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Dreaming of exploring the ancient city of Naples? You’ve just found the perfect 3-day Naples itinerary!
As passionate travelers who’ve explored Naples inside and out, we know just how much this gritty, vibrant city has to offer and how overwhelming it can be to plan. That’s why we’ve crafted a 3-day itinerary that hits the highlights without the stress.
From underground Roman ruins and world-class museums to Neapolitan street food and day trips to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast, this guide is packed with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or both, this itinerary has you covered.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Naples was this pizza-making class! We had so much fun learning the secrets of pizza making in this iconic city, and eating it was pretty enjoyable too!
Check out the 2,300+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
Breakfast – Vulevu’ Caffetteria Bistrot
Vulevù Caffetteria Bistrot is a cozy spot just a few steps from the Fountain of Neptune, one of the meeting point options for the morning tour. Since it opens at 6 am, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick espresso and a fresh croissant before the early start. Light, convenient, and just what we needed to kick off the day!
Morning – See Naples’ historic sights and underground ruins with a guide
This morning walking tour of Naples was the perfect way to start our trip—and to get to know the city beyond the surface. Running from 8:30 am to 11:30 am, it covers a lot in just a few hours without ever feeling rushed.
We passed iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, Galleria Umberto I, Castel Nuovo, and the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, all while hearing engaging stories that brought Naples’ layered history to life. But the real highlight was a guided visit to La Neapolis Sotterrata, where we explored the ancient Roman tunnels and cisterns that still lie beneath the city streets. Some parts date back over 2,500 years!
Our guide, Flavio, had a real passion for history and explained how the underground system evolved—from Roman aqueducts to WWII bomb shelters. It was wild to realize just how much history is hidden underneath the modern city.
The tour ends near the church above the ruins, but not before you get an hour of free time along Via San Gregorio Armeno. It’s a lively area filled with artisan shops, and you’ll even have time to grab a quick early lunch if you’d like. This experience gave us a much deeper appreciation for Naples—and it was seriously fun, too!
This tour is a fantastic choice for any first-timer in Naples, so book it here!
Afternoon – Tour Castel Nuovo
Your tour wraps up at the Fountain of Neptune, and if you didn’t grab lunch earlier, this is a great time to eat. There are plenty of casual spots nearby for a quick bite before your next stop.
Afterward, walk just three minutes to Castel Nuovo. This iconic fortress, also known as Maschio Angioino, is one of Naples’ most recognizable landmarks, with its dramatic medieval towers and grand triumphal arch entrance.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, impressive frescoes, and centuries-old chapels. The castle also houses the Civic Museum, where you can view historical artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that give insight into Naples’ royal past.
Plan to spend 2–3 hours exploring—entry is only €6 and absolutely worth it!
Late afternoon – Explore Centro Storico (Naples’ historic center)
The morning tour didn’t cover all of Naples’ historic center, so this afternoon is the perfect time to dive deeper into the Centro Storico. You can walk there from Castel Nuovo in about 30 minutes, or save some energy by hopping on the metro at Municipio and riding just a few stops to Duomo.
Once you arrive, head straight to the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta—Naples’ striking cathedral. It’s free to enter and well worth stepping inside to admire the intricate ceilings, marble columns, and gothic-meets-baroque architecture.
But don’t miss the Chapel of San Gennaro, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. The ornate gold and fresco-covered space is stunning, and the adjoining museum houses an impressive collection of treasures and relics.
Admission to both the chapel and museum is €10, and totally worth it for the deeper context they offer into Naples’ religious history and identity.
Aperitivo – WineCafè Da Mario
If you’ve got extra time, keep wandering through the Centro Storico’s winding streets—there’s always another church, piazza, or hidden gem to stumble upon. Otherwise, take a break and ease into the evening with a classic Italian aperitivo at WineCafè Da Mario. Just a 5-minute walk from the Duomo, this cozy spot is perfect for a pre-dinner drink and a few light bites.
Sip on a spritz or glass of local wine while you snack on olives, cured meats, or bruschetta—it’s the ideal way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. Even better, it’s only a 4-minute stroll to the meeting point for your upcoming pizza-making class, so you won’t have to rush.
Dinner – Learn how to make pizza
Neapolitan pizza is the gold standard of pizza, and there’s no better place to learn how to make it than in Naples itself! We booked this authentic cooking class and had such a great time that it became the highlight of our trip.
In true Italian fashion, we opted for the late class from 8:00 to 10:00 pm. The vibe was relaxed and fun, with Chef Amos greeting everyone warmly. The group was split into pairs, with each couple making one pizza. We started off with tasty local appetizers while Amos explained the unique ingredients that define Neapolitan pizza and gave a fun overview of how this beloved dish came to be.
Next, we got hands-on with the dough—learning traditional techniques like “mopping” and how to divide dough balls the old-school way. After assembling and topping our pizzas, we slid them into the oven using a wooden shovel, just like a real pizzaiolo. Then came the best part: sitting down to enjoy our freshly made pizzas with some well-earned beer and wine.
