Naples Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel Advice
Is Naples a good travel destination?
Yes, many travelers highly recommend it for its history, art, culture, and food. It’s often described as an incredible city with warm and welcoming people.
Is Naples safe for tourists?
Generally, yes, but be aware. It’s a chaotic city with a reputation for being “rougher” than other Italian cities, but violent crime is low. The main concern is pickpocketing.
What are common safety tips for Naples?
Don’t flaunt valuables. Keep your phone and wallet secure. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid engaging with overly friendly strangers at tourist sites.
Are there areas to avoid?
The areas that are considered “truly bad” are well into the outskirts and not places a tourist would typically wander into by accident. The historic center can be chaotic but is generally safe.
How do I avoid tourist traps?
Look for restaurants with menus in 47 languages and pictures of the food. If someone is trying to pressure you to come in, it’s likely a tourist trap. Find places where locals are eating.
What’s the overall vibe of Naples?
Chaotic, loud, and full of life. It can be overwhelming at first but many visitors find it charming and authentic.
Is Naples dirty?
Some travelers mention a lot of garbage and graffiti, which can make the city look rundown. This is a common observation, but it doesn’t detract from the city’s appeal for many.
What’s a good amount of time to spend in Naples?
Many suggest dedicating at least 3-4 days to the city itself, and more if you plan on taking day trips. Don’t try to rush everything.
Getting Around
How do I get from the airport to the city center?
The Alibus shuttle bus is a popular, affordable option (€5). It goes directly to the train station (Napoli Centrale) and the port. Taxis have a fixed fare to the city center, around €15.
Is public transportation reliable?
The metro (subway) is generally considered efficient and fast. Buses, however, are notoriously unreliable. The timetables are often described as “pure fantasy.” Use the metro and funiculars when you can.
Are the “art stations” of the metro worth seeing?
Yes, travelers often mention that the Line 1 metro stations, particularly Toledo, are beautiful and worth a visit.
Is it easy to walk around Naples?
Walking is the best way to see the historic center. However, traffic can be dangerous, and scooters often don’t respect pedestrian crosswalks or red lights.
Is it safe to use taxis?
Yes, but make sure you get into a licensed taxi from an official queue. There is a fixed fare system to avoid being ripped off. Don’t use unofficial drivers who approach you.
Is Uber available?
Some travelers mention that ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available or reliable. Taxis are the main option for car travel.
What’s the best way to get to Pompeii?
The Circumvesuviana train is the most common and budget-friendly option. It is advised to be cautious of pickpockets on this line.
Food & Drink
What food is a “must-eat” in Naples besides pizza?
Sfogliatella: A shell-shaped pastry with two variants, riccia and frolla.
Pastiera: A classic Neapolitan pie.
Fried pizza (pizza fritta): A delicious variation on the classic.
Cuoppo di Frittura: A paper cone of fried goodies, often including frittatina di pasta.
Cuzzetiello: A bread bowl filled with ragu or other sauces.
Baba: A rum-soaked sponge cake.
Graffa: A type of fried donut.
Where can I get the best pizza?
This is highly debated, but popular recommendations include:
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (famous from Eat, Pray, Love but can have long waits)
Pizzeria Starita a Materdei
Gino e Toto Sorbillo
50 Kalò
Pizzeria Di Matteo
Diego Vitagliano
Pizzeria La Notizia
Pizzeria Pellone
Brandi
Are there any “hidden gem” pizza places?
Pizzeria Del Popolo in Piazza Mercato and Franco Gallifuoco Pizzeria near Piazza Garibaldi are mentioned as great, less touristy options.
What about gelato?
Casa Infante, Il Gelatiere, and Gay-Odin are highly recommended. Gay-Odin is also a famous chocolate shop.
Is it true you shouldn’t get cappuccino with pizza?
Yes, a traveler who is a local tour leader says, “no cappuccino with pizza.” Coffee is typically a morning thing.
