Culture & History in NaplesNapoli, the city of Diego Maradona, birthplace of pizza and cradle of Italian theatre. Besides being a hotspot of culture, Naples also has a rich history... During this trip, you will explore an underground world, timetravel to ancient Rome & eat world's best pizza. AuthorsTristanTravels
DestinationsNaplesItinerary

1. The City of Naples

1.1. Historical Centre

Inizio Spaccanapoli
The Spaccanapoli is actually what the historic centre is all about, it is the street that cuts the old town in half. On this narrow, cosy street you will find a surplus of shops, food stalls, piazza's and monuments. Enjoy strolling down this long alleyway. NOTE: Watch out when you walk over the streets in Naples, the locals drive like crazy and most of them won't stop.
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Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo
The Gesu Nuovo Church is in the square of the same name, this is the official start of the Spaccanapoli, the exterior does not immediately look like a church but the interior is beautiful, with lots of gold decoration.
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Sansevero Chapel Museum
The biggest sight on the Spaccanapoli is the San Severo Chapel, home to the famous veiled Christ. NOTE: You are not allowed to take pictures in here.
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Via San Gregorio Armeno
Via San Gregorio Armeno is my favourite street in Naples, the whole street is full of shops and stalls selling Christmas statues of all shapes and figures, from Maradona to Pizza Bakers, the whole town plays a part in the Italian Christmas crib. It is located on a side street of the Spaccanapoli close to the Duomo.
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Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta
This cathedral is of great importance to Neapolitans, we were there during Festa di San Gennaro and the cathedral was over crowded. This festival includes the ritual where they let the blood of San Gennaro flow, if it flows, then Naples is in for a good year. If it does not flow, then disaster awaits. Luckily for us the blood did flow. You can also visit the cathedral outside this feast; it has a beautiful and spacious interior and you will find many altars of San Gennaro.
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Piazzetta Nilo
This little square is located at Spaccanapoli and is known for its statue of the Egyptian God of the Nile. When you pass at Bar Nilo, take a look inside, here you will find an altar for Maradona.
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Napoli Sotterranea
Napoli Sotterranea is a paid tour of underground Naples. You start in an old war bunker, where the guide will tell about its function, after this you will come to an experimental plant garden, then you will go through very narrow and small underground alleys to an ancient Roman water reservoir, which you can see in the picture. Finally, the guide will take you to the house of an old lady who carried a great secret with her... The guide spoke perfect English and gave us lots of information. A real must-do in Naples!
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National Archaeological Museum of Naples
On a trip with my brother, who is a big history lover, a visit to the Archaeological Museum could not be missed. Here you will find the impressive Farnese collection, with hundreds of statues of emperors, poets, philosophers... including the world famous Atlas statue. You will also find a wide collection of gems. Downstairs you will find the Egyptian collection with jars, statues... Furthermore, you will also find the Epigraphic collection. Above is about the excavated objects from Pompeii and Herculaneum: vases, pitchers, statues, frescoes... You will also find the Greek rooms, which you have to pay extra for and put on special shoe covers, as the grounds here are authentic, you will find mostly vases. Finally, you will find the famous fresco of Alexander The Great, the masterpiece of this museum that makes it a must-see. The museum will take about 2 hours for most people but about 4 hours when you come with a history fanatic.
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Piazza Bellini
This cosy square is very lively at night. This is where a lot of youth gather during high season and where music is often played. During the day, you can visit it for the excavated remains of Roman city walls.
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1.2. Naples' Neighbourhoods

