3 Days in Naples Itinerary: The Insider’s Guide

Looking for the perfect 3 day Naples itinerary for a long weekend in the Campania city? Keep reading…

Naples is a city of contrasts—gritty yet grand, chaotic yet captivating. It’s a place where centuries-old churches sit beside buzzing street markets, where opulent palaces hide in the shadows of laundry-strung alleyways, and where pizza is more than just food—it’s a religion.

With three days in Naples, you can soak up its rich history, indulge in world-class cuisine, and even venture beyond the city to the ruins of Pompeii, the glamorous Amalfi Coast, or the islands of Procida or Ischia.

If you’re only interested in staying within Naples itself, two days can be enough, but for the full experience, three is ideal.

I recently spent a week in Naples under the strict recommendations of my Neapolitan neighbors in Puglia, who insisted I visit not just the famous sights but also the under-the-radar places that locals love. Naples has been on my Italy list for years, and this trip deepened my appreciation for just how much the city has to offer.

From luxury stays to hole-in-the-wall trattorias, this Naples itinerary guide is a curated take on how to experience Naples in style.

*This Naples 3 day itinerary guide may contain affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Is Naples Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, but the city isn’t for everyone. Naples is not the polished, postcard-perfect Italy of Rome or Florence—it’s raw, vibrant, and unapologetically real. Some travelers dismiss it as too chaotic, too gritty, or just a stopover en route to the Amalfi Coast, but that’s a mistake.

Beneath its frenetic energy lies a city of immense beauty, layered history, and a food scene that is arguably the best in Italy.

Yes, the traffic is wild, and some areas feel a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of what makes Naples so thrilling. It’s a city that hasn’t lost its soul to mass tourism. Whether you’re wandering through the elegant boulevards of Chiaia, diving into the street food culture of the Centro Storico, or admiring the breathtaking views from Posillipo, Naples has an energy unlike anywhere else in Italy.

Best Time to Visit Naples, Italy

Naples is a destination that offers something unique in every season. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, with warm but comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Summer brings peak season, higher hotel rates, and hotter weather, though the city remains more manageable than other major Italian destinations. August can be particularly warm, and many locals leave for the coast, giving the city a slightly quieter feel.

Winter, especially around Christmas, transforms Naples with festive lights, bustling streets, and intricate presepi (nativity scenes) displayed throughout the historic center. However, January and February tend to be colder, rainier, and less vibrant.

For the best balance of good weather, cultural events, and a dynamic local scene, late April to June or September to October is ideal. I was in Naples last in October, and it was a perfect time to visit.

Getting To and Around Naples

Naples is well connected by air, rail, and road, making it an easy destination to reach. Naples International Airport (NAP – Capodichino) is located just a short drive from the city center, with direct flights from major European cities and some long-haul destinations.

Taxis operate from the airport, but the most efficient option is the Alibus shuttle, which runs frequently and connects the airport to Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale) and the port (Molo Beverello) for those continuing to the islands.

For those arriving by train, Napoli Centrale is one of Italy’s major railway hubs, with high-speed trains connecting to Rome in just over an hour and to other key cities like Florence, Milan, Bologna, Bari, and Venice. The station is well connected to the city’s metro, buses, and taxis, making onward travel easy.

Once in Naples, walking is the best way to explore the Centro Storico, as many of the main attractions are within a compact area. However, for longer distances, the Naples Metro is an excellent option, with modern stations like Toledo and Università considered some of the most beautiful in Europe.

Trams and buses also operate throughout the city, though traffic congestion can make them slower than expected. Taxis are available, but it’s recommended to use official taxi stands or book through a reliable app to avoid overcharging.

For exploring beyond Naples, the Circumvesuviana train provides an easy connection to Pompeii, Herculaneum, Caserta, and Sorrento, while ferries from Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa offer routes to Capri, Ischia, and Procida.

Private drivers or car rentals can be useful for visiting the Amalfi Coast, though driving in Naples itself is best left to locals due to the city’s chaotic traffic.

