Naples, the third-largest city in Italy, is a place where history, art, and culture coexist with a vibrant street life and a stunning natural beauty. The city is located in the Campania region, famous for its delicious food, wine, and sunny beaches. If you’re planning to visit Naples, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top attractions and activities in the city.
Explore the Historic Center
The historic center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its narrow streets, baroque architecture, and ancient ruins. Start your tour at Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples, where you can admire the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Then, head to Spaccanapoli, a long street that divides the city in two and is lined with shops, restaurants, and churches. Along the way, visit the Naples Cathedral, the San Lorenzo Maggiore complex, and the underground ruins of the ancient Greek city of Neapolis.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum
Located in the heart of Naples, the National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Italy, with a vast collection of artifacts from the Roman, Greek, and Etruscan civilizations. Here, you can admire the famous Farnese Bull, the Alexander Mosaic, and the Secret Cabinet, a collection of erotic art from ancient Rome.
Try the Local Cuisine
Naples is famous for its delicious food, from pizza to seafood to pasta dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include the classic Margherita pizza, the fried pizza, the spaghetti alle vongole, and the babà , a sweet dessert soaked in rum. You can find great restaurants and street food vendors all over the city, but some of the best places to eat are in the Quartieri Spagnoli and the Mercato di Porta Nolana.
Enjoy the Natural Beauty
Naples is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from the Vesuvius volcano to the blue waters of the Gulf of Naples. Here are two ways to experience the outdoors in Naples:
Visit the Royal Palace of Caserta
Located just outside Naples, the Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent 18th-century palace and gardens, built by the Bourbon kings of Naples. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning rooms, frescoes, and a grand staircase. The gardens, designed in the style of Versailles, cover an area of over 120 hectares and feature fountains, sculptures, and a waterfall.
Take a Boat Tour of the Gulf of Naples
One of the best ways to see Naples from a different perspective is to take a boat tour of the Gulf of Naples. From the water, you can admire the city skyline, the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the imposing volcano of Vesuvius. You can choose from different types of tours, from a short ride to a full-day excursion.
In conclusion, Naples is a city full of surprises and hidden gems, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, you’ll find something to do and see in Naples. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the capital of Campania.
