Naples, the heart of central Italy, thrills with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Yet, beyond its renowned attractions lies a distinct vibe, waiting to be explored. While it may seem daunting to fully experience Naples in a short visit, fear not. Find out how to spend 3 days in Naples, Italy, and unlock the essence of this magnificent city in no time.
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DAY ONE
Napoli Sotterranea
Explore the hidden depths of Naples with an unforgettable underground tour, delving into the city’s rich history. Uncover ancient aqueducts, mysterious tunnels, and wartime shelters, among other fascinating sights. Gain a captivating perspective of Naples’ past and present.
After the tour, head over to the nearby piazza, where the majestic Palace of Naples awaits.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Naples boasts its grandeur with the expansive Piazza del Plebiscito, the city’s largest. Dominated by the Royal Palace of Naples and the Basilica di San Francesco di Paola, this iconic square has witnessed centuries of vibrant festivities, celebrations, and historic gatherings.
Royal Palace of Naples
Stroll directly from the bustling plaza to step into the awe-inspiring Royal Palace of Naples. Renowned for its breathtaking architecture, rich cultural significance, and opulent history, the palace promises a journey through time.
Explore the majestic throne room and delve into the luxurious royal apartments on a guided tour.
Once you’ve experienced the splendor of the palace, venture southward through the vibrant piazza and down Via Cesario Console until you reach Via Nazario Sauro.
Via Nazario Sauro
Go on a leisurely walk along the picturesque Bay of Naples and immerse yourself in its breathtaking vistas. The scenic promenade extends beyond the castle, offering panoramic views of the bay with the majestic Mount Vesuvius as a stunning backdrop.
Don’t miss the opportunity to pause and admire the Fontana del Gigante along your journey.
Castel dell’Ovo
While the castle is presently closed, it’s a must-visit destination once it reopens. This medieval marvel offers wonderful exploration opportunities, boasting panoramic vistas and an unbeatable location. Keep it on your radar for a fun experience once it welcomes visitors again.
Villa Comunale di Napoli
Settled amidst the vibrant city bustle lies a serene green oasis, ideal for unwinding and relaxation. Families will delight in its playground facilities, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the city’s sights and sounds.
DAY TWO
Pompeii or Herculaneum
Just a quick 30-minute train ride from Naples lies these captivating sites. Simply head to Napoli Centrale and catch a direct train to your chosen destination.
While visiting either Pompeii or Herculaneum is fulfilling on its own, some adventurous souls opt to explore both. Pompeii tends to draw more visitors due to its size and popularity, so allocate ample time to fully absorb its wonders.
Although the archaeological sites offer a wealth of historical marvels, there’s minimal information available onsite.
One thing that we would’ve done differently was to hire some type of guide to provide more context.
Consider equipping yourself with an audio guide or joining a guided tour to get a better feel for what you’re seeing.
You can purchase your Pompeii tickets here.
You can purchase your Herculaneum tickets here.
Keep in mind, these ancient sites offer little shade, potentially making summer visits extremely hot especially if you’re bringing young ones. Dress appropriately and plan accordingly to beat the heat.
Bagno Elena
After a morning of exploring on foot, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation. Bagno Elena, a delightful city beach, offers a perfect retreat for families.
This was surprisingly a favorite spot for our family. While not as scenic as the beaches on the nearby islands, we had a lot of fun here. With convenient changing facilities, shallow waters, and gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot to unwind.
The entire area is well-maintained and easily reachable by bus, typically via routes like the 151 or 140.
DAY THREE
Naples National Archaeological Museum
Consider your visit to the Naples National Archaeological Museum as a perfect complement to your exploration of Pompeii or Herculaneum. Housing an abundance of artifacts unearthed from these iconic sites, the museum offers a deeper insight into the region’s history.
However, its significance extends beyond the local area, showcasing a diverse array of Roman and Greek treasures.
Once you’ve immersed yourself in the museum’s riches, venture into the heart of Naples.
You can easily reach it by heading to Via Santa Maria di Constantinapoli and catching a bus heading east, such as the 147, 184, or 201. Alternatively, enjoy a pleasant 15-minute stroll on foot to soak in the city’s charm along the way.
Centro Storico/Spaccanapoli
Become fully engaged in the vibrant pulse of Naples’ central district, brimming with energy and excitement. A stroll down the lively Spaccanapoli offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s essence, showcasing its splendid architecture, bustling markets, eclectic shops, and inviting eateries.
Don’t miss the chance to try the world-renowned Pizza Margherita, a Naples specialty. Indulge in a slice at popular spots like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele or explore other fantastic pizzerias scattered throughout the area.
Our family’s experiences at various pizzerias in this area were consistently delightful.
HOW TO GET AROUND NAPLES
Getting around Naples is easy and family-friendly with the city’s Metro system. Line 1 is particularly convenient, connecting major attractions like the historic center and Piazza Dante.
To make the most of your trip, purchase tickets in advance, use apps to plan routes, and always validate your ticket to avoid fines. Don’t miss artistic stations like Toledo, celebrated for its stunning design and architecture.
Traveling during off-peak hours ensures a more comfortable experience, especially with children. Combine Metro travel with walking to fully appreciate Naples’ vibrant streets and culture, making it an enjoyable and efficient way to explore the city.
BEST AREAS TO STAY IN NAPLES
When choosing the best areas to stay in Naples, families will find neighborhoods that balance convenience, culture, and comfort. Chiaia is an upscale option with waterfront views, parks, and boutique shopping, offering a quieter atmosphere perfect for families.
Vomero, located on a hill, features stunning views, green spaces, and a relaxed vibe, with easy funicular access to the city center. For a historic experience, Centro Storico places its visitors in the middle of Naples’ rich culture with narrow streets, famous landmarks like Spaccanapoli, and authentic pizzerias.
Santa Lucia, near the waterfront, provides scenic views of Castel dell’Ovo and access to a picturesque promenade. Families interested in archaeology and entertainment may prefer Fuorigrotta, close to attractions like Edenlandia amusement park and the stadium.
Each neighborhood offers excellent transport connections, making it easy to explore the city and its treasures, ensuring a memorable stay in Naples.
ENJOY YOUR THREE DAYS IN NAPLES
With so many captivating attractions and delectable culinary delights, Naples promises an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss. Even with just three days, you can create lasting memories by following this carefully crafted itinerary. However, don’t forget to carve out moments to wander and discover the city on your own. Since you now have your itinerary planned out, discover our best tips for visiting Naples on a budget, check out this essential guide to Naples and find out the best areas to stay in Naples.