Where to Stay in Naples

Naples has a growing selection of stylish boutique hotels, luxury stays, and design-led guesthouses, making it easy to experience the city in comfort and style. Whether you prefer a sleek, contemporary hotel, a historic palace, or a sea-view retreat, the city offers accommodations to suit every kind of traveler.

Romeo Hotel – A strikingly modern five-star hotel blending sleek design with high-end amenities. Located near the port, it features a rooftop pool, Michelin-starred dining at Il Comandante, and a world-class spa, making it one of Naples’ most refined stays.

Artemisia Domus – A boutique hotel in the heart of the historic center, offering a peaceful retreat within a beautifully restored noble residence. With elegant, contemporary interiors, a small wellness area, and personalized service, it’s perfect for those looking for a refined stay in the lively Centro Storico.

Grand Hotel Vesuvio – One of Naples’ most iconic luxury hotels, with a prime seafront location overlooking the Bay of Naples. Open since 1882, it has hosted royalty, celebrities, and statesmen. Guests can enjoy panoramic views, impeccable service, and classic Italian elegance, with easy access to Castel dell’Ovo and the Lungomare promenade.

Primo Piano Posillipo – A hidden gem in the upscale Posillipo district, offering boutique-style accommodations in an exclusive residential area. The rooms are stylish and modern, with stunning sea views, and the location is perfect for travelers seeking a more tranquil setting away from the city’s hustle yet still within easy reach of the center.

Where to Eat in Naples

Naples is one of the world’s great food cities, from its legendary pizza, with its perfectly charred crust and simple yet flavorful toppings, to fresh seafood dishes like spaghetti alle vongole, fried calamari, and branzino cooked to perfection.

Street food culture thrives here, with must-try specialties like cuoppo, a paper cone filled with crispy fried seafood or vegetables, and frittatina di pasta, a golden-fried ball of pasta stuffed with béchamel and ham.

Traditional Neapolitan dishes are equally impressive, from ragù Napoletano, a slow-cooked meat sauce served with thick paccheri pasta, to the rich and comforting pasta alla Genovese, made with slow-braised onions and beef.

And, of course, no visit is complete without indulging in Naples’ famous pastries—sfogliatella, a crisp, layered pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, or babà al rum, a fluffy, rum-soaked sponge cake that perfectly complements an afternoon espresso.

Restaurants & Pizzerias

• Starita – One of the best pizzerias in Naples, serving inventive yet traditional Neapolitan pies.
• Da Fofo – Superb little neighborhood restaurant in Vomero with fantastic pasta dishes.
• Mimì alla Ferrovia – An old-school Neapolitan institution, famous for its pasta alla Genovese.
• Palazzo Petrucci – Naples’ Michelin-starred fine dining spot, offering stunning sea views and modern Italian cuisine.
• La Locanda Gesù Vecchio – A no-frills, chaotic, but incredibly fun trattoria serving hearty Neapolitan classics.
• L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – The legendary pizzeria made famous by Eat, Pray, Love. Expect long lines, but it’s worth it.

Cafés & Pastry Shops

• Gran Caffè Gambrinus – The most famous café in Naples, perfect for espresso and sfogliatella in a historic setting.
• Pintauro – The best place to try fresh, flaky sfogliatella, Naples’ signature pastry.
• Scaturchio – A Naples classic known for its delicious pastiera and rum-soaked babà.

3 Day Naples Itinerary for First-Timers

Naples Itinerary- Day One

Day one of this Naples 3 day itinerary is all about immersing yourself in the city’s historic center, where the city’s rich past and dynamic street life converge. From grand churches and hidden chapels to bustling markets and architectural wonders, this part of the city is a sensory overload in the best way possible.

Historic Center

Naples’ historic center, or Centro Storico, is a maze of narrow streets, centuries-old palazzi, and hidden courtyards brimming with character. This UNESCO-listed district is the beating heart of the city, where Baroque churches sit beside graffiti-covered walls and the scent of espresso filters through the streets.

