Last Updated on: 2nd March 2022, 04:35 pm
Looking for a way to get the most out of one day in Naples? This 24 hours-in-Naples itinerary is the perfect way to dip your toes into one of Italy’s most chaotic and thrilling cities!
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Good to Know: This guide to spending 24 hours in Naples comes to us from Adam of As Adam Goes.
Adam is an Irish lad traveling throughout Europe with the goal of motivating others to do the same.
Whether it’s hiking through misty mountains, exploring an unusual destination, or getting himself into a sticky situation, once there’s an adventure, Adam is there.
My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023
These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.
Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing
Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viator.
Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com.
For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.
For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars.
Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.
For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon.
Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).
For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
Where to Stay in Naples
If you’ll be coming to Naples as a day trip, then you won’t need a place to stay. However, if you’ll be staying overnight, here are highly recommended Naples accommodations!
Budget (Under $75 per night)
For a great deal with a bit of comfort and sophistication, check into the Cico B&B. Rooms include flat-screen TVs, free breakfast, and easy cancellation.
I’ve truly never seen a budget hotel in Italy with such great reviews, so this is a chance for a wonderful experience during your trip to Naples!
Check rates and book your stay at the Cico B&B.
Mid-Range (From $75-150 per night)
If you’re looking to stay in Naples at somewhere a bit more upscale, check into the Sanfelice 33 Luxury Suties.
Located in the Port of Naples, the hotel is close to great Naples sites like the Palazzo Reale Napoli, San Gregorio Armeno, and Piazza Plebiscito.
Rooms are clean, modern, and bright!
Check rates and book your stay at the Sanfelice 33 Luxury Suties.
Luxury ($150 per night or more)
For true luxury during your time in Naples, book your room at the five-star Grand Hotel Vesuvio.
With stunning views of Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples, a waterfront location, and a pool and sundeck overlooking the Gulf, you will feel like you are on a true Naples luxury vacation.
Visiting Naples – A City of Chaos
As you travel through the major Italian cities, you’ll come to discover that they each have a unique side to them.
Naples takes it up a notch. From the chaotic streets filled with zooming bikes to the crazy street vendors hustling to make a living, Naples is the Italian city that will be the most foreign to you.
Located in the southern Campania region, Naples is a city filled with rich history and culture. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world, dating back nearly 4000 years ago.
In a city this old, you’re bound to stumble across some wonderful sites. Also, don’t forget it’s the home of pizza.
Sadly, Naples is overlooked by travelers seeking more exotic experiences down the Amalfi Coast. They have no idea what they’re missing.
If you’re on an exciting journey through Italy, Naples is one of the best places to stop for a day trip.
You could walk around the city all day without visiting any attractions and take in how the city operates.
It’s mind-boggling. 24 hours is the perfect amount of time to spend in this city of madness, but you could spend 48 to 72 if you’re feeling like you’re up for more hustle and bustle.
Here is the best way to spend one day in the wonderful city of Naples.
How To Get To Naples
Thankfully, the train system in Italy is really efficient. You can access Naples easily by train from all the major Italian cities, including Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice.
The train station in Naples is centrally located within the city. All of the major tourist attractions are either within walking distance or a short bus trip away.
Naples International Airport is 5km away from the city and it takes 15 minutes to get there due to the crazy traffic.
A taxi ride will set you back 17-20 euros, or if you’d like to take a shuttle bus, it costs 5 euros per journey.
Alternatively, you can drive to Naples. Italy’s main motorway network is known as the Autostrada and it will connect you to all corners of the country.
Beware, the roads in Naples are not like any other European city.
The traffic will be crazy, and I mean crazy. The motorcyclists are ruthless and they don’t care where you’ve come from. They’ll zigzag around you like they’re playing a game.
Using buses to get around Naples is the best option. You can use the Unico ticket or TIC ticket.
They can be purchased at a tobacco shop (tabaccheria) or a newspaper stand. The ticket prices vary depending on the time period you want to use the bus for.
Each ticket has a duration, and they’re activated once you hop on the bus and scan them.
A Budget For One Day In Naples
Naples is one of the cheaper Italian cities. It’s extremely affordable.
Food and drink are a lot cheaper in comparison to the northern cities.
You can find some great food for really affordable prices. For example, I got some of the best pizza I’ve ever had in Naples, and it cost me 4 euros.
