The 16 Best Things to Do in Naples in 2025

This Naples travel guide highlights the must-visit places in Naples and hidden treasures so you can plan your trip confidently. Discover how Naples’ rich past and lively present come together to create a travel experience you won’t forget.

Things to do in Naples - best activities in Naples

Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Visitors can walk through intact villas, baths, bakeries, and forums, gaining rare insights into daily life in ancient Rome. The preservation of frescoes and artifacts makes it essential for those exploring Roman history, UNESCO sites, and cultural heritage. Be sure to explore the best-preserved ancient ruins of Pompeii for a deeper understanding of life before the eruption.

Naples National Archaeological Museum

This museum is essential if you're interested in Greco-Roman history. Its vast collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, bronze statues, and tools, offers deep insight into Roman daily life and mythology. I recommend starting in the Farnese Collection section, where you’ll find some of the most detailed classical sculptures I’ve seen in any European museum. 

The Naples National Archaeological Museum attracted a record 673,000 visitors in 2019, and even after recent drops, it still drew 553,000 in 2023.

Source: Apnews.com

Piazza Bellini

Piazza Bellini, a well-liked piazza in the historic center, combines contemporary social life with ancient ruins. It is renowned for its lively environment, particularly in the evening, and is surrounded by cafes and bars. Nestled just below street level, Naples's unique historical depth is highlighted by the exquisitely preserved Greek ruins beneath the pavement.

Gesù Nuovo

Located in the heart of the Centro Storico, the Church of Gesù Nuovo features a striking diamond-patterned stone façade and richly decorated Baroque interior. Inside, elaborate frescoes, altars, and chapels reflect Naples' artistic and religious heritage. It’s an architectural landmark blending history, faith, and Neapolitan identity.

Pio Monte della Misericordia

This 17th-century chapel and charitable institution is home to Caravaggio’s “The Seven Works of Mercy.” The artwork, integrated with the building’s spiritual mission, reflects Naples’ historical commitment to faith and compassion. The space merges religious devotion with high art, making it a hidden cultural asset.

Fontanelle Cemetery

There are hundreds of Neapolitans buried in Fontanelle Cemetery, a magnificent ossuary in a tranquil tufa cave. It’s deeply tied to the heartfelt tradition of the ‘anime pezzantelle,’ reflecting a unique local reverence for the souls of the anonymous dead. 

I found this site especially moving, not only for its eerie atmosphere but for the way it reveals Naples’ unique blend of faith, superstition, and respect for the dead. Go with a local guide if you can; the stories tied to this place are as memorable as the visuals.

Teatro di San Carlo

The Teatro di San Carlo, a historic icon of Neapolitan culture, opened its doors in 1737 and is the oldest opera house still in operation in Europe. Its grand design and acoustics continue to attract major productions and audiences. The theater reflects the city's long-standing dedication to music and performing arts.

Mount Vesuvius

Overlooking the scenic Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius stands as one of Europe’s most iconic active volcanoes, offering visitors dramatic views and a memorable experience. Visitors can hike to the crater for panoramic views and observe geological features that shaped Pompeii and Herculaneum’s history.  

For a full day of discovery, consider a guided day trip from Rome to Pompeii, where Mount Vesuvius' majestic presence shapes the landscape and enriches the cultural memory of the entire region.

Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)

Under Naples, this system of aqueducts, tunnels, and air-raid shelters demonstrates more than two millennia of urbanization and engineering. Ancient Greek foundations, Roman reservoirs, and WWII history are all highlighted during tours. The underground city enhances understanding of Naples’ resilience and layered construction.

Royal Palace of Naples

The Royal Palace, which is gracefully situated in Piazza del Plebiscito, enthralls tourists with its outstanding ornamental arts and architecture from the Bourbon era. State rooms, throne halls, and antique furnishings offer insight into Naples’ royal history and political influence. The building is a proud centerpiece of Naples’ monumental core, reflecting the city's rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Castel dell’Ovo

The oldest and most charming castle in Naples, Castel dell'Ovo, is perched gracefully on the glittering beachfront and has a rich Roman and Norman past.. Local legend adds a touch of mystery, claiming the city's destiny is safeguarded by a magical egg hidden within its ancient walls. It offers expansive views of the Gulf and is linked to Naples’ maritime defense.

Museo Cappella Sansevero

The magnificent sculpture, the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino, which displays amazing marble skill, is the reason the Museo Cappella Sansevero is well-known. This tiny chapel is a veritable gold mine of Baroque artwork and archetypal meaning. One of the most fascinating cultural destinations in Naples is this place because of its small size and artistic skill.

Amalfi Coast (as a nearby attraction)

Just a short trip from Naples, the Amalfi Coast unfolds with breathtaking cliffs and charming pastel-hued villages overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Destinations like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello offer coastal charm, historic churches, and panoramic views. It's an ideal extension for those combining urban exploration with seaside relaxation and UNESCO-listed beauty.

Herculaneum

Smaller and more compact than Pompeii, Herculaneum was also buried by Vesuvius in 79 AD but remarkably preserved with intricate details that bring ancient life vividly to view. Visitors can explore intact wooden structures, frescoes, and upper-floor remains rarely found in other ancient Roman cities. If you're looking to complement your trip to Pompeii, visiting both ancient excavation sites in a single tour can offer a deeper historical contrast.

San Carlo Theatre

San Carlo Theatre is an icon of Naples’ artistic prestige and the oldest functioning opera house in Europe. Known for its neoclassical façade and ornate interior, it continues to host international ballet and opera. Beyond performances, guided tours reveal its royal boxes, stage machinery, and musical legacy.

Spaccanapoli

Spaccanapoli, the vibrant, narrow street cutting through Naples’ historic center, is alive with charming churches, bustling shops, and skilled artisan workshops. It’s a focal point of local life, connecting visitors to key landmarks like Santa Chiara and San Domenico Maggiore. The street's famous function in forming and defining the center of the historic city is reflected in its name, Naples Splitter.

Naples itinerary- What to see in Naples, Italy

Naples travel tips- Naples sightseeing

• Ideal Time to Go to Naples: The best seasons for sightseeing and walking along the shore are spring and fall, when there are fewer tourists and nicer weather.
• Make Reservations in Advance: To ensure a smooth visit, it’s best to buy tickets ahead of time for popular sites like Pompeii, the Veiled Christ, and Teatro di San Carlo
• Navigating Naples: Explore Naples' main attractions and neighborhoods with ease by taking the Metro Line 1, the funiculars, and the walking trails.
• Purchase the Naples Pass: Ideal for quick or long visits, the Naples Pass offers discounts on museums, transportation, and important sites.
• Stay careful: For safety, avoid quiet streets late at night in busy tourist areas, stick to well-lit spots, and always watch your belongings carefully.
• Examine the Nightlife: With its fantastic pubs, live music, and laid-back Neapolitan atmosphere, Piazza Bellini is a local favorite for nightlife.

Conclusion

Naples will be a colorful mosaic of historic landmarks, strong flavors, breathtaking coastlines, and undiscovered treasures. You will come across a city that is teeming with life and history, whether you follow our schedule, explore the city's main attractions, or go for sunset views while strolling along the coast. Naples is waiting for you to explore its streets, sample its pizza, and take in its excitement.

Dream Tourism is available to assist you with your travel arrangements. Naples awaits you to stroll its streets, eat its pizza, and experience its thrill.