I am writing this one-day Naples itinerary as a love letter to one of the Italian cities that has most captured my heart. Often, the media only highlights negative stories about Naples, giving it a less-than-favorable reputation and discouraging many tourists, particularly those from other countries, from discovering its beauty. But I can confidently say that if you skip a visit to Naples, you are truly missing out on something that will make your trip to Italy unforgettable.
The city has what I like to call “a pulsating energy.” I’ve traveled to many places, but only a few have made me feel this way. Napoli is its own world! The sights, the culture, the food, the people… nothing, and I mean nothing, compares to it. Go there and let its contagious energy sweep you away; you won’t regret it!
Ideally, you’d need at least a couple of days to explore the city fully, but many travelers might want to squeeze in a day trip to Naples from Rome. That’s why I’ve put together this fantastic one-day Naples itinerary for you. To ensure you get the absolute best experience, I also consulted my cousin Elena, a proud Neapolitan who knows the city like the back of her hand.
Be sure to stay tuned until the end because she’s shared a list of some of the best restaurants in Naples, and hidden gems to visit!
Can You See Naples In A Day?
One day in Naples is enough to get a taste of the city, especially with a well-planned itinerary. However, an extra day would be ideal to explore at a more relaxed pace and discover some of the hidden gems that Naples is full of.
When's the Best Time to Visit Naples?
Short Answer: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)
Summer (July to August)
- Weather: Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
- Crowds: Peak tourist season, so expect long lines and crowded attractions.
- Activities: Great for beach trips to nearby Posillipo or Ischia, but less comfortable for exploring the city, especially during the midday heat.
Winter (November to February)
- Weather: Cooler and rainier, with temperatures averaging 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F).
- Crowds: Fewer tourists (except during the Christmas season – December until January 6), making it a good time for a quieter visit.
- Activities: Perfect for indoor attractions like museums, and churches, and enjoying Naples’ famous pizza and coffee culture.
Is Naples Safe For Tourists?
Yes, Naples is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it’s important to stay aware and take basic precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, particularly the Circumvesuviana train, which is known for pickpocketing.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry that might draw unwanted attention or be an easy target for theft.
- Avoid leaving anything valuable in your vehicle, if you’re traveling by car and using a public parking lot. Make sure nothing visible, like shopping bags, loose change, or even empty containers, could be mistaken for something worth stealing.
- Only use licensed taxis and confirm that the driver will use the meter before starting your journey. Also, double-check if they only accept cash.
- Be cautious of strangers who approach you offering to sell or give you something “for free.” Decline politely, and walk away.
- Always check menu prices at restaurants before sitting down, and review your bill before paying to ensure it’s accurate.
- Purchase tickets for attractions and transport from official websites or vendors to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets.
How To Get To Naples From Rome?
Naples is an ideal day trip from Rome, thanks to its quick and convenient accessibility. Whether you prefer driving, taking the train, or hopping on a bus, here are the best ways to travel between these two iconic cities.
🚗 BY CAR
Duration: 2.5 hours
If you choose to drive, we recommend parking your car at the Chiaiano – Metro 1 Subway Station public parking lot. From there, take the subway to Museo Station to reach central Naples.
Important Notes:
- The parking lot is unattended, so avoid leaving valuables, visible bags, or personal items in your car.
- Parking costs only €1.50 for the entire day.
- Use the ticket machine to pay, but make sure to have exact change, as the machine may not provide change.
This is the option we used, as we already had an electric vehicle rental while in Italy.
🚆 BY TRAIN
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: Euro 58–64 (per person)
The high-speed bullet train is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Rome to Naples. Trains depart from Roma Termini Station (in the heart of Rome) and arrive at Napoli Centrale Station.
Tips:
- Book your tickets in advance through Italo for the best prices.
- Alternatively, you can use RailEurope to purchase tickets for Italy and other European destinations.
🚌 BY BUS
Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
Cost: Euro $10–125 (per person)
For a budget-friendly option, consider taking the bus. Buses depart from Autostazione Tiburtina in Rome and arrive at Stazione Centrale in Naples.
Tips:
- You can purchase your FlixBus tickets online for a hassle-free experience.
How To Get Around Naples?
🚇 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Naples has an extensive public transportation network.
- Metro (Metropolitana):
- Line 1 (Metro Linea 1): Connects the city center to suburban areas, with stops at key locations like Piazza Dante, Museo (National Archaeological Museum), and Garibaldi (Central Station).
- Line 2 (Metro Linea 2): Runs from the city center to the outskirts, with stops at Piazza Cavour and Piazza Amedeo.
- Funiculars:
Naples has four funicular lines that connect the lower city to the hilly areas like Vomero and Posillipo. The most popular are Funicolare Centrale and Funicolare di Montesanto.
Tickets:
- Purchase single-ride tickets (€1.20), or daily passes (€4.50) at metro stations, newsstands, or tabaccherie (tobacco shops). Validate your ticket before boarding.
🚖 TAXI AND RIDE SHARING
- Taxis are available but cannot be hailed on the street. You’ll need to call a taxi service or find a designated taxi stand.
- Reliable taxi companies include Consortaxi and Radio Taxi Napoli.
🚶🏾 WALKING
Naples’ historic center (Centro Storico) is compact and best explored on foot. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking also allows you to soak in the city’s atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
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Now that you’re ready to explore, let’s discover how to spend one day in Naples!
PERFECT ONE-DAY NAPLES ITINERARY
Morning: Historical Naples and Underground Mysteries
Porta San Gennaro | Duomo di Napoli | Bansky’s Mural “La Madonna Con La Pistola” | 🍽️ Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria
Start your day early to make the most of your time in Naples.
PORTA SAN GENNARO
Begin your adventure at Porta San Gennaro, the oldest surviving gate of Naples. Dating back to the 15th century, this gateway was once part of the city’s defensive walls. It is adorned with religious frescoes and serves as a picturesque entry point into the historic center.
DUOMO DI NAPOLI (NAPLES CATHEDRAL)
A short walk from Porta San Gennaro will bring you to the Duomo di Napoli, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Januarius. This magnificent church is home to the city’s patron saint and the famous Blood Miracle of San Gennaro, a religious phenomenon that draws thousands of visitors annually. Take a moment to admire the stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture.
BANKSY'S MURAL - "LA MADONNA CON LA PISTOLA"
Before lunch, make a quick stop at one of Naples’ most famous street art pieces: Banksy’s “Madonna con la Pistola.” Located in Piazza Gerolomini, this mural is the only known Banksy artwork in Italy. The controversial piece blends religious imagery with modern-day gun violence themes, making it a thought-provoking stop.
LUNCH BREAK AT PALAZZO PETRUCCI PIZZERIA
No visit to Naples is complete without indulging in an authentic Neapolitan pizza. Head to Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria, a highly-rated spot known for its perfect dough, fresh ingredients, and traditional wood-fired oven. This spot comes highly recommended by my cousin Elena, who’s from Naples and knows all the best places to eat.
Try the Margherita DOP for a true taste of Naples or the famous pizza fritta, a deep-fried version of pizza that’s crispy on the outside and oozing with cheesy, flavorful fillings inside. This street-food favorite originated in Naples as an affordable way to enjoy pizza during tough economic times, and it remains a must-try dish for visitors.
ALTERNATIVELY: PIZZERIA DAL PRESIDENTE
Alternatively, if you’re in the area and looking for another option, you might want to try Pizzeria Dal Presidente, located right next to Banksy’s Mural. This spot is known for its pizza fritta, a traditional Neapolitan deep-fried pizza that has gained quite a following.
However, reviews for Pizzeria Dal Presidente are mixed. Some people rave about the food, while others have had less-than-ideal experiences. The day we visited, the atmosphere was quite chaotic, and the service left something to be desired (we had to wait quite a long time for our order). While the pizza fritta was indeed flavorful, it was on the oily side.
That said, the place does have many positive reviews, so we wouldn’t completely rule it out. One great feature is its large outdoor seating area, which makes it a great spot to soak in the lively energy of Via dei Tribunali, one of Naples’ historic streets. If you don’t mind taking a bit of a gamble on the service, it could still be worth a try!
