One Day in Naples Itinerary – Top things to do in Naples, Italy

Both chaotic and artistic, the largest city in southern Italy offers a little something for everyone. With its world-class monuments, archaeological treasures, Italy’s best pizza and electrifying street life, Naples is all but dull. There is, however, something indescribable that makes this place so very mesmerizing, something that needs to be experienced in person to get a real sense of the Neapolitans and why they love their city so much. And while one day in Naples may not seem like enough time to explore everything, it’s just enough to fall under its spell. Follow this itinerary and prepare for something truly special!

One day in Naples Itinerary

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Day Trips From Naples, Italy
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Plan your trip

1. What’s the best time to visit Naples?
2. A few facts about Naples
3. One Day in Naples Itinerary
3.1. Start your day with a coffee and sfogliatella
3.2. Stroll around the historic centre
3.3. Visit Il Duomo (The Cathedral)
3.4. Discover the hidden world of Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground)
3.5. Stop at Sorbillo’s to eat the original Napoli pizza
3.6. Check out the Gesù Nuovo church unique facade
3.7. Explore the Ancient Art at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale
3.8. Stroll Via Toledo and visit Toledo Metro station
3.9. Visit Galleria Umberto I and Piazza del Plebiscito
3.9.1. Visit the Castles
3.9.2. Spend a night at Piazza Bellini
4. Where to stay in Naples?
5. Day trips from Naples
6. Extra tips for visiting Naples

What’s the best time to visit Naples?

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Even though Italy’s always been one of the world’s best summer destinations, Naples is a brilliant winter break destination, too. It enjoys a mild, southern climate, which makes winters pretty enjoyable. If you want to enjoy sunny weather and still avoid tourist crowds, however, the best time to visit Naples would be May or late September.

As for the events, know that religion plays a fairly significant role in the city’s life, so holidays like Christmas or Easter offer plenty to see and experience. Festa di San Gennaro is dedicated to the city’s patron saint and falls on September 19, so count yourself lucky if you’re in town on that day. Maggio dei Monumenti is a spring festival dedicated to the city’s art, and Napoli Film Festival is also worth checking out in the fall.

Naples
Naples, Author: Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar, Source: Flickr

A few facts about Naples

Italy’s third-largest city, capital of the Campania region and one of the oldest cities in the country is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its historic centre, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is the largest in Europe.

Over the centuries, especially during the Renaissance and Enlightenment eras, Naples was a major cultural centre and its rich historic architecture shows that vividly. It’s often called an open-air museum, due to many historic monuments and archaeological sites, including the Roman ruins of Pompeii in the immediate vicinity.

You may be surprised to know that Naples’ funicular was opened in 1928 and is today one of the largest in the world. Do try and hitch a ride on it if you can!

Naples
Naples, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

One Day in Naples Itinerary

Welcome to the heart of the Mediterranean! This quintessentially Italian city will delight you with food, art, architecture and a very special vibe that makes you feel so alive no matter if you’re a native or not. Through this itinerary, you will see which things you have to see and do during your one day in Naples, and once you’re done, you will be very much aware that you’ve witnessed something special.

TIP: If you are looking for organized sightseeing, food or day trip tours in/from Naples check GetYourGuide.

Start your day with a coffee and sfogliatella

Before you even start your one day in Naples, treat yourself to a shot of a strong espresso. Even though all of Italy is known for its great coffee, the best one is still served in Naples. Find a patisserie that serves sfogliatella and try this shell-shaped filled Italian pastry, originally from the region of Campania.

Stroll around the historic centre

Try to explore the Old Town as early as possible in order to avoid all the crowds that come later in the day. A great way to do that is by booking a room at Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel. Follow the Spaccanapoli (Via San Biagio dei Librai) – the narrow, straight street that splits the historic centre in two. The street offers plenty of patisseries and souvenir shops you can browse, as well as many historical buildings and churches.

Visit Il Duomo (The Cathedral)

Follow Via Duomo all the way to the Cathedral of Naples dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. The church was originally built in Gothic style, but was reconstructed and renovated in other architectural styles over the centuries. The church keeps the blood of Naples’ patron saint, San Gennaro. It’s kept in a little flask that’s supposed to liquefy twice a year in front of the crowd. The spectacle is called the Miracle of Saint Gennaro.

Cathedral of Naples
Cathedral of Naples, Author: Andrea Schaffer, Source: Flickr

Discover the hidden world of Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground)

Many Italian cities are actually built on previously existing underground cities. Napoli is not an exception. Napoli Sotterranea includes the ruins of underground structures built by ancient Greeks and later developed by the Romans. From Roman forums to Roman markets, you can witness the centuries of civilisation, all under the existing city of Naples. Prepare yourself for a 90-minute exploration full of imagination and mystery.

Napoli Sotterranea
Napoli Sotterranea, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

Stop at Sorbillo’s for lunch to eat the original Napoli pizza

Pizza, the most famous Italian dish, originated in Napoli. You can still taste the original pizza taste in one of many Naples’ pizzerias. The best one, Sorbillo, offers several types of pizzas for a really fair price. Be prepared for long lines if visiting during peak season, but once you get seated, you won’t wait more than 5 minutes to get your pizza. Try the basic one with basil, tomato and mozzarella. In case you want to skip the long lines and still taste an amazing pizza, visit Solo Pizza.