Belvedere San Martino
Vomero - This place offers an insane panorama view of the city of Naples. From here you can clearly see how the Spaccanapoli cuts the historic centre into 2 parts.
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Chiostri di San Martino
Vomero - This monastery carries with it a whole history, it was a refuge for the Carthusians who were oppressed. Later, it served as a war hospital for wounded soldiers before permanently serving as a museum.
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Castel Sant'Elmo
Vomero - This castle offers stunning views of the city and bay of Naples, from here you can even see Vesuvius and the Sorrento Peninsula. It also has a medieval atmosphere and houses a museum. You can reach Vomero via a long uphill walk or by funicolare montesanto tram and cable car.
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Ovo Castle
Santa Lucia - Castle del Ovo, translates egg castle, carries with it a remarkable history. Roman poet Virgil hid an egg in the castle's foundations; if the egg broke, the city would collapse completely into the sea. Apart from the history, its beautiful location in the sea and the interior are also worth visiting.
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Galleria Borbonica
Santa Lucia - These underground tunnels were built by King Charles of Bourbon, as an escape route if a civil uprising broke out. Today, the tunnels contain old motorbikes and cars and offer a journey through the city's unique underground history. Furthermore, you can also choose an adventurous tour where you will sail across water in fleets.
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Galleria Umberto I
San Ferdinando - This gallery of major fashion brands is very similar to Vittorio Emanuele in Milan. It consists of lots of gold wall decorations and is very chic.
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San Carlo Theatre
San Ferdinando - This theatre building is the sanctuary of Italian opera, its foundation dating back as far as 1737, there is a total of 184 lodges and 1379 seats. The interior is beautifully classic, red seats and lots of gold decoration.
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Piazza del Plebiscito
San Ferdinano - The royal square of Naples, which hosts the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace). The highlight is definitely the historical flats where you can discover all kinds of ancient treasures
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Castel Nuovo
San Ferdinando - This imposing castle is located on a small hill, giving you a great view. The exterior consists of five huge towers. Inside, you can visit the Hall of the Barons , the Hall of the Armoury and the palatine chapel.
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Murale Diego Armando Maradona - Quartieri Spagnoli
Quartieri Spagnoli - This beautiful mural shows how much Maradona means to Neapolitans. To a Neapolitan man, Maradona is holier than the Pope. NOTE: There are lot of articles which say Quartieri Spagnoli is dangerous, but we felt safe in almost all neighbourhoods around the centre, except in Forcella, try to avoid this one.
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Porto di Napoli
Porto - Napoli harbour is a nice and quiet place to relax for a while, have a drink on a terrace and eat at a restaurant. Boats also leave from here to the various islands.
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Diego Armando Maradona Stadium
Fuorigrotta - A short distance away from the city is Napoli's sacred temple, the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, is home to SC Napoli, the great love of Neapolitans. At the time we were in Naples, a tour around the stadium was not yet available but you could go and see Maradona's statue. It is also always a must to catch a game in the atmospheric stadium.
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Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
Capodimonte: Located in a beautiful and peaceful park, the museum mainly houses works of art by Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Bellini, Botticelli and others.
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2. Travelling through time

2.1. Caserta & Capua

Royal Palace of Caserta
We start at the year 1752. Part of the Unesco World Heritage Site and world's biggest palace, this magnificent palace is an absolute must-see in Campania. During our visit, we first explored the palace gardens, which are modelled on Versaillesand gave us a really relaxing vibe. It is a long, straight road that goes uphill all the time. After the hike we came at the beautiful Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, from here you can return or visit the English gardens. Part two of our visit to the palace was the interior, walk up the long stairs towards richly decorated rooms, with paintings, gold and other decorations. Don't forget to look at the ceilings, which all contain detailed paintings, truly fascinating.
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Aqueduct of Vanvitelli
Recommended when you are with a car or bike, at foot it's a bit too far from the station. The aqueduct was built to supply water to the palace, it is an impressively large structure.
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Complesso Monumentale Belvedere San Leucio
The complex consists of several parts, industrial archaeology, an old silk factory, a historic flat and the royal gardens. You will find machines from the industrial revolution, which were used in silk processing. In the apartment you will find Maria Carolina's famous Bath, dining room and bedroom. Finally, visit the weaver's house and gardens, which are spread over seven terraces.
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Anfiteatro Campano
We arrive at the ancient rome and explore the Anfiteatro Campano, which was the 2nd largest and most important of ancient Rome, the town of Capua is the starting place of Spartacus' world-famous slave revolt and was home to the most prestigious gladiatorial school in history. Today, a big part of the amphitheatre remains and you are allowed to walk in, under and beside it, a unique experience. HINT: Just before you enter the arena, you will come to a small souvenir shop, here you can buy tickets, which are also valid for the adjacent Gladiator Museum and slightly further Archaeological Museum. (We combined the Caserta palace with a visit to ancient Capua. We travelled by train from Naples to Caserta and took a short train to Capua San Vetere after visiting the palace. From San Vetere you can take a train back to Naples)
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Archaeological Museum of Ancient Capua
A small kilometer from the amfitheather is the Archeological Museum of Capua, here you will find all kind of objects that were found in and around the amfitheater. You will find statues, vases and weapons dating from both before and after Christ.
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2.2. Herculaneum & Vesuvius

