Discover the wonders of Naples: tourist itineraries not to be missed!

Naples, an authentic gem of southern Italy, is a city that fascinates and enchants with its rich cultural heritage, its thousand-year history and its vibrant daily life. Famous for its delicious cuisine, artistic traditions and the warmth of its inhabitants, Naples is an unmissable destination for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a unique tourist experience. With its lively streets, bright colors and intoxicating scents, the city offers a mosaic of attractions that tell stories of bygone eras and overwhelming modernity.

In this article, we will guide you through an exciting journey to discover the wonders of Naples, presenting ten tourist itineraries not to be missed. Starting from the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we will immerse ourselves in the picturesque alleys and lively squares, exploring some of the city’s most iconic monuments, such as the Maschio Angioino and the Royal Palace. We will cross the artistic wonders of the National Archaeological Museum and get lost in the beauty of the Sansevero Chapel, famous for its Veiled Christ.

But Naples is not just history and art; it is also a place where tradition and modernity intertwine, as demonstrated by the lively district of Spaccanapoli and the suggestive Castel dell’Ovo overlooking the sea. We will also add a panoramic view from the Posillipo hill and an unmissable excursion to Vesuvius and the Pompeii ruins, which will lead us to relive the past in an extraordinary way. Get ready to discover a city full of wonders, where every corner hides a new adventure!

Historical Center of Naples

Description

The Historic Center of Naples is one of the oldest and most fascinating neighborhoods in the city. With its narrow, winding streets, historic buildings, baroque churches and lively squares, this neighborhood represents the beating heart of Neapolitan life. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, the Historic Center of Naples is a true open-air work of art.

What to see

Visiting the historic center of Naples you cannot miss the famous Via San Gregorio Armeno, with its workshops of artisans who create handcrafted nativity scenes, the Cathedral of Naples with the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, the monumental complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore and the suggestive Cloister of Santa Chiara. Among the streets of the center you can also taste the real Neapolitan pizza and the typical desserts of the Neapolitan tradition.

Recommended activities

A nice walk in the historic center of Naples will allow you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this city. You can also book a guided tour to discover all the secrets and curiosities of this neighborhood, or take part in a guided tour of the city's underground, which will take you to discover ancient cisterns and underground tunnels.

In short, the Historic Center of Naples is an essential stop for those visiting the city and represents the ideal starting point for exploring all the wonders that Naples has to offer.

Il Maschio Angioino

Description

The Maschio Angioino, also known as Castel Nuovo, is one of the historical symbols of Naples. Located in the heart of the city, near the port, the castle dates back to the 13th century and was originally built at the behest of Charles I of Anjou. The building has an imposing structure with towers and battlements, which give it a majestic and imposing appearance.

History

The Maschio Angioino played a significant role in the history of Naples, having been the residence of the Angevin rulers and then of the Aragonese. Over the centuries, the castle has been the scene of numerous historical and political events, including the coronation of Alfonso V of Aragon as King of Naples in 1442.

Visit

Currently, the Maschio Angioino is open to the public as a museum and venue for exhibitions and cultural events. Visitors can explore the various rooms of the castle, including the Hall of the Barons, with Renaissance frescoes, and the Hall of Angevin, with period furnishings and objects. From the terrace of the castle you can also enjoy a splendid view of the city and the Gulf of Naples.

To visit the Maschio Angioino it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist periods. During the visit, it is possible to take part in guided tours to discover the history and curiosities linked to the castle and its importance in the history of Naples.

Piazza del Plebiscito and Palazzo Reale

Plaza del Plebiscito

The Piazza del Plebiscito is one of the largest squares in Europe and is located in the heart of Naples. Surrounded by important historic buildings, such as the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola and Palazzo Salerno, the square is a meeting place and cultural and political events. With its imposing colonnades and sea views, it represents an iconic place in the city.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Naples is one of the most important royal residences in Italy. Built in the 17th century, it was the residence of the Bourbon rulers and represents a superb example of Baroque architecture. Inside the palace it is possible to visit the sumptuous reception rooms, decorated with frescoes and period furnishings, which tell the story of the Neapolitan monarchy. Furthermore, the palace houses the National Library and the San Carlo Theatre, one of the oldest opera houses in the world still in operation.

The visit to Piazza del Plebiscito and Palazzo Reale represents an immersion in the history and culture of Naples, allowing visitors to discover the era of the Bourbon rulers and admire the art and architecture that characterize this fascinating city. The combination of grandeur and beauty of these places makes the experience unforgettable for anyone who decides to explore the historic center of Naples.

The National Archaeological Museum

Description

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world. Founded in 1750, the museum houses a vast collection of finds coming mainly from the archaeological sites of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Stabiae. Among the most famous works kept inside the museum are the statues and mosaics from the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as the famous collection of objects from the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum.

Main works

One of the most famous works of the National Archaeological Museum is the statue of the Farnese Bull, a masterpiece of Roman art found in Rome in the 16th century. Other works of great value are the mosaic of the Gladiator Battalion, the statue of Artemis of Ephesus and the statue of Farnese Hercules.

Visit

The museum is divided into different thematic sections that allow visitors to completely immerse themselves in the art and history of ancient Rome. Among the most interesting sections are the one dedicated to daily life in Pompeii and Herculaneum, that of Roman portraits and that of works from the cities buried by the eruption of Vesuvius.

To visit the National Archaeological Museum it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist periods. The museum is open every day except Tuesday, with opening hours that vary depending on the season.

The Sansevero Chapel and the Veiled Christ

Description

The Sansevero Chapel is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places in Naples. Located in the heart of the historic center, this small baroque church dating back to the 18th century is famous throughout the world for its incredible artistic beauty and for its most famous masterpiece: the Veiled Christ.