Walking through its ancient streets is like peeling back layers of history, with each turn revealing something unexpected—whether it’s a tiny, family-run pizzeria, an ornate chapel, or a lively piazza – walking through it is a great way to get familiar with Napeoletan life.

This area is best explored on foot, wandering down Spaccanapoli, the long, straight road that divides the old city in half. Here, daily life unfolds in a way that feels almost theatrical—shopkeepers shouting their wares, locals chatting from their balconies, and scooters weaving effortlessly through the chaos. It’s an unfiltered, raw version of Italy that makes Naples so captivating.

When in the historic center here are a few Naples attractions and sights not to miss.

Naples Duomo

One of the city’s most important landmarks, the Duomo di Napoli, or Naples Cathedral, is a stunning mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. While the exterior is impressive, it’s the interior that leaves the biggest impact, with soaring columns, intricate frescoes, and an atmosphere of deep reverence.

The cathedral is best known for housing the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, which contains the vials of blood belonging to Naples’ patron saint. Three times a year, locals gather here to witness the Miracle of San Gennaro, where the saint’s dried blood is said to liquefy.

The event is taken seriously by Neapolitans, as the failure of the miracle is believed to predict disaster. Even outside of these ceremonies, the chapel is a breathtaking sight, filled with intricate gold and silver decorations that reflect Naples’ religious devotion and artistic mastery.

Via San Gregorio Armeno

Naples is famous for its elaborate nativity scenes, and Via San Gregorio Armeno is where the magic happens. This narrow, bustling street is lined with artisan workshops that craft presepi, or nativity figurines, year-round.

While traditional nativity figures of the Holy Family, shepherds, and the Three Wise Men are the main focus, these artisans also add a humorous twist—many shops display figurines of celebrities, politicians, and even footballers, making for a quirky mix of the sacred and the contemporary.

Even if you’re not in the market for a nativity set, this street is worth visiting just for its atmosphere. It’s one of the most unique streets in Naples and offers a fascinating insight into the city’s blend of tradition and creativity.

Museo Cappella Sansevero

Tucked away in the historic center, the Museo Cappella Sansevero is home to one of Naples’ most extraordinary sculptures—the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino. This breathtaking marble masterpiece depicts Christ lying beneath a finely carved veil so delicate and lifelike that it appears translucent.

The level of detail in the folds of the fabric and the contours of Christ’s body is mesmerizing, making it one of the most admired sculptures in the world.

The chapel itself is a work of art, filled with symbolic frescoes, intricate stuccoes, and other sculptures that play with illusion and perspective. The most enigmatic feature of the museum, however, lies beneath the chapel—the anatomical machines, two eerily preserved skeletons with exposed circulatory systems, shrouded in mystery and legend.

To visit the Sansevero Chapel, you’ll need to book tickets online in advance as the daily number of visitors is limited. Tickets sell out days, if not weeks, in advance sometimes, so it’s best to do it as soon as you can. Unfortunately, I have no photos of the interior as they are strictly prohibited.

San Domenico Maggiore Church

Sitting in one of Naples’ most important squares, San Domenico Maggiore is an often-overlooked gem that holds centuries of history. Built in the 13th century, this grand Gothic church has been the site of royal burials, theological debates, and even secret societies.

Inside, the church’s high ceilings and detailed frescoes create a striking atmosphere. The side chapels house elaborate tombs of Aragonese royalty, while the sacristy contains a stunning collection of Renaissance paintings.

But perhaps the most intriguing aspect is its connection to Giordano Bruno, the philosopher who was tried for heresy and burned at the stake—his time in Naples and his radical ideas left a lasting impact on the city’s intellectual history.

This church, often quieter than many of Naples’ more famous landmarks, is the perfect place to soak in the city’s deep spiritual and artistic legacy.

Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara

This was one of my favorite places to visit in Naples, a quiet escape from the constant buzz of the city. The Majolica Cloister is what makes it special—rows of ceramic columns painted in soft blues, yellows, and greens, surrounding a peaceful garden. The light here is incredible, bouncing off the tiles and giving the whole space a warm, almost golden glow.

