Action Packed One Day In Naples Itinerary
Only got 24 hours to check out Naples? This guide will help visitors plan an amazing day visit.
From enjoying the world’s best pizza to exploring hidden churches and experiencing authentic Neapolitan life, travellers will discover how to pack all the highlights into one amazing day.
Naples stands apart from other Italian cities – it’s a place that engages all the senses at once.
The aroma of fresh pizza wafts through narrow streets, while locals converse in their distinctive Neapolitan dialect, all under the watchful presence of Mount Vesuvius.
There’s truly no other place quite like it.
This guide offers a carefully planned route through the city that combines essential landmarks with hidden gems.
Morning – Piazza del Plebiscito & Castel Nuovo
The iconic square in Naples is the wonderful Piazza del Plebiscitio.
Visitors walking through this large open area will find themselves immersed in a genuine Naples experience, with locals filling the streets and the aroma of coffee and pizza in the air.
Tourists will notice that right across from the square is the Royal Palace and inside is the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.
Those interested in these landmarks should check ticket availability for visiting.
From the square, visitors can make the short 8-minute walk across to Castle Nuovo.
Travellers will be impressed by the magnificent entrance to the castle, and the massive walls demonstrate how powerful the rulers must have been during the city’s heyday.
The castle was originally a Norman castle but before Castel Nuovo was built, the kings of Naples resided in Castel Capuano.
However, wanting a more strategic location by the sea, they commissioned this impressive new fortress.
The square’s name commemorates a historic vote in 1860 when the people of Naples chose to join the newly unified Kingdom of Italy.
It’s exciting to know you’ll be exploring one of the most historic parts of the city during your visit.
Afternoon – Duomo di San Gennaro (Naples Cathedral)
Another beautiful iconic place to visit is Naples Duomo di San Gennaro, also known as Naples Cathedral.
This is the city’s main church. You can expect to capture all of Naples’s cultural heritage inside and out.
The good news is that it’s free to enter, but you need to pay to enter the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro. This costs €13.00 Per Person.
Luckily, you’ll find yourself walking around in silence, admiring the amazing design that Naples is so well known for.
Some people argue that Naples Cathedral is the most beautiful building in the entire city. After visiting for yourself, you can make up your mind.
It was built in the 13th century and still stands proudly today in Naples.
Inside this cathedral, you’ll be struck by its sheer size and detail of the design.
The stunning architecture features a beautiful Neo-Gothic front with three entrances, while the interior has three impressive naves that create a truly inspiring sense of space and spirituality.
Evening – Castel Sant’Elmo
There is no better place to end your day exploring Naples than overlooking the entire city, the Bay of Naples, and the looming Mount Vesuvius far away in the distance.
The medieval castle sits atop the city’s hilltops, offering visitors an amazing vantage point over the streets of Naples.
You can enter the museum, which is full of fascinating artefacts and history dating back to the 14th century.
At night, the city becomes illuminated, and you can appreciate the view much more than during daylight hours.
The castle also features some cool modern art installations.
You’ll find a unique braille railing stretching over 30 feet along the northern wall, plus a giant metal helmet and an interesting cone-shaped sculpture with cut-out patterns in the courtyard.
Walking through the narrow paths in the castle can be a little spooky, especially with yellow lights leading the way, but once you reach the top, you’ll forget all the eerie feelings and be blown away by the spectacular view below.
You won’t be disappointed finishing off your one-day visit to Naples in Castel Sant’Elmo!
Where To Stay In Naples
Naples has plenty of unique accommodations to stay in for your trip. The best areas to stay include: Posillipo: An upscale residential area with stunning bay views and a peaceful atmosphere. Centro Storico: The historic centre, perfect for experiencing authentic Naples and being close to major attractions. Quartieri Spagnoli: A lively neighbourhood known for its narrow streets, local restaurants, and authentic Neapolitan culture.
Where To Eat In Naples
Naples is a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to pizza! Here are some must-try spots.
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
This place is a Naples institution. They keep it simple with just two types of pizza – margherita and marinara but they’re perfect. The dough, the sauce, the cheese… it’s pizza heaven!
Sorbillo
Another amazing pizzeria that locals swear by. The lines might be long, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. Their buffalo mozzarella pizza is incredible.
Tandem Ragu
If you want to try something besides pizza, head here for the best ragu in town. The sauce is simmered for hours, and it’s delicious over pasta.
Sfogliatelle Mary
Got a sweet tooth? This pastry shop makes the best tagliatelle – a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta that’s a Naples speciality.
Final Thoughts/Conclusion
Naples is so much fun! The food is to die for, the history is deep, and the streets are oozing with character.
It has to be one of Europe’s most interesting cities.
Unlike other parts of the world, like in Asia where you might love to snorkel or explore the beautiful seascape, this European city has a unique charm that stays with you long after you leave.
If you only have one day in Naples then this post can truly help you plan a fun day out.
FAQs
Is One Day Enough In Naples?
Yes, one day can be enough to see some of the best sites in Naples. You can experience the city’s unique culture, food, and vibe all within 24 hours. Castle Nuovo, Duomo di San Gennaro and Piazza del Plebiscito are just a few of the best things to see in Naples.
What Is The Best Day Trip From Naples?
There are many amazing day trips from Naples. You can visit Sorrento, Rome, Positano and even Amalfi. Some of the most beautiful parts of Italy can be found south of Naples and I urge people to make a day trip south if you have the time.
Is Naples A Walkable City?
Naples is a large but walkable city. You can walk to the most popular attractions in Quartieri Spagnoli and Centro Storico. Spending one day walking through Naples is a fun way to see one of the best cities in Italy.