Naples, Italy: Your Guide to Pizza, Amalfi, Pompeii and more...
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
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Come and Eat Your Way Through Some of Italy's Iconic Dishes
If you drool over the idea of a perfect pasta or a scintillating slice of pizza, then look no further than Naples, Italy. It's the birthplace of pizza and home to some of the best dishes in Italy.
However, there's far more to discover than weight gain. Naples is the perfect base for day trips to the iconic and violent Mount Vesuvius, historical sites such as Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as adventures to the staggeringly beautiful Amalfi Coast, Positano, Sorrento and the island of Capri.
Yet, back in town, there are incredible locations to discover both on ground level and under the city.
It's a wild, busy and exciting city to visit.
I spent a week in July and August 2023 exploring Naples and the surrounding area, and my god, it was a blast.
Now, I am here to share the highlights of Naples, Italy, with you. Hence, this blog will guide you through everything the city has to offer, from idyllic restaurants to crazy eateries and to views that will take your breath away.
What's Naples, Italy Like?
Naples is authentic, raw, rugged, rustic and unapologetically Italian.
There are no fake, tourist-pleasing, 'love me' vibes. It is what it is, and it doesn't care if you don't like it.
Yet, despite the rubbish, the oddly attractive hardy buildings, and the occasional pile of dog poo, you'll love it, and it makes you happy.
Similarly, Naples is vibrant, loud, and rundown, but in a good way.
Narrow streets crisscross the city in a maze-like manner, with restaurants and bars engulfing every inch of the enclosed walkways as people fill the streets shouting in that Italian way. Bikes and cars weave through the slimmest of gaps, beeping horns - and a smell of two stoke fills the air.
Above, the tall buildings reach out to the skies and are draped in ribbon, usually in Napoli blue, in a show of support for their heroes on the footy pitch. Each Player is worshipped and has their face floating above the streets, none more so than the infamous Maradona. He is god here.
It's intense yet super exciting.
When people say two wrongs don't make a right, I think they're wrong because, here, Naples shouldn't grab me like it does. It has a million things wrong with it. Yet, it's so right.
How to Get To Naples, Italy
Naples is Italy's third-largest city. Therefore, unsurprisingly, it has a fantastic transport network and is easily accessible by air, train, road or sea.
Below, I will tell you the best ways of getting from the airport, port or stations to the main tourist areas of Quartieri Spagnoli or Centro Storico.
Firstly, as I expect most of you will be flying into Naples, I will start with the main airport, Naples-Capodichino International Airport.
As always, you have the taxi option, and in truth, it's not as expensive as other city airports.
If there are four of you, I'd take this option. Taxis from the airport to Naples Port, where the big cruise ships dock near Municipio, cost around €20. This journey takes roughly fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and how much of an argument your drivers had with their partner. Less if you're staying in Centro Storico.
The other option is the Airport Alibus, which picks you up outside the arrivals hall, across the small car park and on the main road leading out of the airport. The same journey will cost €5 and take roughly twenty minutes.
Secondly, Napoli Centrale (Garibaldi Train Station).
The station is located on the eastern fringes of the Centro Storico district, making it easily walkable. However, if you are staying in or around Quartieri Spagnoli, the metro runs under the train station to numerous locations around the city. Linea 1 (yellow line) runs south through Duomo, Università , Municipio, Toledo (stop here for Quartieri Spagnoli) and Dante. The metro costs €2.40 from the station.
Thirdly, from the port, you only have to walk through Municipio, the big piazza in front of you, and you're in Quartieri Spagnoli. If you're staying in Centro Storico, it's a fifteen-minute walk north. Easy.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Naples, Italy?
This is a tricky one.
You don't need to spend a long time in Naples. Three days is more than enough. However, because it's the perfect base for other unmissable adventures, such as Pompeii, Sorrento, Amalfi and Capri, that time frame will grow. Add a day for each of these activities.
Thus, you could easily spend a week in Naples and never be bored or run out of things to do and see.
Consequently, it will depend on your ability and funds to visit these other places and which of them you want to do.
The Best Time Of The Year For Exploring Naples
As I found out - July and August can get extremely hot and sticky, leaving you uncomfortable.
