Things to do in 

Naples

The lively city of Naples capitalizes on the unexpected. Brimming with rich history, artful charm, and the world-renowned Neapolitan cuisine, Naples serves up a sumptuous taste of Italy. As you delve into things to do in Naples, you'll be compelled by a plethora of absorbing attractions, undiscovered marvels, and local scenes awaiting your discovery. Traverse through cobblestone alleys, marvel at majestic historical sights, or savor a slice of pizza where it all originated. Naples goes beyond the usual tourist ventures, inviting travelers to experience its layered vibrancy and the untamed spirit that makes this city alive and compelling.

Explore Naples off the beaten path

Step beyond the famous landmarks and look for alternative things to do, where small studios, neighborhood markets, and coastal overlooks show Naples at an easy, local pace.

Cultural experiences: Get to Porta Nolana early to watch fishmongers slice, weigh, and sing out prices, then grab a quick fried cuoppo for a salty second breakfast. By late afternoon, wander the Spanish Quarters to see the Maradona murals on Via Emanuele de Deo and feel the neighborhood settle in.

Small museums and galleries: Duck into the Museo delle Arti Sanitarie at the Complesso degli Incurabili for curious medical tools and a guided peek into old pharmacies. Casa Morra – Archivio d’Arte Contemporanea hides bold contemporary rooms inside a quiet palazzo; staff are welcoming and happy to chat. For a slice of armor, fabrics, and design, the Museo Civico Gaetano Filangieri stays compact and rarely busy.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Parco Virgiliano in Posillipo is perfect at sunset, with breezy terraces looking toward the islands and the cape. If you want a later glow, stroll the Pontile di Bagnoli at blue hour or pause along Via Petrarca as the city lights come on.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Start at Pignasecca Market in the morning for anchovies, capers, and spices, then snag warm taralli at Leopoldo Infante nearby. On Piazza Dante, Gran Caffè Mexico sells tins of Passalacqua beans that travel well. For something handmade, browse the small Vietri ceramics shops along Via San Biagio dei Librai and pick a bowl you’ll actually use.

Popular neighbourhoods

Digging into the diverse neighbourhoods peppered across Naples is a sure-fire way to soak up the authentic lifeblood of this intriguing Italian city.

Historic Center: Trace the past through the narrow streets lined with elements of Greco-Roman history. Absorb the liveliness of the bustling marketplace of Piazza Mercato, and appreciate the artistic treasure trove housed within Naples Cathedral.

Spaccanapoli: Discover the heart of Old Naples, a narrow straight street flanked by historic churches, traditional pizzerias, and locally-owned boutiques. Take your time wandering through the labyrinth of intersecting alleys.

Quartieri Spagnoli: Get swept up in the vibrant sounds, scents, and bustling activity permeating from this lively district. Marvel at intricate street art, tantalize your taste buds with traditional Neapolitan dishes, and let yourself enjoy the warm, welcoming vibe.

Chiaia: Stroll through this upscale neighbourhood and indulge in its high-end boutiques, chic cafes, sophisticated wine bars, and scenic sea views from Villa Comunale. Experience cosmopolitan Naples at its finest here.

Vomero: Take a funicular ride to this hilly district bustling with stylish shops and impressive Art Nouveau architecture. Delve into Neapolitan culture at Villa Floridiana and take in sweeping city views from the terraces of the majestic San Martino monastery.

Things to do in Naples by season

Spring: Trace Spaccanapoli in soft light, step into cloisters and palazzi during Maggio dei Monumenti, and pause for espresso as street music drifts by. Mild days make gentle climbs to Castel dell’Ovo easy for seniors and families.

Summer: Laze along the Lungomare, ferry out for swims off Procida or Capri, and return for sunset gelato on the promenade. Street food and waterfront tastings during Napoli Pizza Village turn warm nights into casual feasts for couples and groups.

Fall: Cooler air suits day trips to Campanian vineyards and slow museum visits, while September’s Feast of San Gennaro fills the Duomo quarter with processions and devotion. Markets and neighbourhood sagre keep weekends busy without the summer squeeze.

Winter: Christmas in Naples feels handcrafted on Via San Gregorio Armeno, where nativity workshops spill onto the lanes and lights glow across the historic centre. New Year fireworks sparkle over the bay, and cosy trattorie make unhurried evenings easy for families and seniors.

Recurring moments define the year, from Maggio dei Monumenti’s special openings in May to the Feast of San Gennaro each September and the city’s lively New Year on the seafront. Throughout December, nativity fairs, zampogna music and neighbourhood markets carry the season from Advent to Epiphany.