbor below the castle has excellent seafood restaurants. Try Zi Teresa or La Bersagliera for fresh catch of the day (€18-24) with a waterfront table
Mount Vesuvius Hike
Hike to the crater rim of mainland Europe's only active volcano for spectacular views over the entire Bay of Naples.
Circumvesuviana to Ercolano Scavi station(20 minutes)
€3 from Napoli Garibaldi. Then EAV bus to the Vesuvius trailhead (€3, 30 min drive up the mountain)
Hike to Vesuvius crater rim(1.5 hours)
Entry €10 at the gate. The trail is 1 km uphill (30 min each way). Wear proper shoes — volcanic gravel is loose. Views span the entire bay — Capri, Ischia, Naples, and Pompeii below
Bus back to Ercolano and visit Herculaneum(2 hours)
Better-preserved than Pompeii and far less crowded. Entry €13. Wood furniture, mosaics, and carbonized food survived under 20m of volcanic mud. Allow 1.5-2 hours
Late lunch at Viva lo Re in Ercolano(1 hour)
Corso Resina 261. Excellent Neapolitan food near the Herculaneum entrance. Pizza fritta €4, pasta alla genovese (onion-braised beef, €9)
Rest Day & Naples Street Food Tour
A slower day exploring Naples' food culture at street level — cuoppo, sfogliatella, babà, and the city's incredible markets.
Sleep in and espresso at the bar(1 hour)
Stand at a local bar, order 'un caffè' (€1-1.50). The ritual is as important as the coffee. Try Caffè Gambrinus on Piazza Trieste e Trento for the grand experience
Pignasecca street market(1.5 hours)
Naples' oldest market near Via Toledo. Fresh fish, produce, street food stalls. Get a cuoppo di mare (paper cone of fried seafood, €5) from Friggitoria Vomero
Lunch at Trattoria da Nennella(1 hour)
Via Lungo Teatro Nuovo 103 in the Spanish Quarter. Raucous, hilarious, and the food is incredible value — full lunch with wine for €12-15. They literally throw bread to your table
Walk through the Spanish Quarters (Quartieri Spagnoli)(1 hour)
Grid of narrow streets originally built for Spanish troops. Laundry hanging above, shrines at corners, scooters everywhere. Raw, real, and endlessly photogenic
Babà and sfogliatella at Scaturchio(30 minutes)
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore 19. Since 1905. Their babà rum cake (€3) and Ministeriale chocolate are legendary
Dinner at Trianon da Ciro(1 hour)
Via Pietro Colletta 44. Directly across from Da Michele. Less famous but equally good pizza with no queue. Margherita €6, cosacca €5
Departure Day — Last Espresso & Farewell
Final morning in Naples. One more standing-at-the-bar espresso, last-minute shopping, and transfer to the airport.
Morning espresso at Caffè Mexico(20 minutes)
Piazza Dante 86. One of Naples' best espresso bars. Order at the cassa, take receipt to the bar. The caffè here is dark, strong, and perfect. €1
Last-minute souvenir shopping on Via San Gregorio Armeno(45 minutes)
Pick up a nativity figurine, limoncello, or Neapolitan moka pot. The figurine workshops ship internationally
Alibus to Naples Airport(20 minutes)
From Piazza Garibaldi. €5. Allow 2.5 hours before your flight
14-Day Naples Itinerary
Arrival & First Pizza
Arrive at Naples Airport, Alibus to center (20 min, €5). Check into hotel in centro storico. First real Neapolitan pizza.
Alibus from airport to Piazza Garibaldi(20 minutes)
€5. Runs every 15-20 min
Check into hotel in centro storico(45 minutes)
Hotel Piazza Bellini (€90/night) or Decumani Hotel de Charme (€110/night)
Pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele(1 hour)
Marinara €5, margherita €6. Cash only
Evening walk along Via Toledo(1.5 hours)
Sfogliatella at Pintauro (€2.50). End at Piazza del Plebiscito
Spaccanapoli & Underground Naples
The ancient heart of Naples — walk the arrow-straight street, then descend 40m underground.
Walk Spaccanapoli(2.5 hours)
Chapel of Sansevero (€8, Veiled Christ), artisan workshops, churches
Napoli Sotterranea(1.5 hours)
Greek-Roman tunnels. Entry €12
Lunch at Di Matteo(45 minutes)
Pizza fritta €3
Dinner at Tandem(1.5 hours)
Ragù napoletano. Pasta €8
Pompeii Day Trip
The Roman city frozen by Vesuvius' 79 AD eruption. Essential.