Alcohol is also really cheap. Whether you’re looking for an astringent glass of red wine or a sparkling Aperol Spritz, you won’t break the bank.
Accommodation prices are reasonable. You’ll find standard hotel prices start from 25 euros a night.
They’re basic, but perfect if you’re spending 24 hours in Naples. Maybe you’re looking for more of a lavish hotel.
Prices start at 60 euros and go to prices you can only imagine. Hostel beds are cheap and usually go for 10 euros a night.
Tourist attraction prices in Naples will vary depending on what you’re into. You can see a lot of the tourist attractions in Naples on foot for free, like the Piazza del Plebiscito.
Other tourist attractions, like the Catacombs of Naples, will set you back as little as 9 euros.
Overall, Naples is a budget-friendly city that won’t hurt your pockets.
The Perfect One Day In Naples Itinerary
Get ready for an amazing day in Naples!
Start Off Your Day in Naples At The Piazza Del Plebiscito (8:30 am)
To kick start your day in Naples, get up bright and early and head to the astonishing Piazza del Plebiscito.
Try to get there super early before the tourists flock in their hundreds to take over this Neapolitan square.
This is where some of the city’s most important attractions are located, including the Royal Palace and Basilica of San Francesco da Paola.
The Piazza itself used to be named ‘Largo del Palazzo’ which meant the square of the palace, and in 1860, it adopted the current name to honor the referendum that united the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies with Piedmont and the rest of Italy.
From 1963 until 1994, the Piazza was used as a public parking lot as the economy was booming and there was an influx of motor vehicles in the city.
As you arrive at the Piazza, you’ll be immediately met by the Basilica of San Francesco da Paola. It’s one of the most famous Catholic constructions in the city.
In the distance, the 173-foot-tall dome skyscrapers over the central part of the religious monument. Walk inside and you’ll discover some of the impressive works of art.
The opening times are from 8:30 am to 19:30 pm and it’s free to enter.
Did you know that the Basilica of San Francesco da Paola is meant to replicate the Pantheon in Rome? They look similar, right?
After you’ve finished exploring the Basilica of San Francesco da Paola, head over to the Royal Palace of Naples.
Known as being one of the four residences that the Bourban Kings used when ruling the Kingdom of the Two Sicillys.
It was built in 1600, but it has had many renovations in the past. Have a look inside the grand apartments and discover the lavish lifestyle these kings had.
You can enter the Royal Palace for 6 euros and the opening hours are from 09:00 am to 20:00 am.
Go Underground To The Naples Catacombs (10:00 am)
Next, you’re going underground. Yes, I mean down under. Forty meters below the hectic streets, lies a rich history that not everyone sees.
Take the Naples Underground Tour and see the remains of the Roman aqueduct that have been severely eroded by the water supply from the city.
As you continue walking through the majestic caves, you’ll be shown the air-raid shelter that was used during World War II. History lovers will dig this place.
Ticket prices start at 14 euros and it’s open from 10:00 am – 17:00 pm.
Book Your Naples Underground Tour Entrance Ticket
A little bit of advice: if you’re not a lover of small spaces, consider avoiding the tour as it can get quite cramped down below, especially on a busy day.
Head Over To Galleria Umberto – Get Your Camera Ready (11:00 am)
Looking for some incredible architecture to fill out your Italian photo album? Well, Galleria Umberto is the spot.
This glass domed shopping arcade was built in the 19th century as part of the reconstruction of Naples.
It was named after the King who ruled Naples at the time of construction.
Inside, you’ll find lots of shops and cafes, and some wonderful works of art scattered throughout the Galleria.
Don’t be afraid to get your camera action on, it’s known to be one of the most photogenic spots in Naples.
Visit Castel Nuovo (11:30 am)
Built in the 13th century, Castel Nuovo isn’t like any other 7 castles in the city because of the way it stands out.
Anywhere near the castle, you’ll notice that it pops out significantly in comparison to the others.
It was rebuilt by Alfonso V of Aragon in the 15th century after the Spanish Empire took over.
Today, what’s left behind is an intriguing Renaissance-Esque fort that attracts hundreds of tourists daily.
The fort consists of five soaring spires and is surrounded by a large stone wall that was used for protection by previous owners.
Indoors, you’re bound to come across tremendous frescos painted by the famous Giotto.
Tickets cost 6 euros and it opens from 08:30 am to 17:00 pm.
