Discover Naples: A walking tour to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Neapolitan city

Naples, the lively capital of Campania, is a city that embodies the essence of Italian culture, history and tradition. With its extraordinary architectural heritage, its lively streets and its delicious cuisine, Naples is an unmissable destination for any tourism lover. In this article, we invite you to discover the beauty of the Neapolitan city through a fascinating walking tour that will take you to explore ten of the most emblematic and evocative places in the city.

Starting from the majestic Cathedral of Naples, dedicated to San Gennaro, our route winds along Via dei Tribunali and the Decumano Maggiore, two historical arteries that tell of centuries of life and traditions. We will then descend into the mysteries of Underground Naples, a labyrinth of tunnels and catacombs that reveal another face of the city. We will not fail to visit Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, with its suggestive Church, and Spaccanapoli, the famous street that cuts the historic center in two.

Our tour will also take us to Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, where the Sansevero Chapel stands, a jewel of Baroque art. We will continue towards the sea, admiring the Castel dell’Ovo and walking along the Lungomare Caracciolo, before arriving at Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace. We cannot forget the Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest active opera house in Europe, and the Galleria Umberto I, a masterpiece of nineteenth-century architecture.

Finally, we will get lost in the Quartieri Spagnoli, a real open-air museum where street art tells stories of life and creativity. Get ready to immerse yourself in a journey that will not only take you to discover the places, but also to experience the pulsating soul of Naples, a city that knows how to surprise and fascinate in every corner.

Naples Cathedral

General information

History and architecture

The treasure of San Gennaro One of the main attractions of the Naples Cathedral is the treasure of San Gennaro, which preserves the relics of the city’s patron saint. The treasure is made up of precious artefacts in gold, silver and precious stones, donated over the centuries by the faithful as a sign of devotion.

The Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro Inside the Cathedral there is the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, where it is possible to admire the rich collections of jewels and sacred vestments linked to the cult of the saint. Among the most famous works is the reliquary bust of San Gennaro, made of silver and decorated with precious stones.

Opening hours and useful information

Visit the Cathedral of Naples to admire the imposing Gothic architecture, the works of art and the treasure of San Gennaro, symbol of the devotion and history of the city.

Via dei Tribunali and the Decumano Maggiore

Via dei Tribunali

Via dei Tribunali is one of the most famous and ancient streets in Naples. Located in the heart of the historic center, this street is rich in history and culture. Along Via dei Tribunali it is possible to admire numerous historic buildings, churches and monuments, which testify to the rich history of the city. Furthermore, the street is famous for its numerous shops, restaurants and pizzerias, where it is possible to taste the typical dishes of the Neapolitan tradition.

Walking along Via dei Tribunali, it is possible to immerse yourself in the unique and authentic atmosphere of Naples, among its narrow streets and picturesque alleys. The street is also known for being the beating heart of Neapolitan nightlife, with its numerous clubs and bars frequented by young people and tourists.

Decumanus Maggiore

The Decumano Maggiore is one of the main streets of ancient Greco-Roman Naples. Along this road, which crosses the entire historic center, there are numerous historic buildings, churches and monuments of great artistic and cultural value. Walking along the Decumano Maggiore, it is possible to admire the typical architecture of the city, with its historic buildings and its baroque churches.

The Decumano Maggiore is also famous for its numerous artisan shops, where it is possible to purchase typical products of the Neapolitan tradition, such as ceramics, wooden objects and souvenirs. Furthermore, along this street there are numerous restaurants, pizzerias and cafes, where it is possible to taste the gastronomic specialties of the city.

Underground Naples

Description

Napoli Sotterranea is a complex of tunnels, cisterns, tunnels and underground cavities that extend for over 80 kilometers under the historic center of Naples. This fascinating underground labyrinth dates back to Greek and Roman times and has been used over the centuries for different purposes, such as refuge during wars, water storage and shelter for epidemics.

Guided Tour

To explore Underground Naples it is advisable to take part in a guided tour, during which you can admire the various underground structures and discover the history and legends linked to this place. During the route you can visit the ancient Roman cisterns, the remains of a Roman theater and other evocative places that tell the centuries-old history of Naples.

Times and Information

Napoli Sotterranea is open to the public every day, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the center directly to check the opening times and book the guided tour. The cost of the ticket varies depending on the type of visit chosen and the duration of the route.

For those who visit Naples, the exploration of Naples Underground is a unique and evocative experience that allows you to discover a hidden side of the city and immerse yourself in its thousand-year history.

Piazza del Gesù Nuovo and the Church of Gesù Nuovo

Piazza del Gesù Nuovo

The Piazza del Gesù Nuovo is one of the most fascinating squares in Naples, located in the heart of the historic center of the city. Characterized by the presence of the monastery and the church of Gesù Nuovo, the square is a true architectural jewel. The name "Gesù Nuovo" derives from the church of the same name which overlooks the square, built in the 16th century in Renaissance style.

The square is surrounded by historic buildings of great artistic value, including Palazzo Pignatelli, Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano and Palazzo Filomarino. The fountain in the center of the square, with the statue of a winged cherub, adds further charm to the place.

The Piazza del Gesù Nuovo is a very lively place, frequented by Neapolitans and tourists for walking, admiring the architecture and enjoying street life. Numerous bars and restaurants characterize the square, offering the opportunity to savor the local cuisine in a suggestive environment.

Church of Gesù Nuovo

The Church of Gesù Nuovo is one of the main places of worship in Naples, known for its richly decorated baroque façade. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with frescoes and stuccos decorating the walls and vaults.

