Your First Time in Naples

Our Local Expert Says:

The Museo Civico inside the Castel Nuovo is a great stop for history lovers.

Description:

Also known as the Castel Nuovo, the Maschio Angioino is a huge fortress built by the French Angevins during the 13th Century. The castle features 14th and 15th Century sculptures and frescoes as well as the Museo Civico. The courtyard highlights the Palatine Chapel and the Apartment of the Viceroys. Once a prime political and cultural venue in Napels, Castel Nuovo is now a popular tourist attraction and filming location for portions of Pier Paolo Pasolini's"Il Decameron" (1971) and "The Gospel According to St Matthew" (1964).

Our Local Expert Says:

Archaeology and history lovers will swoon over this museum, which is home to many of the artistic finds from ancient Pompeii, Herculaneum and other cities in the Naples area.

Description:

This 16th-century palace was remodeled in the 17th century to house the National Archaeological Museum. According to the fashion of the time, precious antiquities were embedded in the building as decoration: The marble statues on the facade were found during early excavations of Pompeii; the mosaics embedded in many of the floors are originals from the ancient Roman villas excavated in the 17th century. The whole collection is jaw-dropping and very extensive; even children will love the Egyptian section, and teens will be fascinated by the amazing precious Gemme collection.

The original core of the museum is the Farnese Collection, which was moved here in 1777 and enriched with treasures found during the archaeological excavations of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Stabia, and the rest of the region. The first-floor galleries here hold a superb collection of Roman sculptures, illustrating the integration of Hellenic principles into Roman art, and including such masterpieces as the Doriforo (Spear Bearer) from Pompeii, a unique, complete copy of the famous 5th-century-B.C. bronze statue by the Greek sculptor Policleto (in the Galleria dei Grandi Maestri, section 2). Other great masterpieces on...

Our Local Expert Says:

One of Naples' most beautiful piazzas located near the Galleria Umberto 1, Teatro San Carlo and historic Gambrinus cafe.

Description:

Formerly called Largo di Palazzo, as location of the royal seat, many festivals took place here that animated Naples. The current name of the square refers to the plebiscite of 1860, when the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies consented to the annexation to the Italian state. In the 17th Century, the square was renovated, but Napoleon brought about more radical and glorious changes to the square in the 19th Century that gave it the allure that remains unchanged today. The suffocating buildings were demolished and in their place, two prestigious facilities were built: the palace of the prefecture and the Palace of Salerno. Murat built thirty imposing Doric columns that make a perfect semicircle; at the center of the colonnades stands the basilica of San Francesco di Paola, commissioned by Ferdinand I. At the center of the square, there are two equestrian statues of Charles III of Bourbon and of Ferdinand I. The first is signed by Antonio Canova, the second by Antonio Calì. Today, Piazza Plebiscito, for its vast size and beauty, remains the preferred set of many of Naples grand events.

Description:

This imposing palace was designed by Domenico Fontana and built in 2 years, from 1600 to 1602, for the Spanish king Filippo III. Ironically, he never made it to Naples, and the castle was used by later kings who enlarged it in the 18th century. Luigi Vanvitelli worked on the facade, closing some of the arches to strengthen the walls and creating niches that were filled in 1888 by Umberto I, king of Italy, with eight statues of Neapolitan kings. Badly damaged during World War II, the building has been completely restored. Today, you can admire much of the interior, and we recommend doing so by guided tour to get a full appreciation of the sprawling place. The Royal Apartment occupies one half of the palace, and is still furnished with the original furniture plus a number of masterpieces taken from Neapolitan churches that have closed. From the elegant Cortile d'Onore (Court of Honor) the double ramp of the main staircase leads to the first floor and the Teatrino di Corte, the private "home theater" of the royal family. Continuing through, you enter the semi-public rooms, including the Throne Room. Beyond the corner begins the Private Appartment, where the kings lived until 1837, when...

Description:

Built in the Gothic style at the end of the 13th Century upon the wish of Carlo II d'Angio, the Duomo di San Gennaro sits on the site of the old cathedral Stafania. It has been subjected to numerous restoration works in the subsequent centuries, and the facade has been restructured significantly during the restoration work carried out following the earthquake of 1349. The three portals of Antonio Baboccio survived from the original structure. Under the second arcade on the left side of the central nave there is a baptismal font which is made of an Egyptian basalt basin decorated with Bacchic masks and on the upper parts from 1618 there is multi-colored marble. The 18th century organs and the episcopal throne are under the last two arcades of the central nave.

Description:

Sitting in the middle of a magnificent park that once was a hunting preserve for the Bourbon kings, this museum was created by Carlo III di Borbone in 1743 to house his mother's art collection (she was Elisabetta Farnese and had her own share of the family's art endowment). Also on the grounds, the king founded the Capodimonte workshops in 1739 in his endeavor to develop a local high-end industry. The workshops produced artistic ceramics following a unique technique and style that made them famous around the world. The laboratories slowed down considerably in 1759, when the king left Naples to become king of Spain, but his son Ferdinando kept it going until 1805.