Archaeological Park of Herculaneum
We stay at ancient Rome and more specifically the year 79. Herculaneum is one of the cities affected by the eruption of Vesuvius, it is much smaller and less known as Pompeii. It can be visited in about two hours. You will find excavations and ruins of houses and buildings. In some houses you can still see the frescoes. More than 300 skeletons were found at the siteand many of the original roofs have been preserved. HINT: From the top of the entrance, you have a nice view of the whole park.
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Mount Vesuvius
Vesuvius was the culprit of the havoc you can see at Pompeï and Herculaneum almost 2,000 years ago. The climb is about 3k one way, during the hike, you will get fantastic views of the Bay of Naples. Once you reach the top you will come to the huge crater, when we were there we saw steam coming out of it. Along the way and at the summit, you will come across souvenir shops. HINT: Since the bus to Vesuvius departs from Ercolano, it is ideal to combine the two. The bus will drop you off at the entrance to the Vesuvius climb and pick you up 2 hours later to go back to Ercolano.
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2.3. Pompeï

Archaeological Park of Pompeii
We are still in the year 79. Pompeii was definitely the highlight of our stay in Naples, it exceeded all our expectations. Extremely well-preserved buildings, frescoes in perfect condition and even orignal bodies from the disaster. Being on the road with my brother was a big advantage here, as it meant we always knew what each building was used for and the city can really feel like a big maze. We did spend a whopping eight hours in the park, but saw pretty much everything. (Don't recommend it, because we were both overtired) Most people spend about 4-5 hours in the park, at which time you can see the most important things, mark them at the map and do them first.
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Amphitheatre of Pompeii
This is the closest entrance to the station and so we choose the Amphiteatre as our starting point. It is impressively well preserved and gives a good view of what things were like in those days. There is also a smaller amphitheatre next door, where you can climb the stands up to the highest point, from which you have a nice view of the park and the mountains behind.
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Garden of the Fugitives
In this place, you can clearly see the horror brought about by Vesuvius, you can see the bodies of men, women and children preserved by lava, it is a place where you become very quiet.
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Foro di Pompei
Pompeii's forum was perhaps the city's most important site, housing the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, Temple of Apollo, Temple of the Lares Publici, the Marcellum and Roman Baths. Besides all the highlights, one of the most incredible things is standing at the forum and seeing Mount Vesuvius on the background. You can see Mount Vesuvius from other places aswell.
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Villa dei Misteri
This was the highlight of Pompeii for me, this Villa is so well preserved, it is almost unbelievable that a volcanic eruption took place here, the famous frescoes are intact and even in the floors you can still see patterns. We were very lucky to be able to see the Villa dei Misteri just in time, as it closes earlier than the park and the people who arrived after us couldn't enter anymore. HINT: If you are under 25, take a Pompeï+ ticket, it's the same price and you get to see Villa dei Misteri with it, without Pompeï+ you can't enter it.
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2.4. Paestum