Circumvesuviana to Pompeii Scavi(35 minutes)
€4. Hold your bags close
Pompeii Archaeological Park(4.5 hours)
Entry €18. Guide ~€130/2hrs
Lunch at President near the ruins(45 minutes)
Seafood mains €12-18
Pizza at Sorbillo(1 hour)
Margherita DOC €8
MANN & Castel dell'Ovo
World-class Roman artifacts in the morning, waterfront castle in the afternoon.
National Archaeological Museum (MANN)(2.5 hours)
Entry €18. Pompeii mosaics, Farnese Hercules
Lunch at Pizzeria Starita(1 hour)
Pizza al portafoglio €3
Castel dell'Ovo(1 hour)
Free. Panoramic terrace
Dinner at Borgo Marinari(1.5 hours)
Seafood by the castle. Catch of the day €18-24
Vesuvius & Herculaneum
Hike the volcano in the morning, explore the better-preserved Roman city in the afternoon.
Circumvesuviana to Ercolano Scavi(20 minutes)
€3. Then EAV bus to trailhead (€3)
Vesuvius crater hike(1.5 hours)
Entry €10. 1 km trail. Bay views
Herculaneum(2 hours)
Entry €13. Better-preserved than Pompeii, far less crowded
Lunch at Viva lo Re(1 hour)
Pizza fritta €4, pasta alla genovese €9
Rest Day — Street Food & Markets
Slow day exploring Naples' food culture at street level.
Espresso at Caffè Gambrinus(30 minutes)
Grand café on Piazza Trieste e Trento. €1.50 standing
Pignasecca market(1.5 hours)
Cuoppo di mare €5
Lunch at Trattoria da Nennella(1 hour)
Spanish Quarter. Full lunch €12-15
Babà at Scaturchio(30 minutes)
€3. Piazza San Domenico
Dinner at Trianon da Ciro(1 hour)
Margherita €6
Capri Day Trip
Fast ferry to the glamorous island of Capri — Blue Grotto, chairlift to Monte Solaro, and world-class views.
Fast ferry from Molo Beverello to Capri(50 minutes)
SNAV or NLG. €22-25 each way. Departs every 30-60 min. Book day before in summer at capri.net
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)(1.5 hours)
Small rowboat enters a tiny cave opening to reveal electric-blue water. €18 (boat transfer + cave entry). Only possible in calm seas. Take the boat from Marina Grande
Chairlift to Monte Solaro from Anacapri(1 hour)
12-min ride to 589m. €12 round trip. 360° views — you can see the entire island, Bay of Naples, and Amalfi Coast. Bus from Marina Grande to Anacapri (€2)
Lunch at Lo Sfizio in Anacapri(1 hour)
Via Tomm. De Tommaso 7. Less touristy than Capri town. Ravioli caprese €12. Lemon granita for dessert
Walk through Capri Town and Via Camerelle(1 hour)
The Piazzetta is people-watching central (expensive coffee though — €8). Via Camerelle has luxury shopping. Walk to the Faraglioni viewpoint for the iconic rock stacks photo
Amalfi Coast Day Trip — Positano & Amalfi
Take the SITA bus along one of the world's most dramatic coastal roads to Positano and Amalfi Town.
Circumvesuviana to Sorrento(1.5 hours)
€5. Then SITA bus to Positano (€2.50, 45 min). Or take the direct ferry from Naples to Positano (€20, 90 min)
Explore Positano(2.5 hours)
Cascade of pastel houses down to the beach. Walk the stairs through town, browse the linen shops, swim at Spiaggia Grande. Expensive but beautiful — lunch at La Tagliata for mountain-side prix fixe (€35 for multi-course meal, book ahead)
SITA bus from Positano to Amalfi(40 minutes)
€2.50. The cliff-edge road is thrilling
Amalfi Cathedral and town(1.5 hours)
Climb the 62 steps to the 9th-century cathedral (€3 entry to Cloister of Paradise). The town square is charming for a limoncello stop
Certosa di San Martino & Vomero
Head uphill to the Vomero neighborhood for the stunning Certosa monastery museum and panoramic views, then explore this residential quarter.
