Naples City Guide

Naples is a sensory explosion, a city where layers of history are visible at every turn. Start in the UNESCO-listed Centro Storico, a labyrinth of narrow alleys where clotheslines hang over ancient Greek and Roman foundations. The Duomo di Napoli stands as a spiritual heart, housing the relic of San Gennaro, while the Veiled Christ in the Museo Cappella Sansevero offers a masterclass in Baroque sculpture that leaves visitors breathless.

Beyond the historic core, the city's relationship with the sea and stone defines its character. Walk the Lungomare for views of Mount Vesuvius and the Castel dell'Ovo, an ancient fortress jutting into the bay. For a change of pace, delve into the Naples Underground to discover the hidden tunnels and cisterns that have sustained the city for millennia. No visit is complete without a pilgrimage to the Spanish Quarter for authentic pizza and a funicular ride up to Castel Sant'Elmo for a panoramic sunset.

Escape the bustle of Spaccanapoli by stepping into the Ospedale delle Bambole, a whimsical workshop where artisans have restored cherished dolls for generations. This "hospital" offers a surreal and touching glimpse into Neapolitan devotion to craftsmanship and memory.

For a scenic perspective most travelers miss, descend the Pedamentina di San Martino. This 14th-century staircase winds down the hillside from the Certosa di San Martino, offering panoramic views of the bay and Vesuvius framed by domestic gardens and quiet residential corners.

History is literally underfoot at Stazione Neapolis. Located within the Museo metro station, this free archaeological display showcases artifacts unearthed during subway construction, blending modern transit with the ancient foundations of the city.

Navigating Naples is an adventure that blends historic charm with modern transit. In the dense, vibrant Centro Storico, walking is the preferred method, as many of the narrow, atmospheric alleys are inaccessible to cars. To traverse the city's steep hills, the four funicular lines—Centrale, Chiaia, Montesanto, and Mergellina—provide a scenic and efficient climb to the hilltop Vomero district. For longer distances, the Metro system is both functional and beautiful; Line 1 is renowned for its "Art Stations," making a simple commute feel like a visit to a contemporary museum.

Public transportation is integrated under the UnicoCampania system. A single journey ticket costs approximately €1.30, while a daily pass is around €4.50, covering buses, trams, the metro, and funiculars. While Uber operates primarily as a premium service (Uber Black), traditional taxis are widely available at designated ranks throughout the city. Always ensure the meter is running or request the "tariffa predeterminata" (fixed rate) for popular routes to avoid surprises.

Travelers arriving at Naples International Airport (Capodichino) can reach the city center via the Alibus shuttle for €5, which stops at the Central Train Station and the Port. A taxi from the airport to the historic center typically costs a fixed rate of roughly €20 to €25. For those heading to the ferry terminal for islands like Capri or Ischia, the Metro Line 1 stop at Municipio provides the most convenient connection to the docks.

Shopping in Naples offers a blend of chaotic charm and refined elegance. For high-end fashion and luxury brands, head to the elegant Via Chiaia and Via dei Mille, where upscale boutiques showcase the best of Italian tailoring. This city is world-renowned for its bespoke menswear, specifically the soft-shouldered Neapolitan jacket, so seeking out a master tailor is a must for those with a penchant for sartorial excellence.

Those seeking a more local, budget-friendly experience should dive into the bustling markets. Via Toledo is the city’s main commercial artery, lined with popular international chains and local shops catering to every budget. For a truly authentic Neapolitan souvenir, visit Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its intricate, handcrafted nativity scenes and terracotta figures that are produced year-round by skilled artisans.

Don't leave without exploring the artisanal workshops of the Spaccanapoli district. Here, you can find high-quality leather goods, handmade ceramics, and Limoncello produced from local Sorrento lemons. Whether you're hunting for a designer handbag or a simple lucky horn known as a cornicello, the city’s vibrant streets provide a shopping experience that is as much about the atmosphere as it is the purchases.

Tipping in Naples is a warm gesture of appreciation rather than a strict requirement. When dining out, look for the "coperto" (cover charge) on your bill; while this covers basics, leaving an additional five to ten percent for excellent service is highly regarded. For a quick espresso at a bar, it is customary to leave a few small coins on the counter. The local currency is the Euro (€), with a rough exchange rate of 1 Euro to 1.10 US Dollars.

For other services, modest tips are always appreciated. Rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is standard practice, and hotel porters typically receive one or two euros per suitcase. Leaving a small daily tip for housekeeping also reflects well on your visit. These small acts of kindness are a simple way to acknowledge the legendary Neapolitan hospitality you will encounter throughout the city.

The ideal window for visiting Naples is during the spring months of April through June or the early autumn in September and October. These shoulder seasons offer the most pleasant Mediterranean weather, with mild temperatures that are perfect for wandering the historic Spaccanapoli or visiting nearby archaeological sites without the oppressive summer heat. While crowds are present, they are significantly more manageable than during the peak July and August holidays, and accommodation pricing remains relatively moderate.

For a unique experience with lower costs, consider a winter visit to see the world-renowned Nativity scenes along Via San Gregorio Armeno. While the weather becomes cooler and rainier from November to February, the city's vibrant energy persists and tourist numbers drop significantly, offering a more authentic look at Neapolitan life. Avoid August if possible, as many locals head to the coast, some businesses close, and the combination of high humidity and peak prices can be challenging.