Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Naples, Italy. #Top Attractions

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Ready to pack your bags and head to Naples, Italy? Make the most of your vacation time in Naples, Italy, we have compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Naples, Italy. Explore the top attractions and activities in the best places to go in Naples, Italy, by scrolling down! As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world.

Cappella Sansevero

Cappella Sansevero is one of the best places to go in Naples, Italy.

Baroque ingenuity, imperial fervor, natural splendor, and a sense of the unexplainable come together to create a singular and seemingly ageless environment.

The Cappella Sansevero was initially constructed in 1590 as the private chapel of the Sansevero family. Still, it was eventually converted into the family’s burial chapel.

In the 18th century, the eccentric mystic Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of Sansevero, gave a baroque makeover by embellishing it ornately in the baroque style.

The best examples of his commissioned works are Sammartino’s Veiled Christ (1753) and two other sculptures that appear to be shrouded in translucent marble tissue.

Two more marble sculptures, both depicting a male figure half-covered in nets, are so meticulously carved that it’s hard to believe they were produced from the same piece of stone.

The chapel’s most intriguing exhibitions are the two Anatomical Machines, which demonstrate the circulatory system and muscles using silk, wire, and beeswax.

In addition to the Prince’s peculiar collection, he added Masonic symbols to the chapel, which naturally led to speculations about the Prince’s experiments in the adjacent palace and his strange collection.

Have a peek at some of this chapel’s greatest works and collections!

Address: Via Francesco de Sanctis, 19/21, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Caserta Royal Palace

Caserta Royal Palace Naples, Italy
Caserta Royal Palace Naples, Italy / Emmanuel Granatello / FLickr

Experience what life was like for royalty, take in the unparalleled magnificence of its 1,200 rooms, and learn about the region’s long and illustrious past.

The best royal palace in all of Italy is the Reggia di Caserta, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The largest royal mansion in the world by volume was designed by Luigi Vanvitelli in the early 1700s. It occupied an area of 47,000 square meters.

Many important collections and artworks are part of the broader Royal Palace complex, including the Naples Academy of Fine Arts, the major European court collections and portraits from the Bourbon, the Terrae Motus Contemporary Art collection, and many other works of diverse origins.

Upon exiting the Royal Palace, you will be greeted by the 120-hectare Royal Park, which comprises mostly Italian and English gardens, both adorned with basins, fountains, and picturesque waterfalls.

Its extensive grounds, with their groomed vegetation and artwork, are just as impressive as the palace’s interior, so hurry and check it out because you don’t want to miss it!

Address: Piazza Carlo di Borbone, 81100 Caserta CE, Italy

Castel dell’Ovo

Castel dell’Ovo, Naples, Italy
Castel dell’Ovo, Naples, Italy / N i c o l a / Flickr

A beautiful sea-bound fortress will welcome you as soon as you arrive at Naples’ port.

Castel dell’Ovo, also known as Egg Castle, is an impressive castle that overlooks the Gulf of Naples. 

Throughout its lengthy history, it has been utilized to defend the city of Naples, as a jail, and as the residence of royal families.

Legend has it that the Roman poet Virgil concealed a magical egg in the foundations of the stronghold, and he made a pact that if the egg were ever to be shattered, the city would be doomed to endure terrible disasters.

Even though events and temporary art exhibitions are held at Castel dell’Ovo, walking around the castle’s fortified stone walls gives visitors a great sense of its turbulent past.

Even though the castle itself is nearly deserted, its location on the Gulf of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the background allows for unparalleled vistas.

Visit now and get a sense of the city’s long history, and viewing the surrounding region is accessible with free admission. 

Address: Via Eldorado, 3, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Castel Nuovo

Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo, Naples, Italy / TWojtowicz / Flickr

Catch a glimpse of a medieval castle that looks like it came straight out of a movie!

One of Naples’ most recognizable landmarks is the Castel Nuovo, seen from the city’s port.

Known as Maschio Angioino, Castel Nuovo was built in 1266 on the orders of Charles I of Anjou, who had conquered the Swabians, risen to Sicily’s monarchy, and relocated the capital from Palermo to Naples.

It has undergone many changes and additions from Aragonese, French, Austrian, and Spanish authorities to the present.

It was initially constructed by Charles I of Anjou between the years 1279 and 1282, and it was later expanded by Alfonso I of Aragon. 

