The Top 15 Experiences in Naples: Embracing la dolce vita

Founded by the Greeks in the first millennium BCE, Naples stands as one of Europe's oldest cities and continues to captivate visitors today.

Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea, with Mt Vesuvius looming in the background, Italy's third-largest city boasts a remarkable array of art and architecture. Ancient Greek city walls, a Roman theater, and a Norman castle reflect its rich historical tapestry. Throughout the city’s UNESCO-listed historical center, you’ll discover baroque churches, stunning Renaissance piazzas, and delightful cafés around every corner.

As Italians say, “Rome is the heart of Italy, but Naples is its soul.” Neapolitans have truly embraced the essence of la dolce vita ('the sweet life'). Discover how they live through this curated list of the best activities in Naples.

1. Wander along Spaccanapoli, the vibrant core of Naples

Spaccanapoli – meaning “Naples splitter” – is the lively narrow street that winds through Naples’ Centro Storico (historical center). The sounds of buzzing Vespas, neighbors debating politics from their balconies, and the rhythmic hammering from tiny artisan workshops make Spaccanapoli the vibrant heartbeat of this captivating city. Along this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll discover some of the most famous churches, including the circa 1470 Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo and the Cappella Sansevero, famous for its marble masterpiece Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino.

2. Indulge in a slice of pizza in the city where it all began

In Naples, the tantalizing scent of freshly baked dough fills the air, where pizza was first created. Raffaele Esposito is often credited with crafting the original Pizza Margherita in honor of the Italian queen during her visit in 1889, although local street vendors had long been selling wood-fired flatbreads with toppings. Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo stands out as one of the finest in the city, emphasizing organic ingredients and local produce from the Campania region. In Naples, it’s nearly impossible to find a subpar slice of pizza; the art of pizza making is truly elevated here.

3. Shop for holiday gifts throughout the year in the charming Christmas Alley

Naples has a long-standing tradition of presepi (nativity scenes) that dates back 1000 years. Each year on December 8, families create a presepe featuring statues of the Holy Family along with the animals and townspeople of Bethlehem to celebrate the Christmas season. Throughout the year, the narrow alley of Via San Gregorio is alive with traditional presepe artisans, where you can find all the nativity figurines needed to craft your own display.

4. Explore the colorful cloister of the Santa Chiara religious complex

Constructed between 1313 and 1340 by Queen Sancha of Majorca and her spouse, King Robert of Naples, the Santa Chiara monastic complex in Naples’ Centro Storico features the Baroque-style Basilica di Santa Chiara, alongside a monastery, tombs, and an archaeological museum. Escape the hustle of Naples for a moment of tranquility in the serene garden, the Cloister of the Clarisse. Redesigned in 1742 by Domenico Antonio Vaccaro, this garden is adorned with citrus trees and majolica-tiled columns and pergolas.

5. Discover the treasures housed in the Naples National Archaeological Museum

Originally built as a cavalry barracks in 1585, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale was founded in the late 18th century by King Charles VII. This museum is renowned for its collection of treasures that survived the catastrophic eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 CE, which devastated Herculaneum and Pompeii. Be sure to see the Farnese marbles, Roman replicas of classical Greek sculptures, and the ancient Roman bronzes from the Villa of the Papyri.

6. Discover the underground Catacombe di San Gennaro

Named after Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro (Saint Januarius), who was once interred here, the Catacombe di San Gennaro are a labyrinth of paleo-Christian tombs located underground. More than 3,000 tombs were excavated from tuff, a porous volcanic stone, making this the largest Christian catacomb complex in southern Italy. The lower level dates back to the 3rd century CE, and archaeologists suggest this site may have served as an even older pre-Christian burial ground.

7. Savor Neapolitan pastries

No visit to Naples is complete without indulging in its famous pizza and scrumptious pastries. A pasticceria can be found on nearly every street in the Centro Storico, making it hard to resist popping into each one. Stop by Scaturchio for a sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta, or try the babà, delightful yeast cakes soaked in rum.

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8. Walk along the Lungomare

The passeggiata is a cherished Italian tradition involving evening strolls, typically after dinner. This leisurely social occasion is when friends casually meet, couples walk hand in hand, and children enjoy gelato with their parents. Naples’ Lungomare, a scenic promenade along the Mediterranean, is perhaps the most beloved spot for this evening ritual.

9. Visit the Castel dell’Ovo, Naples’ iconic “Egg Castle”

According to legend, the Roman poet Virgil concealed a magical egg within the foundation of Naples’ iconic “Egg Castle,” the city’s oldest fortification. Originally constructed by the Normans in the 12th century, this site has served various purposes over the years, including a fortress, royal palace, and prison. Although the castle itself is not open to the public, visitors can explore the small island it sits on, known as Borgo Marinaro, where the Greeks first settled in the 7th century BCE. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples, with Mt Vesuvius in the backdrop.

10. Ride the Funicolare Centrale to Piazza Vanvitelli

Naples’ Funicolare Centrale carries passengers 1,270 meters (4,167 feet) upwards from Piazza Fuga to Piazza Vanvitelli, gaining an elevation of 170 meters (558 feet). Operating since 1928, this inclined railway is a vital mode of transport for locals. Take some time to browse the numerous boutiques surrounding the octagonal Piazza Vanvitelli, the funicular’s final stop. The journey from the lower piazza to the upper piazza takes about five minutes.

11. Ascend the ramparts of Castel Nuovo

The impressive medieval Castel Nuovo, originally built in 1279, served as the royal residence for the kings of Naples, Aragon, and Spain until 1815. Explore the castle and appreciate the Cappella Palatina (Palatine Chapel), featuring frescoes by Giotto. Don't miss the remarkable collection of masterpieces from the 17th to 20th centuries by Neapolitan artists, and be sure to climb the ramparts for breathtaking views of the city.

12. Discover the interior of Naples’ Royal Palace

From the 13th to the 19th centuries, Naples was a kingdom that governed much of southern Italy, with the Palazzo Reale standing as one of its most opulent palaces. Step inside to explore exquisitely decorated, beautifully preserved rooms that reflect the lavish lifestyle of the kings, queens, princes, and princesses who once resided in this magnificent palace.

13. Experience a performance at the lavish Teatro San Carlo

The Teatro San Carlo holds the title of the oldest continuously operating opera house in the world. Adjacent to the Royal Palace, it first opened its doors in 1737 and has been the stage for exceptional performances ever since. Enjoy a production by Verdi or Puccini from one of the ornate box seats in the auditorium, and feel like royalty.

14. Ascend to the peak of Mt Vesuvius

The imposing Mt Vesuvius, which looms over the Bay of Naples, was responsible for the catastrophic destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 CE. The volcano last erupted in 1944, and its future activity remains unpredictable.

To truly appreciate Mt Vesuvius, hike to its summit via the 4-mile “Gran Cono” Trail. This steep path will take you around 20 minutes to climb from the base to the refreshment stand at the top, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the volcanic crater.

15. Explore the ruins of Pompeii

The catastrophic eruption of Mt Vesuvius released toxic gases and rocks, burying the bustling city of Pompeii. This volcanic fallout encased its inhabitants in ash that eventually solidified; archaeologists later created plaster casts to fill the voids left by their decayed bodies. At the expansive archaeological park of this ancient city, you'll witness haunting body casts that capture the final moments of these residents. Additionally, you can visit excavated areas that reveal what was once a vibrant and advanced Roman city.

Situated just 15 miles south of Naples, Pompeii is easily accessible from the city center via the local Circumvesuviana train.