Naples is Italy at full volume — chaotic, historic, and irresistibly alive. Beneath its buzzing streets lies centuries of art, food, and folklore. A weekend here immerses you in everything from Baroque churches to pizza straight from the oven.

Why Go?

Naples is more than Pompeii’s gateway — it’s one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, rich with art, archaeology, and legendary food.

A bit of History

Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, Naples became a Roman port, a Bourbon capital, and a cradle of Baroque architecture. Its layered history is visible everywhere — from underground catacombs to royal palaces.

What to Expect

  • Spirited street life and vibrant markets.

  • Deep history at every corner.

  • World-famous food, from pizza to sfogliatella.

5 Things to Do and See

  1. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to Pompeii’s treasures.

  2. Walk through Spaccanapoli, the narrow street slicing through the old city.

  3. Explore Napoli Sotterranea, the city’s ancient tunnels.

  4. Admire views from Castel Sant’Elmo above the Vomero district.

  5. Take a ferry to Castel dell’Ovo and stroll the seafront promenade.

Via dei Tribunali sign above a Mammarella pizzeria poster on a red wall

Food Culture

Naples invented pizza — and it shows. The city’s street food, pastries, and coffee culture are legendary.

Where to Eat

  • L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – The ultimate Margherita or Marinara pizza.

  • Trattoria Nennella – Fun, noisy spot for pasta and local seafood in Quartieri Spagnoli.

  • Pasticceria Scaturchio – Historic pastry shop famous for sfogliatella and babà al rum.

Quartieri Spagnoli

Quartieri Spagnoli

Where to Stay

  • Grand Hotel Santa Lucia – Elegant waterfront hotel overlooking Castel dell’Ovo.

  • Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments – Stylish base in the heart of the historic center.

Off the Beaten Track

Take the Circumflegrea line to Pozzuoli for Greek ruins and seafood restaurants by the sea.

How to Get There by Train

Naples is served by high-speed trains from Rome (1h 10m), Florence (3h), and Milan (4h 15m). The central station (Napoli Centrale) connects directly to local lines and ferries.

Planning a longer trip? Find practical rail itineraries, travel tips and independent travel advice in Touring Italy by Train by Elena Rossetti.