Our Metropolitan City of Naples, Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii Italy Visit: Day 1

On the 15th of June 2017 we arrived at 9 am at Capodichino Airport, Metropolitan City of Naples Italy. After we got to our accommodation near Naples train station, we started our first day of Naples adventure: historical center walking itinerary, including a visit to Via San Gregorio Armeno, an underground tour, churches and landmarks, and also traditional pizza.

Hotel

Find the best hotels in Naples

Naples is a fantastic base for exploring Pompeii, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Staying close to the city centre or the main train station makes day trips much easier, especially if you’re relying on public transport.


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If you’re planning your own Naples itinerary, here are a few resources that made our trip much easier:

Browse Favourite Travel Essentials for Italy

If you’re planning your Italy trip in advance, you can save money by buying travel accessories before you leave.

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Portable Phone Charger

Portable Phone Charger

Keep your phone powered throughout busy sightseeing days so you can use maps, take photos, and stay connected while exploring Italy.

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We took the Naples Alibus Airport Shuttle to Naples Central Train Station. The Alibus arrives and also departs from the bus stop that is located on the exit side of the airport, about 100 meters from the arrivals terminal. The shuttle runs daily with departures every 20 to 30 minutes.

In about 15 minutes we already arrived at the Alibus stop, located on Corso Novara, near Naples train station in Piazza Garibaldi. One ticket was only 5 euros. We chose our accommodation close to the central train station.

Airport Transfer

Naples Airport Transfer

Start your trip stress-free with a reliable airport transfer. Choose from private or shared transfers and travel comfortably from the airport directly to your hotel.


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Then, from Piazza Garibaldi we went towards west. As we arrived early, before 10 am, and check in started from 1 pm, we decided to stop for breakfast at McDonald’s Napoli P.zza Garibaldi. Eventually, it wasn’t a very good choice, as the place wasn’t as a usual McDonald’s restaurant.

After breakfast we walked towards our hotel. We turned right on Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi and then at the next intersection we took the second street to the left, Via Cesare Rosaroll. After a few steps we finally found our accommodation on the left.

Tours & Activities

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Make the most of your trip with unforgettable experiences. Choose from boat tours, guided walks, food tours, skip-the-line tickets, day trips and more.


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Accommodation and First Impressions in the City of Naples, Italy

We stayed 5 nights at Hotel La Pace, in a standard double room with breakfast included. La Pace is a 3-star vintage hotel conveniently situated at 5 minutes walking distance from Naples train station and also very conveniently close to Naples historic center. We paid only 160 euros back then in 2017. And now it costs around 250 euros, a still very reasonable price. Naples City Tax is 2.50 euros per person per night for a 3 star hotel, 3.50 euros per person per night for a 4 star hotel and 4.50 euros per person per night for a 5 star hotel up to a maximum of 10 consecutive nights. We paid 25 euros at the reception when we arrived at the hotel and checked in.

We were able to check in early, as the room was ready for us. The amount for the city tax, 25 euros, was a shock for us. It was our first time in Italy and we weren’t aware that the city tax costed that much. As we were traveling on a budget, we felt we started spending a little too much and we were in Italy for just a couple of hours – 35 euros: 10 euros the airport transfer and 25 euros the city tax.

Staying near Naples Centrale train station is convenient because it offers quick access to trains, the metro, and buses to places like Pompeii, Sorrento, and the airport. Naples train station area has many affordable hotels, shops, and restaurants, making it practical for short stays or day trips.

While Naples train station area it’s busy and a bit chaotic, it’s ideal for travelers who value convenience and good transport links.

Walking to the Historic Center of the City of Naples, Italy – Via dei Tribunali

We were very tired as our flight was very early so we didn’t get enough sleep the night before, but we didn’t rest in the hotel room because we didn’t want to waste any time of our experience in Naples. First we walked to the historic center.

What I Packed for Naples

Exploring Naples means plenty of walking, sightseeing, and time outdoors, so these travel essentials helped make our trip more comfortable and convenient.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Comfortable Walking Shoes

A comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential for exploring Naples on foot, especially on cobblestone streets and during long sightseeing days.

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Travel Passport Holder

Passport Holder

Keep your passport, travel documents, cards, and other important essentials organized and easy to access while traveling.

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Portable Power Bank

Power Bank

Keep your phone charged for maps, photos, restaurant searches, and sightseeing when you’re out exploring all day.

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Universal Travel Adapter

Universal Travel Adapter

A handy travel essential for charging your phone, camera, and other electronics while staying in Naples.

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Reusable Water Bottle

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated while walking around Naples and exploring the city’s historic streets, viewpoints, and attractions.

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Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag

Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag

A compact crossbody bag keeps your phone, wallet, passport, and other essentials close while you’re exploring busy areas.

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Travel Sunglasses

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes and enjoy sunny days while walking through Naples, relaxing along the waterfront, or taking a day trip.

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Foldable Tote Bag

Foldable Tote Bag

A lightweight tote that folds down small and is handy for carrying souvenirs, groceries, beach essentials, or anything you pick up while exploring Naples.

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Plan Your Trip to Naples

Budget Travel Accessories

Get ready for your Naples adventure with practical travel accessories for sightseeing, day trips, and exploring the city. Browse budget-friendly travel essentials on AliExpress.

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As exiting the hotel we went left on Via Cesare Rosaroll and at the second intersection we got to a large intersection and we crossed a large square, Piazza San Francesco di Paola. We then turned left and passed through Porta Capuana, an ancient city gate. We got to Piazza Enrico de Nicola, a small park full of kids riding scooters. What surprised us was the fact that the kids seemed no older than 10.

We continued straight ahead along the walls of the medieval Castel Capuano. Then we turned left on Via Concezio Muzy, surrounding Castel Capuano, and in front of the castle we turned right on Via dei Tribunali.

We took some pictures on one of the interesting narrow streets, the 5th narrow street on the right, Vico S. Maria Vertecoeli.

Napoli - Via Tribunali - city of naples italy
Napoli – Via Tribunali

Exploring Churches, Streets and Pizzerias in Naples

Then we got to a little square where we found the Obelisk of San Gennaro in front of the Cathedral of Naples, Chapel of St. Januarius. Many churches, monuments and buildings on Via dei Tribunali date back to ancient times.

After the next intersection on the left we found a well known pizzeria, Pizzeria Dal Presidente. So, continuing ahead on Via dei Tribunali we got to Piazza dei Gerolomini where Chiesa dei Gerolomini is located. After the next intersection we found Di Matteo an authentic Napolitan pizzeria on the right. Next we got to Piazza San Gaetano. Also on the right we saw Basilica di San Paolo Maggiore and Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea). We went to the left and got to Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore (La Neapolis Sotterrata). And we then continued forward on Via San Gregorio Armeno (Via dei Presepi).

Christmas alley or Via San Gregorio Armeno is lined up with artisans’ workshops making and selling nativity scenes.

Napoli - San Gregorio Armeno - city of naples italy
San Gregorio Armeno, City of Naples Italy

Also, down the street of San Gregorio Armeno on the left we found Chiesa di S. Gregorio Armeno.

Tours & Activities

Naples Walking Tour

One of the best ways to discover Naples is on a walking tour with a local guide. You’ll learn about the city’s fascinating history while discovering hidden streets, churches and traditional food spots that many visitors miss.


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A Short Walk Through Spaccanapoli: Heart of the Historic City of Naples Italy

Then, at the next intersection we turned left on Via San Biagio Dei Librai and we found the Doll Hospital (Ospedale delle Bambole).

Ospedale delle Bambole, near Via San Gregorio Armeno, City of Naples Italy
Ospedale delle Bambole, City of Naples Italy

We visited the “Doll Hospital”. This “hospital” looks like any other shopfront in the historic center of Naples, but is in fact a 4th-generation doll repair shop. The “Ospedale delle Bambole” is wall-to-wall doll parts, and definitely worth a quick visit; website: http://www.ospedaledellebambole.com, open Monday – Friday from 10 am to 4.30 pm, and also on Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm; address: Via San Biagio dei Librai, 46.

Via San Biagio Dei Librai is the famous Spaccanapoli – thus the street that splits the city in two.

Ospedale delle Bambole, near Via San Gregorio Armeno, City of Naples Italy
Napoli – Ospedale delle Bambole
Ospedale delle Bambole, near Via San Gregorio Armeno, Naples
Napoli – Ospedale delle Bambole
Ospedale delle Bambole, near Via San Gregorio Armeno, City of Naples Italy
Ospedale delle Bambole

We then returned on Via San Gregorio Armeno.

Napoli - San Gregorio Armeno
Napoli – San Gregorio Armeno
Napoli - San Gregorio Armeno, city of naples italy
Napoli – San Gregorio Armeno

Visiting La Neapolis Sotterrata – Naples Underground

We decided to visit La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground). The visit was possible with a guide. We visited the remains of a Roman market lying beneath modern-day Naples, a shadowy underground maze where the city’s ancient life still feels close. The market was paved with mosaics, had many shops, and also a portico. Moreover, the entry ticket was cheap.

Chiesa di San Lorenzo Maggiore (website: http://www.laneapolissotterrata.it/en/home-en/#)  has its own collection of Roman ruins underground Naples, where you can actually walk along Roman streets and in and out of still-standing rooms. In the basement of the San Lorenzo actually church you’ll find a partially excavated Roman market. What’s more, underground you can walk into them to get a peek at the Roman laundry (one basin for washing, another for rinsing) and Roman bakery (the bread oven in the back looks essentially like the pizza ovens in Naples do today). La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground) is located in Piazza S.Gaetano, 316. Opening times: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (everyday), 9 € – Full ticket.

Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore Napoli - La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground), near Via San Gregorio Armeno
Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore Napoli – La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground)

Attraction Tickets

Naples Underground Tour

Naples Underground is one of the city’s most popular attractions and can sell out during peak season. Booking your ticket in advance is recommended if you’re travelling between spring and early autumn.


Book Tickets

Back in Via dei Tribunali we went to the left, passed by Complesso Museale Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco and then we found Gino e Toto Sorbillo pizzeria on the right.

Via dei Tribunali, intersection with Via San Gregorio Armeno, city of naples italy
Via dei Tribunali, City of Naples Italy

So we continued ahead all the way to Piazza Dante. In the middle of the piazza stands the Monument of Dante Alighieri, and then in the background is an imposing building hosting a boarding school, Convitto Nazionale Vittorio Emanuele II. But what distinguishes the building is the clock, Orologio Equazione Del Tempo.

Napoli - Piazza Dante
Napoli – Piazza Dante

Strolling Via Toledo – Naples Shopping Street

There was the Dante subway station, but we decided not to take the subway to Piazza Toledo and continued to walk along Via Toledo instead to browse some shops.

Napoli - Piazza Dante
Napoli – Piazza Dante

We entered a few shops and then we got to Largo Enrico Berlinguer where the Toledo subway station is.

Napoli - Via Toledo, city of naples italy
Napoli – Via Toledo

On the right side the many narrow parallel streets lead to the famous Quartieri Spagnoli.

Napoli - Quartieri Spagnoli
Napoli – Quartieri Spagnoli

Tours & Activities

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The Unfiltered Street Food & Market Tour of Naples


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Napoli - Quartieri Spagnoli, city of naples italy
Napoli – Quartieri Spagnoli
Napoli - Quartieri Spagnoli, city of naples italy
Quartieri Spagnoli

Hotel

Find the Perfect Hotel

If it’s your first time in Naples, staying in the Historic Centre, Toledo or Chiaia offers easy access to many of the city’s main attractions, restaurants and transport connections.


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We wanted to see the interesting design of Toledo subway station – Metropolitana Via Toledo, so, instead on walking a few steps, we took the subway for one stop to Municipio. The subway ticket costed 1.5 euros per person.

Napoli - Piazza Municipio, city of naples italy
Piazza Municipio, City of Naples Italy

We noticed the Fountain of Neptune built in 1600 and also Palazzo San Giacomo – the city hall.

Napoli - Piazza Municipio
Napoli – Piazza Municipio

On the other side of the piazza lies the imposing Castel Nuovo. But we paused our sightseeing because we were hungry and wanted to try the famous Naples traditional pizza.

Castel Nuovo, city of naples italy
Castel Nuovo

Naples Pizza Margherita – Lunch at Antica Pizzeria Brandi Dal 1870

After we wandered a little on the streets, we used the GPS and we finally found Pizzeria Brandi. We had lunch at Antica Pizzeria Brandi Dal 1870, the place where pizza margherita was invented. We had the best pizza ever, Naples famous pizza margherita of course.

Napoli - Antica Pizzeria Brandi Dal 1870, city of naples italy
Naples pizza at Antica Pizzeria Brandi Dal 1870

From Piazza Municipio we went on via Vittorio Emanuelle III, got to Piazza Trieste e Trento and crossed the street and went on Via Chiaia and we finally found the famous pizzeria.

Best Restaurants in Lake Como

Best Restaurants in Naples

Discover restaurants in Naples, from elegant fine dining and refined seafood restaurants to charming trattorias and iconic pizzerias. Savor authentic Neapolitan flavors, fresh Mediterranean seafood, handmade pasta and exceptional Italian cuisine in the heart of the city.


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Afterwards we went to Piazza del Plebicisto, Naples’ landmark square. There is the neo-classical Royal Palace – the red building you can see in the picture below.

Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza Plebicisto
Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza Plebicisto

The square is a pedestrian wide area, dominated by the famous Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola. It is a Pantheon-style church with Greek columns on its facade. Entry is free.

Napoli - Piazza Plebicisto, city of naples italy
Piazza del Plebicisto, City of Naples Italy

Tours & Activities

Discover the Best Tours & Activities: Piazza del Plebicisto

This area is also one of the best places to start a guided sightseeing tour covering Naples’ most iconic landmarks.


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At the North exit of the square we also found Gran Caffè Gambrinus, a famous 19th-century coffee house with an elegant interior; website: https://grancaffegambrinus.com/.

Napoli - Caffe Gambrinus
Napoli – Caffe Gambrinus

Moreover, The Royal Palace of Naples is worth a visit if you have plenty of time. It is a 17th century palace with period furnishings, a home theater and also a lavish ballroom restored after war; website: https://palazzorealedinapoli.org/. As our time in Naples was very limited, we thus chose to skip this visit.

Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza Plebicisto
Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza Plebicisto

The Seaside in the City of Naples, Italy – Vesuvius Views and the Gulf of Naples

We were very tired, but we continued to walk towards the sea shore. So we exited Piazza del Plebiscito by the South exit and then we went on Via Cesario Console, passing by Molosiglio Gardens located on the left. We admired the sea by the Porticciolo Molosiglio, catching a glimpse of the Vesuvius.

The Gulf of Naples and The Vesuvio in the back, city of naples italy
The Gulf of Naples and The Vesuvio in the back

We had a short stroll along the seashore on Via Nazario Sauro and then returned through the Molosiglio Gardens in the direction on Piazza Municipio.

Napoli - Molosiglio Gardens
Napoli – Molosiglio Gardens
Napoli - Molosiglio Gardens
Napoli – Molosiglio Gardens

We returned to Piazza del Plebiscito and turned right at Piazza Trieste e Trento and went on Via Vittorio Emanuelle III and arrived at Castel Nuovo.

Tours & Activities

Naples City Tour

A guided city tour often combines Castel Nuovo, Castel dell’Ovo with other famous landmarks, making it an excellent option if you’re short on time.


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Napoli - Castel Nuovo
Castel Nuovo, City of Naples Italy

It is a Medieval fortress with 5 towers and a Renaissance triumphal arch. It hosts the civic art museum and it also has a chapel. Entry price is 6 euros per person; open Monday – Saturday from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm, last entry at 5.30. We were late so we couldn’t visit. We took some pictures instead.

Napoli - Castel Nuovo, city of naples italy
Napoli – Castel Nuovo

We finally took the metro from Piazza Municipio to Garibaldi, Naples train station and walked towards the hotel and continued to Via dei Tribunali.

Tours & Activities

Naples Pizza & Street Food Tour

Via dei Tribunali is one of the best places in Naples to enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza. If you’re passionate about local food, consider joining a guided food tour to discover the city’s most iconic dishes beyond the famous pizza.


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On Via dei Tribunali we had some traditional Naples pizzas taken away from Di Matteo. There was a line, but it moved quickly because their pizzas needed very little time to be ready and were very simple and delicious. The price was also very accessible, somewhere around 3 – 6 euros. We bought traditional Naples pizza margherita and some pizza with prosciutto. So, we savored the pizzas in our hotel room after a full day and went to bed early, preparing for a second full day – a day trip from Naples to the Amalfi Coast.

Plan Your Naples & Surroundings Trip

Planning a trip to Naples? From the historic streets of Naples and the fascinating underground tunnels to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, there is plenty to explore. Here are some of the travel resources and practical essentials we recommend for planning your own adventure in southern Italy.

Accommodation in Naples Italy

Find Hotels in Naples

Naples is a great base for exploring southern Italy. Staying in the city gives you easy access to historic attractions, restaurants, Naples Central Station and transport connections to Pompeii, Sorrento and other destinations.

You can choose from hotels in the historic centre, accommodation near Napoli Centrale or properties in quieter areas of the city. Compare different options and locations before booking your stay.

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Hotels Near Napoli Centrale

Walking through the historic centre of Naples

Explore Naples on a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to experience Naples is on foot. Wander through the historic centre, discover colourful streets and historic churches, see Spaccanapoli and experience the unique atmosphere of this fascinating Italian city.

A guided walking tour can also help you discover the history, traditions and hidden corners of Naples while learning more about the city from a local guide.

Explore Naples Walking Tours

Naples Underground tour

Discover Naples Underground

Beneath the busy streets of Naples lies another world of tunnels, caves, ancient passages and archaeological remains. Naples Underground is one of the city’s most fascinating experiences and offers a completely different perspective on the history of Naples.

If you enjoy history and unusual attractions, consider adding a guided Naples Underground tour to your itinerary.

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Naples street food and Italian food

Experience Naples Street Food

Food is one of the highlights of visiting Naples. From traditional pizza and fried snacks to pastries and local specialties, the streets of Naples are full of flavours worth discovering.

A guided street food tour is a great way to sample local dishes while exploring the historic centre and learning about Neapolitan food traditions.

Explore Naples Street Food Tours

Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius day trip

Visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

A trip to Naples would not be complete without visiting Pompeii. The ancient city offers an incredible glimpse into Roman life and was preserved after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

You can combine Pompeii with a visit to Mount Vesuvius on a day trip from Naples. This is a convenient option if you want to see both attractions without arranging all the transportation yourself.

Explore Pompeii Day Trips

Capri boat tour from Naples

Take a Boat Trip to Capri

Capri is one of the most spectacular destinations near Naples. A boat trip gives you the chance to enjoy the Mediterranean coast, dramatic cliffs, sea caves and beautiful views of the island.