There’s also a 5:30 pm class if you prefer an earlier evening. Just note that with the earlier option, you’ll likely need to skip Castel Nuovo or limit your time in the historic center.
Book this cooking class here and create a perfect pizza in Naples!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Breakfast – Pasticceria Caffetteria Floria
Start your second day with a light breakfast—either near your hotel or, for something special, head to Pasticceria Caffetteria Floria. Just a 12-minute walk from the Naples Centrale train station, this charming café has earned glowing reviews for its buttery pastries and strong Italian coffee. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before stepping into ancient history.
Then make your way to Piazza Garibaldi to catch the Sorrento Line train toward Ercolano Scavi. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and trains run roughly every 10 minutes. Since your guided tour of Herculaneum kicks off at 10:30 am, plan to board by 9:45 am at the latest.
Morning – Visit Herculaneum with an expert guide
Much like Pompeii, Herculaneum is an ancient Roman city that was buried, and astonishingly preserved, when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. We knew the best way to experience it was with a guide, so we booked this skip-the-line tour, which is led by expert archaeologists.
Schedule the 10:30 am start time, which is generally the earliest slot available and a great way to beat the midday heat and larger tour groups. Our guide, Luciano, had an incredible depth of knowledge and made the city come alive with stories and insights. Thanks to the included skip-the-line entry, we avoided long queues and walked straight in.
Herculaneum was a smaller but wealthier town than Pompeii, and it’s even better preserved—wooden elements like roofs, doors, and bed frames have survived nearly 2,000 years. It’s also less famous than Pompeii, which means fewer crowds and more space to explore at your own pace.
This tour was a highlight of our trip and an absolute must for history lovers. It’s well worth the short train ride from Naples and makes for a more relaxed and equally fascinating alternative to Pompeii.
Check out the HUNDREDS of raving reviews and book this fascinating tour here!
Lunch – Volta
The tour wraps up around 12:30 pm at the Herculaneum Archaeological Park, giving you the rest of the afternoon to explore more of Naples. From here, head back the same way you came by catching the Sorrento Line train from Ercolano Scavi back to Piazza Garibaldi. Once in the city, you can either take a 30-minute walk to the Naples National Archaeological Museum or hop on a connecting metro line to save time and energy.
Before visiting the museum, grab a quick lunch nearby. We recommend Volta, just a 4-minute walk from the entrance—it’s a convenient and well-reviewed spot to recharge before your next round of sightseeing. Their seasonal menu and stylish setting make it an excellent spot for a little break between adventures.
Afternoon – Naples National Archaeological Museum
By now, it will be mid-afternoon, and you can spend around 2–3 hours at the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Greco-Roman artifacts.
Highlights include original mosaics and sculptures from Pompeii and Herculaneum, ancient Roman frescoes, and the renowned Farnese Collection. Take your time wandering the galleries—it’s the kind of museum that really helps bring everything you’ve seen at the ruins to life.
Option 1: Naples Downtown food tour
If you’re looking for a more guided and immersive dinner experience, this evening food tour is a fantastic option. It kicks off at 5:45 pm from Piazza Bellini, which is just an easy 8-minute walk from the Archaeological Museum—making it a seamless transition from sightseeing to savoring.
This was the experience that truly made us fall in love with Naples. It struck the perfect balance between food and history, offering a flavorful introduction to the city’s rich culinary culture while weaving in fascinating stories and local legends.
We met our guide, Daniella, by the ancient Greek ruins tucked into Piazza Bellini, and from that point on, the night just kept getting better. Daniella was lively, knowledgeable, and had us laughing while guiding us through some of Naples’ most important streets and historic piazzas. But the real magic happened when we ducked into hidden alleys and quiet side streets to discover local foodie gems.
We sampled everything from panuozzo sandwiches and sfogliatelle to whipped salted cod, authentic pizza, and creamy gelato. One of our favorite moments was the limoncello tasting at a specialty shop—sweet, citrusy, and just the right kick to keep us going.
We’d recommend this tour to absolutely anyone. It’s a delicious, engaging, and authentic way to explore Naples. Plus, Daniella gave us restaurant tips and must-try dishes that we used for the rest of our trip.
Book this food tour here and experience the true flavor of Naples!
Option 2: Apertivo and dinner on your own
If you’d rather eat a little later and enjoy the evening on your own schedule, this option is ideal. After wrapping up your time at the museum, take a 14-minute walk to Cantina Central 92, a cozy spot where you can settle in for a classic Italian aperitivo. Sip on a spritz or a local wine while nibbling on small bites—it’s the perfect way to ease into the night.
Once you’re ready for dinner, head just three minutes down the road to Gino e Toto Sorbillo, one of the most famous pizzerias in Naples. This iconic spot is beloved by locals and visitors alike, known for its perfectly blistered crusts, fresh ingredients, and traditional Neapolitan technique. It’s often busy, but absolutely worth the wait.
Between the laid-back aperitivo and the world-renowned pizza, this evening offers a relaxed and delicious way to close out your second day in Naples.
Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your Italy trip? Check out our 10-day Italy itinerary here!
Day 3
Breakfast – Grab on the go!
