Self-Guided Naples Pizza Tour: The Best Pizza in Naples
Thinking about heading out on a Naples pizza tour? Here are my recommendations for the best pizza in Naples, Italy so you can create your own, self-guided pizza tour of the city.
Naples is a city that runs on passion—passion for history, chaotic street life, the glittering bay that stretches beyond its shores, and, of course, for pizza. This isn’t just food here; it’s an institution, a birthright, a source of fierce local pride.
Nowhere else in the world will you find pizza made with such devotion, where every element—the long-fermented dough, the San Marzano tomatoes, the hand-pulled mozzarella—is treated with almost religious reverence.
It’s the kind of pizza that’s meant to be eaten fresh from the wood-fired oven, so hot it nearly burns your fingers, yet so impossibly soft and flavorful that you don’t even care.
Fortunately, living in Italy—just a four-hour drive away in Puglia—I have plenty of access to the best. This guide is the result of countless tastings, endless debates, and a deep appreciation for the craft of Neapolitan pizza-making.
Whether you prefer the historic institutions that have been slinging pies for over a century or the newer spots shaking things up, this list has you covered to create your own Naples pizza tour. I’ve also included the best gluten-free pizza in Naples too.
Read more: Where to Stay in Naples, Italy: Best Areas & Hotels
History of Pizza in Naples, Italy
Naples is where pizza was born—not the polished, globalized version served on stone slabs in trendy pizzerias, but the real thing: a blistered, wood-fired marvel with a soft, almost soupy center, and an irresistible balance of tangy tomato, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
The origins of pizza here are as much about survival as they are about culinary brilliance. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Naples was a densely populated, working-class city, and street food was the sustenance of choice for laborers who needed something cheap, filling, and easy to eat on the go.
Pizza was their answer—sold by vendors carrying trays through the streets or baked in makeshift roadside ovens. It wasn’t fancy, but it was perfect.
Then, in 1889, everything changed. Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples, and one of the city’s most respected pizzaioli, Raffaele Esposito, prepared three different pizzas for her to sample. The queen’s favorite? A simple yet striking pie topped with red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil—an edible tribute to the Italian flag.
In her honor, Esposito, supposedly named it pizza Margherita, and in that moment, Neapolitan pizza transformed from a humble street food into a national icon.
Despite its rise in status, the soul of Neapolitan pizza has never changed. The city’s pizzaioli remain fiercely loyal to tradition, perfecting their dough through slow fermentation, baking each pizza in wood-fired ovens that reach over 900°F, and serving them with the kind of casual confidence that only comes from centuries of practice.
UNESCO even recognized Neapolitan pizza-making as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, cementing its legacy as one of Italy’s greatest culinary achievements. Today, a pilgrimage to Naples isn’t just about tasting pizza—it’s about experiencing the birthplace of an art form that has shaped global gastronomy.
Choosing the Best Pizzerias in Naples
Some of you might wonder how I came about choosing the best pizza in Naples, Italy. As a travel writer, that involved a huge amount of research and then a huge amount of trying and tasting. Tough job, I know but you have to eat your way through the city—one blistered, bubbling, perfectly charred pie at a time.
Living in Italy (in Puglia, to be exact), I’m also lucky enough to be surrounded by two sets of Neapolitan neighbors, who, when they heard about my quest, eagerly threw in their own local recommendations—the kind of places that don’t always make the guidebooks but are fiercely loved by those who know pizza best.
Beyond that, I made it my mission to talk to as many locals as possible—hoteliers, Airbnb hosts, taxi drivers, bartenders—because if there’s one thing Neapolitans have strong opinions on, it’s where to find the best pizza.
And then, of course, there was the eating. I dedicated a large portion of my last trip to Naples to trying as many pies as possible, from the historic institutions that have been slinging pizzas for over a century to the new-wave spots pushing the boundaries of tradition. The result? A definitive list of the best pizzerias in Naples—each one worth every last bite.
The Best Pizza in Naples Italy: My Naples Pizza Tour Stops
The Classic Pizzerias
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Let’s start with the obvious: L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is probably the most famous pizzeria in Naples, thanks to Julia Roberts blissfully devouring a whole pizza here in Eat, Pray, Love.
Da Michele has been around since 1870, and they’ve kept things almost stubbornly simple: just two types of pizza—Margherita and Marinara. No frills, no toppings, no requests for extra mozzarella (don’t even try). They believe in the purity of pizza, and to be fair, they do it exceptionally well.
The dough is impossibly soft, light as air, and the balance of sweet San Marzano tomatoes, creamy fior di latte mozzarella, and fragrant basil is, for lack of a better word, divine.
However, there will be a line. A long one. You’ll take a ticket and wait, possibly outside, possibly squished between other hungry pizza pilgrims (head to the bar opposite for an aperitivo while you wait). But once inside, you’ll find a no-nonsense, old-school pizzeria where everything is about efficiency—tables are shared, orders are taken in rapid-fire Italian, and the pizza arrives almost before you can process what’s happening. And then, of course, there’s the first bite—the kind that immediately justifies the wait and the hype.
