As Italy’s third largest city, Naples has a vibrant culture and rich history. It’s a great destination for tourists and small enough that most of its major attractions can be experienced in just a couple of days. If a trip to Italy is in your foreseeable future, consider making a stop in Napoli part of your plans. From exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii to enjoying some of the world’s best pizza, here’s how we recommend spending a weekend.
Start at the Historic Center
Known locally as “centro storico,” the cobblestone streets and Baroque architecture of Naples’ historic center have earned it a designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the alleys and be sure to check out the Royal Palace, Piazza del Plebiscito, and the Naples Cathedral.
Stop for Pizza
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and even over 150 years later, Neapolitan pizza is still regarded as the best in the world. For authentic Margherita pizza, stop by L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. If you’re in the mood to indulge, head to Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo for pizze fritte, a deep-fried pizza similar to a calzone.
Visit Pompeii
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was buried under volcanic ash in 79 AD. The ruins are now an archaeological site that’s easily accessible from Naples by train. Tickets are €11,00 and entry is free on the first Sunday of every month. We recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid long lines.