Choose from 42 Fun Things to Do in Naples
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Piazza del Plebiscito
In a city that can be as overwhelming as Naples, it’s nice to have the expanse of a public square like the enormous Piazza del Plebiscito. This is one of the biggest public piazzas in Naples, and it sits right next to the bay on the edge of the city’s historic center.
The Piazza del Plebiscito and the church of San Francesco di Paola, which borders the square to the west, were both planned in the early 19th century as monuments in honor of then-emperor Napoleon - his brother-in-law being the King of Naples at the time. Construction of both the piazza and the church were completed in 1816, after Napoleon had been exiled.
On the opposite side of the Piazza del Plebiscito, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Naples, a former residence of the Bourbon Kings who ruled in the 18th-19th centuries. The side of the palace that faces the piazza contains niches where the statues of major rulers over the Kingdom of Naples are displayed. One of the statues is of Gioacchino Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law who first began the planning and construction for the piazza over which his statue now looks.
Today, the Piazza del Plebiscito is used for everything from outdoor concerts protest gatherings to to impromptu soccer games among children. The wide, colonnaded arms that emanate from either side of San Francesco di Paola are reminiscent of the arms encircling St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, while the broad dome of the church itself reminds you of Rome’s Pantheon. The scene at the heart of the Piazza del Plebiscito, however, is entirely Naples.
The Piazza del Plebiscito and the church of San Francesco di Paola, which borders the square to the west, were both planned in the early 19th century as monuments in honor of then-emperor Napoleon - his brother-in-law being the King of Naples at the time. Construction of both the piazza and the church were completed in 1816, after Napoleon had been exiled.
On the opposite side of the Piazza del Plebiscito, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Naples, a former residence of the Bourbon Kings who ruled in the 18th-19th centuries. The side of the palace that faces the piazza contains niches where the statues of major rulers over the Kingdom of Naples are displayed. One of the statues is of Gioacchino Murat, Napoleon’s brother-in-law who first began the planning and construction for the piazza over which his statue now looks.
Today, the Piazza del Plebiscito is used for everything from outdoor concerts protest gatherings to to impromptu soccer games among children. The wide, colonnaded arms that emanate from either side of San Francesco di Paola are reminiscent of the arms encircling St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, while the broad dome of the church itself reminds you of Rome’s Pantheon. The scene at the heart of the Piazza del Plebiscito, however, is entirely Naples.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Italy
From $ 27
Piazza Trieste e Trento
Piazza Trieste e Trento is the square to see and be seen in Naples. It’s where the most fashionable Neapolitans and visitors linger over an espresso in the landmark Caffé Gambrinus after perusing the stores along Via Toledo and Via Chiaia, two of the city's main shopping thoroughfares that end in this bustling piazza.
The Basics
To one side of Piazza Trieste e Trento stretches the vast Piazza del Plebiscito, one of Italy's most famous public spaces, lined by an elegant sweep of Doric columns, the glorious Palazzo Reale—formerly the royal residence and now a museum—and the domed Church of San Francesco di Paola. To the other side of the square, along Via San Carlo, is the historic Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest continuously active opera house in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits directly across from the 19th-century Galleria Umberto I shopping gallery and virtually next door to the imposing medieval Castel Nuovo. Visit Piazza Trieste e Trento and nearby attractions by joining a Naples history walk, or opt for a Vespa tour or a day of Naples sightseeing by vintage Fiat for a unique private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In addition to shops and boutiques, the neighborhood around Piazza Trieste e Trento is thick with excellent traditional Neapolitan restaurants.
- The adjacent Via Chiaia is pedestrian only, so it’s easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
- The square is one of the most important intersections in Naples, where three of the city's main thoroughfares converge around the central Fontana del Carciofo.
How to Get There
The N1 and N3 buses both stop directly in Piazza Trieste e Trento, and the metro line 1 stops at Piazza del Municipio, a 5-minute walk away. Naples is the largest city in the region of Campania, and a hub for trains and ferries from the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.
When to Get There
Naples is a popular destination, and its attractions can be very hot and crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds, and the late evening to relax with a cocktail during the cooler hours of the day.
The Church of San Ferdinando
The 17th-century Chiesa di San Ferdinando faces onto Piazza Trieste e Trento and is known for its baroque fresco cycle by Paolo de Matteis dating from the late 1600s.
