Wondering how best to spend 2 days in Naples? On this page you will find a complete done-for-you Naples itinerary with maps, links and instructions for how to spend 48 hours in this busy Italian city.
I have travelled extensively throughout this region, with my most recent visit being in September 2022. Naples is a big city, so it will help to know where all the attractions are and how to get to them. Be sure to read my other Naples posts and Italy posts before your trip.
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Naples Itinerary: 2 Days in Naples
If you’re considering a trip to Naples, it’s a good idea to plan ahead because there are so many different places to visit and things to do in Naples. You can find travel tips and links for tickets in my main Naples travel guide article.
Further reading: Naples Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting Napoli, Italy.
What are the main attractions in Naples, Italy?
Here is a list of all the places you will visit on this itinerary for 2 days in Naples (these are jump links – you can click each one to go straight to the relevant section in this post).
- Piazza del Plebiscito
- Galleria Umberto
- Naples National Architecture Museum
- Spaccanapoli
- Via Toledo
- Naples Cathedral
- Naples old town or Piazza Bellini
- Pompeii, Herculaneum or Vesuvius
- Naples Underground
- Castel dell Ovo
- Chiaia
- Comunale Park
You will also get to sample the famous Naples pizza, pasta and sfogliatella too!
How to spend 2 Days in Naples Italy
Here is your itinerary for spending 2 days in Naples. There is a lot to do – you could stretch this over 3 days if you preferred. Some of the attractions you may just want to see, rather than go inside.
Day 1 – Seeing the sights in central Naples
Your first day in Naples will provide you with a good overview of what the city has to offer.
Map of Day 1 in Naples
You can walk to all of the places on your itinerary today. The total distance is 5km and would take about 1 hour to walk if you didn’t actually stop anywhere (just for your reference). If you click on the directions in the map below, you can get step-by-step walking instructions from Google.
Below is your itinerary for day 1:
Morning: Start your first day in Naples in the city centre
Start your morning with a walk through the city centre, taking in views of Mount Vesuvius from Piazza del Plebiscito (the main square) before making your way down Via Toledo and heading towards Spaccanapoli.
Morning Stroll: Plebiscito Square
Plebiscito Square is a public square in the centre of Naples. It is located on the edge of the historical centre, between Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and Via Benedetto Croce. Have a stroll around and admire all the buildings. You are also not far from the Spanish Quarter here.
The name Plebiscito comes from plebiscite, which means “decision of all citizens”. The square was built in 1820 by Joachim Murat, who was the king of Naples (he had been elected as such after Napoleon Bonaparte).
Breakfast: Galleria Umberto
The Galleria Umberto is a shopping mall built in 1867 and named after King Umberto I of Italy by his wife Queen Margherita. The Galleria Umberto is situated at the heart of Naples’ city centre, near Piazza Trieste e Trento and Via Toledo (the main street of the city). There are cafes and coffee shops inside where you can have breakfast.
Try the famous sfogliatella for breakfast
While in Naples, you must try the famous Napoli pastries, the sfogliatella. This pastry has a delicate crust and a soft, creamy centre. It’s usually filled with simple ricotta cheese or jam. You can buy them at any bakery in Naples, but you might have to ask for one by name since they are not always on display.
Further reading: Food from Naples: all the best foods, and where to eat them.
After breakfast: Naples National Archaeological Museum
The Naples National Archaeological Museum is an ancient museum. It houses a collection of more than 1 million objects, including artefacts from the Greek, Roman and Neapolitan eras. The museum was founded by Ferdinand II of Bourbon in 1819 and opened its doors to the public three years later.
You’ll need about two hours to see the highlights of the museum, and you can buy your tickets here. The museum is not open on Tuesdays.
Lunchtime: Lunch on Spaccanapoli
Spaccanapoli is the most famous street in Naples, so called because it ‘splits’ Naples in two (the name means ‘Naples Splitter’). It’s an ancient world of crumbling palazzos and unique architectural styles. This place is crazy busy, with a fascinating gritty chaos.
The Spaccanapoli is officially known as Via San Biagio dei Librai, but more often referred to by its various other names. Its neighbouring street, Via dei Tribunali, is commonly mistaken for Spaccanapoli due to their similar atmospheres.
Spaccanapoli is home to some of the best street food in Italy. Try out a cuoppo – a cone filled with freshly fried seafood and veggies, or if you’re in more of a pizza mood, try either a folded pizza a portafoglio or deep-fried variations like pizza fritta.
You can also get more crunchy sfogliatella or babà sponge cakes drenched in rum syrup here too.
Afternoon: Shopping on Via Toledo
Next you will be strolling along Via Toledo, the main shopping street in Naples. This street is located just north of Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel dell Ovo (remember to use your map above). It’s a good place to shop for designer brands and jewellery, as well as authentic Italian leather goods.
If you’re looking for something more traditional or local, try visiting Via San Gregorio Armeno, where it is always Christmas! Nestled in between Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali, this pedestrian-only street is lined with shops selling Naples’ renowned presepe (nativity figures). These unique works of art are hand crafted, painted and detailed to perfection – no two pieces identical.
Late Afternoon: The Cathedral of Naples
The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, or famously known as the Duomo of Naples, is one of the most renowned churches in all Naples. It was built in 1346 and served as the official cathedral until 1823. Today, it’s a museum for art and religious artefacts from before that date.
Spend time here and see several relics related to the patron saint San Gennaro. The grandest item is the vial containing this 4th century saint’s congealed blood!
The Festival of San Gennaro happens three times a year. Here spectators gather to see if the blood in the vial will miraculously liquefy, which would be a sign for good luck in Naples. The blood usually liquefies, but unfortunately on December 16th 2020 it failed to do so. This was deemed as bad luck for Naples.
There is a lot to see at the cathedral, and entrance is free.
Evening: Head to the Old Town or Piazza Bellini for Dinner
Walk down the chaotic Via Dei Tribunali towards the old town (or the Piazza Bellini, both are in the same area). Naples is known for its pizza, but if you’ve already had pizza today, try the pasta. In particular, Naples is renowned for dishes like spaghetti alle vongole and risotto alla pescatora, so consider these dishes for your dinner in the old town.
If you’re looking for something a little more suited for younger crowds, check out the Piazza Bellini for delicious cocktails, light bites and a relaxed party atmosphere.
You might be tired after today – time to head back to your hotel to get some much needed rest before another full day tomorrow.
Day 2 – Volcano Sites and Naples Underground
At this point in the itinerary, you’ve had a chance to explore Naples and its surrounding areas. Now it’s time for your second day!
Map of Day 2 in Naples
You’ll need to drive or take a tour for your morning half-day trip. Once you have returned, the rest of your itinerary is walkable, with a total distance of 6km. The walking part would take about 1 hour and 10 minutes if you didn’t actually stop anywhere (just for your reference). If you click on the directions in the map below, you can get step-by-step walking instructions from Google.
Morning: Half-day trip to Pompeii/Vesuvius/Herculaneum
Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius are all within an hour’s drive of each other. Naples is a busy city and I usually recommend taking a tour rather than hiring a car. You can book tours here. If you are going to drive, I recommend Discover Cars for rental cars.
Pompeii is the most popular (and largest) site, with some 2 million visitors per year. It’s well worth visiting if you want to see some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. If you have already seen Pompeii, then Herculaneum is just as impressive. It was destroyed in the same volcanic eruption as Pompeii and actually has more remains intact for you to see (and less crowds).
Alternatively if you are feeling adventurous, you could climb Mount Vesuvius! Here are some ticket options for you to look into:
- Pompeii half-day afternoon trip
- Pompeii fast track entry ticket
- Vesuvius half-day afternoon trip
- Herculaneum half-day trip
- Herculaneum half day with lunch
- Private driver for archaeological sites
Word of warning: it gets very hot in Naples and there is no shelter at any of these sites. Make sure you take a foldable sun hat like this one, a decent sunscreen and plenty of water (a silicone bottle is best).
Once you are back from Pompeii/Herculaneum/Vesuvius, the rest of your itinerary can be done on foot. Your tour will probably drop you off in the City Centre (or you can ask for Piazza Plebiscito).
Lunchtime: Hit the Pizzerias
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so it is almost mandatory to try as many variations as possible. You could find a pizza place near your excursion to Pompeii/Vesuvius/Herculaneum, or you could head back to the City Centre to try out the most famous pizzerias in Naples.
If you want takeout, two great options are Pizzeria Da Michele (Via Cesare Sersale 1) or Pizza al Taglio Gino Sorbillo (Via dei Tribunali, 32). Both will have very long queues outside. They operate a system where you give your name at the door and then they call you when your order is ready.
