“When the moon hits your eye
Like a big pizza pie, that’s amore
When the world seems to shine
Like you’ve had too much wine, that’s amore”
These are some of the most famous lyrics in the world and guess what? It’s a song that talks about a flourishing relationship between two lovers in the romantic city of Naples.
And that’s our theme of the day: Napoli!
One of the most interesting and unique city in the world, a tour in Naples is mandatory if you’re coming to Italy.
So … what is Naples Famous For?
Nestled in southern Italy, this city stands as a captivating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, offering a unique and irresistible allure that beckons travelers from across the globe. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply a wanderer seeking authentic experiences, a tour of Naples is an absolute must when exploring Italy.
Naples, often lovingly referred to as Napoli in its native Italian tongue, stands as a city with an enchanting story to tell. It’s renowned for a myriad of reasons, and a visit here unveils a treasure trove of experiences that will linger in your heart and memory.
A Dive into History
Naples, with its ancient origins dating back to the 8th century BC when it was founded by the Greeks, is a living testament to the passage of time. Over millennia, this city has been a home and a canvas for various civilizations – Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Spanish, to name just a few.
The result? A rich tapestry of history that has bestowed upon Naples a unique identity. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as a tangible portal to the past, adorned with architectural marvels and ancient ruins that narrate tales of conquest and legacy.
Indeed, when exploring Naples, you’ll find yourself immersed in a living history book, where each cobbled street and centuries-old building whispers secrets of older eras.
Naples: A Gastronomic Paradise
Naples’ street food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. Here are some delicious examples of street food you can savor in Naples:
- Pizza Margherita: Naples is the birthplace of pizza (American Pizza is different, you have to believe us!), and you can enjoy a slice of the iconic Pizza Margherita right on the streets. It’s a simple yet delectable combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil, all baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. There’s also the “Pizza a Portafoglio” version: literally translated as “wallet pizza,” this is a folded pizza that you can enjoy on the go. It’s a convenient and tasty option for a quick snack.
- Sfogliatella: These flaky and sweet pastries come in two main varieties – riccia (with a ricotta filling) and frolla (with a sweet ricotta and citrus filling). Sfogliatella is a must-try treat for those with a sweet tooth.
- Frittatina: Frittatina is a popular Neapolitan snack made by frying pasta, often leftover pasta, into a crispy and delightful morsel. It’s an inventive way to enjoy pasta on the go.
- Cuoppo: Cuoppo is a cone-shaped paper filled with an assortment of fried seafood, including calamari, shrimp, and small fish. It’s a seafood lover’s dream come true.
- Panzerotto: This fried turnover resembles a mini-calzone and is usually filled with tomato, mozzarella, and your choice of other ingredients like ham or spinach. It’s the perfect handheld snack.
- Crocchè: These are potato croquettes, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They come in various flavors, including plain potato, potato and cheese, or potato and ham.
Naples’ street food is a reflection of its rich culinary heritage and offers a delightful array of flavors that will satisfy any palate. Be sure to explore the local food markets and street vendors to indulge in these mouthwatering treats while immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. These are also very cheap snacks!
Exploring Naples: Monuments and Sites
Beyond its culinary delights, Naples offers numerous attractions and activities for travelers. There’s truly something for everyone. Naples tours provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and history.
A walking tour through Naples unveils a treasure trove of monuments, historic sites, and cultural gems that paint a vivid picture of its rich heritage. Here are some of the must-visit sites:
- Castel dell’Ovo: as you stroll along the Naples waterfront, your gaze will inevitably be drawn to the imposing Castel dell’Ovo, which translates to the “Egg Castle. This ancient fortress, perched on the seafront, dates back to Roman times and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples.
- Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino): continuing your journey through history, Castel Nuovo is a magnificent medieval castle that stands as a symbol of Naples. Its grandeur and architectural splendor make it a must-visit. Inside, you can explore its historic halls, including the Sala dei Baroni, adorned with intricate frescoes.
- Naples National Archaeological Museum: If you’re passionate about history and archaeology, this museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including a remarkable collection of Roman and Greek antiquities. It houses the famous Farnese Bull sculpture and numerous artifacts from the excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum.
- San Gregorio Armeno: known as the “street of the nativity scenes” this narrow alley is a hub for artisans creating intricate nativity scenes year-round. It’s a unique and charming experience that offers a glimpse into Neapolitan craftsmanship.
- Piazza del Plebiscito: this grand square is the heart of Naples and is flanked by architectural marvels such as the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. It’s a hub of cultural and political significance and a fantastic spot for people-watching.
- Naples Underground: for an alternative view of the city, venture beneath the streets to explore the Naples Underground. This labyrinth of tunnels and caverns reveals layers of history, including ancient Greek and Roman aqueducts and World War II-era air-raid shelters. It’s a fascinating and slightly eerie journey through time.
- Santa Chiara Complex: a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city, the Santa Chiara Complex boasts a beautiful cloister adorned with vibrant ceramic tiles. It’s a tranquil spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and appreciate the delicate beauty of the cloister.
- Spaccanapoli: literally translating to “Naples splitter,” this narrow street cuts through the historic center, offering a captivating journey through Naples’ historic neighborhoods. Along Spaccanapoli, you’ll encounter churches, shops, and local life that encapsulate the essence of Naples. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and a taste of local culture.
- Catacombs of San Gennaro: explore the underground catacombs, which are home to early Christian burials and the final resting place of San Gennaro, Naples’ patron saint. The catacombs provide a glimpse into the city’s religious history and offer a unique perspective on ancient burial traditions. And if you’ve read our article on San Gennaro, you know it’s a must!
A walking tour through Naples is like stepping back in time, where each step leads you to a new chapter of its history and culture. These monuments and sites are just a taste of what Naples has to offer, promising an enriching and immersive experience for travelers with a thirst for knowledge and adventure.
Do you want to book one of our tours?
We bet that after talking so much about Naples you’re now dying to go!
Luckily, we have the perfect Naples tours for you:
We’re here for you every step of the way.
You can contact us on our site, where you’ll find our phone and e-mail address.
Or you can directly book the tour you like the most on this section.
If you’re walking around Sorrento, you can also directly find us in Piazza Torquato Tasso 16.
Here you can book on the spot, we don’t do cut-offs 😉
Iamme Ia! has been in the industry of tour operators since 2014, gaining recognition by Grayline: the most well-known international tourism company with partners all around the world.
Rest assured with us and just … Iamme Ia! – Let’s go!
Your next adventure awaits you.