Depending on the tour, you may have time to explore Capri and Anacapri, swim in the sea or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Explore Capri Boat Tours

Amalfi Coast and Sorrento day trip

Explore Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

The spectacular coastline south of Naples is perfect for a day of scenic views and charming towns. Explore Sorrento, admire the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and discover colourful coastal villages along the way.

An organized day trip from Naples can be a convenient way to see several highlights without worrying about driving, parking and navigating the winding coastal roads.

Explore Amalfi Coast Day Trips

Naples Travel Essentials

Exploring Naples, Pompeii, Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast means plenty of walking, sightseeing and time outdoors. These practical travel essentials can make your trip more comfortable and help you stay organized while exploring southern Italy.

Comfortable walking shoes for travel

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Naples on foot, walking through Pompeii and spending long days sightseeing. Choose supportive walking shoes that can handle cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces and plenty of steps.

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Travel passport holder

Passport Holder

Keep your passport, cards and important travel documents together in one convenient place. A passport holder is especially useful when moving between airports, trains, ferries and hotels.

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Anker power bank for travel

Anker Power Bank

A power bank is useful when your phone is working overtime for Google Maps, photos, tickets, restaurant bookings and travel information. Keep a portable charger in your day bag so you can recharge while exploring.

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EPICKA universal travel adapter

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

A universal travel adapter is useful for charging your phone, camera, power bank and other electronics during your trip. A compact adapter helps keep all your devices ready for a full day of sightseeing.

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Reusable water bottle for travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is important when spending long days walking around Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. An Owala or Hydro Flask reusable bottle is easy to carry and refill throughout your trip.

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Pacsafe anti-theft crossbody travel bag

Pacsafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag

A secure crossbody bag is convenient for carrying your phone, passport, wallet and other small essentials while sightseeing. An anti-theft design can provide additional peace of mind in busy streets, train stations and crowded tourist areas.

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Compression packing cubes

Compression Packing Cubes

Compression packing cubes help organize clothes and make better use of the space inside your suitcase. They are particularly useful when moving between several hotels or destinations during an Italy trip.

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Waterproof phone pouch for boat trips

Waterproof Phone Pouch

A waterproof phone pouch is handy for Capri boat trips, beach days and other activities around the coast. It can help protect your phone from splashes while keeping it accessible for photos.

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Foldable travel backpack

Foldable Backpack

A lightweight foldable backpack is useful for day trips to Pompeii, Vesuvius, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. It folds down small when you do not need it and gives you extra carrying space when exploring for the day.

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Travel luggage tags

Luggage Tags

Luggage tags make it easier to identify your suitcase at the airport, especially when travelling with checked baggage. Choose a durable tag with your contact details securely hidden or protected.

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Travel cable organiser

Cable Organiser

Keep charging cables, USB adapters, memory cards and small electronics organized in one place. A compact cable organiser makes it much easier to find your accessories when changing hotels or heading out for the day.

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Exploring Naples and southern Italy

Exploring Naples and Surroundings

Naples is a destination that rewards curiosity. The city can feel chaotic and energetic, but that is part of its character. Take your time exploring the historic streets, stop for pizza or traditional street food and leave room for unexpected discoveries.

Beyond Naples, you can easily build an itinerary around Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Each destination offers a completely different experience, from ancient Roman history to dramatic coastal scenery and island adventures.

Start Planning Your Naples Trip

Restaurants in Naples Italy

Where to Eat in Naples

Discover restaurants in Naples, from traditional Neapolitan pizzerias and authentic trattorias to casual street-food spots and stylish restaurants. Try fresh pasta, local seafood, classic Neapolitan pizza and delicious pastries while experiencing the vibrant food culture of southern Italy.

You can also discover restaurants and dining experiences in Sorrento, Capri and along the Amalfi Coast, where local cuisine comes with beautiful coastal scenery.

