How to Beat the Crowds in Naples
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.
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.
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.
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.
With its vibrant mix of sights and sounds, Naples is one of Italy’s most captivating cities. However, paired with the crush of both Neapolitans and visitors, it can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips for beating the crowds in Naples.
Reserve tickets for the top sights in advance
Save time and skip the line.
Much of the charm of Naples lies in exploring the warren of lanes in its historic center, but there are a few headline sights that you won’t want to miss. Book skip-the-line admission tickets to the National Archaeological Museum, Royal Palace, and Capodimonte Museum to save hours of waiting in line.
Set sail across the bay
Take a cruise.
The coastline south of Naples encompasses the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast. Leave the crowds on land and book a boat tour or day cruise to take in the views; tours typically stop for a secluded swim and moor at a waterfront seafood restaurant for lunch.
Head for the hills
Take a trip outside the city center.
The residential neighborhoods above Naples offer a welcome break from the chaotic city center below, and have the added bonus of tree-lined streets, restaurants, high-end shopping, and city views. Explore Posillipo or Vomero by taking the scenic funicular lines from downtown Naples.
Enjoy Naples by night
Head out after sunset and enjoy the sights.
With its colorful street vendors and lively markets, Naples by day is a festive sight. But evening brings the departure of tour groups and the city adopts a more languid pace. Take an evening tour to admire its squares and castles when illuminated, and then stop for an authentic pizza napoletana.
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