Where to Stay in Naples, Italy: Best Areas & Hotels

Not sure where to stay in Naples, Italy? Here’s my take on the best area to stay in Naples, Italy and my top picks for luxury and boutique hotels in each.

After spending time extensively exploring Naples, I often get asked about the best places to stay. Naples is a vast and dynamic city, and choosing where to stay in Naples is just as important as deciding what to do in this captivating and culturally rich city. Different neighborhoods offer distinct benefits depending on your needs—whether it’s access to ferry ports, museums, or, perhaps most importantly, a legendary pizzeria just steps from your door.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of the Centro Storico, the upscale boutiques of Chiaia, or the breathtaking views from Vomero and Posillipo, each neighborhood offers a unique experience. 

If you’re here for a deep dive into Naples’ history and legendary cuisine, the more central neighborhoods put you right in the middle of it all. For those seeking a more refined and tranquil retreat, the waterfront elegance of Chiaia or the cliffside villas of Posillipo provide a luxurious escape. 

The Port of Naples is a strategic choice for those heading to the Amalfi Coast or the islands, while Piazza del Plebiscito and its grand hotels offer proximity to both the city’s cultural highlights and its scenic seafront. 

This guide explores the best areas to stay in Naples and the top hotels in each, ensuring that whether you’re here for a night or a week, you find the perfect base to experience the city’s vibrant charm.

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What is the Best Area to Stay in Naples?

The best area to stay in Naples, Italy, ultimately depends on the nature of your trip. If you’re simply stopping over before heading to the Amalfi Coast or catching a ferry to Capri, Ischia, or Procida, staying near the Port of Naples or the Historic Center makes the most sense, offering easy access to transport hubs while still immersing you in the city’s vibrant energy.

The Centro Storico (Historic Center) also places you within walking distance of ancient churches, lively piazzas, and Naples’ legendary pizzerias. 

If your visit is centered on exploring Naples itself—diving into its history, art, and incredible food—then the Historic Center is the most atmospheric choice (for those that like being surrounded by the action), while Vomero offers a quieter, more elevated perspective of the city with sweeping city views and excellent funicular connections. 

For those returning to Naples after prior visits and looking for a different experience, Posillipo provides a luxurious, tranquil retreat away from the urban bustle, with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples, exclusive villas, and cliffside hotels.

If you’re after elegance, boutique shopping, and seafront views, Chiaia is the city’s most upscale district, lined with designer stores and chic cafés. 

Those looking for a central, well-connected location should consider Piazza del Plebiscito, home to grand hotels and easy access to Naples’ best cultural sites. 

If you’re in transit for just one night, the area around the train station (Garibaldi) is serviceable for convenience, but it lacks the charm and attractions found elsewhere in the city.

Best Areas to Stay in Naples, Italy

Chiaia

Chiaia is Naples’ most sophisticated and upscale district, known for its elegant streets, designer boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Located along the seafront, this stylish neighborhood is home to high-end shopping streets like Via dei Mille and Via Chiaia, where international luxury brands and independent Italian designers showcase their latest collections. 

The area also boasts some of the city’s best restaurants and cocktail bars, making it a perfect spot for refined dining and aperitivo culture. Villa Comunale, a picturesque seaside park, offers a scenic escape with views over the Bay of Naples, while the nearby Lungomare promenade is ideal for a leisurely evening stroll. 

Art lovers can explore the contemporary exhibitions at the PAN (Palazzo delle Arti Napoli), and those seeking a taste of local tradition can visit historic cafés like Gran Caffè Gambrinus (also part of the

Piazza del Plebiscito zone). Chiaia is the ideal base for travelers looking for a more polished and relaxed Naples experience, a base that’s also close to all the city’s main sights. 

Historic Center of Naples (Centro Storico)

The Historic Center of Naples (Centro Storico) is the beating heart of the city, a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with history, culture, and an unmistakable energy. This UNESCO-listed district is where Naples’ layered past can be seen, from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to Baroque churches and grand palazzos.

Via dei Tribunali and Spaccanapoli, two of its most famous thoroughfares, are lined with centuries-old buildings, traditional trattorias, and iconic pizzerias like Sorbillo and Da Michele, serving what many claim to be the best pizza in the world. 