Where can I find a good sandwich?
Pan e Muzzarell and Con Mollica o Senza are popular. Many locals recommend simply going to any salumeria for a fresh, cheap panino.
Attractions & Activities
What are the absolute must-see sights in Naples?
The Veiled Christ (in Cappella Sansevero)
Naples National Archaeological Museum (MANN)
The historic center (Spaccanapoli)
The Spanish Quarters (Quartieri Spagnoli)
Castel dell’Ovo
Castel Sant’Elmo (for panoramic views)
Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea)
Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Veiled Christ?
Yes, this is crucial. Tickets often sell out months in advance, and you cannot buy them at the door.
Are there other underground tours?
Yes, many. Galleria Borbonica is another popular one, offering a different look at the city’s tunnels and history.
Is it worth visiting the Spanish Quarters?
Yes, it’s considered a must-do to see how locals live. travelers recommend walking through the narrow streets, seeing the Maradona shrines, and observing daily life.
What about the churches?
Chiostro di Santa Chiara (known for its beautiful majolica tiles) and Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo are highly recommended.
Are there good places to go for views?
The Terrace of Castel Sant’Elmo and Parco Virgiliano are great spots for panoramic views of the bay and Vesuvius.
What are some less-known attractions?
La Gaiola (a marine protected area), the Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden), and the train museum in Pietrarsa are mentioned as hidden gems.
Day Trips
Should I do Pompeii and Herculaneum on the same day?
A local tour leader strongly advises against this. Pompeii is a massive site and should have a full day dedicated to it. Herculaneum is smaller but better preserved, and also deserves its own time.
Is the Blue Grotto in Capri worth it?
Opinions are mixed. Some find it a beautiful experience, while others consider it a “bit of a scam.” Waits can be long (30-90 minutes), the time inside is very short (2-3 minutes), and you cannot swim. It may be less crowded in the afternoon.
What are the best day trips from Naples?
Pompeii and Herculaneum
Mount Vesuvius
The islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida
The Amalfi Coast (Positano, Amalfi)
Sorrento
The Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)
Amalfi Coast: By land or by sea?
Many travelers suggest taking a ferry or a boat tour, as the experience from the sea is “a thousand times better than being in a crowd of day-trippers.”
Is it possible to hike the Path of the Gods on a day trip?
Yes, some travelers have done it. It’s a long day, but it’s considered one of the best things to do in the region.
Which island is best for a day trip?
Capri is very popular but also very crowded and expensive. Ischia is a great alternative. Procida is praised for its picturesque, colorful houses and relaxed, “Cinque Terre” vibe.
Is the Royal Palace of Caserta worth visiting?
Yes, some travelers claim it’s “much better than Versailles.”
Practicalities
When is the best time to visit?
Travelers recommend May, September, April, and March, in that order. The summer months (June-August) are often described as “too hot to walk around.”
Do I need to carry cash?
While cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases, especially at local vendors or for public transport tickets from newsstands.
Where should I stay?
The historic center is a popular choice for easy access to sights. Vomero and Chiaia are also mentioned as elegant and more relaxed neighborhoods.
Is it better to stay in Naples or a different city like Sorrento?
This depends on your goals. Naples is a fantastic base for day trips but is a vibrant, chaotic city. Staying in Sorrento or on the Amalfi Coast is more for a relaxing, scenic experience, but travel times for sights like Pompeii might be longer.
How do I deal with the heat in the summer?
Stay hydrated, plan to rest during the hottest parts of the day, and consider sightseeing in the mornings and evenings.
Is the language a barrier?
Many people in the tourist areas speak English, but learning a few basic Italian phrases is always appreciated by locals.
Are there good tours to take?
Travelers often recommend food tours to get a local perspective on Neapolitan cuisine. Guided tours of archaeological sites can also be very helpful.
Is the Napoli Sotterranea tour worth it?
