Naples Italy 7 Day Itinerary

7 Days in Naples: Pizza, Pompeii & Paradise

Welcome to Naples! This vibrant city offers a unique blend of history, culture, food, and stunning scenery. Here’s your guide to an unforgettable week exploring this Neapolitan gem:

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel of the Sun, Naples Experience Hostel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Piazza Bellini, B&B La Dimora di Napoli
  • Luxury: Grand Hotel Vesuvio, Romeo Hotel

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable for getting around the city center.
  • Bus: Extensive network covering most areas.
  • Funicolare: Historic funicular railways offer scenic rides up hillsides (Vomero).
  • Taxi: Readily available but can be expensive, especially during peak hours.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Italian. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory, rounding up the bill is common.
  • Safety: Naples is generally safe, but petty theft can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and secure valuables.

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Naples International Airport (NAP) and take the Alibus to the city center. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the heart of Naples! Wander through Spaccanapoli, the historic street dividing the city, and admire the baroque architecture, bustling markets, and hidden courtyards.
  • Evening: Indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Starita or L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Afterwards, enjoy a refreshing gelato at Gelateria Gay Odin.

Day 2: Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

  • Morning: Take an early train to Pompeii and explore the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city buried by Vesuvius in 79 AD. Allow at least 3-4 hours for your visit.
  • Afternoon: Hike or take a bus up Mount Vesuvius, Europe’s only active volcano, for breathtaking panoramic views of Naples and the surrounding Bay.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view at Ristorante Il Veliero on the waterfront.

Day 3: Island Escape - Capri

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Naples to the beautiful island of Capri. Explore the charming streets of Capri Town, visit the Gardens of Augustus for stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks, and take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto (weather permitting).
  • Afternoon: Relax on one of Capri’s picturesque beaches like Marina Piccola or Bagni di Tiberio.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at Ristorante Da Paolino, known for its lemon trees growing overhead.

Day 4: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the National Archaeological Museum to admire a world-class collection of Roman artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
  • Afternoon: Explore the opulent Royal Palace of Naples, once home to the Bourbon kings. Afterwards, stroll through the elegant Galleria Umberto I shopping arcade.
  • Evening: Catch a traditional Neapolitan opera performance at Teatro San Carlo, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious opera houses.

Day 5: Underground Naples & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Delve into the mysterious underground tunnels and caverns beneath Naples on a guided tour. Discover hidden catacombs, ancient aqueducts, and remnants of Roman history.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn the secrets of Neapolitan cuisine. Prepare your own pasta from scratch, create delicious sauces, and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch.
  • Evening: Savor authentic Neapolitan street food like fried pizza (pizza fritta) at Pizzeria Di Matteo or sfogliatella pastries at Sfogliatella Mary.

Day 6: Amalfi Coast Drive & Positano

  • Morning: Take a scenic drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Stop at viewpoints for stunning vistas of turquoise waters, colorful villages perched on cliffs, and lush lemon groves.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming village of Positano, known for its pastel-colored houses cascading down the hillside. Stroll through the narrow streets, browse boutiques, and relax on the beach.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before heading to Naples International Airport (NAP) for your departure.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases: It will enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
  • Bargain at markets: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs.
  • Try the local specialties: Pizza, pasta, seafood, sfogliatella pastries, and limoncello liqueur are must-tries.

Enjoy your incredible journey through Naples!