Naples Attractions - the Top 10 Popular Highlights

"See Naples and die...". This was already written by Goethe about the beautiful city in Campania. Naples was one of the largest cities in Europe from the Middle Ages to the 18th century and home to many significant artists.

Today, Italy's third-largest city impresses with its unique zest for life, a beautiful historic center, and of course, the best pizza in the world. Discover with us the top 10 attractions in Naples and plan your next city trip to the pearl of Italy!

Now discover the most popular attractions in Naples:

Italian Charm

Countless people bustle through the narrow streets: here vendors are loudly praising their goods, here crafts are made and espresso is enjoyed.

From the windows above, a scent of tomatoes flows, while white laundry flutters in the warm city breeze. In the historic center of Naples, the Centro Storico, you'll experience the special cheerful and bustling zest for life of the Neapolitans simply by strolling around.

The entire historic center is a World Heritage Site

Here, you can find numerous churches, palaces, and historical houses - it's no wonder that Naples' historic center is completely part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Especially popular attractions in Naples here include the Santa Chiara Monastery and the so-called Crib Street. On Via San Gregorio Armeno, you will find countless workshops that specialize in figurines for Christmas nativity scenes.

Tip: Sit on one of the many beautiful squares like Piazza Bellini and watch the colorful hustle and bustle of the Italian city.

Unseen, underneath Naples lies Napoli Sotterranea - the underworld.

A whole 80 kilometers of tunnels and tuff caves come together down here. This underground labyrinth has been used by Neapolitans for centuries as a hideout, protection, and catacombs.

City Tour Under the City

Even today, hidden entrances to Napoli Sotterranea can be found all over the historic center. On a guided tour through the underworld, you can admire some of the exciting tunnels, wells, and cisterns. Historic, exciting, and truly something special - this is definitely one of the most thrilling attractions in Naples.

Can food really be a sight? In Naples, definitely!

Often copied, but unmistakable

The special Neapolitan pizza with its fluffy crust is not only a true legend here but is also very popular worldwide.

Countless restaurants have been dedicated for generations to baking the most delicious pizza in the world. This is where the classic Pizza Margherita was invented.

Tip: The best places for Pizza Napoletana are L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Pizzeria di Matteo, and Sorbillo. Buon Appetito!

The National Archaeological Museum in Naples houses one of the most important archaeological collections in the world and is one of the most famous museums of its kind.

History of Pompeii

Here, you will find numerous well-preserved artifacts from the city of Pompeii, destroyed nearly 2000 years ago by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

You can admire entire wall paintings and mosaics from the legendary city and be transported back to a time long past.

Opening hours: Wed - Mon 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM

Looking for more? Then visit the excavations of Pompeii, where you can marvel at the almost completely preserved city. It takes only about 30 minutes by bus from Naples. This site is one of the most popular attractions in Naples and its surroundings.

Naples is a true paradise for shopping. Many local shops sell high-quality clothes as well as shoes and bags at reasonable prices. The famous shopping street Via Toledo is lined with boutiques of all kinds.

A day full of shopping is only interrupted by an espresso in one of the many nice cafés or a delicious snack.

Galleria Umberto

Also located on Via Toledo is the beautiful Galleria Umberto, a magnificent shopping arcade from the 19th century that is a must-see in any Naples travel guide.

The selection of boutiques and cafés might be better elsewhere, but the imposing glass dome and splendid beauty of the Galleria Umberto should not be missed during a vacation in Naples.

Only 9 kilometers from Naples rises the mighty Vesuvius. The active volcano, which swallowed Pompeii among other cities, last erupted in 1944.

Journey on the Bubbling Giant

The proximity to the volcano has significantly influenced the way of life of the Neapolitans - a visit to Vesuvius is therefore a MUST on a trip to Naples. With public transport, it doesn't take long to reach the volcano.

The ascent to the crater rim leads through lava landscapes and vineyards, providing a beautiful view of the Bay of Naples. It's only a 20-minute walk from the last parking lot on the volcano.

Paintings Collection on the Capodimonte Hill

The majestic Royal Palace on Capodimonte Hill is impressive in itself. Visitors are even more amazed inside the palace. Here is one of the best collections of paintings in Italy, spread over the vastness of the museum.

Picnic in the Museum Park

Take your time and explore the long corridors of Museo Capodimonte and discover works by Botticelli and Michelangelo.

Tip: On nice days, bring some delicious Italian treats and a bottle of good wine. The park around the palace is beautiful and perfect for a hearty picnic!

A mighty medieval fortress and the adjacent Certosa di San Martino monastery tower over Naples from Vomero.

Landmarks of Naples

Not only because they can be seen from almost everywhere, these buildings have become landmarks of the city and are considered popular attractions in Naples. Tourists can take an elevator up to the fortress and enjoy a breathtaking view of Naples, the bay, and Vesuvius from here.

Enjoy the sunset by the water

You have a beautiful view over the Bay of Naples all the way to the dream island of Capri from the waterfront promenade Via Partenope.

Our tip: Head to the promenade in the early evening and take a pleasant walk along the water. Here you can dine wonderfully at sunset and enjoy a nice wine to end your day.

And if you don't want the day to end yet: life comes alive at night near Castel dell'Ovo.

The last spot on our top 10 attractions list in Naples features a truly special highlight. Visiting the Fontanelle cemetery is not for the faint of heart.

Born out of necessity

In an extensive cave system, you will find countless skeletons, crosses, and similar items. The mass grave was first used when the plague drove thousands of Neapolitans to their graves daily.

Even though there is no entry fee for the cemetery, you must take a guided tour! The stories surrounding this spooky place are very interesting.

Opening hours: Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Entrance: Free

Did you know? The cave system is a total of 3000 square meters large and was originally a stone quarry.

The attractions of Naples are, like the city itself, historical, vibrant, and mysterious. The bustling, cheerful activity on the surface gives little hint of the dark underground tunnels and mass graves. Nonetheless, they are part of the overall picture of Naples.

Nevertheless, the Italian city at the foot of Vesuvius warmly welcomes its visitors with delicious pizza and enjoyable wine. Visit Naples and discover the attractions from our top 10 list and much more.

Which attractions in Naples are in the historic center?

The entire historic center of Naples is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No wonder, as it includes attractions such as:

Yes, not only in Naples itself but also in the surrounding area, there are numerous attractions. For example, visit Liberty City Fun, Mount Agnano, and the Phlegraean Fields.

The following attractions in Naples are free:

Yes, Naples is definitely worth seeing. Goethe already appreciated the beauty of the city. As Italy's third-largest city, Naples captivates with its beautiful historic center, colorful architecture, and views of Vesuvius.

The following attractions in Naples can be visited with children: