Places to visit in Naples
Attractions to visit in Naples
If you are planning a vacation in Italy, remember to include the numerous places to visit in Naples in your travel itinerary. From stunning natural attractions to historical landmarks and mouth watering cuisine, Naples has something to offer all kinds of tourists. Renowned for its historic city centre, which is the largest in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Naples is also the birthplace of the iconic pizza.For those who are looking to explore the history of Naples and Italy, the places to see in Naples include Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii, Catacombe di San Gennaro and Catacombe di San Gaudioso, and the Cimitero Delle Fontanelle. Witness the majestic castles of the city like Castel Nuovo, Castel Sant’Elmo, and Ovo Castle as you admire their impregnable architecture and panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Art and history find expression at the numerous mediaeval and contemporary art galleries and museums of Naples, which include Galleria Umberto I, Museo Cappella Sansevero, and the Naples National Archaeological Museum.
Admire the cultural and religious traditions of the Italian city at its churches, cathedrals and monasteries, which are among the most popular places to visit in Naples. Explore the Duomo di Napoli, Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara e Chiostro di Santa Chiara, Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo and Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore among numerous others in the city.
From beautiful piazzas and ancient streets to pizzerias serving delicious pizzas and shopping spots filled with spirited locals and tourists, Naples welcomes tourists with its beauty and liveliness. Explore the iconic Italian city with your loved ones as you relax at its beaches and play around at the vast sea.
Here is the list of the best places to visit in Naples:
The Complesso Monumentale di Sant'Anna dei Lombardi, also known as Santa Maria di Monteoliveto, is a gem of Renaissance architecture and art nestled in the heart of Naples, Italy. This historical and religious complex is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces that capture the essence of Neapolitan culture and history.
Dating back to the 15th century, the church was originally constructed for the Olivetan monks. It boasts a stunning Renaissance facade, characterized by harmonious proportions and intricate details that reflect the architectural trends of the period. As you step inside, the serene ambiance and the exquisite beauty of the interior instantly captivate visitors.
The interior of the church is a showcase of Renaissance artistry. The vaulted ceilings are adorned with frescoes, while the walls and chapels feature works by some of the most renowned artists of the time. Among these masterpieces is the "Pietà" by Giovanni da Nola, an emotional and finely detailed sculpture that beautifully conveys the sorrow of Mary holding the body of Christ. The church's sacristy, known as the "Sagrestia Vecchia," is particularly notable for its intricate woodwork and magnificent ceiling frescoes by Vasari.
The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum in Italy is a captivating destination that offers a remarkable glimpse into the past. Located near Naples, this ancient Roman town was preserved under a thick layer of volcanic ash and mud from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Pompeii, Herculaneum offers an intimate and well-preserved experience for visitors interested in exploring ancient history.
Unlike Pompeii, where many structures were leveled by the eruption, Herculaneum was buried under a deep layer of volcanic material that protected its buildings, frescoes, and artifacts. This exceptional preservation allows visitors to explore the town as it once was, with multistory houses, intricate mosaics, and vibrant frescoes still intact. The town's layout, with its narrow streets and well-preserved public and private buildings, offers a vivid impression of daily life in ancient Rome.
Piazzetta di Capri, often referred to as the "living room of the world," is the vibrant heart of the island of Capri. Officially named Piazza Umberto I, this small square brims with lively cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists. Set against a backdrop of stunning Mediterranean views, the Piazzetta offers breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding lush landscapes.
Explore one of the most popular historical landmarks of the city, the Naples National Archaeological Museum, on your tour of Naples. Among the exhibits and displays at the Naples National Archaeological Museum are casts of people of Pompeii who tried to save their belongings during the Mount Vesuvius eruption, sculptures, computer animations, photographs and others.
Enter the underground world of the Catacombe di San Gaudioso, the second most important cemetery of early Christians in Naples. Situated under the Basilica of Santa Maria Della Sanita, the necropolis centres around the final resting place of St Gaudiosus of Naples, and has rare 5th and 6th-century frescoes and mosaics adorning the walls, including the oldest depiction of the Virgin Mary in Campania.
Get an exclusive sneak peek into the lives of the mediaeval Bourbon monarchs as you walk through the lavish rooms of the Royal Palace of Naples, one of the most popular places to see in Naples. Located in Piazza del Plebiscito, the palace and its grounds today house the Teatro di San Carlo, Teatrino di Corte, the National Library of Naples, and a public museum.
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Witness the magic of Neapolitan art as you explore one of Italy’s largest art museums, Museo di Real Bosco di Capodimonte, which also ranks among the top tourist places in Naples Italy. Spot several iconic Italian artworks, ancient Roman sculptures, antique furniture, and porcelain collection among other artefacts during the museum tour. One can also see the works of prominent Italian artists like Raphael and Caravaggio here.
Visit one of the world’s most famous volcanoes, Mount Vesuvius, during your trip to Naples. Renowned as the most dangerous active volcano on the European mainland, Mount Vesuvius is popular for its AD 79 eruption that destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Witness the massive crater of the volcano and stroll through the well-preserved ancient cities as you listen to fascinating stories.
Witness the most beautiful church and one of the most iconic places to see in Naples as you visit the Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo. While the exterior stone façade dates back to the fifteenth century, the sixteenth-century interiors reflect the peak of Baroque and Neapolitan Renaissance art. Admire the stunning gardens, beautiful frescoes, and intricately adorned rooms created by the finest Neapolitan artists.
