The great Sophia Loren once said, “I'd rather eat pasta and drink wine than be a size 0”. So if you're into delicious food, wine, art, architecture, and sunny weather, then it's time to book a city break to Naples, Italy. The city is brimming with unique world heritage sights, so here’s a packed three-day itinerary that includes the city’s best museums, gardens, beaches, and Instagram-worthy spots (btw, check out my reel):
Day 1: Explore the City & Cultural Landmarks
Morning:
Spaccanapoli Street. Begin your day with a stroll down Spaccanapoli, the narrow, vibrant street that cuts through the heart of Naples’ historic center. The street is full of local shops, cafes, and churches like the Church of Santa Chiara.
Instagram Spot: The colorful alleyways and lively atmosphere create great street photography.
Naples National Archaeological Museum. Visit one of the world’s most important archaeological museums, housing a collection of Roman artifacts, including treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Piazza del Plebiscito. Head over to this grand square surrounded by iconic buildings like the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. It's a perfect spot for photos.
Lunch: Grab an authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Da Michele, one of Naples’ most famous pizzerias.
Afternoon:
Castel dell’Ovo. Walk along the seafront to visit this ancient fortress on the Gulf of Naples, offering panoramic views of the city and Mount Vesuvius.
Instagram Spot: The castle’s terrace provides a perfect bay view.
Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea). Explore the city's fascinating underground tunnels, aqueducts, and ancient ruins. It's a journey back in time.
Evening:
Sunset at Posillipo Hill. Head to the Posillipo neighborhood for a stunning sunset view over the Bay of Naples. Visit Parco Virgiliano, a garden perched on a hill, with sweeping views of the coastline and islands.
Instagram Spot: The vistas here are breathtaking at sunset.
Day 2: Beaches, Gardens, and Museums
Morning:
Galleria Umberto I. Start your day by visiting this elegant 19th-century shopping arcade, which features beautiful architecture and a massive glass dome. Stop at Pasticerria Popella to indulge in traditional "fiocchi di neve" and at Bar Brasiliano for an espesso and a maritozzi.
Capodimonte Museum & Park. Explore the Capodimonte Museum, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Caravaggio. Then, enjoy a relaxing stroll in Capodimonte Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces.
Lunch: Stop by a nearby trattoria for a traditional Neapolitan meal.
Afternoon:
Villa Comunale & Lungomare. Visit the historic Villa Comunale, a lovely park along the coast, perfect for a leisurely walk. The adjacent Lungomare (waterfront promenade) offers picturesque views of the bay and the Castel dell’Ovo.
Instagram Spot: Capture the serene waterfront with Vesuvius in the background.
Beach Time: Bagno Elena or Spiaggia della Gaiola. For a beach experience, head to Bagno Elena, a small, cozy beach in the Posillipo area. Alternatively, visit Spiaggia della Gaiola, a unique beach in the Gaiola Underwater Park, known for its crystal-clear waters.
Evening:
Castel Sant’Elmo. End your trip with a visit to this medieval fortress on a hilltop. The panoramic view from here is one of the best in the city, especially as the sun sets and Naples lights up. It's quite a steep hike to the top of the hill but it's a good exercise that allows you to eat more pizza without feeling (too) guilty.
Instagram Spot: Capture sweeping shots of Naples from above.
Chiaia District. For dinner, head to the chic Chiaia district and a taste of Naples’ upscale nightlife. Indulge in a frittatina, cuopo di pesce, or pizza fritta.
Day 3: More botanical zen, art, and modern design
Morning:
Orto Botanico di Napoli (Botanical Garden) Start your day at the Orto Botanico di Napoli, a peaceful oasis filled with a wide variety of plant species, including rare and exotic collections. Stroll through its themed gardens, admire centuries-old trees, and enjoy the tranquil setting. It is the perfect place to reconnect with nature in the city's heart.