Yes, but the experience can vary depending on the guide. It’s an interesting historical and archaeological experience.
What are the most famous Neapolitan sweets?
Sfogliatella, Baba, Pastiera, and the chocolate from Gay-Odin are the most frequently mentioned.
What’s a “cuzzetiello”?
A traveler describes it as the hollowed-out end of a loaf of bread, traditionally filled with a hearty Neapolitan ragu.
Miscellaneous
What’s the best way to get a pizza without a huge wait?
Some popular places, like Da Michele, have long lines. You can try a different, slightly less famous spot, or get a takeaway pizza (pizza da asporto).
Is a pizza “to go” (takeaway) common?
Yes, it’s very common, especially at popular spots.
How do I get to the Amalfi Coast?
You can take a train to Sorrento and then a bus or ferry. A more scenic option is the ferry directly from Naples.
What’s a popular drink in Naples?
Limonata a cosce aperte is a local lemonade drink recommended by one traveler. Spritz is also popular.
Are there any good museums besides the Archaeological Museum?
The Museo di Capodimonte is highly recommended for its art collection. The San Gennaro’s treasure museum is also mentioned.
What’s a good alternative to the Amalfi Coast?
The island of Procida is often suggested for its charm and less-crowded atmosphere.
Are there good places for a quick bite?
Yes, the historic center is full of places offering fried snacks (cuoppo) and sandwiches.
What is the “Cimitero delle Fontanelle”?
An ossuary and unique cultural site where locals cared for anonymous skulls. It’s a “must-see” for some, but not for others.
What about the “underground city”?
There are different tours. One is the ancient Roman city of Neapolis, and another is the tunnels used as a bombshell shelter during WWII.
Is it worth staying in the Quartieri Spagnoli?
Many love it for its authentic vibe, but it can be loud and chaotic. Some people are anxious about the neighborhood’s reputation, but travelers say they felt safe.
What is the “Cammino degli Dei”?
It’s the “Path of the Gods,” a famous hiking trail on the Amalfi Coast.
Can you recommend a food tour?
Many generic food tours exist, but a local traveler suggests finding one that lets a local show you the non-touristy dishes.
What are some good places for panoramic views of the city?
Castel Sant’Elmo, Parco Virgiliano, and the ascensore monte echia (a lift to an amazing viewpoint).
Is it worth going to Pompeii with a guide?
Yes, a guide can help you navigate the massive site and understand the history better.
Is driving in Naples a good idea?
No. travelers universally advise against renting a car. The traffic is insane, and the city is not bike-friendly.
Is the train to Sorrento safe?
The Circumvesuviana train is known for being a common spot for pickpockets. You should be extra vigilant with your belongings.
What’s a typical Neapolitan breakfast?
A coffee or cappuccino and a pastry, such as a sfogliatella or a cornetto.
What’s a good place for coffee?
The famous Gran Caffè Gambrinus is a historic spot for coffee and people-watching.
Are there good places to eat seafood?
Yes, fresh seafood is a staple. A traveler recommends Transatlantico near Castel dell’Ovo.
Is there a good place to see the sunset?
The Lungomare Caracciolo, a waterfront promenade, is a great spot for a walk and watching the sunset.
What about the Duomo?
The Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta (Naples Cathedral) is a major religious and historical site, home to the treasure of San Gennaro.
Is it worth visiting Herculaneum if I’m already going to Pompeii?
Yes, Herculaneum is smaller but much better preserved. It gives a different perspective on the Vesuvius eruption.
Are there any gardens or parks in Naples?
Yes, Bosco di Capodimonte, La Floridiana, and Parco Virgiliano are mentioned.
What’s the atmosphere like in Piazza Bellini at night?
It’s a vibrant area with restaurants, bars, and a lively atmosphere, often with live music.
Should I tip in Naples?
Tipping isn’t as common as in the US, but a small tip for good service is appreciated.
What’s the “real” best pizza?