Funicular from Via Toledo to Vomero(5 minutes)
Funicolare Centrale. Use your transit ticket (€1.50). The ride itself has glimpses of the city
Certosa e Museo di San Martino(2 hours)
14th-century Carthusian monastery with the best panoramic terrace in Naples. Baroque church, presepe (nativity) collection, and city history. Entry €6. Open Thu-Tue 8:30AM-7:30PM
Castel Sant'Elmo(1 hour)
Star-shaped fortress above the Certosa. Entry €5 (or free first Sunday of month). 360° views from the ramparts
Lunch at Friggitoria Fiorenzano(30 minutes)
Piazza Montesanto 8 (at the funicular base). Famous for crocchè (potato croquettes, €1) and panzerotti (€2.50). Queue is fast
Walk through Vomero shopping streets(1 hour)
Via Scarlatti and Via Giordano are Naples' upscale shopping streets — a different world from the centro storico. Coffee at Gran Caffè Cimmino
Dinner at Palazzo Petrucci(2 hours)
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore 4. Michelin-starred Neapolitan fine dining. Tasting menu from €80. Reserve well ahead
Rest Day — Seafront & Relaxation
Second rest day. Slow morning, lungomare walk, afternoon at the beach or thermal baths.
Walk the entire lungomare (Via Caracciolo)(1.5 hours)
3 km waterfront from Mergellina to Castel dell'Ovo. Vesuvius across the bay. Stop at Chalet Ciro for a lemon granita (€3)
Beach time at Bagno Elena(2 hours)
Historic lido at Posillipo. Entry €10 with lounger. Rocky platforms for swimming, crystal-clear water. Or take bus C21 to Gaiola marine park for free rocky beach
Dinner at Da Ettore(1.5 hours)
Via Santa Lucia 56. Classic Neapolitan trattoria near the waterfront. Their pasta e patate (pasta with potatoes, €8) is comfort food perfection
Ischia Day Trip — Hot Springs Island
Ferry to Ischia — a volcanic island with natural hot springs, gardens, and quieter beaches than Capri.
Ferry from Molo Beverello to Ischia Porto(1 hour)
Medmar or Caremar. Fast ferry €20-25 each way. Slower ferry €12. First departure ~7AM
Poseidon Thermal Gardens(3 hours)
20+ thermal pools at different temperatures on a beach. Entry €37 full day (€28 after 1PM). Bring swimsuit and towel. The most relaxing spot in the Bay of Naples
Lunch at Ristorante Braceria da Ciccio(1 hour)
Via Porto 1, Ischia Porto. Fresh seafood and wood-grilled meats. Their frittura di paranza (small fried fish, €12) is classic
Walk through Ischia Ponte and Aragonese Castle(1.5 hours)
15th-century castle on a small island connected by a causeway. Entry €10. Dramatic views. The old fisherman's village of Ischia Ponte is charming
Procida Day Trip
The smallest and most authentic island in the Bay of Naples — colorful Marina Corricella, no cars, and the set of the film 'Il Postino.'
Fast ferry to Procida(40 minutes)
SNAV from Molo Beverello. €15-18 each way. Much smaller and less touristy than Capri or Ischia
Walk to Marina Corricella(45 minutes)
The most photogenic fishing village in Italy — pastel houses stacked above the harbor. Where 'Il Postino' was filmed. Walk down from the port via the Terra Murata fortress
Swim at Spiaggia della Chiaia(1.5 hours)
Small beach accessible via a staircase cut into the rock. Clear water, few tourists. Bring your own supplies
Lunch at La Conchiglia on Chiaia beach(1.5 hours)
Seafood right on the beach. Their insalata di polpo (octopus salad, €12) and linguine allo scoglio (€14) are perfect
Walk the Terra Murata (fortified hilltop)(1 hour)
The highest point of the island. The Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo has panoramic views. Free
Cooking Class & Farewell Street Food
Learn to make real Neapolitan pizza in a hands-on class, then one final street food tour through the centro storico.
Pizza-making class(3 hours)
Several operators — Pizza Making Tour (from €65/person) or Walks of Italy. Learn dough stretching, tomato sauce, and wood-oven technique. You eat what you make
Free afternoon for last-minute exploration(2 hours)
Revisit your favorite corner of Naples, pick up limoncello and moka pots as souvenirs
Final street food crawl(1.5 hours)
Cuoppo at Pescheria Mattiucci (Via Cesare Carmignano), taralli at Il Tarallaro (Piazza San Gaetano), and one last espresso standing at Caffè Mexico
Farewell dinner at Antica Osteria Pisano(1.5 hours)
Piazzetta Cariati 9. Traditional Neapolitan since 1850. Their genovese (onion-braised beef ragù, €10) takes 8 hours to make. A fitting goodbye
Departure Day
Final morning in Naples. One more espresso, one more sfogliatella, then airport.