Likewise, I wouldn't want to come to Naples in the winter. Life in Naples is about the outdoors, and it wouldn't be the same if it were cold or raining.
Therefore, the best time of year for visiting Naples, Italy, is in May, June or September.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Naples
As mentioned, the best places to stay in Naples are Quartieri Spagnoli or Centro Storico.
Both are vibrant, loud and full of fantastic restaurants and bars. Plus, they're where you'll find the history and best things to do in Naples. Similarly, they are close to the port and station.
Being a large city, you will find accommodation comes in numerous styles and under various price ranges.
The only consistency is the additional city tax, which you pay at the end of your stay. The amount differs depending on how many of you there are and the cost of your room per night.
Now I've given you the areas to search and explained the city tax, all you have to do is choose what type of accommodation you want.
However, I think I can help you with that too.
During my trip to Naples, I stayed at the Ostello Bello, bang in the middle of Quartieri Spagnoli and Centro Storico. It is a hostel. However, the top floor is a hotel providing private rooms. Yet, you still have access to all of the hostel's amenities.
Ostello Bello Napoli
- What: The perfect blend of hostel hotel combo.
- Where: In between the two best areas of Naples, Quartieri Spagnoli and Centro Storico. (map)
- Why: Because it's super friendly, well located, clean and tidy, has a rooftop bar and free food daily.
- Why Not: I don't know, because you're mad.
Without a doubt, this is the best hostel I've ever stayed in.
If you're travelling on a budget, then look no further. Hostello Bello is for you.
Firstly, there is free ice-cold water 24/7. Then, there is the kitchen, where you can find free pasta, sauces, fruit and veg every day. All you have to do is cook it and clean it up.
Do you need to read on? Just book it.
Oh, you're still reading... If that's not enough, it's got a rooftop bar, third-floor reception with handy maps, helpful advice and super friendly staff, another bar, an eating terrace, a pool table and more.
The hotel rooms are well equipped, light and roomy, although they are a little loud at times. From a glance, the hostel dorms appeared to be a good size, bright and airy too. Furthermore, it was probably one of the cleanest hostels I've ever stayed in.
In July and August 2023, I paid £441.38p for seven nights for my half of a private (hotel) room. Dorms are cheaper.
Further Accommodation
Okay, so if you are mad and don't like the sound of Ostello Bello, I have given you three more links to accommodation in Naples, Italy.
You will find a vast array of differing accommodations on the trio of links below.
Of course, Airbnb tends to offer private apartments, hostel world, well, hostels, and booking more often than not, work with hotels, but do throw in a random apartment or hostel at times.
Best Things to do in Naples, Italy
If you have chosen your accommodation well, most of the attractions within Naples are walkable. Likewise, you will also be close to the metro, train station and the port for those out-of-town activities.
Again, that's why I suggest staying in Ostello Bello.
With that said, the first thing you'll notice is that unlike most of my city guides, the bulk of the best things to do in Naples aren't actually in Naples. Naples is simply a great base and transport hub to see them all.
Where needed, I will also give you the best way of getting to each activity.
Having spent a week exploring the city and the surrounding area, I'm giving you the highlight reel. Plus, if it's on my list, I've done it, loved it and would do it again.
So, without further ado, here are my best things to do in Naples, Italy.
Naples, Italy: The Highlights
Dive into an Underground Tour
- Why: Firstly, it's fun. Secondly, it's different, and thirdly it's incredibly interesting.
- Where: There are a few around the city. However, this one is next to the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore. (map)
- How long: The tours range between an hour and a half to two hours.
- How much: Per person, this tour costs €22 (£19), and I don't think that's too bad.
Naples has a wealth of history, but not all is above ground. Under the city runs an extensive network of tunnels, aqueducts, pools and more. A life lost to history, or so they thought.
Nowadays, you can discover ancient Greek walkways and Roman aqueducts, squeeze through the narrowest of passes and even uncover hastily left items from WW2.
When you emerge from the dark, you are taken along the street to more Roman buildings with links to the first emperor of Rome.
If you have a couple of hours and are interested in exploring a different side of Naples, this is for you.
Explore Naples on a Walking Tour
- Why: I find it's the easiest way to discover a city, learn about it and then go back to the parts you enjoyed most.
