Naples, Italy, is a vibrant city filled with rich history, delicious food, and stunning sights. Wondering how many days in Naples, Italy, are enough to experience the best it has to offer? Three days is a perfect start.
This 3-day Naples itinerary covers the top things to do in Naples. Know where to stay in Naples, and where to eat in Naples, ensuring you make the most of your trip. This enchanting southern Italian city gives you a wonderful experience.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Naples
Morning: Centro Storico and San Gregorio Armeno
Start your first day in the heart of Naples, known as the Centro Storico. This area has narrow streets and historic buildings, offering a perfect introduction to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Begin with a visit to the famous San Gregorio Armeno, a street famous for its artisan shops. These intricate creations are a long-standing tradition in Naples. The street is bustling with activity, especially during the holiday season.
- Breakfast: Stop by Sfogliatella Mary in Galleria Umberto I for a traditional Neapolitan pastry called sfogliatella and a cappuccino. The flaky, shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta is a must-try.
Mid-Morning: Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground)
Dive into the history of Naples with a tour of the Napoli Sotterranea. It is an underground network of tunnels and caverns beneath the city. This tour gives a unique perspective on the ancient history of Naples, showcasing Greek and Roman ruins.
It also presents WWII air-raid shelters and ancient cisterns. It's a fascinating journey through time, revealing layers of the city that you wouldn't see above ground.
Lunch: Via dei Tribunali
Head to Via dei Tribunali, the heart of Naples' street food scene. Enjoy a classic Margherita pizza at Sorbillo, one of the most famous pizzerias in Naples. This area is also great for sampling other street food delights like arancini (fried rice balls) and cuoppo (a cone of fried seafood). Stroll down the street and you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Afternoon: Naples Cathedral and Veiled Christ
Visit the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro) to admire its stunning architecture and rich history. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Januarius, the city's patron saint popular for its beautiful elements. Then, walk to the Cappella Sansevero to see the Veiled Christ, a remarkable marble sculpture. The delicate veil carved from a single block of marble is considered a masterpiece of baroque art.
Evening: Piazza del Plebiscito and Dinner
Stroll to Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples. It is surrounded by impressive buildings like the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. The open space of the piazza is perfect for a leisurely walk, and you can often find street performers and local events taking place.
- Dinner: Dine at Trattoria da Nennella in the Quartieri Spagnoli. This bustling trattoria is famous for its authentic Neapolitan dishes and lively atmosphere. Try local favorites like pasta alla Genovese which is a slow-cooked beef and onion sauce. Finish with a classic Neapolitan dessert like baba al rum.
Night: Seaside Promenade
End your day with a leisurely walk along the seaside promenade, taking in views of the Bay of Naples and Castel dell'Ovo. The sea breeze and beautiful nighttime view of the bay and the castle lit up make for a perfect end to your first day in Naples.
Day 2: Art, History, and Scenic Views
Morning: National Archaeological Museum
Begin your day with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum. Home to one of the most extensive collections of Greco-Roman artifacts in the world. The museum’s highlights include the Farnese Collection and artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. It’s a treasure trove of ancient art and everyday items of history.
- Breakfast: Enjoy a coffee and pastry at Gran Caffè Gambrinus, a historic café near Piazza del Plebiscito. The elegant setting and rich history of the café make it a delightful spot to start your day.
Mid-Morning: Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino
Take the funicular to Castel Sant'Elmo, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Naples and the Gulf of Naples. The fortress itself is an interesting site, but the real draw is the view from the top.
It provides a stunning vista of the city and the bay. Nearby, visit the Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery with an impressive art collection and beautiful gardens. The museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of Naples.
Lunch: Quartieri Spagnoli
Explore the Quartieri Spagnoli district and try some street food. This area is famous for its vibrant street life and dense network of narrow streets. Grab a fried pizza or a cuoppo from one of the many vendors. The Quartieri Spagnoli is a great place to soak in the local atmosphere and see how Neapolitans live their daily lives.
Afternoon: Castel Nuovo and Teatro di San Carlo
Visit Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), a medieval castle with a fascinating history and a small museum. The castle, with its imposing towers and grand hall, is a symbol of Naples’ historical power. Next, tour the Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest continuously active opera house in the world. The theater’s opulent interior and storied past make it a must-see for any visitor.
Evening: Dinner and Strolling Spaccanapoli
- Dinner: Head to L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele for a classic Neapolitan pizza, famous for its simple menu. The pizzeria has been serving its famous pizzas since 1870 and is considered one of the best in the city.
Take a walk down Spaccanapoli, the straight and narrow street that cuts through the historic center of Naples. This lively street has a line of shops, churches, and cafes. It is the perfect place to enjoy an evening stroll.
Night: Piazza Bellini
End your night at Piazza Bellini, a lively square known for its vibrant nightlife and bars. The historical buildings and ancient Greek ruins give it a unique charm. Enjoy a drink and soak in the local atmosphere, mingling with both locals and fellow travelers.
Day 3: Day Trips and Hidden Gems
Morning: Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast
Take a day trip from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world. You can catch a ferry or join an organized tour that includes stops in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. The scenic drive along the coastline offers breathtaking views, with the azure sea on one side and dramatic cliffs on the other.
- Breakfast: Have an early breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick coffee and pastry from a local café before heading out.
Mid-Morning: Positano and Amalfi
In Positano, explore the narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes, and enjoy the stunning beach views. The town's pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffside create a picturesque scene that's perfect for photos. Continue to Amalfi, where you can visit the historic Amalfi Cathedral and stroll through the charming town center. The cathedral, with its striking striped facade, is one of the architectural highlights of the region.
Lunch: Ravello
Head up to Ravello for lunch with a view. Enjoy local dishes at Villa Maria, which offers a terrace with panoramic views of the coastline. Ravello has a serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens, such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. Both the gardens offer spectacular views.
Afternoon: Return to Naples
Return to Naples in the afternoon and relax at your hotel before heading out for the evening. This is a good time to reflect on the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and perhaps catch up on some rest before your final evening in Naples.
Evening: Dinner in Chiaia
- Dinner: For your final dinner in Naples, dine at Palazzo Petrucci in the upscale Chiaia district. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The creative dishes and elegant setting provide a perfect conclusion to your culinary exploration of Naples.
Night: Sunset at Lungomare Caracciolo
End your trip with a sunset walk along Lungomare Caracciolo, the scenic waterfront promenade. Enjoy the views of the Gulf of Naples and the twinkling lights of the city as the sun sets. The peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas are a wonderful way to cap off your three days in Naples.
Where to Stay in Naples
Luxury: Grand Hotel Vesuvio - Located on the waterfront with stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a spa. The hotel's prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.
Mid-Range: Hotel Piazza Bellini - This hotel is situated in the heart of the historic center. This stylish hotel combines modern comfort with historic charm. It’s close to many major attractions