Among its countless landmarks, the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro) houses the city’s beloved patron saint’s relics, while underground, the Napoli Sotterranea reveals a fascinating network of tunnels and Roman aqueducts. 

Art lovers will find treasures at the Cappella Sansevero, home to the breathtaking Veiled Christ sculpture, and at the vast collection of antiquities in the Naples National Archaeological Museum. Bustling, chaotic, and endlessly captivating, the Centro Storico is a good place to stay for travelers eager to experience Naples’ raw authenticity, rich history, and legendary cuisine all within walking distance. 

For me personally, I found the historic center to be way too chaotic to stay in and was happy we chose to travel in for the day rather than stay in this area. If you’re more susceptible to noise and prefer quieter surroundings, I recommend choosing a hotel outside the historic center, but then again, if you only have one night, it could be fine. 

Vomero

Vomero is Naples’ elegant hilltop district, offering a quieter, more residential atmosphere with spectacular panoramic views over the city and the Bay of Naples. This is where I stayed on my last week-long trip to Naples. 

Perched above the bustling historic center, this refined neighborhood is known for its wide, tree-lined streets, stylish boutiques, and a mix of Art Nouveau and modern architecture.

One of its most striking landmarks is Castel Sant’Elmo, a medieval fortress that provides one of the best vantage points in Naples, overlooking the city’s rooftops and the shimmering coastline beyond. 

Nearby, the Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery turned museum – one of my favorite spots for photography in Naples-, showcases exquisite Neapolitan art and history in a breathtaking hilltop setting. Vomero is also a fantastic area for shopping, with Via Scarlatti and Via Luca Giordano lined with fashionable stores, trendy cafés, and lively local markets. 

Despite being slightly removed from the city’s chaotic energy, Vomero is well-connected by three funicular railways, making it easy to reach the historic center and waterfront in just minutes. On the metro, it only takes about 30 minutes to get to the center.

For anyone seeking a balance between Naples’ dynamic culture and a more relaxed, scenic retreat, Vomero is an ideal place to stay. The only downside is that there aren’t many luxury hotel options here; you’ll most likely need to go for an apartment rental. 

​Piazza del Plebiscito

Piazza del Plebiscito is the grand centerpiece of Naples, a sweeping, historic square that exudes elegance and grandeur. Flanked by the impressive colonnades of the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola and the stately Royal Palace, this vast piazza is a focal point of Neapolitan life and a prime location for visitors who want to stay in the heart of the city. 

From here, it’s just a short stroll to some of Naples’ most important landmarks, including the Teatro di San Carlo, Italy’s oldest opera house, and the historic Galleria Umberto I, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade. The area is also home to luxurious hotels, classic cafés like Gran Caffè Gambrinus, and some of the city’s finest restaurants. 

Staying near Piazza del Plebiscito means being perfectly positioned between the historic center and the seafront promenade, making it an excellent base for exploring Naples’ cultural treasures while enjoying easy access to the vibrant Lungomare and ferry terminals.

Ideal for those who want to be at the center of it all (yet not as hectic as the historic center), this area combines history, sophistication, and convenience in equal measure.

​Port of Naples

The Port of Naples is a bustling gateway to the city and beyond, making it an ideal place to stay for travelers heading to the Amalfi Coast or the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida. This waterfront area offers a mix of modern hotels and historic landmarks, all within easy reach of ferry terminals and cruise docks. 

While primarily a transport hub, the port is also home to notable attractions such as the Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), a striking medieval fortress that stands as a symbol of Naples’ maritime power.

Just a short walk away, visitors can explore the lively streets of the historic center or enjoy a scenic stroll along the Lungomare, Naples’ picturesque seaside promenade. 

The area also boasts a variety of seafood restaurants and cafés where you can savor fresh local dishes with a view of the bay and Vesuvius standing strong in the distance. While not as charming as other neighborhoods, the Port of Naples is a strategic and practical base if you have early departures or onward travel plans.

