If you’re looking for a city that blends history, culture, and a little chaos in the best way possible, Naples has your name written all over it. This vibrant southern Italian city is all about living life on full volume.
Here’s your guide to experiencing the best of Naples, including where to get the world’s best pizza (yes, we’re making that claim), where to sip cocktails in style, and which neighborhoods will give you the most authentic taste of this wild and beautiful city.
First Things First: Pizza at Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Let’s start with what really matters—pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and there’s no place more iconic to grab a slice than Antica Pizzeria da Michele.
This historic pizzeria has been serving up its minimalist pizza since 1870. You have only four choices, and none of them have meat. Sure, it’s touristy, and yes, you’ll wait in line, but trust me, that first bite will make it all worth it.
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Descend into Art: Toledo Station
If you think train stations are just boring transit stops, you haven’t been to Toledo Station.
This is hands-down one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world. Imagine a tunnel filled with dazzling mosaics and vibrant blue art installations that make you feel like you’re diving deep into the sea. It’s almost worth buying a metro ticket just to admire the space. Toledo Station is more than just a place to catch the train—it’s an underground art gallery that captures the spirit of Naples’ bold creativity.
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Street Art & Football Love: The Maradona Mural
If there’s one thing Naples is obsessed with (other than pizza), it’s football—and one man in particular: Diego Maradona. The Argentine football legend is considered a local hero here, and his face is splashed across the city.
Murale Diego Armando Maradona - Quartieri Spagnoli
The most famous of these tributes is the Maradona mural in the Spanish Quarter. This massive mural, which towers over the neighborhood, isn’t just for football fans—it’s a symbol of Neapolitan pride. It’s a perfect place to get lost and discover the real Naples.
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Explore the Spanish Quarter
Speaking of the Spanish Quarter, this is a must-visit neighborhood. It’s gritty, it’s chaotic, and it’s absolutely authentic (a bit dangerous too). You’ll hear scooters zooming past, locals yelling out of their windows, and the smells of frying street food all around you.
This neighborhood has real heart, it’s a perfect place to get lost and discover the real Naples. Spend a few hours wandering its narrow streets, grab some street food (try cuoppo, a paper cone filled with fried seafood), and experience Naples the way the locals do. The Aperol Spritz to-go here is just 1,5€.
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Catch the Best View in Town: Castel Sant’Elmo
To get a full sense of just how beautiful Naples is, head up to Castel Sant’Elmo.
This medieval fortress sits high on a hill and offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can see everything from Mount Vesuvius to the sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Naples. While the castle itself is cool to explore, the real highlight is the 360-degree view. It’s a killer spot for a sunset, so time your visit to watch the city bathed in golden light.
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Sip Like a Local: L’Antiquario
Once you’ve ticked pizza off your list, it’s time for cocktails. And when you’re in Naples, L’Antiquario is the place to be.
This speakeasy-style bar feels like stepping back in time—dark wood, dim lighting, and cocktails that are seriously crafted to perfection. If you’re into classic cocktails with a twist, you’ll be in heaven here. The bartenders know their stuff, so let them guide you through their creative menu. Grab a Negroni or their signature twist on a spritz, sit back, and soak in the old-school vibes.
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Bonus Adventures: Day Trips from Naples
Naples is amazing, but if you’ve got extra time, it’s also the perfect jumping-off point for some epic day trips.
Think: wandering the ruins of Pompeii, chilling on the chic island of Capri, or exploring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. If you’re looking to extend your Italian adventure, be sure to check out my blog on the top 5-day trips from Naples for all the details on how to make the most of your time outside the city.
Naples has this wild energy that’s hard to explain. It’s messy, it’s loud, but it’s also incredibly charming. The city offers a raw and real experience, so pack your bags, bring an empty stomach, and get ready to fall in love with one of Italy’s most underrated cities.
My name is Tea 🫖, a Macedonian expat who has been calling Ljubljana, Slovenia, home for the past nine years. With a passion for traveling and a heart full of wanderlust, I am always on the move, ready to explore new places and try delightful cuisines —truly a self-proclaimed hedonist at heart. 🗺️
My mantra? La vita è bella" or "Life is beautiful." The joy hides in life's tiny treasures, in those simple, magical moments we often overlook. Whether it's trying a new dish, exploring a hidden gem, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, I believe that happiness lies in the everyday moments. 🧸🎀
I really enjoy organizing trips. My friends often joke about how much I plan every little detail, but when you're visiting a place, you want to make the most of your time, right? My travel expertise spans from curating detailed itineraries to recommending must-visit spots. So, if you don't like planning but love traveling, I can help you out. Just ask me for advice on museums, good places to eat, wine bars, or even secret bars!
I know Ljubljana and its surroundings intimately, but my recommendations extend beyond Slovenia. I can offer my expertise from experiences in Europe (Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Greece, Italy), Asia (Thailand: Bangkok and Phuket; Bali, Kuala Lumpur), and Africa (Egypt, Tunisia, Zanzibar).
Follow me on TikTok, Instagram & Pinterest @thecreationofus for recommendations, tips, and more. Let's make your next journey extraordinary!