Archaeological Park of Paestum
In Paestum we enter the Greek era, with temples that are over 2500 years old, Paestum was undoubtedly the biggest surprise of our trip. We only added it to the schedule last-minute, but it turned out to be one of the absolute highlights. The beautiful green surroundings with a mountain range surrounding it gave very nice and relaxing views. It was also very peaceful and we saw archaeologists at work, which made it a unique experience. The highlights of the park are undoubtedly the 3 very well-preserved temples, two of which you can enter. There are also many ruins and a nice amphitheatre.
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Trip Highlight
Temple of Hera in Paestum
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Museo Archeologico di Paestum
As we were very tight with our train, we went through the museum quickly. There are some beautifully preserved Greek vases, statues and weapons. The highlight is undoubtedly the famous Tomb of the Diver, which you will find at the back of the museum, after a long corridor. Furthermore, we were also impressed by the room decorated with authentic frescoes.
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2.5. Campi Flegrei

Phlegraean Fields
Campi Flegrei means Burning Fields, these are locations located on a volcanic peninsula. The Campi Flegrei therefore consists of a tour of archaeological and volcanic sites in this area. They all go back to ancient Rome. NOTE: You can buy a ticket online which include Anfiteatro Pozzuoli, Terme di Baia, Museo Archeologico di Baia and Cumae.
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Anfiteatro Flavio Neroniano
The Flavian amphitheatre was the 3rd largest in Italy. It was built in the 1st century and has remained in amazingly good condition; among other things, Saint Januarius was executed there and part of the amphitheatre was buried under a lava layer. Normally you can go in, under and on the stands, unfortunately on our visit hte was partly under construction and only the catacombs could be visited. NOTE: You can reach Pozzuoli by metro.
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Macellum Temple of Serapis
Long thought to be a temple dedicated to the Egyptian god Serapis, it eventually turned out to be an ancient Roman fish market. You can view the excavations from above but cannot enter the site, from the marcellum it is just a 3-minute walk to the port.
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Porto di Pozzuoli
Near the Marcellum is the port of Pozzuoli, an absolute gem in Campania, with a very relaxed atmosphere. Ideal to rest out a bit after visiting the Amphiteater and Marcellum. The town is colourful and cosy, in the harbour you can see small fishing boats and luxury yachts.
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Rione Terra - Archaeological Path
Rione Terra was the former Roman colony of Puteoli, it was surrounded on three sides by the sea and therefore difficult to reach. Beneath the current buildings lies an archaeological hidden gem. From going underground, you go back in time 2,000 years, walking through characteristic Roman streets in the well-preserved settlement and still finding shops, bakeries and storehouses.
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Parco archeologico delle Terme di Baia
Terme di Baia is a beautiful and peaceful archaeological park, the biggest attraction is the view of the Tyrrhenian Sea with all the ruins in front of you. Baia was an important place in ancient Rome, where wealthy Romans came here on holiday to relax in the thermal baths, which you can also easily recognise in the fairly well-preserved ruins. HINT: Wait at the amphitheatre in Pozzuoli and board the bus that stops there, ask first if it definitely does go to Baia.
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Underwater Archaeological Park of Baia
This is a unique experience, while snorkelling or diving you will discover an underwater buried city, it was a bustling Roman place known as a country residence of wealthy Romans, as early as 178 BC there were thermal baths here, furthermore this is the place where Nero had his mother Agrippina killed. In the 5th century, the city was hit by a series of earthquakes and sank into the sea. Today you can visit this city underwater, you can still see floors, statues and ruins. NOTE: For this, you have to book a snorkelling or diving excursion, you are not allowed to explore the area on your own initiative.
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Castello Aragonese di Baia
This castle, built in the 15th century is located on a hill in Baia, giving nice views of the surroundings. The fortress originally served as a defence, but is now used as an archaeological museum, housing all kinds of unique finds from the Campi Flegrei.
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Cuma Archaeological Park
The archaeological park of Cuma has an idyllic location atop a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. The first civilisation on Cuma were the Greeks in 750 BC. The upper part of the city is open for visits, you will find traces and ruins of the ancient Acropolis. You will also find the place where, according to legend, the Sibyl of Cuma revealed her oracles and remains of the temple of Apollo and Jupiter. On special occasions, the lower part is also open for visits; you will find remains of the ancient forum, baths, crypts and the necropolis. HINT: You can reach Cuma with the train from Pozzuoli or with the bus from Baia. The bus stop in Baia is hard to find and from the train station it is still a long walk so hiring a taxi is more recommended.
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Monte Nuovo volcano Nature Park
Located in Pozzuoli, Monte Nuovo is today a volcanic nature reserve. It was created after the eruption of a volcanic cone is therefore a geological wonder. The trails take you to breathtaking views, rich fauna and flora and a large strange pit that is the crater of the volcano.
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Solfatara
To visit the area of the volcano you walk up along a steep road, the starting point is at a campsite, at the reception you can buy a ticket, it starts with a neat path but continues in a trek over paths with mud and loose stones. Periodically you see some gases squirting out of the ground, a unique experience. The crater is the highlight, there is a boiling mud pool, a kind of temple with multicoloured crystals and sulphur springs. Solfatara is less popular than other attraction and I would only do it if you have a lot of time in Naples. NOTE: This is an active volcano that emits gases that can be harmful, always be careful and don't go off the trails. HINT: You can reach this volcano by train (Pozzuoli Solfatara station)
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Lake Avernus
Lake Avernus had an important role in ancient Rome, they believed it was the gateway to the underworld. Later, it was converted into a naval base. Today, it is a beautiful place to walk around in an idyllic green landscape of farmland and hills.
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3. Islands

