Discover the 10 best activities to do around Naples

Naples, one of the most fascinating cities in Italy, is a true treasure chest of history, culture and natural beauty. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, the Neapolitan city is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape that offers a wide range of unmissable activities for tourists. From the magnificence of the ancient ruins to the breathtaking views of the coast, Naples and its surroundings are an invitation to discover unique treasures and live unforgettable experiences.

In this article, we will guide you through the 10 best things to do around Naples, perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of this region. We will start with the iconic Pompeii, an archaeological site that tells the story of a city buried by Vesuvius, and then continue with the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. We won’t fail to include an excursion to the volcano that dominates the panorama, Vesuvius, and the chance to explore the extraordinary Amalfi Coast, famous for its cliffs overlooking the sea and picturesque villages.

Our journey continues with the wonderful island of Capri, famous for its dream landscapes, and the enchanting islands of Ischia and Procida, where time seems to have stopped. We will also admire the Archaeological Park of Ercolano, another site of great historical value, and we will venture into the Campi Flegrei, an area of ​​extraordinary natural and volcanic beauty. Finally, we cannot forget Sorrento, with its timeless charm, and the famous Path of the Gods, a hiking route that offers unforgettable views.

Get ready to discover a world rich in history, nature and culture that will make your visit to Naples an unforgettable experience!

Exploring the ruins of Pompeii

Description

The ruins of Pompeii are one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and one of the main tourist attractions around Naples. This ancient Roman city was buried under ashes and lapilli during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, thus preserving its streets, buildings, mosaics and frescoes intact.

What to see

A visit to Pompeii will allow you to explore the ruins of ancient houses, temples, shops and theaters, offering you a unique glimpse into daily life in Roman times. You will be able to admire the famous frescoes of the houses, such as those of the Villa dei Misteri, and walk along the cobbled streets of the city.

How to get there

Pompeii is easily reachable from Naples by train or bus. The Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri train station is located right in front of the entrance to the archaeological site. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Naples central station or rent a car for a more independent trip.

Useful tips

To best enjoy your visit to Pompeii, I recommend booking a guided tour to have a greater understanding of the history and importance of the site. Also, bring water, a hat and sunscreen with you, especially in the summer months, when the heat can be very intense.

Palace of Caserta

Description

The Royal Palace of Caserta is one of the most impressive and spectacular buildings of the Baroque period in Italy. Located in Caserta, about 30 km north of Naples, the palace was built in the 18th century at the behest of King Charles III of Bourbon. With its 1200 rooms, the palace is one of the largest royal palaces in the world, even surpassing the Palace of Versailles in France in size.

What to see

The Royal Palace of Caserta is a true masterpiece of architecture and design, with splendid rooms decorated with frescoes and sumptuous furnishings. Among the main attractions of the palace are the Throne Room, the Gallery of Alexander the Great, the Court Theater and the Royal Park, an immense Italian garden designed on three levels with fountains, statues and a suggestive waterfall. The palace was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.

How to get there

The Royal Palace of Caserta is easily reachable from Naples by train or car. By train, you can take the Naples-Caserta line and get off at Caserta station. From there, the palace can be reached on foot in approximately 15-20 minutes. By car, you can take the A1 motorway in the direction of Rome and exit at Caserta Nord. By following the signs for the palace, you can easily reach your destination.

The visit to the Royal Palace of Caserta is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Italian Baroque art. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this extraordinary site during your stay in Naples!

Excursion to Vesuvius

Description:

The excursion to Vesuvius is a unique experience that will allow you to get closer to the most famous active volcano in Italy. Located just 9 km from Naples, Vesuvius is a symbol of the Campania landscape and its history. With an altitude of 1281 meters, Vesuvius offers spectacular views of the Bay of Naples and the Gulf of Sorrento.

What to do:

During the excursion to Vesuvius you will have the opportunity to walk along the paths that lead to the volcano's crater. Along the way you will be able to admire the flora and fauna typical of the area, and enjoy breathtaking views. Once you reach the crater, you will be able to observe the volcanic activity up close and admire the panoramic view of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding cities.

How to get there:

To reach Vesuvius from Naples, you can take a tourist bus that leaves from Naples central station or book an organized tour. If you prefer, you can also rent a car and drive to the car park located at the foot of the volcano. From there, you can continue on foot along the paths that lead to the crater.

What to bring:

For an excursion on Vesuvius we recommend you wear comfortable trekking shoes, clothing suitable for the weather conditions and bring water and food with you. Remember to protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen, and to bring a camera with you to capture the breathtaking views.

In conclusion, an excursion to Vesuvius is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to get close to one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and admire unique landscapes. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this wonderful naturalistic site during your trip to Naples.

Enjoying the Amalfi Coast

Description

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most evocative and fascinating destinations near Naples. Located on the southwestern coast of the Sorrento peninsula, this stunning coastal area is famous for its picturesque landscapes, colorful villages and the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

What to do

Enjoying the Amalfi Coast means exploring its charming villages such as Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, where you can stroll through winding streets, admire the typical houses decorated with colorful tiles and taste the delicious local cuisine. Furthermore, the Coast offers numerous beaches where you can relax and sunbathe, such as Fornillo beach in Positano or Atrani beach in Amalfi.

For nature and hiking lovers, the Amalfi Coast also offers the possibility of following suggestive paths such as the Path of the Gods, a panoramic route that offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding mountains.

Where to sleep

For those looking to spend more time in the area, the Amalfi Coast offers a wide choice of accommodation, from luxury five-star hotels with sea views to welcoming bed and breakfasts run by local families. Furthermore, it is possible to find charming holiday homes and apartments with sea views, ideal for those who want to live a more authentic and immersive experience.

In conclusion, the Amalfi Coast is a destination that enchants and fascinates its visitors with its breathtaking beauty, its thousand-year history and its authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. A place not to be missed during a visit to the surroundings of Naples.

Discover the beauty of Capri

Description

Capri is an island located in the Gulf of Naples, famous for its breathtaking beauty and glamorous atmosphere. With its crystal clear waters, sea caves and spectacular landscapes, Capri is an unmissable destination for those visiting the Naples region.

What to do in Capri

One of the most popular activities on the island of Capri is visiting the Blue Grotto, a sea cave illuminated by an intense blue light that creates a magical atmosphere. You can also take a stroll through the Gardens of Augustus, with breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and cliffs. Don't miss a visit to the historic center of Capri, with its picturesque streets, luxury boutiques and traditional restaurants.

If you love hiking, we recommend taking the funicular to reach Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, from which you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Capri and the surrounding sea. If you prefer to relax on the beach, you can choose between several enchanting beaches, such as Marina Piccola or Marina Grande.

How to get to Capri

To reach Capri from Naples, you can take a ferry or hydrofoil that leaves from the port of Naples. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and will take you directly to the island. Once you arrive in Capri, you can easily move around on foot or by public transport to explore all the wonders of the island.

In short, Capri is an unmissable destination for those visiting the Naples region, with its natural beauty, its fascinating history and its numerous activities to do. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this jewel of the Mediterranean during your trip to Naples!

Visit the islands of Ischia and Procida

Ischia

Ischia is the largest of the islands in the Gulf of Naples and is famous for its thermal springs and its enchanting beaches. During your visit to Ischia, you can relax in the natural spas, take a walk along the seafront and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea.

Ischia is also known for its botanical gardens, such as Giardini Ravino and La Mortella, where you can admire a vast variety of exotic plants and colorful flowers. If you are a nature lover, I recommend taking an excursion to Mount Epomeo, the highest point on the island, from which you can enjoy spectacular views.

Procida is a smaller and less touristy island than Ischia, but no less fascinating. With its colorful houses, hidden beaches and authentic charm, Procida is the ideal place for a peaceful escape away from the crowds. During your visit, be sure to stroll around the picturesque port of Marina Corricella and visit the Castello di Terra Murata, a medieval fortress that dominates the island.

Procida is also famous for its lemon production and delicious local gastronomy. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the island's typical dishes, such as "ox tongue" and "mother-in-law's tongue", two traditional desserts that will win you over with their unique flavour.

Archaeological Park of Herculaneum

Description

The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum is a site of great historical importance located a few kilometers from Naples. This archaeological site preserves the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum, buried under a blanket of mud and ash during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Like Pompeii, Herculaneum offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the daily life of ancient Rome through its streets, houses, mosaics and archaeological finds.

What to see

One of the main attractions of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park is the Villa dei Papiri, a luxurious Roman residence which preserves a rich collection of sculptures, frescoes and ancient manuscripts. Furthermore, it is possible to visit the Roman baths, the Theater and the Casa del Bel Cortile, among the most well-preserved buildings on the site.

Practical advice

To visit the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and water with you, especially during the summer months when the heat can be very intense. Furthermore, it is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues at the entrance.

Timetables and useful information

The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum is open every day, except Tuesdays, from 8.30am to 7.30pm. The cost of the entrance ticket varies depending on the temporary exhibitions in progress and the age of the visitor. It is possible to reach the site both by car and by public transport from Naples and the surrounding cities.

Tour of the Phlegraean Fields

Description

The Campi Flegrei are a vast volcanic area located north-west of Naples, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, thermal springs and archaeological sites. A tour of the Phlegraean Fields is a unique experience that will allow you to explore extinct volcanoes, ancient Roman cities and splendid panoramic views.

What to do

During the Campi Flegrei tour, you will have the opportunity to visit sites such as the Temple of Serapis in Pozzuoli, an ancient Roman temple located near the sea. You can also explore the Solfatara volcano, where you can admire fumaroles, boiling mud pools and a lunar landscape.

Another unmissable stop is Lake Averno, an ancient volcanic crater which according to Greek mythology was the entrance to the underworld. Here you can take a pleasant walk around the lake and enjoy the tranquility of the place.

What to eat

During the Campi Flegrei tour, don't miss the opportunity to taste the famous buffalo mozzarella from Campania, produced in the area. You can also enjoy typical Neapolitan cuisine, such as fried pizza and pasta with clams.

Finally, don't forget to taste the traditional desserts such as Sfogliatella and Babà, which will delight you with their unique flavour.

In short, a tour of the Campi Flegrei is an experience that will allow you to discover the beauty and history of this fascinating region, while delighting in the delicacies of the local cuisine.

Sorrento

Description

Sorrento is a picturesque coastal city located about an hour away from Naples. Known for its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento is a popular tourist destination for anyone wanting to enjoy the Mediterranean climate and relaxed atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

What to see and do

One of the main attractions of Sorrento is its historic center, with its narrow streets and its limoncello and ceramic shops. You can stroll along the seafront, admiring the views of the sea and Vesuvius, and stop in one of the many cafes and restaurants to savor the local cuisine.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Villa Comunale, a beautiful public park with gardens full of exotic plants and a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples. From here, you can also go down to the Marina Grande, Sorrento's main port, where you can take a ferry to Capri or Positano.

If you are interested in local history and culture, visit the Museo Correale di Terranova, which houses a collection of works of art and historical artefacts linked to the history of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

Where to eat

For an authentic dining experience, try fresh fish dishes in the restaurants along the seafront or in one of the many venues in the historic centre. Taste local specialties such as marinara pizza, Sorrento-style pasta and homemade limoncello.

Where to stay

Sorrento offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury five-star hotels with sea views to bed and breakfasts run by local families. Choose a hotel in the historic center to be close to the main tourist attractions or opt for a quieter property in the surrounding hills to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside.

With its combination of history, culture, cuisine and breathtaking landscapes, Sorrento is definitely a destination not to be missed during your visit around Naples.