Grab Some Lunch At Pizzeria Dalle Figlie Di Iorio (13:00 pm)
Less than a 5 minute walk from Castle Nuovo is the remarkable eatery, Pizzeria Dalle Figlie Di Iorio.
Here, you’ll find some of the best pizza in Naples, along with lots of other Neopolitan dishes that may tickle your fancy.
The friendly staff will make your eating experience in Naples a memorable one. My advice is to order the pizza.
I heard a lot of people saying it was some of the best in Italy. They weren’t lying.
Explore Quartieri Spagnoli And Get A Culture Shock (14:30 pm)
Have you ever been to a place that made you feel uncomfortable in an enjoyable way? Well, Quartieri Spagnoli is one of those places.
It’s the most hectic district in Naples that’s famous for its quaint alleyways where people hang their washing out to dry.
Walking through this bustling hub is an experience unlike any other in Europe.
As you explore, you’ll be met by locals feeding their chickens outside of their taverns whilst motorcyclists race through the streets to reach their final destination.
Thankfully, over the years, Quartieri Spagnoli has become a lot safer.
Many years ago, it was a hotspot for crime, but now tourists can roam freely through the area without being in danger.
Walk Through Via San Gregorio Armeno (15:30 pm)
Next, you’re going to take a trip to the most famous alleyway in Naples – Via San Gregorio Armeno.
You’ll find street vendors battling to win the tourists over with their sale of Pastori and nativity sculptures.
Take the chance to speak with the vendors and understand the meaning behind their business.
Back in the day, it was the home of the Roman Goddess Ceres, and her followers used to arrive with terracotta sculptures.
Today, these are the most recognized items sold at the stalls in Via San Gregorio Armeno. Plus, all of the limoncello.
Enjoy A Coffee At The Popular Café Mexico (16:30 pm)
It’s halfway through the day, you’re tired and need some rejuvenation. I have a great solution: Café Mexico.
From the working class to the hipsters, you’ll find just about anyone at Café Mexico.
The coffee here is mouth-watering and you can smell the aroma from halfway down the road.
It has a colorful style that tries to replicate a bar.
As you arrive at the premises, you may struggle to find your way to the counter as there are always businessmen meeting up for their lunchtime espresso.
Even if you aren’t a coffee drinker, seeing Café Mexico is an experience in itself.
Finish Off The Day By Indulging In Some Pizza Eating Down At Sorbillo to Figlio del Presidente (17:30 pm)
Remember, Naples is the home of pizza, which means you’re going to find some really good pizza and they don’t cost that much at all.
Before visiting Naples, I had heard so much about Sorbillo to Figlio del Presidente.
It’s a small pizza restaurant on Via dei Tribunali and it’s so good. You can find gigantic pizzas here for as little as 4 euros. Yes, I said 4 euros.
When you arrive at the pizzeria, you’ll see photos of all of the famous people who have eaten there.
One of the most famous was Bill Clinton. So, if that doesn’t tell you the pizza was good, I don’t know what can.
Enjoy Naples at Night
Is One Day in Naples Enough?
Twenty-four hours in the city of Naples is perfect.
You can visit all the attractions you like in one day. It’s not a touristy city, hence why you won’t find as many travelers in Naples as you would in Rome.
But, the experience you’ll get in Naples, you won’t find anywhere else throughout Italy.
Should You Visit Naples For One Day?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a raw, authentic Italian experience, Naples is the place to go. It has its own sense of culture that merges in with the Italian lifestyle, and that’s what makes it what it is.
There’s such a great vibe around the city. I don’t understand why so many people overlook it. When I saw photos of the hectic streets, the first thing I said to myself was, “I need to go there.”
Great food, nice people, picturesque neighborhoods, and lots of bikes. That’s what you’ll find in Naples.
How to Spend 2 Days in Naples
If you do have an extra day, why not do one of the major day trips from Naples and see the surrounding area?
The most popular day trips from Naples:
Pompeii and Vesuvius Tour
If you’re in the area and haven’t already decided you need to visit Pompeii, well, you need to visit Pompeii!
This tour from Naples visits both Pompeii and Vesuvius, two of the most important places to visit in Southern Italy!
In the morning, you’ll the Pompeii, including the Forum, the Stabian Baths, a brothel, the House of the Faun, the House of the Tragic Poet, and more.
After visiting Pompeii, take a half-hour break before beginning the second part of the tour.
Head off on a drive to the top of Mount Vesuvius through the natural beauty of pine forests and lush woods and bright yellow flowers.
Enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Enjoy a walk with a volcanologist guide who will tell you about the geological history of the volcano and its eruptions.
Book Your Skip-the-Line Pompeii and Vesuvius Tour
The Amalfi Coast Tour
Get picked up at your hotel in Naples and whisked away to a whole different world!
Explore the famous and dramatic Amalfi Coast and visit its charming surroundings. Included in this tour are stops in the beautiful villages of Ravello and Positano.
If you won’t have another chance to experience Amalfi, don’t skip it!
Book Your Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
The Island of Capri
A playground of Roman emperors, explore the lovely island of Capri on a 6-hour tour from Naples.
Admire the stunning views of the Gulf as you visit Capri’s main landmarks, including the Blue Grotto, Monte Solaro, Villa San Michele, and La Piazzetta.
Book Your Island of Capri Full-Day Tour
5 Things to Bring with You to Italy
The Lonely Planet Italy guidebook or the Rick Steves Italy guidebook for your trip. It can be kind of a pain to find the major guidebooks once you arrive in Italy, or you’ll find them overpriced.
I always like to pick mine up ahead of time.
An Unlocked Cell Phone so that you can use an Italian sim card while here to help navigate the trains.
Backup Charging Bank for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS system, and general travel genie.
A Camera since Rome is super photogenic. I use a mix of my Nikon D810 and my Samsung8 smartphone these days. (Though many of these pics in this post were on my old Nikon D40).
A Great Day Bag so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).
My current favorite is the Pacsafe Citysafe, which is especially great for Italy because it has many anti-theft features.
Italy is the only country in the world where I’ve almost been the victim of a pickpocket!
The Pacsafe Citysafe also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.
More Italy Travel Resources
I love Italy! Here are all my Italy resources to help you plan your trip, organized by destination.
Italy Country Guides
Before you leave for your trip, enjoy these books about Italy and beautiful Italy quotes to help get you inspired!
Florence
This magical Rennaisance capital belongs on everyone’s Italy bucket list. Check out this itinerary for 2 days in Florence, the best things to do in Florence and these beautiful quotes about Florence.
Milan
I adore Milan! I’m *this close* to calling it my favorite city in Italy.
While here, make sure to enjoy the best things to do in Milan, what to eat in Milan, and what to do in Milan at night! And don’t skip any of the best Milan hidden gems!
Only plan on being here for a few days? Check out my three-day Milan itinerary.
Make sure to go on a Tour of the Last Supper (and buy your tickets early!). When you’re done, check out these other beautiful Milan historic churches.
If you want to get out of the city, here are the best day trips from Milan and how to visit Lake Como from the city.
Headed to Milan from late November through early March? Check out the best things to do in Milan in winter and what to do in Milan at Christmas.
Once you’re here, use these quotes about Milan for your Instagram captions!
Finally, before you arrive, check to see if there’s a special Milan festival happening while you’ll be in the city!
Rome
Rome was the first European city I ever visited, and it stole my heart! While here, make sure to see the Roman Forum.
Looking for a history-themed day trip from Rome? You can visit Ostia Antica! (Not sure if Ostia Antica is right for you? Here’s how to choose between Ostia Antica or Pompeii).
Venice
Venice is absolutely beautiful. Use these beautiful quotes about Venice for your picture captions.
Naples & the Amalfi Coast
Headed to Naples? Here’s the perfect one-day-in-Naples itinerary.
You can enjoy these beautiful quotes about the Amalfi coast to inspire your trip!
Italy is Included in These Round-Ups
The Most Beautiful Beaches in the Mediterranean
The Best Books to Read on Vacation
The Most Beautiful Castles in the World
The Best Wine Countries in the World
Where to Go in Europe in September
The Most Underrated Cities in Europe
Before You Leave for Italy – Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
Make sure you have a valid Travel Insurance Policy because accidents happen on the road.
I use World Nomads for my long trips to Europe, and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in cities (like Rome, Milan, Venice…ahem) where tourists can be the victims of pickpockets.
Italy is the only country I’ve been to (out of almost seventy) where I’ve had someone try to pick my pocket!
I have been a paying customer of World Nomads for travel insurance for two years, and I happily recommend them. If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.
Get a Travel Insurance quote for your trip.
Pin this Naples Itinerary to Enjoy Naples in a Day!