Morning espresso at Caffè Mexico(20 minutes)
Piazza Dante 86. The darkest, strongest coffee in Naples. €1
Last sfogliatella at Pintauro(15 minutes)
Via Toledo 275. Warm riccia. €2.50
Alibus to airport(20 minutes)
€5 from Piazza Garibaldi. Allow 2.5 hours before flight
21-Day Naples Itinerary
Arrival & First Pizza
Arrive at Naples Airport, Alibus to center. Check into apartment in centro storico for a 3-week stay. First Neapolitan pizza.
Alibus from airport to Piazza Garibaldi(20 minutes)
€5
Check into apartment near Spaccanapoli(45 minutes)
Apartment with kitchen from €50/night. Stock up at Conad supermarket
Pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele(1 hour)
Marinara €5, margherita €6. Cash only
Spaccanapoli & Underground Naples
Walk the ancient heart of Naples and descend 40m below the streets.
Walk Spaccanapoli(2.5 hours)
Chapel of Sansevero (€8)
Napoli Sotterranea(1.5 hours)
Entry €12
Lunch at Di Matteo(45 minutes)
Pizza fritta €3
Dinner at Tandem(1.5 hours)
Ragù. Pasta €8
Pompeii Day Trip
The frozen Roman city. An essential day.
Circumvesuviana to Pompeii Scavi(35 minutes)
€4
Pompeii Archaeological Park(4.5 hours)
Entry €18
MANN & Castel dell'Ovo
World's finest Roman collection and the waterfront castle.
National Archaeological Museum(2.5 hours)
Entry €18
Castel dell'Ovo(1 hour)
Free
Rest Day — Markets & Street Food
First rest day. Explore markets and eat everything.
Vesuvius & Herculaneum
Volcano hike and the better-preserved Roman city.
Vesuvius crater hike(1.5 hours)
Entry €10
Herculaneum(2 hours)
Entry €13
Capri Day Trip
Fast ferry to the glamorous island — Blue Grotto, Monte Solaro, Faraglioni rocks.
Fast ferry to Capri(50 minutes)
€22-25 each way
Blue Grotto(1.5 hours)
€18. Only in calm seas
Chairlift to Monte Solaro(1 hour)
€12 round trip. 360° views
Amalfi Coast — Positano & Amalfi
One of the world's most dramatic coastal roads with two postcard-perfect towns.
Train to Sorrento, SITA bus to Positano(2.5 hours)
Or direct ferry (€20, 90 min)
Explore Positano(2.5 hours)
Pastel houses, Spiaggia Grande. Lunch at La Tagliata (€35 prix fixe)
Amalfi Cathedral(1 hour)
Entry €3 for Cloister of Paradise
Certosa di San Martino & Vomero
Head uphill for monastery art, fortress views, and a residential neighborhood.
Certosa e Museo di San Martino(2 hours)
Entry €6. Best panoramic terrace
Castel Sant'Elmo(1 hour)
Entry €5. 360° views
Lunch at Friggitoria Fiorenzano(30 minutes)
Crocchè €1, panzerotti €2.50
Dinner at Palazzo Petrucci(2 hours)
Michelin-starred. Tasting menu from €80
Rest Day — Seafront & Beach
Second rest day. Lungomare walk, beach time, slow evening.
Beach at Bagno Elena, Posillipo(2 hours)
Entry €10
Dinner at Da Ettore(1.5 hours)
Pasta e patate €8
Ischia — Hot Springs Island
Volcanic island with natural thermal pools and gardens.
Ferry to Ischia Porto(1 hour)
€20-25 each way
Poseidon Thermal Gardens(3 hours)
Entry €37 full day
Aragonese Castle at Ischia Ponte(1.5 hours)
Entry €10
Procida Day Trip
The smallest, most authentic island. Marina Corricella, 'Il Postino' filming location.
