After Rome and Milan, it is the third-largest city in Italy. Naples has a rich history and cultural life. It is famous for its folk traditions and cuisine (the birthplace of pizza).

Naples is considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy in every respect, with its slightly chaotic life adding to its charm.

There is so much to see and do around Naples!

Naples attractions

Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral

The cathedral is built on the foundation of an early Christian church, the Basilica of Santa Restituta from the 4th century. The construction of the present church began in the 13th century on the orders of King Charles I of Anjou. In the 17th century, it was remodeled in Baroque style, later receiving a Neo-Gothic facade.

The interior features Domenichino’s altar, the ornate main altar by Francesco Solimena, bronze railings by Cosimo Fanzago, and other masterpieces, frescoes, and a 14th-century French reliquary.

In one of the cathedral’s chapels, the blood relic of Saint Januarius, Naples’ patron saint, is kept in an ampoule. Twice a year, on the first Saturday in May and September 19, this relic is brought out of the church, and the solid blood turns liquid due to movement, which the populace considers a divine miracle.

Entry is free!

Capodimonte Royal Palace and Museum

The former Bourbon palace was the summer residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

King Charles VIII built it in 1738 to house the vast Farnese collection. Today, it is the city’s most significant museum and gallery.

The museum is home to masterpieces of Neapolitan and Italian cultural heritage. The first two floors house the National Gallery of Naples, with paintings from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including works by Simone Martini, Titian, Caravaggio, and Botticelli.

The royal apartments feature original 18th-century furniture, tapestries, and porcelains used during the Bourbon and Savoy dynasties.

Accessible by bus (3M, 168, 178) or by trolleybus 204 to the Capodimonte stop.

All information can be found here!

Napoli Sotterranea

Beneath the city lies a vast cave system known as Underground Naples.

Its history dates back more than 2,400 years to the ancient Greeks, who first began extracting tuff stone from the area for building material for Naples.

Over the centuries, this labyrinthine system has served various purposes, including as a reservoir, a shelter during World War II, and even a venue for theatrical performances.

It can be visited on guided tours! All information can be found here!

Decumano Inferiore

This is the most famous street that cuts through the old town. It was once the main street.

It is a remnant of ancient Greek urban planning, which the Romans continued to develop. It still determines the city’s structure today.

Its more popular name is Spaccanapoli (Naples Divider), where old Roman apartment buildings, the insulae, can also be found. The long street features several churches and palaces.

Galleria Umberto I

Similar to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, this is a passage opposite the San Carlo opera house.

Built between 1887 and 1891, it was a cornerstone of Naples’ reconstruction, which lasted until World War I. The center of the cross-shaped passage is covered by a massive glass dome supported by 16 ribs. The mosaics decorating the floor and the statues and reliefs adorning the walls are particularly noteworthy.

Piazza del Plebiscito

Naples’ main square and largest open space, featuring two remarkable landmarks: the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola.

Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale)

This palace served as a residence for the Bourbon kings.

It was built on the site of an existing palace for the reception of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, though the visit never occurred. In the 18th century, the royal court moved to Caserta, which was deemed more defensible than the coastal city of Naples, leaving the palace uninhabited.

One of its most beautiful features is the grand Baroque double staircase leading to the inner courtyard, decorated with beautiful reliefs. At the base of the stairs, the former Renaissance bronze doors of Castel Nuovo are displayed.

The National Library (Biblioteca Nazionale), located on the second floor, houses valuable collections from formerly separate private libraries.

The palace is connected to the Teatro San Carlo, one of Europe’s largest theaters and one of Italy’s premier opera houses.

All information can be found here!

Church of San Francesco di Paola

Located on the western side of Piazza del Plebiscito, this is one of Naples’ most significant churches.

In the early 19th century, King Joachim Murat of Naples (Napoleon’s brother-in-law) began constructing a large square with colonnades in honor of the French Emperor. After Napoleon’s downfall, the Bourbons regained the Neapolitan throne. Ferdinand IV continued the construction, completing the colonnade in 1816 and converting the central hall into the present church. The church is dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola, who lived in a monastery that once stood on the site in the 16th century.

From both the hill and the square, the church is dominated by a massive dome resembling the Pantheon (53 meters high). The interior also seeks to emulate the Roman Pantheon, with statues decorating the interior. The noteworthy Baroque main altar is adorned with lapis lazuli and jasper.

Church of San Domenico Maggiore

The church has undergone various stylistic transformations, restored to its original Gothic form in the 19th century.

The adjoining monastery housed many historical, religious, and philosophical figures.

