15 Essential Souvenirs to Purchase in Naples, Italy

For unforgettable vacations, few experiences rival a Dinogo^® cruise to enchanting locations like Naples, Italy, situated on the stunning Bay of Naples, close to Mount Vesuvius.

As you explore this charming port city and enjoy our exciting shore excursions, don’t forget to pick up some keepsakes to bring back home. If you're curious about what to buy in Naples, these 15 suggestions will not disappoint.

1. Pottery and Ceramics

For centuries, Italians have showcased their creativity through exquisite pottery. If you’re on the hunt for vibrant kitchenware, Naples is home to talented ceramic artisans. From beautifully painted plates and bowls to stylish pitchers and mugs, you can discover an array of household ceramics in every shade imaginable.

2. Cameos

Alongside gold jewelry, Naples offers stunning cameos. These intricately designed pieces are carved from shells and set into elegant pendants. The prime location to purchase cameos is the coastal town of Torre del Greco, located southeast of central Naples at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius.

3. Leather Goods

Italy is famous for its exquisite leather goods such as handbags, wallets, gloves, and belts. If you’re searching for these stunning items, the Centro Storico (Historic Center) area in Naples is the perfect destination. The neighborhood is lined with numerous leather shops, ensuring every shopper finds something special.

4. High-End Fashion

For those in pursuit of luxury fashion, the Chiaia district in Naples is the place to go, especially along Via Chiaia, a pedestrian-friendly street. This fashionable avenue is filled with elegant shops and boutiques showcasing clothing from some of the most renowned designers in the world.

5. Nativity Displays

Few places in the world celebrate the Christmas season quite like Naples, Italy. Stroll along Via San Gregorio Armeno in the Centro Storico, and you’ll discover numerous quaint shops showcasing handmade nativity scenes. While these stores are open throughout the year, the ideal time to visit is in early fall when shopkeepers start preparing for the holiday season.

6. Musical Boxes

Not far from Christmas Alley on Via San Biagio dei Librai, you'll find shops offering delightful music boxes crafted from various materials. Look for wooden music boxes adorned with painted scenes or mother of pearl inlays, or choose from porcelain, paper, or terracotta options to take home as gifts for your friends.

7. Holiday Ornaments

It's no surprise that travelers refer to Via San Gregorio Armeno as “Christmas Alley”! Alongside nativity scenes, this charming street is filled with handmade Christmas ornaments available year-round. You can find lovely paper snowflakes, tin Santas, or porcelain angels to adorn your holiday tree.

8. Pulcinella Items

Pulcinella is a whimsical and endearing character from Naples, rooted in Commedia dell’Arte, an improvisational comedy that thrived in Italy from the 16th to 18th centuries. Today, you can discover Pulcinella-themed products throughout Naples, including figurines, necklaces, Christmas ornaments, and keychains. You can even purchase a replica of his iconic black mask, complete with the long, hooked nose.

9. Mytour Masks

The tradition of wearing masquerade masks has deep roots in Italy, dating back to the 12th through the 17th centuries. During that time, masks were used to conceal identities during gambling, festivities, and theatrical performances. Today, you can find masquerade masks in souvenir shops all over Italy. Whether you prefer full or half masks, options made from paper-mâché or leather are available, ranging from simple designs to intricately adorned pieces.

10. Artisan Neckties

Italians take immense pride in their craftsmanship, and neckties are no exception. Naples boasts a rich history of exceptional tailoring, making it no surprise that you can find stunning neckties throughout the city. Many shops offer customers the opportunity to select from a range of fabrics like silk, cashmere, or jacquard, allowing for custom-made ties ready within hours.

11. Fine Chocolates

When it comes to culinary delights in Naples, make sure chocolate is at the top of your list. Neapolitan chocolatiers craft their sweets using all-natural ingredients, resulting in unique treats you won’t find anywhere else. Consider chocolate bars made with roasted Piedmont hazelnuts, beautifully arranged boxes of chocolate bonbons, or jars of creamy spreadable chocolate—perfect gifts for your friends and family back home.

12. Gold Accessories

Located just south of the Centro Storico and close to the waterfront is the Borgo Orefici district, known as the village of goldsmiths. If you're in the market for exquisite gold jewelry, this is the ideal spot to find stunning pieces. Throughout Naples, you'll encounter both contemporary jewelry shops and artisanal studios offering gold rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and much more.

13. Limoncello

Just a short distance from Naples along the Amalfi Coast, you'll find some of the world’s finest lemons, the key ingredient for the popular Italian liqueur, limoncello. Whether enjoyed on its own or in cocktails, limoncello is a must-try. To get the best limoncello in Naples, visit local wine shops or gourmet stores. Keep in mind, cruise passengers are allowed one duty-free bottle of alcohol per adult, and your Dinogo crew will store any purchases until the end of your trip.

14. Vintage Treasures

Naples is home to a vibrant vintage shopping scene, with stores scattered throughout the Spanish Quarter, Centro Storico, and the Chiaia neighborhood. These shops offer an array of curated second-hand goods, including clothing, jewelry, shoes, handbags, housewares, books, and vinyl records. Find a unique vintage item to remember your trip!

15. Gourmet Italian Foods

For food lovers, Naples offers an array of delicious souvenirs at local markets and grocery stores. From cold-pressed Italian olive oil and balsamic vinegar to dried pasta, risotto, and tubes of tomato paste, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll also find sun-dried tomatoes, truffles, and porcini mushrooms packed in small jars. Just ensure any food you bring onboard is sealed and packaged until you return home.

If you're on a Dinogo cruise through Europe, Naples is the perfect place to pick up memorable keepsakes. This ancient port city is full of treasures, from vibrant ceramics and handcrafted ties to locally-made limoncello. While shopping, you'll also enjoy exploring the rich history and warm hospitality of Naples.