- Where: Again, there are many across the city. Nevertheless, this tour (Guru Walk) meets at the Fountain of Neptune. (map)
- How long: Again, the tour states two hours, but it ranges from one hour forty-five to two hours.
- How much: Well, it's free, bar the tips at the end. You pay what you think the tour was worth.
If the above tour discovers the underside of Naples, this tour uncovers the secrets hidden in plain sight.
Wander the city streets and learn how the differing sovereigns have impacted the city, where emperors, royalty and even Popes once ruled.
Find out what it's like living in the shadow of Vesuvius and explore the delightful Quartieri Spagnoli district and its criminal past.
The tour weaves through the city and ends in the delicious and fragrant Centro Storico amid what is affectionately known as Pizza Street.
This is a worthwhile guide through Naples, Italy, where you can ask your guide anything about the city. They are very knowledgeable.
The only downside is if you're hard of hearing, the tour might not be for you, as the streets are very loud, and it can be tricky to hear what is being said.
Take in the views from Certosa e Museo di San Martino
- Why: You'll find the best views from within Naples. Plus, the museum is fantastic.
- Where: Look up to the sky. No, not Mount Vesuvius, the other way. On the western fringes of Quartieri Spagnoli. (map)
- How long: An hour looking around the museum and fifteen minutes at the view.
- How much: Tickets cost €7 (£6.10) unless you qualify for reduced rates, in which case they are €3.
Despite not having a reason for thinking this, I wasn't expecting too much from Certosa E Museo di San Martino except exceptional views. However, I was wrong.
The museum is a fascinating place, with endless courtyards, corridors, rooms and gardens beautifully cascading across the top of the cliffs. Once inside, you'll notice everything is spectacularly clean, fascinating and somewhat peaceful, especially after spending a morning in the city below.
Some of my favourite parts of the museum include the ornate church and the incredible royal carriages. Nevertheless, the grounds stole the show.
Yet, the most magical moment comes from the balcony at the end of a corridor of tapestries, where you step through some curtains and look out over the insane vista of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Note: You can walk from the city. However, two incline railways run from the city to the top should you not want to climb. Having climbed it, I think the railways are a great option. They are located at Piazzetta Duca d'Aosta and Montesanto.
Get Festive in San Gregorio Armeno Street
- Why: It's a bizarre world, but funny as hell.
- Where: A stone's throw from Pizza Street in Centro Storico. (map)
- How long: Anywhere from ten minutes to twenty.
- How much: Ultimately, it's free to look, but if you buy... how good are your haggling skills?
Okay, so this one is not for everyone, but it is fun.
A street dedicated to the nativity scene isn't something I'd expect to see in Naples, Italy. Nonetheless, it is a big deal to a lot of Italians.
Whilst the figurines are based on the nativity, they're not exactly Christmasy or as we know it. In fact, most of it is darn right mad, and I love it.
Every shop on San Gregorio Armeno Street (known as Christmas Alley) sells the most insane and not always Christmassy-related items. Some are traditional, some less so.
Honestly, you won't know where to turn. I urge you to take ten minutes out of your day, even if you merely wander through without stopping.
Note: I'm genuinely intrigued if you've been here, and if so, what are your thoughts? Please let me know in the comments section at the bottom of the blog.
Climb Mount Vesuvius
- Why: Do you know anyone else who has climbed one of the most active volcanoes in Europe? Even if you do, why wouldn't you?
- Where: Tours start outside Pompei Scavi train station, a short train ride out of the city. (map)
- How long: Like most trips, there are countless tour operators. Go with one that gives you two hours plus the bus ride.
- How much: Again, it depends on who you book with. I went with Tempio Travel, which cost me €45 (£38.70) - Pre-book online.
The tour company drove us from the meeting point to within three hundred meters of the top, and even that was an event. I'm still recovering from the hairpin bends and overgrown corners with no way of seeing what's darting towards you on, at times, a single-track road.
Anyhoo, arriving at the drop-off point, you'll find little market stalls selling all kinds of, umm, crap.
Head through them and hit the pathway weaving up the outside of the creator. You will pass a couple of other little shacks selling food, drinks and cough, cough, you know what. The path is slippery in places but easily passable for all abilities and ages.
