Naples 6 Day Itinerary

6 Day Naples Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Naples, with some flexibility for food and exploration based on your interests.

Where to Stay:

For this itinerary, we’ll assume you’re staying in the historic center of Naples, close to many attractions. Some popular options include:

  • Boutique Hotels:
    • Hotel Piazza Bellini: Located in a historic building near the vibrant Piazza Bellini (great for experiencing the local atmosphere).
    • Romeo Hotel: Stylish hotel with stunning views of the Bay of Naples (perfect for a luxurious stay).
  • Apartments: Consider Airbnb or VRBO for a more local experience.

Things to Know:

  • Safety: Naples is a large city and, like any other, has its share of pickpockets and petty crime. Be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Transportation:
    • Naples Metro: Efficient and affordable for navigating the city center.
    • Buses and Trolleys: Naples has an extensive bus network (buses are often crowded).
  • Language: While Italian is the official language, learning some basic Neapolitan phrases can enhance your interaction with locals.
  • Food: Be prepared to eat a lot of delicious food! Naples is famous for its pizza, so try some different varieties while you’re there.

Day 1: Arrival and Historic Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Naples (Naples International Airport - NAP).

  • Transportation: Take the Alibus from the airport to the city center.

  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel in the historic center. Explore the Piazza del Plebiscito, a grand square with impressive architecture.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (renowned for its simplicity and deliciousness) or Gino Sorbillo (famous for its “pizza fritta” - fried pizza).

Things to See:

  • Piazza del Plebiscito: Explore this grand piazza, visit the Royal Palace, and admire the impressive architecture.
  • San Carlo Theatre: Take a tour of this opulent opera house, known as one of the most beautiful in Europe.
  • Sansevero Chapel: Marvel at the intricate sculptures and the mysterious “Veiled Christ”

Things to Eat:

  • Pizza: Naples is the birthplace of pizza! Try the classics: Margherita (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil) or Marinara (tomatoes, garlic, oregano).
  • Seafood: Naples is right on the coast, so indulge in fresh seafood dishes like “spaghetti alle vongole” (with clams), “frutti di mare” (seafood platter) or “polpo all’insalata” (octopus salad).

Things to Do:

  • Take a stroll down Via Toledo, the main shopping street in Naples, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
  • Sample street food: Naples is known for its vibrant culinary scene. Try pizza a portafoglio (folded pizza), fried snacks like arancini (rice balls) or cuoppo (a paper cone filled with various fried seafoods), and indulge in a scoop of local gelato.

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii.

  • Afternoon: Hike up Mount Vesuvius for stunning views of the city and the Bay of Naples.

  • Things to Eat:

    • Osteria La Soffitta: Traditional Neapolitan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and recipes.
    • Pizzeria Vesuvio: Enjoy pizza with a view in this restaurant located near the volcano.

Things to Do:

  • Explore Pompeii’s ruins: Climb through history, walking the streets of this ancient city frozen in time by the eruption of Vesuvius.

Things to See:

  • Ruins of Pompeii: This site offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
  • Pompeii Archaeological Park: Spend the morning touring the ruins and learning about the devastating eruption that preserved this ancient city.

Things to Do (Afternoon):

  • Hike up Mount Vesuvius: Experience the thrill of hiking to the summit of the volcano that overlooks Pompeii.

Day 3: Naples’ Artistic Soul

  • Morning: Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to a remarkable collection of ancient Roman artifacts.
  • Things to Do: Explore the museum’s extensive holdings of sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Things to Eat:

  • Visit a local pizzeria: Enjoy some of the best pizza in the world (and a few other Italian treats) while learning about the history and culture behind this culinary tradition.

Things to Do:

  • Explore the underground city: Take a tour of Naples’s intricate network of tunnels beneath the historic center.

Day 4: Exploring the City Center

  • Morning: Visit the Duomo (Cathedral) di Napoli, a stunning architectural masterpiece with a rich history.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming streets and alleyways of the historic center, stopping at local cafes for a coffee break and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Things to Do (Evening):

  • Wander through Piazza Bellini: This lively square in the heart of Naples is home to several bars and restaurants serving delicious food and drinks.
  • Enjoy a traditional Neapolitan pizza: Try different varieties like the “Margherita” or “Marinara” and savor the local flavors.