Afternoon: Exploring the Heart of Naples
Via dei Tribunali | San Gregorio Armeno | Busto di Pulcinella | 🍽️ Pasticceria Poppella | Piazza Dante
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Naples’ most famous streets and cultural hubs.
VIA DEI TRIBUNALI
Walk along Via dei Tribunali, one of the city’s oldest streets, full of historic buildings, local shops, and lively pizzerias. The street is the heart of Naples’ historic center and offers a taste of the city’s energy.
VIA SAN GREGORIO ARMENO
A short detour will bring you to San Gregorio Armeno, the world-famous street of Nativity scene makers. This charming alley is filled with artisan workshops selling handcrafted “Presepi” (Nativity scenes), making it a magical place to explore year-round.
BUSTO DI PULCINELLA
Nearby, you’ll find the Busto di Pulcinella, a bronze statue of the iconic Neapolitan theater character. Legend has it that rubbing Pulcinella’s nose brings good luck, so don’t miss the chance to make a wish!
TAKE A SWEET BREAK AT PASTICCERIA POPPELLA
Taking a break at Pasticceria Poppella in Naples is a delightful experience, especially for those with a sweet tooth. This historic pastry shop is famous for inventing the “Fiocco di Neve” (Snowflake), a heavenly brioche filled with a creamy, custard-like cream made from buffalo milk ricotta. The light, fluffy texture and rich flavor make it a must-try, along with their other traditional Neapolitan pastries like sfogliatella and babà. While they have multiple locations, the best spot to visit is their original shop at Via Santa Brigida, 69/70 (just a 10-minute walk from the Busto di Pulcinella statue).
PIAZZA DANTE
Continue to Piazza Dante, a lively square named after the famous poet Dante Alighieri. Surrounded by grand historical buildings and filled with students and locals, it’s a great place to pause and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Late Afternoon: Get To Know The Soul of Naples
🍽️ Scaturchio | Montecalvario and Quartieri Spagnoli | Piazza del Plebiscito | Castel Dell’Ovo | Lungomare
Continue your one-day Naples itinerary in some of the most picturesque and moody parts of the city.
TRY A MINISTERIALE AT SCATURCHIO PASTICCERIA
If you prefer to take your break a little later, before visiting Montecalvario and the Spanish Quarters, stop by Scaturchio, just an 8-minute walk from Piazza Dante. While the pastry shop has several locations, head to the historic one at Piazza San Domenico Maggiore 19. This legendary pasticceria is best known for its Ministeriale, a chocolate medallion filled with a rich liqueur cream, as well as classic Neapolitan treats like sfogliatella and babà.
FALL IN LOVE WITH MONTECALVARIO AND QUARTIERI SPAGNOLI
Venture into Montecalvario and the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters), the most authentic and vibrant neighborhoods of Naples. Here, you’ll see colorful laundry lines hanging between balconies, street markets, and stunning murals of Diego Maradona, the legendary Argentinian footballer who played for the local team. This is the perfect area to experience the raw and unfiltered soul of Naples.
VISIT THE ICONIC PIAZZA DEL PLEBISCITO
End your walking tour at Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ most iconic square. Framed by the Royal Palace of Naples and San Francesco di Paola Church, this vast space is the ideal spot to take some memorable photos.
If You Have Extra Time: Castel Dell'Ovo and A Coastal Stroll
If you still have some energy left and want to extend your itinerary, consider visiting these nearby gems:
- Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle): Just a short walk from Piazza del Plebiscito, this seaside fortress is the oldest castle in Naples, offering stunning panoramic views of the bay. The name comes from a legend stating that the poet Virgil placed a magical egg within its foundations, and should it ever break, the city would face disaster. Walk through its ancient halls and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. NOTE: Currently, Castel dell’Ovo is closed to the public until further notice for renovation work.
- A Stroll Along the Lungomare (Naples’ Waterfront Promenade): Just outside the castle, you’ll find Lungomare Caracciolo, the scenic promenade along the coast. This seafront walkway is the perfect place to unwind, feel the fresh sea breeze, and admire the view of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. If you have time, stop at a waterfront café for a spritz or a gelato while enjoying the sunset over the Bay of Naples.