The Veiled Christ

The Veiled Christ is a white marble sculpture created by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753. This work of art is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Baroque sculpture and has aroused the admiration of generations of visitors for its extraordinary beauty and realism . The peculiarity of this sculpture lies in the fact that the veil that covers the body of Christ is so realistic that it seems real, creating a highly suggestive and mysterious effect.

Visit to the Sansevero Chapel

The Sansevero Chapel is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to admire not only the Veiled Christ, but also other works of art of great value, including the statues of the Prisoners by Antonio Corradini and the evocative Pietà by Francesco Queirolo. During the visit it is possible to immerse yourself in the magical and mystical atmosphere of this unique place, rich in symbolism and mystery.

For anyone who is in Naples, the Sansevero Chapel is an essential stop to discover the most fascinating and enigmatic side of the city, through the works of art of one of the greatest geniuses of Neapolitan Baroque.

Underground Naples

Description

Napoli Sotterranea is a complex of underground tunnels that extends for over 80 kilometers under the heart of the city of Naples. This underground labyrinth was carved into the volcanic tuff that forms the base of the city and dates back to Greco-Roman times. The tunnels have been used over the centuries for various purposes, including as cisterns to collect rainwater, shelters during World War II and even as landfills.

What to see

Guided tours of Naples Underground offer visitors the opportunity to explore a little-known part of Naples' history. During the tour, you can admire Roman cisterns, the remains of an underground Roman theater, an ancient furnace and much more. Furthermore, the underground complex is known for its legends and mysteries, which are told during the visit.

One of the most evocative attractions of Naples Underground is the "Bacile", a Roman cistern which extends for approximately 1000 square meters and which houses an underground lake. This evocative place has been used as a set for numerous films and TV series.

Practical information

To visit Underground Naples it is advisable to book in advance, as places for guided tours are limited. The visits take place in groups and are led by expert guides who provide interesting information on the history and architecture of the underground complex.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the temperature in the underground tunnels is constantly cool. Furthermore, it is advisable to bring a flashlight, as some parts of the route are poorly lit.

An excursion to Underground Naples is a unique experience that allows visitors to discover a hidden side of the city and immerse themselves in its fascinating underground history.

The Spaccanapoli neighborhood

Description

The Spaccanapoli district is one of the oldest and most evocative areas of the historic center of Naples. Its name derives from the fact that the main street, Via Benedetto Croce, seems to "split" the neighborhood in two, dividing the ancient streets and alleys that characterize it. This neighborhood is rich in history, art and culture, and is a real labyrinth of narrow and evocative alleys.

What to see

Visiting the Spaccanapoli district you will be able to admire numerous monuments and historic churches, such as the Church of Santa Chiara with its majolica cloister, the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore with the remains of ancient Neapolis underneath, and the Church of Gesù Nuovo with the its baroque facade. Furthermore, you can walk among the artisan shops, traditional markets and typical Neapolitan taverns, completely immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the city.

What to do

To fully experience the Spaccanapoli neighborhood, I recommend you take part in one of the many guided tours that will allow you to discover the secrets and traditions of this part of Naples. You will also be able to taste the delicacies of Neapolitan cuisine, such as fried pizza, taralli and Sfogliatella, at the numerous trattorias and pizzerias in the area. Furthermore, don't miss the opportunity to buy some typical souvenirs, such as Vietri ceramics and handcrafted nativity scenes, to take a piece of Naples with you.

Castel dell'Ovo and Borgo Marinari

The Castel dell'Ovo

The Castel dell'Ovo is one of the most iconic symbols of Naples, located on an islet in the heart of the Gulf of Naples. This impressive castle dates back to the Roman period and has a history full of legends and mysteries. According to legend, the poet Virgil hid a magical egg in the foundations of the castle, declaring that if the egg broke, the castle would collapse and with it the city itself.

Castel dell'Ovo offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Naples and the sea, and is a perfect place for a relaxing walk or to admire the sunset over the Gulf of Naples.

The Borgo Marinari

Borgo Marinari is a charming fishing village located at the foot of Castel dell'Ovo. This picturesque neighborhood is characterized by narrow alleys, colorful houses and fresh seafood restaurants. It is the ideal place to savor the true Neapolitan atmosphere and enjoy delicious fish dishes with a view of the sea.

Borgo Marinari is also the starting point for numerous boat excursions to discover the coast of Naples and the surrounding islands, such as Capri and Ischia. It is possible to rent a boat or join an organized tour to explore the natural beauty of the area and enjoy an unforgettable day at sea.

The Posillipo hill and the Virgiliano Park

The hill of Posillipo

The Posillipo hill is one of the most evocative places in Naples, located in the western area of ​​the city. With its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius, it is a perfect place for those who love nature and want to enjoy a spectacular view. The hill is characterized by lush gardens and stately villas, which give an atmosphere of tranquility and beauty.

From Posillipo you can admire splendid views of the bay of Naples, the Castelli Romani and the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. It is the ideal place for those who want to take a relaxing walk or a picnic immersed in nature, away from the chaos of the city.

The Virgiliano Park is one of the most famous parks in Naples, located on the Posillipo hill. From the park you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the sea, and it is the perfect place to take a walk, have a picnic or simply relax outdoors.

The park is dedicated to the Latin poet Virgil, who according to legend had his tomb in this area. The Virgiliano Park is an oasis of peace and tranquility, far from the bustle of the city, and offers a unique spectacle at sunset, when the sun dives into the sea and colors the sky with pink and orange shades.