Welcome to the vibrant and captivating city of Naples, where history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine come together to create an unforgettable experience during this 1 day in Naples Italy itinerary.
Situated in the heart of Italy’s Campania region, Naples is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and amazing traditions that will leave you spellbound during your 24 hours in Naples.
Sure, it may seem a bit rough around the edges (aka I DEFFO heard gunshots when I was here for New Year’s one year) when compared to northern siblings like Florence and Milan.
But, don’t let that deter you. I loved wandering through these quaint streets and seeing all the nonnas hanging up their laundry when I spent one day in Naples.
I have since been back many times and can never resist spending some time in this enchanting city.
So, if you’re game for some adventure then this metropolis will surprise you in ways that you never expected during your Naples 1 day itinerary.
Yes, many people fly through Naples on their way to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast, spending a night or two without ever really experiencing the city.
But, that’s like eating a pizza without the cheese – you’re missing out on all the good stuff!
From being a major player on the European stage for over a thousand years to enduring the most intense WWII bombings in Italy, Naples has lots of stories to tell.
So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable day in Naples Italy then get ready to walk through historic castles, marvel at waterfront views, explore abandoned catacombs, and, indulge in classic Napoli pizza.
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Best Places to Stay in Naples, Italy
Seeing as you only have 1 day in Naples Italy, having a centrally located hotel is a must. Here’s exactly where to stay in Naples if you want to quickly and easily enjoy the top landmarks in Naples.
- Hotel Il Convento (budget) – This well-priced hotel has a mint location in the historic center. It’s also in an atmospheric old building with a homey vibe. Most rooms come with a balcony and a KILLER breakfast too.
- Relais Della Porta (mid-range) – Sleeping in Relais Della Porta is like sleeping in a palazzo. Well, it used to be one so the fancier rooms are adorned with frescoes that look like something from the Sistine Chapel. There are also lots of historic details in standard rooms and communal areas too.
- Grand Hotel Vesuvio (luxury) – The 5-star Grand Hotel Vesuvio is located on the Lungomare and Features views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius. It has all the trimmings of a luxury hotel including a pool and rooftop bar.
Tips for Visiting Naples in 1 Day
I’ve been to Naples many, many times. So, I want to share all of my secret insider tips with you. This way you can enjoy your one day in Naples, Italy, itinerary like a local, not a tourist.
- Napoli is a shock to the senses. It’s far more chaotic than Rome, but that’s where its charm comes from. Go with an open mind and you’re sure to be captivated.
- Naples is quietest in the morning but the tiny streets fill up with people by lunchtime. Start as early as you can because with 24 hours in Naples, the early bird gets the sfogliatella (see what I did there?).
- Note that museums in Naples may be closed on certain days of the week (usually Tuesday/Wednesday). So, always check the latest times on Google Maps and official websites before you visit.
- Churches tend not to be open all day long. They usually close for a few hours in the middle of the day and then open up again later.
- Pickpockets tend to hang around the busiest parts of the city. So, when enjoying all of the best things to do in Naples, keep an eye on your valuables.
- On the whole, Naples is walkable. Stick to this day in Naples itinerary and public transportation can be avoided as much as possible.
- If you are spending more than one day in Naples, you might want to buy the City Pass Ticket. It gets you into a bunch of attractions on this itinerary and includes three days of public transportation.
- 1 day in Naples is not enough to visit the historic center and Pompeii. You’ll need a second in order to take a day trip to Pompeii.
How to Get Around Naples, Italy, in One Day
Firstly, this 1 day in Naples itinerary is basically me retracing my footsteps from numerous trips. So, you can totally handle the route yourself if you follow the steps.
Like many European cities, Naples is rad due to its walkability. I mean, it’s a huge city but fortunately, the key sights are central enough that they can be visited on foot.
However, if you need to go further afield, Naples has a metro and bus service. Just download Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate the city.
