Naples, Italy Hotels and City Guide

Naples - Attractions

Naples Attractions

Throughout the years, Naples has been a popular tourist destination. A city like no other in Italy, Naples appeals to the adventurous traveller - its loud, unruly and somewhat overwhelming atmosphere can surprise visitors at the beginning, but after a few days they will invariably find Naples to be one of the most exciting cities in the world.

As a very old city, Naples is home to an array of interesting archaeological sites, historic museums and art galleries. With its pleasant sunny climate, delicious cuisine and friendly people, Naples is indeed a place to visit. A wide range of Naples hotels provide comfortable accommodation to the visitors, while they soak in the city's historic splendour.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum houses one of the best Greek and Roman artefact collections, including the mosaics and sculptures from Pompeii and Herculaneum and the impressive Farnese antiques. On the mezzanine levels, visitors will be able to see stunning works of art such as the Battle of Alexander - regarded as the finest depiction of the great Macedonian emperor.

Royal Palace

This majestic palace, dating back to the 17th century, is among the most visited attractions in Naples. On the facade stand eight commanding statues of the most important kings of Naples. Within the palace chambers, visitors can see breathtaking paintings, tapestries, antiques and porcelain.

Catacombe di San Gennaro

A two-storey underground cemetery, dating back to the 2nd century, the catacomb features fascinating frescoes and mosaics. In the 5th century, the remnants of San Gennaro were buried here and the venue became a pilgrimage.

Aquarium

The Aquarium is located in Villa Comunale Municipal Park, between Via Caracciolo and the Riviera di Chiaia. Dating back to the 1800s, this is the oldest aquarium in Europe, and features over 200 species of marine life found in the Bay of Naples.

Castle of the Egg

One of the most historic attractions in Naples, the Castle of the Egg is believed to be the original Greek settlement of Parthenope. Overlooking the Gulf of Naples, this 2000-year-old fortress offers panoramic views.

Carthusian Monastery of San Martino & National Museum of San Martino

Founded as a Carthusian monastery in the 14th century, the museum was renovated in the 17th century in Neapolitan baroque style. The walls and ceilings feature enchanting frescoes, and the museum houses two stately carriages, historic documents, ships' replicas, china and porcelain and ancient silver. The breathtaking view from the monastery's balconies is an attraction in itself that lures many visitors to this historic site.

Duomo

This stately cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint, San Gennaro. Inside the chapel, there is a skull and a couple of phials of the congealed blood of San Gennaro - the saviour of the city - and three times a year, thousands gather here to pray for the safety of Naples.

Basilica Di Santa Chiara

Basilica Di Santa Chiara is a fine example of Italy's restoration expertise. The Gothic designs are excellent recreations of the 14th century Gagliardo Primario designs. Originally built to house monks and tombs of the Angevin royal family, the Basilica Di Santa Chiara today exhibits beautiful paintings and sculptures.

National Museum & Gallery of the Capodimonte

Two of the finest museums and galleries of Italy, the National Museum & Gallery of the Capodimonte are housed in the 18th century Capodimonte Palace, set amidst a scenic park. Large tapestries depicting battle scenes, stunning works of art of the Renaissance period, Venetian sedan chairs, ivory carvings, Farnese armoury as well as a glass and china collection are all housed in this museum and gallery.

Hotels in Naples, Italy