The glorious city of Naples is located in southern Italy and is the third largest city in the country, after Rome and Milan. Naples has a rich ancient history that dates back to the 6th Century when it was founded by Greek explorers.
As such it is an expansive city, that is brimming with a fantastic art scene, gastronomic delights, and fascinating historical attractions that draw thousands of people to this invigorating city year-round.
If you are visiting the city for work or pleasure you need to know about the best places to stay to fully enjoy this exciting Italian destination. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat from the fast-paced city or want to be in the heart of the action, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about Naples.
From the vibrant Spanish Quarters to the polished streets of Posillipo, we will guide you through the five best areas to stay in Naples.
In this travel guide:
Centro Storico
If you want to be close to the city’s many superb attractions, then staying in Centro Storico is the perfect location. The area is a jungle of Baroque buildings, impressive historical attractions, and ancient churches.
If you intend to visit museums such as the Naples National Archaeological Museum or aim to see cultural sights such as the Cloisters of Santa Chiara, then staying in Centro Storico is ideal.
Centro Storico is known as the historic quarter of Naples and is one of the busiest areas of the city, with many street side cafés and bars. Locals live here too and the area is very much alive with family-owned restaurants around every corner, and scooters zipping in and out as you walk along the cobbled streets.
This area of the city is a great place for first-time visitors or those looking to experience the true nature of Naples. In Centro Storico, you will never be far from a good espresso or have to walk long to find a fabulous restaurant.
You will also be surrounded by the stunning ancient architecture that makes Naples so special, and you will no doubt fall in love with the charming streets and hectic yet spirited atmosphere of the city.
Best place to stay in Centro Storico
Artemisia Domus. Address: Via dei Carrozzieri a Monteoliveto, 13, 80134 Naples, Italy.
Quartieri Spagnoli
Naples’s Quartieri Spagnoli or ‘Spanish Quarters’ is a great reflection of the city’s history and was founded in the 16th Century following the Spanish invasion. The area was named the Spanish Quarters as it is where the Spanish soldiers stayed following the invasion and is today one of the most vibrant areas of the city.
Here you will notice a grid pattern to the buildings with narrow cobbled streets, that are usually strung with drying laundry and locals calling to each other from their apartments.
It is a beautiful part of the city that is close to the Historic Center. The busy shopping district of Via Toledo borders the east side of the area and it has great public transport connections to the rest of Naples.
If you are looking for a unique place that is surrounded by typical Neapolitan life then the Spanish Quarter is a great place to stay. In the past it has had a negative reputation for being unsafe, however, in recent years it has become one of the most popular areas for tourists to visit and is a hub for art and culture.
Artistic murals decorate the buildings giving the area a sense of intrigue and it is fun to walk around seeking out the many murals dedicated to the famous footballer, Diego Armando Maradona who is a Neapolitan icon.
Best place to stay in Quartieri Spagnoli
La Ciliegina Hotel. Address: Via Paolo Emilio Imbriani 30, Port of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy.
Vomero
The Vomero district is located above the city of Naples, on a hilltop that offers stunning views of the cityscape below. The area is known as the upscale side of Naples and is crammed with delightful gelaterias and fine-dining restaurants.
The area attracts many tourists to its leafy streets due to the Castel Sant’Elmo, which is an impressive fortress that has an amazing viewpoint over the city. The fortress itself is very popular and dates back to the 13th Century. It has undergone many reconstructions over the years and has a striking hexagonal shape.
The area of Vomero is very appealing to tourists due to its quiet atmosphere and variety of green spaces. It is mostly a residential area, however, it also has a lively shopping district that surrounds the fashionable Piazza Vanvitell.
It is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for a more peaceful location, yet the city center is still accessible via the Funicolare Centrale, a public transport service which runs daily taking passengers to the Historic Centre from Vomero.
The Vomero district is a popular place to stay in Naples because it is considered safe and has an unhurried atmosphere. There are many great restaurants, cafés, and shops to enjoy and the historical attractions of the city are within easy reach.
Best place to stay in Vomero
Hotel Cimarosa. Address: Via Cimarosa 29, 5° Piano, Vomero, 80127 Naples, Italy.
Lungomare di Napoli
The Lungomare di Napoli is an attractive stretch of coastline that includes an impressive 3 km promenade and offers fantastic views of the sprawling city of Naples. This area is known for its beautiful ocean views and is a pedestrianized area, where locals and tourists both enjoy soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
The area around Lungomare is great for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat from the hectic city with a multitude of cafes and seaside restaurants serving fresh fish to enjoy.