Views appear from all angles as you hit the summit, and, my god, they're beautiful.
Peer down into the still-smoking creator and take the time to think - you're aloft one of the most active volcanos in the world. You can walk most of the way around the creator until you reach a little shop/cafe where the path ends. Relax here and take in the views of Pompeii and the Bay of Naples below.
Head down to the meeting point, and if you have time, check out those markets.
Be warned, there aren't any useable toilets on the volcano.
Discover the ruins of Pompeii
- Why: It will bring to life all the stories you've heard about Pompeii. Truly an incredible part of history.
- Where: There are two options, either at Pompeii station or, as above, Pompei Scavi. (map)
- How long: My advice is to do a two-hour tour and then spend a further hour or so walking around at your own pace.
- How much: Different tours will charge varying rates. However, entry without a tour guide at the gate costs €18 (£15.50).Â
Firstly, I didn't pre-book Pompeii. I turned up on the day, and I am pleased I did. Again, I went with Tempio Travel and got a five euros per person discount as we had just finished our Vesuvius tour with them. Therefore, our guided tour was €40 (£34.35).
If I'm honest, I was expecting a lot from this tour, and I felt like I got most of it.
The only downside is that I expected more artefacts, mosaics and human casts than there were. Most of them seemed to have been removed and put in the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which didn't make it onto my list purely because I thought it was overpriced for what I experienced.
Anyway, back to Pompeii.
Frankly, it was a memorable experience learning about life before the eruption, during and after, and I, for one, was pleased to have a guide to explain things as we went around. I gained much more than if I'd strolled about alone.
Once there, you get a feel and sense of what it must have been like when the volcano erupted and how it devastated the land and people. It's one of those places you have to see before you die.
Visit the stunning island of Capri
- Why: It has the clearest of waters and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
- Where: The sublime island across the bay of Naples southwest of Sorrento. (map)
- How long: I'd recommend about five hours, but add the forty-five-minute boat ride each way from Beverello, Napoli. (map)
- How much: A boat journey with NLG costs €25 (£21.50) each way.
A day trip to Capri is a must when visiting Naples, Italy.
A short sail across the bay and crystal clear waters, staggering rugged rock formations and vibrant, colourful flowers and trees await.
Nevertheless, whilst picturesque, Capri comes at a price. No longer will you find a pizza for under €9, although you may get a bottle of water for that.
However, here's one way to claw back some savings. Do not book a package trip to Capri with a Blue Lagoon tour with the likes of Get Your Guide (yes, I usually recommend them and use them, but here it works out cheaper to do it yourself in Capri). Instead, go directly to NLG or another boat company down at the docks and book the boat. Once in Capri, you can join a boat tour of the island, which includes the Blue Lagoon.
Plus, if the seas were too rough, like when I was there, the Blue Lagoon would be shut. So book it on the day.
Other than that, the island's beauty shines through, with a highlight being the twenty-five-minute walk from the top of the cable cars to the natural arch (Arco naturale). En route, don't forget to try the delicious ice cream at Caffe Manari. On the walk, take advantage of the free water fountain near Belvedere Matermania.
Spend a day in the captivating Amalfi Coast
- Why: It's one of the most jaw-dropping towns the world has ever seen.
- Where: On the Amalfi coast near the city of Salerno. (map)
- How long: It's a full-on day trip.
- How much: A day trip from Beverello, Naples, with stops at Amalfi and Positano, costs about €69 (£60).
So firstly, you'll get the best prices by going down to Beverello (the docks) and asking at the desk for prices. You may find cheaper options and better timings by mixing up the boat companies. For example, go out with NLG and come back with SNAV.
However, whoever you go with, this trip to Amalfi and Positano is a must when visiting Naples, Italy.
The town's beauty is unrivalled, the walks are impeccable, and the views outrageously beautiful. Then there's the intense blue seas lapping against the mighty grey and green cliffs. Nothing can compare.
In town, you must visit the Chiostro del Paradiso and Duomo di Amalfi, then treat yourself to a pastry at Pasticceria Pansa and a slice of heaven at Fior di Pizza.