Address: Piazza Trieste e Trento, Naples, 80132, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 185
Saint Lucia Neighborhood
At one point in history, Naples was divided into more than two dozen neighborhoods. Present day city geography breaks Naples into 10 municipalities, but the neighborhood names like Saint Lucia are often still used when referring to various parts of the city.
Saint Lucia refers to the area surrounding the Castel dell'Ovo or Egg Castle. The neighborhood has been the subject and inspiration for some traditional Neapolitan songs, the best-known simple titled Santa Lucia. Numerous lyric renditions are known and recognized around the world.
Practical Info
Situated by the Bay of Naples, the Saint Lucia Neighborhood enjoys nice seaside views. The waterfront location includes a long promenade popular with walkers and joggers. There are also many hotels and restaurants that take advantage of the views.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 27
Santa Chiara
One of the most important churches in the center of Naples, Santa Chiara is part of a larger religious complex housing a monastery and archaeological museum. Its most remarkable feature is the beautiful cloister, with elaborately painted Rococò majolica decorations covering the columns, benches, and garden walls.
The Basics
Santa Chiara was built in 1310 in the Gothic style by King Robert of Anjou for his second wife, Sancha of Majorca, and included two adjacent convents, one for nuns and one for monks. In the mid-1700s, the church was remodeled in a Baroque style; however, most of Santa Chiara was destroyed in 1943 during World War II bombings. When it was rebuilt 10 years later, it was returned to its original Gothic design. The spectacular 18th-century cloister survived intact, and today it’s the highlight of a visit to what is officially known as the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara. The complex also includes the Museo dell’Opera Francescana, a traditional Neapolitan Nativity scene, and the archaeological area with Roman remains discovered in the aftermath of the war.
A visit to Santa Chiara is a highlight of any tour of Naples’ historic center, as it sits right along the famous Spaccanapoli thoroughfare just across from the Church of Gesù Nuovo. Join a walking or Segway tour of this vibrant city that also includes stops at Via San Gregorio Armeno, Sant’Angelo a Nilo, and the Castel Nuovo fortress. Foodies can opt for a Naples food and sightseeing tour to sample some of the city’s famous street food, and history buffs can combine a visit to Naples with a tour of the Roman ruins at Pompeii, just outside the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Modest attire is required to enter the church, so be sure to cover shoulders and knees.
- The complex is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Walking tours of the historic center of Naples cover a fair bit of ground; choose comfortable footwear.
- The complex houses a café, restrooms, and a bookshop.
How to Get There
Santa Chiara is located in the square of Gesù Nuovo along the pedestrian Spaccanapoli thoroughfare. Much of the historic center of Naples consists of narrow alleys and tight corners, so walking is the easiest mode of transport from the city’s port and main train station. Naples is a major transportation and cruise ship hub, with direct trains from major Italian cities and ferries from Salerno and Sorrento.
When to Get There
Naples can be uncomfortably hot in summer, so try to visit in spring or fall months or schedule your tour to begin in the early morning before the temperatures soar. The complex is open daily, although it’s closed on Sunday afternoons.
Highlights of the Historic Center of Naples
Santa Chiara is located in Naples’ historic center of Naples, which consists of more than 10 distinct neighborhoods along the Spaccanapoli. Highlights include the 13th-century Castel Nuovo, the Teatro di San Carlo (the oldest opera house in Italy), and Piazza Plebiscito. Roman and Greek ruins lie below the center, and the National Archaeological Museum houses artifacts unearthed at Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Address: Via S. Chiara, 49, Naples 80134, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi
The 15th-century church Sant’Anna dei Lombardi, also known as Santa Maria di Monte Oliveto, is home to some of Naples' best art. With Baroque paintings and an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, the church's unassuming exterior gives way to intricately-decorated ceilings and elaborately-adorned walls that evoke feelings of marvel and beauty like a small-scale Sistine Chapel.
Don’t miss the elaborate sacristy, which was done by Giorgio Vasari, or the beautiful chapel at the back of the church—a crowd-favorite. Walk through the building to enter the courtyard, which is adorned with a bronze sculpture of Charles II of Spain and what is considered to be one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy.
There are many churches in Naples, and many of them are worth a visit. Consider livening up your visit to Sant'Anna dei Lombardi on a private Vespa or Fiat 500 tour of Naples' most famous sights.
Practical Info
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi is located in Piazza Monteoliveto, in the center of Naples. The nearest metro station is Toledo.