​Posillipo

Posillipo is Naples’ most exclusive and scenic district, far removed from the city’s bustling streets. The area offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

This elegant, residential neighborhood is known for its grand villas, cliffside hotels, and serene coastal ambiance, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking a more relaxed and luxurious stay. 

The area is dotted with hidden beaches and charming seaside spots, such as Baia delle Rocce Verdi and Gaiola Beach, where crystal-clear waters meet rugged cliffs. One of Posillipo’s highlights is Parco Virgiliano, a stunning hilltop park with panoramic terraces overlooking the Gulf of Naples, Capri, and the Sorrento Peninsula.

History lovers can explore the ruins of the ancient Roman villa at Pausilypon Archaeological Park, while food enthusiasts will find exceptional seafood restaurants perched along the coast. 

Though Posillipo is a bit removed from the city center, it’s perfect for returning visitors or those who want to experience Naples’ more refined and peaceful side while still being within easy reach of its vibrant culture.

Where to Stay in Posillipo

Primo Piano Posillipo – A charming bed and breakfast located in a 19th-century palazzo, featuring four uniquely designed rooms with vintage maritime decor, offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

BW Signature Collection Hotel Paradiso – A four-star hotel perched on Posillipo Hill, boasting panoramic vistas of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius, with modern rooms, a rooftop restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and easy access to Mergellina Marina for island excursions. 

Best Hotels in Naples, Italy

Selecting where to stay in Naples Italy depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for, whether it’s a seafront luxury retreat, a boutique hideaway in the historic center, or a hilltop stay with breathtaking views.

From five-star icons with Michelin-starred dining to intimate guesthouses filled with local charm, these are my top picks for the best luxury hotels in Naples across its most desirable neighborhoods, ensuring a stay that perfectly matches your trip.

ROMEO Napoli

Romeo Napoli is a striking fusion of contemporary luxury and cutting-edge design, offering a sleek, modern retreat in the heart of Naples.

Located near the Port of Naples, this five-star hotel is an ideal base for travelers heading to the Amalfi Coast or the islands while also providing easy access to the city’s historic and cultural attractions. It’s the perfect spot for just about any trip type. 

The hotel boasts refined accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, rooftop pools with panoramic views of the bay, and a world-class spa for ultimate relaxation. Culinary excellence is at the forefront here, with Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse Napoli, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving an elegant blend of French haute cuisine and Neapolitan flavors. 

Casa D’Anna ai Cristallini

Casa D’Anna ai Cristallini is a refined boutique guesthouse set within a beautifully preserved Baroque palazzo in the heart of Naples’ vibrant Rione Sanità district. Stepping inside feels like entering a bygone era, with antique furnishings, frescoed ceilings, and an intimate atmosphere that reflects the grandeur of Naples’ aristocratic past. 

Grand Hotel Vesuvio

Grand Hotel Vesuvio is a legendary five-star hotel that has been synonymous with luxury and elegance in Naples since 1882, but don’t worry, it has been renovated several times since then.

Overlooking the Bay of Naples, with breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, Capri, and the Castel dell’Ovo, this historic hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for over a century. 

Its refined rooms and suites blend classic Italian sophistication with modern comforts, many featuring private balconies with stunning sea views. The hotel’s crown jewel is Il Ristorante Caruso, an elegant rooftop restaurant serving fine Neapolitan and Mediterranean cuisine with a spectacular panoramic backdrop. 

Primo Piano Posillipo

Primo Piano Posillipo is a charming bed and breakfast nestled in Naples’ prestigious Posillipo district, offering a serene retreat with stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Housed in a 19th-century palazzo, this boutique accommodation features four uniquely designed rooms that blend vintage maritime décor with modern comforts.

Demetra Luxury Suites

Located in the heart of Naples’ elegant Chiaia district, Demetra Luxury Suites is a spot I recently came across in the city. The boutique hotel offers a luxurious and comfortable stay along the renowned Caracciolo seafront.

This refined bed and breakfast features five beautifully appointed rooms, each designed with modern aesthetics and equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. 

Some rooms boast balconies with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius, allowing you to soak in the picturesque scenery directly from their accommodations. You can enjoy breakfast in your room and take advantage of services like daily housekeeping and room service.

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