Additionally, Uber works in Naples. However, you’ll find the European taxi-hailing app, Free Now, is far more reliable. And SIXT works by connecting you with local taxi companies in Naples.
Basically, download all three, and you’ll be more than covered during your 24 hours in Naples, Italy. Yeah, I actually don’t think I used a motorized vehicle once the last time I was in Naples.
But it was a lot my like 6th time there so I was just kind of chillin’.
Anyway, getting around via Naples walking tours is a cool way to gain additional insight into the history and culture of Naples. Plus, they are basically designed for travelers who only have a day in Naples Italy.
In fact, this Downtown Naples tour and Veiled Christ entry will help you maximize your time in the city since you’ll see tons of top Naples attractions in a short amount of time.
1 Day in Naples Italy, Itinerary
Start Your day in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo
You’ll start your one day in Naples itinerary in one of the prettiest public squares in Italy.
See, Piazza del Gesù Nuovo – which means New Jesus – is right in the heart of the Centro Storicio, or the historic center of Naples. In fact, it’s home to two of the city’s most iconic churches.
See, Gesù Nuovo Church (Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo) is easy to overlook. It’s a Jesuit church with an exterior made out of pyramids that were typical of the Venetian Renaissance.
However, they were very uncommon in the south and that’s what makes this place so unique.
In contrast, the interiors are heavily ornamented with frescoes galore and a grandiose main altar.
It’s free to visit and you’d be mad to miss the chance to go inside.
Local Tip: Gesù Nuovo is one of the churches that closes in the afternoon. Arrive around 9:00 am to avoid disappointment.
Amount of Time Needed: 20 minutes
Swing by the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara
Hold your horses. Before leaving Gesù Nuovo, you should swing by the Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara (Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara).
This includes a Gothic church and monastery plus a cloistered garden. It’s massive, so basically like a mini citadel in the heart of Naples.
But, really, the garden is the star of the show. I took a ton of photos here and marveled at the colorful tiled columns and fragrant trees.
Note, it’s free to visit the church but the monastery has a small fee. And, I’d say this is one of the best Naples landmarks that is worth spending a few extra euros on.
Yeah, it’s so peaceful and calming. Plus, it’s like the ONLY place with a garden landscaped in such a way.
It’s popular so make sure you’re here when it opens at 9:30 am on the dot (or 10:00 am on Sundays).
Amount of Time Needed: About an hour
Walk Down Spaccanapoli
So, you may experience a bit of a culture shock after the serenity of the monastery.
But, Spaccanapoli is a collection of several famous streets that cut right through the historic center of the city. In fact, the name literally means “Naples splitter.”
Furthermore, it runs through the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo so you’re basically on the road already.
Now, following Spaccanapoli eastwards brings you to one of the most energetic regions of Naples.
Spaccanapoli and the side streets that branch off either side are lined with gift stores, pizza places, tiny museums, and street art aplenty.
If you’re a soccer fan, this is where you’ll find Maradona murals and tributes. You could even sign up for a dedicated Maradona walking tour in Naples.
This isn’t so feasible with only 1 day in Naples but you could always scratch a couple of traditional sights off your Naples bucket list.
Pro Tip: Stop by again in the evening and this amazing place in Naples will have a TOTALLY different feel to it.
Amount of Time Needed: 15 minutes
Buy Christmas Items on Via San Gregorio Armeno
As part of your wanderings around Spaccanapoli, don’t forget to check out Via San Gregorio Armeno during your one day in Naples Italy itinerary.
This street is dedicated to the sales of “presepe” which are handcrafted nativity scenes that have been produced in Naples for centuries.
In fact, you’ll spot them in various churches during the course of your one day in Naples.
Here, you can buy nativity sets, figurines, and even the materials that you can use to makie your very own nativity scene (yeah, now you’re fancy like Martha Stewart).
Plus, Christmas Street is a year-round thing in Naples. Although, the stalls are busier and buzzier (okay, crowded) closer to Christmas.
Pro Tip: Seeing as I’ve been to Naples countless times in all the seasons, I’ve noticed that prices fluctuate. So, summer and November/December mean a spike in prices.
As such, plan to do your Christmas shopping in January or the shoulder season for the best deals. But don’t miss the awesome festive vibes closer to the holiday.
Amount of Time Needed: 15 minutes
See the Veiled Christ at Sansevero Chapel Museum
Now, let’s move over to one of the most unique things to do with one day in Naples.
Tiny but mighty, the Sansevero Chapel Museum (Museo Cappella Sansevero) houses a collection of some of the finest sculptures in the world.
Among these, you’ll see the Veiled Christ, completed by the Rococo-era Neapolitan sculptor Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753.
In a nutshell, this is a life-sized marble statue of Jesus Christ covered in a shroud. Both are carved from the same block as the statue and are truly awesome to behold.
Seriously, if you only see one thing in Naples let this be it. I PROMISE you will not be disappointed.
Sure, the museum is a bit small. But the artwork here is so incredible that you could easily spend an hour marveling at all the sculptures.
However, around half an hour ought to do it. Plus. pre-booking a ticket is essential since this place is mega popular and the museum is itty bitty. So, a small museum + hordes of people = long lines.
To be honest, it would make sense to join a tour that includes a stop here. In fact, this Downtown Naples walking tour covers all the sites listed thus far.
Yeah, this tour will drop you off at Sansevero Chapel Museum. Admission is included and your guide will give you the lowdown on ALL the sculptures (HOORAY!!!)
Pro Tip: Again, BOOK YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE. I made the mistake of not getting tickets in advance and waited hours in line. But, it was worth it.
This place is also closed on Tuesdays so stop by on any other day of the week.
Amount of Time Needed: 30 minutes
Ogle the Cathedral of Naples
I mean, what’s a European city trip without seeing an epic cathedral? Besides, Naples Cathedral is a major landmark to tick off your 1 day in Naples, Italy itinerary.
But, this church also goes by the name Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta or the Duomo di Napoli.
And, it contains several chapels. Among which, the chapel dedicated to Saint Januarius (or, San Gennaro – the patron saint of Naples) is the most important.
See, it contains a vial of the blood that belonged to Saint Januarius. This is brought out three times a year on the first Saturday in May, the 19th of September, and the 16th of December.
The ritual dictates that the blood should liquefy. If it fails to do so, legend says that disaster will befall Naples.
It’s also free to visit the main cathedral nave but separate charges apply to the chapels and crypts.
Amount of Time Needed: 30 minutes
Stop for Lunch in Naples
By now, you should be feeling a wee bit peckish, if not famished.
Therefore, it’s time to hit up Trattoria Don Vincenzo. It is a laid-back, authentic Neapolitan restaurant specializing in seafood.
Usually, they have a lunchtime special for around €35 ($27). However, if you just want a single dish then order the signature pasta fresca Don Vincenzo.
It’s made of fresh pasta that is tossed with prawns in a creamy, smoky, cheesy sauce. So…flipping…good.
Yeah, I was introduced to this place while enjoying one of the best food tours in Naples and have been coming back ever since.
Anyway, this gorgeous dish is filling and nourishing, but without being overly heavy. But, if you eat elsewhere, avoid pizza. That’s on this one day in Naples Italy itinerary for dinner.
Pro-Tip: If you’re spending more than 1 day in Naples, Italy, you should totally go on a food tour. See, Neapolitan cuisine is like nothing you’ve ever tasted before.
Because traditional cooking revolves around simple recipes using seasonal ingredients with strong tastes. The Neapolitan ragù is world-class (and you can find veggie versions).
But, you can learn all about this (and way more) during this incredible street food tour with a local.
Roam Subterranean Naples at the Catacombs of San Gennaro
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (3836 Reviews) Price: $12.04 per person Duration: 45 hours 📍Meeting Point: Meet at the Catacombs of San Gennaro Operator: Catacombs di Napoli Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
After lunch, we’re heading underground – to the catacombs of Naples. FYI, the city does have several possible catacombs to choose from.
From my experience, the Catacombs of San Gennaro are the most interesting.
Yes, they are a little bit outside of the city center (10-minute drive, 20-minute walk) but it’s totally worth it to do the guided tour and see some epic mosaics.
This attraction is an engaging and enlightening look into burial rituals as well as the life and death of the patron saint of Naples.
See, it’s spread over underground basilicas and frescos that date back more than 1,000 years.
“Great tour, if was informative and detailed about the history and the art in the Catacombs. You get entrance to both Catacombs in the city with the 1 ticket price. They are vastly different and are worth going to both. Valentina was an excellent tour guide and has an art degree which added to her value as a guide.”
Mike (read more reviews now)
Here, a guide is mandatory. That’s partly for safety (this isn’t a place you’ll want to get lost) but also for understanding the heritage of this amazing place during a day in Naples Italy.
And, if you buy this guided tour of the Catacombs of San Gennaro they also throw in admission to the Catacombs of San Gaudioso.
These are slightly closer to the centro storico and you’ll have a whole 12 months to visit.
Buses (including routes 204, 168, and C63) run from the Galleria Principe di Napoli and stop right outside. Or, there’s always Uber/Free Now/SIXT.
Amount of Time Needed: 45 minutes
Browse Masterpieces at the Capodimonte Palace and Museum
⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (54 Reviews) Price: $23.87 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Ticket Office Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
FYI, if you do end up visiting the San Gennaro Catacombs, I recommend a sneaky side trip to Capodimonte Palace and Museum.
This is a gorgeous hilltop estate comprising of a Bourbon palazzo and an awesome art gallery.
Works by Caravaggio, Warhol, Titian, Borgia, and Carracci form the basis of the collection.
“The paintings were amazing. It took us over two hours to go through just the second floor. The grounds were beautiful and the cafe had nice lunch options. Well worth the money. I highly recommend.”
Rachel (read more reviews now)
Plus, it was used as a hunting lodge, so the grounds are awesome to walk through too.
But, it’s a sizable place to visit. Therefore, you’ll need to consider sacrificing other attractions on this itinerary if you want to stop by during your 24 hours in Naples Italy.
If you do go, avoid waiting in line and pre-book your admission to Capodimonte Palace and Museum.
Amount of Time Needed: Between 1 and 2 hours
Catacombs Option B: Visit Naples Underground
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (7563 Reviews) Price: $16.42 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies Operator: Naples Underground SRL Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now
Here’s an alternative if you’re itching to see what lies beneath Naples but the other catacombs aren’t feasible as part of your one day in Naples Italy itinerary.
Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea) is located in the heart of the historic center near Spaccanapoli.
Actually, this is basically an underground city (funny, that) and comprises of streets and plazas that sit below ground.
“Really interesting visit. Francesco, our guide, very nice and talented. He told us the whole story with that touch of folklore that makes tours with a local guide truly priceless.”
Martina (read more reviews now)
The exhibition includes the chance to see a Greek-Roman Aqueduct, the remains of a Roman theater, and its accompanying Summa Cavea.
This is one of the most popular things to do in Naples and tour groups are restricted for safety. Therefore, advance booking for Naples Underground is essential.
Having visited all the underground attractions, I’d say that the catacombs are more pleasant to visit as they’re less crowded. But, Naples Underground earns brownie points for its central location.
Also, it’s billed as being kid-friendly but you might want to refrain from taking nervous or claustrophobic little ones down these tunnels.
Amount of Time Needed: 2 hours
Castel Sant’Elmo
⭐️ Rating: 3.8/5.0 (51 Reviews) Price: $8.98 per person Duration: 1 day📍Meeting Point: Castel Sant’Elmo, Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Now, if you did visit the catacombs and hunting lodge, you’ll want to hail an Uber/Free Now/SIXT to drop you at the Montesanto funicular station.