The church is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 1:30pm and from 2pm to 4pm. It is open Friday and Saturday from 2pm to 6pm. The church is free to enter, but a EUR 5 donation will get you into areas that are currently being restored.
Address: Piazza Monteoliveto, 4, Naples 80134, Italy
Hours: Mon–Thu: 10am–1:30pm & 2–4pm; Fri & Sat: 2–6pm
From $ 39
San Francesco di Paola Church
Naples version of the Pantheon, San Francesco di Paola Church is located on the pedestrian-only Piazza del Plebiscito. It’s no doubt the first thing you’ll notice when you step into the piazza.
Originally intended to serves as a monument to Napoleon Bonaparte, when Ferdinand I returned to the throne he constructed the church, dedicating it to the saint of the same name. The 19th century church is circular with two side chapels. Its façade is dominated by six Ionic columns and two pillars. The massive dome is 174 feet (53 meters) high.
Inside the San Francesco di Paola Church are numerous sculptures and paintings by Luca Giordano and other Neapolitan artists.
Practical Info
The Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is located opposite the Royal Palace on the Piazza Plebiscito. Entrance to the Church is free. It closes daily for a few hours in the early afternoon.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Italy
From $ 34
San Domenico Maggiore
Set on a busy square and surrounded by palaces, a visit to the 13th-century San Domenico Maggiore offers visitors the chance to see a beautiful church and lively piazza.
The new Church of San Domenico Maggiore was built between 1283 and 1324. It incorporates a smaller church, the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa – you can see the remains inside—first built at the same location in the 10th century. Like many churches, San Domenico Maggiore has undergone many renovations and remodels over its long history. In 1670, it underwent a Baroque redo, only to be restored to its original Gothic design in the 19th century.
San Domenico Maggiore contains well-known Renaissance art including frescoes by Pietro Cavallini and copies of works by Caravaggio and Titian.
Practical Info
Along with the main entrance, there is a second entrance into the Church through the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa from Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. Located near the center of Naples, the piazza is a bustling place, crowded with locals and visitors.
Address: Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, 8, Naples 80134, Italy
From $ 29
National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)
A treasure trove of Roman antiquities, Naples’ National Archaeological Museum is home to more than 3,000 artifacts, including bronzes, mosaics, and papyri recovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum; the Farnese Collection of classical gems, semi-precious stones, and sculpture; and the Egyptian collection.
The Basics
Opened in the late 18th century to house Charles III of Bourbon’s private collection, the National Archaeological Museum holds one of the one of the world’s finest collections of Greek and Roman artifacts in the world, with highlights including the Farnese Bull and Hercules sculptures, mosaics from the House of the Faun, frescoes from Villa di Agrippa Postumus and Casa di Meleagro, and bronzes from Villa dei Papiri—all recovered in Pompeii.
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Naples. To avoid a long wait to enter, book a museum tour with skip-the-line tickets. Many Naples walking or hop-on-hop-off tours include a stop at the museum, as do full-day shore excursions. For a deep dive into this important collection, consider a private tour with an archaeologist guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the museum is a must for archaeology buffs, and especially interesting for those with plans to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, where many of the museum’s artifacts were recovered.
- The National Archaeological Museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at baggage check at the entrance.
- The museum houses a small bookshop and cafe.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the museum.
How to Get There
The National Archaeological Museum is located in the center of Naples, easily accessible by metro lines 1 and 2 from across the city.
When to Get There
This popular museum can be crowded on the weekends, so is best visited on a weekday. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Racy History: The Gabinetto Segreto
The museum’s Gabinetto Segreto (or Secret Chamber) contains a small collection of ancient erotica recovered from Pompeii and elsewhere, and has a long history of limited access and censorship; even today, visitors under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The collection includes erotic statues, paintings, and mosaics.
Address: Piazza Museo Nazionale 19, Naples 80135, Italy
Hours: Wed - Mon 9am - 8pm. Closed Tuesdays, Jan 1, May 1, and Dec 25
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Quartiere Spagnoli
With a warren of narrow alleyways and roughly cobblestoned streets, crammed with small stores, barber’s shops and dimly lit bars, the Quartiere Spagnoli is one of Naples’ most atmospheric local districts. Built to house troops during the Spanish occupation, the historic quarter might be somewhat rundown these days, but it still buzzes with life, with colorful laundry flapping from the balconies, residents sipping espresso on their doorsteps and motorbikes juddering by at all hours of the day and night.