Alfonso, I of Aragon ordered the construction of the magnificent Early Renaissance Triumphal Arch in between the towers between the years 1453 and 1467 to commemorate his successful entry into the city.

Take a tour of the castle and appreciate the gorgeous towers, stand in the central courtyard, observe the painted ceiling in the Baron’s Hall, and climb the castle ramparts for breathtaking views of Naples and the harbor.

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele III, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy

Castel Sant’Elmo

Castel Sant’Elmo
Castel Sant’Elmo, Naples, Italy / Andrea Schaffer /Flickr

A gorgeous old fortification that sat upon a hill above the city, and it offered some of the best views of Naples as well as lots of space for contemplation.

Castel Sant’Elmo is positioned on the highest point of the Vomero hill in Largo San Martino, giving it a commanding presence over the city of Naples. 

From this vantage point, one can take in a breathtaking panorama of the city’s historic core.

Built in 1300 on the site of a church dedicated to Sant’Erasmo, it was known as Eramo before becoming Ermo and finally Elmo before taking on its current name.

Begin with it was a Norman observation tower named Belforte, and it was commissioned in 1325 under the reign of Roberto d’Angi to build the Palatium castrum, which was completed in 1343 under the reign of Giovanna I d’Anjou.

Enjoy the views from Sant’Elmo, and, as a bonus, the Certosa di San Martino is a great way to end an afternoon of sightseeing on Vomero Hill.

Address: Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy

Chiostri di Santa Chiara

Chiostri di Santa Chiara is one of the best places to go in Naples, Italy.

Santa Chiara isn’t only about the cloister; there are many other reasons to stop by.

Since it was built in 1310, the cloister of the Monastery of Santa Chiara has looked more like an amusement park than an austere convent.

In vibrant colors and designs, these majolica tiles cover 66 octagonal columns that encircle its courtyard and lengthy benches covered in tiles.

There are depictions of everyday life from the monastery’s era–the mid-1700s–that make it appear as though the secular world had entered the monastery. 

The Old Testament scenes painted on the cloister walls in the 17th century can be found beneath the porticos.

On the right is a Nativity scene situated in a Roman ruin, which incorporates everyday Neapolitan life as well as the religious scene of the baby Jesus in a manger.

A possible explanation for the film’s Roman-era setting is the early 18th century’s fervor over the discovery of Herculaneum.

Find out more about this place through its museum and the archaeological area.

Address: Via Santa Chiara, 49/C, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Diego Armando Maradona Stadium

Diego Armando Maradona Stadium is one of the best places to go in Naples, Italy.

Join the roaring crowd and cheer for your favorite team!

The only other belief system that can compete with that of the church in this country is football, and the most revered figure associated with it is Diego Maradona.

During his seven years with the Italian club, from 1984 to 1991, Maradona, who is widely recognized as one of the best footballers of all time, formed a deep rapport with the club’s fans and became an integral part of the team.

The playing area has dimensions of 110 by 68 meters and can be found in the Fuorigrotta neighborhood.

The stadium underwent renovations first for the European Championships in 1980, which were held there, and subsequently for the World Cup held in Italy in 1990.

Work includes erecting a new press stand with 330 seats, replacing the track’s aging lighting system, and bringing the stadium up to FIFA’s safety standards.

Athletic facilities include an 8-lane athletics track, a boxing gym, three multipurpose gyms, a martial arts, a fitness gym, and oriental wrestling.

Watch a live tournament and enjoy it because it’s impossible not to get goosebumps when you’re surrounded by 50,000 screaming fans all hoping for the same thing.

Address: Piazzale Vincenzo Tecchio, 80125 Napoli NA, Italy

Gesù Nuovo

Gesù Nuovo, Naples, Italy
Gesù Nuovo, Naples, Italy / Michel Rodriguez / Flickr

Spend some time exploring the extravagant interiors.

A large piazza in the city’s west is home to a church called Gesù Nuovo, which has an almost brutalist-looking façade.

The Church of Gesù Nuovo, also known as the Great Trinity, is considered to be one of the most significant basilicas in all of Naples. 

It was first constructed as a palace in the 15th century and was given its current name to differentiate itself from the previous church of Jesus. 

It was once a palace that was constructed in the year 1470 by Roberto Sanseverino, who was the Prince of Salerno. 

