Naples Hidden Gems: Best Things To Do In Naples, Italy

Island Hopping/Beaches

• Take the ferry to Ischia - Isola d’Ischia is known for its “healing waters,” and you’ll sure feel refreshed and sun-kissed after spending a few days here. Be sure to check out one of the many thermal spas on the island.

  • Top beaches: Spiaggia dei Maronti (Barano), Spiaggia di San Pietro (Porto), and Beaches of Forio.

• Take the ferry to Procida - Named Italy’s Capital of Culture 2022, this is one of my favorite islands in Italy with its colorful buildings and fresh seafood. It’s only a 45-minute ferry ride from Naples and situated between Ischia and Capri, but far less crowded! The Island is very walkable, and because it’s less than two square miles in total, you can walk the entire island in a day.

  • Top beaches: Spiaggia del Postino (Pozzo Vecchio) and Spiaggia di Silurenza.

Historical Sites/Tours

• Pompeii - Visiting Naples without a visit to Pompeii is like going to Rome without seeing the Colosseum. Walk the ruins of the Roman city that was wiped out by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and buried in volcanic ash.

• Mount Vesuvius - Hike to the crater of the volcano that devastated and destroyed many cities in and around Naples. This somma-stratovolcano is the backdrop of the Bay of Naples and last erupted 80 years ago!

• Castel dell’Ovo - One of the oldest castles in Naples, Castel dell’Ovo translates to Egg Castle. Free entry and you can explore until sunset. Situated on the peninsula, this fortress gives some of the greatest sea – and sunset – views.

• Castel Sant’Elmo - Stunning views of the entire city, the Bay of Naples, and Vesuvio. Combine this with lunch or aperitivo drinks at Renzo e Lucia.

Historical Sites/Museums

• Castel Nuovo - Large medieval castle in the heart of Naples. Architecture, museum and Italian flavor.

• Certosa e Museo di San Martino - Situated on top of Vomero Mountain, this can be combined with your visit to Castel Sant’Elmo. Take in more gorgeous views of the Bay of Naples and wander the beautifully manicured gardens. Inside, you’ll find a museum full of paintings and statues.

Shopping

• Galleria Umberto I - Shopping and cafes underneath a glass dome ceiling. Shop like a local at this picturesque and historic site.

Other

• Piazza del Plebiscito - Iconic landmark, large square, Naples Royal Palace adjacent.

Day Trips

• Procida

• Capri

• Ischia

• Spuzzule (Drinks/Small Bites) - This small wine bar is bursting with local flavor. A great spot to stop before or after dinner, have some spritz or wine and eat small bites – tapas style. The crowds overflow into the street as the night progresses.

• Ristorante Osteria Il Garum (Lunch or Dinner) - Traditional dishes, pasta, seafood. I recommend the tender octopus that will melt in your mouth.

• Pizzeria Sandropizzettata (Lunch) - This pizzeria was recommended to me by a local and it does not disappoint. Fresh ingredients, pillowy crust and friendly staff.

• Renzo e Lucia (Lunch or Aperitivo/Drinks) - I requested a table against the railing that gives the most stunning views of the city and Vesuvio. In addition to the view, I enjoyed snacking on the calamari and bruschetta while sipping on – you guessed it, a spritz!

• Trattoria e Pizzeria ‘O Vesuvio (Lunch or Dinner) - Here, you can’t go wrong whether you’re in the mood for pizza, pasta or seafood. I had a little bit of everything.

• Antica Friggitoria La Masardona dal 1945 (Lunch or Dinner) - Fried pizza – need I say more?!

• Ristorante Palazzo Petrucci (Dinner) - A Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the Bay of Naples offering tasting menus. Upscale Italian dishes and lasting memories.

• Antichi Sapori Partenopei (Dinner) - Fresh seafood and pasta dishes. Indoor and outdoor seating along Via Chiaia.

• Guyot Wine & Tapas Bar (Drinks/Small Bites) - Great ambience and a fun spot to have drinks after dinner. Friendly bartenders, good music and lively local atmosphere.