Guide to Naples: 13 Incredible Things to See and Do

Often hailed as Naples’ most authentic and traditional neighbourhood, the Quartieri Spagnoli, or Spanish Quarters, are a grid of streets frequented by tourists and locals alike. Constructed in the 16th century to house military barracks, these bustling streets are today a mix of family-run trattorias, local market stalls and residential palazzi, as well as a number of historic churches. Wander down whichever alley catches the eye, but save time to go underground and see the Toledo metro stop before moving on – as one of Naples’ ‘art stations’, its interior is covered in mesmerising blue mosaics. Recommended by Emma Law.

If you’re looking to scratch that spooky, underground itch while evading the hordes of tourists, the Bourbon Tunnel is for you. Built as a secret escape route for the city’s royal family in 1853, the tunnel connects the Royal Palace to the Piazza Vittoria. After being used as an air-raid shelter during World War II, it became a dumping ground for all sorts of debris, from fascist statues to lines of vintage cars and scooters, all untouched since the 1970s. It’s atmospheric and fascinating in equal measure, and a guided tour is a must.

Medieval meets modern at the Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum, housed in a restored, 19th-century palazzo. Explore the historic building while taking in art from the past 100 years. Permanent collections display the likes of Franz West, Anish Kapoor and Marina Abramović. There’s a strong focus on recent local art movements, and the museum also hosts some high-profile exhibitions.

Opera season at the Teatro di San Carlo runs from January to May each year, with ballet performances taking place from April to June. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at this grand, prestigious opera house – a 30-minute guided tour is a fantastic way to explore its 300-year history and majestic architecture, with centuries-old anecdotes woven in for good measure.

Need a break from all that sightseeing? Relax in the Neapolitan sun, and gaze out over the gorgeous Bay of Naples from the Parco Virgiliano. The islands of Ischia and Capri are also visible in the distance, creating a perfect backdrop for running, walking and cycling (hire e-bikes for an easier activity). For an idyllic evening, look out for the outdoor concerts that the park hosts during summer.

The Cimitero delle Fontanelle comprises natural caves, tufa mines and ancient Greek and Roman tunnels. They were used to hold the bodies of thousands of Neapolitans who died in the Naples Plague of 1656 – burial space had run out in churchyards around the city. In the centuries since, a cult has developed around these towering piles of skulls, with rosaries, candles, gifts and special requests dotted among the remains, acting as secret prayers for favours, health and even lottery wins.

What better way to experience the famously gorgeous coastline of Naples than on a kayak tour? Paddle your way around the bay – powered by all that delicious pasta you’ve been eating – with Kayak Napoli. Kayak, canoe and paddleboard excursions are all available, and beginners are welcome, with instruction provided. With a variety of tours – including sunset and full-moon paddles, visits to marine nature reserves, and coast-hugging routes that take in the city’s Roman villas – there’s something for everyone.

Pizza was invented in Naples, making it a pilgrimage for any foodie. If you’re visiting for the cuisine, a Cookly class should be a top priority. Get hands-on experience: learn how to cook your favourite Italian staples, taste local wines and visit produce markets, all guided by locals eager to share their love of food with you.

Renowned for having service that is as boisterous as its food is delicious, Trattoria da Nennella is a Naples institution. On any given night, you can expect to find waiters dancing on the tables and a raucous mix of locals and out-of-towners watching. The menu changes daily but offers classic Neapolitan dishes, such as patate alla Napoletana and intense, meaty ragu. Don’t be surprised if, at the end of the meal, your fruit platter arrives in a ceramic toilet seat – it’s all part of the fun. Recommended by Molly Codyre.

From Piazza del Plebiscito, it’s a short walk to Castel Nuovo, Naples’ so-called New Castle. Completed in 1282, it features a white marble triumphal arch set between two of its stone towers. The castle is home to a museum showcasing mainly sculptures and paintings from the 15th to the 20th century, but there’s no time to see inside on this itinerary. Instead, it’s time to move on and discover one of Naples’ most compelling neighbourhoods. Recommended by Emma Law.

The duomo, or cathedral, of Naples was founded in the 4th Century B.C. and constructed on the ruins of an early Christian basilica. The core of the present Gothic structure was built in the 13th Century, but it has undergone a number of constructive face-lifts over the years. The church is famous for housing two vials of blood of the city’s patron saint, San Gennaro. The miraculously liquefying blood is only brought out three times a year though, so most visitors have to make do with the prized frescos by Domenichino and Giovanni Lanfranco instead. Recommended by Emma Law.

Hop on a boat and cruise over to the island of Capri for a relaxing day spent swimming in the crystalline waters, taking in the awe-inspiring Blue Grotto and soaking up the Mediterranean sun. Hotels on the island can be expensive, so this is a budget-friendly way to explore it while keeping pennies in your pocket. From day-long excursions to half-day trips, there’s a whole range of journeys that you can choose to best cater to your needs. Recommended by Molly Codyre.

Prepare to be amazed and take a day tour from Naples to explore the world-famous ruins of Pompeii. A Unesco World Heritage site, the ancient city was simultaneously ruined and preserved by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. Many features of the buried city – including buildings, monuments and even people – have been frozen in time by the heavy layers of ash that overwhelmed them. By opting for a tour, you’ll hear from an expert about what life was like at the time of the eruption and get insider knowledge on all the main sites. Recommended by Molly Codyre.