Naples, Italy is famous for its deep historical roots, iconic cuisine and its location near some of southern Italy’s most important landmarks. Sitting along the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius as its backdrop, the city offers a mix of ancient sites, local flavor and easy access to bucket-list destinations, like Pompeii and Capri. Whether you're stopping in for a day or staying longer, there are plenty of meaningful things to do in Naples.
Here are 10 things that Naples, Italy is known for.
1. Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and Neapolitan pizza is protected by strict traditional guidelines. A true Neapolitan pizza features a thin, soft crust, San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala, and is cooked quickly in a wood-fired oven. Popular pizzerias like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele and Sorbillo are often busy, but worth the wait.
2. Ruins of Pompeii & Herculaneum
Naples is the closest major city to both Pompeii and Herculaneum, ancient Roman cities that were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Walking through the preserved ruins offers a clear look into everyday life during the Roman Empire. Pompeii is larger and more famous, while Herculaneum is more compact and better preserved.
3. Spaccanapoli & the Historic Center
Spaccanapoli is a narrow street that runs through the heart of Naples’ historic center. It's one of the oldest parts of the city, and features a mix of churches, artisan shops, food vendors and locals going about their day. Walking this stretch is one of the best ways to understand Naples’ everyday rhythm.
4. Medieval Fortress: Castel Sant’Elmo
Perched on Vomero Hill, Castel Sant’Elmo is a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views over the city and bay. You can reach it by funicular (or walk up if you're up for the climb). The site is also connected to the nearby Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery and museum with art and city history exhibits.
5. Naples National Archaeological Museum
If you plan to visit Pompeii or Herculaneum, consider stopping at the Naples National Archaeological Museum first. It houses many of the original artifacts, mosaics and sculptures recovered from both sites, along with extensive Roman and Greek collections. It’s one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.
6. Lungomare Coastal Promenade
The Lungomare is Naples’ seafront promenade that stretches for several kilometers along the bay. It’s a popular place for locals and visitors alike, especially in the late afternoon. The path offers views of the sea, Vesuvius and Castel dell’Ovo, and is lined with cafes and gelaterias.
7. Royal Palace & Piazza del Plebiscito
Located in the heart of Naples, Piazza del Plebiscito is the city’s largest square. It’s bordered by the Royal Palace of Naples, which you can tour to see historical rooms and royal furnishings. The area also includes nearby attractions like the San Carlo Theatre and Galleria Umberto I.
8. Underground Naples (Napoli Sotterranea)
Naples sits atop layers of ancient tunnels, aqueducts and chambers, some dating back to Greek and Roman times. Guided tours of Napoli Sotterranea take you through sections of this underground network and explain how it was used throughout history — for water storage, wartime shelter and more.
9. Neapolitan Pastries
Beyond pizza, Naples is also known for its desserts. Sfogliatella is a shell-shaped pastry filled with sweetened ricotta and orange zest. Babà, a rum-soaked sponge cake, is another local favorite. You can find these in most pastry shops across the city, especially in the Spanish Quarter or near Via Toledo.
10. Castel dell’Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, or “Egg Castle,” is the oldest standing fortification in Naples and sits on the small island of Megaride, just off the city’s seafront. The castle gets its name from a medieval legend involving the Roman poet Virgil, who supposedly placed a magical egg in the foundation to protect the city. Today, visitors can walk through the fortress, explore its terraces and enjoy sweeping views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that offers both historical insight and a great photo opportunity.
What is Naples, Italy Known For?
Naples, Italy is known for its UNESCO-listed historic center, authentic Neapolitan pizza, proximity to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius and vibrant street life. It's a city with layers of history — from ancient Roman ruins to Spanish and Bourbon influence — and a distinct energy that sets it apart from other Italian destinations. Whether you're visiting for the food, the history or the access to the Amalfi Coast, there’s no shortage of things to do in Naples.
Explore these Naples, Italy shore excursions for a closer look at everything this historic city has to offer.