Depending on which day trip you’re feeling up for today, you’ll likely want to start with a quick breakfast near your hotel before heading out. Whether you’re craving coastal views or ancient ruins, today’s all about leaning into your travel vibe, with a visit to either the breathtaking Amalfi Coast or the legendary ruins of Pompeii.
Option 1: Amalfi Coast day trip
This top-rated day trip is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the Amalfi Coast but is short on time. It’s also a smart, budget-friendly way to experience this iconic region, since staying in Naples and taking a day tour is far more affordable than booking a night along the coast.
Pickup is conveniently scheduled for 8:30 am, giving you a smooth and easy start to the day. The Amalfi Coast is absolutely breathtaking, but the winding cliffside roads are no joke, so we were more than happy to leave the driving to our skilled and friendly driver, Salvatore.
The first stop was Sorrento, where we had free time to wander the charming streets. We loved strolling along Corso Italia, the town’s lively main strip, and took a short detour to check out the cathedral, just as our guide suggested.
Next up was Positano, and what really made this tour stand out is that it included free time in the heart of Positano, which many tours skip. We explored the colorful lanes, browsed local shops, and enjoyed lunch on a restaurant terrace with unforgettable ocean views.
The final stop was the town of Amalfi, where we had even more time to stroll, relax, or simply sit by the sea with a gelato in hand.
This tour is a fantastic way to soak in the magic and beauty of the Amalfi Coast in just one day, without the stress of planning or driving. With 4,500+ glowing reviews, we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it.
Book this unforgettable day trip here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Option 2: Pompeii day trip
Another fantastic option for your final day in Naples is this full-day tour to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, with pickup at 8:00 am. If you’re more into ancient history and adventure than coastal villages, this tour offers an unforgettable experience—and it’s one we’d call a must-do while you’re in the city.
The day begins with a guided walking tour of Pompeii, where you’ll explore the remarkably preserved ruins of a Roman city frozen in time. Our guide, Diane, walked us through ancient streets, public baths, temples, and market squares while painting a vivid picture of what daily life was like nearly 2,000 years ago. Having skip-the-line tickets made everything seamless and stress-free.
Afterwards, we stopped for lunch at a vineyard-side restaurant, and while we didn’t expect much, we ended up eating some of the best Neapolitan pizza of our trip—served on a breezy balcony with vineyard views.
The final part of the tour was an optional hike to the crater of Mount Vesuvius. It’s a bit steep in places, but manageable, and totally worth it for the views alone. Standing on the edge of the volcano that buried Pompeii was an unforgettable moment.
This tour combines history, scenery, and adventure all in one well-organized day!
Check reviews and book your spot on this epic day trip here!
Dinner – Trattoria Castel Nuovo
After your full-day tour, head back to your hotel to freshen up and rest a bit—you’ve earned it! For your final dinner in Naples, we recommend Trattoria Castel Nuovo, a cozy and highly rated spot near the waterfront. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your trip over a delicious meal of classic Neapolitan dishes. Be sure to make a reservation, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly!
Related Read: After Naples, head south and follow our perfect 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary to wrap up your trip!
Where to Stay in Naples
Now that you have a full Naples itinerary, you need to find the best place to stay! There are many different neighborhoods, so if you’re looking for history, something trendy, or something off the beaten path, you can find it here. I’ll leave my top recommendations below for a luxury, mid-range, and budget stay:
Luxury – $$$
If you love sea view rooms with an elegant design, you’ll love the Grand Hotel Vesuvio! This luxury hotel sits right on the Gulf of Naples, and in addition to the views, you can enjoy the spa, sauna, pools, sky bar, and onsite restaurant with fresh Italian cuisine. The hotel has a classic design and is situated in the historic quarter.
Rooms start around €450 a night, and you’re definitely paying for quality here. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Santa Lucia is one of my favorite areas to stay in Naples, and the Casa Vittoria Napoli is an excellent hotel! This B&B includes breakfast and has modern, cozy rooms at a moderate price. The location is fantastic, and the staff are even better, so this makes for a very comfortable and convenient stay. They offer double, twin, or king rooms, and also suites and family-sized rooms.
Prices range from €150 to €300 and can be booked on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Hotel Le Orchidee is a quaint hotel and an excellent budget stay! Located right in the center of Naples, it puts you right in the action. The rooms are very nice – modern, clean, and have a balcony and a desk. The historic building is super charming and the staff are friendly and helpful.
Prices range from about €70 to €150 USD and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Check out all the hotels in Naples here for even more options!
Related Read: For a more complete look at the best areas and hotels in Naples, check out our full Where to Stay guide here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Naples is on so many travelers’ bucket lists for a reason – it’s simply amazing! From learning how to make the world’s best pizza, to discovering ancient Roman Ruins, or strolling through the historic streets, we loved our time here. Follow this three-day itinerary and I know you will too!
Before you go, be sure to read up on our other Italy blogs! We have traveled all over this beautiful country and love sharing our favorite places and experiences. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next getaway!
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Venice: 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Florence: The Best 3-Day Itinerary