Despite earning itself a rather unsavory reputation in recent years due to an abundance of petty crime and pickpocketing, the Quartiere Spagnoli is still one of Naples’ most characteristic areas and makes a unique addition to a tour itinerary. As well as offering a unique glimpse into everyday life in the city, it’s home to landmarks like the Baroque church of Santa Maria degli Angeli and the 18th-century Palazzo Serra di Cassano.
Practical Info
The Quartiere Spagnoli is located to the west of Via Toledo in central Naples.
Address: Quartieri Spagnoli, Naples, Italy
From $ 81
Procida
The smallest island in the Campanian Archipelago, a trip to Procida can make a big impression.
Compared to its better known island neighbors, a small number of visitors venture to Procida, making it a great destination for travelers who don’t enjoy crowds. While Chiaiolella Beach is the island’s most popular stretch of sand, the beach at Pozzo Vecchio is known for its role in the film Il Postino.
Lined with a pastel rainbow of buildings, just wandering the narrow streets can provide hours of enjoyment. It’s questionable who has the better view, the houses and churches along the coast, or the many boats anchored offshore.
Practical Info
Procida was created by the eruption of now dormant and submerged volcanoes. It is connected to the Island of Vivara by a narrow bridge. The island, less than 4.1 square kilometers (1.6 square miles), is located between Capo Miseno and the island of Ischia.
Address: Procida, Italy
From $ 1,998
San Lorenzo Maggiore
There are hundreds of historic churches in Naples, so narrowing down the must see list can be hard. San Lorenzo Maggiore is worth saving time for on your busy itinerary.
It’s at San Lorenzo Maggiore where poet Boccaccio is said to have met Fiammetta. During a visit here you’ll see a beautiful church, get a history lesson and an amazing glimpse of underground Naples.
The Monumental Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore contains the church and a museum that covers its remarkable history. It is constructed atop a Roman marketplace, so when speaking of San Lorenzo, it may refer to the church, the museum or archaeological site beneath. A large portion of the marketplace has been excavated and visitors are allowed to wander around to see the well-preserved remains of ancient shops. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, the marketplace is the only large-scale Greco-Roman site excavated in the downtown area.
Practical Info
San Lorenzo Maggiore is located in the historical center of Naples, on the south side of Piazza San Gaetano. Use Piazzetta San Gaetano to access the basilica, and the archaeological area. Admission to the Church is free, but there is a fee to enter the museum and go underground.
Address: Via del Tribunali, 316, Naples 80138, Italy
From $ 493
Piazza del Gesu
One of Naples' more interesting religious sites is the church of Gesù Nuovo in the city's historic center. Its spiky stone facade overlooks the wide open Piazza del Gesu, a popular spot for Neapolitans to meet, mingle and enjoy the fine Mediterranean weather.
The piazza used to be one of the main entrances to the city of Naples, while today it is notable for the two churches that face onto the square and the spire at its center. The 15th-century church of Gesù Nuovo, as mentioned, has an intimidating stone facade that belies its ornately decorated interior. The 14th-century church of Santa Chiara is a monastery and also houses an archaeological museum.
The center of the Piazza del Gesu is marked by an ornate statue called the “Guglia dell'Immacolata,” or Spire of the Immaculate Virgin. It was commissioned in the 17th century to ask the Virgin Mary to protect the city from the plague.
Practical Info
This piazza is great for people-watching during the day, but it really comes alive at night when many of the citizens of Naples use it as their personal drawing room after their typically late dinners.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 29
Parco Virgiliano
The ancient Roman poet Virgil didn't die in Naples, but the city had stolen his heart and he said he wanted to be buried there. At least that's what the Neapolitans say. On the pretty Posillipo Hill, there are three attractions associated with Virgil – two parks, and his supposed tomb. Both parks have variations on the same name – Parco Virgiliano.
At the base of the Posillipo Hill, the Parco Virgiliano a Piedigrotta (also known as the Parco Virgiliano a Mergellina, the neighborhood below Posillipo) includes a winding path up the side of the hill, with plants on either side and great views over the Gulf of Naples and beyond. Partway up the hill, the supposed location of Virgil's tomb is at the end of a long tunnel. Although it's less of a pilgrimage destination now, it's still popular with some visitors.