Afternoon: Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground)
The city of Naples was established centuries before Rome, and is rooted in Magna Grecia history. You can take a guided tour with Napoli Sotterranea to explore the remains of the ancient city underneath Naples. There are ancient cisterns still gushing with water, to Roman theatres and WWII bomb shelters. This is an incredible experience and not to be missed.
You can purchase tickets to Naples Underground here. It’s best to visit on a weekday if possible, because weekends tend to be very crowded with tourists.
Late afternoon: See Castel dell’Ovo
Castel dell Ovo, or the Castle of the Egg, is located along Naples’ waterfront. It’s a 15 minute walk from Piazza Plebiscito, if you fancy it, and then you’ll be heading back into the centre again.
It was built in 1448 by King Alfonso I of Aragon as a fortification against attacks by pirates. It was once used as a prison for political prisoners but now serves as one of Naples’ most popular tourist attractions. The highlight here is inside its walls: Michelangelo’s famous La Colonna Infame (‘The Infamous Column’).
Inside, there are several rooms and courtyards that house paintings by artists such as Caravaggio and Tintoretto. The most famous room is called ‘La Camera di Pulcinella’. It has murals depicting scenes from Neapolitan folklore, painted by Gennaro Ruozzo between 1683-1685. Tourists often come here to take pictures because they’re so colourful! Tour tickets here.
Evening: Dinner in Chiaia
To wrap up your second day in Naples, consider exploring the Chaia neighbourhood. It’s a particularly affluent neighbourhood in Naples that features an eccentric variety of shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants. I recommend trying some of the seafood available here, as it’s some of the most delicious in the region.
After Dinner: Comunale Park
For dessert, why not treat yourself to a traditional Italian gelato whilst strolling through the Villa Comunale park? It’s a leafy public park built by King Ferdinand IV in the 1780s. There is an art nouveau bandstand and some lovely gardens to stroll in.
End of your itinerary for 2 Days in Naples
Sadly you have come to the end of your 2 days in Naples!
You could easily extend this to a three day trip if you have more time. If you want to make a substitute, or you have more time, I recommend visiting the Museo Cappella Sansevero. There you can see Giuseppe Sanmartino’s iconic Veiled Christ sculpture. Created in 1753, the sculpture is so lifelike that people thought the artist had used alchemy to create it.
If you have already seen some of the main sights, you might like to have a look at unusual (some might say weird!) things to do in Naples.
There are many other things to do in Naples. Popular options include visiting the Royal Palace, Castel Sant Elmo, Santa Chiara or Gesù Nuovo churches. Take a look at my other Naples posts for more inspiration:
- Related Reading
- Where to Stay in Naples Italy: 8 Best Neighbourhoods
- 15 Great Things to do in Naples, Italy
- 24 Unique & Unusual Things to do in Naples, Italy
- Ultimate travel guide for Naples, Italy.
In Naples you are also close to the Italian towns of Sorrento, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast.
Your 2 Days in Naples Recap
Here is a summary in brief of your 2 days in Naples:
Day 1:
- Piazza del Plebiscito
- Galleria Umberto
- Naples National Architecture Museum
- Spaccanapoli
- Via Toledo / Via San Gregorio Armeno
- Naples Cathedral
- Via Tribunali
- Naples old town or Piazza Bellini
Day 2:
Map showing full Itinerary for 2 Days in Naples
The map below shows everything in this itinerary all in one place.
Where to Stay In Naples Italy
First, check my Naples travel guide to the best neigbourhoods in Naples before deciding where to stay.
Here are my overall top picks for Naples hotels on Booking.com:
- Best luxury hotel: Romeo Hotel is a 5 star hotel with rooftop and spa, opposite the ferry port.
- Best mid-range hotel: Toledo Boutique Rooms in the Spaccanapoli district, central location.
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Alloggio Del Conte in the historic centre and close to the train station.
- Best Sustainable hotel: Duomo 152 Naples in the historic centre. This property has met the Travel Sustainable Level 2 criteria from Booking.com, read more here.
Here is a map showing hotels in Naples by location:
Booking.comIf you prefer, you can check the current best Naples stays on Booking.com here. I recommend reserving your room immediately to get the best price. It’s usually free to reserve, and you can always cancel later on.
FAQs About Naples Italy
Q: What is Naples Italy best known for?
A: Naples is renowned for its pizza, and the ultimate representation of it has to be the classic Margherita. Crafted in honour of Queen Margherita by Raffaele Esposito, this much-loved dish has come to signify not only Naples but also all of Italy.