Pizza Napoletana
Pizza Napoletana, Author: City Foodsters, Source: Flickr

Check out the Gesù Nuovo church unique facade

Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo was first built as Palazzo Sanseverino in the 15th century and was later converted into a 16th-century church. Giuseppe Valeriani designed its unique facade, covered in pyramid shapes that create a unique visual experience. It’s a great place to snap a few photos, too.

Explore the Ancient Art at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale

Out of many museums and galleries in Naples, Museo Archeologico Nazionale is the most impressive one. It houses the world’s finest collection of ancient Greco-Roman arts and artifacts, including the most impressive Roman finds of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Colorful Pompei frescos and mosaics, early Greek sculptures, Herculaneum bronze finds – it’s all there. Don’t skip the secret room – a collection of saucy ancient erotica. You can skip waiting in line by getting your ticket now.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale
Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

Stroll Via Toledo and visit the Toledo metro station

Via Toledo is the most famous shopping street and the best place to indulge in the city’s vivid atmosphere. Stroll the Toledo street, visit some of the Italian brand shops and finally, don’t miss checking out the Toledo metro station.

Around Via Toledo
Around Via Toledo, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

This station won the LEAF Award ‘2013 as “Public building of the year” and according to CNN is the most beautiful metro stop in Europe. Check it out to see why.

Toledo Metro Station
Toledo Metro Station

Visit Galleria Umberto I and Piazza del Plebiscito

Via Toledo actually offers more surprises. Galleria Umberto I offers exclusive shopping experience in a high and spacious cross-shaped structure with a glass dome, the luxurious building that resembles the one in Milan. Even if you’re not into shopping, passing trough this arcade gallery is a must.

Finally, visit Piazza del Plebiscito, one of the most iconic public places in Naples embraced by the impressive facades of the Palazzo Salerno, Royal Palace & Church of San Francesco di Paolo. Grandeur of historical architecture makes this Piazza an interesting place to see and a great photo opportunity.

Piazza Plebiscito
Piazza Plebiscito, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

Visit the Castles

Naples is home to many forts and castles, and two of them are really worth a visit even if spending only one day in Naples. The Castel dell’Ovo, located at the end of the lungomare, is the oldest one, dating from the 12th century. The name of the castle can be translated as “Castle of the egg”, and this is because, according to a legend, there is a magical egg hidden somewhere in the castle. The egg’s powers protect the castle and the city of Naples.

Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, Author: Charlie, Source: Flickr

The second one, Castel Nuovo, overlooks the port and was built at the end of the 13th century. If you’re not up for an inside tour, checking the seaside area and the beautiful promenade is still a great thing to do in Naples. The area is especially beautiful at sunset, so make sure to plan your one day in Naples right so you don’t miss it.

Seaside Promenade Naples
Seaside Promenade, Author: Andrea Tosatto, Source: Flickr

Spend a night at Piazza Bellini

Naples is famous for its lively piazzas (squares) where both locals and tourists gather until the early hours. Piazza Bellini is a great choice not just because of the nice bars and restaurants, but because you also meet a lot of interesting locals and musicians who hang around the mini park in the centre. If you’re looking for a place for dinner, Azzuppa, Etto and Un Sorriso Integrale Amico Bio (vegetarian) are all excellent choices.

There are many nice beer shops, so even if you’re travelling on a budget you can have quality Italian beers for a fairly low price. Il Birraiuolo is a fantastic place for beer-lovers, and Bellini 9 is an awesome pub. There are plenty of other awesome places nearby, though, so do go and explore if beer is not your thing. And once you’re done, just head to Hotel Piazza Bellini for some well-deserved rest.

Where to stay in Naples?

To make the most of your one day in Naples, it’s always a good idea to invest some time into finding the right accommodation. On short trips like this, every minute counts, so it would be really handy to have a hotel that saves you a lot of time. That being said, you may need to book a hotel near Naples International Airport if you have an early flight. However, if that’s not the case, book one in the city, preferably near a major attraction. We’ve compiled a list of some truly fantastic hotels, and booking a room with one of them will add a lot to your Naples experience.

TIP: Click here to find the best accommodation deals in Naples.