There is no single answer. travelers argue endlessly about this, but most agree that you can’t go wrong with pizza in Naples.
What’s the deal with the “L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele” hype?
It’s world-famous for its simple, traditional pizza. Some travelers say it’s overrated and not worth the wait, while others say it lives up to the hype.
Is Naples a good base for a trip to the Amalfi Coast?
Yes, it’s a popular choice for tourists who want to combine a city break with day trips to the coast and archaeological sites.
What’s the train station like?
Napoli Centrale is a major hub, but like other busy train stations, it’s a good place to be on guard for pickpockets.
What’s a “frittatina di pasta”?
A deep-fried ball of pasta, often with béchamel and cheese, a popular Neapolitan street food.
What’s the nightlife like?
The city is full of life at night, with many people out for dinner and drinks. Areas like Piazza Bellini and the historic center are lively.
Is Naples a good place for a solo female traveler?
Opinions vary, but many solo female travelers have reported feeling safe. They emphasize the importance of street smarts and being aware of your surroundings, just like in any major city.
What are the “Decumani”?
They are the three main ancient streets that form the historic center of Naples. Spaccanapoli is the most famous one.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb?
Travelers don’t have a strong consensus. Hotels offer convenience, while Airbnbs can provide a more local experience.
What’s the best time of day to visit Pompeii?
Early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and largest crowds.
What’s the best way to get from Naples to Rome?
The high-speed train is fast, efficient, and frequent.
Is it worth taking a guided tour of Underground Naples?
Yes, a guide is necessary to access the underground network and provides crucial context.
What is the “Cristo Velato”?
The Veiled Christ is a famous marble sculpture of Christ covered by a marble veil, celebrated for its incredible detail.
What’s the difference between a “pizza margherita” and a “pizza marinara”?
A margherita has tomato, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. A marinara has tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, but no cheese.
What’s a “taralli”?
A crunchy, savory snack, often sold in bags at bakeries and street stalls.
Is the metro easy to use for a tourist?
Yes, it’s generally well-marked and easy to navigate. The stations are also often a destination in themselves.
What’s the best souvenir to buy in Naples?
Something related to San Gennaro, a figurine from Via San Gregorio Armeno, or local sweets like sfogliatelle.
What about the “San Gregorio Armeno” street?
It’s a famous street known for its artisan workshops and nativity scene figurines, a popular spot especially around Christmas.
What’s the deal with the Camorra?
The Camorra is the local mafia. While it’s a part of the city’s history, travelers say it doesn’t affect the day-to-day safety of tourists in the main travel areas.
Can I visit the Amalfi Coast without a car?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to use public transport, ferries, or tours. The roads are narrow, and parking is a nightmare.
What’s a good place for an elegant walk?
A walk from Piazza Trento to Piazza del Plebiscito, then along the Lungomare Caracciolo up to Mergellina.
Are there good places to eat pasta that isn’t seafood?
Yes, many restaurants offer a variety of pasta dishes. Look for places recommended by locals.
What is the “Piazza del Plebiscito”?
The main public square in Naples, home to the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.
Is it possible to visit both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in one day?
It’s a tight schedule, but possible with a tour or careful planning.
Are there good options for vegetarians?
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Pizza is a great option.
What’s the deal with the “cappuccino with pizza” thing?
It’s a cultural faux pas, like drinking a latte after noon in Italy. You just don’t do it.
Can you recommend a place for “fried pizza”?
La Masardona and Esterina Sorbillo are frequently mentioned.
Is it easy to get lost in Naples?
The historic center’s narrow, winding streets can be confusing. It’s part of the experience, but having a map or a good GPS is helpful.
Is Naples a cheap city to visit?
It’s generally considered more affordable than major northern Italian cities like Rome, Florence, or Venice.
What’s the most common regret from travelers’ trips to Naples?
Not staying long enough and trying to cram too many sights into a single day. The advice is to slow down and enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere.