Your cartWhether you are looking for great panoramic views, historical and archeological sites or tasty food, this is the right place for you. Obviously, only a weekend is not enough to see and know everything about Naples, but you will have time to discover its main highlights and relax!
You can choose to visit Naples in every season as normally you will find good weather and lots of things to do here. Also, its great location, near the seaside, gives the whole city a magical atmosphere, especially if you walk at sunset along what Neapolitans call “Lungomare”, a long promenade with a fascinating view.
If you are planning to stop in the charming Naples, here are our must-see places!
A walk in the city-center
First things first: let’s begin our Naples Tour strolling around in the city center and its little narrow roads. During your walk you will for sure discover the major characteristics of the city: besides small streets that resemble the ones from an old town, you will find huge squares and amazing panoramic views.
Naples in fact is located above sea level in a hilly area, for this reason it’s easy to see many ups and downs that characterize the districts of the city.
The real historical Neapolitan area is the one called “Quartieri Spagnoli”, that can be translated into English as “Spanish district”. This name comes from the people this zone was inhabited by in the 16th century. Spanish soldiers in fact were sent here by the Spanish government to control and rule over local people.
Although it was known also for crime, especially in the past, this area is worth a visit because it can be considered as the “heart” of the city.
Continue your walk towards the south and you will have the chance to admire one of Naples’ symbols: the super central Piazza del Plebiscito, just above the sea and the docks.
If you really want to admire Naples panorama at its best, you can’t miss Vomero and Posillipo district. This particularly luxurious area of the city is much higher above the shore level than the others and closer to the sea. That’s why visiting you will be breathless at the sight of the unique views that you will find here.
Pompeii and Vesuvius
A weekend in Naples can’t be complete without a tour of the archeological site of Pompeii and a trip to the volcanic mountain Vesuvius.
Pompeii is a historical location at 20 km distance from Naples and it’s known worldwide for the ancient volcanic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, that destroyed and erased any type of civilization here for a long time.
Many centuries ago Pompeii was a small town, part of the Roman Empire.
At the very beginning, Pompeii was ruled by local populations such as Etruscans and Samnites who fought against Romans and ultimately were forced to surrender to the Empire.
After the annexation of Roman territories, most of the Senators that used to live in the Capital city decided to move here, much to the disappointment of local people.
Roman people used to live here in the same places where nowadays there is the archeological site through which you can still walk and admire the original ancient ruins.
Pompeii’s old constructions and streets were built, in fact, according to Roman traditions. By taking a walk here you will quickly notice its resemblance to the city of Rome itself. It’s still possible to look at incredible frescos on the remains of Roman villas and stone walls. A visit to Pompeii is like stepping into a real life time machine!
The volcano Vesuvius erupted totally unexpected during an apparently normal day. That’s why atmosphere here seems to be frozen as it interrupted everyday life.
Nowadays it’s possible both to enjoy a tour to discover Pompeii and Vesuvius. The archeological site of Pompeii is open to visitors every day and it only takes 30 minutes from Naples city-center to get here.
Mount Vesuvius is a must see along your way towards Pompeii. By stopping here you will have the chance to admire an astonishing panoramic view over Naples Bay and shore, as well as the archeological town of Pompeii.
If you are very passionate about mountains and Volcanoes you will be able to visit Vesuvius by yourself and hike up it. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so we suggest you don’t miss it!
Christmas time in Naples: St. Gregorio Armeno
Have you already heard about Naples’ Christmas traditions? No? Well, we recommend you take your time with a walk in the characteristic area near St. Gregorio Armeno Church. Here you will find everything you may need to decorate your home and your Christmas tree.
St. Gregorio Armeno street is renowned for its specially handcrafted Christmas and Nativity products. Along the suggestive narrow roads, you will find for sure typical souvenirs, handmade statues of characters of the Nativity, colors and beautiful presents for people you love.
How to get there?
St. Gregorio Armeno street is located at the very center of Naples, near Spaccanapoli district and close to Dante metro station.
A taste of local food
Last but not least, during your trip to Naples there are some food products that are really unmissable! Whether you like the savoury or sweet food it is just the right place for you.
As you may know, Italy is known worldwide for its unique product: Pizza!
The origins of this delicious dish are in Naples area, so here you will be able to taste it in many different quality ways in one of the well-known restaurants.
Also sweet food lovers will be able to taste specialty products such as Neapolitan Babà, a small yeast cake with hard liquor and whipped or pastry cream. The best way to eat it is at the end of the meal accompanied by coffee, as real citizens of Naples would do it.
Planning a trip to Naples? Check our special Tours on Rome Private Guides website to discover all the offers! We will be glad to assist you and help you choose the visit that fits best your needs or to tailor make a tour that is perfect for you!
