Naples is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. That’s why we’ve put together a guide for what to do in Naples in 3 days. Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
Naples’ historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. It’s a maze of narrow streets and alleys, lined with beautiful churches, palaces, and piazzas. Start your day at Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples. Here, you’ll find the Royal Palace of Naples and the Church of San Francesco di Paola, two stunning examples of neoclassical architecture.
From there, make your way to Spaccanapoli, the main street that cuts through the historic center. This street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Naples. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Cathedral of Naples, one of the most important churches in the city.
After lunch, head to the National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums in Italy. Here, you’ll find a vast collection of ancient art and artifacts, including the Farnese Hercules and the Alexander Mosaic. It’s a great way to learn about the history of Naples and the surrounding area.
Day 2: Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum
No trip to Naples would be complete without a visit to Pompeii and Herculaneum. These two ancient Roman cities were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and their ruins are some of the most impressive in the world. Start your day early and take the train from Naples to Pompeii. Once there, hire a guide or rent an audio guide to explore the ruins.
After lunch, head to Herculaneum, a smaller but equally impressive site. Here, you’ll find well-preserved buildings and frescoes, as well as a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of ancient Romans.
Day 3: Taste the Local Cuisine
Naples is known for its delicious food, and no trip would be complete without sampling some of the local specialties. Start your day with a traditional Neapolitan breakfast of espresso and sfogliatelle, a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta cheese and candied fruit.
For lunch, head to one of Naples’ many pizzerias. Pizza was invented in Naples, and the city is known for its delicious, wood-fired pies. Try a classic Margherita pizza, topped with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil.
In the evening, head to the Quartieri Spagnoli, a vibrant neighborhood known for its street food. Here, you can sample everything from fried pizza to arancini, rice balls stuffed with cheese and meat.
Conclusion
Naples is a city full of surprises, with something new to discover around every corner. By following our guide, you’ll be able to see the best of the city in just 3 days. From the historic center to Pompeii and Herculaneum to the local cuisine, Naples is a city that will leave you wanting more.