The church itself is simple, with a Gothic interior and a small museum displaying artifacts from its past, including remnants from the original structure that was heavily damaged in World War II. But the highlight is definitely the cloister, where the combination of color, open space, and quiet makes it one of the most beautiful and underrated spots in Naples.

Gesù Nuovo Church

From the outside, Gesù Nuovo looks almost fortress-like, with its unusual diamond-patterned façade. But step inside, and the contrast is dramatic—lavish Baroque interiors, intricate marble inlays, and golden altars create one of the most ornate churches in Naples.

Originally built as a palace before being converted into a church, Gesù Nuovo is a place where art and mysticism intertwine. The interior is filled with hidden symbols and Masonic references, making it a fascinating place for those interested in esoteric history. Among its treasures is the tomb of Saint Giuseppe Moscati, a physician and humanitarian who was canonized for his medical miracles.

The church is located in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, one of Naples’ most picturesque squares, where locals gather, street musicians play, and the city’s historic atmosphere is at its most vibrant.

Via Pignasecca Market

For a taste of Naples’ street food culture, head to Via Pignasecca Market, the city’s oldest and most authentic food market. Located just off Via Toledo, this lively market overflows with stalls selling fresh seafood, local cheeses, seasonal produce, and traditional Neapolitan snacks.

The best way to experience it is to graze as you go—grab a frittatina di pasta, a deep-fried pasta fritter filled with béchamel, ham, and cheese, or try a cuoppo, a cone of mixed fried seafood. Of course, pizza frita (fried pizza) is also a staple. The market is also a great place to stock up on local specialties like buffalo mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and baba al rum.

Toledo

End the day at Toledo, home to one of the most famous metro stations in Italy. The Toledo Metro Station is a striking piece of underground art, featuring a ceiling installation that resembles a glowing blue vortex, evoking the sea and sky.

Above ground, Via Toledo is one of Naples’ main shopping streets, filled with everything from high-street fashion to small, independent boutiques. As evening falls, enjoy an aperitivo at one of the nearby cafés before heading to dinner at one of Naples’ renowned pizzerias.

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Naples Itinerary – Day Two

Spend Day two of your Naples itinerary diving into another side of Naples, exploring the lesser-visited but historically rich Rione Sanità before moving into the city’s grander, more regal areas.

From Baroque palaces and ancient artifacts to grand piazzas and iconic theaters, this day offers a mix of Naples’ aristocratic past and its raw, energetic present.

Rione Sanità

One of the most fascinating neighborhoods in Naples, Rione Sanità is an area that many visitors overlook, but it quickly became one of my favorite parts of the city. This is where Naples feels raw and authentic—market stalls spill onto the streets, kids chase each other through alleyways, and locals sit on their doorsteps watching the world go by.

The neighborhood has a complex history, originally built as a burial site for ancient Greeks and Romans, later becoming a noble district, and eventually transforming into a working-class area with a strong community spirit.

Wandering through Rione Sanità, you’ll find incredible Baroque palaces, local street art, and some of the best street food in the city. This is where Totò, one of Italy’s most beloved comedians, was born, and the area still carries a sense of old-school Naples that hasn’t been touched by mass tourism.

It’s a place that feels completely alive, and if you want to experience the city beyond its grand piazzas and tourist sights, this is where to go for a morning walk and to grab a coffee.

Catacombs of San Gennaro

The Catacombs of San Gennaro offer a fascinating glimpse into Naples’ underground history, with a network of ancient burial chambers dating back to the 2nd century. Located beneath Rione Sanità, these catacombs are larger and more elaborate than their Roman counterparts, featuring beautifully preserved frescoes, intricate mosaics, and early Christian tombs carved into the volcanic rock.

The site is also closely tied to San Gennaro, Naples’ patron saint, whose remains were once housed here before being moved to the cathedral. Walking through the dimly lit tunnels, with their vast underground basilicas and layers of history, feels like stepping into a hidden world beneath the modern city.

