Naples is the capital of Campania and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Founded by the Greeks as Neapolis, it has one of the largest historic centres in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set on a bay dominated by Vesuvius.
Why visit Naples
For art, street life and food. Naples combines world-class museums and hundreds of churches with noisy markets, lively squares and the best pizza in Italy, and it is the natural base for Pompeii, Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
Top things to do in Naples
The historic centre
Walk Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali, lined with churches, palaces, pizzerias and the nativity workshops of San Gregorio Armeno.
The National Archaeological Museum
One of the most important museums of the ancient world, with mosaics, frescoes and statues from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The Veiled Christ
In the Cappella Sansevero, an extraordinary 18th-century marble sculpture of Christ under a transparent veil.
Underground Naples and Capodimonte
Tunnels and cisterns beneath the city, and the Capodimonte palace, park and art museum on the hill to the north.
The waterfront
Piazza del Plebiscito, the Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, Castel dell’Ovo and the promenade along the bay.
Best time to visit Naples
Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is hot but good for the islands. December brings nativity scenes and Christmas markets.
Getting to and around Naples
Naples airport is about 20 minutes from the centre by Alibus. High-speed trains reach Rome in about 70 minutes. The metro (with the striking Toledo station), funiculars and buses serve the city; ferries leave for Capri, Ischia and Procida.
What to eat in Naples
Neapolitan pizza (the art of the pizzaiuolo is on UNESCO’s intangible heritage list), fried pizza, sfogliatella, babà, spaghetti with clams, ragù and strong espresso.
Naples FAQ
How many days do I need in Naples?
Two or three days for the city; add more for Pompeii, Capri or the Amalfi Coast.
Is Naples a good base for Pompeii?
Yes: the Circumvesuviana train takes about 35 minutes to Pompei Scavi.
