Essential Tips for Tourists in Naples: A Traveler’s Guide

Naples, a city with a vibrant energy that rivals New York and Taipei, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and gastronomy. If you’re planning a trip to this fascinating Italian city, here are some invaluable tips for tourists in Naples to ensure a memorable experience. Those tips are from firsthand visitors and locals so trust us, they are golden.

Navigating the City Firstly, don’t rely on Google Maps for opening times; it’s not always accurate. Instead, observe the foot traffic on Google Maps to gauge if a place is open. Remember, most establishments open late and close early, so plan accordingly. Sundays to Tuesdays are common days off for local businesses, making them ideal for out-of-town excursions.

Connectivity Ensure you download offline maps and Italian translation data on your phone. Signals can be weak indoors, and Wi-Fi isn’t widespread. If you need a SIM card, the cheapest option is probably to go for the nearest Iliad store, for around 20 € you should be covered for a month.

Beware of Scams Be cautious of unofficial websites offering overpriced guided tours. The official ones are usually less polished and may have slower load times.

Stay Hydrated Naples’ climate can be warm, so carry plenty of water with you as you explore.

Cultural Hotspots The Centro Storico is the historical heart of Naples, where you can admire medieval churches without spending a dime. However, watch out for motorbikes and cars zipping through the narrow streets.

But there is MUCH more worth visiting in Naples. The Vomero hill is almost tourists-free being an upper class residential zone. It offer a very different perspective of Naples and some astonishing views that we strongly advise not to miss.
Reaching Vomero is easy, just use the superb subway system of the city to reach Vanvitelli or Medaglie D’Oro stations and you are already in Vomero, ready to stroll in Via Luca Giordano and Via Scarlatti, you walkable streets full of local shops , bars and restaurants.

Dining in Naples Neapolitan cuisine is divine, but note the unusual hours. Many restaurants open for dinner from 7 PM to midnight and for lunch from 12 to 3:30 PM. A ‘coperto’ or cover charge is common, but meals are reasonably priced. For authentic local flavors, try Starita, considered by many the best pizza of the city.

Local Delicacies For quick bites, Sorbillo offers excellent pizza without the long wait. Indulge in pastries like sfogliatella and baba al rhum from renowned bakeries such as Carraturo and Scaturchio.

Coffee and Drinks When in Italy, coffee is a must-try anywhere. For cocktails, Naples has a burgeoning scene with places like Ex Salumeria and Flanagan’s offering a sophisticated selection.
For coffee, be sure to visit Gran Caffè Gambrinus as it is the oldest of the city and an artpiece by itself.

Easy access to weed and hash You can just ask around and hope to find some street dealer or you can walk around in common place for weed enjoyers hoping that someone stops you.
But still you risk to get scammed so we advise to ask a professional that will only accept cash.

Shopping Naples offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end boutiques in Chiaia to artisanal crafts near Vico San Domenico Maggiore. For souvenirs, pick up Neapolitan taralli or visit local salumerias for cheeses and pastas.

Getting Around Staying near Napoli Central station is recommended for its convenience. The Alibus from the airport is a reliable and affordable option. Within the city, the subway and trains are efficient, but walking is the best way to soak in the local atmosphere.

Conclusion Naples is not just a gateway to the Amalfi Coast; it’s a destination in its own right. With these tips for tourists in Naples, you’re set for an adventure that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. So pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with Naples!

Sources: My tips for other tourists after 9 days in Naples : r/napoli (reddit.com)