Palazzo dello Spagnolo

Tucked away in the heart of Rione Sanità, Palazzo dello Spagnolo is one of the most beautiful and unusual buildings in Naples. Its standout feature is the grand staircase, an elegant, sweeping structure that zigzags up the central courtyard, framed by intricate Baroque stucco decorations. It’s the kind of place that stops you in your tracks.

Built in the 18th century, this palace was originally a noble residence and was later divided into apartments. Despite its grandeur, it remains a lived-in space, with laundry hanging from balconies and locals casually passing through.

The contrast between its aristocratic design and the everyday life unfolding around it makes it even more interesting to visit. It’s a quick stop but absolutely worth seeing, especially if you’re already exploring Rione Sanità.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli

The Naples National Archaeological Museum (MANN) is home to one of the most important collections of Greco-Roman artifacts in the world, and if you have even a slight interest in history, it’s a must-visit on a Naples 3 day itinerary.

Many of the best-preserved mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures from Pompeii and Herculaneum are housed here, making it the perfect place to explore before (or instead of) visiting the actual ruins.

The Farnese Collection is one of the highlights, featuring colossal statues from ancient Rome, including the impressive Farnese Hercules and Farnese Bull, both masterpieces of classical sculpture. The Secret Cabinet, a small but fascinating room, contains a collection of ancient Roman erotic art that was once considered too scandalous to be displayed.

This museum can feel overwhelming because of its sheer size, so it’s best to focus on the highlights unless you’re a serious archaeology enthusiast. Even just spending an hour or two here offers a glimpse into the art, culture, and everyday life of the ancient world.

Piazza del Plebiscito

No visit to Naples is complete without stopping at Piazza del Plebiscito, the city’s most famous square. It’s a vast, open space flanked by two of Naples’ most significant buildings: the Royal Palace of Naples on one side and the Church of San Francesco di Paola on the other, with its grand colonnades resembling Rome’s Pantheon – both are well worth a visit.

The sheer scale of the square is impressive, and unlike many of Naples’ narrow, chaotic streets, this area feels open and airy.

Surrounding the square are plenty of cafés and restaurants (Gran Caffè Gambrinus is a must for a coffee and sfogliatella), making it a great spot for a mid-afternoon break before heading to the next stop.

San Carlo Theatre

Naples’ Teatro di San Carlo is not just the oldest continuously operating opera house in the world—it’s also one of the most beautiful. Opened in 1737, this grand theater predates even Milan’s La Scala and remains one of the most important opera houses in Europe.

Stepping inside, the interior is breathtaking—six tiers of private boxes, each lined in red velvet and gold, encircle the auditorium, leading up to a dazzling frescoed ceiling. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the architecture alone is worth experiencing.

Galleria Umberto I

Right next to the San Carlo Theatre, the Galleria Umberto I is one of Naples’ most stunning architectural landmarks. This grand shopping arcade, built in the late 19th century, features a soaring glass and iron dome, intricate mosaic flooring, and ornate facades that make it feel more like an art gallery than a shopping center.

Although the shops inside are a mix of high-street brands and tourist-oriented stores, the real reason to visit is the design. The way the light filters through the massive glass ceiling creates a constantly shifting play of shadows and reflections, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

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Naples Itinerary – Day Three

The final day of this Naples itinerary takes you away from the chaotic streets of the historic center and into the city’s hilltop neighborhoods, where panoramic views, elegant villas, and a slower pace define the atmosphere.

Vomero is a chic, residential district known for its leafy streets and sweeping city views (where I based myself for this Naples itinerary), while Posillipo, on the coast, is where Naples reveals its most scenic, upscale side.

Vomero

Perched above the city, Vomero offers a completely different feel from the Naples below. It’s more residential, quieter, and home to grand 19th-century buildings, spacious piazzas, and some of the best views in town. While it doesn’t have the same chaotic charm as the historic center, it’s a great place to take a breather and enjoy a more local side of Naples.

