Spaccanapoli — the street that 'splits Naples' — runs through the heart of the old town as a perfectly straight ancient Greek-Roman road. Via dei Tribunali, parallel to the north, is one of the most atmospheric streets in Italy: lined with churches, pizza places, street markets and panetterie at every turn.
The National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale) holds the finest collection of Roman artefacts in the world — Pompeii and Herculaneum mosaics, bronze sculptures, the Secret Room and the Alexander mosaic. Even on a short city day, an hour in the museum repays the visit entirely.
Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea) takes you into the Greek-Roman substructure beneath the city streets — a network of tunnels, cisterns and aqueducts dating back 2,400 years. Tours run regularly; book in advance during peak season. It is genuinely cool below ground, which makes it an excellent choice on a very hot day.
Naples food is not a consolation for the city not being Pompeii. It is one of the greatest culinary traditions in Europe. Neapolitan pizza was invented here; sfogliatella is one of the most perfect pastries in the world; espresso in Naples tastes like nowhere else on the continent. Make time for all three.
Highlights
- Spaccanapoli — the straight street through 2,500 years of layered history
- National Archaeological Museum — world-class Roman collection
- Underground Naples — ancient tunnels beneath the city
- Castel Nuovo — the Aragonese castle adjacent to the cruise terminal
- Neapolitan pizza, sfogliatella and street food
Tips
- Book Cappella Sansevero tickets in advance — entry is limited and it fills early
- Underground Naples tours can be booked on the day but advance booking is safer in peak season
- Start on Spaccanapoli and let the street guide you — the city rewards wandering
- Pizza for lunch, sfogliatella in the morning from a bakery: this is the correct Naples food plan