Make the most of your limited time in Naples with a well-planned one-day itinerary that covers the historic center in the morning, art and culture by afternoon, and stunning evening views.
A single day in Naples is a whirlwind, but it’s enough time to capture the city’s vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful essence. The city is a feast for the senses, from its world-class pizza to its ancient history. This itinerary focuses on the must-see sights, perfect for first-time visitors trying to decide what to see in Naples quickly.
What to do in naples italy in one day
This itinerary is designed to be easily walkable and efficient for those with one day in Naples.
Morning: History and Street Food (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Start at the Historic Center (Centro Storico): Begin your day on Via dei Tribunali, one of the main streets of the ancient Greek city. This area is ground zero for history and street food.
- Visit Duomo di San Gennaro (Naples Cathedral): Home to the famous vial of St. Gennaro’s blood, this cathedral offers a mix of architectural styles and is a key site for Neapolitan religious life.
- Wander Spaccanapoli: A long, straight street that literally “splits Naples” into two. It’s packed with churches, craft shops, and incredible atmosphere.
- See the Veiled Christ (Cristo Velato): A must-see. Located in the Cappella Sansevero, this marble sculpture is a breathtaking masterpiece of technical skill and emotional depth. Pro-tip: Book your ticket in advance, as queues can be long.
- Lunch Break: Grab a classic Neapolitan pizza at one of the legendary pizzerias (like Sorbillo or Di Matteo) or a quick, delicious fried pizza (pizza fritta) from a street stall.
Afternoon: Art and Grandeur (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Explore Piazza del Plebiscito: The city’s grandest square, framed by the Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale) and the majestic San Francesco di Paola church.
- Walk the Lungomare: Head toward the water and stroll along the scenic promenade (Via Partenope). Enjoy views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
- Castel dell’Ovo: Visit the oldest standing fortress in Naples, perched on the former island of Megaride. Admission is free, and the views from the ramparts are fantastic.
Evening: High Views and High Energy (5:00 PM Onwards)
- Dinner in the Quartieri Spagnoli: Explore the lively Spanish Quarters, known for their narrow streets, laundry lines overhead, and genuine Neapolitan vibe. It’s a great place to sample traditional dishes like ragù.
- Climb to the Vomero Hill: For the best possible view of the sunset over the city, the bay, and Vesuvius, take the funicular up to the Vomero district. Castel Sant’Elmo offers the most spectacular panoramic platform to cap off your day. This answers what to do in Naples Italy for a day with a perfect ending.
What to do in naples italy in 2 days
If you have 2 days in Naples itinerary and wonder is 2 days in naples enough, you can easily dedicate your extra day to more culture and a famous day trip.
Day 1: Follow the One-Day Itinerary Above
Day 2: Archaeology and an Ancient City
- Morning: National Archaeological Museum (MANN): Dedicate several hours to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli. It houses one of the world’s finest collections of Roman artifacts, many excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum. This is a crucial addition to what to do in Naples Italy in 2 days.
- Afternoon: Pompeii Day Trip: Take the Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii. Explore the vast ruins of the ancient city preserved by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. It’s an unforgettable experience and easily accessible from Naples.
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner back in Naples in the Chiaia district, known for its elegant restaurants and refined atmosphere.
What to do in naples for 3 days
With 3 days in Naples itinerary, you can slow down and explore the city’s underground and surrounding gems.
Day 1 & 2: Follow the Two-Day Itinerary Above
Day 3: Underground Naples and the Coast
- Morning: Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples): Discover the hidden world beneath the modern city. Explore the ancient Greco-Roman aqueducts, air-raid shelters, and tunnels. It offers a fascinating perspective on the city’s long history.
- Afternoon: A Coastal Getaway: You have two great options:
- Herculaneum (Ercolano): A smaller, more intimate, and better-preserved ruin than Pompeii. It’s closer to Naples and less crowded.
- Island of Procida: Take a short ferry ride to the colorful, charming island of Procida. It’s a picturesque escape and a perfect way to relax after two days of intense sightseeing.
Naples requires multiple visits to truly appreciate it, but whether you have one day in naples or three, you will be rewarded with an authentic taste of Southern Italy.