At the top of Posillipo Hill is the other Parco Virgiliano (also called Parco Virgiliano a Posillipo). In addition to green space, this park also has a few playgrounds for kids and a small amphitheater where there are sometimes performances in the summer months. The park on top of the hill is a perfect place to enjoy the views over the historic city, the water, and even Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.
Even if you're not staying in the posh Posillipo neighborhood, it can be an excellent place to spend a romantic evening, with a walk through the park, dinner at a nice restaurant, and a parting view over the lit-up city before heading back to your hotel for the night.
Address: Viale Virgilio, Naples 80123, Italy
From $ 27
San Carlo Opera House (Teatro di San Carlo)
Naples' opera house, the Teatro di San Carlo, is not only Italy's oldest opera house—it's also the longest-running opera house in Europe, open since 1737.
The site was built under King Charles VII, a member of the Bourbon monarchy, so the theater was originally called the “Royal” opera house. In November 1737, the opera house opened its doors for the first time, but an 1816 fire consumed the entire interior of the building—only the outer structure was left standing. The theater was rebuilt, and it reopened the next year.
Today, the opera season begins in late January and continues through May. You can also see ballet performances at the theater—that season runs from April through the beginning of June.
Practical Info
The Teatro di San Carlo is located near the Piazza del Plebiscito and is attached to the Royal Palace. Opera ticket prices range from €32 to €400, depending on seat location. Tickets for the symphony and ballet cost less. The opera house also offers 45-minute guided tours in Italian and English every day from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and additionally from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tours of the theater are €6 for adults and €5 for seniors and children.
Address: Via San Carlos, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 40
San Gregorio Armeno (Christmas Alley)
It’s Christmas all year round at San Gregorio Armeno. The fun, colorful and sometimes crowded alley offers a place to wander and see Naples famed nativity settings and figures called Presepe or Presepio.
First displayed in monasteries in the 16th and 17th century, nativity scenes made their way into aristocratic homes, eventually becoming a tradition for all. Many people put up their nativity scene December 8, the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception, but wait until Christmas Eve to add baby Jesus. Displays often go beyond a manager scene, and can represent the life of an entire community or village.
Practical Info
San Gregorio Armeno is lined with displays and stalls staffed by artists selling Nativity scenes and figures all year round, but as you can imagine, the holiday season can be an especially busy time. Depending on when you go, you may be able to watch craftspeople at work, carving and painting.
Address: Via San Gregorio Armeno, Naples 80138, Italy
From $ 39
Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei)
There is a hiking trail high above the picturesque Amalfi Coast known as the Path of the Gods, and it offers visitors a chance to get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery without leaving the ground.
The Path of the Gods - or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian - connects two little towns in the hills above the popular Amalfi Coast beach towns. The trail runs between Agerola (above Praiano) and Nocelle (above Positano) for about 4.8 miles.
The trail winds along the coastline, with an average of a 1,640-foot drop to the sea below. The views are spectacular - the lofty position is the reason the trail has such a poetic name. Hikers can start at either end of the trail, there is no “right” direction to walk in, but most start in Agerola because then the hike is primarily downhill to Nocelle and then you can descend some 1,500 steps into Positano itself.
There are many options for guided hikes of the Path of the Gods, which eliminate the need to figure out local buses and find the trailhead. There are day trips from the Amalfi Coast towns as well as Sorrento and Naples.
Practical Info
Be sure you’re wearing good hiking or walking shoes, and bring along plenty of water and sunscreen. You may also want to pack a picnic and stop along the way for lunch. Note that in some areas, the trail runs right next to the edge of the cliff - those with a severe fear of heights may find this disconcerting.
Address: Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy
From $ 617
Posillipo Hill
Naples is an enormous, sprawling city, and although some of the population lives in the historic center – where most visitors spend their time – most live in neighborhoods surrounding the city center. One of the prettiest and wealthiest neighborhoods in Naples is Posillipo, located on the northern side of the Gulf of Naples atop a hill that overlooks the water.
From the port in Naples you'll wind your way north through the city center and then along the coast to Posillipo Hill, where you'll see some of the city's most beautiful houses. In some cases, these villas have been broken up more recently into apartments – but many of them are still private homes for elite Neapolitan families. Without a car, you can take the funicular from the Mergellina neighborhood below up to the top of Posillipo Hill.