The sacristy contains forty-five funerary monuments (coffins covered with precious fabrics) accumulated over the centuries, including the tomb of King Ferdinand I of Naples.

Sansevero Chapel (Cappella Sansevero)

This Baroque chapel was constructed around 1590 when the Sansevero princes built their private chapel near their palace. It also served as their burial site.

Beneath the chapel, there is a room where, according to legend, the prince conducted experiments on his servants. Two of the supposed victims’ preserved bodies are displayed, showing the human musculature on real skeletons.

The chapel boasts three remarkable statues exemplifying late Baroque ornamentation:

• The Veiled Truth by Antonio Corradini, the tomb of Raimondo di Sangro’s mother, Cecilia Gaetani d’Aragona.
• The Veiled Christ, created by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753.
• The third statue, Disillusion, by Genoese sculptor Francesco Queirolo, adorns the tomb of Raimondo’s father.

Castel Nuovo

Also known as Maschio Angioino, this is Naples’ most famous building and a symbol of the city. The triumphal arch decorating its gate is the city’s finest Renaissance element.

On the seaward side, beneath the so-called Beverello Bastion, lies the Sala dei Baroni. This large rectangular hall features a star-shaped Gothic ribbed ceiling that spans several stories.

The castle’s only remaining Angevin part is the chapel, from which 147 steps lead up to the Sala dei Baroni.

Entrance is free for those under 18!

Accessible by taking Metro Line 1 to the Municipio stop.

All information can be found here!

Castel dell’Ovo

Compared to the Castel Nuovo, this might not seem as impressive, but the view from the castle’s bastions is very beautiful. It stands on a small peninsula jutting into the sea.

The castle is connected to the mainland by a 100-meter-long causeway, with two bastions at the entrance. The castle itself is rectangular, about 200 meters long and 45 meters wide. Inside the buildings, exhibitions and various events are held. The extension behind the castle was originally used as a harbor. On the southeast side of the castle, there is an impressive round tower.

Entry is free!

Castel Sant’Elmo

Located at the highest point of the city, the fortress and the Saint Martin Monastery stand. The fortress was built in the 14th century and now houses the Bruno Molajoli Museum.

Next to the fortress, on the eastern side, there is a stunning view of the city and Mount Vesuvius. I suggest going up late in the afternoon and staying until it gets dark. You will be treated to a beautiful sight!

Entry is free for those under 18!

Accessible by funicular line 2 from Corso Vittorio Emanuele to Morghen stop; by bus V1 to the fortress.

All information can be found here!

Bourbon Tunnel (Tunnel Borbonico)

This tunnel was built in the 19th century to provide an escape route for King Ferdinand II and his family if needed.

There are several articles related to this because many car wrecks can be found down there.

All information can be found here!

Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)

Naples’ most valuable museum, preserving artifacts from the aftermath of Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD. Its most famous piece is the Alexander Mosaic, found in Pompeii.

Adults should visit the Gabinetto Secreto, the secret room, which displays ancient erotic art.

All information can be found here!

Santa Chiara

A Neapolitan basilica and church complex that includes the actual church, a monastery, crypts, and a museum.

Another important sight is the cloister, built in the 14th century. In later centuries, its benches and wells were covered with yellow-glazed majolica tiles.

The garden is also very beautiful, filled with various cultivated fruits, vegetables, and trees.

Santa Lucia

If you want to see the real face of Naples, you must visit this neighborhood!

The narrow streets with drying clothes overhead, the loud conversations, and the chaotic traffic all contribute to its authenticity.

L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele

A must-visit for tourists, this is where the best pizza in Italy was made. The place even appeared in a film.

It has two specialties: the margherita and the marinara (tomato and spices).

Toledo Metro Station

Toledo Metro Station, leading to the shopping street, is considered one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world.

The beautiful mosaics adorning the station are the work of Spanish designer Oscar Tusquets Blanca.

My experience

Naples, Vesuvius and Pompeii in a long weekend

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Italy has been the home of many well-known, influential European cultures, such as the Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans.

It is one of the most visited countries in the world. Its tourist appeal is very diverse, with cultural, archaeological, natural sights, as well as winter and summer sports and vacation opportunities making it an attractive destination.

Best places in Italy

Tuscany

Perhaps the most beautiful and authentic region of Italy. It’s impossible to select just one specific place; the entire region deserves to be on the list.

Tuscany boasts significant historical heritage due to the Etruscans and became a true cultural center for the arts and literature in the Middle Ages.

Its main city, Florence, rightly called the cradle of the Renaissance, is detailed separately on the list below.

The wonderful countryside hills hide one of the most famous wine varieties, Chianti. Among these vine-covered hills, beautiful villages and towns are nestled.