After some time had passed, the Aragonese took possession of the family and confiscated Palace Sanseverino; it was ultimately returned to the family.

The palace became famed for the grandeur of its interior, with its chambers covered with paintings and its gorgeous garden, becoming an icon of Renaissance and Baroque Neapolitan architecture.

Find out more about Dr. Giuseppe Moscati, a medical practitioner who worked in the early 19th century to treat those who were financially disadvantaged.

Address: Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, 2, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Herculaneum

Herculaneum, Naples, Italy
Herculaneum, Naples, Italy / Andrea Schaffer / Flickr

What better way to get to grips with such a dark and interesting history than to go about it?

During the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the year AD 79, the Roman resort town of Herculaneum was swallowed by molten lava rather than ash. 

As a result, the buildings in Herculaneum were sustained by the lava as it rose in-depth, in contrast to Pompeii, which was engulfed by ash.

Presents an experience that is even more culturally enriching and far less touristic, with more signage geared at tourists to help you comprehend what you are viewing.

The modest fishing community was rather prosperous in its day, as evidenced by the artwork and architecture found around the city.

The Villa of the Papyri and the House of Argus, both located within the complex and have stunning frescos and wall paintings, are two of the most interesting attractions.

There’s a lot more for you to discover on your visit!

Address: Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy

Lungomare Caracciolo

Lungomare Caracciolo is one of the best places to go in Naples, Italy.

Walk along the wide boardwalk along the coast and stretch your legs.

A delightful pedestrian strip surrounded by luxury hotels, restaurants that have won awards, and boutique shops.

Look at the beautiful shoreline from the top of the mountain, Mount Vesuvius, Vomero’s Liberty-style homes, and two castles as they stretch 2.5 kilometers along Via Partenope Via Caracciolo. 

It is around dusk, as Capri and the Volcano turn a warm orange, that the encounter is at its most romantic.

The Villa Comunale, a large, lush garden built by Luigi Vanvitelli for private Bourbon pleasure, separates the Lungomare from the Riviera di Chiaia.

The Stazione Zoologica, Europe’s oldest aquarium, is also located in the park.

It was founded by German Darwinist Anton Dohrn and is situated in a grand neoclassical structure designed by Adolf von Hildebrand.

Take a moment to relax on Naples’ pedestrianized seafront and exhale deeply if you feel the need to get away from the city’s hectic atmosphere.

Address: Via Francesco Caracciolo, Napoli NA, Italy

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Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Italy
Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Italy / Harshil Shah / Flickr

Be amazed by the historical Volcano and one of the two active volcanoes in Europe!

A symmetrical core cone and steep woody slopes characterize Mount Vesuvius.

This national park is home to vineyards and small farms that cultivate heirloom varieties of wine and also breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius and the surrounding area.

It’s a must-see for visitors from all over the world, and the crater’s trail is a popular one.

This Volcano was all the rage in the early days because of its renown as the cause of the destruction of Pompeii in 79AD.

It was 1841 when the Volcanological Observatory was established, and it was 1855 when the national Mountain Guide Association was established.

It offers guides who may take tourists to the top of Mount Vesuvius, which is one of the most popular activities in the area.

Moreover, buses and shuttles stop at the ticket office approximately 1,050 meters above sea level to transport tourists to Mount Vesuvius’ lower slopes.

There are stunning views of Mount Vesuvius and its surrounding park, the Bay of Naples, and the Campanian Plain at the start of the trail.

Take a great experience and have an eye-catching view by visiting this Volcano!

Address: 80044 Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina (MADRE)

Museo d’Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina (MADRE) is one of the best places to go in Naples, Italy.

Look at something newer than Italy at some point, and you’ll be glad you did!

This contemporary art museum is located in Naples’ historic San Lorenzo quarter on the “Via dei Musei,” or “Via dei Musei,” which connects the Duomo, the Museum of Archaeology, and the Accademia di Belle Arti.

The Palazzo Donnaregina, which houses the museum, is the inspiration for the museum’s name.

Originally known as Santa Maria Donnaregina Monastery, the structure was constructed in the late 1800s and was named after the historic monastery that originally existed on the hill above the Palazzo.

