The Infinite Perspectives of Naples: 17 Iconic, Spectacular and Special Places to Visit
Naples is a kaleidoscope of sensations, emotions and spectacular places hidden throughout the city and beyond: you only need to move away a little to go beyond the city itself and discover other priceless treasures, such as the archaeological parks of Pompeii and Herculaneum or the islands.
In this article we present, briefly, 17 iconic, spectacular and special places to visit in the Neapolitan city and its surroundings: may superstition be with you.
The islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri
Let's start with a tip that is worth three destinations, the islands of Procida, Capri and Ischia, which are approximately 1 hour by ferry from the port. Exploring these pearls also means experiencing the most authentic history rich in culture and enjoying the natural spas of Ischia.
Don't underestimate the islands and the coast, also because simply by relying on a boat rental in Naples it will be possible to explore the coasts, sail from Procida to Ischia and see the city from another perspective: that of the sea that embraces them.
Herculaneum and Pompeii
These are two archaeological sites that show us the two ancient cities intact: as they were approximately two thousand years ago. The archaeological park of Pompeii It is less than 1 hour from the center of Naples and there are also guided tours and many historical finds.
Underground Naples: the city within the city
If you suffer from claustrophobia, forget it, but if you are passionate about archaeology or are curious, go down 40 meters below the city to discover ancient Greco-Roman finds and a theater, where Nero supposedly performed. The entrance is on Via dei Tribunali.
The Veiled Christ in the Sansevero Chapel
Il Veiled Christ It is an absolute masterpiece of sculpture, made by Giuseppe Sanmartino: the veil made of marble seems transparent and the play of light is enchanting. This statue is worth a visit and the advice is to book the ticket online to avoid long queues.
Castel dell'Ovo and the Lungomare Caracciolo
Castel dell'Ovo dominates the Gulf of Naples with its thousand-year history, overlooking the suggestive Lungomare Caracciolo, ideal for panoramic walks between the sea, boats, restaurants and breathtaking sunsets over Vesuvius and the island of Capri.
Spaccanapoli, San Gregorio Armeno and Via dei Tribunali
Spaccanapoli is the street that splits the city in two and reaches the gates of Forcella. Inside there is all the most authentic Naples, like San Gregorio Armeno: the street of nativity scenes and the most ironic and traditional statues.
Going up this street you arrive at Via dei Tribunali, where there are the famous pizzerias Il Presidente, Di Matteo, Attanasio, Donna Sofia, Decumani and Sorbillo.
Certosa di San Martino and the skyline of Naples
The Certosa di San Martino is the highest point of the city and from there it is possible admire Naples in all its majesty, with Capri, Procida and Ischia waving from afar.
Plebiscito Square and Chiaia Street
The heart of the most iconic Naples, where the beauty of Piazza Plebiscito beats. Going up to its left you arrive at Via Chiaia, the center of the nightlife and with the bars that serve some of the best coffee in the city, while behind the Piazza you find the Royal Palace.
Spanish Quarters and Maradona Museum
The Spanish Quarters are an area of the city that has been completely revalued in the last few years, today it is a lively tourist center with restaurants, pubs and clubs of various kinds for every taste.
The Maradona Mural is one of the most visited icons, at its feet there are several memorabilia and photos, while a few steps away is the official Maradona Museum, where there is even his favorite locker room bench. Curiosity: going up Spaccanapoli in the opposite direction to Forcella, you arrive near the Spanish Quarters.