Ferry to Procida(40 minutes)
€15-18 each way
Marina Corricella(1 hour)
Most photogenic fishing village in Italy
Lunch at La Conchiglia(1.5 hours)
Octopus salad €12
3-Night Sorrento & Amalfi Coast Side Trip — Day 1
Move to Sorrento for a deeper exploration of the Amalfi Coast. Check into a hotel with a terrace overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Circumvesuviana from Naples to Sorrento(1.5 hours)
€5. Sit on the right side for sea views after Castellammare
Check into hotel in Sorrento center(45 minutes)
Hotel Plaza Sorrento (€100/night) or guesthouse in the old town. Sorrento is a great base for the coast
Walk Sorrento old town(1.5 hours)
Via San Cesareo for lemon shops, Piazza Tasso (main square), and the Sedile Dominova (15th-century loggia). View from Villa Comunale garden down to Marina Piccola
Limoncello tasting(45 minutes)
Visit the I Giardini di Cataldo lemon grove (free tour with tasting) or buy at any of the artisan shops. A bottle €8-12. The Sorrento lemons are the size of softballs
Dinner at Inn Bufalito(1.5 hours)
Vico I Fuoro 21. All-buffalo-mozzarella menu. Their caprese (€10) uses mozzarella made that morning. Mains €12-18
Ravello & Path of the Gods
Visit the refined hilltop town of Ravello, then hike the legendary Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) along the cliffs above the Amalfi Coast.
SITA bus from Sorrento to Amalfi, then bus to Ravello(1.5 hours)
€2.50 each leg. Ravello is 350m above the coast
Ravello — Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone(2 hours)
Villa Rufolo (€10) has the famous Terrace of Infinity — Wagner composed here. Villa Cimbrone (€10) has an even more stunning belvedere. Both are gardens with coastal views
Hike the Sentiero degli Dei to Nocelle(2.5 hours)
8 km trail along 500m-high cliffs above the sea. Moderate difficulty. Spectacular views of Capri, Positano, and the coast. Bring water and sunscreen
Dinner at O'Parrucchiano la Favorita(1.5 hours)
Corso Italia 71. Sorrento's most famous restaurant (since 1868). Lemon-garden courtyard. Cannelloni alla Sorrentina €14. Reserve ahead
Sorrento — Cooking Class & Return to Naples
Morning cooking class learning Campanian recipes, then return to Naples for the final stretch.
Cooking class at Mami Camilla(3 hours)
Learn to make ravioli, gnocchi alla Sorrentina, and tiramisù in a family kitchen. €75/person including lunch and wine. Book at mamicamilla.com
Dinner at Pizzeria Oliva(1 hour)
Via Pignasecca 33. Locals' favorite. Excellent margherita (€5) without any tourist fame
Rest Day — Apartment Day
Third rest day. Decompress from the coast trip.
Cook a Neapolitan lunch at apartment(2 hours)
Make pasta alla Genovese or parmigiana di melanzane with market ingredients
Afternoon walk in Chiaia neighborhood(1.5 hours)
Naples' elegant neighborhood. Villa Comunale park, upscale shops on Via dei Mille
Aperitivo at Barril near Piazza dei Martiri(1 hour)
Craft cocktails and Neapolitan aperitivo snacks. €8-12 per drink
Caserta Royal Palace Day Trip
Visit the 'Italian Versailles' — the massive Bourbon Royal Palace at Caserta with its 1,200-room palace and 3 km garden.
Train from Napoli Centrale to Caserta(40 minutes)
Trenitalia regional, €4-6. Palace is directly opposite the station
Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)(3 hours)
UNESCO World Heritage Site. 1,200 rooms, the largest royal residence in the world by volume. Entry €14. Star Wars and Mission Impossible filmed here. The Throne Room and Royal Apartments are stunning
Walk the Royal Gardens(2 hours)
3 km of formal gardens stretching to a waterfall. Rent a bike (€5) or take the shuttle bus (€2) to the far end. The English Garden at the back is a romantic surprise
Lunch at Ristorante Leucio in San Leucio(1.5 hours)
5 km from Caserta. The Bourbon silk village of San Leucio is fascinating (free to visit) and the food is excellent. Mains €10-15
Paestum Day Trip — Greek Temples
Head south to see the best-preserved Greek temples outside Greece — three magnificent Doric temples from the 6th and 5th centuries BC.
