Naples city breaks

Colourful, chaotic and full of character, Naples is a genuine gem. The vibrant street theatre of daily life plays out on a UNESCO-stamped stage, brimming with history and more churches than you can imagine. And that’s before you get to the ancient archaeological gems on the city’s doorstep – Pompeii and Herculaneum, we’re looking at you. You’ll get a taste of real-deal Italy in Naples – scour open-air markets, pick up a slice of pizza and grab an espresso to go. Want to relax? That’s where the seafront prom, Lungomare, and its Vesuvius vistas comes in. But Naples doesn’t just look to its past. Contemporary art galleries, a cool bar scene and underground art are all signs this soulful city is very much stepping into the modern age. And it’s ready to stir your senses…

Eat the perfect pizza

The city’s claim to fame is the Pizza Margherita. A wood-fired base topped with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil make up this world-famous dish. Legend has it the pizza was first created in 1889 for Queen Margherita who wanted the colours to match the Italian flag. You’ll find this street snack everywhere, but our insiders tell us the best place to try it is L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele.

Go underground

To really get under the skin of this city, you need to go underground. Running below the busy streets above, the sacred Catacomba di San Gennaro is an extensive network of narrow alleyways. An ancient burial chamber for saints, bishops and noblemen, a walk through these caves will give you a compelling insight into the city’s reverent religious faith.

Dazzling day trips

Base yourself in Naples and you can fill your days with trips to see some of southern Italy’s best bits. Venture to the beautiful Amalfi Coast, cruise out to stunning Capri or experience the baroque splendour of the Royal Palace of Caserta. You can even catch the train up to Rome and see two cities in one go!

Best Western Hotel Paradiso

Naples City, Naples

Our rating

Based on 1791 reviews

Spectacular views over the Bay of Naples
Rooftop restaurant
Elegant rooms
Convenient for public transport links
Quieter residential location

Hotel Rex

Naples City, Naples

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Based on 1433 reviews

Close to the waterfront
300m from the Castel dell'Ovo
Historic Art Nouveau building
Central location
Friendly atmosphere

Hotel Royal Continental

Naples City, Naples

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Our rating

Based on 3641 reviews

Naples waterfront location
Overlooking Castel dell'Ovo
Restaurant with sea views
Close to bars, restaurants and shops
Great service

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L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele

Naples

Founded in 1870, this pizzeria's reputed as the best in Naples. So where else to go for pizza? There are only two items on the menu – marinara (seafood) and margherita (tomato and mozzarella). Come here...

Castel dell'Ovo

Naples

Naples’ oldest castle sits on the Borgo Mariano peninsula, with panoramic views of the coastline. Dating back to the 12th century, the island is famous as the first settlement of the Greeks, as well as home to...

Duomo di Napoli

Naples

Naples’ cathedral is the main church of Naples. Inside the chapel you’ll find ancient relics, artworks and statues of saints. The most famous – a vial of the blood of Saint Januarius – is brought out three...

Language

Italian

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£2 / €2.30

Three day public transport ticket

£14 / €16

Three course meal

£18 / €20.50

Sightseeing

With an intriguing patchwork of church-lined streets, the UNESCO-protected historic centre will bewitch you with its shabby-chic façade and amazing architecture. Soak up the street theatre atmosphere along the colourful Spaccanapoli, stroll along the Lungomare seafront promenade or discover the works of art in one of the many galleries.

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Eating and drinking

Do as the locals do and grab street food on the go – pizza, risotto balls and deep-fried seafood are all specialities. At night, head to the Chiaia district for an upmarket scene of aperitivo cocktails and nibbles, or for a more relaxed affair, the boho vibe of Piazza Bellini should fit the bill.

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Shopping

Street markets are a great way to shop in Naples. Soak up the swirls of colour at the atmospheric Via Pignasecca, with stalls selling everything from the freshest of seafood to the latest fashion. Things get a little more glam at the Galleria Umberto – a grand, glass-roofed arcade housing swanky designer boutiques.

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Getting around

Naples has an extensive public transport network of buses, trams and an underground metro, so navigating the city is really easy. Tickets are widely available from newsstands and tobacco shops, and you can buy single journey tickets or three-day passes for unlimited travel on all transport types.