This one-day Naples itinerary offers a perfect mix of Naples’ history, art, food, and local culture. Naples is a city that never fails to captivate visitors, and I am sure you will fall in love with it as much as I have. Buon viaggio!
EXPERIENCE NAPLES LIKE A LOCAL
When it comes to exploring Naples, there’s no better guide than someone who knows the city inside and out. That’s why (as mentioned at the beginning) I turned to my cousin Elena, who was born and raised there. With her deep love for Naples’ culture, history, and cuisine, Elena has handpicked her favorite spots, both for dining and hidden gems to visit, to help you experience the authentic soul of Naples.
WHERE TO EAT IN NAPLES: LOCAL-APPROVED PICKS
IL MIO VIAGGIO A NAPOLI
Located near the vibrant Piazza Bellini, this cozy restaurant is a hidden gem offering an authentic taste of Neapolitan cuisine. Known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service, it serves traditional dishes like Neapolitan pizza, fresh seafood pasta, and regional specialties such as ragù napoletano. Using locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant provides a genuine dining experience, complemented by classic desserts like pastiera napoletana.
RISTORANTE CASA SCATURCHIO
Nestled inside the historic Scaturchio Pasticceria, this restaurant is more than just a pastry shop. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy traditional Neapolitan dishes in an elegant yet cozy setting. From fresh seafood pasta to the classic Parmigiana di Melanzane, it’s the perfect place to savor authentic flavors while soaking in the charm of Naples’ culinary heritage.
HIDDEN GEMS TO VISIT IN NAPLES: LOCAL-APPROVED PICKS
CHIOSTRO MAIOLICATO (CLOISTER OF SANTA CHIARA)
Tucked away behind the Santa Chiara Basilica, this stunning cloister is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Naples. Adorned with vibrant 18th-century majolica tiles, the cloister features lush gardens, intricate frescoes, and a serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a moment of tranquility and beauty.
MUSEO CAPPELLA SANSEVERO
This small but extraordinary museum is home to one of Naples’ most famous sculptures: the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino. The chapel also features other breathtaking works of art, including intricate marble statues and symbolic frescoes. A visit here is a journey into the artistic and spiritual heritage of Naples.
PALAZZO DELLO SPAGNOLO
Located in the Rione Sanità district, this 18th-century palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Known for its grand double staircase and ornate design, it’s a hidden gem that showcases the grandeur of Naples’ past. While not as well-known as other landmarks, it’s a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and those looking to explore the city’s lesser-known treasures.
NAPOLI SOTTERRANEA (UNDERGROUND NAPLES)
Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples) unveils a hidden world beneath the city—2,400-year-old tunnels, Greek-Roman aqueducts, and WWII bunkers. On the 1-hour guided tour, you’ll squeeze through narrow passageways, see ancient cisterns, and visit the Roman Theater, partially buried under modern homes. Tours start at Piazza San Gaetano 68 (Spanish Quarter) and run daily (€10-15). A surreal journey into Naples’ underground past!
ℹ️ Visit Napoli Sotterranea official website.
MUST-TRY STREET FOOD IN NAPLES
Naples is a street food paradise, offering a variety of delicious and very affordable bites that reflect the city’s rich culinary traditions. Here’s a list of must-try street food in Naples:
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Pizza a Portafoglio
A classic Neapolitan pizza folded into quarters (like a wallet) for easy eating on the go.
-
Cuoppo
A paper cone filled with fried goodies like fried fish, arancini, crocchè, and fried vegetables.
-
Frittatina di Pasta
A crispy, golden deep-fried pasta ball filled with creamy béchamel, savory ham, and sweet peas.
-
Pizza Fritta
Pizza dough is stuffed with ricotta, salami, and mozzarella, then deep-fried to golden perfection.
-
Mozz. in Carrozza
A fried mozzarella sandwich, crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. A cheesy delight!
-
Pagnottello
A traditional bread roll known for its soft, airy interior and slightly crispy crust.
Are you ready to indulge in this one-day Naples itinerary? I am genuinely excited for you to experience it! As always leave a comment below if you have any questions, or would like to share your tips.
Traveling to other parts of Bel Paese? Check out our Italy Travel Guide!
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