Witness one of Caravaggio’s most iconic works, the Seven Works of Mercy, as you visit the Pio Monte Della Misericordia, one of the top places to visit in Naples. Explore the seventeenth-century structure that today is renowned as one of the city’s best art museums. Be awed by the works of prominent seventeenth-century and contemporary Neapolitan artists as you walk through the museum galleries
Witness the magnificence of mediaeval Neapolitan and Italian art and architecture at Certosa di San Martino, which is among the best places to see in Naples. Originally constructed as a Carthusian monastery, the complex today functions as an art and history museum showcasing the finest artworks of prominent Italian artists from the fifteenth century onwards, like Giovanni Antonio Dosio and Cosimo Fanzago
Piazza del Plebiscito ranks among the best places to see in Naples and is home to numerous important landmarks of the city. Take a stroll in the magnificent square with your loved ones as you explore the Basilica di San Francesco di Paola, the Royal Palace, and the National Library of Naples. San Carlo Theatre and Galleria Umberto I are also worth a visit
Visit the legendary Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara, known as one of the best tourist places in Naples Italy. A mediaeval religious complex, the attraction houses the Basilica of Santa Chiara, 72 octagonal columns with intricately-designed tiles, tombs of Bourbon monarchs, monastic complexes for nuns, and an archaeological museum. Destroyed in World War II, the complex was rebuilt in the original 14th-century style.
A unique experience awaits you at Cimitero delle Fontanelle, one of the best places to see in Naples. Explore an ancient ossuary filled with thousands of human skulls and bones at this underground cemetery in the city. Dating back to the sixteenth century, this mystery-filled adventure has fascinating stories hidden away, which visitors can listen to on guided tours of the Cimitero delle Fontanelle.
Indulge in the age-old cultural traditions of Naples as you visit Catacombe di San Gennaro, one of the most intriguing places to visit in Naples. The underground burial chambers have more than 3,000 graves, with the oldest dating back to the 2nd century CE. Visit one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites of Christianity, the Tomb of San Gennaro, at Catacombe di San Gennaro.
Explore one of the world’s most popular art museums at Museo Cappella Sansevero, which ranks among the top places to visit in Naples. Constructed as a chapel and later turned into a family mausoleum, the structure is adorned with the finest artworks, frescoes, and sculptures of the eighteenth century. Admire the Veiled Christ, Anatomical Machines, the High Altar and much more at this art haven.
Explore one of Italy’s most popular shopping arcades as you visit Galleria Umberto I. Situated at a walking distance from the Piazza del Plebiscito and right opposite the San Carlo Theatre, the gallery is a hub of shopping and dining for tourists. Admire the beautiful architecture, sculptures, and murals as you unwind and escape from the city’s bustle at the Galleria Umberto I.
Explore the Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara and admire one of its most enthralling features, the Chiostro di Santa Chiara. Admire the artistic culture of Naples as you witness the 72 cloisters, or chiostro, which give visitors a glimpse into eighteenth-century Baroque art. The columns are intricately adorned with colourful ceramic tiles that depict scenes from rural life like hunting sessions and peasant existence.
Duomo di Napoli, the oldest and main church of Naples, showcases a blend of architectural styles ranging from Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque and Neo-Gothic. The cathedral is a wonderful landmark of the city’s artistic, historical and cultural heritage. Spot artworks by major Italian Renaissance and Baroque artists as you witness the Miracle of the Blood and Basilica of St. Restituta
Experience a glimpse into mediaeval Naples at Castel Nuovo, one of the popular places to see in Naples. As an icon of the Medieval Renaissance, the castle was a fortress residence that today serves as a historical landmark. Explore the fortifications, towers, Triumphal Arch, Palatine Chapel and Hall of the Barons
Witness the stunning beauty of Naples from the Castel Sant’Elmo, which offers magnificent panoramic views of the Neapolitan countryside, islands, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento peninsula, and the sprawling city. Discover the magic of 20th-century Neapolitan art as you explore the Museo del Novecento within the fourteenth-century fortress. Visitors can enjoy a fun cable car ride or a hiking journey during their Castel Sant’Elmo tour.
Explore one of the most beautiful historical landmarks of the city as you visit the Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore in Naples. Adorned with intricate gold work, original 14th-century frescoes, sculptures, massive columns, and a beautiful altar, San Domenico Maggiore is one of the most interesting churches in Naples.
Explore the oldest surviving fortification of Naples, the Ovo Castle, which is known for the legend of an egg hidden underneath the castle that protects the city. The exteriors of the castle are always open to visitors, while the interiors are open only for special events. Visitors can also attend the various exhibitions and events held in the castle.
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What are the best places to visit in Naples?
Piazza del Plebiscito – One of the most popular places to see in Naples is the Piazza del Plebiscito. Take a stroll in the magnificent square as you explore the Basilica di San Francesco di Paola, the Royal Palace, the National Library of Naples, the San Carlo Theatre and Galleria Umberto I.
Castel Nuovo - As an icon of the Medieval Renaissance, the castle was a fortress residence that today serves as a historical landmark. Explore the fortifications, towers, Triumphal Arch, Palatine Chapel, mediaeval prisons, and a civic museum at Castel Nuovo.
Duomo di Napoli - The oldest and main church of Naples, Duomo di Napoli is a wonderful landmark of the city’s artistic, historical and cultural heritage where visitors can see works of major Italian Renaissance and Baroque artists.
Chiostro di Santa Chiara - Admire Neapolitan art as you witness the 72 cloisters of Chiostro di Santa Chiara, masterpieces of eighteenth-century Baroque art. The columns are intricately adorned with colourful ceramic tiles that depict scenes from rural life like hunting sessions and peasant existence.
Galleria Umberto - One of Italy’s most popular shopping arcades, Galleria Umberto I is a hub of shopping and dining for tourists. Admire the beautiful architecture, sculptures, and murals as you unwind and escape from the city’s bustle here.