As a result, in 2005, the Campania Regional Government purchased the Palazzo and turned it into a museum of contemporary art, which the Fondazione Donnaregina per le arti contemporanee currently leases at no cost to them.

lvaro Siza Veira, a Portuguese architect, devised an elaborate renovation and remodeling plan for the space’s new use. As a result, there is a 7,200 square meter display area, with 2,662 square meters dedicated to exhibition use.

A library, a mediatheque, and a bookshop/cafeteria are now part of the museum’s offerings to the public.

Visit, explore, and learn! An outstanding historic building with historical artifacts!

Address: Via Luigi Settembrini, 79, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

Naples Cathedral

Naples Cathedral, Naples, Italy
Naples Cathedral, Naples, Italy / Andrea Schaffer / Flickr

A hundred years of historic site will always be enticing to visitors!

Built in the 13th century by Charles I of Anjou, the Catholic Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (or the Duomo of Naples, or the Cathedrale di San Gennaro) is located in Naples’ historic center. 

Known as one of Naples’ most beautiful and spectacular structures, the Cathedral of Naples is a must-see for visitors.

Due in part to the combination of diverse architectural styles, this is the case. Starting with 14th-century pure Gothic and ending in 19th-century Gothic.

The present-day Naples Cathedral is a spectacular example of a fusion of several architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and neo-Gothic.

One of its most striking features is a massive dome adorned with heavenly images that cover the Royal Chapel of St. Januarius’s Treasure, which houses the treasure.

Archaeological remains of a 4th-century church, Santa Restituta, can be accessed from the north aisle of Naples Cathedral.

There is a large collection of historical artifacts in Santa Restituta, which includes a museum, Greek and Roman excavations, and an early Christian crypt.

Visiting a historical site is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so make the most of it!

Address: Naples, Italy

Naples Harbour

Naples Harbour, Naples, Italy
Naples Harbour, Naples, Italy / Christine McIntosh / Flickr

Check out all the trades and transactions in the busiest port in Italy!

Naples is Italy’s busiest port, and maritime trade is the city’s primary source of income.

Every hour of the day, the port system’s docks are a hive of activity due to their division into distinct sections.

In history, the redevelopment of Naples’ ancient harbor area presents a chance to replace the military installations that are now located in the citadel zone around the Acton Dock.

This was established in the late 17th century. A number of improvements, such as the basin and the dry dock, were added in the adjacent region throughout the 19th-century construction of the San Vincenzo Pier, which the Navy continued to utilize.

You might easily spend hours strolling among the piers and ports that stretch from the Castel Nuovo to the Piazza San Giovanni Battista.

You’ll come to the Porto di Mergellina, a hip spot with plenty of dining and drinking options and buzzing energy if you keep going west.

Visit the harbor to see the many yachts that are berthed there and to get a taste of local life.

Address: Naples, Italy

Naples National Archaeological Museum

Naples National Archaeological Museum, Naples, Italy
Naples National Archaeological Museum, Naples, Italy / Dave & Margie Hill / Kleerup / Flickr

Explore more of the Neapolitan culture through the collections of this museum!

As one of the world’s largest archeological museums, Naples’ National Archeological Museum is known for its Roman and Egyptian collections, the latter of which is Europe’s largest.

This museum houses several outstanding mosaics and frescoes from nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum, making it a must-see for anybody planning a vacation to this area.

After serving as a military barracks and cavalry barracks in the 1750s, the museum was converted to a museum in the 1980s.

An extensive collection of Roman and Greek artifacts and artwork from Pompeii and Herculaneum are displayed.

This collection contains marble statues depicting scenes from ancient mythology, exquisite mosaics from the ruins of Pompeii, and a significant collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummified bones and death masks.

People who are interested in ancient history and archaeology will enjoy spending time at this museum. If you are one of them, visit now!

Address: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Palazzo Reale

Palazzo Reale, Naples, Italy
Palazzo Reale, Naples, Italy / loloieg / Flickr

One of the city’s best-kept secrets.

The Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte, intended initially as a hunting lodge for King Charles III, grew into the royal home and a repository for the king’s Farnese collection.

While the front of the palace appears like something out of a Wes Anderson film, the interior is filled with enormous chambers painted in opulent colors, with chandeliers, paintings, and gold-leafed furniture.

Also, at the palace’s base, there are 12 detailed statues of past Naples Kings, ranging from Roger of Sicily to Frederick II, the Holy Roman Emperor.

