10 Best Things to Do in Naples

Looking for what to do in Naples? Naples, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, bursts with ancient history, chaotic energy, artistic treasures and incredible food. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre is a living tapestry of Roman streets, medieval churches, Baroque architecture and vibrant Neapolitan life. With dramatic coastal scenery, archaeological wonders and volcanic landscapes, Naples offers a travel experience that is gritty, authentic and unforgettable.

From underground ruins and royal palaces to world-famous pizza, sweeping bay views and legendary archaeological sites, here are the 10 best things to do in Naples to help you plan the perfect trip.

1. Explore the Historic Centre (Centro Storico)

The Centro Storico is the beating heart of Naples — a maze of narrow alleys, ancient churches, bustling squares, artisan workshops and lively street scenes. Walking along Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali gives you an immediate feel for the city’s layered history, where Roman roads meet medieval palaces and locals chat from balconies above. The district is atmospheric at all hours, with street vendors, musicians, cafés and trattorias creating nonstop movement and energy.

Make sure to explore San Gregorio Armeno, the famous artisans’ street lined with shops selling handcrafted nativity figurines and intricate miniatures. The area’s churches, including the Gothic Santa Chiara and the Baroque Gesù Nuovo, showcase the artistic richness for which Naples is known. Every corner of the Centro Storico tells a different story, making it one of the most compelling historic districts in Europe.

2. Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum

The Naples National Archaeological Museum is one of the world’s greatest repositories of ancient Roman art and artifacts. Its extraordinary collection includes mosaics, frescoes, statues, bronzes and everyday objects excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum. The museum offers a vivid and intimate look at daily life before the eruption of Vesuvius, preserving details that have survived for nearly two millennia. The famed Farnese sculptures — massive marble masterpieces — are among the museum’s most awe-inspiring highlights.

The Secret Cabinet, a collection of ancient erotic art, provides a fascinating insight into Roman culture and humour. With well-organized galleries and extraordinary archaeological treasures, the museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in ancient history. You could easily spend several hours wandering its halls and still discover new wonders.

3. Tour the Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea)

Beneath the streets of Naples lies a hidden world of tunnels, aqueducts, catacombs and ancient passageways that reveal the city’s long and complex past. A guided tour of Napoli Sotterranea takes you deep underground to explore Greek quarries, Roman cisterns, narrow tunnels used during World War II and hidden chambers that few visitors would ever find on their own. The contrast between the busy streets above and the silence below creates a uniquely atmospheric experience.

Other underground attractions, such as the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Bourbon Tunnel, offer additional perspectives on Naples’ layered history. Whether you’re fascinated by archaeology, engineering or urban legends, exploring the city beneath the city is one of Naples’ most unforgettable adventures.

4. Visit Pompeii

Just a short journey from Naples, Pompeii is one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites — a Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking along its ancient streets, you’ll encounter remarkably preserved homes, frescoes, bathhouses, bakeries, theatres and even graffiti that provide an intimate portrait of everyday life in antiquity. The scale of the city and the level of preservation make Pompeii a powerful and immersive historical experience.

Highlights include the House of the Faun, the Forum, the amphitheatre and beautifully restored frescoes. You can explore the site independently or join a guided tour for deeper insight into Roman society and the dramatic events of the eruption. Visiting Pompeii is both moving and educational — a rare opportunity to witness history frozen in place.

5. Climb Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius looms dramatically over Naples and the surrounding bay, offering a reminder of the volcano’s destructive power — and its role in shaping the region’s history. Visiting the volcano allows you to hike up the final stretch to the crater rim, where panoramic views of Naples, the sea and the entire coastline unfold below. The path is manageable for most visitors and rewards you with a close look at the steaming volcanic crater.

On clear days, the scenery is spectacular, and the unique landscape provides excellent photo opportunities. Guides stationed at the top share information about the volcano’s geology and its infamous 79 AD eruption. Combining Vesuvius with a visit to Pompeii or Herculaneum makes for a memorable full-day excursion.

6. Explore Castel dell’Ovo

Castel dell’Ovo, Naples’ oldest surviving fortress, sits dramatically on a small island connected to the city by a scenic walkway. The castle offers beautiful views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius and the city skyline. Inside, visitors can explore courtyards, towers, halls and terraces that reflect centuries of architectural evolution and legend — including the mythical origins of the castle’s name, tied to the poet Virgil.

The surrounding Santa Lucia district is ideal for strolling along the waterfront, enjoying cafés or photographing fishing boats moored along the shore. At sunset, Castel dell’Ovo becomes one of the most romantic and picturesque spots in Naples.

7. Visit the Royal Palace of Naples

The Royal Palace of Naples, overlooking Piazza del Plebiscito, is an impressive 17th-century palace filled with grand staircases, ornate halls, lavish apartments and beautifully preserved historic rooms. The palace showcases the elegance of Bourbon rule, with richly decorated ceilings, portraits, tapestries and furnishings that reflect centuries of royal life. The monumental staircase alone is worth the visit, offering a dramatic entrance into the palace’s regal world.

Inside, the Royal Apartments display period furniture and artwork, while the courtyard and palace exterior contribute to the majestic ambience of the surrounding square. It’s an excellent place to learn about Naples’ role within the former Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

8. Wander the Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli)

The Spanish Quarter is one of Naples’ most vibrant and characteristic districts — a network of narrow streets filled with scooters, street shrines, murals, hanging laundry and bustling local life. The energy here is uniquely Neapolitan, offering a raw, colourful and authentic snapshot of the city’s personality. Exploring its alleys reveals small cafés, traditional eateries, local shops and surprising pockets of street art.

Via Toledo, which borders the district, is one of Naples’ main shopping streets and a lively entry point into the area. The Spanish Quarter is also an excellent destination for tasting traditional Neapolitan dishes at neighbourhood trattorias. It’s a must-visit for travellers seeking an urban experience full of character.

9. Explore Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)

Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is one of Naples’ most striking medieval fortresses. Its grand triumphal arch, flanked by massive cylindrical towers, makes the castle instantly recognisable from the waterfront. Inside, the complex contains a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements, historic halls, a small museum and a picturesque courtyard that reflects centuries of royal and military history.

The upper terraces offer excellent views of the port and surrounding city, making it a great stop before or after exploring the nearby Piazza del Municipio and seafront. Its location and dramatic architecture make Castel Nuovo one of the most photographed landmarks in Naples.

10. Enjoy Naples’ legendary food scene

Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and eating an authentic Neapolitan pizza is an essential part of any visit. From classic margherita to fried pizza (pizza fritta), the city’s pizzerias deliver unbeatable flavour with simple, high-quality ingredients. But Naples’ culinary offerings extend far beyond pizza — fresh seafood, pasta dishes, street food, pastries and strong espresso define the city’s food culture.

Don’t miss sfogliatella, babà, arancini, cuoppo (fried seafood cones) and local wines from volcanic soil. Neighbourhoods like Chiaia, Vomero and the Centro Storico offer fantastic dining options ranging from casual street stalls to elegant restaurants. With its bold flavours and proud culinary traditions, Naples is one of Italy’s great food capitals.