Where To Stay In Napoli: All You Need To Know (2024)

Are you planning to visit Naples, Italy? It’s an excellent choice, as the city has a unique flair! However, deciding where to stay in Napoli can be challenging. Let me help you with an overview of the main Naples neighborhoods and a selection of some of the best hotels.

Tourists from all over the world know and visit the stunning Amalfi Coast, but only a few include Napoli in their itinerary in Italy. It’s a pity because the city is beautiful and you’ll be surprised by the many things to do in Napoli.

If you decide to spend one day in Napoli, or even longer, before you book your accommodation, it’s better to get acquainted with the main neighborhoods. Additionally, Napoli has long suffered from a “bad reputation” regarding safety. While this can be a concern in certain areas (like many cities), many Naples neighborhoods are perfectly safe. Of course, you must pay attention, maybe a little more in Napoli than other Italian cities, to beware of pickpockets. Once you know the main areas and their characteristics, choosing where to stay in Napoli according to your budget, travel style, and interests will be easier.

Quick overview – Where to stay in Naples

Naples Neighborhoods Map

Where to stay in Napoli: a district by district guide

Each of the mentioned districts has its charm. Choosing one over another depends on your travel style and budget. Furthermore, it makes quite a difference if you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or visiting Napoli with kids. Therefore, while some Napoli neighborhoods are best suited for certain travelers, my recommendations are just that: recommendations.

Historic Center: Best area to stay in Napoli for first-timers and sightseeing

The Historic Center of Naples, or Centro Storico, is a labyrinth of grandiose architecture, narrow streets, beautiful piazzas, and centuries-old churches. Napoli’s old town encompasses many of the city’s main attractions. Therefore, this is the best area to stay in Naples if you visit the city for the first time or can only spend one day there. You can easily walk to many of Naples’s landmarks. Furthermore, as it’s a busy area, it’s safe, especially for solo female travelers (like me).

Napoli’s old town is rather compact, and you can easily visit alone. However, a guided tour is an excellent choice if you don’t have much time and want to learn more about the city.

Naples Downtown, Veiled Christ & Cloister of St Clare is one of the most exciting tours. Another one worth considering is the small group tour of the Royal Palace and Spanish Quarters (especially if you don’t feel confident strolling in the Quartieri Spagnoli alone).

Things to do in Napoli Historic Center

• Don’t miss the impressive Piazza del Plebiscito, surrounded by majestic buildings.
• Visit the lovely Galleria Umberto I, with its iron and glass vaults and dome, which resembles Milan‘s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
• Get lost in the alleys of Napoli old town.
• Discover the beautiful Santa Chiara Monastery and its peaceful cloister decorated with delightful maiolica tiles.
• Admire the Cristo Velato (veiled Christ), one of the most stunning Italian sculptures, in the tiny San Severo Chapel.
• Stroll along the picturesque Spaccanapoli (via Benedetto Croce and via Forcella)
• Wander in the quaint Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters), one of Naples’s most densely populated working-class neighborhoods (I love that area, but… be careful with your cell phones and wallets).
• Discover underground Napoli with a fascinating tour, including the ancient Greek-Roman aqueduct, and retrace 2,400 years of history.
• Visit the evocative Bourbon Tunnel and discover its fascinating history, first an escape route from the Royal Palace and later, during WWII, a military hospital and a shelter.
• Step back in history at the Catacombs of San Gennaro, where you can discover underground basilicas, stunning frescoes, and ancient burial sites.

Best Hotels in Napoli Historic Center

• The charming B&B Casamatta is in the heart of Napoli’s old town. The rooms are tastefully decorated and have several amenities (TV with streaming, kettle, etc.).
• If you like stylish, contemporary decor, look at Gentile Suites, a delightful, recently renovated bed and breakfast in the historic center of Napoli.
• Elegance Rooms Spaccanapoli features stylish rooms with several amenities and is located only a few steps from the main attractions in Napoli historic center.
• Downtown Napoli B&B – e si nun canto moro features charming decor and uncommon amenities such as a shared kitchen (a perfect option for more extended stays) and luggage storage.

MORE HOTELS IN NAPOLI HISTORIC CENTER

Vomero: Best place to stay in Naples for couples and nightlife

The Vomero neighborhood, one of the city’s most exclusive areas, is perched atop one of ​​Naples’s hills. From there, you have a fantastic view of the city center, the Gulf of Naples, and Mount Vesuvius standing out in the background.

Prices in Vomero are higher than in the rest of the city, but the neighborhood is a trendy, artsy district with a local flair. Furthermore, the vibrant Vomero area is the perfect place to stay in Napoli for nightlife.

Things to do at Napoli Vomero

• Wander the hilly streets lined with elegant buildings to shop for designer clothes and vintage Italian fashion.
• Stroll in Villa Floridiana’s park and enjoy stunning views of the gulf. If you like ceramics, visit the Museum.
• Head to Castel Sant’Elmo and/or the San Martino Charterhouse to admire more breathtaking views from their esplanades.
• Walk along via Palizzi and discover its beautiful Art Nouveau houses.
• For a truly local feel, head to the Vomero market, where fresh fruit and vegetables are sold alongside traditional Italian cheeses and cured meats.