Because the neighborhood on Posillipo Hill is primarily residential, there aren't many attractions on the hill that you'll have on your itinerary. It's an excellent spot for a picturesque stroll, particularly when the weather is clear and you can see across the Gulf of Naples to Mt. Vesuvius looming to the south. There are good restaurants in Posillipo, too, which are less apt to cater to tourists – something you might be craving if you're an adventurous foodie.
Posillipo Hill does have a couple of sights worth checking out. The ruin of an ancient Roman villa is at the bottom of the hill on the water, including the remains of an amphitheater built into the hill. Access to the ruin is via the Grotta di Seiano, a cave underneath the hill. Shopaholics will also appreciate the outdoor Posillipo Market, in which you'll find everything from housewares to designer duds (it's only open on Thursdays). The ancient Roman poet Virgil wished to be buried in Naples, and the spot that is said to have been his tomb is at the base of Posillipo Hill (never mind that no remains are there – it's still a pilgrimage location). There are also two parks dedicated to Virgil in Posillipo – one at the top of the hill, and one at the bottom. Both can be a welcome respite from the bustle that is Naples.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 35
Pio Monte della Misericordia
This small octagonal church is best known as the home to Caravaggio’s The Seven Works of Mercy. Many visitors come to see the famous Caravaggio prominently hung high above the altar not realizing the extensive collection of other artists on display. Some hang in the church itself, other in the Quadreria, or Picture Gallery.
Pio Monte della Misericordia (Pious Mount of Mercy) is a charitable institution, founded in the early 1600s by seven Neapolitan nobles who strived to help those in need. The organization continues their work today.
Practical Info
Pio Monte della Misericordia is located in the historical center of Naples, opposite the Riario Sforza square. Free audio guides in Italian, English, French, German and Spanish are included with admission. Pio Monte della Misericordia is closed on Wednesdays.
Address: Via dei Tribunali, 253, Naples 80139, Italy
From $ 458
Via Toledo
Winding past some of Naples' most noteworthy attractions, Via Toledo is one of the city's oldest streets. Travelers who wander down this 0.7-mile (1.2 km) -long stretch of picturesque pavement will pass the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Teatro Augusteo and the stunning Galleria Umberto.
In addition to some incredible architectural and cultural attractions, there are plenty of Italian boutiques and big-name department stores along Via Toledo, while dozens of tasty restaurants set on quiet side streets provide perfect spots to enjoy a traditional Naples lunch. And of course, the street itself is home to what is easily considered the city's best people-watching.
Practical Info
Via Toledo stretches from Piazza Dante to Piazza del Plebiscito. Because this street attracts plenty of travelers and tourists, it's best to be aware of surroundings and keep an eye on personal belongings while shopping.
Address: Via Toledo, Naples, Italy
From $ 39
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
Naples’ Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) is a stellar reminder of this city’s royal history. Construction began in the 1600s when Spain’s Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro ruled Naples, and the site was designed by Renaissance architect Domenico Fontana. Today, visitors can enter to take the soaring double staircase up to the royal apartments decorated by architect Gaetano Genovese.
The Basics
Palace highlights include the Court Theater (Teatrino di Corte) designed by Ferdinando Fuga, the Throne Room, the Hall of Hercules ballroom, and the Royal Chapel (Cappella Reale), home to a monumental 18th-century nativity scene.
The palace is one of the most important historical tourist destinations in central Naples, so it is important to book your Royal Palace of Naples entrance ticket in advance to avoid having to wait in a long line to enter. You can also join a Naples city walking tour or sightseeing tour by Segway or bike that includes visits to the Palazzo Reale, the nearby Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace interiors and courtyard are open daily from 9am to 7pm, with the exception of Wednesdays and holidays.
- The palace and courtyard are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible via an internal elevator.
- There are free storage lockers for small personal belongings, but no luggage storage.
How to Get There
This sumptuous royal residence is located on the central Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest square. Take the ANM R2 bus to the Via San Carlo station, or the metro line 1 to Toledo, a 15-minute walk away. Naples is the capital city of Campania, so easy to reach by train and ferry for a day trip from Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.
When to Get There
The Royal Palace is one of the most important monuments in Naples, and best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds. Entrance is free the first Sunday of the month, so the palace can also be very crowded then.
The Biblioteca Nazionale
The Royal Palace is also home to the National Library, which contains thousands of papyrus scrolls found at Herculaneum as well as the remains of a fifth-century Coptic bible.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, 80132, Italy
Hours: 9am - 8pm, closed Wednesdays
Admission: Varies
From $ 10