Best places in Tuscany

Amalfi Coast

The stretch of coast south of Naples is one of Italy’s most visited areas.

The steep cliffs offer breathtaking views of the sea, and visitors are enchanted by the sight of mountains rising over 1000 meters in the area.

The central part, including the towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, situated on the hillside, forms the iconic image of the Amalfi Coast.

If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss the Path of the Gods. This nearly 8 km trail offers stunning views at every turn, rightfully making it one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking routes.

Attractions around Naples

Rome

The capital, which was perhaps the most significant city of the ancient world, is a must-visit.

As the center of the Roman Empire, ancient buildings and monuments are found at every turn. Don’t limit your list to just the Colosseum or the Pantheon; Rome offers much more!

Its significance is further enhanced by the Vatican, whose museum collection is among the most important and largest in the world.

Rome attractions

Milan

One of the capitals of fashion, Milan, cannot be missed among the most beautiful places.

Popular with tourists, Milan’s main attractions are located in the city center, making them easily accessible on foot. The Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforza Castle, and Brera Art Gallery are just a few of the many beautiful sights.

Milan attractions

Cinque Terre

This small peninsula on the Ligurian Sea consists of five towns, making it one of the most beautiful places for Italy enthusiasts.

The name itself means „five lands” referring to the five towns nestled between the vibrant green, steep hillsides and the turquoise sea.

The pastel-colored houses built on the cliff tops offer a unique, fairy-tale view, making Cinque Terre a world-famous destination.

The steep hillsides have long been terraced to cultivate grapes, herbs, olive trees, lemons, and oranges.

Naples

There’s a saying that goes, „See Naples and die” indicating the magnificent experience awaiting visitors to this southern Italian city.

The consensus is that it’s not primarily the attractions but the atmosphere that captivates those who visit.

But don’t stop exploring the city! A short boat ride takes you to the islands of Procida or Capri, and by train, you can easily reach Pompeii (and from there by bus to Mount Vesuvius) – all must-visit destinations!

Naples attractions

Caserta Royal Palace

A few kilometers from Naples stands the former residence of the Bourbon kings. Its significance is evident as it was the largest European construction project of the 18th century.

The museum, which opened in the late 1950s, includes the royal apartments, the court theater, and the gardens. With its grandeur, size, and accompanying gardens, it stands alongside the palaces of Versailles, Madrid, and Saint Petersburg as one of the largest and most impressive royal palaces in Europe.

The castle park is also stunning. Along the central avenue, there is a series of fountains and pools, fed by an artificially created waterfall cascading down the side of the Briano hill.

Royal Palace of Caserta: Italy’s Versailles and the Masterpiece of the Bourbons

Venice

Home to one of the world’s most famous carnivals, Venice is easily accessible from our country, making it a popular destination.

The city’s beauty is reflected in its nicknames: „Queen of the Adriatic”, „City of Water”, „City of Light”.

With its canals and houses standing on stilts, Venice has become a world-famous tourist destination. In St. Mark’s Square, marriage proposals are often witnessed.

Alberobello

In the Puglia region, about 50 km from the city of Bari, there is a town known worldwide for its unique houses.

These houses, called trulli, are cylindrical or square buildings with conical roofs, built entirely of stone without any mortar or wooden supporting structures.

Their origin has an interesting story: a count once decreed that houses should be easily dismantled and rebuilt to avoid a tax on homes. When tax collectors came, the houses were taken down and then rebuilt after they left.

Wandering through the many streets of trulli, you can spend hours enjoying the labyrinthine walks.

Best places in Puglia

Florence

I previously mentioned Florence as the center of Tuscany, but it also deserves its own spot among the most beautiful places in Italy!

Often referred to as the cradle of the Renaissance, the city was greatly influenced by the Medici family. Its historical center is rightfully part of UNESCO’s World Heritage.

Among Florence’s famous buildings are the Ponte Vecchio and the cathedral, but the city is most renowned for Michelangelo’s statue of David.

Florence attractions

Sicily

Much like Naples, Sicily, though rich in attractions, captures tourists with its atmosphere.

Its capital, Palermo, is a chaotic yet wonderful city. Strolling through the city, you’ll almost always find a market where you shouldn’t miss the seafood dishes.

On the eastern side of Sicily, Catania with Mount Etna and Syracuse with its island old town showcase the magical side of the region.

Best places in Sicily

Bologna

The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region boasts a rich history and an impressive cultural heritage.

In Bologna’s historic center, numerous stunning buildings and palaces can be found. Piazza Maggiore, the main square, is home to one of Europe’s largest Gothic basilicas. Additionally, the Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, are iconic symbols of the city.

