On the western coast of Italy is the beautiful city Naples. Naples has been inhabited for centuries and over the course has seen battles, sieges, and more.
Due to its large historical significance, Naples is nowadays a full of historical buildings, monuments and traditional squares.
Its modern touch adds to the whole beauty of the city and makes the result even better. Here is a list of the best things you can do in Naples, Italy.
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1. Ruins of Pompeii
The well-known ancient city of Pompeii is a must-see destination when you visit Naples. Although a large amount of lava covered the city after the explosion of Mount Vesuvius, the place is nowadays well-preserved due to the large amount of ash that covered it.
Visitors can walk along the ruins of the city and watch for some interesting sights, including the Temple of Apollo, the Temple of Jupiter and the worldly known Amphitheatre.
If you are up to it, you can also, find the plaster casts of victims who were unfortunate to live during the explosion and ere buried under the ashes.
2. Ruins of Herculaneum
Another important city of the past that was destroyed similarly to Pompeii from Mount Vesuvius, Herculaneum is definitely worth a visit, as well. At a better condition compared to Pompeii, this city still possesses some of its frames, wooden structures, and roofing for everyone to admire.
Some interesting spots inside the city are mainly the Villa of the Papyri and the House of Argus.
A series of skeletons is also, visible to everyone passing by and is a reminder of the unfortunate history of the broader region.
3. Castel Nuovo
One of the most special and impressive sights in Naples and the first one that visitors coming to the city via cruise ships observe, the Castel Nuovo is an important historical place and has five round towers and a triumphal arch that was added a bit later.
You can take a guided tour inside and outside the castle if you wish to learn some historical facts, as well.
Alternatively, you can roam around the place on your own, stand in the impressive courtyard and climb the castle’s ramparts if you wish to admire the stunning view of the city from above.
4. The Cathedral
The most impressive and large church in Naples and in southern Italy, as well, the Cathedral of Duomo is a great sight and accessible via the metro station.
The architectural style of the building is not that clear since it can be described as a combination of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance. Much of this variety of styles is due to the fact that a lot of modern changes and renovations have been made throughout the year to the church.
The front aspect of the cathedral features a round tower and various sculptures along with some stone artwork. The decoration on the inside of the church is impressive as well.
5. Palazzo Reale
A royal palace that will blow your mind from the very first visit, the Palazzo Reale has an impressive interior and a worthy exterior, as well. Rooms decorated with different styles and valuable objects of the old period are hosted in the interior of the palace, along with the original staircase and hallway.
The throne room, as well as the state theater, are also very fascinating.
This wonderful historic building deserves a guided tour in order to let you learn some interesting facts that accompany its reputation, as well. The base of this palace is also, home to a series of 12 statues of past kings of the city, including Roger of Sicily.
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6. National Archaeological Museum
The Nationa Archaeological Museum of Naples hosts a variety of interesting and unique pieces of art, including the worldly famous Farnese Collection.
This particular collection includes exclusive pieces of Greek-Roma art. Audioguides are available in English and there is also, the opportunity of a guided tour with a local guide who’s gonna inform you about the little facts that surround each collection and each era.
7. The Island of Capri
A two-hour boat trip from Naples will lead you to the picturesque nearby island, named Capri.
Its wild beauty and modern touch make it an appealing destination for every type of visitor, including couples and families. Its coastline is full of caves and its charming Italian villages full of traditional roads and small houses add to the final beauty of this island.
When you reach the island of Capri, do not miss the opportunity to take a trip to the well-known Blue Grotto cave or get on top of the Monte Solaro and admire the unique view.
8. Mount Vesuvius
For the more adventurous types of travelers, there is the option of climbing Mount Vesuvius and peering into its crater.
The hiking time is about 25 minutes, the road is simple enough for everyone to walk along and when you reach the top, you’ll be able to be in the center of this magnificent natural phenomenon.
After all, we should not forget that Mount Vesuvius is actually the only volcano in mainland Europe and the only volcano in the world that caused such a destruction some centuries ago.
The ruins of the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum are the real proof that such a volcano should make you feel frightened and shocked at the same time.
9. Catacombs of San Gennaro
A complex and somewhat scary place, that’s ideal for exploration despite the danger of getting lost, the Catacombs of San Gennaro is an underground series of tunnels and passageways that date back to the ancient years.
The catacombs are divided into two major layers. The lower one contains about 3000 burials and the light is not sufficient at all, so be prepared to feel a bit scared during your walking around.
The upper floor is more spacious and contains a variety of artworks and detailed frescos. If you wish to feel the history of this place and get through every tunnel and passageway that appears in your way, feel free to go an organized guided tour.
10. Castel dell’Ovo
On the ancient Megaride Islet stands a castle, commonly known as the egg-castle after a local myth.
The castle was once divided from the mainland of Naples by sea, but nowadays there is a footpath and a road that lead you straight to the castle. The interior of the castle is home to temporary exhibits, festivities and events, including Vitigno Italia.
Several treasure hunts are organized in this castle, that help tourists learn some fascinating facts concerning the history of the castle while they try to solve a mystery using some clues and the guidance of the expert staff.
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11. Piazza del Plebiscito
A place that should not be missed by any newcomer to the city, the main square, named Piazza del Plebiscito has a lot of impressive sights around.
Apart from the Royal Palace and the Basilica Royal, the square is also, home to the Palazzo Salerno, a statue of Charles the Third of Spain and various other historical buildings and statues.
12. Piazza Bellini
A square full of local bars and a meeting point for the locals, particularly the younger ones, Piazza Bellini is the ideal place for a quiet and joyful evening outside.
Sip your wine staring at the beautiful buildings that surround the square or pay a visit to the walls at Intra Moenia, situated at the center of the square where you can purchase one of the many postcards that are hanging on the walls and send it to your family or friends.
13. Santa Lucia
If you wish to have a real idea of how a typical and traditional Italian city truly is, then you should definitely pay a visit to the district of Santa Lucia. Narrow cobbled roads, souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, and small bars are situated in this part of the city.
Visitors can meet up with locals and learn about their everyday lives and their business habits. Walking along the various little roads and watching at some of the city’s most traditional buildings is a must-see experience before you take your leave from Naples.
Conclusion
Visiting Naples is an overall great opportunity for every type of traveler.
The unique combination of modernity and traditionalism, along with the impressive history that surrounds the city make the whole travel experience memorable and full.
In order to avoid feeling overwhelmed with the variety of things to do and activities to take part in when you visit Naples, the above list summarizes some of the best and top-rated things you can do during your journey.
After all, organizing your trip carefully will help you avoid getting lost or losing some great chances of visiting the fascinating places Naples has to offer.
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International Living are giving away a FREE research report on the most desirable—and cheapest—retirement havens available to you today.
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