Top 14 Best Things To Do in Naples

Unlock the 14 best things to do in Naples and enjoy a city bursting with energy, history, and charm! Wander the lively Spaccanapoli street, marvel at the majestic Naples Cathedral, and treat yourself to a slice of Neapolitan pizza. Discover the magic of Naples with this guide! 

This city of vibrant contrasts invites you to uncover its rich offerings through an unparalleled selection of tours in Naples. In this guide, we have carefully handpicked some of the best activities that promise to unveil the city's essence in unforgettable ways.

Make every precious moment in Naples count! With expertly designed Naples itineraries, your journey will be seamless and enriching. After a day of exploration, retreat to the best accommodations in Naples and let your chosen haven become a cozy base for uncovering all the treasures this enchanting city holds.

Let us guide you to every hidden gem and unforgettable moment as we dive into the magic that makes Naples a city like no other. Read on to discover the ultimate list of top experiences and must-see attractions that will make your visit to Naples truly extraordinary!

14. Visit Ovo Castle (Castel dell'Ovo)

Uncover the mysteries of Castel dell’Ovo on a private walking tour that includes a stop at the oldest surviving fortification in Naples. Perched proudly over the Gulf of Naples, “Egg Castle” brims with legends of daring knights, captive royalty, and secret passageways.

According to myth, the Roman poet Virgil hid a magical egg in the castle’s foundations, warning that Naples would face calamity if the egg ever broke! This legend adds an intriguing layer to the castle's history, as the egg was eventually found, leading to a series of disasters for the city.

You can find out more stories like this one and cover more grounds while exploring Naples on a Vespa tour with an audio guide. It’s a fun and memorable way to take in the city’s history and stunning views, and surely one of the best things to do in Naples!

13. Explore Naples’ Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli)

Join a tour of Naples’ Spanish Quarter, the city's most spirited neighborhood. Once known for its rough reputation, this area has transformed into a popular destination. It has narrow streets, colorful laundry draped over balconies, and bustling taverns.

Built in the 16th century to house Spanish soldiers, the area covers the neighborhoods of San Ferdinando, Avvocata, and Montecalvario. Today, you can admire the colorful street art of the Spanish Quarters on a private tour and learn about its traditions. Another option is to taste your way on a food tour of the Spanish Quarter.

Every step here reveals something new: street murals, friendly locals, and the irresistible aroma of espresso. Exploring the Spanish Quarter is one of the best things to do in Naples, letting you experience the city’s true heartbeat, one hidden gem at a time.

12. Tour Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)

Among Naples' cultural experiences, exploring Castel Nuovo is a good choice. Known locally as Maschio Angioino, this historic fortress was commissioned by King Charles I in the 13th century. Its impressive architecture showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring striking structures that dominate the skyline.

With its five massive towers and grand marble archway, visiting Castel Nuovo is one of the top things to do in Naples. Step inside to see the beautiful Cappella Palatina with frescoes by Giotto. Don’t miss the Armory Hall, where you can catch a glimpse of ancient Roman ruins beneath a glass floor.

If Castel Nuovo inspires you to learn more about the city, why not take a guided history tour through Naples and the Bourbon Tunnel? It’s a great way to soak in the city’s rich stories and timeless charm.

11. Visit the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli)

Take a guided tour of Naples's city center and discover the beauty of Naples Cathedral, a must-see attraction that showcases stunning artworks and intricate architectural details. Marvel at its impressive structure and learn about the rich history behind this iconic landmark.

Known locally as Duomo di Napoli or Cathedral of Saint Januarius, the cathedral’s Neo-Gothic facade may catch your eye, but the true magic is inside. Admire over 320 feet (98 meters) of breathtaking frescoes, intricate bronze railings, and stunning altars. 

Exploring the cathedral is not only inspiring but also one of the most fun things to do in Naples for those who love history and culture. This fascinating attraction offers an experience you won’t forget—a chance to connect with the soul of the city.

10. Admire Art at Museo Cappella Sansevero

If you’re up for art experiences in Naples, then step into the city’s artistic treasures at Museo Cappella Sansevero, where the remarkable Veiled Christ awaits. Created by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753, this lifelike sculpture rests within a chapel adorned with elegant 18th-century architecture.

Downstairs, the crypt holds the unique Anatomical Machines exhibit. This fascinating, if slightly eerie, display features preserved skeletons with exposed artery and vein systems, believed to date back to 1763.

To fully appreciate the museum and its surroundings, consider visiting Museo Cappella Sansevero on a guided tour of Naples’ historical center.  With its captivating art and unusual displays, a visit here is one of the best things to do in Naples. 

9. Stroll Through the Royal Palace of Naples

The city's top things-to-do list wouldn’t be complete without walking tours in Naples. The Royal Palace, once home to kings and queens, is a highlight and undoubtedly a must-see in Naples. Built in 1600 for the Bourbon Kings, it now houses the grand Teatro di San Carlo and the elegant Teatrino di Corte.

Inside, you’ll step into the world of Naples’ nobility, exploring opulent rooms steeped in history and tales of ghostly sightings. Legends of Father Rocco and Maria Carolina di Borbone make it an intriguing stop for those who seek experiences that explore Naples’ haunted past and hidden mysteries.

Visiting the Royal Palace of Naples is a rare opportunity to view the city's history through the lens of its royal legacy. It’s an experience that brings to life the luxury and craftsmanship that once defined the city, preserved remarkably well through the centuries.