3.1. Capri

Capri
Capri is without doubt the most famous island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, it has been an important place since Roman times. In these times, it was mainly known as a holiday resort for the wealthy Roman, and Emperors Augustus and Tiberius stayed here for extended periods. Besides a rich history, Capri also has some sights to offer, which you can find below. HINT: You can visit Capri from Naples with a retour boat trip, which will cost €50 in total.
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Blue Grotto
The most popular sight in Capri is undoubtedly the blue grotto, you can only reach it by boat, you can reach em via a tour from Naples or from island of Capri. The boats sail into the cave which is a unique experience, the view you have of the sea from the cave is beautiful and the clear blue water creates a unique atmosphere.
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Marina Piccola Beach
The most famous beach on Capri and perhaps the most beautiful too.
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Faraglioni
Wonderful view at the famous Faraglioni rocks.
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Belvedere di Punta Cannone
From here it's an impressive view of the Tyrrhenian Sea, with luxury yachts and many rocks.
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Villa Lysis
This luxury villa is it located in a charming spot, thanks to its beautiful gardens with fantastic panoramic sea views. The interior with marble decor is also stunning. But perhaps most iconic is the entrance with long staircase leading to ionic columns overlooking the sea.
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3.2. Procida

Procida
Procida is a beautifully colourful island in the Bay of Naples, it is best known for its charming harbour where you can spot plenty of colourful fishing boats. The colourful houses contrasting with the Mediterranean landscape and clear blue sea make Procida the ideal place to relax and enjoy this beautiful island. Procida also has a lot of culture and sights to offer, listed below the most important ones.
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Marina di Corricella
Procida's wonderfully colourful harbour has a uniquely Italian atmosphere, where you can completely unwind and enjoy wonderful views.
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Belvedere Terra Murata
Terra Murata is the historical and cultural centre of the island and also the highest point. The is tiring but definitely worth it as at the top you will be rewarded with breathtaking views.
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Palazzo d'Avalos
After resting and enjoying the wonderful views, a visit to Palazzo d'Avalos can not to be missed. After resting and enjoying the wonderful views, a visit to Avalos Castle is not to be missed. It is a medieval castle that later served as a royal palace and prison. HINT: Close to the castle you will find an admiring tufa house and the beautiful abbey of San Michele.
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3.3. Ischia

