Posted by Naples is the third largest city in Italy with almost 1 million inhabitants. Naples has a lot to offer tourists. The old town of the capital of the region Campania and the archaeological museum are well known, which is especially famous for many pictures and objects from the cities Pompeii and Herculaneum destroyed by the volcano Vesuvius. Naples lies by the sea and is only a few kilometers away from the 1300 meter high volcano Vesuvius.
Naples with the mighty Vesuvius in the background
Naples is one of the most dangerous cities for tourists in Europe. Every day tourists are robbed, robbed and attacked. In addition, many areas of the city are quite run-down and dirty, literally garbaged up. Almost every second young person between 18 and 25 is unemployed in Naples. Many get off on the wrong track and become criminals. The Camorra is still very active and comparable to the mafia in Sicily. Many inhabitants are very religious in Naples, the Catholic Church is important.
Parking Naples: You can drive to Naples by car. But you should book a parking space on the internet beforehand. There is a wonderful website for this: Click here
Naples Underground Tour: Besides the Archaeological Museum, a tour through the underground of Naples is the biggest attraction of this city of millions for tourists. Naples Underground is the name given to the network of ancient Roman ruins and water reservoirs beneath the modern Italian city of Naples. This underground network includes underground chapels, churches and tombs, as well as ancient aqueducts, cisterns and tunnels that were used for water storage and transportation. The Naples Underground is open to the public and is considered a unique and fascinating attraction that offers an insight into ancient Roman history and architecture. Absolutely recommended and an experience you will never forget. More info and booking Naples Underground Tour
Sights Naples
If you want to see a lot in Naples, you can buy the Naples Pass. You can use it to visit many sights and much more: Link to a website about the Naples Pass
The cathedral of Naples, directly in the old town, is worth a visit.
If you go to Naples, you have to go to the old town. There is always something going on here, the whole old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are thousands of shops and restaurants in the narrow streets. Many people loudly praise their products and food.
In between there are illegal street vendors everywhere, mostly from Africa, musicians, beggars and pickpockets. One feels set back in another time, like 30 years ago. The Krippengasse is well known. Here, handmade cribs, crib figures and the like are sold all year round.
What one also has to see in Naples is the National Archaeological Museum. All important finds from Pompeii and other places sunk during the volcanic eruption of 79 AD are exhibited in the museum. It is only a few hundred metres northwest of the old town. We have created an extra page about the museum.
Catacombs: World famous are the catacombs of Naples. The majority of tourists in Naples visit the underworld of the city. There are, among others, the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Catacombs of San Gaudioso. Both are a few hundred meters north of the Archaeological Museum. >>> More information and booking on this link
Short film with impressions from Naples Old Town (Youtube)
Connections Naples
There is a subway (Metro) in Naples. Important for tourists is line 1, which connects the main station (stop: Garibaldi) with the Old Town and the Archaeological Museum (stop: Museo). Of course there are also many bus lines. As a tourist, one needs these especially if one has a hotel far away from the centre of Naples.
High speed trains run several times per hour between Naples and Rome (about 1.5 hours). Before the main station, the narrow-gauge trains of the Circumvesuviana depart in southern direction. With these old, but well functioning trains, one gets 1-3 times per hour to the excavation Pompeii, to the tourist city Sorrento at the sea and to the excavation Herculaneum. Salerno and other places are served by normal trains of the Italian railway.
From the central port in Naples there are many ferries, among others to the nearby islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. There are also boat connections from the port of Naples to the large islands of Sardinia, Sicily and Corsica. There are more ferries in summer than in winter.
Naples Top Sights
Naples is a city full of history and culture, offering visitors a wealth of attractions. From stunning architecture to world-famous museums, here are the top 10 attractions you should see when visiting Naples.
Ruins of Pompeii:
This ancient city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and has since lain under a layer of ash, offering a glimpse into the life of the ancient Romans. Visitors can see the remains of well-preserved houses, temples and public buildings and learn about the city’s history. Outside the city, easily accessible by local train. Buy tickets online
Castel dell’Ovo Castle:
This 12th century castle on a small island off the coast of Naples is considered one of the oldest castles in the world. Visitors can tour the castle and admire the stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Nuovo Castle:
Also known as the New Castle, this 13th century fortress once served as a royal palace, military prison and town hall. Visitors can tour the castle and admire the impressive architecture of the grand halls, courtyards and towers.
Catacombs of San Gennaro:
These ancient catacombs, which served as burial chambers for early Christians in Naples, offer a glimpse into the religious beliefs and practices of the time. Visitors can explore winding tunnels and chambers and admire ancient frescoes and sculptures. >>> More information and booking on this link
National Archaeological Museum of Naples:
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is considered one of the best museums in Italy. Visitors can admire an impressive collection of artefacts from ancient Rome and Greece, including sculptures, ceramics and mosaics. Buy tickets online
Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli:
This beautiful Renaissance church was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Naples. Visitors can admire the church’s impressive frescoes and stained glass windows.
Plebiscito Square:
This large square in the heart of Naples is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can admire the impressive architecture of the surrounding buildings and observe Naples’ vibrant street life. Royal Palace of Naples:
This magnificent palace was once the residence of the kings of Naples and is a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. Visitors can tour the palace and see many historic rooms such as the Throne Room, the Great Hall and the Royal Chapel.
Cathedral of San Gennaro:
Dedicated to Naples’ patron saint, this beautiful cathedral is considered one of the city’s most important religious landmarks. Visitors can admire the cathedral’s stunning architecture and learn more about the saints and the city’s history.
Herculaneum Ruins
The second major excavation next to Pompeii. The city was also destroyed along with Pompeii by the volcanic eruption in ancient times. Partly better preserved than Pompeii, very interesting. Outside Naples, easily accessible by train. Buy tickets online
Read also: The Amalfi Coast, a great area south of Naples