2 Days in Naples: A Complete Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
What To Do In Naples In 2 Days
Two days in Naples is enough time to fall in love with the city and get thoroughly confused by it in equal measure.
Wondering what to actually see and what you can skip without guilt is the right question to ask before you land. Most guides won’t tell you straight. I will.
I’ll be honest, Naples doesn’t hold your hand. It’s more like a well-used moped than a polished tour bus, a bit chaotic on the surface, but somehow it gets you where you need to go. I spent four nights there, and by the end I’d worked out which sights earn their place on a tight itinerary and which ones are only there for the postcards.
The taxi story still makes me laugh. We were lost somewhere near the old town, and the driver just stopped in the middle of the street and shouted up at a man on his balcony for directions. Not a polite call either. Genuinely loud enough that I think the whole street heard it. A person could shout like that in Naples, and nobody batted an eyelid.
That’s when I knew this city plays by its own rules.
Whether you’re travelling as a couple or on your own, this itinerary is built for people who want to see the best of Naples without wasting a single one of their two days, including where to base yourself and which spots are honestly worth the hype.
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No time to read? Here are my favourite hotels in Naples, Italy
🏨 Royal Gismonda – click here to take a look
🏨 Ideal City Walk – click here to take a look
🏨 Schilizzi Hotel – click here to take a look
Day 1
Start your day by exploring the historic centre of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit:
Morning: Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Naples Cathedral)
I went in with low expectations, and I left wanting to come back.
The architecture and design are impressive, and something caught my eye no matter where I looked.
Walking inside, I fell in love with all the artwork and rich history surrounding me. Nothing was boring.
The altar had a bishop mannequin, which freaked me out a little, but it didn’t take away from the beauty of the whole place. Bronze statues and red and yellow colours are found all over the cathedral. There is a large archway door with a statue that really popped out at me.
Do not miss the crypt of San Gennaro and the large dome, which were my favourite parts.
San Gennaro was martyred during the Diocletianic Persecution around 305 AD.
It is said that Eusebia, a local woman, collected his blood and put it in two glass ampoules. Every year, many people come to Naples to witness the alleged liquefaction of the dried blood of San Gennaro.
- Cost: Free
- Opening Hours: 08.30 AM – 07.30 PM
- Suggested Duration: 1 hour
- Address: Via Duomo, 147, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy
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Afternoon: Naples Underground
The research I did online did not prepare me for this place.
For those who love adventure and history, a visit to Naples Underground needs to be part of your 2-day itinerary.
It is an impressive network of tunnels that served multiple purposes, including efficient storage and reliable air-raid shelters during World War II. It was originally built in the 4th century BC by the Greeks, and I must admit, I got a little claustrophobic during the tour, but I managed to survive.
You need to be prepared for having less mobility in some sections. It can be tight, so just to warn you ahead of time. If claustrophobia is more serious for you, then it may not be the best thing to do.
The underground tunnels and chambers are fascinating, and the tour guide was exceptional at his job.
The cost for a guided tour is €10.00 ($11.39/£8.53) per person, and it was truly wonderful to explore beneath the city of Naples.
Excursions in English run between 10.00 AM and 12.00 PM, 2.00 PM and 4.00 PM and finally 6.00 PM. Unless you are travelling in a group of over ten, you do not need to make a booking.
Just show up and get your tickets or book online in advance.
- Cost: €10.00 ($11.39/£8.53)
- Opening Hours: 10.00 AM – 06.00 PM
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- Address: Piazza San Gaetano, 316, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy
🇮🇹 Book This Naples Underground Entry Ticket And Guided Tour 🇮🇹
Evening: Spaccanapoli (The Historic Street That Cuts Naples In Two)
I wanted to like Spaccanapoli more than I did.
It is a long and narrow street that literally cuts the city in two.
You could easily spend anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day exploring this historic street.
The street was always full of life whenever I passed through. People sat in the streets eating pizza that smelled better than it looked. Hard to do in Italy. The elderly sat with a coffee and watched people go by.
Be careful when you’re here because scooters can fly past you, and they have a bad reputation for causing accidents.
On the positive side, I loved seeing Diego Maradona all over the walls.
Football is as important as religion in Naples, I learned. Start walking from Via San Biagio dei Librai or Via Benedetto Croce and take in as much of the atmosphere as you can. Soon you’ll be talking with your hands to locals.
In the end, it felt too touristy for me, but I still enjoyed the vibe.
- Cost: Free
- Opening Hours: 24 Hours
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
- Address: 80138 Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
🇮🇹 Book This Naples Walking Tour: Old Town and Spaccanapoli 🇮🇹
Day 2
Morning: Piazza del Plebiscito
I didn’t plan for Piazza del Plebiscito to be a highlight, but it was.
This iconic square is one of the largest in Italy and is a symbol of the city.
It is named after the plebiscite of October 21, 1860, which voted for the union of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies with the Kingdom of Sardinia, forming the basis for the unified Kingdom of Italy the following year.
Surrounded by cool architecture, including the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, the square oozes with elegance and history. During my visit, I was very impressed by the stonework and the sheer size of the area.
Despite ongoing Christmas lights preparation, the atmosphere around Piazza del Plebiscito was contagious, even with the Christmas market setup making it look a little messy.
For a long time, it served as a busy public space where people gathered to enjoy themselves and the environment.
It has been the site of various important events throughout Naples’ history.
If you are anything like me and enjoy the architecture of Naples and history, then Piazza del Plebiscito has to be on your 2-day Naples itinerary.
- Cost: Free
- Opening Hours: 24 Hours
- Suggested Duration: 1 Hour
- Address: 80132 Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
🇮🇹 Find The Best Day Trips From Naples 🇮🇹
Afternoon: Castel Nuovo
Learn from my error here and enter the castle, so you don’t make my mistake.
Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is an impressive medieval castle located in Naples.
While I didn’t have the chance to enter the castle during my visit, its exterior alone left a lasting impression on me.
The castle is an obviously powerful construction, and its doors are truly impressive. This castle has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century when it was commissioned by Charles I of Anjou. Over the centuries, it served as a royal residence, a seat of power, and even a prison.
Today, Castel Nuovo stands as a magnificent symbol of Naples’ past. Someday I will return and make it inside.
While exploring the surrounding area, you can also enjoy beautiful views of the Naples harbour and the city skyline.
I didn’t have the opportunity to explore the interior, but the castle houses various museums and art collections that showcase the cultural heritage of Naples.
This was one of my favourite sites in Naples to look at.
- Cost: €6.00 ($6.83/£5.12) per person
- Opening Hours: 09.00 AM – 05.30 PM, closed on Sunday
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
- Address: V. Vittorio Emanuele III, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy
🇮🇹 Going To Northern Italy? Read This Lake Como Guide 🇮🇹
Evening: Castel Sant’Elmo
I would happily skip everything else on this list to come back to Castel Sant’Elmo.
This is a historic fortress located on a hilltop in Naples.
I had the opportunity to visit Castel Sant’Elmo during sunset, and it made it ten times better. The castle dates back to the 14th century and was initially built as a defensive structure. It was constructed between 1329 and 1343 by Robert of Anjou.
Over the centuries, it played a significant role in protecting the city and served as a military fortress.
The castle houses various exhibitions and museums, providing insights into the history, art, and culture of Naples. You can walk up as I did or take the funicular.
Had I known there was one, I would have had more energy to enjoy the views because it was not that easy.
The Funicolare di Montesanto, boarding near Piazzetta Montesanto, runs up to the Morghen terminus in upper Vomero, just a short walk from the castle.
One of the highlights of my visit was the view from the top of the castle. As the sun began to set, the city of Naples changed its colour. Its streets started to illuminate. I stood in silence for a few moments, as did everyone else.
I could even see Mount Vesuvius in the distance, which made it even more special.
- Cost: €5.00 ($5.69/£4.26) full price. Reduced €2.50 ($2.85/£2.13) for eligible visitors (EU citizens 18-25, teachers, etc.)
- Opening Hours: 08.30 AM – 06.30 PM
- Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
- Address: Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy
🇮🇹 Naples Has Many Good Day Trips To Consider 🇮🇹
Where To Stay In Naples For 2 Days
If you only have two days to stay in Naples, it’s essential to choose wisely.
I have a full guide on where to stay in Naples, so check that out, but for those short on time, I suggest Centro Storico and Quartieri Spagnoli.
These locations are central and close to key sites like Underground Naples, Castel Nuovo, Spaccanapoli, and Piazza San Domenico Maggiore; it just makes sense to stay here for two days.
How To Get Around Naples Efficiently
Thanks to Naples’ walkable streets, you can explore most of the city on foot, which is how I got around.
If you’re feeling low on energy, take advantage of Metro Line 1. It’s the busiest line, but for good reason.
If the hills start to wear you down as they did me, take a funicular up and save your energy. There are four in total in the city, and they’re great for reaching the Vomero and Posillipo districts. For Castel Sant’Elmo specifically, the Montesanto funicular is your quickest route up.
Just buy your ticket at the station machines. You can even get them from newspaper stands in the street. Download the Unico Campania app to buy tickets for buses and trams in the city.
It’s straightforward and very handy when you need to move around Naples quickly.
🇮🇹 Consider Visiting The Island Of Procida 🇮🇹
Best Foods to Try in Naples
Naples is said to be the birthplace of pizza.
When I visited, I was blown away by just how good it was.
Margherita with just tomato sauce couldn’t be that good, I thought, and yet it was. My favourite place was 1947 Pizza Fritta Napoli, which had great gluten-free options.
