Sightseeing on a Budget in Naples

Naples may lack the romantic appeal of Rome and Venice, but southern Italy’s gritty, noisy port town is a comparative bargain for budget travelers. The country's third-largest city, it has amenities at all price ranges and makes a cost-effective base for exploring the Bay of Naples’ ancient attractions. Here’s how to stretch your euros. 

Visit Art-Filled Churches

Many of Naples’ artistic treasures can be seen at little to no cost inside places of worship that are open to the public. Check out frescoes by Giotto in Santa Chiara church, Byzantine mosaics at the Cathedral of Naples baptistery, and the ancient Roman ruins buried under the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore.  

Walk or Bike

The compact historical center of Naples is ideal for wandering on foot or exploring by bicycle. It doesn’t cost a thing to soak up the scene in public squares such as Piazza San Domenico Maggiore or stroll through the labyrinth of old Naples’ backstreets. Guided walking and bike tours can reveal hidden corners brimming with history. 

Take Advantage of Low-Cost Day Trips

Naples is well positioned as a jumping-off point for southern Italian highlights such as Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast. The cheap Circumvesuviana regional train can zip you there for a day of archaeological exploring and have you back in Naples in time for dinner. Alternatively, group day trips arrange all the transportation for a stress-free day of sightseeing. 

Dig In to Neapolitan Pizza

Luckily for budget travelers, the signature dish of Naples will only set you back a handful of euros at most casual pizzerias. Fresh, margherita-style pizzas are easy to find in any corner of the city and pair well with a wallet-friendly scoop of gelato. Take the guesswork out of finding the city's best pizza, pastries, and other Neapolitan specialties on a food tour.