Explore Restaurants

Naples and Amalfi Coast travel

Planning Your Own Naples Adventure?

Start planning your trip to Naples and explore the best of southern Italy. Combine the historic streets and food culture of Naples with day trips to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, scenic adventures in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, and a boat trip to beautiful Capri.

With the right accommodation, tours and travel essentials, you can make the most of your time exploring Naples and its spectacular surroundings.

Start Planning Your Naples Trip

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Read On

Make sure to check out Our Metropolitan City of Naples, Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii Italy visit: Day 2 to continue exploring — from hidden corners to grand vistas, there’s much more to discover. You can find all our posts about Naples on this page. Moreover, for inspiration and practical tips on visiting Italy, grab our maps and travel guides and also head over to our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your starting point for all things Italian! And if you’re looking to expand your itinerary, don’t miss our posts on Rome and Vatican experiences, and also our day trips to Nemi, Tivoli and Riviera di Ulisee.

Continue the itinerary

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Amalfi Coast

Discover dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, scenic coastal roads, and beautiful Mediterranean views along Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast.

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Exploring Naples

Experience Naples through its historic streets, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating mix of ancient and modern Italy.

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Capri

Explore Capri’s stunning coastline, charming streets, hidden coves, and iconic landmarks on this unforgettable island escape.

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Vesuvius and Pompeii

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Home » Our Metropolitan City of Naples, Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii Italy Visit: Day 1

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Day 1: Exploring Naples

1. How did you get from the airport to Naples city center?

We took the Alibus Airport Shuttle from Capodichino Airport to Naples Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi). The ride takes about 15 minutes and cost roughly €5 per ticket. (2017)

2. Where did you stay in Naples?

We stayed at Hotel La Pace for 5 nights, near Naples Central Train Station (Napoli Centrale), which is convenient for transport links to Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Capri, and also the airport. Moreover, staying here also makes it easy to explore the historic center on foot.

3. Did your hotel allow early check-in?

Yes — our room was ready early, which was great after a long flight. Note that Naples also has a city tax that guests pay at check-in, which varies by hotel star rating.

4. How did you spend your first day in Naples?

We spent Day 1 walking through the historic center, including narrow streets, ancient city gates, churches, landmarks, and pizzerias — soaking up authentic Neapolitan life.

5. What historic streets and sites did you visit?
  • Via dei Tribunali – one of Naples’ oldest streets with historic churches and buildings.
  • Spaccanapoli – the iconic street splitting Naples’ historic center.
  • Via San Gregorio Armeno – Naples’ famous nativity-scene artisan street.
  • Quartieri Spagnoli – atmospheric neighborhood with winding alleys.

Tips:

6. What unique places did you see in the historic center?

We visited:

  • Ospedale delle Bambole (Doll Hospital) – a quirky multi-generation doll repair shop.
  • San Lorenzo Maggiore & La Neapolis Sotterrata (Naples Underground) – underground Roman ruins and mosaics.
  • Piazza Dante – central square with the Dante Alighieri monument.
7. Where did you eat on Day 1?

We had lunch at Antica Pizzeria Brandi — the reputed birthplace of the pizza margherita. Later, after visiting Naples historic center, we bought takeaway pizzas at Di Matteo (margherita and prosciutto), which were inexpensive and delicious.

8. What landmarks did you see near the sea?

We walked to Piazza del Plebiscito, admired the Royal Palace of Naples and Basilica San Francesco da Paola, and then strolled along the seafront (Via Nazario Sauro) with views of Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples.

9. Did you visit any castles or museums?

We saw Castel Nuovo (a medieval fortress with Renaissance archways) from outside — entry is possible but we skipped going in due to time and tiredness.

10. Was it a tiring first day?

Yes — even after an early morning flight, we walked a lot exploring historic streets, landmarks, seafront, and also estaurants. Then we ended the day with pizza in our hotel room and rested up for Day 2: a day trip to the Amalfi Coast.

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