Otherwise, you can walk from Naples Underground in around 15 minutes.
Once there, you’ll ride the funicular to Castel Sant’Elmo. This 14th-century fortress sits on Vomero Hill and grants visitors some of the best views in Naples.
These stretch out over the city towards the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Note that an admission fee does apply. So, it’s faster to buy a ticket in advance online.
Then, you can wander around the museum, the church, and the terrace at leisure.
Naturally, this is a cool place to catch the sunset. Realistically, you might make it if your 1 day in Naples is during the winter.
“Magnificent citadel to discover at the start of your stay to discover the city, the bay and, in the distance, Vesuvius.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
If not, don’t stress about trying to get there for the golden hour. Having visited in daylight and sunset, I can confirm that the views will blow your mind either way.
Plus, I have to agree the castle does take a bit of effort due to its location. But, the views really don’t compare to anywhere else so it’s worth the trek.
Amount of Time Needed: You’ll need around 20 minutes to get here and there maybe another hour to explore the castle itself.
Explore Via Toledo and the Spanish Quarter
After riding the funicular down to Augusteo station (consider walking down the stairs if you’re doing okay for time), you’ll head south to the Spanish Quarter.
Also known as Quartieri Spagnoli in Italian, it’s everyone’s favorite place during their 24 hours in Naples.
It’s bounded by Via Toledo, a major retail thoroughfare that’s predominantly pedestrianized. Almost a mile long, it’s one of the most beautiful streets in the city.
Plus, it’s a cool place to stockpile gifts and souvenirs while grazing on street food.
Moving onto the main part of the Quartieri Spagnoli, this is another prime stomping ground for Maradona fans. There are scores of murals concentrated in the western end of the neighborhood.
Maradona lover or not, I can guarantee that being jostled around the Spanish Quarter will be a highlight of your 1 day in Naples Italy itinerary.
By the time you arrive, it should be filled with locals and tourists and have a good-natured energy about it.
Amount of Time Needed: 30 minutes
Window Shop at Galleria Umberto I
Need to pick up even more souvenirs to commemorate your 1 day in Naples Italy itinerary? Well, after Via Toledo, Galleria Umberto I is the best place to throw your Euros around.
It contains a mix of posh boutiques, mid-range/designer stores, and places to eat. Yeah, it’s not all Gucci and Versace here so don’t let the posh interior dissuade you from stepping inside.
I loved walking around this magical shopping arcade even though I didn’t buy a damn thing.
I mean, this 19th-century covered shopping arcade is a vision of marble flooring, classical columns, and sculpted facades.
At the very least, it’ll take you less than five minutes to glide through the gallery.
If you’ve already been on a Milan walking tour and it looks familiar, you’re onto something. Confusingly, Galleria Umberto “I” was modeled on the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele “II” in the Italian fashion capital.
FYI, you can also stop for a coffee in the shopping arcade. But, if you’re asking me, there are better places to sip an espresso in Naples.
Although, you can’t match the sweet, sweet vibes that can be found inside Galleria Umberto I.
Amount of Time Needed: 20 minutes
Admire Castel Nuovo
Wedged between the Port of Naples and the Spanish Quarter, Castel Nuovo is a mighty medieval fortress. FYI, it’s also known as Maschio Angioino.
Its foundations date way back to 1279 and it was used as a base for kings of Naples, Aragon, and Spain until 1815.
Therefore, the exhibition is pivotal in explaining the conquering of Naples by the Spanish Empire following the end of French rule.
Now, Castel Nuovo is cheap to visit and is worth the ticket purely for the views from the walkways.
Plus, it’s nigh impenetrable. So, standing inside the quad will make you understand the phrase, as safe as houses. Well, royal palace residences, at least.
Although, even if you don’t enter the complex it’s worthwhile to just see the exterior during your 24 hours in Naples Italy itinerary.
But, if you are fascinated by European regal history and are fortunate to spend longer than 1 day in Naples Italy, there is a tour with your name on it.
This walking tour of Royal Naples hones in on the Kingdom of Naples. In addition to Maschio Angioino and the Castel dell’Ovo. We’re getting to it!
Amount of Time Needed: 15 minutes to admire the exterior and 45 minutes to look inside
Enjoy Piazza del Plebiscito
Close to the Lungomare, Piazza del Plebiscito is a whopping big public square with tons of photo-worthy landmarks.
Actually, this is where you’ll find the San Francesco di Paola Church (Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola).
Yeah, it looks exactly like the Pantheon of Rome (great to see during a Rome night tour) and is free to visit.
You’ll also see the Palazzo Salerno with its handsome neoclassical facade. Seeing as this is used by the Italian Army, it’s off-limits. There are various other buildings to admire from the ground.
Local Tip: Visit Naples over the holidays and you’ll see the Christmas tree which is amazing.
Amount of Time Needed: 20 minutes
Visit the Royal Palace of Naples
⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5.0 (147 Reviews) Price: $17.73 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Royal Palace of Naples Operator: GetYourGuide Tours & Tickets GmbH Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Well, it would be rude not to swing by the Royal Palace for a cappuccino with the King of Italy when planning a one day in Naples Italy itinerary.
Just kidding, Italy doesn’t have a royal family. But, the Palazzo Reale di Napoli is located in the Piazza del Plebiscito.
While it took a bashing during the war, this 17th-century residence has been restored to its former glory.
Since the monarchy dissolved in 1946, the palace is now purely a museum.
“A beautiful palace, it also seems to me to be excellently maintained, the museum dedicated to Caruso is fascinating, a gem for an enthusiast like me.”
Daniele (read more reviews now)
Exhibitions focus on the heritage of the Bourbon Rulers (the France-originated dynasty, not the spirit).
Plus, there are scrolls excavated from Herculaneum and a stunning nativity scene in the Royal Chapel.
Seeing as the palace is popular, you’ll want to pre-book an admission ticket. Allow an hour to complete the self-guided exploration and remember that it’s closed on Wednesdays.
Amount of Time Needed: Around an hour
Stroll Along the Naples Lungomare
Alright, one final push on this uber-ambitious 1 day in Naples, Italy itinerary. Because the prettiest part of the Naples waterfront is located to the south of Piazza del Plebiscito.
Honestly, just walk along as much of the Lungomare as possible. It’s a scenic spot to clear your head and decompress after a jam-packed 24 hours in Naples Italy.
Generally, Naples locals head to the waterfront in the early evening for a pre-sunset stroll.
And that makes sense since the views stretch across the Gulf of Naples towards Ischia and Vesuvius. Plus, you’ll spot Ovo Castle (Castel dell’Ovo) on the bay.
FYI, it’s even possible to visit the castle. However, the last admission is at 4:00 pm which doesn’t work with this one day in Naples itinerary.
To be frank, it’s way better to view the castle from the Lungomare anyway.
Amount of Time Needed: 30 minutes. It just depends on how much you like walking.
Eat Neapolitan Pizza in Naples
Finally, it’s time to tackle one of the best thing to do in Naples above all else -dive into Neapolitan pizza.
See, Naples is the birthplace of pizza and they do things differently down here. The wood-fired pizza is made exclusively from Campania-grown tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese.
Furthermore, a drizzle of olive oil and a dash of fresh basil is all that’s allowed on top.
But where to find this mythical Naples-style pizza? Anyway! You’ve got tons of places to choose from since most restaurants in Naples are high caliber.
Although, after chomping my way through many a slice of Neapolitan pizza over the years, I can testify that Gino e Toto Sorbillo is beyond amazing and well worth a visit.
Personally, I think it’s way better than L’antica Pizzeria da Michele. Yes, everyone RAVES about this place, and I did wait over two hours in line for a personal pizza.
Sadly, you can’t reserve a table and have to grab a ticket upon arrival and wait for a table inside the informal dining room.