8. Discover Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea)

A tour of Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea) is one of the best things to do in Naples, taking you deep into the city’s old foundation. Visitors will descend 131 feet (40 meters) below, exploring ancient tunnels and cisterns that reveal layers of the city's history.

Kept alive by the Naples Underground Association with no outside funding, this hidden world is packed with surprises. Picture Greek-Roman aqueducts alongside World War II bomb shelters—each one an unexpected feat of history! 

Spanning an epic 2,400 years, this journey dives into the hidden heart of Naples, where stories are etched into every stone. Are you ready to step into Naples’ past and uncover these ancient mysteries?

7. Take a Boat Tour From Naples to Capri

Hop on an exclusive Capri boat trip from Naples, and get ready to zip through the blue waters toward one of Italy’s most stunning islands! The journey starts with thrilling views of Naples fading behind you while Capri’s famous limestone cliffs and glimmering waves lie just ahead.

Visiting Capri is one of the top things to do in Naples, and it’s easy to see why. With chic shops and hidden grottoes, the island is like a dream come true. Dive into crystal-clear waters, snap pics of the dazzling views, or take a stroll in the lush hillside gardens—Capri’s got it all.

The ride back to Naples is pure bliss. Stretch out on the deck, feel the warm sun on your skin, and watch as the sky blushes over the Bay of Naples. It’s the perfect wrap-up to a day that feels straight out of a fairytale!

6. Experience the Amalfi Coast on a Day Trip From Naples

Take a day trip from Naples to explore the Amalfi Coast’s rugged cliffs, charming villages, and endless sea views—a true Italian masterpiece! Just a short trip away, spending the day at this UNESCO site is considered one of the best things to do in Naples.

Wander through Positano’s bustling alleys, admire Amalfi’s historical treasures, and soak in Ravello’s panoramic gardens. Each town offers cozy cafes, local artisan shops, and the perfect spot to pause and enjoy it all.

For a full day of discovery, a guided tour provides a relaxed way to explore the coast’s highlights. Every stop serves up a slice of the Italian seaside dream, ending with views so unforgettable they’ll stay with you long after you say arrivederci.

5. Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum

Immerse yourself in a two-hour private tour of the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which features ancient treasures from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and beyond! This place is a history lover’s dream, complete with an Egyptian collection that’s second only to Turin’s!

A unique feature of this museum is the Secret Cabinet, a room that holds provocative artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Once heavily censored, it’s now open to adults and showcases the edgy side of ancient art. A visit to this iconic museum is one of the top things to do in Naples. 

4. Wander Naples’ Spaccanapoli Street

Explore Naples' historic Spaccanapoli street that slices through the city! Known as the divider of Naples, this vibrant path is full of life, color, and history at every turn. Walking along this street invites you to experience the lively conversations and tantalizing aromas of Neapolitan culture.

Wander down this ancient road, one of the original decumani that’s been part of Neapolis since 580 B.C., and discover why strolling its path is one of the best things to do in Naples. Along the way, you'll find landmarks like the Santa Chiara complex and the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore.

Every twist reveals a new treasure—a majestic palace, ancient churches, and bursts of street art that pulse with the spirit of Naples. Lined with souvenir shops, bakeries wafting heavenly scents, and lively trattorias, this path serves up the city’s flavors and charm with every step.

3. Ascend Mount Vesuvius

Get up close and personal with the legendary Mount Vesuvius on a half-day trip from Naples. Towering above the city, Mount Vesuvius is not only a sight to behold but also a living part of Italy’s past. It’s famously responsible for Pompeii's destruction in 79 A.D. and the dramatic 1944 eruption that devastated nearby villages.

Climbing Mount Vesuvius is pure adventure! Picture rugged trails, raw volcanic rock, and views that stretch from the Bay of Naples to the islands of Capri and Ischia. Each step takes you closer to the summit of this iconic volcano, where history and nature converge in breathtaking splendor.

Exploring Mount Vesuvius is one of the best things to do in Naples, offering a close encounter with one of the world’s most legendary volcanoes. Feel the power of history, the thrill of geology, and the resilience of a region shaped by fire and time.

2. Learn How To Make Neapolitan Pizza in Naples

A Neapolitan pizza-making class in Naples offers a hands-on way to discover the city's most iconic dish. Neapolitan pizza, crafted with raw tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, is a culinary masterpiece. Characterized by its thin, soft center and baked at high heat for just 90 seconds, this pizza is a chef's kiss.

This pizza tradition goes back centuries, with a flavor perfected by generations and even certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana to uphold its authenticity. Tasting or learning to make Neapolitan pizza is a must-do in Naples. It’s an unforgettable experience at the birthplace of this world-famous dish.

1. Explore the Ruins of Pompeii

Go on a half-day trip from Naples to Pompeii's haunting ruins, frozen in time beneath volcanic ash. As you wander its ancient streets, you’ll discover remnants of Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption in A.D. 79. Discover centuries-old homes, temples, and brothels, offering a captivating glimpse into a world long past.

Pompeii’s history spans centuries, with origins tracing back to the seventh century B.C. under the Campanian Oscans. Over time, it became a Roman colony, bustling with a population of approximately 20,000 before disaster struck.

Exploring Pompeii is among the best things to do in Naples, connecting you to its rich and haunting past. Wandering this UNESCO-listed site, you’ll feel the quiet echoes of an ancient world, hidden yet perfectly preserved.