Best Accommodations in Napoli Vomero District

• MILUAR Luxury B&B is located in a beautiful building on a quiet street. The stylish rooms offer many amenities, including air conditioning and a kettle.
• The recently renovated Maison Morghen features lovely modern rooms tastefully decorated. Guests can also use the kitchen, equipped with a microwave, toaster, and fridge.
• Near the Quattro Giornate metro station, the Andy House B&B features modern, tastefully decorated rooms and a delicious breakfast. Guests can also use a shared kitchen.

MORE HOTELS IN NAPOLI VOMERO

Chiaia: Perfect District to Stay in Naples with Kids

Naples is a great place to visit with kids. With impressive historic castles, mysterious underground locations, and delicious pizza, the kids will most likely love every second of the trip. If you plan a family trip to Naples, you should consider staying in Chiaia, near the seafront promenade. The Lungomare (beachfront) is where you will find Naples’ most beautiful and luxurious hotels and also family-friendly accommodations at decent prices.

Chiaia is a charming district thanks to its historic buildings, the Villa Comunale gardens, and the stunning sea views.

Things to Do in Chiaia

• Breathe the sea breeze and walk to Castel dell’Ovo, Napoli’s oldest castle, dating back to the early 12th century. You can visit the fortress’s interior, but you must book through the Naples Municipality in advance. The process is complicated, and I’m not sure it’s worth the hassle. However, I recommend visiting the castle from the outside to admire its architecture and the sweeping views of the Gulf of Napoli.
• Stroll in the park of Villa Comunale and along the seafront.
• Visit the Gay-Odin chocolate factory and shop, whose history dates back to 1888.
• Discover the fascinating Bourbon Gallery. Aside from its tragic past, children and adults will love the view of old rusty cars, Vespas, and other relics of life underground during WWII.

Best Places to Stay in Napoli Chiaia / Seafront

• Located on the seafront, Caracciolo 13 Rooftop & Suites features modern and stylish decor, and some rooms have a balcony and sea views.
• Napoli Tree – Lungomare is a lovely guesthouse close to the seafront. The charming rooms are tastefully decorated and boast a unique flair.

MORE ACCOMMODATIONS IN CHIAIA

Posillipo: Best Place to Stay in Naples for Luxury and Calm

Perched on a green hill overlooking the bay, Posillipo is a wealthy neighborhood and one of Naples’ most beautiful areas. It has beautiful rocky beaches, good restaurants, and lively nightlife. The terraces of the famous Parco Virgiliano offer beautiful views of the sea and the coast.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and peaceful area, Posillipo is a good choice. Although hotels are expensive, many boast fantastic views of Mount Vesuvius. While this is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Napoli, beware that Posillipo is not very well connected to the center of Naples by public transportation. Indeed, there are some, but they have odd schedules and are generally somewhat unreliable. But if you have your car, you’ll get the best of this unique area.

Things to Do in Posillipo

• Stroll in the lush Parco Virgiliano and stop at the panoramic points to enjoy ever-changing views of the city, Mount Vesuvius, and the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida.
• Visit Villa Pausilypon Archaeological Park to admire the ruins and discover the breathtaking coastal landscape.
• If you happen to be in Naples on a Thursday morning, head to the Posillipo market to browse the stalls and find good bargains of designer clothes or home textiles.

Where to stay in Napoli Posillipo

• Hotel Paradiso, BW Signature Collection features modern rooms with all amenities. However, what sets it apart is the amazing view of the Gulf and Mount Vesuvius from the terrace and the restaurant.
• The small Lux B&B offers simple rooms with contemporary decor. The view is breathtaking, and the bed and breakfast is a good value-for-money option.
• If you’re traveling to Italy with kids or a group of friends, the beautiful LHP Suite Posillipo is an excellent choice. Tastefully decorated in a yacht-inspired style, this spacious flat sleeps up to 6 people.

MORE HOTELS IN NAPOLI POSILLIPO

Central Station Area: Where to Stay in Napoli on a Budget

The streets near Napoli Centrale train station are not always picturesque, but it’s here that you’ll find the best options if you want to visit Naples on a budget. On the other hand, the location is very convenient if you want to explore the Amalfi coast or Pompeii. Furthermore, there are plenty of public transportation options to get around.

Where to Stay in Napoli Central Station Area

• The recently refurbished Rooms Stazione Centrale features simple but tastefully decorated rooms, only a few minutes from the main railway station.
• Napoliurbansuite provides excellent value for money. The rooms feature a contemporary style, stylish bathrooms, and several amenities. Beware, however, that bed linen and towels are not included in the price—a bit odd, I admit, but the reviews are all excellent.
• The recently renovated bed and breakfast Welcome to I Colori di Napoli is conveniently located near Napoli Centrale. It features cozy rooms that are air-conditioned, have a kettle, and have other amenities.

MORE HOTELS NEAR NAPOLI CENTRAL STATION

Wrapping things up

Naples is a vibrant and unique city, too often overlooked. While it’s better to avoid some areas, there are many beautiful districts to stay in Napoli. What’s the best district to stay in Napoli? It is hard to tell, as among the ones I recommended, each one has its charm and characteristics. I hope you’ll fall in love with Napoli as I did!

Before you go

Don’t forget to:

• Buy a worldwide travel adapter
• Be sure to be covered by appropriate travel insurance

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