piazza del Plebiscito travel guide

Piazza del Plebiscito, a sprawling public square in Naples, Italy, carries a rich historical significance. It was initially conceived in the early 19th century during the reign of Napoleon's brother-in-law, Joachim Murat.

However, the square didn't take its current form until the reign of the Bourbon kings, particularly Ferdinand II, who commissioned the construction of the two equestrian statues that stand guard over the square.

The square also served as a key location during the Risorgimento, the period of the 19th century marking the unification of Italy. Its name, 'Plebiscito', commemorates the 1860 plebiscite that resulted in Naples joining the Kingdom of Italy.

Today, Piazza del Plebiscito is notable for its grand architecture, including the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, both of which flank the square, providing a visual treat to visitors and encapsulating the square's historical essence.

Piazza del Plebiscito, one of Naples' most iconic public squares, is notable for its sheer size, stretching 25,000 square meters. It is encircled by a sweeping semi-circle of colonnades, a distinctive architectural feature unique to this square. This design was influenced by the neoclassical style of the 19th century, as can be seen in the Royal Palace and Church of St. Francis of Paola. The church, inspired by Rome's Pantheon, boasts a prominent portico resting on six columns and two Ionic pillars, creating an imposing facade. Furthermore, the square is devoid of the typical central monument, instead, it features two equestrian statues of the Bourbon kings, Charles III and Ferdinand I. This absence of a central monument gives the Piazza an open, spacious feel, and it often hosts concerts and public events. Lastly, it's worth noting the 'Plebiscito challenge', a popular local game that involves walking blindfolded between the two horses of the royal statues, a task that proves surprisingly difficult due to the subtle incline of the square.

Located in the dynamic Naples, the popular piazza del Plebiscito is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Naples or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Italy.

Naples is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Naples offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Naples and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Ovo Castle, Castel Nuovo, Naples National Archaeological Museum, Museo Cappella Sansevero, and Castel Sant'Elmo.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Naples has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Naples, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Italy!

Piazza del Plebiscito is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Naples, Italy. If you're flying in, Naples International Airport is approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) away from Naples. From there, you can easily reach piazza del Plebiscito by taxi or shuttle.

You can also rent a car and drive to piazza del Plebiscito, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Piazza del Plebiscito, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at piazza del Plebiscito!

The best time to explore Piazza del Plebiscito is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer mild weather conditions, ideal for outdoor activities and strolling around the piazza. The summer months (July and August) are warm and can be crowded with tourists, while the winter months are quieter but colder. If you want to experience a unique cultural event, visit in late February or early March to catch the vibrant, city-wide Carnival celebrations. However, the Piazza del Plebiscito is a hub of activity all year round, with concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events regularly taking place. Early mornings and late evenings are typically less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, the Piazza del Plebiscito is sure to captivate with its grandeur and lively atmosphere.

To truly enjoy your visit to piazza del Plebiscito, joining a tour that features this popular square in Naples is highly recommended. As one of Italy's most iconic attractions, piazza del Plebiscito draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to piazza del Plebiscito starting at just 20 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of piazza del Plebiscito and other top attractions in Naples than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Naples include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in piazza del Plebiscito's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into piazza del Plebiscito and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind square in Italy.

With a rental car, discovering the popular piazza del Plebiscito and Italy's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Rental car companies in Italy cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Naples and beyond.

Conveniently explore piazza del Plebiscito and plenty more captivating attractions in Naples by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to piazza del Plebiscito and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Naples has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting piazza del Plebiscito below.

Aside from piazza del Plebiscito, Naples is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Naples, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Ovo Castle, Castel Nuovo, and Naples National Archaeological Museum.

Ovo Castle is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Naples, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Ovo Castle is Via Eldorado, 3, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy.

Another appreciated attraction in Naples is Castel Nuovo. Like Ovo Castle, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 28,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Via Vittorio Emanuele III, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy.

Naples National Archaeological Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Naples. This museum and top attraction in Naples has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 27,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Naples below.