While the wooded park -- still called bosco reale (royal woods) by locals -- is a pleasant destination for a stroll (locals love to come here for family outings, especially on weekends), the museum is a prime destination for art lovers. In addition to its own huge collection, the museum hosts stellar annual exhibits. Note: You'll have to book your tickets well in advance if you are planning your visit during this yearly event.

While the 19th-century Gallery on the mezzanine level includes a number of interesting paintings,...

Our Local Expert Says:

The views from the Certosa di San Martino overlooking Naples, the bay and Mt. Vesuvius are extraordinary. Even better, this museum contains a wonderful art collection.

Description:

Built as a monastery in the 14th Century, the Museo e la Certosa di San Martino building lay in ruins till it was reconstructed in the 17th century in the baroque style. San Martino Museum has collections that range from historic documents, ship replicas, porcelain, silver to paintings, sculptures, cribs (they have over 600 of them), and minor arts. It also contains important paintings of Neapolitan from the 16th-17th century. Close by is the Castle and the fortress of Elmo. This is the most visible landmark in Naples, for it is built atop the Vomero Hill that overlooks the gulf.

Description:

Villa Comunale lies between the Via Caracciolo seafront and Chiaia riviera, close to Piazza Vittoria and Piazza della Repubblica. Opened to the public at the end of the 18th century and later enlarged and embellished, it is now one of the Neapolitans' favorite places for a walk, bike ride, skate ride or just sitting in the shade of its huge trees. The avenues are adorned with monuments and statues of famous citizens and fountains that celebrate classical mythology. One of the first you see as you come from Piazza Vittoria is that of Flora Capitolina; further up on the left is that of Oreste and Electra, then there is the fountain of St. Lucy, which is one of Naples' most beautiful. Close to the entrance to the Aquarium, another fountain celebrates the myth of Castor and Pollux. Then there are the Fountain of the Four Lions (whose basin comes from the Temple of Poseidon in Paestum), and the fountain of the Flora del Belvedere (near the Casina Pompeiana, home to the Società di Belle Arti Salvador Rosa). Further on, you will find the fountain of the Rape of the Sabines, then that of the Rape of Europa. An equestrian statue is that of Armando Diaz on a pedestal 16m high. Then there is the... read more

Description:

The most famous basilica in Naples, this church was built in 1310 by king Roberto I d'Angió as the burial church for the Angevin dynasty. In the 18th century, it was lavishly decorated by the best artists of the time, but bombings in 1943 destroyed much of the art. A subsequent restoration in 1953 brought it back to its original Gothic structure. A large rose window decorates the facade, flanked by a majestic bell tower that dominates the neighborhood (its lower part is 14th century).

The interior is simple but monumental in size, with 10 chapels opening onto the central nave. It contains many royal tombs, including the grandiose tomb of Roberto d'Angió, a magnificent example of Tuscan-style Renaissance sculpture. From the sacristy you can access the Coro delle Clarisse (Choir of the Clares), with its beautiful 14th-century marble portal. The nuns sat in the coro during Mass, protected from the public; only fragments remain, sadly, of Giotto's frescoes that decorated its walls. After your visit to the basilica, walk behind the church and enter the door to the right: It leads to the unique Chiostro delle Clarisse, the monastery's main cloister. Strikingly decorated with bright majolica...

Description:

This is one of the oldest pizzerias in Naples, in the historic city center. Often frequented, it consists of several medium-sized rooms equipped with air-conditioning and decorated in simple, welcoming style. This restaurant's strong point is pizza - for which it received a 'Vera Pizza' ('true pizza') award from the organization of the same name. The vegetables and the few typical Neopolitan dishes on offer are both authentic and delicious.

Description:

Situated on the first floor of a recently restored palace, in the historic center of Naples, the balconies of the Ristorante Rosati overlook Piazza Plebiscito, Teatro San Carlo and Palazzo Reale. The rooms are in Liberty style with splendid doors and windows. All areas are air-conditioned, making the hotel ideal for business conferences. The dishes are typical of Neapolitan cuisine and prepared with carefully selected ingredients, with Pizza being the most popular dish. There is also a wide selection of wines.

Description:

Opened in 1780, Brandi was so renowned for the quality of its pizza that in 1889, the pizzaiolo (pizza chef) was invited to prepare pizza for the royal family who had never tasted it. He created a pizza with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes -- the colors of the newly unified country's flag -- and named his creation pizza alla margherita in honor of the first queen of Italy, Margherita di Savoia. The queen accepted the offering, and the pizza became an instant favorite throughout the country. The tradition has been maintained, and the restaurant succeeds in being good and authentic in spite of the streams of tourists now mixed in along the locals. Among the many pizzas on the menu, try the alla Totò, a deep-fried pizza somewhat like a calzone. Children are welcomed with highchairs, child-size pizzas, and infinite patience from the staff.