Ischia
Ischia is a volcanic island, it is also the largest island in the Bay of Naples. The former volcano is home to 6 municipalities of Ischia, Barano, Serrara Fontana, Forio, Lacco Ameno and Casamicciola. Today, Ischia is no longer a volcano, but you can still find traces of the former volcano, today the island is known as Isola Verde, because it is very green all year round with beautiful wooded surroundings. Furthermore, it is known for its beautiful churches, colourful houses and cosy harbours.
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Aragonese Castle
The castle is the island's most famous image, it is often the one you find when looking up Ischia. The castle is connected to the island of Ischia by a long promenade. Throughout history, it fell into disrepair but was bought up by a family who restored it and continued to restore it generation after generation so that today it is open for visits. Be sure to stroll around the beautiful castle that breathes history.
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Torre Guevara
Perched along the coast of Ischia, Torre Guevara is a stunning blend of history and natural beauty. This 15th-century watchtower, built to defend the island against pirate raids, offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Ischia's lush landscapes. Today, it serves as a cultural hub, hosting art exhibits and events that draw inspiration from its historic charm. Stroll along its picturesque surroundings, where the turquoise waters meet the rugged coastline, creating an unforgettable scene perfect for photography or quiet reflection.
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Mount Epomeo
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Epomeo, Ischia's highest peak at 789 metres. This hike offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, history and breathtaking views. The trail winds through lush forests, volcanic rock formations and serene landscapes. At the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views over the Bay of Naples, Capri and the Amalfi Coast
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Extra: Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast
I put Amalfi Coast as an extra because it is actually worth doing a road trip there for 10 days or longer and I'm definitely planning to do so some day. This coast is absolutely worth the hype, beautiful sea views, cosy villages, lovely beaches and wonderful hikes. Furthermore, here you will find the best lemons and limoncello you have ever tasted. We personally only visited Positano, a beautiful village set against a cliff. The houses are all one above the other and the streets are very narrow and steep uphill, a unique experience to walk around here. Furthermore, you have beautiful sea views everywhere and the views of the village from Spiaggia Grande and Positano Sponda are insane. Almost all restaurants offer sea views. Downside Positano can be a bit expensive. NOTE: Amalfi Coast is a bit harder to reach, from Naples you have to take a train to Sorrento, there you can take a bus to Positano and Amalfi, from Amalfi you can go to all the other towns aswell.
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Accomodation

Materdays 24
We stayed here, it was a very good and friendly host, room was very clean, and everything was perfectly prepared for stay. The only reason why we would not stay here again afterwards is because it is a long walk to the city centre and the railway station. To the central station, it is more than 3k, but if you don't mind walking a while, than this is the place to be.
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B&B HOTEL Napoli
We didn't stay here but I heard very positive things about it from people I met during the trip. The big advantage is that it is very close to the central station and city centre, so you save a lot of time.
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Culinary Tips

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Got this pizzeria recommended by an Italian friend, so the expectations were quite high but they were far exceeded, this was the best Pizza Margherita I ever ate and you barely pay €6. NOTE: The only downside is that you have to wait a long time outside before you can enter because they don't have many seats and they only have 3 varieties.
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Pizzeria Del Popolo
Very large and good pizza for barely €5, you eat here among the locals which makes it a unique experience, you almost only hear Italian around you.
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Starita
This pizzeria was close to our stay in the Materdei district, it is considered one of the best Pizzerias in Naples, we did not go there during our trip because it was very crowded each time.
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Sfogliate e Sfogliatelle
This bakery was also recommended by my Italian friend for trying Sfogliatelle, a Neapolitan speciality. It was much better than the Baba we tasted the day before, Sfogliatelle is sweet and crunchy, an ideal snack.
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Pizzeria Ò RE rà Pizza POZZUOLI ,Monteruscello
If you are in Pozzuoli there is a great pizzeria near the amphiteatre, you can actually see them baking the pizzas in the big oven and they don't fail to put on a show. Besides, the pizzas were also very good.
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Scugnizzo Pizzeria Trattoria
This pizzeria was close to the central station, the pizza marinara was incredibly good and even my brother's all time favourite.
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