If you like cheese, try the Mozzarella di Bufala for its creamy and tangy flavours. Another go-to was the Spaghetti alle Vongole, clams, olive oil, and garlic that were out of this world.
🇮🇹 Take A Look At The Best Food In Naples 🇮🇹
How To Get To Naples
Naples has an international airport about 5 km from the city centre.
It makes life easy when trying to get there. I recommend you prebook a taxi to take you from the airport because the price is set and no dodgy metres will charge you an arm and a leg.
The driver will hold a sign with your name on it or contact you on WhatsApp, and it’s a smooth process rather than being targeted by many taxi drivers outside waiting for you.
You can also take the train from Rome, Florence, or Milan in the north. Or you can come from the south, Sorrento and Amalfi.
Book train tickets to Naples to plan your trip in advance and avoid unwanted delays.
🇮🇹 Explore The Best Three Days In Rome Itinerary 🇮🇹
Optional Day Trip From Naples
I made a full guide to the best day trips from Naples.
But for me, I would recommend going to Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii.
The history and magnitude of both sites make them special, and to think that Vesuvius covered Pompeii only to be discovered years later links them both together nicely.
Additionally, you could consider day trips to Herculaneum, also covered in ash by Mount Vesuvius, and Positano, a picturesque beachside town on the hills further south of Naples along the Amalfi Coast.
You can find loads to do in two days in Naples and the surroundings.
🇮🇹Checkout This 5-day Naples, Amalfi Coast And Pompeii itinerary🇮🇹
Is Naples Worth 2 Days?
Naples surprised me in the best way.
The food was genuinely the best I had anywhere in Italy, and the city’s authentic character sets it apart from Rome, Lake Garda, Bologna or Siena.
My biggest regret? Not knowing how many fun day trips were nearby. I visited Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and Herculaneum during my stay. If you only have time for one, do Mount Vesuvius. It’s close to Naples and is fantastic. Naples also has some amazing day trips you can consider.
Two days cover the highlights, but three or four days let you explore properly without rushing. The underground tunnels, sunset views from Castel Sant’Elmo, and historic streets make Naples worth visiting.
Visiting Rome? Find out when the worst time to visit is.
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
Is Naples Worth Visiting For 2 Days?
Yes, Naples is worth visiting for two days. I spent four nights in the city, but two days covered the main highlights like Naples Underground, Castel Sant’Elmo, and Spaccanapoli. I found two days sufficient for essential sites, though one or two extra days would let you explore properly without rushing. Book Naples Underground tours for midday when it’s quieter. I visited attractions like the cathedral (free entry), Naples Underground €10.00 ($11.39/£8.53), and Castel Nuovo €6.00 ($6.83/£5.12). Stay in the historic centre to minimise travel time between sites.
Is It Better To Stay In Naples Or Amalfi?
Stay in Naples for a busy, action-packed city experience. It is easier to reach places like Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples. Pick Amalfi if you need those amazing cliffside views and effortlessly get to the beaches.
Where To Avoid Staying In Naples, Italy?
Do not stay near the Napoli Centrale train station (Piazza Garibaldi), Vasto, and Corso Meridionale. Here you will find thousands of people walking the streets, so getting to and from your accommodation will be delayed. Pickpocketing is a problem, and also avoid places further north like Scampia and Secondigliano.
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I have passed through Naples many times, but have never spent more than a few hours exploring. I may need to correct that based on this post. Castel Sant’Elmo intrigues me with its museums and the opportunity to see the sunset from the top.
I just know I’m hitting up EVERY cathedral I see in Italy, but wow the Naples Cathedral is truly jaw dropping! I love that so many attractions involves strolling and gentle movements, it’ll help the digestion after all the pasta and pizza I’ll be eating! I’m planning an Italy trip for next year but I’ll only have two weeks, so I’m thinking 2-3 days sounds doable following your advice!
I love Italy but Naples is one city I haven’t visited yet. I love the idea of the underground tour – I always think it’s fascinating to explore somewhere from an unexpected perspective. You also had a prime spot for your sunset too – from one extreme to the other!
I don’t know if I’m more amazed at how beautiful the cathedral is (wow) or that it doesn’t cost anything to visit, unlike many other big European cathedrals now. The castle for the views would be brilliant, especially at sunset. Also had no idea that Vesuvius was so close. I’d love to take the underground tour. Any kind of unique tour is what I look for when traveling, and always happy to see a city in a different way
I really like Italy having visited a couple of times and me and my partner really want to see more. Any excuse for Pizza and Pasta right? Naples is high on the list. The Cathedral-stunning.
A visit to Naples is long overdue, I went in 2004 when budget airlines were first introduced. I remember back then Naples wasn’t as tourist friendly as it seems to have devloped now. There is way more on offer, some of the sites have been made accessible and the infrastructure is way more travel friendly. I would also say Naples is a great base for exploring further, the Herrculeneaum, Capri and Pompeij are only a short train ride away.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story