I wasn't sure what I expected going into Naples since it seemed to have a bad reputation, however it blew my expectations out of the water. The food scene here is incredible, every street was unique in it's own way, the people were warm and it was SO CHEAP!
Being the place that invented pizza, I of course had to get some and WOW was it ever good. They also had the cheapest aperol spritz I've seen in Italy so far and to me, that's worth the visit.
We stayed here for one night and then came back again for a day trip since there were so many things to do! One of our friends said you could live in Naples for 10 years and not come close to seeing it all. Safe to say, you'll never be bored here. Here are a list of things to do and where to eat for your trip to Naples.
Things to do:
EAT. Every corner you walk there is a new spot to check out. Street food is an absolute must. Don't fill yourself up from one meal/one spot, do a food tour and try little things from each place.
2. Museums. There is so much history to dive into in this city. From art to religious sites to underground tunnels to explore there is something for everyone. Most museums/galleries cost around 10€ to enter, however there are 6 museums that you can enter for free: https://whichmuseum.co.uk/place/naples-2408/free#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20on%20a,can%20be%20visited%20without%20charge.
3. Get a blowout. Random, I know. My sister and I walked by a salon and the sign said 8€ shampoo and style so how could you not? Great and cheap way to feel fresh during a vacation!
4. Take a pizza making class. What better way to learn than from the place where pizza came from?
5. Get lost in the old town. Like I said, every street is unique in its own way. There are so many different areas in Napoli to explore, the Spanish Quarter being my favourite. Walking down the alleys is truly where you find the character of Naples.
6. Walk along the promenade. This 3km stretch is the perfect spot for a sunset stroll. Also has a beautiful view of Mt Vesuvius.
7. Take a day trip. Naples is in the heart of all the action, whether you want to dive into more history in Pompeii or sunbathe on the beach along the Amalfi Coast. Naples is a quick train/ferry to any of these spots.
Where to eat:
L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. If you're going to get pizza in Naples, you have to go to the spot that created the pizza. You can either grab a takeout pizza which takes about an hour (yes it's that popular). Or, you can grab a number and wait for a table, this can take between 1-2 hours. This option gives you the freedom to walk around the area, grab a drink or go down the shopping street.
2. Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare. Another pizza stop, however this menu has a variety of options and they are all drool worthy. Gino has two locations however, this one being right on the water, makes it a pretty nice spot.
3. Tandem - Via Paladino. If you are a meat eater, this is the spot. Try the rich ragù piled high atop of an array of pasta dishes.
4. Cibi Cotti Nonna Anna. This is the spot the locals go when they miss Nonna's cooking. So for people like myself who don't have an Italian Nonna, it's a good place to pretend.
5. Pizzeria Concettina Ai Tre Santi. Shocker, another pizza spot. However this family has been flipping dough for +70 years and they know what they are doing. I consider this pizza with a twist, they have things like artichoke stuffed crust and deep fried za's.
Naples is a place to absolutely add to your Italy itinerary. It does feel a bit 'dirtier' compared to lots of places in Italy, however it has it's charm and true authentic culture. Just like anywhere, watch your belongings and use common sense while walking (especially at night)