Top 22 Attractions and Activities in Central Naples, Italy

As gritty and chaotic as it is beautiful and vibrant, Naples, or Napoli in Italian, is a city of many contradictions. Located in Southern Italy, or the Mezzogiorno (land of the midday sun), its bustling seaport sits on the edge of the Bay of Naples, in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed nearby Pompeii.

The celebrated historical center of Naples is brimming with architecturally stunning churches, fascinating museums, elegant palaces, and lively piazzas, all orbiting around a few major streets. The density of tourist attractions means you can easily get in touch with the cultural essence of Naples while still having time to enjoy its fine wines and delicious foods, especially pizza!

Here’s a list of some of our favorite things to do and see in the historical center of Naples, Italy.

Visit the Cathedral of Naples (Duomo)

Address: Via Duomo, 147, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 294764

Website: Visit website

Dedicated to Naples’ patron saint, San Gennaro, this 13th-century Gothic cathedral features Baroque frescoes and artwork, but most importantly holds the saint’s relics, including two vials of his coagulated blood. Be sure to visit the archaeological area under the cathedral, with ruins from ancient Greece to the Middle Ages. Don’t forget to check out the 5th-century baptistery, adorned with Byzantine-style mosaics. Each year on September 19th, thousands gather here to watch the miracle of the saint’s blood liquefying, celebrated with processions and festivities lasting eight days.

See Frescoes & Tilework at the Santa Chiara Complex

Address: Via Santa Chiara, 49/c, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 060 6976

Website: Visit website

Santa Chiara Church, part of a religious complex established in the 14th century, showcases remarkable Baroque elements and houses the tombs of Angevin monarchs, alongside relics of Saint Louis of Toulouse. Explore the adjacent cloisters, adorned with intricate majolica-tiled columns and significant frescoes depicting scenes from the Old Testament, and visit the archaeological museum featuring a Roman bathhouse dating back to the 1st-century C.E.

Explore the Piazza San Domenico Maggiore & Sansevero Chapel

Address: P.za S. Domenico Maggiore, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Discover one of Naples’ most significant squares, enriched with an obelisk built by monks to express gratitude for surviving the deadly plague of 1656, showcasing the Church of San Domenico Maggiore’s early Renaissance art. Equally, do not miss Sansevero Chapel with its stunning marble sculptures, including the extraordinary Veiled Christ.

See Roman Ruins at the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore

Address: Piazza San Gaetano, 316, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 211 0860

Website: Visit website

A Gothic edifice, Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore provides a glimpse into a Greco-Roman city era with excavated ruins, recreating Roman life through carefully curated museum exhibits, including frescoed ceilings from various historic periods.

Explore the Naples Underground

Address: Vico S. Anna di Palazzo, 52, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 400256

Website: Visit website

Delve into the fascinating labyrinth of tunnels and chambers beneath Naples that unveil its storied past, showcasing ancient aqueducts and catacombs that date back centuries.

Go Back in Time at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples

Address: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 442 2111

Website: Visit website

Renowned for its vast collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, including astonishing artifacts from Pompeii, this museum is a treasure trove of history. Allow ample time to absorb its masterpieces, including the notable Secret Cabinet tour for an exclusive view of erotic works from Pompeii.

Imagine Life in the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace)

Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, 1, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 06 8757 0182

Website: Visit website

Constructed by Spanish Viceroys in the 17th century, Palazzo Reale stands as a monument to royal history, showcasing grand halls and royal apartments filled with exquisite furnishings and sweeping views of the bay from its roof garden.

Walk Around the Piazza del Plebiscito

Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Recognized as the heart of Naples, this vibrant square is complemented by significant landmarks including Palazzo Reale and San Francesco di Paola. Its rejuvenation reflects the grandeur of its surroundings, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

See Body Parts at the Anatomy Museum

Address: Via Luciano Armanni, 5, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 1876 0393

Website: Visit website

For those with a taste for the unusual, the University of Campania’s Anatomy Museum showcases preserved human remains, offering a unique perspective on anatomical studies and medical history.

Walk Spaccanapoli in the Heart of the City

Spaccanapoli serves as the main artery through the vibrant heart of Naples, lined with churches and historical structures. This bustling thoroughfare is a haven for traditional Neapolitan street food, keeping its cultural essence alive amidst the modern hustle.

Shop on Via San Gregorio Armeno

Address: Via S. Gregorio Armeno, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

This vibrant street offers a unique shopping experience for traditional Neapolitan nativity scenes. Enjoy artisan workshops that bring the figurines to life, particularly during local celebrations and holidays.

Explore Ancient Arcades on Via dei Tribunali

Via dei Tribunali, steeped in history, is lined with magnificent churches, preserving artistic masterpieces. Experience the enchanting architecture that tells the stories of Naples’ rich past.

Eat All of the Pizza Napolitana

Pizza, intrinsically linked to Naples’ cultural identity, is a must-try. The craft of pizza making has been recognized as an art form, making every bite not just a meal, but a part of history.

Indulge at Scaturchio Pastry Shop

Address: P.za S. Domenico Maggiore, 19, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 551 6944

Website: Visit website

Experience Naples’ rich pastry heritage by tasting traditional delicacies at Scaturchio, renowned for its remarkable offerings.

Take in the View From the Castel dell’Ovo

Address: Via Eldorado, 3, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 795 6180

Website: Visit website

The iconic Castel dell’Ovo, with its stunning harbor views, offers insightful exhibitions that narrate Naples’ storied past.

See the Castel Nuovo

Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele III, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 795 7722

Website: Visit website

This historic castle is also a museum that captures the essence of Naples through its impressive collection of art from various periods.

Test the Acoustics at Teatro di San Carlo

Address: Real Teatro di San Carlo, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy

Established in 1737, this opera house is famed for its superb acoustics and is a vital part of Naples’ cultural scene.

See the Masters at Capodimonte Museum and Park

Address: Via Miano, 2, 80131 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 749 9130

Website: Visit website

Capodimonte Museum, once a royal hunting lodge, houses world-class artworks and provides a tranquil park experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

Get a View From the National Museum and Monastery of San Martino

Address: Largo S. Martino, 5, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 229 4503

Website: Visit website

The Certosa di San Martino, perched high on Vomero Hill, showcases splendid cloisters and a remarkable array of nativity scenes and panoramic views of the city.

Get Lost at The Botanical Gardens of Naples

Address: Via Foria, 223, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

Phone: +39 081 253 3937

Website: Visit website

Renowned as one of Italy’s finest botanical gardens, explore its extensive grounds that support biodiversity and innovative research.

Ride the Funiculars

The historic funiculars of Naples, operating since the late 1800s, provide scenic access to breathtaking views, making transportation a delightful experience.