Hotel NapoliMia Naples

Hotel NapoliMia

Via Toledo 323 Scala A – 2° Piano, Plebiscito, 80132

Hotel NapoliMia should be a great pick since it’s located in one of the busiest and most interesting streets in Naples – Via Toledo. The hotel is pretty close to the Toledo station and many other city attractions, plus they serve an amazing breakfast in the morning.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel Naples

The Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel

Via Benedetto Croce 23, Naples Historic Center, 80134 Naples, Italy

The Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel is even more central, located in the heart of the historic centre. Antique furniture, tasteful interior, interesting art is what describes this boutique hotel best. Not to mention their amazing breakfast. You shouldn’t miss the fantastic views from the roof terrace either.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Caruso Place Boutique & Wellness Suites

Caruso Place Boutique & Wellness Suites

Via Toledo 256, Plebiscito, 80100 Naples, Italy

Caruso Place Boutique & Wellness Suites is a new stylish boutique hotel that combines modern designs with antique details and furniture. It’s centrally located, literally on Via Toledo, right across Galeria Umberto I. The spacious rooms provide unique and comfortable stay.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Piazza Bellini

Hotel Piazza Bellini

Via S.M. Di Costantinopoli 101, Naples Historic Center, 80134 Naples, Italy

Located on Piazza Bellini, Hotel Piazza Bellini is perfect for city exploration and sightseeing. Set in a 16th-century building, hotel combines modern design with artistic elements. Uniquely decorated rooms bring extra comfort.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

NeapolitanTrips Hotel Royale

NAP Hostel Spaccanapoli

Via Pasquale Scura 26/E, 80134 Naples, Italy

Backpackers (and all other travellers looking for affordable accommodation in Naples) rejoice! NAP Hostel Spaccanapoli is a wonderful place to stay, with a garden, a balcony for each room, and an excellent breakfast served every day. The location is also extremely good for sightseeing, so there will be nothing stopping you from exploring the city thoroughly.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Day trips from Naples

Naples is a beautiful and interesting city and spending one day there is truly a blessing, no doubt about that. However, there are many things to be seen outside of it. Setting off on a day trip from Naples is a great idea no matter what kind of tourist you are, and some of these locations really are a must.

Pompeii

Obviously, Pompeii has to be number one on your list. This ancient Roman city was completely destroyed when the nearby volcano erupted, but this calamity has also preserved it in an incredible state and you can clearly see how ancient Romans lived. The volcano, Mount Vesuvius, can also be seen up close – climb all the way up for a spectacular view. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe.

Book here

Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast is an absolutely beautiful strip of land, full of picturesque villages and serene little towns. If you really want to get away from it all, head over here and enjoy the scenery. Of course, you can also enjoy the beaches in the area, and the locals will always be friendly. Lunch in a place on this coast seems like a perfect idea, but just grabbing a snack and strolling down a street of a small Italian town should be more than enough to help you recharge your batteries.

Islands in the Bay of Napoli

If you fancy a trip across the Bay of Napoli, you won’t be disappointed. You can head to the island of Capri, for example, and visit the famous Blue Grotto and enjoy more scenery characteristic for southern Italy – beautiful little villages and deep blue sea. Ischia is also a great choice, though. The largest island of the bay is full of thermal waters, so relaxation is the name of the game here. Pamper yourself a bit and come back to the city completely rejuvenated.

Sorrento

Visiting Sorrento is another excellent way to enjoy yourself in an absolutely mesmerizing surroundings. Cobbled roads, lovely shops, great food loads of beaches will provide you with absolutely everything you need. And yet, you will be able to relax because you will be far from a big city. This destination offers a little bit of everything that makes this part of Italy so unique and attractive. You simply can’t go wrong!

Caserta Royal Palace

Travel back in time with a visit to this magnificent palace from the 18th century. Caserta belonged to Bourbon rulers and has 1200 rooms, incredible gardens and everything else you’d expect from a place like this. Take a peek into the royal suites, check out the huge ballroom and see firsthand how nobles used to live. Known also as Italian Versailles, this magnificent piece of architecture is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Extra tips for visiting Naples

-Here at One Day Itinerary, we always take all possible precautions when making a trip. We did so for this one too, since we know that while this is a very safe destination, there are always things that can go wrong and ruin your holiday. World Nomads helped us out a whole lot in this respect because we were able to buy travel insurance from them quickly and pretty much effortlessly. So if you too are looking for someone to provide you with peace of mind when traveling, we highly recommend getting it from this website.

-The traffic can get crazy in Naples. Whether you’re just crossing the street, even on the marked place, you need to watch out for the cars. Sometimes they just don’t care for the pedestrians at all.

-If visiting Napoli Sotterranea, bring a long-sleeve shirt. It can get cold down there.

-Watch your wallet! Pickpocketing, especially around tourist attractions, is very common so you better keep your cash, credit cards, phone and other valuables concealed.

-Unlike many European cities, there’s no strict dress code when visiting religious sites, so you can enter even if wearing short clothes.

DISCLAIMER: Through our articles we link out to recommended hotels/tours/products/services. If you happen to purchase anything through these links, we will receive a commission. It won’t cost you anything extra, but it will help us running the site in the best possible way. Thank you!

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Anca One Day Itinerary
Anca B.
Travel writer at One Day Itinerary

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

5 comments

  1. I also only had a day in Naples. It is amazing how much you can pack into a day if you are determined. I love the sfogliatella! I would have stayed longer just to have more of those :-). Reading this brought back fond memories of my visit.

  2. I will be staying at the Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel next summer for 2 nights. What are you favorite places close to the hotel? Restaurants, stores, etc?

  3. I am visiting Naples next week, and your post will be very helpful! I hope to have a chance to see most of the city’s sights. Naples looks really wonderful! Thanks for sharing!

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