The best way to get here is by funicular, one of the city’s hill-climbing cable cars that operate from different parts of Naples. Funicolare Centrale from Via Toledo is the most convenient, taking you up in just a few minutes. Once at the top, the pace shifts dramatically—wide boulevards, stylish boutiques, and an almost Parisian feel contrast sharply with the Naples of Spaccanapoli and Rione Sanità.

Certosa e Museo di San Martino

Sitting high above the city, Certosa e Museo di San Martino is one of Naples’ most beautiful and underrated spots- my favorite place in the whole city. Originally a Carthusian monastery, it has since been transformed into a museum that showcases Naples’ history, art, and religious heritage.

The complex is an architectural masterpiece, with elaborate cloisters, grand halls, and some of the best-preserved frescoes in the city.

The highlight, though, is the Belvedere Terrace, which offers a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Naples, stretching all the way from the historic center to the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius beyond. The combination of history, art, and breathtaking scenery makes this an essential stop in Vomero.

It’s the kind of place where you linger longer than planned- I was here for hours, taking in the quiet beauty away from the city’s usual chaos.

Castel Sant’Elmo

Just a short walk from the monastery, Castel Sant’Elmo dominates the Naples skyline. This massive, star-shaped fortress dates back to the 14th century and has served various purposes over the centuries, from a military stronghold to a prison.

The real reason to visit, though, is the 360-degree panoramic view from the top. This is hands down the best viewpoint in Naples—offering an unobstructed look over the entire city, the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and even the islands of Capri and Ischia on a clear day.

It’s especially stunning in the late afternoon when the golden light gives the city an almost surreal glow.

After having visited the Certosa e Museo di San Martino, I felt that a visit to Castel Sant’Elmo wasn’t a must, as the views are fairly similar, so if you are visiting just for the views, this one might be one to skip if you’re pushed for time.

Explore Posillipo

After spending the morning in Vomero, head to Posillipo, Naples’ most scenic and elegant district. Stretching along the coast, Posillipo is where the city meets the sea, with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and luxurious villas perched above the sparkling blue water. It’s a part of Naples that feels almost cinematic—peaceful, exclusive, and worlds away from the chaos of the historic center.

The best way to explore is by heading towards Parco Virgiliano, a stunning park that offers yet another panoramic view, this time directly over the Gulf of Naples. Unlike the more famous viewpoints in the city, Parco Virgiliano feels undiscovered, mostly filled with locals enjoying the sea breeze and sunset views.

If time allows, take a detour down to Gaiola Beach, a hidden cove with crystal-clear waters and a view of Gaiola Island, a tiny abandoned island surrounded by local myths and legends. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in Naples, though access is limited due to conservation efforts.

For a final meal in Naples, Tufò Trattoria in Posillipo is a fantastic spot for fresh seafood and local dishes, or 50 Kalò for one final Napoleatan pizza.

If You Have More Time…

For those who can manage an extra day in Naples, a day trip beyond the city offers the perfect opportunity to explore more of the region’s history, nature, and stunning coastlines. You can also amend this Naples, Italy itinerary to spend two days in the city and the third on a day trip.

Two of the best options are a deep dive into ancient Roman history with visits to Herculaneum and Pompeii, or a more relaxed day by the sea on the colorful island of Procida or the thermal paradise of Ischia.

Option One: Herculaneum & Pompeii

Visiting both Herculaneum and Pompeii in one day is entirely possible, as the two sites are located relatively close to each other along the Circumvesuviana train line that runs from Naples to Sorrento. Each offers a glimpse into life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, but they have very different atmospheres.

Herculaneum

Smaller and better preserved than Pompeii, Herculaneum feels more intimate and immersive. Unlike Pompeii, where the eruption buried the city in ash, Herculaneum was covered in volcanic mud, which preserved wooden structures, furniture, mosaics, and even carbonized food.

The result is a town that looks almost frozen in time, with two-story houses, colorful frescoes, and intricate mosaics still largely intact.

Walking through the Casa dei Cervi or the beautifully preserved House of the Wooden Partition, it’s easy to imagine what life was like for Herculaneum’s wealthy residents.

