15+ top attractions & best places to visit in Naples

April 30, 2025

Traveling to Italy but don’t know where to go or what to see? Then check out the list of famous Naples tourist attractions with 15+ must-see, top attractions & best places to visit in Naples below!

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As a southern Italian city, Naples seems “chaotic” with heavy traffic and old streets, but it is home to countless beautiful museums and churches. Walking around the city, you will encounter many structures such as the Duomo, Gesù Nuovo or Cappella Sansevero with their own beauty. The surrounding area also has countless attractive landmarks such as the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

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Let’s explore famous Naples tourist destinations with many exciting experiences for your upcoming trip with us!

Mount Vesuvius – The HOTTEST Naples Tourist Place

Vesuvius – the legendary volcano that once caused Pompeii to disappear into a sea of ash, is now a destination not to be missed when visiting Naples. Standing on the crater, you will see the entire city in miniature below and feel the smoldering vitality of one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. To get here, you need to take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples central station to Ercolano Scavi, then take the Vesuvio Express shuttle bus to near the top.

Vesuvius National Park is open to visitors to explore with trails through ancient ash and lava. Climb to the top, in addition to the majestic scenery, you can sometimes see light smoke rising from the crater – a sign of a “giant” still awake. The route to visit the volcano is quite steep, so prepare comfortable sneakers!

Address: Bay of Naples in Campania, Italy
Opening hours: 24/7

Pompeii Ruins – The City Buried in History

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Pompeii is like a time capsule preserving the last moments of a once prosperous city. Buried under the ash of Vesuvius in 79 AD, this place reveals many vivid traces of ancient Roman life, from cobblestone streets, taverns, public baths to colorful frescoes.

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Vesuvius and Pompeii — | best places to visit in Naples

Walking through the ruins, you will clearly feel the breath of the past. The great theater, the central square, the luxurious villas are still present after centuries. One of the most special features is the plaster molds of the victims, recreating historical moments in a realistic way.

Address: Mount Vesuvius, Campania
Opening hours: 9:00 – 19:00

Ancient Roman City Herculaneum

Hidden under volcanic ash for centuries, Herculaneum is a door opening to the ancient Roman world with almost intact traces. Unlike Pompeii, this city was covered by lava flows up to 20 meters thick, helping to preserve the entire structure of houses, paintings and even furniture. Walking through the streets, you can see luxurious villas, colorful frescoes that still retain the same colors as the first day.

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Because the area is more compact than Pompeii, Herculaneum only takes a few hours to explore, but the experience is truly worth it. If you love history, you will not want to miss the many exquisite antiquities on display at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. To get here, you can take the train from Naples to Ercolano Scavi station, then walk for about 10 minutes.

Address: Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy
Opening hours: 8:30 – 18:00

Best places to visit in Naples: Royal Palace of Naples

In the heart of bustling Naples, the ruins of the Royal Palace still retain the splendor of a golden age. This place used to be the center of power of the dynasties, witnessing many ups and downs of history. Stepping through the majestic gate, you will be captivated by the architecture blending Baroque and Neoclassical, from the splendid frescoes and sophisticated interiors.

A stop not to be missed is the royal chapel with its beautiful marble statues, adding to the sacred space’s charm. If you love history, the collection of ancient weapons will bring a vivid perspective on the past. In addition, the lush green garden behind the palace is an ideal place for you to relax after your journey of discovery.

Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, 1, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:00 – 20:00. Closed on Wednesdays

Piazza Del Plebiscito – The Largest Square in Naples

Neoclassical architecture simulates a Greek temple of the Basilica of Saint Francesco. | best places to visit in Naples

A place that has marked the ups and downs of Naples’ history, Piazza del Plebiscito opens before your eyes with its captivating grandeur. This large square was once the center of power of the Naples dynasty, where the Spanish, Bourbon and Savoy royal families left their mark. On one side is the Palazzo Reale royal palace with its magnificent architecture, on the other side is the San Francesco di Paolo church with the appearance of the legendary Pantheon.

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Walking on the ancient stone floor, you will encounter the majestic statues of Carlo III di Borbone and Fernando I di Borbone, or admire the harmony of the two symmetrical buildings, the Prefecture Palace and Palazzo Salerno. You should wear comfortable clothes and sneakers for easy movement. Also, don’t forget to prepare your camera to “live virtual” with check-in points in the square!

Address: 80132 Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
Opening hours: 24/7

Castel Dell’ovo – Beautiful Ancient Castle on the Sea

Standing tall on the shore of the bay, Castel dell’Ovo attracts all eyes with its ancient and mysterious look. From the top of the fortress, a breathtaking view of the deep blue bay opens up before your eyes. The ancient stone-paved path leading inside helps you clearly feel the mark of time, from the Roman era to when it became a monastery and then an important citadel.

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At the foot of the castle, the small port of Borgo Marinari is an ideal stop to enjoy fresh seafood. If you visit in the late afternoon, the sunset will dye the sky golden, which is a good time for you to take photos. The castle is free to enter, but you should note that the stairs are quite steep, so prepare comfortable shoes to fully explore this place.

Address: Via Eldorado, 3, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:00 – 13:00

Spaccanapoli – The Street That Cuts the Old City in Two

If you come to Naples, let Spaccanapoli guide you through the most interesting things of this city. Spaccanapoli is like a sharp cut through the center of Naples, carrying the breath of history and vibrant life. Standing from Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the view of the long, straight street in the heart of the old city appears impressive.

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Strolling along Spaccanapoli, you will come across the church of Gesù Nuovo with its unique facade, Santa Luciella with the legend of the “eared” skull or San Gregorio Armeno street – where Christmas takes place all year round with stalls selling decorative statues of the nativity scene. For a culinary experience, try the strong coffee at Caffetteria Mexico or visit Taralleria Napoletana for crispy taralli.

Address: Spaccanapoli, 80132 Napoli, Italy, Naples
Opening hours: 24/7

Naples Archaeological Museum – Preserving Ancient Roman Heritage

Naples has a priceless treasure for history lovers: the National Archaeological Museum. The frescoes, mosaics and sculptures here take you back to the moment before the Vesuvius volcano engulfed the two cities in 79 AD. One of the impressive highlights is the extremely sophisticated mosaic depicting the battle between Alexander the Great and the Persian army.

The exhibition space also introduces many precious antiquities, from the papyrus scroll of the Villa dei Papiri to the Farnese collection with famous sculptures such as the Farnese bull. The museum also has a section dedicated to prehistory and jewelry, including the world’s largest carved gemstone. To get there, take the metro to Museo (line 1) and Cavour (line 2).

Address: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:00 – 18:30. Closed on Tuesdays

Naples Local Markets – Street Food Paradise

Want to get a full taste of local life in Naples? Then visit the vibrant and colorful markets filled with culinary flavors, fresh produce and unique culture. If you want to explore the daily life of the locals, don’t miss Mercato della Pignasecca – the oldest market, where many bustling stalls with seafood, vegetables, pastries and street specialties such as pizza di scarola with escarole, raisins and salty anchovies converge.

For a quieter space, Mercato de la Torretta in Chiaia is an ideal choice with an area selling handicrafts, clothes and small restaurants serving polpette, meatballs with rich Italian flavors. And if you love seafood, visit Mercato del Pesce di Porta Nolana, where fresh shrimp, squid and oysters are sold from early morning. Come to the markets early to choose the best food and enjoy the flavors of Naples to the fullest!

Amalfi Coast – Must-See Destinations Near Naples

Over the towering cliffs, the Amalfi Coast appears like a colorful painting, embracing the view of the blue Mediterranean. Stretching from Positano to Vietri sul Mare, this place attracts visitors with its steep cliffs, blue coves and peaceful villages like paintings. Strolling along the mountainside roads, you will encounter bright citrus groves, vast vineyards and traditional craft shops.

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Don’t miss the chance to explore the coves nestled between the cliffs or admire the magnificence of the Amalfi Cathedral. A must-do is to row into the sea caves, where the reflected light creates a magical scene. Note that the coast is quite narrow and often crowded during peak season, so traveling by bus or boat is more convenient.

Address: 84011 Amalfi, Province of Salerno, Italy
Opening hours: 24/7

Port of Naples – Gateway to Capri and Neighboring Islands

Naples was once a stopover on the journey to Amalfi, Capri or Sorrento, and today, this vibrant port city increasingly attracts tourists with its own beauty and pace. The port is bustling with large cruise ships, taking visitors to famous islands such as Capri, Sorrento or Amalfi. Stepping into the city center, you will immediately be attracted by the old street, the luxurious cafes and the traditional pizza shops.

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Just a few minutes walk, you can admire the magnificent Castel Nuovo – the 15th century fortress or visit the San Carlo Theater, one of the oldest opera houses in Europe. If you have time, try a ferry to Capri or Sorrento to enjoy the wonderful Mediterranean beauty.

Address: 80133 Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
Opening hours: 24/7

San Gennaro Catacombs – Sacred Space Under the Ground of Naples

Deep under the city of Naples, the San Gennaro Catacombs take you into the mysterious world of ancient passages and frescoes preserved from the 2nd century. Originally the resting place of a noble family, this area later became a cemetery for the Christian community. In particular, when the relics of San Gennaro were moved here in the 5th century, the catacombs gradually became a sacred pilgrimage site.

The difference between San Gennaro and other Roman catacombs is the spacious space thanks to the easy-to-carve tuffo structure. When walking through the corridors, you will encounter many ancient wall paintings and many structures reflecting the beliefs of centuries ago. The journey to explore the catacombs will help you feel the deep connection between the past and the present. Don’t forget to join the guided tour so you don’t miss any historical details here!

Address: Via Sanità, 123, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:30 – 17:00. Closed on Wednesdays

Bourbon Tunnels – The Mysterious Labyrinth of the Bourbon Dynasty

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In bustling Naples, a mysterious journey awaits beneath the stairs leading to the past. This structure was created in 1853 by order of King Ferdinand II, originally designed as a secret escape route connecting the royal palace to the outside area. However, the plan was left unfinished when the Bourbon dynasty collapsed, leaving behind an unfinished but fascinating underground system.

Entering here, you will encounter tuffo stone walls engraved with traces of workers centuries ago. During World War II, this place was used as a bunker for thousands of city residents. Many abandoned objects are still in place, from dusty old cars to children’s toys. The experience of exploring the tunnels is sure to be both exciting and chilling.

Address: Via Domenico Morelli, 61 c, 80121 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00, Friday to Sunday

Darwin-Dohrn Museum – A Journey to Discover Deep Sea Science

Entering the Darwin-Dohrn Museum, you will begin a journey back in time, discovering the amazing evolution of life under the ocean. Here, you will be led on a journey through time, from primitive creatures that appeared 3 billion years ago, to Darwin and Dohrn’s theory of evolution that changed the way we see the development and change of nature.
Each exhibition area is a story about the sea, from primitive creatures to modern species with impressive adaptation mechanisms. Fossils, biological specimens and models of marine animals help recreate the evolutionary process through each geological era. In particular, the giant sperm whale skeleton and multifunctional exhibition space provide an inspiring learning experience.

With a spacious space, the museum also organizes seminars, exhibitions and documentaries about the ocean, creating opportunities for science enthusiasts to discover more interesting things about the sea. Remember to check the schedule before coming so you don’t miss out on interesting events!

Address: Villa comunale, 80121 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00. Closed on Monday

Naples Aquarium – Ocean World in the Heart of the City

Right behind the Darwin-Dohrn Museum, the Naples Aquarium will be an ideal destination for the whole family. Although it is not a modern aquarium with advanced technology, this place offers a unique experience that is rarely found anywhere else because the aquarium has been operating for more than 150 years. The water tanks reflect a magical blue light, vividly recreating the Mediterranean marine ecosystem.

Coral reefs, Posidonia seagrass forests and schools of native fish create a colorful natural picture. In particular, the area dedicated to octopuses will surprise you with the incredible intelligence of this creature. In addition to admiring the rich marine species, don’t forget to visit the moray eel tank, which recreates the ancient Roman eel farming technique.

Address: Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli NA, Italy
Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00. Closed on Mondays

Frequently Asked Questions About Naples Travel

What are the popular means of transportation when visiting Naples?

In Naples, visitors often use the metro, buses, taxis and trams to move around the city. Walking is also a popular choice in the central area. In addition, Vespa and car rental services are also very convenient if you want to explore the suburbs.

What tours are available from Naples to Pompeii and Amalfi?

There are many tours departing from Naples that take visitors to Pompeii, Amalfi and Positano. Popular options include guided bus or train tours, or boat tours that explore the Amalfi Coast.

Where are the popular shopping spots in Naples?

Some of the prominent shopping areas in Naples include Via Toledo – a bustling shopping street, Galleria Umberto I – a shopping center with impressive architecture, and Pignasecca Market – an ideal place to buy local specialties.

What should you keep in mind when traveling to Naples for the first time?

Tourists should be careful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. The transportation system can be complicated, so check the train and bus schedules in advance. In addition, Naples has a rich culinary culture, so try local dishes for a complete experience.

What are the typical dishes to try when coming to Naples?

Pizza Margherita – the culinary symbol of the city, Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clam sauce), Sfogliatella (pastry filled with ricotta cheese) and Limoncello wine are dishes that cannot be missed when coming to Naples.

Naples is an ideal stop for a journey to explore Italy with ancient buildings and impressive landscapes. If you love exploring, take the time to visit Pompeii or Herculaneum. Don’t forget to enjoy the famous Napoli pizza or stroll around the bustling markets to feel the local life.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Naples you can refer to

Read more Italy travel guide here and Naples here.