Photo by Danilo D'Agostino on Unsplash
“He who doesn’t love Naples, has yet to learn how to love life.” - Anonymous
You hear that, gentlemen?
That’s the truth.
Naples is one of those cities that is quintessentially Italian.
Everything you love about Italy has increased tenfold in this city.
And the best part? It’s incredibly affordable.
So there’s no reason to skip out on Naples during your travels to Italy. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the highlights of backpacking the Italian peninsula.
Are you ready to find out why? Then keep reading this article to access instant insights and practical tips & tricks on how to experience the best that Naples has to offer without breaking your wallets. Here we go!
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. Streetwise Explorers: Dive into the Depths of the Historic Center
Piazza del Plebiscito.
Gentlemen, the historic center of Naples - A.K.A. the heart of the city, or Centro Storico - is where the charm of the regional capital of Campania really is.
Filled with narrow streets, a vibrant atmosphere, colorful buildings, and an INCREDIBLY rich history dating back all the way to 2000 BC, Naples’ Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its hidden and not so hidden gems like Piazza Bellini, Piazza del Plebiscito, Via San Gregorio Armeno, and the bustling markets of Spaccanapoli.
The narrow alleys, bustling squares, and hidden courtyards that date back to ancient times are just some of the incredible, time-transporting experiences you will have when visiting the third largest city in Italy. As you wander through Naples’ labyrinthine streets, you'll encounter a fascinating mix of architectural styles, from medieval churches to Baroque palaces, each bearing witness to Naples' rich and storied past.
Speaking of Naples’ history, be sure to visit the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli), which was constructed around 800 years ago between the 13th and 14th centuries. With its stunning Gothic facade, breathtaking frescoes, and breathtaking interior, the Duomo di Napoli is one of THE must visit places for you to check out when visiting Naples.
Another unmissable activity for you to partake in when traveling around Naples is visiting the San Gregorio Armeno church, famous for its intricate nativity scenes, and considered to be one of the essential Baroque complexes in Naples. Having taken over a century to complete - indeed, construction started in 1572 and ended in 1687 -, this house of prayer is considered to be one of the - if not THE - most beautiful churches in Naples. You’d be nuts not to transport yourself back in time by visiting it.
Aside from this, Naples has an incredibly charming, noisy, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s not for everybody, and the Historic Center buzzes with life, offering a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that capture the essence of Naples' unique character.
From the lively street markets selling fresh produce and local delicacies to the traditional pizzerias and trattorias serving up mouthwatering Neapolitan cuisine - which we’ll go more in depth in later on in this article -, every corner of the Centro Storico is a feast for the senses.
As for a feast for the eyes, make sure you visit Piazza del Plebiscito, a public square in Central Naples built in the first half of the 19th century - and officially opened to the public in 1846. Not only does this plaza have an incredibly rich history involving Napoleon, and his brother -in-law, Murat, then The King of Naples; it’s also often a stadium for open-air concerts, with the likes of Maroon 5, Elton John, Muse, and even Bruce Springsteen having performed here.
Piazza del Plebiscito is a place I frequented almost every night during my stay in Naples, as it’s free to visit, and is incredibly epic and stunning - it literally transports you back in time several centuries! At nighttime, it’s a great place to look up at the sky and see the stars - particularly in the spring & summer as that is when they’re most visible -, since the plaza goes completely dark at night, really harking back to pre-electricity eras.
Speaking of bygone eras, one of the joys of exploring the Historic Center is stumbling upon noteable gems and unexpected surprises around every corner, from centuries-old artisan workshops - where you can watch skilled craftsmen at work -, to wandering into a quaint neighborhood and sampling authentic Neapolitan espresso inside a quiet cafe.
That said, Naples' Historic Center is not just a collection of old buildings; it's a living, breathing testament to the city's cultural heritage and resilience. Despite its tumultuous history of conquests, revolutions, and natural disasters, the Centro Storico has endured, retaining its unique identity and charm through the ages.
Whether you’re taking the time to interact with the locals who call this vibrant neighborhood home, striking up a conversation with a friendly shopkeeper, or sampling street food from a bustling market stall, the Historic Center of Naples is an adventure in itself.
This region is a glimpse into the soul of this ancient city and the colorful tapestry of history, culture, and tradition that defines it. So lace up your shoes, open up the Google Maps app, and prepare to lose yourself in the enchanting streets of Naples' Centro Storico.
2. Lost Worlds: Journeying through Time in the Ruins of Pompeii
As I take the train from Naples to Pompeii, which is about a 30-50 minute ride, I’m beyond excited to see the lost city, which was destroyed by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius almost 2000 years ago, in 79 C.E.
Arriving at the Pompeii Archaeological Park, I am impressed and taken aback by what I witness.