Day 5: Neapolitan History & Culture

  • Morning: Explore the historic Palazzo Reale, learning about the history of the Bourbon dynasty.

  • Things to See (Afternoon):

  • Visit the historic Castel Nuovo: Discover the history of this iconic castle and its role in Naples’s past.

  • Enjoy the local “pizza fritta”: A unique Neapolitan treat, it’s a fried pizza pocket filled with ricotta cheese and other savory fillings.

Day 6: Explore the City’s Culinary Treasures

  • Things to See:
    • Naples’s best restaurants: Indulge in a culinary journey through the city. Try traditional seafood dishes at Trattoria Nennella, La Taverna del Dottore, or Il Marinaro.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Via San Gregorio Armeno: This street is renowned for its seasonal Christmas markets and is home to the “Pizza Fritta” (Fried Pizza)

Things to Eat:

  • Enjoy a pastry at Sfogliatella Mary: A local favorite for their delicious pastries.
  • Try a “sfogliatella”: These flaky, shell-shaped pastries are a must-try Neapolitan delicacy.

Things to Do (Optional):

  • Visit the Naples Pizza Museum: Learn about the history and art of pizza making in this quirky museum dedicated to all things pizza!

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Palazzo Decumani: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.
  • B&B La Bella Napoli: A cozy and affordable bed and breakfast option in the heart of Naples.
  • Hotel Excelsior: This is a great hotel for families or groups, with spacious rooms and suites.

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Take a pizza-making class: Learn from experienced chefs about the traditional techniques used to make Neapolitan pizza.
  • Indulge in a “sfogliatella” tasting session: Explore different types of this iconic pastry, including ricotta-filled and custard-filled versions.

Things to see & Do:

  • Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum: Explore the history of art and archaeology in the city.
  • Explore the underground tunnels: Learn about the fascinating history of the Neapolitan “camorra” (mafia) and how they are linked to the history of the city.

Things to do (Alternative Activities):

  • Take a boat trip to the island of Capri: Enjoy the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast while enjoying a delicious lunch at a charming seaside restaurant.
  • Indulge in “pizza fritta”:

Enjoy the atmosphere:

  • Wander the streets and alleys: Explore the vibrant street culture of Naples, including its open-air markets and traditional shops.

  • Food & Drink (Alternative Experiences):

  • Take a tour of the Pompeii ruins: Discover the history of this ancient Roman city frozen in time.

  • Visit the National Archaeological Museum’s “Secret Room”: Discover the hidden world of the underworld, with its unique artifacts and displays.

Explore the vibrant culture of Naples:

  • Climb to the top of Mount Vesuvius: Enjoy breathtaking views while experiencing the beauty of the volcano.

Things to Do (For a Deeper Dive):

  • Visit the Pompeii Archaeological Museum in Naples: Learn about the history of the city and its famous eruption.
  • Explore the historical center: Discover the hidden gems and architectural wonders.
  • Take a cooking class in a local “trattoria”: Experience the culinary culture of Naples firsthand.

Things to Do (For the Adventurous)

  • Climb Mount Vesuvius (day or evening hike):

  • Embark on a challenging hike up to the crater: Enjoy the stunning views while experiencing the city’s natural beauty.

  • Visit the “Capella Sansevero” for a unique and unforgettable experience: This museum, located in the heart of Naples, is home to an incredible collection of sculptures and artifacts from the ancient world.

  • Explore the underground tunnels: Discover the history and secrets hidden beneath the city’s streets.

Important Notes:

  • Book your accommodation in advance: Especially if you are travelling during peak season.

  • Be aware of the “Camorra”: The Camorra is a powerful and dangerous criminal organization in Naples, and it is important to be aware of their presence and influence when visiting the city.

  • Research the best areas to stay: For example, the historic center for its cultural attractions, or the vibrant neighborhoods near the harbor for a more local experience.

  • Consider buying a “Napoli Card”: This card provides free access to public transportation and many museums and attractions in Naples, including the city’s historical center.

Remember: This is just a suggestion, you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and time of stay.