That said, is it the best pizza in Naples, Italy? That depends on who you ask. Some locals swear by it, while others will tell you it’s overhyped and that there are better, less touristy places to go (which I’ll get to later). But as a piece of pizza history and a comparison benchmark? It’s a must.
Even if just once, you have to come here, order a Margherita, and eat it like Julia Roberts—because in that moment, you will understand the meaning of true pizza happiness.
Pizzeria Starita a Materdei
If Da Michele is the Hollywood star of Naples’ pizza scene, Pizzeria Starita a Materdei is the local legend—the kind of place where you’ll find more Neapolitans than tourists, and that alone should tell you everything. Tucked away in the Materdei district, this historic pizzeria has been around since 1901, serving some of the best pizza in the city without the same blockbuster fame (or chaotic lines) as its more touristy counterparts.
The menu here is a little more adventurous than the traditional spots—yes, the classic Margherita and Marinara are excellent, but Starita is best known for its Montanara, a lightly fried pizza before it’s baked to perfection, creating a crisp-yet-airy bite that is truly next level.
There’s also the Angioletti—strips of fried pizza dough served with fresh tomatoes and arugula, which I’d argue is one of the greatest snacks ever invented.
Service is warm but fast-paced (this is Naples, after all), and while there might be a wait, it moves quickly. If you’re after a spot that locals swear by (this is where my neighbors go), where the pizza is consistently outstanding, and where you won’t feel like you’re on a tourist-focused Naples pizza tour, Starita is the place to go.
Pizzeria Gino e Toto Sorbillo
If there’s one name that comes up again and again when talking about Naples’ best pizza, it’s Sorbillo. Pizzeria Gino e Toto Sorbillo is one of the city’s most famous institutions, known for its impossibly thin, perfectly charred dough and high-quality, organic ingredients. This place is all about tradition but with a slightly more polished, modern feel compared to the old-school legends like Da Michele.
The pizza here is textbook Neapolitan—airy, soft, and served with just the right amount of char from the roaring wood-fired oven. Their Margherita D.O.P. is a must-try, featuring rich San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil. But honestly? You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Be prepared to wait—there’s almost always a line stretching down the street, and they don’t take reservations. But once you get inside, the energy is electric, the service is quick, and the pizza is absolutely worth it. If you’re looking for a classic Naples pizza experience with a bit of a buzz, Sorbillo is a great spot to visit on your Naples pizza tour.
Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo
Tucked along the chaotic, history-filled Via dei Tribunali, just steps from Naples’ Duomo, Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo is a Naples institution that does two things exceptionally well—classic Neapolitan pizza and irresistible street food.
It’s the kind of place where you’ll find a mix of locals, tourists, and the occasional politician (Bill Clinton famously ate here in 1994), all crammed into the no-frills dining room or grabbing a quick bite at the takeout counter.
Their pizza is everything you want it to be—light, pillowy dough with the perfect leopard-spot char and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. The Margherita is a solid choice, but if you’re feeling indulgent, go for my favorite, the Margherita with nduja—a Margherita with spicy nduja salami straight from Calabria, that might just change your life.
Service can be a little chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. Whether you grab a whole pizza to sit down with or just a quick bite to go, Di Matteo delivers some of the most authentic flavors in the city.
La Vera Pizza Fritta da Gennaro
If you want to experience Naples’ street food scene at its finest, La Vera Pizza Fritta da Gennaro is a must. Tucked away in the bustling Toledo district, this tiny, no-frills stall specializes in the best fried pizza in Naples—a deep-fried, golden pocket of dough stuffed with a range of fillings such as ricotta, provolone, and tomato, then sealed and crisped to perfection.
Forget about sitting down—this is the kind of place where you order at the counter, grab your bubbling-hot pizza, and eat it right there on the street, as it should be.
Pizza fritta is Naples in its rawest, most unapologetic form—greasy, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. And while plenty of places do a great version, Da Gennaro keeps it old-school, serving up some of the best in the city without the fanfare. It’s cheap, it’s quick, and it’s pure, deep-fried heaven.
Pizzeria Da Attilio
Tucked away in the lively Spanish Quarter, Pizzeria Da Attilio feels like one of Naples’ best-kept secrets—though locals have known about it for decades. Unlike the big-name spots that draw endless crowds, this family-run pizzeria has a more intimate, neighborhood feel, with Attilio Bachetti himself often at the helm, crafting pizzas with the kind of care that comes from generations of experience.
When I ate here, I went straight for their signature Pizza Carnevale—a beautifully charred, star-shaped pizza with ricotta-stuffed crust points, balancing richness with the freshness of San Marzano tomatoes and silky mozzarella. It was hands-down one of the most memorable pizzas I’ve had in Naples.
If you prefer something more traditional, the Margherita here is flawless, and the Pizza Carrettiera (sausage and broccoli) is a local favorite that I’d highly recommend.
With its relaxed, welcoming vibe and perfectly executed pizzas, Da Attilio is the kind of place where you linger just a little longer than planned—because when the pizza is this good, there’s no reason to rush.