The “Courtyard of Honor” and the “Hanging Gardens,” two particularly lovely outdoor spaces, are located in this historically significant and magnificent mansion.

One of Naples’ many ruling families may be traced back to its royal palace, which is open to the public for tours.

This is the place to go if you’re looking to get away from Naples’ bustling streets.

Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, 1, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Piazza del Plebiscito

Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples Italy
Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples Italy / Erin Mc / Flickr

Wondering where to start your tour? The Piazzo del Plebiscito is the perfect place to begin your exploration of Naples!

The Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ central square, is home to the Royal Palace and the Basilica Royale, two must-see attractions.

Just a few blocks from some of Naples’ most popular tourist attractions, including Teatro di San Carlo, Castel Nuovo, and the Quartieri Spagnoli, the city’s principal gathering area, is a short walk away.

Apart from those structures, the huge open space also houses the Palazzo Salerno, Prefecture Palace, and a statue of Charles III of Spain, in addition to the structures above.

Visit the well-known Gran Caffe Gambrinus for a cup of coffee and some people-watching while you’re there.

This café is a popular gathering place for the city’s artists and intellectuals, thanks to its impressive collection of contemporary Italian art.

The Piazza del Plebiscito is the ideal location to get to know the character of Naples because it is open throughout the day and at all hours.

Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Ruins of Pompeii

Ruins of Pompeii, Naples, Italy
Ruins of Pompeii, Naples, Italy / Güldem Üstün / Flickr

A city that had been stuck in time after Vesuvius’ explosion.

After visiting the National Archeological Museum in Naples, you will be eager to tour Naples’ more famous neighbor, Pompeii.

Pompeii is one of Naples’ most popular tourist attractions, and it has a lot to see and do.

Explore the vast, immaculately renovated theater, where you can be heard clearly by everyone in the audience if you stand in the center of the stage and speak.

If you’re looking for a brothel that’s known for its unique, filthy artwork over each doorway, this is it!

For centuries, the ashes of Pompeii have preserved the remains of people who tried to flee the volcanic eruption, now preserved forever.

One location where you may observe 13 of these skeletal figures arranged in a variety of configurations is called the Garden of the Fugitives.

A visit to Pompeii will provide you with an experience that is otherworldly and unique to anything else you will see anywhere else in the world.

Address: Campania, Southeast of Naples, Italy

San Gennaro Catacombs

San Gennaro Catacombs, Naples, Italy
San Gennaro Catacombs, Naples, Italy / Richard Mortel / Flickr

Have you ever thought of discovering a hidden underground realm that is filled with an incredible amount of intricate detail and hidden passageways?

The catacombs are located approximately 100 steps below the city and are home to over 3,000 burial sites. 

One of the most well-known burial sites in the catacombs is that of San Gennaro, known as Naples’s patron saint.

In the northern section of Naples, next to the Basilica dell’Incoronata, you’ll find the entrance to this surreal site.

The two floors of the catacombs are carved out of stone and have arched ceilings that can rise to six meters in the air.

Ancient Christian art from all around Italy can be found preserved in the stone depths of these catacombs.

Stepping into the catacombs is like entering a time machine, transporting you to another reality filled with long-gone eras.

It is highly recommended that you hire a guide for your trip to comprehend and appreciate everything you see to its fullest.

Address: Via Capodimonte, 13, 80100 Napoli NA, Italy

Santa Lucia

Santa Lucia, Naples, Italy
Santa Lucia, Naples, Italy / Elliott Brown/ Flickr

Get a sense of what it’s like to live like a local in Naples and experience some of the vibrant cultures the city has to offer simultaneously.

The Santa Lucia district is located west of the Piazza del Plebiscito, on the Pizzofalcone slopes and stretching to the sea.

Modern streets line the southern end of the neighborhood, south of Via Santa Lucia. The northern end is home to narrow, tiered passageways where you can experience traditional Neapolitan life firsthand.

To miss this actual neighborhood with stores and bakeries, craftsmen’s workshops, small cafes where residents down their espresso, and streets where children play would be a tragedy.

The tiny streets are filled with balconies and windows, and laundry is often seen hanging from the rafters.

As a popular nighttime attraction in Naples, it’s a dynamic and vibrant destination to visit at any time.

You haven’t made up your mind to go to Naples, Italy, yet, have you? Visit why visit Naples, Italy, at least once in your lifetime here?

Address: Naples, Italy

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