4 Tage
4 days itinerary in Naples
What you'll do
Naples, there are millions of adjectives that could describe it. Naples is sun and sea, peace and chaos, history and culture, food and scents, passion and love. A city of many facets, not everyone can understand it, but once you learn to know it, she will return giving you all her heart.
I created this itinerary of 4 days, which are the minimum to visit the beauties of the city, including the most attractive conscious to more, but not only.. in fact you will also find places that are far from the classic tourist tour but that will make you fall in love.
I leave you with a conviction: after this itinerary, Naples will always be a journey that you will take in your heart.
Day 1
Small premise: if you stay in the historic center of Naples (Via dei Tribunali, Via San Biagio dei Librai, Via Duomo, adjacent and nearby streets) you can safely convert the day 2 to day 1. In this way, also according to your arrival time in the city, It will be easier and more convenient for you to visit.
Day 1: Start your city tour from Via Toledo (I recommend you to arrive by metro so as not to miss what has been considered by "The Daily Telegraph" and CNN the most beautiful metro station in Europe and the world; also, when you reach the escalators, keep your eyes high and your phone at hand, I assure you that you will not regret it!)
Via Toledo (built in 1536) is one of the main arteries of the city, vibrant street, full of shops where to stop for shopping, souvenir items, artisans, street artists, shops where to taste the classic street food of Naples (pizza a portafoglio, cuoppo fritto, fried pizza, various desserts such as babà and hot sfogliatelle). You will have to walk in the direction of Piazza del Plebiscito.
On the right of Via Toledo develop the Spanish Quarters (they are so called because during the period of Spanish domination, we talk about 1500, the military troops settled on the hill that today hosts the Quarters. The position was ideal, first because close to the Royal Palace, and then because, thanks to the slope of the hill, the soldiers managed to quell popular uprisings by pouring boiling oil on the streets), here you will find a world apart, a city in the city, small streets that intersect, restaurants and pizzerias, historic buildings and walls that speak thanks to their murals. The most iconic is at the end of Via Emanuele De Deo, in largo Maradona, where we find the mural dedicated to Diego Armando Maradona, for many Neapolitan a god. Place of worship, where people from all over the world come to pray, take pictures, buy gadgets or simply to snoop.
After visiting the Spanish Quarters, return to Via Toledo and head towards the Galleria Umberto I.
The Galleria Umberto I is a majestic shopping gallery built between 1887 and 1890 and dedicated to the then King of Italy. Within the gallery you will find cafes, bookstores, shopping shops. (Here too, I recommend looking up to admire the beauty of the dome of the gallery and the details in baroque style).
Exit the Gallery in direction of Via San Carlo (here you can also admire the main facade of the Gallery) and continue left towards Castel Nuovo (for the Neapolitans the Maschio Angioino).
The Maschio Angioino is a medieval and Renaissance castle, built between the thirteenth and fifteenth century in Gothic style. Symbol of the city, dominates the scenic Piazza Municipio, seat of the municipality of Naples. Inside the castle, paying a ticket of 6 euros, you can visit the interior rooms such as the Hall of the Barons, the main one of the Castle, frescoed by Giotto, with the splendid octagonal vault and the Hall of the Armory where archaeological remains from the Roman era have been found. The Palatine Chapel is the only evidence of the ancient Angevin palace and there are some sculptures of the Neapolitan Renaissance. The Castle houses the Civic Museum with frescoes and paintings ranging from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century and works of art from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. You can also visit the prisons, where a legend is hovering: here prisoners were locked up and mysteriously disappeared. After careful checks it was discovered that a crocodile dragged the prisoners into the sea to devour them. From then on the crocodile became the executioner of all the prisoners of the castle!
After leaving the castle, return to the Umberto I Gallery and go to the nearby San Carlo theatre.
The Teatro San Carlo is the opera house of Naples, built in 1737, and it is the oldest opera house in the world to be still active. For 9 euros, you can admire its immense hall, its horseshoe structure, the oldest in the world, inspiration for all the theatres of Europe and listen to the stories of the theatre and all the great artists who have performed there over the centuries.
Leaving the theater will be easy to reach the immense Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in the city and one of the most important in Italy. Symbol of the city, it is a must to stop here to enjoy its beauty and majesty, dominated by the Basilica San Francesco di Paola and the royal palace. Here you can enjoy a good coffee at the famous café Gambrinus, literary café built in 1860 and which has hosted illustrious figures such as Ernest Hemingway and Oscar Wilde.
As mentioned in Piazza del Plebiscito is the royal palace of Naples, visiting it will be like going back in time!
With a full ticket of 15 euros (free under 18), you will find yourself catapulted into the 1600s. The part I prefer is just the beginning, or the staircase of honor that dominates the entrance to the palace. With its grandeur, its white marble, the statues, the antique pavement, you will feel like a king or queen of the Renaissance. The visit continues by visiting the various rooms of the palace, with touches of extreme beauty to the court theater, throne room and royal chapel. You can also visit the hanging gardens with a view of Vesuvius and the time gallery at certain times with the full ticket. After visiting the inside of the palace you can also enjoy the outside with its wonderful gardens, called romantic gardens.
After the visit, you can continue the day in the direction of Via Chiaia, Piazza dei Martiri and Via dei Mille, famous streets for strolling and shopping where you can also find great clothing brands and not only (in Via dei Mille) like Gucci, Louis Vuitton or Rolex.
The day can only end with a walk on the most beautiful promenade in the world. Going down from Piazza del Plebiscito towards Via Partenope you reach Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest castle in the city (1st century BC) and also the most spectacular as it is located on the islet of Megaride and connected to the mainland artificially. Here you can enjoy the sunset with views of Vesuvius on one side and Posillipo on the other, you can dine in one of the pizzerias or restaurants in the area or take the elevator to Mount Echia, where you can take fantastic pictures of the panorama.
*The visit of the promenade can be moved to the second day, but I recommend it on both the first and second day as it is one of the most beautiful places in the city.
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Stazione Metro Toledo
Vibrant underground art gem in Naples
The Toledo Metro Station in Naples is a vibrant underground gem that's been dubbed the most beautiful metro station in Europe. Designed as part of the Art Stations project, it features colorful themes representing different aspects of the city as you descend deeper underground. From the psychedelic ceiling mosaic to the "Crater de Luz" light installation, this station is a visual treat for commuters and art enthusiasts alike.
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Via Toledo
Vibrant historical street in Naples
Via Toledo is a bustling street in Naples, known for its historical significance and vibrant shopping scene. Originally created in 1536 by Spanish viceroy Pedro de Toledo, it has evolved over the centuries to become a popular tourist destination. Lined with impressive buildings and connecting two important city squares, Via Toledo offers a mix of architectural wonders, religious sites, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Naples. Whether you're strolling through its charming alleys or exploring its iconic landmarks, Via Toledo is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the heart of this beautiful city.
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Murale Diego Armando Maradona - Quartieri Spagnoli
Iconic Maradona mural in Napoli
In the heart of Naples' Quartieri Spagnoli stands a legendary mural of Diego Armando Maradona, celebrating Napoli's second Scudetto victory in 1990. Painted by artist Mario Filardi, a passionate fan of the Argentine champion, the mural quickly became an iconic symbol of the city. Over the years, the artwork faced deterioration and restoration challenges, but thanks to efforts by local artists like Salvatore Iodice and Francisco Bosoletti, Maradona's image now shines brightly once again, captivating visitors and locals alike with its powerful tribute to the football legend.
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Galleria Umberto I
Historic shopping arcade in Naples
Galleria Umberto I is a cool shopping spot in Naples, Italy, right across from the San Carlo opera house. Built in the late 1800s, it's got a fancy glass dome and a cross-shaped layout with shops, cafes, and apartments. Designed by Emanuele Rocco, it's like the Milan Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II's little sibling. After some rough patches, it's back to being a bustling hub of Neapolitan life. Plus, it's part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Naples. So, if you're ever in the area, swing by for some shopping and sightseeing!
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Piazza del Plebiscito
Historic Naples square with statues
Piazza del Plebiscito is the main square in Naples, Italy, packed with history and charm. It's like the heart of the city, surrounded by impressive buildings like the Royal Palace and the Basilica di San Francesco di Paola. You can't miss the equestrian statues of Charles III and Ferdinand I, standing tall and proud. Legend has it that even Queen Margherita had a hand in creating some mystery around the square. Just try crossing it blindfolded – good luck!
