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Where to Find the Best Views in Naples


Where to Find the Best Views in Naples
Hi, I'm Rebecca!

Rebecca’s first visit to Italy was a coup de foudre and her affection for Il Bel Paese has only grown over almost 30 years of living here, during which time she has mastered the art of navigating the sampietrini cobblestones in heels but has yet to come away from a plate of bucatini all’amatriciana with an unsullied blouse. She covers Italy travel, culture, and cuisine for a number of print and online publications.

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Hi, I'm Rebecca!

Rebecca’s first visit to Italy was a coup de foudre and her affection for Il Bel Paese has only grown over almost 30 years of living here, during which time she has mastered the art of navigating the sampietrini cobblestones in heels but has yet to come away from a plate of bucatini all’amatriciana with an unsullied blouse. She covers Italy travel, culture, and cuisine for a number of print and online publications.

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Naples has lived in the shadow of an active volcano for millennia, and you won’t find many soaring domes or observation decks defying the mountain’s geological rumblings. Instead, to get a bird’s-eye view in this coastal city, head to one of its historic castles or hillside scenic overlooks.  

Castel Sant'Elmo

For sweeping centuries-old views.

Originally a church, this fortress was transformed into a castle in the 14th century. The site’s hilltop perch offers one of the city’s most dazzling views, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the panorama across the city and the bay to the islands on the horizon.

Explore Saint Elmo's Castle

Castel dell'Ovo

For dinner, drinks, and views.

Set on a rocky outcrop just off Naples’ seaside promenade, this Norman castle offers views of the city from below from its crenellated ramparts. After you take in the view, dine at one of the many charming seafood restaurants clustered around its walls. 

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Castel dell' Ovo is seen as the sun sets in the Gulf of Naples.

The Castel dell'Ovo is a popular stop on Naples bus tours. | Photo Credit: Silvia Longhi / Viator

Belvedere di San Martino

For sunset vistas.

Every evening, romantics and photographers flock to this scenic overlook near the Charterhouse of San Martino to catch sunset views of the city and the bay. If you’re looking for a spot to steal a kiss over Bella Napoli, this is the place to be.

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Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)

For unparalleled cityscapes.

This 13th-century castle is located adjacent to Naples’ historic center and is often a stop on guided tours of the city. Head to the rooftop to take in views of the bay on one side and the city and base of Mt. Vesuvius on the other.

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A bird's eye view of Castel Nuovo and Sant'Elmo.
Both Castel Nuovo and Sant'Elmo as seen from above. | Photo Credit: Novikov Aleksey / Shutterstock

Mt. Vesuvius

For incredible Italian views.

For the most spectacular views in Campania, there’s no better spot than the smouldering crater at the top of Mt. Vesuvius. Gaze into the distance, and you’ll see the whole of Naples, as well as the island of Ischia to the north and Sorrento and Capri to the south.

Explore Mt. Vesuvius

Belvedere di Sant’Antonio a Posillipo

For Posillipo panoramas.

Hop on the funicular from the Mergellina neighborhood, on the water’s edge, and take a scenic ride up to the top of Naples’ Posillipo Hill. There, a panoramic overlook offers an unobstructed view across the bay to Mt. Vesuvius on the opposite shore.

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The view from Mt. Vesuvius.
Climbing Mt. Vesuvius is worth it for the panoramic views. | Photo Credit: Silvia Longhi / Viator

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See all Naples tours
2,210 tours & tickets
Things to do in Naples
See all things to do in Naples
Naples Neighborhood Guide
5 Must-See Naples Neighborhoods and How to Visit