Villa Floridiana is a beautiful park located in the Vomero quarter of Naples, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush greenery and neoclassical charm. Originally built in the early 19th century as a summer residence for the Duchess of Floridia, the villa and its expansive gardens are now a public park and cultural landmark. The park’s gardens, located behind the villa, are a serene haven filled with various trees, plants, and carefully arranged flower beds.
Instagram Spot: Capture the fabulous views of the Bay of Naples, Capri, and Vesuvius from the back of Villa Floridiana. Take a shot of the Turtles Fountain with the large stone staircase in the background.
Lunch in the Historic Center: Head to the Centro Storico for a typical Neapolitan lunch or try a cuzzetiello at O'Cuzzetiello e Sofí. Try famous pizza at a local pizzeria like Sorbillo or enjoy some sfogliatella for dessert. Soak in the bustling atmosphere of the city streets and maybe visit a nearby café for a coffee.
Afternoon:
After lunch, head to the Madre Museum (Museo d'Arte Contemporanea Donnaregina), one of Naples' most exciting contemporary art museums. Explore its diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks by Italian and international artists, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building. The museum also features thought-provoking temporary exhibitions that give you a glimpse into the cutting-edge of contemporary art.
Toledo Metro Station. Explore the architectural wonder that is Toledo Metro Station, often hailed as one of the most beautiful subway stations in the world. With its striking ocean-themed design by artist Oscar Tusquets Blanca, the station features deep blues and dramatic lighting, creating a surreal experience. It’s an iconic stop for lovers of urban design.
Chiaia Metro Station. Head over to Chiaia Metro Station, another metro stop known for its captivating design. Its minimalistic yet elegant approach contrasts beautifully with Toledo’s bold aesthetics, offering visitors a peek into modern Italian design. The unique lighting and use of materials here create a calming and futuristic atmosphere.
Instagram Spots: Look up and capture the great aquamarine Toledo station ceiling and Chiaia's red wall-of-eyes couple above the platforms.
Evening:
Sunset at Lungomare Caracciolo. End your day with a peaceful sunset walk along the Lungomare, Naples' seaside promenade. You’ll have a stunning view of the bay and Mount Vesuvius in the distance, a fitting close to a day filled with design, nature, and Neapolitan charm.
Pro Tips:
Transport: Purchase a daily pass (around 5 euros) from any metro station as it’s the easiest way to travel between your stops. You can use it in any means of transportation. If you're relying on the funiculars, don't; or check ahead if they're working.
Art pass: If you're an art lover, even better - Get a Campania ArteCard for discounts at museums and free use of public transport, including the metro.
Footwear: As Naples has lots of cobblestone streets and hills and you'll be covering a mix of natural and urban environments, wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Flight: Book window seats because you don't want to miss the spectacular views.
Best pasta: Stop at Antonio & Antonio (26 Via Partenope) for a wood-fired pizza. The fish and seafood platter or the pasta are 11/10.
Best pizza: If you're feeling peckish near Duomo, get an outdoor table at Pizzeria d'Angeli (20/22 Via Pietro Colletta) for some people-watching as you eat the tastiest pizza.
Accommodation: Volmero High Hotel (7 Via Privata Imperatrice G.) is a 10-minute walk from Rione Alto metro station. This means you're a 20-minute subway ride (Line 2) from the city.
Ferry: Get a ferry to Procida, Ischia or Capri islands (1 day for each).
Movie buffs: don't miss the L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele featured in Eat, Pray, Love. Located at Via Cesare Sersale, 1, it’s just a 15-minute walk from Napoli Centrale train station. Be prepared for a wait, but the authentic pizza is worth it! Also, The Royal Palace of Caserta, located 35 km north of the historic center, was used as a filming location for two Star Wars movies. It's the largest royal palace in Italy and the world by volume.
Sansevero Chapel and the Veiled Christ: This small baroque chapel is home to the incredible Veiled Christ sculpture, one of the most breathtaking pieces of art in Naples. The lifelike detail of the marble veil over Christ's body is a masterpiece you can’t miss.
*All photos were taken by Ina/WithinLondon, unless stated otherwise.
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