The church also houses important works of art, including paintings by renowned artists such as Luca Giordano and Giovanni Lanfranco. Inside there is also the statue of San Giuseppe Moscati, venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.

The Church of Gesù Nuovo is a place of great spirituality and beauty, which certainly deserves a visit during your stay in Naples. Its central position in the square of the same name makes it easily accessible to all visitors.

Spaccanapoli and the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara

Spaccanapoli

Spaccanapoli is one of the most famous and evocative streets in the historic center of Naples. Its name derives from the fact that it seems to divide the city into two parts, following the route of the ancient Greek and Roman roads. Along Spaccanapoli you can admire numerous historic buildings, churches and monuments that tell the thousand-year history of the city.

Walking along Spaccanapoli you can discover small artisan shops, souvenir shops, traditional cafes and typical restaurants offering specialties of Neapolitan cuisine. It is also possible to visit several churches, including the Church of San Gregorio Armeno, the Church of Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco and the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore.

Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara

The Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara is one of the most fascinating places in Naples. Its church, cloister and convent are a true jewel of Gothic and Baroque art. The church is decorated with splendid frescoes and majolica decorations, while the cloister is famous for the columns decorated with polychrome tiles representing scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.

Within the complex it is also possible to visit the Museum of the Opera di Santa Chiara, which preserves works of art and artefacts from the church and convent. During the year, the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara also hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions that allow visitors to immerse themselves even more in the history and art of Naples.

Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the Chapel Sansevero

San Domenico Maggiore Square

Piazza San Domenico Maggiore is one of the most fascinating squares in Naples, located in the heart of the historic center. Characterized by the presence of the Church of San Domenico Maggiore, dating back to the 13th century, the square is surrounded by historic buildings and rich in history. The square is an ideal place to walk and admire the baroque architecture that surrounds it.

Sansevero Chapel

The Sansevero Chapel is one of the hidden jewels of Naples, a masterpiece of Baroque art. Built in the 18th century, the chapel is famous for the presence of the statue of the "Veiled Christ" by Giuseppe Sanmartino, considered one of the most extraordinary sculptures in the world. In addition to the statue of the Veiled Christ, the chapel houses numerous other works of art, including frescoes, marbles and sculptures.

The visit to the Sansevero Chapel is a unique and evocative experience, which allows visitors to admire extraordinary works of art up close and immerse themselves in the history and culture of Naples. The chapel is a place of great charm and mystery, which absolutely deserves a visit during your stay in Naples.

Castel dell'Ovo and the Lungomare Caracciolo

Castel dell'Ovo

One of the most iconic symbols of Naples is certainly the Castel dell'Ovo, located on an islet in the Gulf of Naples. The castle owes its name to the legend according to which the Latin poet Virgil, during his life, hid a magical egg in the foundation of the castle, thus ensuring its stability. Castel dell'Ovo offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions.

Caracciolo seafront

The Lungomare Caracciolo is one of the most famous streets in Naples, which extends for about 3 kilometers along the sea. This panoramic road offers spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples, with Vesuvius in the background. Along the seafront there are numerous restaurants, bars and cafés where you can taste the famous Neapolitan cuisine and enjoy unforgettable sunsets. During the walk along the Lungomare Caracciolo it is also possible to admire works of urban art and modern sculptures that enrich the city landscape.

Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace

Plaza del Plebiscito

The Piazza del Plebiscito is one of the largest and most majestic squares in Naples, located in the heart of the city. It is surrounded by important historic buildings, including the Royal Palace, the Church of San Francesco di Paola and the Prefecture. The square takes its name from the plebiscite of 1860 which sanctioned the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the Kingdom of Italy. It is a place very popular with tourists and citizens, who go there to walk, admire the architecture and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Naples is one of the main historic buildings in the city and home to the Bourbon royal family. Built in the 17th century, the palace features an impressive Baroque façade and luxurious interior decor. Inside there are numerous richly decorated rooms, such as the Throne Room, the Caryatid Room and the Ball Room. The Royal Palace also houses the National Library of Naples and the Royal Palace Museum, which preserves important works of art and historical furnishings.

The visit to the Royal Palace allows you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Naples, admiring the sumptuous royal rooms and appreciating the works of art that enrich the palace. During the route, it is possible to admire paintings, sculptures, tapestries and antique furniture which testify to the prestige and magnificence of the Bourbon court. The Royal Palace is an unmissable place for those who want to get to know the grandeur and beauty of Neapolitan art and architecture up close.

San Carlo Theater and Umberto I Gallery

San Carlo Theatre

The Teatro di San Carlo is one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Europe, as well as the largest Italian opera house. Located in Piazza del Plebiscito, it was inaugurated in 1737 and has since hosted the greatest operas and ballets in the world. Its extraordinary acoustics and architectural beauty make it a unique and magical place for music and entertainment lovers.

The San Carlo Theater is a true artistic and cultural jewel of Naples, not to be missed during your visit to the city.

Umberto I Gallery

The Galleria Umberto I is a splendid covered shopping arcade located in the heart of Naples, a stone's throw from Piazza del Plebiscito. Built at the end of the 19th century, it is an extraordinary example of neoclassical architecture and an ideal place to go shopping, enjoy a coffee or simply stroll admiring the windows of luxury boutiques.

The Galleria Umberto I is an elegant and fascinating place, perfect for a relaxing break during your visit to Naples.

In summary, the San Carlo Theater and the Umberto I Gallery are two symbolic places of Neapolitan culture and art, which I highly recommend you visit to immerse yourself in the history and unique atmosphere of this wonderful city.