Lungomare also has some fantastic cultural attractions to see such as the Castel dell’Ovo, Naples’s oldest castle which is located on a peninsula to the left of Lungomare. It is also a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or take a moment at one of the small beach areas.
Many people come to Lungomare to relax, enjoy a meal, or even cycle along the promenade taking in the spectacular views. If you are looking for a relaxing part of the city to stay in, then Lungomare is a great choice with picturesque views, a wide open promenade, and serene views of the Gulf of Naples.
It is a great place to unwind while still being close enough to the city to sight-see if you like.
Best place to stay in Lungomare
Grand Hotel Vesuvio. Address: Via Partenope 45, Lungomare Caracciolo, 80121 Naples, Italy.
Cheaper alternative:
Barbarella Home. Address: Via Santa Maria in Portico 3, Chiaia, 80100 Naples, Italy.
Posillipo
Located overlooking the city of Naples with views of the island of Capri, is the area of Posillipo. The area is affluent and mostly residential, however, it is also known for its fantastic seafood restaurants and has many excellent bars serving delicious cocktails.
Around the area of Posillipo beautiful historic villas, which have been carefully restored, dominate the streets, among fine restaurants and luxury retail stores. Visitors to the area are attracted by the scenic views, such as the Posillipo Hill which offers serene views of Mount Vesuvius and is accessible via the funicular from Mergellina.
It is also home to the Posillipo Archaeological Park, which includes the ancient remains of a Roman Villa with a restored Roman tunnel and an outdoor amphitheater. Guided tours of the park are available and many people come to view the impressive Roman ruins with views across the Gulf of Naples.
Posillipo is dotted with wonderful beach spots and small coves and has an obvious Roman influence, thanks to the discovery of the area by the Romans in the 1st Century AD.
It is an invigorating part of Naples and is one of the city’s hidden gems thanks to its hilltop location, and is home to many wealthy residents of Naples who enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the area.
Best place to stay in Posillipo
PrimoPianoPosillipo. Address: 299 Via Posillipo, Posillipo, 80123 Naples, Italy.
Where travel experts stay in Naples
Curious to discover the accommodation choices of travel experts from renowned publishers such as The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet when they are in Naples? Delve into our comprehensive guide showcasing all highly recommended hotels in Naples. This includes everything from hostels to B&Bs that these critics prefer during their stay.
Budget
“The new wave of tourism has produced an elegant crop of small-scale modern hotels, like the eight-room Artemisia Domus, which opened inside a former fourth-floor residence in 2018, rebuilt with wood beams, the remains of a fresco, and a few other original details intact.” – New York Times.
Address: Via dei Carrozzieri a Monteoliveto, 13, 80134 Naples, Italy.
Mid-range
“Contemporary artworks, cultural soirées and impeccable hospitality plug you straight into Naples’ cultural scene at Magma. Its eight rooms – each designed by a local artist – intrigue with their mix of Italian design classics, upcycled materials and specially commissioned artworks.”
Address: Via San Giuseppe Dei Nudi 18, 80135 Naples, Italy.
Luxury
“You’d never guess from the modern exterior that this is the oldest of the city’s great seafront hotels—the place where Enrico Caruso died, where Oscar Wilde dallied with lover Lord Alfred Douglas, and where Bill Clinton charmed the waitresses—fortunately, the spacious, soothing interior compensates for what’s lacking on the outside.” – Fodor’s.
Address: Via Partenope 45, Lungomare Caracciolo, 80121 Naples, Italy.
FAQ: Naples hotel tips
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Naples? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for a splendid hostel? Want to know which Naples hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Naples.
How much do I have to pay for a night in a hotel in Naples?
For 3-star hotels, the average rate is around $80 per night. If you’re looking for a 4-star hotel, then the rates are around $140 per night. The average rate for a 5-star hotel in Naples is around $300 per night.
What is the best budget hotel in Naples?
If you are on the hunt for an affordable hotel, then you should consider reserving Vomero High Hotel. It is a great option for those on a budget, as it provides good value for your money. Additionally, the hotel is in a suitable location, and professional travelers have given it their approval. Moreover, the guests who have stayed at the hotel have shared positive reviews. We also have a list of the top-rated budget hotels in Naples.
