Best Things to Do in Naples: 5 Must-Try Activities
Best Things to Do in Naples: 5 Must-Try Activities
Naples is a year-round destination with its historical charm, architecture, cuisine, and stunning vistas. The city captivates travelers from all around the world with its enchanting streets and historic center, making it a must-visit destination on travel itineraries. Known for its rich culinary culture, Naples is a food lover’s paradise. For an unforgettable local experience and a glimpse into Italian life, here are some must-try activities in Naples…
1. Exploring Naples’ Historical Center
What makes the historic center of Naples special for travelers?
While Naples is home to numerous museums, its narrow streets and architecture also offer a captivating view. Naples, founded as Neapolis by the Greeks, boasts a rich history dating back to pre-Christian times, including the rule of the Roman Empire and the Kingdom of Naples. To explore the city’s history, your first stop should be the historic city center: Centro Storico. With its architecture still bearing the traces of the Baroque period, churches famous for their stories, the San Martino Obelisk, and streets that have hosted artists throughout history, Centro Storico is an ideal starting point for your journey. Moreover, Centro Storico is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Naples is an ideal destination for exploring religious art, thanks to its historical sites and artistic treasures. One of the historical religious structures located in the city center is the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore. Built in the Baroque style, this basilica houses works that reflect the city’s history and examples of artistic expression. In the city, you can also discover the Sansevero Chapel, the Cathedral of San Gennaro, the Church of Naples San Domenico Maggiore, and many other religious buildings. To explore the city’s current cultural landscape and experience its vibrant urban life, spending time in Piazza del Plebiscito square is highly recommended. Discovering the city’s contemporary art scene in theaters and opera venues can also be a great choice for your journey.
2. Tasting Neapolitan Pizza
Why is Neapolitan pizza famous?
Naples is not only renowned for its history and artworks but also for being one of the cities where some of Italy’s most important dishes originated. Neapolitan pizza, named after the city, itself, is a significant culinary highlight in this gastronomic city. The harmony created by the combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is recognized worldwide as Neapolitan pizza. In 1889, it was dedicated to Queen Margherita of Italy, who visited Naples. After the Queen expressed her approval, it began to be known as Margherita pizza in addition to Neapolitan pizza.
What are the best pizzerias to try in Naples?
A vital part of the city, Neapolitan pizza should find its place on your list of must-try dishes during your Naples journey. Of course, Naples is not only where Neapolitan pizza hails from but also where you can find the best of the best. To make it easier for you, let’s talk about some places where you can savor the finest Neapolitan pizza in the city. Here are some places you can consider for Naples food tasting and trying Neapolitan pizza:
- L’antica Pizzeria da Michele Forcella
- Pizzeria Fratelli Cafasso
- Concettina ai Tre Santi
- Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba
- 50 Kalò
- Pizzeria Starita a Materdei
3. Visiting the Naples National Archaeological Museum
What Treasures Does the Museum Hold?
Built as a military barracks in the 16th century, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples was transformed into a museum in the 19th century after undergoing restoration. It houses significant artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. For those seeking a genuine cultural experience in Naples, this museum offers some of its most prized possessions, including pieces rescued from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Other notable pieces in the museum’s collection include The Farnese Hercules, The Gabinetto Segreto, and The Battle of Alexander against Darius Mosaic.
Why is it a Must-Visit?
Naples boasts a rich and expansive history. To fully comprehend the events that have unfolded over the centuries, appreciate the legacies left behind by various cultures, and gain insight into the unique culture of each era, add a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples with an expert guide to your must-do list is highly recommended.
4. Strolling Along the Seafront Promenade
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Naples, located on the shores of the Mediterranean, is the variety of activities you can indulge in by the sea. You can spend a relaxing period of your trip by the seaside, enjoying a unique view.
What Activities Can You Enjoy Along the Promenade?
The promenade stretches along the city’s waterfront areas, where you can bike or take a leisurely stroll. You can also savor seafood delights by choosing the seaside restaurants. For a more immersive experience, consider joining small-group or private guided walking tours, where an expert guide and private vehicle can enhance your exploration. In this part of Naples, you can also encounter religious buildings like the Santa Maria di Piedigrotta Church and San Antonio Church.
5. Day Trip to Pompeii
Why should travelers consider a day trip to Pompeii?
One of the most enigmatic historical events tied to the city is the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. In its prime, Pompeii stood as a highly advanced and significant city within the Roman Empire. After the devastating eruption of 78 AD, the entire population of Pompeii was petrified, and their preserved remains can still be viewed at both the National Archaeological Museum of Naples and in Pompeii itself. To unveil the city’s mystery and deeply explore its architecture, consider dedicating a day of your Naples journey to the Best of Pompeii Small Group Guided Tour with Tickets. To get to know the people who lived in Pompeii before the eruption, you can visit the ancient city. Here, you’ll come across numerous details that depict the social structure and entertainment culture of that era. Moreover, the functional layout of the city according to the year 78 AD is quite intriguing.