Modern, Upscale Pizzerias
50 Kalò
If there’s one pizzeria in Naples that combines precision, quality, and consistency, it’s 50 Kalò. Helmed by master pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo, this spot is all about the science of dough—slow fermentation, perfect hydration, and a light, airy crust that almost melts in your mouth. Located in the Mergellina district, just a short walk from the seafront, it’s a sleek, modern take on the classic Neapolitan pizzeria.
The Margherita D.O.P. here is flawless, but if you want something different, try the Pizza di Scarole, topped with escarole, olives, capers, and anchovies—a nod to Naples’ culinary heritage. The ingredients are top-tier, the service is efficient, and the pizzas arrive perfectly blistered every time.
With a more contemporary vibe than the old-school institutions, 50 Kalò is ideal for those who appreciate the craft of pizza-making at its finest. It’s not just hype—this is one of the best in the city.
Il Colmo Del Pizzaiolo
Recommended by a local hotelier who insisted I check it out, Il Colmo Del Pizzaiolo in Vomero is where tradition meets innovation. Run by Federico Guardascione, this stylish spot pushes Neapolitan pizza into new territory. Guardascione is known for his creative flavor combinations, high-quality ingredients, and beautifully plated pizzas that push the boundaries of what Neapolitan pizza can be.
I tried the Gialla D.O.P., a bright, delicate pie with yellow tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, and the Tartufata, a rich mix of truffle, fior di latte, and prosciutto—both outstanding. But the real surprise? Some of the best gluten-free pizza in Naples. A gluten-intolerant travel companion gave it full marks, praising its light, doughy texture—virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.
Less rustic than the city’s classic pizzerias, Il Colmo Del Pizzaiolo is perfect for those looking for a refined take on Naples’ most iconic dish while exploring the neighborhood of Vomero.
Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria
For a more refined take on Neapolitan pizza, Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria offers something special—top-tier ingredients, masterful technique, and a stunning setting overlooking the sea at Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. As the casual offshoot of the Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci Restaurant, this pizzeria takes a more gourmet approach while staying true to Neapolitan tradition.
The dough is expertly fermented for a light, airy texture, and the toppings showcase the best local produce. The Margherita is flawless, but if you want something unique, go for the Pizza Flor di Zucca, featuring zucchini flowers, anchovies, ricotta, and fior di latte—a bold, flavor-packed bite.
With its elegant setting and elevated flavors, Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria is perfect for those looking to experience Naples’ pizza scene in a more polished, scenic atmosphere.
Pizzeria Salvo
If you’re looking for a classic, no-gimmicks Neapolitan pizza experience, Pizzeria Salvo is the place. Located in San Giorgio a Cremano, just outside the city center, this family-run pizzeria has been perfecting the art of pizza-making for generations. Unlike the more tourist-heavy spots in central Naples, Salvo attracts a loyal local crowd who come for the impeccably balanced dough, top-quality ingredients, and flawless execution.
The Margherita here is outstanding, but the real highlight is their Cosacca—a simple yet deeply flavorful pizza topped with aged pecorino and tomato sauce, a nod to Naples’ older, pre-mozzarella pizza traditions. The fried starters, like the frittatina di pasta (fried pasta with béchamel and ham), are also a must.
With its relaxed, neighborhood feel and a commitment to quality that rivals the big names, Pizzeria Salvo is well worth the short trip out of the city center for an authentic, no-fuss Neapolitan pizza experience.
How to Put Together Your Naples Pizza Tour
If you’re heading to Naples on a short trip, the best way to experience its pizza scene is by making your own Naples pizza tour of the city. Save all these recommendations onto a Google Map and pop into each pizzeria as you explore its neighborhood.
Some spots have long lines, so having a few options in mind means you won’t go hungry. Try a different classic at each stop—start with a traditional Margherita, then move on to a Marinara, and maybe even a Montanara (fried pizza) if you’re feeling indulgent.
Note that in general, pizza is something Italians eat in the evening and not at lunchtime, however, things in Naples tend to be a little different and you’ll find most pizzerias to be open for lunch. However, it would still be wise to check opening hours before heading over.
Top Naples Pizza-Making Tours & Experiences
Eating pizza in Naples is one thing—learning how to make it yourself is another. If you want to go beyond just tasting and dive into the craft behind Neapolitan pizza, there are plenty of hands-on experiences where you can roll up your sleeves, work with real pizzaioli, and master the art of the perfect dough.
These tours and workshops take you inside traditional pizzerias or family-run kitchens, where you’ll learn the secrets of authentic pizza-making—from kneading and stretching the dough to working a wood-fired oven.
While it’s easy enough to head out on your own Naples pizza tour with my recommendations, it might be fun to sign up for a pizza-making class to hone in on skills you can take home with you. Here are my recs for the best pizza-making tours in Naples, Italy.
Ready to begin your pizza tour of Naples and experience the best pizza in Naples, Italy? Have any questions or comments about your trip? Let me know in the box below.
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