It is busy, but the crowds are there for a reason. Join them.
Where to Eat in Naples, Italy
I have some bad news for you.
No matter how much walking you do in Naples, you will get fat. There's too much good food. Accept it, own it and take a healthy 'who cares' attitude.
Now that that's out of the way, I will move on to the delicious treats you have in store. Naples, Italy, is the home of Pizza, and they claim to make the best in the world.
Do you know what? I agree. Although, Rome comes a very close joint first.
Restaurants and street foods spill out across the narrow, cobbled streets, and the smells of freshly baked products, pasta, and meats rise from the foundations of every building. It's heavenly, and you'll want to try them all.
I could name tens of places for top-tasting pizzas, five or six for flavoursome pasta, and dozens of delectable gelato cafes. However, I have tried to narrow it down to the best of the best.
Yet, you will notice I am starting with something a little different. I am not recommending it for being the best food in town. I'm recommending it for its complete randomness and hilarity.
So get your knives and forks ready, and let's get stuck in.
Trattoria da Nennella
- What: A loud, fast-paced, random trattoria that aims to entertain as you eat.
- Where: A two-minute walk from the Toledo Metro stop in the hustle and bustle of Quartieri Spagnoli. (map)
- How much: Two-course meal with sides for an astonishing €15 (£12.80), plus drinks. (menu)
Where the hell do I start? At the beginning
So, outside, a guy on a microphone shouts out names as if he were a bingo caller. Each name is greeted with a cheer as the chosen party is ushered into the restaurant and shown to their seats.
It takes a moment to realise what's happening and that the mass gathering isn't a queue or anything, really. Give the guy your name, and you will be added to the list.
When you're called out, head inside, sit down, and before you know it - water, a menu, and a waiter appear as if you'd just rubbed a lantern.
Waiters scurry in all directions as they try to keep control of the ever-growing crowds. It's mayhem. But I'll help you out. You order your first dish from the first section of the menu and a drink, and within minutes, they will appear.
Once you finish that, they'll return for you to order the next dish and a side. Easy, right?
Well, yes. Apart from now and again, music is blasted throughout the restaurant, and everyone starts clapping and banging the table. Some people even dance. Then quiet, and back to eating. That's until someone comes around with a one-man-band outfit on singing out loud.
Crazy, but fun.... Enter at your own risk.
Hosteria Toledo 1951
- What: Sublime traditional restaurant in the heart of Quartieri Spagnoli.
- Where: Three minutes walk from Toledo and five from the fountain of Neptune in Municipio. (map)
- How much: Epic main courses for as little as €8 to €10 (£8.50). (menu)
We stumbled on this place by mistake, and I am glad we did. In fact, it was so good we went back on our last night too.
Hosteria is a stylish, friendly restaurant with flavours and tastes to match.
Their pasta dishes are to die for. I had the Genovese and the Bolognese. Both left me smiling on the inside and out.
Whilst the portion sizes aren't massive, they are filling, especially when you add in the free fresh bread and a cheeky pint.
Pizzeria Del Purgatorio
- What: Traditional family-run Italian specialists.
- Where: On Pizza Street, aka Via dei Tribunali, amid the Centro Storico district. (map)
- How much: Two starters, two epic lasagna, a glass of wine, a beer and a 10% tip came to €51.50 (£44.50).
Easily one of my favourite places in Naples, with a relaxing, fun atmosphere and is the perfect place for people-watching.
It's not often at a restaurant that you feel the staff honestly care about you, but here they did. They have fantastic family values and a great passion for food, which shows in the taste and quality of their dishes.
I also love the backdrop hidden under the vast stone arches with hearts and flags dangling above.
Give it a try. You won't regret it.
Donna Elvira
- What: As per the rest, a traditional, small but perfectly formed Italian restaurant.
- Where: In the fantastic Quartieri Spagnoli district next to Hosteria Toledo. (map)
- How much: Pizzas (including the one pictured above) for under €10 (£8.50).
Sorry, but every restaurant I mention is very similar. Hence struggling to come up with new words to describe them and their pizza and pasta dishes.
Whilst that's not very individual, it shows they have found a winning formula and are sticking to it. In truth, I would too. After all, why change perfection?
So, again, it's outstanding service with lots of laughs, fresh flavours and incredible food.
Cafe Bistrot Da Rudy
- What: Fantastically decorated little cafe with beautiful gardenesque seating area.
- Where: Set amid the incredible Pizza Street (Via dei Tribunali). (map)
- How much: An arancino, two massive pizzas, a beer and a wine came to a cheeky little €35 (£30).
The middle of three similar-looking restaurants had been on our radar a few times as we had walked past, and it was always busy, even when the other two had no customers. And, as we know, that can only be a good thing.
So, eventually, we made it for a very late lunch, and honestly, I think it was my favourite pizza in Naples.
An added secret ingredient took it from heavenly (like the others) to god-like.
Not only was the food delicious, but as you can see from the picture, they have put a lot of care into the style and vibes of the restaurant.
Even when a hornet the size of Capri repeatedly attacked, the waiter went all kung fu on it, allowing us to relax and enjoy our meal. I'm sure the hornet wanted a taste of that sweet, sweet pizza.
Pizzaioli Veraci
- What: Larger Italian restaurant that specialises in pizza.
- Where: On the corner of Via Toledo and Vico Tre Re A Toledo in the Quartieri Spagnoli district. (map)
- How much: Well, a starter, two pizzas and a couple of drinks came to €36.50 (£31.20), with service included. (menu)
Pizzaioli Veraci is busier than the other places I've mentioned, and frankly, it feels more like a hang-out place than a restaurant.
That doesn't mean worse. It simply means different.
Despite their more extensive stature and vibrant, louder atmosphere, they still produce the same top-quality foods.
The service isn't as good as the other places I've mentioned, but when the food tastes as good as it does, does the service really matter?
If anything, it feels like a student cafe in a university, but with waaaayyyyyyy better food.
Con Mollica O Senza
- What: Epic, fresh sandwich makers.
- Where: Just northeast of the Quartieri Spagnoli district, near the Shazar Gallery. (map)
- How much: For the sandwiches, you're looking at between €8 to €10 each (£8.50).
As you know, I never mention anywhere I haven't tried, stayed, explored or eaten. However, this place breaks those rules.
Why? Because I haven't eaten here. Although, I attempted to grab a sandwich on my way back to the airport. Nevertheless, the queue was around the corner and up the street. Sadly, I couldn't risk missing my flight.
Yet, due to the aroma wafting from the cafe, the look of the bread, meat and cheeses, and seeing how happy it made people, I couldn't not mention it. Furthermore, it reminded me of an astonishing place in Rome called All'Antico Vinaio and my god, it was beautiful.
So, for those reasons, and seeing numerous food bloggers dig into those sandwiches, I had to make sure you don't make the same mistake I did and not know it was there.
Let me know in the comments below if you go and what you think. Cheers.
Where to Party in Naples
With alcohol being a way of life in Naples, Italy, it is hardly surprising to find out that there are literally hundreds of places to grab a beer, a glass of wine or a couple of cocktails.
Nevertheless, when it comes to alcohol and nights out, the city feels separated into areas. Firstly, there's the part of the city where life is slower. The music is more soothing, and a few drinks slip down with your meal.
Then, there are pockets of the city where noise, chatter and music boom from bars and clubs. The student members of Naples rule these areas, and they're simply cool as fuck.
Like the separate areas, there appears to be a split in how red wine is served, and that's a big deal. In some restaurants, you'll ask for a red wine, and it will come cold and fizzy. Whilst in others, it comes as it should, still and at room temperature. Make sure you clarify, as, for some unsightly reason, some places will fob you off with fizzy, cold red wine, and it's nasty.
Other than that, I do have to mention the local tipple that all Italian cities do well - limoncello. If this is your first time in Italy, try it, it's fantastic.
Finally, despite lots of dark, narrow lanes, nowhere felt unsafe. That's probably because there are always people out and about, and despite Naples's past and history, it felt like a safe night out.
Now, let's look at some of the best places to drink in Naples.
Il Grillo
- What:Â Stylish, relaxed little wine bar.
- Where: On Via Trinità degli Spagnoli, just off Via Toledo. (map)
Welcome to my favourite drinking spot in Naples, Italy.
It may be small, but they say: "The best things come in small packages".
The team behind the bar live for this place, and it shows. They're warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable about what they are serving.
I loved them, and it's fair to say I loved their wine too.
The decor, ambience and vibes are as relaxing as a hot bubble bath on a cold day.
Beer Bar
- What: Students hang out with lots going on.
- Where: On the southeast corner of Chiostro Maiolicato. (map)
In contrast to Il Grillo, this place is a lively environment where those young professionals and students can kick back and do what they do best - chat away with mates and drink.
No matter your tipple, you'll find it here. Cocktails, beer, wine or shots, they're all on the menu.
Along with great drinks, you get free snacks brought to the table, and I'm always a fan of that.
Whilst it is fairly chilled in the week, weekends get rowdy down here, so get your best shirt on and enjoy a night out in Naples.
Pin 8
- What:Â Small, hole-in-the-wall bar with sass and class.
- Where: On the northeast corner of Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara. (map)
Much like the above, Pin 8 only gets going on weekends.
During the week, it is a classy, relaxed bar where the owner sits out front and directs operations with a beer. Yeah, it's chill.
On weekends, the street develops into a party scene, and Pin 8 helps spearhead that.
It's a nice place to start the night before heading out on the sesh.
Calata Trinita Maggiore
- What:Â Busy street full of quality bars and vibrant nightlife.
- Where: On the southwest corner of Piazza del Gesù. (map)
Again, on a weekend, the street is lit with everything you expect on a night out. Noise, chaos, laughter and bright lights cover the whole road, drawing you in like a moth to the flame. The madness subsides during the week but is still about as loud as Naples gets.
Food haunts, bars, takeaways, this place has it all, and it is where you'll want to be.
Numerous bars and restaurants run the length of the road, but the closer you get to the Piazza, the louder the bars get.
Pub crawl, anyone?
Is Exploring Naples, Italy Safe?
Normally, I'd blabber on about how safe everything is and how you shouldn't worry when exploring the city I'm writing about. To a degree, it's the same here.
However, due to the city's past, locals warn you about some areas, telling you not to go there at night. When a few people tell tales of crime, danger and woe about a part of the city, it puts you on edge when you're in it. Nevertheless, even in those locations, we never felt unsafe during our trip to Naples, Italy.
That said, walking in and around Piazza Garibaldi can be intimidating. Groups of younger guys congregate, take drugs and cause anti-social behaviour. With the basketball courts, graffiti and mini skate park, it looks a little bit like the inside of an American prison.
So, whilst safe, there is an unapologetic edge to the city. You do need to keep your wits about you.
Outside of crime, there are two other burning safety concerns.
Firstly, the roads.
Some of the narrow, slippery and congested streets feel like they're pedestrianised. They're not.
No matter how skinny the roads, the number of pedestrians or the amount of street furniture, bikes and cars will fly through the streets. It is your job to jump out of the way. You'll need eyes in the back of your head in Naples, Italy. Although, if you don't see them coming, you will hear them.
Finally, there is the unmistakable outline of Mount Vesuvius. It will erupt at some point, and when it does, Naples will suffer mass casualties. Yet, this isn't likely to happen whilst you or I are kicking about, so I wouldn't worry about it too much.
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In summary, Naples is home to some of the most extraordinary and iconic dishes in Italy, and if you're like me, a massive foodie, you simply cannot miss out on exploring the city.
In truth, despite the insane foods and cheap living, it will never be my favourite city and isn't somewhere I'd return to time and time again, other than to use it as a base to explore the exceptionally beautiful islands and parts of Italy nearby.
So would I recommend it?
Yes, I would. For me, it holds enough energy, history, style and excitement for everyone to visit at least once in their lifetime. Yet, without the day trips to Pompeii, Vesuvius, Sorrento and Capri, there isn't enough to draw you back.
All that's left for me to say is thank you for reading my guide to Naples, Italy. I hope you have found it both intriguing and helpful.
If you have used this guide to Naples, Italy, to help you plan your trip or are using it on the go, please let me know what you think. Have I missed anything or gone over the top with my love of the food places?
Any thoughts or comments are greatly appreciated below. Enjoy.
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