Remarkably preserved buildings - including homes, shops, temples, and even a giant amphitheater -, intricate frescoes adorning the walls of wealthy villas that somehow survived the volcanic blast, in addition to well-preserved baths, brothels, and public buildings.
Crazy to think about how all of these structures were once filled with people, and alive with activity.
As such, Pompeii's ruins provide invaluable insights into the daily lives of its former inhabitants, offering a window into ancient Roman society, culture, and customs.
When you check out the remains of bakeries, taverns, and market stalls to get a sense of the city's bustling commercial life, or visit the beautifully preserved House of the Vettii to see how Pompeii's elite lived in luxury, you get an idea of how their society relates to and has influenced ours.
Walking through the silent streets of Pompeii, surrounded by the haunting ruins of a once-thriving city, evokes a sense of awe and wonder; it’s pretty surreal.
The eerie atmosphere of the ruins, combined with the distant rumblings of Mount Vesuvius in the background, creates an unforgettable experience.
Because it was raining when I went, the rumbling sounds of thunder added to the roaring of Mount Vesuvius in the background, so it was particularly atmospheric.
It’s also just a beautiful place to experience.
One of the joys of exploring Pompeii is uncovering its hidden treasures, which include ancient graffiti scrawled on the walls of buildings, in addition to the well-preserved mosaics and sculptures that adorn its public spaces; there's always something new and fascinating to discover around every corner.
Tickets can range from €23 - €100+, depending where you’re traveling from (i.e. you can book tickets to Pompeii from Rome), whether you book a guide, audio guide, or independent tour, and how much you want to squeeze into one day - i.e. you can book tickets to Mount Vesuvius, which we’ll talk about in the next point, and Pompeii in one day; those are obviously more expensive.
To guide you through the ruins, I recommend doing a guided tour led by a knowledgeable archaeologist and / or historian. It’s by far the most informative and comprehensive / best way to experience visiting the city, and well worth the extra money if you can afford it.
If not, audio guided, or even self-guided walking tours are still a great way to enjoy the city. You might not know as much about what you’re looking at with the latter, and you’ll still have a blast; an incredibly memorable experience.
I highly recommend setting aside some money for this experience as it’s arguably the quintessential Naples experience to have, alongside Vesuvius.
Whether you choose to explore independently or with a guide, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring an umbrella or a rain jacket if it’s raining - the ruins are outside after all -, pack plenty of water, and allow yourself lots of time to fully immerse yourself in Pompeii's lost world.
Because let’s face it, you’re going to be taking A LOT of photos while you’re there - and yes, even if you hate selfies, you probably will take a few.
Exploring the ruins of Pompeii is a journey through time unlike any other, offering a rare opportunity to step back in history and witness the splendor and tragedy of an ancient civilization preserved for eternity.
So pack your curiosity, prepare to be transported, and get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the lost world of Pompeii.
3. Peak Pursuit: Conquering the Fire-Breathing Giant of Southern Italy
Photo by Gregory Smirnov on Unsplash
And now onto the volcano that destroyed Pompeii.
One of my biggest regrets is not visiting Mount Vesuvius when I was in Naples.
I don’t recall if it was a fear of volcanos or sold out tickets that prevented me from experiencing the climb up to Vesuvius, and either way, it’s one of those experiences that I really want to have.
Mount Vesuvius is one of the most well-known and active volcanoes in the world. Famous for its catastrophic eruption in 79 AD that buried the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, it now stands as a towering geological wonder.
Visiting Vesuvius National Park offers an opportunity to explore not just the volcano itself; also the breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples from its summit.
Speaking of the Bay of Naples, the journey to Mount Vesuvius begins with a stunning drive along the winding roads that snake their way up the slopes of the volcano.
Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages and lush vineyards. Meanwhile, stunning views of the Bay of Naples unfold before you.
That said, once you arrive at the base of Mount Vesuvius, that’s where the real adventure begins.
This is because you can hike to the summit of the volcano, a challenging but rewarding trek that takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The trail winds its way through volcanic ash and rocky terrain, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside along the way.
At the summit of Mount Vesuvius, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, the city of Naples, and the surrounding countryside stretching out as far as the eye can see. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of the islands of Capri and Ischia shimmering on the horizon.
As you explore the summit of Mount Vesuvius, you'll have the opportunity to observe fascinating geological features, including the crater itself. While the volcano is still active, with occasional steam vents and fumaroles emitting gas from deep within the earth, you can safely observe these natural phenomena from designated viewing areas.
Mount Vesuvius has a long history of volcanic activity, with numerous eruptions recorded throughout the centuries. During your trip to the volcano, you can learn about its: geological history, impact on the surrounding landscape, and the ongoing efforts to monitor and study its behavior at the Vesuvius Observatory located nearby.
At the base of Mount Vesuvius, you'll find facilities including a designated parking area, ticket office, and souvenir shops. There are also guided tours available for those who prefer a more informative experience, with knowledgeable guides leading groups to the summit and providing insights into the volcano's history and geology.
Visiting Vesuvius National Park is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that offers a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
Tickets to enter the park itself are €10, though if you combine it with your visit to Pompeii, then tickets usually start at €45, and go higher, depending on the agency you book with, and what kind of excursion you choose as well as whether or not you book a guided trip. Here are the official ticket details.
Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a history buff, a trip to Mount Vesuvius promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Italy's volcanic landscape.
4. Street Food Warriors: Conquering Naples' Culinary Kingdom
Gentlemen, do you like pizza?
The first thing you want to know is that Naples is the birthplace of pizza.
Therefore, no visit to Naples would be complete without sampling pizza, specifically a classic Margherita. Made with simple yet high-quality ingredients—tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra-virgin olive oil—this iconic Neapolitan dish is a testament to the city's culinary heritage.
Some great pizzerias in the city include 50 Kalò, Sorbillo, and L’Antica Pizzeria De Michele, among many, MANY others.
As a matter of fact, it is commonly believed among locals that street pizza fried in oil is the best kind of pizza available in Naples. These pizzas are particularly popular in the Spanish Quarter, which formerly had a reputation for being quite dangerous, and are now incredibly popular among tourists.
Speaking of tourists, Naples is also renowned for its fried street food, including arancini (stuffed rice balls), crocchè (potato croquettes), and panzerotti (fried calzones). These savory snacks are perfect for on-the-go eating and are often served piping hot from street vendors and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
And to finish off your meal and satisfy your sweet tooth, try a sfogliatella, a traditional Neapolitan pastry filled with ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and orange zest. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, sfogliatella is an incredible dessert - if you’re into sweets that is.
Since Naples is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, there’s a lot of seafood traditions there. Dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), frittura di paranza (mixed fried seafood), and insalata di mare (seafood salad) are particularly popular - and tasty - at traditional trattorias and seafood restaurants, especially along or near the waterfront.
Some of these restaurants include Trattoria La Lazzara, Vinecó Ristorante & Pizzeria, and Re Lazzarone, among many, MANY others.
You’re going to see upon doing research for some of these restaurants that some of them are WAY more expensive than others - especially the fine dining ones.
I’m not by any means suggesting you have to go to these ones; you can get a really good meal - pasta, seafood, and all - at one of the more regularly priced restaurants that won’t break your wallet.
In addition to the excellent seafood cuisine, Naples is also home to a thriving coffee culture, with espresso being a part of daily life.
The best coffee bars (caffès) include Coffee Central, Don Café Street Art Coffee, Gran Caffè Gambrinus, amongst tons of others.
And the best part? They’re all no more than €2-10, so you can enjoy them every day if you want.
Remember, espressos, cappuccinos, and caffè lattes are all Italian creations, so they taste particularly good here. It’s common - though obviously optional - for people to purchase a caffè sospeso (suspended coffee), where you pay for an extra coffee to be enjoyed by someone in need - basically an act of charity.
And finally, you can finish your culinary adventures with Neapolitan desserts that are as rich in history as they are in flavor.
Creamy gelatos from one of Naples' many legendary gelaterias are just one of the many ways to indulge in sweets. Another is to grab a slice of ricotta-filled pastiera (Easter cake), or savor a crunchy sfogliatella riccia (flaky pastry filled with sweet ricotta cream).
You can join a food tour led by knowledgeable local guides, or even head to a street food market, much like the one I spoke about in Florence.
5. Castle Crusaders: Storming the Gates of Castel dell'Ovo
One of the coolest attractions to participate in when visiting Naples is stepping inside the Ovo Castle, a seafront castle on the Gulf of Naples.
Perched majestically on the picturesque island of Megaride, Castel dell'Ovo is a symbol of the city's rich history and maritime heritage. Its distinctive egg-shaped silhouette dominates the skyline and serves as a beacon for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Naples' storied past.
Castel dell'Ovo actually has ancient origins dating back to Roman times, making it the oldest castle in Naples - and one of the oldest standing structures in the city.
And the best part is that it's FREE. That’s right gentlemen - you don’t have to pay a single cent to go inside here.
According to legend, the castle's name—literally translating to "Castle of the Egg"—is derived from the poet Virgil, who is said to have hidden a magical egg within its walls to protect the city from disaster.
Exploring the castle's imposing exterior and marveling at its medieval, 13th century architecture is one of the coolest things you could do while you’re here.
The architecture shows the diverse influences of the various civilizations that have ruled Naples throughout the centuries; its stone walls, fortified towers, and sweeping views of the bay, which provide a glimpse into the castle's strategic importance as a defensive stronghold, are a sight to behold.
Inside Castel dell'Ovo, you’ll find a treasure trove of art, history, and culture waiting to be explored.
You can also check out the castle's inner courtyard, where archaeological excavations have revealed ancient Roman artifacts, or visit the Museo Civico, which houses a collection of medieval and Renaissance artworks.
You can also go up to the castle's rooftop terrace, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Its rugged coastline, and the majestic views of Mount Vesuvius looming in the distance are like something from a painting; you almost don’t believe what you’re seeing in front of you.
This means a lot of photo opportunities, as you’ll want to take photos of the bay and Mount Vesuvius from every angle. When you’re done, you’ll take in the breathtaking scenery of the bay, and imagine the countless ships that have sailed here throughout history.
In addition to its rich history, Castel dell'Ovo is steeped in maritime legends and folklore, adding an extra layer of intrigue and mystery to your visit.
According to legend, the castle is home to the spirit of the siren Parthenope, whose haunting song lured ancient sailors to their doom.
The castle is also known for its labyrinthine corridors and secret passageways that you’ll get to walk through, and let your imagination run wild as you uncover the mysteries of its ancient past.
As with most museums and historical sites, you can take a guided tour through Castel dell’Ovo, though it might cost you a little bit. It’s up to you though, no harm if it’s something you want to do, so long as it fits into your spending plan!
And if you really want to enjoy Naples’ seaside views for free, then in addition to getting a free, unguided entry to the castle, you might want to experience…
6. Seaside Serenity: Unwinding Along Naples' Waterfront Promenade
Photo by Danilo D'Agostino on Unsplash
We’ll keep this one short, gentlemen.
As we already mentioned, the coastline of the Bay of Naples is one of the most stunning parts of the city.
Naples' waterfront promenade, known as Lungomare Caracciolo, stretches for miles along the Bay of Naples.
Lined with palm trees, charming cafes, and incredible viewpoints of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, the promenade offers stunning views of the azure sea, the iconic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius, and - if you look towards land - the city skyline.
Since backpacking involves a lot of hiking, walking, and exercise, I highly recommend you take a stroll or a bike ride - perhaps even daily - along Lungomare Caracciolo, and experience the views, oceanic smells, and relaxing sounds of Naples' waterfront.
The promenade offers an ideal setting not just for exercise, photography, and breathtaking views; also for meditation and self-reflection.
Watch as fishing boats and sailboats glide across the sparkling waters, or simply sit back and enjoy the mesmerizing sight of the sun setting.
That’s right, gentlemen, as you might imagine, the walkway is particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset, since that’s when the sky changes colors - and becomes orange, purple, and pink -, and you can see the sun rising from or falling below the horizon, casting a glow over the seascape.
You can also engage in some seaside dining, since so many of the restaurants are located along the Bay, with their patios looking out at the sea.
Having an outdoor meal in the spring or summer - particularly a seafood meal since everything is freshly caught from the neighboring gulf - or a refreshing beverage at one of the many cafes, restaurants, or gelaterias that line the Bay of Naples is one of the best and most luxurious experiences you can have on a budget while you’re in Naples - since you don’t have to break your wallet to have a coffee, some ice cream, or even dinner, depending on where you decide to eat.
From freshly caught seafood dishes to traditional Neapolitan pizza, pasta, and gelato, there's something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds; paired with stunning views of the Naples coastline, you’re in for a treat and one of the most opulent experiences in the city.
Not far from the waterfront - perhaps a five to ten minute walk away - you’ll find the Galleria Umberto I, an elegant shopping mall built between 1887 - 1890 with stunning architecture and bustling cafes.
There are also some beaches if you’re there in the summer, and want to cool off with a refreshing swim in the salty waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
You can rent a beach umbrella and lounge chair if you have the excess cash, though realistically, who needs to spend money on such superfluousness when you can just throw a beach towel on the sand, put on some sunglasses, and chill, or join a game of beach volleyball with the locals.
But yeah, other than that, gentlemen, there’s no reason why you can’t go and enjoy Naples, Italy on a budget.
I’m proof that you can.
Just make sure to always have your belongings safely locked up in your hostel or Airbnb, and ensure that your valuables are safely attached to your body - i.e. inside a fanny pack or backpack.
As with many places in Europe, Naples is abound with thieves and pickpockets, and I actually had a backpack of mine stolen on the train ride from Florence to Naples because I fell asleep - which resulted in a bit of a crisis as my thyroid meds were in that backpack and I thought I might need to return home from my backpacking trip early since I can’t go more than a few days without those meds.
Thankfully, my doctor’s receptionist back home in Canada spoke Italian, so when I called her, she told me to go to the pharmacy in Naples, and was able to speak to the pharmacist for me.
So don’t make the same mistake that I did; don’t fall asleep on the train.
Other than that, go out there, and have a great time.
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Until next time, stay strong, safe, and resilient out there; we’ll see you all next week!