What is the best boutique hotel in Naples?
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but prefer to stay away from the well-known chain hotels, then Artemisia Domus is an excellent option for you. This hotel has been very well-reviewed by travelers and experts alike. For more information on other cool hotels, take a look at our list of the top boutique hotels in Naples.
What is the best luxury hotel in Naples?
If cost is not an issue, Grand Hotel Vesuvio is a great option for those seeking a luxurious hotel in Naples. This establishment offers excellent customer service, is situated in an ideal location, and has garnered high reviews from customers and travel experts alike. To discover more 5-star hotels, take a look at our selection of the top luxury hotels in Naples.
What is the best hostel in Naples?
If you’re in search of a well-priced private room or comfy dorm in Naples, Ostello Bello Napoli is worth a look. The hostel has been highly praised by backpackers. Additionally, we have compiled a shortlist of the finest hostels in Naples based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
Which Naples hotel serves a delicious breakfast?
To begin the day on a positive note, the Grand Hotel Vesuvio is a great choice if you’re seeking accommodations in Naples with a fantastic morning meal. Those who have recently stayed there have provided excellent reviews about the breakfast provided at the hotel.
What is the most romantic hotel in Naples?
When it comes to planning a romantic getaway, there is nothing more important than choosing the perfect hotel. We recommend Artemisia Domus if you want to make your stay in Naples truly memorable. It’s also an adults-only hotel.
Which is the best hotel in Naples for a family stay?
If you and your family are considering a holiday getaway to Naples, travelers who have gone there with their families have had excellent feedback about Relais Della Porta.
Best time to visit Naples
Visiting Naples during the late spring and early fall is particularly enchanting. From late April to June and September to October, the city basks in pleasant weather, making these months the best time to visit Naples.
You can saunter around its historic sites under the warm sunshine without the discomfort of the scorching summer heat.
During these periods, you can truly embrace the charming hustle and bustle of Naples without having to battle through hordes of tourists. Imagine strolling leisurely through the ancient streets of the city, visiting iconic landmarks like Pompeii or Mount Vesuvius, and ending your day with a world-famous Neapolitan pizza!
The city’s traditional festivals like Maggio dei Monumenti in May and Piedigrotta in September add an extra touch of magic to your visit.
Best things to do in Naples
There are many things to do in Naples and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Naples:
From Naples: Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi Full-Day Tour
Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Amalfi Coast with a comprehensive day trip covering Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. Explore the quaint lanes of these holiday towns and appreciate the breathtaking scenery en route. Indulge in boutique shopping, savor limoncello, and relish a light midday meal on this unforgettable leisurely day. Price: $100. More info.
Capri All Inclusive Boat Tour and City Visit
Embark on an incredible journey to explore the most renowned island in the Mediterranean. Uncover its hidden gems including caves, secluded bays, cliffs, and the celebrated Faraglioni stacks. Experience all the wonders that have made Capri a global attraction. Take a dip at the most picturesque locations and enjoy numerous toasts and aperitifs. Price: $197. More info.
From Naples: Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour
Embark on a day journey with a vehicle or coach to the site where Mount Vesuvius unleashed its fury, submerging Pompeii under a layer of searing ash. Accompanied by a certified guide, tour the remnants of this UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been astonishingly preserved for nearly two millennia. Price: $105. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Naples
As a closing note, let’s summarize this travel guide. We covered the best areas of Naples, so you can decide which part of town you want to stay in.
Top 5 areas to stay in Naples
- Centro Storico
- Quartieri Spagnoli
- Lungomare
- Vomero
- Posillipo
As you have seen in this article, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Naples is important. Whether you stay in Centro Storico, Quartieri Spagnoli, Lungomare, Vomero or Posillipo, all those neighborhoods are great areas for your stay.
When deliberating your stay in Naples, several factors may come into play. The ambiance of the area, whether your journey to this magnificent city is prompted by business or pleasure, and who you’re traveling with family or friends. Also important is how close you’ll be to the attractions that spark your interest.
Regardless of these variables, one thing remains certain – a fantastic time awaits you during your stay in Naples!
Naples overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | Medium |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $70 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $130 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $280 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | Centro Storico |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Posillipo |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Grand Hotel Vesuvio |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | Artemisia Domus |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Vomero High Hotel |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | Ostello Bello Napoli |
More Naples tips
Get to know the city even better by reading our other articles about Naples:
