Discovering the Charm of Naples in 3 Days!
Naples (or Napoli) is a city brimming with loud energy, rich history, and passionate cuisine. Located in the southern part of Italy, Naples offers a perfect blend of ancient wonders and a circus like excitement. The people in Naples have a zest for life, family is really important to them, and everyone loves to have a good time. The city is not the most efficient (or clean), but if you can go with the flow of things you will have an extraordinary time! Here’s how we made the most of our trip to Naples!
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
Stay: Hostel in Ponti Rossi
Since we were trying to squeeze every dollar we could out of our travel budget we stayed in a hostel called Naples Experience Hostel. It was located on the outskirts of the city and in full transparency it was not the nicest area to stay. The hostel itself was clean enough, and we actually got lucky with our own room. However, if your willing to spend a little bit more we would suggest staying in the Vomero area or Spanish Quarters.
Morning
We started our morning at the iconic Gran Caffe Gambrinus, known for having the best cappuccino in the world! They also have delicious pastries and sweets. This place is pricey compared to other cafes in Naples, but the beautiful building makes the upcharge worth it.
After breakfast, our first stop was the Basilica of Saint Francesco, where we played a fun game that one of our local friends told us is a Neapolitan tradition: one of us would be blindfolded, spun around, and then try to walk between two statues without peeking. It was a hilarious and memorable way to experience the basilica’s grandeur.
Next, we walked to the seaside boardwalk (10 minutes), taking in the stunning views of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. The sight of the majestic volcano looming over the bay was truly awe-inspiring.
Midday
For lunch, we went to Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, renowned for its Neapolitan pizza. Established in 1738, it’s one of the world’s oldest pizzerias. We savored the classic Margherita pizza, with its thin, chewy crust, fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil – perfection!
In the afternoon, we headed to Stadio Diego Armando Maradona to watch a Napoli soccer game. We took the metro to Piazza Leopardi, and from there, it was a short walk to the stadium. The energy of the crowd was incredible as Napoli won 4-0, making it an exhilarating experience.
After the game, we stopped at Pasticceria Rosticceria Luciano Mazzone for sweet pastries and an afternoon pick-me-up. The coffee here was phenomenal – one of the best cappuccinos of my life. It was so good, that we made sure to go back here when we went to Naples again earlier this year!
Evening
We spent the evening walking around the bustling streets of Naples, soaking in the lively culture. The vibrant street life and friendly locals made for an unforgettable experience.
For dinner, we ate at A Cucina Ra Casa Mia, where we enjoyed authentic Neapolitan cuisine. We had Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams) and Pesce Spada (swordfish), both of which were delicious.
Day 2: Historical Explorations in Pompeii
Morning
We began our second day at Piazza Dante, a famous square where locals gather to hang out. We enjoyed coffee and pastries at Pasticceria Calemma Dolci Momenti, savoring their delicious corneto and sfogliatella.
After, we took a train to Pompeii, having ordered our tickets in advance, which made the entrance process smooth. Using Rick Steves’ free audio guide, we learned about the history preserved in time by Mount Vesuvius’s eruption.
Midday
Walking through the ancient ruins of Pompeii was like stepping back in time. We marveled at the preserved streets, homes, and even the plaster casts of the eruption’s victims, gaining a deep appreciation for this historical site.
On our way back to Naples, we grabbed some fried pocket pizzas from a street vendor – a delicious and convenient snack.
Evening
We spent the night at Piazza Bellini, enjoying drinks and aperitivos. The vibrant atmosphere of this square, filled with locals and tourists alike, made it a great place to unwind.
Day 3: Castles, Markets, and More
Morning
Our third day started with a visit to Ovo Castle, an ancient fortress with a fascinating history. Legend has it that the castle’s name, meaning “Egg Castle,” comes from a magical egg placed in its foundation by the Roman poet Virgil. The castle’s strategic location offers stunning views of the bay.
Next, we did some window shopping at Galleria Umberto I. Built between 1887 and 1890, it’s an architectural masterpiece that reflects the grandeur and elegance of the 19th century. Named after King Umberto I of Italy, the gallery was part of an urban renewal project aimed at modernizing Naples and boosting its status as a cosmopolitan city.
We then walked around San Gregorio Armeno, a street famous for its nativity scenes. The intricate figurines and detailed displays make for great souvenirs and shows the Neapolitan pride of their local craftsmanship.
Midday
For lunch, we headed to Osteria 11 Gobbetto, where we enjoyed traditional Neapolitan dishes in a cozy setting. And then we grabbed gelato at Mennella il Gelato, this place was recommended to us by a local friend and we really enjoyed it.
Our next stop was the Toledo Metro stop, known for being the most beautiful in Europe. The station’s stunning blue mosaics and artistic design make it a must-see.
Evening
We strolled through Pignasecca Market, enjoying the sights, smells (a little fishy haha), and lively people. The market is a great place to experience local life and find fresh produce, street food, and unique souvenirs.
We ended our adventure with more Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria I Decumani. The pizza here was the perfect conclusion to our culinary journey in Naples.
Conclusion
Naples exceeded our expectations with its blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, and incredible food. The city feels full of rich history and culture. The people here are full of character and some of the most fun and hospitable people you will ever meet. Our three day trip was a great balance of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and delicious food! We hope it can help make your experience all the more memorable!
Dining
- Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba $$ World-famous for its Neapolitan pizza, a must-try for any pizza lover.
- A Cucina Ra Casa Mia $$ Authentic Neapolitan cuisine with dishes like Spaghetti alla Vongole and Pesce Spada.
- Osteria 11 Gobbetto $$ Cozy eatery serving traditional Neapolitan dishes.
- Pizzeria I Decumani $ Delicious Neapolitan pizza, perfect for a final meal in Naples.
Cafés
- Gran Caffe Gambrinus $$ Historic café known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee.
- Pasticceria Rosticceria Luciano Mazzone $ Great spot for sweet pastries and exceptional cappuccino.
- Pasticceria Calemma Dolci Momenti $ Delicious Corneto and Sfogliatella, perfect for breakfast.
FAQs:
What are the must-see attractions in Naples? Must-see attractions in Naples include the historic Pompeii ruins, the iconic Mount Vesuvius, and the beautiful Ovo Castle. Don’t miss the vibrant street life and delicious Neapolitan pizza!
How many days should I spend in Naples? Spending 2-3 days in Naples (depending on if you do a day trip to Pompeii) allows you to explore its main attractions, enjoy its vibrant culture, and savor its culinary delights.
What is the best time of year to visit Naples? The best time to visit Naples is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable.
How can I skip the lines at popular attractions in Naples? To skip the lines at popular attractions like Pompeii and the San Carlo Theatre, purchase tickets online in advance or book a guided tour: https://pompeiisites.org/en/visiting-info/timetables-and-tickets/
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Naples? The historic center, Vomero, and Chiaia are among the best neighborhoods to stay in Naples, offering a mix of historic charm, well connected transit, and a lively nightlife.
How do I get around Naples? Naples has a well developed public transportation system including metro, trams, and buses that make getting around the city easy and convenient. Hourly, daily, weekly and monthly tickets can be purchased at any tobacco shop (tabaccheria).
What to eat in Naples? For a memorable dining experience, try Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba for world-famous pizza or A Cucina Ra Casa Mia for authentic Neapolitan cuisine. Both restaurants are celebrated for their excellent food and welcoming atmosphere.