The arcades are particularly noteworthy. Bologna is home to the world’s longest arcade system, stretching over 62 kilometers! Thanks to this, the city has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Bologna attractions

Best museums in Bologna

La Pelosa

Sardinia is abundant in beautiful beaches, making it essential to include one in any itinerary.

La Pelosa is not just a beautiful beach; with its white sand and turquoise blue waters, it could easily be mistaken for a tropical paradise.

If you’re vacationing in Sardinia, don’t miss this stunning beach!

Gradara

Not far from Rimini, this picturesque small town is dominated by a very impressive castle.

The castle rising above the town (Rocca di Gradara) is one of the best-preserved and most spectacular medieval fortresses in Italy, and within its walls lies a small village.

Inside the castle, you can explore rooms furnished with medieval furniture, a chapel decorated with frescoes, and the armory. Walking along the castle walls, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the surrounding area.

They have also played an important role in culture. According to legend, one episode of Dante’s Divine Comedy takes place here, where the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca comes to an end. This story further increased the fame of Gradara and its castle.

Tropea

Located in the Italian „boot” in the Calabria region, this city is known for its magnificent beaches.

Tropea’s Old Town, known as the „Coast of the Gods”, is worth visiting not just for its narrow beaches. The old town is built on a 40-meter-high limestone cliff, offering fantastic views of the Gulf of Saint Euphemia.

On the beach, a Benedictine monastery, Santa Maria dell’Isola, stands alone on a limestone rock.

But don’t just stop here; the area has many small yet beautiful beaches waiting to be discovered. Feel free to explore them!

Turin

Unfortunately, Turin tends to be overshadowed by Rome, Milan, and Naples, despite being one of Northern Italy’s most significant cities.

The cultural richness of Turin is evident from the fact that it has the most museums in the country. Notably, it hosts four national museums, including the Museo del Risorgimento with the memorial room of Lajos Kossuth.

Located at the foot of the Alps and along the Po River, Turin’s iconic building is the Mole Antonelliana. Standing 167.5 meters tall, its dome lights up at night with the numbers of the Fibonacci sequence. It also houses the National Museum of Cinema.

Another main feature is the over 18 km of arcades, of which 12 km are interconnected. The first arcades were built in the Middle Ages, but the existing ones started in the 17th century.

Turin attractions

Seceda

The Dolomites, the Italian part of the Alps, are home to numerous stunning locations.

The 2519-meter-tall Seceda is one of the most well-known peaks, easily accessible. A cable car runs to the base of this peak near Bolzano, from where it’s an easy walk to the top, even for children. The view from there is unparalleled.

Matera

The city’s highlight is the Sassi di Matera, a complex of historical cave dwellings that make up the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993 and the European Capital of Culture in 2019.

The cityscape, particularly the Piazza Duomo built on the city’s highest point, is visible from almost everywhere.

People lived in the mentioned cave dwellings without electricity and water until the 1950s. Today, they are uninhabited and open for visitors, known as the country’s largest open-air museum.

Burano

And while in Venice, don’t miss the town of Burano on a nearby island!

Its main attraction is the brightly colored houses. Since the island’s heyday, the local government has regulated the colors that houses can be painted, resulting in streets adorned with a variety of pastel hues.

Burano is also famous for its lace-making. The Lace-making School established in 1872 showcases this craft.

Ostuni

If you’re visiting Alberobello, it’s worth making a trip to the nearby town of Ostuni.

Built atop a hill, this town is famous for its whitewashed houses. Honestly, it reminded me of Santorini when I saw the pictures.

The old town, surrounded by a wall, is charming to walk through, with its white houses and narrow alleys and streets. It’s aptly nicknamed „La Città Bianca” or The White City.

Sirmione

While Lake Garda as a whole deserves its own post, the town of Sirmione on its southern shore is particularly noteworthy.

The narrow but long peninsula has been a popular resort since Roman times, thanks to its stunning location. The famous ancient Roman poet, Catullus, had a villa here.

You enter the town through a castle, which offers a spectacular panoramic view from its walls.

With its narrow streets and colorful houses, Sirmione is not only one of the most beautiful spots on Lake Garda but also in Italy!

Lake Garda and its surroundings: attractions and activities

Trieste

One of the most unique cities in Italy, Trier is located on the Adriatic coast, on the border with Slovenia.

Its rich history and cultural diversity are a result of a mixture of ancient Roman, Austro-Hungarian and Italian influences. It is famous for its café culture and literary past, which has attracted writers such as James Joyce.

Highlights include Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest seaside squares, the Cathedral and fortress of San Giusto and the Miramare Castle.

Trieste attractions

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