Naples is also known for being uniquely beautiful in a gritty, chaotic way.
Q: Is 2 days enough time in Naples?
A: You would be better off with three days, but you can squeeze the main sights into two days, as I have suggested above. If you’re an art and history enthusiast visiting Naples for the first time, I recommend extending your stay if possible. But if not, 2 days in Naples will be fine.
Q: Is Naples a walkable city?
A: Yes – you can do most of the main attractions in Naples on foot, especially if you stay in the historic downtown area. There is also a metro system.
Q: Can I visit Pompeii in a 2-day Naples itinerary?
A: While it’s possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from Naples, it would be quite tight to include it in a 2-day itinerary without sacrificing other key attractions. Consider extending your stay or prioritising specific sites based on your interests.
Q: How do I get around Naples during this itinerary?
A: Naples has a well-connected public transportation system. You can use the metro, buses, trams, and funiculars to get around the city. Consider purchasing a travel pass for convenience.
Q: What should I try for breakfast in Naples?
A: Start your day with a typical Neapolitan breakfast: a sfogliatella pastry and an espresso. Sfogliatella is a delicious shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta or custard.
Further reading: Food from Naples: all the best foods, and where to eat them.
Q: Are there any must-try restaurants in Naples?
A: Absolutely! For pizza, try L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, famous for its classic Margherita pizza. For seafood, Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare offers a fantastic selection.
Q: Are there any art galleries or museums to visit?
A: Yes, the Naples National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for its extensive collection of Roman and Greek artefacts. You can also explore contemporary art at the Madre Museum.
Q: How do I get to Capri for a day trip?
A: To get to Capri, take a ferry from Naples’ Port of Beverello or Mergellina. The ferry ride takes about 40 minutes to an hour, and you can choose between different ferry companies and departure times. You can read more in Naplesday trips post below.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to the Best 10 Day trips from Naples, Italy.
Q: Is it possible to modify this itinerary for a family trip?
A: Absolutely, this itinerary can be adapted for a family trip. Consider including family-friendly attractions like the Naples Aquarium and the zoological park in the Capodimonte Park.
Q: Are there any local markets to explore?
A: Yes, the Mercato di Porta Nolana is a bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local products. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant local culture.
Q: What is the best way to enjoy the sunset in Naples?
A: For a memorable sunset experience, head to Castel dell’Ovo or the Vomero neighbourhood for panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the sunset over the horizon.
Further reading: Where to stay in Naples: 8 neighbourhoods reviewed.
Q: Can I visit the Amalfi Coast on a 2-day trip to Naples?
A: The Amalfi Coast is a bit far for a day trip from Naples. It’s recommended to dedicate a separate day or two to fully enjoy the beauty of the Amalfi Coast without rushing.
Q: How to get from Naples to Amalfi?
A: To get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples, take a train ride to Sorrento and then board a SITA Bus which will stop at all of the major coastal towns like Positano, Praiano, and Amalfi. It’s a stress-free way to travel and is very straightforward. The bus station is right outside the train station in Sorrento. You can also book a tour from Naples and day trips to Amalfi here.
Further reading: Planned road trip itinerary for the Amalfi Coast, Italy.
Further reading: Ultimate Guide to the Best 10 Day trips from Naples, Italy.
Travel Advice for your Trip to Naples
I have published a complete travel guide to Naples which contains information on transport, weather, food and drink, where to stay, trips and tours, festivals in Naples and more.
Further reading: Naples Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting Napoli, Italy.
Climate: Naples has a temperate Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, mild and wet winters, and abundant sunshine throughout most of the year. Summers tend to be very warm and humid with temperatures averaging in the mid-to-high 80s Fahrenheit (30°C).
Getting Around: I don’t recommend driving in Naples, as the traffic is crazy and the parking rules are very difficult to understand. However if you really need to rent a car, try a rental comparison site like Discover Cars.
Money: The currency in Naples is the Euro (€).
Below are some helpful links for your trip:
Here are some quick Naples links:
- Naples is a busy city. I recommend an anti-theft backpack.
- Protect your cards with an RFID blocking wallet.
- When in Naples, you must do a food tour with the best pizza.
- Book your Private Naples Walking Tour here.
- Here are the best deals on all Naples hotels.
- This is the best luxury hotel in Naples.
- This is the best day trip from Naples.
- Book your Naples rental car here.
Related Reading for 2 Days in Naples, Italy.
Here are some more of my Naples travel guides which may interest you.
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