Museum
Palazzo Reale di Napoli
Historic royal palace in Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples, also known as Palazzo Reale di Napoli, is a historic building located in the heart of Naples, Italy. Originally built as the residence of Spanish viceroys in the 17th century, it later became the main home of the Bourbons of Naples. The palace boasts stunning Italian Baroque and Neo-Classical architecture, housing royal apartments, a grand staircase, a royal chapel, and the National Library. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, rich collections, and beautiful gardens, immersing themselves in centuries of history and culture in this iconic Naples landmark.
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Teatro di San Carlo
Historic opera house in Naples
Teatro di San Carlo is a historic opera house in Naples, Italy, known for its stunning performances and rich cultural heritage. From operas to ballets and symphonic concerts, this place is a hub of artistic excellence. With a history dating back centuries, it's like stepping into a world where music and passion collide to create unforgettable experiences for audiences. Whether you're a seasoned opera buff or just looking for a night of entertainment, Teatro di San Carlo has something for everyone.
Museum
Castel Nuovo
Medieval castle with historical treasures
Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is a medieval castle in Naples, that's totally worth checking out. Built in 1279, this bad boy has seen kings, queens, and even popes come and go. It's got a cool civic museum inside with stuff like the Palatine Chapel and museum paths on different floors. Plus, it's the headquarters of the Neapolitan Society of Homeland History. So, if you're into history, art, or just want to feel like royalty for a day, Castel Nuovo is the place to be!
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Via Chiaia
Chic shopping street in Naples
Via Chiaia in Naples is a chic and bustling street that's perfect for shopping and strolling. Located in the heart of the city, it connects Piazza del Plebiscito to Piazza dei Martiri and offers a mix of historic buildings, trendy boutiques, and delicious eateries. Don't miss the chance to explore this vibrant area and soak up the local atmosphere!
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Piazza dei Martiri
Monument honoring Naples' martyrs
Piazza dei Martiri in Naples is a square with a monument dedicated to the Martyrs, located near the Villa Comunale park. The central monument features a bronze statue representing the Virtue of the Martyrs, surrounded by four lions symbolizing Neapolitan patriots who died in various revolutions. Each lion represents a specific uprising, from the Parthenopean Republic in 1799 to the successful Garibaldini Revolt of 1860. The square holds historical significance as a tribute to those who fought for freedom during Italy's unification in 1861.
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Via dei Mille
Trendy shopping street in Naples
Via dei Mille in Naples is a popular shopping street located in the Chiaia district. Lined with trendy boutiques and historic buildings, it's a great spot for a leisurely stroll and some retail therapy. Don't miss the beautiful Palazzo D'Avalos del Vasto and the modern art museum at Palazzo Carafa di Roccella. And if you need a break from shopping, head to Piazza Amedeo for a quick pit stop. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the chic side of Naples!
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Castel dell'Ovo
Historic fortress with magical legend
Castel dell'Ovo, also known as the "Egg Castle," is a historic seafront fortress in Naples, Italy. Legend has it that the Roman poet Virgil placed a magical egg in its foundations to protect the castle from destruction. Over the centuries, it served as a royal residence, prison, and treasury. Today, it's a popular spot for weddings and events, with a charming fishing village nearby. The castle's rich history and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Naples.
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Ascensore Monte Echia
New elevator offers city views
The Monte Echia Elevator in Naples has finally opened after 17 years of work, offering a breathtaking view of the city. Connecting via Santa Lucia to Chiatamone in just 30 seconds, this elevator provides access to the stunning Pizzofalcone hill with its panoramic views stretching from Capodimonte to Vesuvius. Visitors can now enjoy the renovated belvedere and gardens, overlooking landmarks like Castel dell'Ovo and Posillipo. It's a must-visit spot for anyone looking to soak in the beauty of Naples from above.
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Via Francesco Caracciolo
Seaside promenade with stunning views
Via Francesco Caracciolo in Naples, Italy is a charming seaside promenade that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the island of Capri. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 1.5-mile walkway, lined with cafes and restaurants. While the promenade is free to walk, be prepared for pushy vendors on weekends and tempting aromas from nearby eateries. Overall, it's a must-do for those looking to soak up the fresh sea air and take in the picturesque surroundings.