Description:

Located at the foot of Fortress Castel dell'Ovo, Restaurant Ciro comes across as a refreshing waterfront eatery. Dishing Italian tit bits throughout the day, the restaurant dishes tend to get better with each passing day. Pastas, pizzas, bruschettas and the like can also be relished at the terrace, where the view keeps company. Seafood lovers will find the menu listings interesting. It is one of the most popular eateries of the city. Check website for more.

Description:

Umberto is a historical restaurant that began in 1916 as a small trattoria. It has always been very popular with the locals. It is located near to the very elegant and exclusive Piazza Dei Martiri. It is air-conditioned. It has a very friendly atmosphere, and often has evenings of live music in which the guests and waiters all seem to end up getting involved. The restaurant is closed on mondays only.

Description:

This large wine bar stocks a vast range of wines, sparkling wines and liquors, including the best Italian and foreign brands. It is possible to taste these wines in the rustic shop interior. The prices are very good. Also enjoy piping hot pizzas and a pint of beer to go with it.

Description:

The atmosphere at the Velvet Club is dominated by muralled walls, artsy ambiance, electronic music and interactive video projections. Dance to the upbeat music as you meet new people and sip on an exotic drink. Special events and themed nights make it worth your while. Various art exhibitions are also held here from time to time. Check website for more details

Description:

Intra Moenia lies in the beautiful Bellinni Square. This small cafe is where people get together for a cup of coffee and relax in the adjoining veranda, amidst the garden. Inside, you can find books on literature and travel. The cane furniture adds to the informality and you can spend time just sitting and admiring the scenes. And if you want to surf the net, feel free to do it. A very popular place amomg the youth, one should definitely visit the place.

Description:

Open since the mid-19th century, this legendary coffee house has welcomed kings, queens, intellectuals, artists, prominent celebrities and heads of state. Graced with work by some of the finest artists of the period, this unique cafe has long been one of the city's liveliest cultural hubs. Picturesque squares and monuments surrounding Gambrinus impart the quintessential charm of days gone by, making this a popular meeting place for Neapolitans of all ages. Drop by for ice cream, pasta, cocktails or coffee, and you'll understand why the Gambrinus experience is always one of sheer pleasure.

Description:

Located near the railway station, this simple, but characteristic Bar, offers the most original products of Neapolitan pastry. A wide range of tasty coffees, croissants and the famous Sfogliatellas will involve you in the most ancient tradition of these original and genuine flavors. Don't miss this chance to enjoy these specialties and be part of the ancient Neapolitan culture.

Description:

The Kestè in Largo S. Giovanni Maggiore, located across from the Oriental Institue, is one of the historical locales of the city. Ideal for those who love to dance, there is also live music. In the summer the locale expands outside. The ambiance is informal and young where fun is guaranteed thanks to its many events and an extensive program of performances by famous and emerging bands.

Description:

Built in the Gothic style at the end of the 13th Century upon the wish of Carlo II d'Angio, the Duomo di San Gennaro sits on the site of the old cathedral Stafania. It has been subjected to numerous restoration works in the subsequent centuries, and the facade has been restructured significantly during the restoration work carried out following the earthquake of 1349. The three portals of Antonio Baboccio survived from the original structure. Under the second arcade on the left side of the central nave there is a baptismal font which is made of an Egyptian basalt basin decorated with Bacchic masks and on the upper parts from 1618 there is multi-colored marble. The 18th century organs and the episcopal throne are under the last two arcades of the central nave.

Description:

The church was built in 1283 by King Charles II of Angevin, and is part of the largest and wealthiest group of convent buildings in the city. It is the spiritual home of the Dominican Order in the Kingdom of Naples, as well as the seat of the Parthenopean University. In the past, devotees lived in an old convent in the area. The San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa church (probably built in the 10th Century, eventually to become the side chapel of a new edifice) bears witness to its existence. You will find a gamut of styles, representing successive periods of history and architecture.

Description:

The church of Santa Chiara was built between 1310 and 1328. The original design of the church's interior was completely transformed by Domenico Antonio Vaccaro between 1742 and 1747 and the entire Gothic structure was covered by magnificent Baroque ornaments. The Baroque look remained until it was heavily damaged during the Second World War. Now fully restored it is open to the public for tours and services.

Our Local Expert Says:

This Neo-classical church is the centerpiece of Naples' grand Piazza Plebiscito.

Description:

The Church of San Francesco di Paola was built as an offering from Ferdinando di Borbone after his return from exile in Palermo during the French occupation. The project was drawn up by the architect Pietro Bianchi in 1816. The church, inaugurated in 1816, was given the title of Papal Basilica by Pope Gregory XVI. The Basilica itself is preceded by a pronaos comprising of ten columns, which hold up a tympanum at the top of which a statue of Religion rests. The church is circular in shape and it is covered by an impressive dome which is styled on the Pantheon with lacunars and rosettes carved from limestone. The internal perimeter is ringed by 32 fluted columns with Corinthian capitols through which six side chapels can be seen. On the walls of the apse one can enjoy a painting by Vincenzo Camuccini depicting San Francesco di Paola tending to young Alessandro. It was painted in 1830 at the request of Francesco I.