The public baths, with their mosaicked rooms, offer another incredible look into daily life, while the eerie sight of skeletons found at the ancient shoreline reminds visitors of the human tragedy that unfolded here.

Pompeii

In contrast to Herculaneum, Pompeii is vast and overwhelming in scale. Covering over 150 acres, it’s an entire city frozen in time, complete with streets, public squares, shops, villas, and even an amphitheater. It’s impossible to see everything in one visit, so it’s best to focus on a few key sites.

Must-sees include the Villa of the Mysteries, with its striking frescoes, the Forum, which was once the political and social hub of Pompeii, and the haunting Plaster Casts of Victims, which provide a sobering look at the final moments of the city’s residents. Walking through Pompeii is a surreal experience, and while parts of it feel like an open-air museum, other areas retain a haunting sense of life interrupted.

Both sites are worth visiting, but if time is limited, Herculaneum is the better option for a shorter, more immersive experience, while Pompeii offers the grand scale of an ancient Roman city. I personally preferred Herculaneum.

Many tours run from Naples to both Herculaneum and Pompeii, often led by archaeologists, experts in their field. If you prefer not to visit alone, this Pompeii and Herculaneum Small Group tour with an Archaeologist is a must.

Option Two: Procida, Ischia, and/or Capri

For a completely different kind of day trip, escaping to the islands of Procida or Ischia is the perfect way to experience the laid-back side of the Bay of Naples. Both islands are accessible by ferry from Molo Beverello in Naples, with travel times ranging from 40 minutes (Procida) to just over an hour (Ischia).

Procida

One of Italy’s most picturesque islands, Procida is famous for its pastel-colored fishing villages and authentic, unspoiled charm. Unlike Capri, which draws luxury-seekers, Procida remains a quiet, local island where life moves at a slow pace.

The best way to experience Procida is to wander through Marina Corricella, the postcard-perfect harbor lined with fishermen’s houses in shades of pink, yellow, and blue. It’s the kind of place where you sit at a waterfront café with a granita and simply soak in the view.

For those wanting to explore further, Terra Murata, the island’s highest point, offers sweeping views over the Gulf of Naples.

Procida is small enough to see in just a few hours, making it an ideal half-day trip for those who want a relaxed, low-key escape before heading back to Naples.

Read more: Best Things to Do in Procida: A Complete Island Guide

Ischia

Larger and more diverse than Procida, Ischia is famous for its thermal spas, sandy beaches, and lush landscapes. The island has long been a retreat for Italians looking for relaxation, thanks to its natural hot springs and thermal baths.

For history lovers, Castello Aragonese, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky islet, is a must-visit. The views from the top are spectacular, and the castle itself has centuries of fascinating history to uncover. For those looking to unwind, Negombo Thermal Park or Poseidon Gardens offer a luxurious way to soak in the island’s famous thermal waters.

Ischia also has some of the best food in the region, with a focus on fresh seafood and local specialties like coniglio all’Ischitana, a slow-cooked rabbit dish that showcases the island’s rustic culinary traditions.

Capri

For those looking for a glamorous island escape, Capri is another fantastic day trip option from Naples. Just a 50-minute ferry ride from Molo Beverello, Capri is known for its dramatic cliffs, luxury boutiques, and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery. The island has long been a favorite retreat for artists, writers, and celebrities, and it still carries an air of exclusivity.

One of the most famous sights is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where the sunlight creates an ethereal blue glow inside the water. While undeniably touristy, the experience of gliding through the cave on a small boat is still magical.

For incredible panoramic views, take the chairlift up to Monte Solaro, the island’s highest point, or hike the scenic Via Krupp to admire the rugged coastline.

Capri Town itself is a mix of high-end boutiques, elegant cafés, and hidden alleyways, while Anacapri, the quieter, more authentic side of the island, offers charming streets and traditional trattorias. While Capri is undeniably beautiful, it is also the most crowded of the islands, so visiting in the shoulder seasons or early in the morning is ideal to avoid peak crowds.

More Top things to do in Naples, Italy:

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