Train from Naples to Paestum(1.5 hours)
Trenitalia regional via Salerno, €7-9. Or direct bus from Piazza Garibaldi (2 hrs)
Paestum Archaeological Site(2.5 hours)
Three incredibly well-preserved Greek temples — the Temple of Hera (530 BC), Temple of Neptune (450 BC, possibly the best-preserved Greek temple anywhere), and Temple of Athena. Entry €12. The Roman amphitheater and city walls are included
Paestum Archaeological Museum(1 hour)
The Tomb of the Diver (480 BC) — the only surviving Greek painted tomb from the Classical period — is reason enough to visit. Same ticket as the site
Lunch at Nettuno near the temples(1 hour)
Via Nettuno 2. Terrace facing the temples. Try the mozzarella di bufala from the local farms — some of Italy's best. €8 for a full plate
Visit a buffalo mozzarella farm(1 hour)
Several farms near Paestum offer tours and tastings. Vannulo (Tenuta Vannulo) is the most famous — organic buffalo mozzarella made fresh. Tour + tasting €10
Rest Day & Pizza-Making Class
Fourth rest day with a hands-on pizza class.
Pizza-making class(3 hours)
Learn dough, sauce, wood-oven technique. From €65/person. You eat what you make
Afternoon walk in Posillipo neighborhood(1.5 hours)
Upscale clifftop neighborhood with stunning views. Walk to Parco Virgiliano for sunset panorama over Capri, Ischia, and Procida
Last Full Day — Farewell Street Food Tour
Final day to fill every remaining food gap and say goodbye to Naples.
Morning espresso crawl(1.5 hours)
Caffè Mexico (Piazza Dante), then Caffè Gambrinus (Piazza Trieste), then Gran Caffè Aragonese (Via Toledo). Three standing-at-the-bar espressos, €1 each
Final street food crawl(2 hours)
Cuoppo at Pescheria Mattiucci, taralli at Il Tarallaro, pizza a portafoglio at any trusted spot
Last souvenir shopping(1 hour)
Moka pots, limoncello, nativity figurines, dried pasta from Gragnano
Farewell dinner at Antica Osteria Pisano(1.5 hours)
Since 1850. Genovese ragù €10. A proper goodbye
Departure Day
Final morning. One last espresso, one last sfogliatella, arrivederci Napoli.
Morning espresso at Caffè Mexico(20 minutes)
€1. The strongest coffee in Naples
Last sfogliatella at Pintauro(15 minutes)
€2.50. Warm riccia
Alibus to airport(20 minutes)
€5. Allow 2.5 hours before flight
Travel Tips
Visa & Entry
EU/Schengen Entry
Italy is in the Schengen Area. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens visit visa-free for 90 days. ETIAS authorization (€7) required from 2026 for non-EU visitors. Apply online before travel.
Safety
Watch for Scooter Bag-Snatchers
Naples has a reputation for petty crime. Carry bags on the side away from the road to prevent scooter drive-by snatchings. Use a cross-body bag, keep your phone secure, and avoid flashing expensive jewelry. The Spanish Quarters and train station area need extra caution at night.
Crossing the Street Is an Adventure
Traffic rules in Naples are more like suggestions. Cars and scooters rarely stop at crosswalks. Make eye contact with drivers, walk steadily and predictably, and cross with locals when possible. Don't wait for traffic to stop — it won't.
transport
Use the Circumvesuviana Train Wisely
The Circumvesuviana train connects Naples to Pompeii (€4, 35 min), Herculaneum (€3, 20 min), and Sorrento (€5, 70 min). Trains are often crowded and delayed — hold your belongings close. Board at Napoli Garibaldi station (below Centrale), not from intermediate stops where it's standing-room only.
Campania Artecard Saves Money
The Campania Artecard (€21-34 for 3 days) includes free entry to 2-5 sites (Pompeii, MANN, Royal Palace) plus 50% off others and free public transport. The 'Napoli' version (€21) is best for city-only visits; 'Tutta la Regione' (€34) includes Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Budget
Naples Is Italy's Best Budget City
Pizza costs €4-7, espresso €1-1.50, and wine by the glass €3-5. A filling street food lunch (pizza fritta, cuoppo di mare) costs under €8. Hotels in the centro storico start around €60/night. It's significantly cheaper than Rome, Florence, or Venice.
Local Customs
Coffee Culture Has Rules
In Naples, espresso is an art form. Stand at the bar (sitting costs extra). Order 'un caffè' for espresso — 'un americano' if you want a long coffee. Many locals practice 'caffè sospeso' — paying for an extra coffee left for someone who can't afford one. Don't order cappuccino after 11AM.
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