Anyway, when I visited the bottom was burnt and the place was packed and it just wasn’t the experience I wanted.
However, I am still mentioning this pizzeria in Naples because everyone LOVES it and maybe I just visited on an off day and was unlucky.
Amount of Time Needed: L’antica Pizzeria da Michele is ALWAYS packed and wait times are usually at least two hours. So, don’t show up hungry.
Spending More than 1 Day in Naples Italy?
Have extra time in Naples? Lucky you because you can take a day trip to Pompeii.
Pro-Tip: There are hundreds of tours to wade through but they can be hit and miss in terms of service. Therefore, I’ve cherry-picked the best Naples to Pompeii tours.
However, it is pretty quick and easy to get to Pompeii via train. Just pre-book your tickets to Pompeii and you can DEFFO visit on your own.
That being said, tours are great if you’re in a hurry and want to see more than one place in a single day.
So, if you want a day tour then book this all-inclusive full-day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius tour. It includes everything!
It even offers round-trip transfers from Naples and spares you the hassle of changing platforms when on the train.
Plus, you bag skip-the-line admission to Pompeii. Honestly, I lost hours of valuable vacation time (like, hours) the first time I visited the complex because I forgot to book my tickets in advance.
Note, Pompeii is huge, colossally huge. It’s easy to get lost or walk right past some of the coolest remains (another rookie error I put my hand up to making).
But, this epic tour also includes a guided walk around the archaeological site with commentary.
That way, you actually get to learn about the heritage of the buried city and learn about the cultural significance of the world’s greatest time capsule.
And then, back to your hotel for a shower and a cup of coffee.
No. This tour won’t let you go until you’ve summited the volcano. Now, visiting Vesuvius is one of the most incredible things you can do in Italy.
However, trying to cram both sites into one day via public transport is crazy stressful (again, been there, done that, got the t-shirt).
Rest assured, the hike isn’t so challenging – it’s just a short, steep burst. Kids can do it and you don’t need to be Lara Croft fit to do it.
Although, another option is to enjoy one of the best tours of the Amalfi Coast from Naples if history really isn’t your thing.
Map of this 1 day in Naples Italy Itinerary
1 day in Naples Italy Itinerary FAQs
Can you do Naples in 1 day?
No, you really can’t see all of Naples in 1 day. However, with a well-planned itinerary, you can enjoy some top Naples attractions with only a day in the city.
Plus, it helps that the city is a super walkable city and that all of the best things to do in Naples, Italy are well-located near one another.
Is Naples Worth a Day Trip?
Yes, Naples is worth a day trip. After all, Naples is home to Europe’s largest historic center and is filled with a labyrinth of narrow streets that tell the tales of bygone eras.
As you wander through these winding pathways, you’ll discover stunning churches, imposing monuments, grand palaces, and more.
How Can I Spend 24 hours in Naples?
Here is an overview of how you can spend 24 hours in Naples Italy:
- Piazza del Gesù Nuovo
- Monumental Complex of Santa Chiara
- Spaccanapoli
- Via San Gregorio Armeno
- Sansevero Chapel Museum
- Cathedral of Naples
- Trattoria Don Vincenzo
- Catacombs of San Gennaro
- Capodimonte Palace and Museum
- Castel Sant’Elmo
- Via Toledo and the Spanish Quarter
- Galleria Umberto I
- Castel Nuovo
- Piazza del Plebiscito
- Royal Palace of Naples
- Lungomare
- L’antica Pizzeria da Michele
Can I do Naples and Pompeii in One Day?
No, you cannot do Naples and Pompeii in one day. Pompeii is huge so I would dedicate a full day to exploring the ruins and visiting Mount Vesuvius.
You’ll then need another day in Naples Italy to enjoy all of the incredible things to do there.
That concludes this guide to 1 day in Naples Italy.
Did your fave things to do make it one this guide to 24 hours in Naples Italy? If not then let me know.
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