Our guide on the most common mistakes to avoid in Naples and how to avoid them.
Naples, Italy, is a city of contrasts — vibrant, chaotic, historical, and full of character. Known for its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, Naples offers a truly authentic Italian experience.
However, there are common mistakes many travelers make when visiting this unique city. Here’s a guide to the most frequent mistakes to avoid in Naples, and how to make the most of your visit.
Naples is a city that offers an authentic Italian experience, filled with history, incredible food, and lively culture. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to navigate the city more easily, enjoy its hidden gems, and appreciate all that Naples has to offer. Whether you’re savoring the world’s best pizza or exploring ancient Roman ruins, Naples promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.
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Mistakes to Avoid in Naples
1. Only Visiting Naples as a Gateway to Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast
Mistake:
Many tourists treat Naples as a transit hub for visiting nearby attractions like Pompeii, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast, missing out on the city’s own rich history, culture, and food.
How to Avoid It:
Dedicate Time to Explore Naples: Naples is full of treasures, from the UNESCO-listed Centro Storico (historic center) to world-class museums like the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, which houses incredible Roman artifacts and treasures from Pompeii.
Explore the Underground City: Visit Napoli Sotterranea, the fascinating underground city of tunnels, catacombs, and ancient Roman aqueducts.
Wander Spaccanapoli: Take time to explore this narrow, historic street that cuts through the heart of Naples, with its churches, shops, and vibrant street life.
Tip: Stay at least two full days to get a real taste of Naples beyond the tourist routes.
2. Not Being Prepared for Naples’ Chaotic Traffic
Mistake:
Underestimating the chaos of Naples’ traffic. The city is known for its aggressive drivers, motorbikes weaving through traffic, and a lack of adherence to traffic rules.
How to Avoid It:
Use Public Transport: Naples has a reliable public transport system, including metro lines and buses. It’s easier (and much less stressful) than navigating the streets by car.
Walk in the Historic Center: The best way to explore the central areas is on foot. Narrow streets like Spaccanapoli are best experienced walking, where you can soak in the street life.
Be Alert: If you’re walking, always be cautious when crossing streets, even at crosswalks. Drivers often don’t stop, so make sure it’s clear before you cross.
Tip: Avoid renting a car if you’re staying in the city. If you do drive, park in secure garages to avoid parking hassles and potential fines.
3. Ignoring Safety Concerns
Mistake:
Although Naples is generally safe for tourists, some areas are known for petty crime like pickpocketing and scams, particularly in crowded places and touristy areas.
How to Avoid It:
Stay Vigilant: Be mindful of your belongings in busy areas like Piazza Garibaldi, Via Toledo, and public transport stations. Use anti-theft bags or wear money belts.
Avoid Flashing Valuables: Refrain from openly showing expensive jewelry, watches, or large amounts of cash.
Stick to Well-Trodden Paths at Night: While Naples has an exciting nightlife, it’s best to avoid wandering alone in poorly lit, unfamiliar areas late at night.
Tip: The Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli) is vibrant but can be tricky at night. Stick to well-known streets and visit with caution after dark.
4. Not Trying Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Mistake:
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, yet some visitors fall into the trap of eating at touristy spots, missing out on the true Neapolitan pizza experience.
How to Avoid It:
Visit a Traditional Pizzeria: Head to authentic pizzerias like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Sorbillo, or Di Matteo.
These places are famed for their simple, delicious Neapolitan pizza, using fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Order a Margherita or Marinara: Stick to the traditional Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) or Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil). These pizzas are classics for a reason — simplicity and flavor.
Don’t Expect Toppings: Neapolitan pizza is all about simplicity. Avoid ordering elaborate toppings or expecting stuffed crusts, as these are not part of the traditional experience.
Tip: Pizza in Naples is inexpensive, with many famous pizzerias offering delicious pies for under €10.
5. Relying Solely on English
Mistake:
Expecting everyone to speak English. While many people in tourist areas understand basic English, it’s less common in local neighborhoods, smaller restaurants, or markets.
How to Avoid It:
Learn Basic Italian Phrases: Knowing a few Italian phrases will go a long way. Phrases like “Ciao” (Hello), “Grazie” (Thank you), and “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?) are helpful.
Use Translation Apps: If you don’t speak Italian, using a translation app like Google Translate can help with menus, directions, and simple conversations.
Tip: Italians appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words.
6. Forgetting to Validate Public Transport Tickets
Mistake:
Forgetting to validate your train, metro, or bus ticket is a common mistake and can lead to fines, as many tourists are unaware of this requirement.
How to Avoid It:
Always Validate Tickets: When using public transportation (including regional trains to places like Pompeii or Sorrento), validate your ticket at the yellow or green machines before boarding. On buses, there are small validation boxes as you enter.
Purchase Tickets in Advance: Tickets aren’t sold on most buses and trams. Purchase them from kiosks or stations before boarding.
Tip: Keep your validated ticket handy as ticket inspectors frequently check passengers.
7. Rushing Through the Historical Sites
Mistake:
Trying to rush through Naples’ rich historical sites without giving them the time they deserve. The city’s layers of history require a more leisurely approach.
How to Avoid It:
Spend Time in the Museums: The Naples National Archaeological Museum holds an incredible collection of ancient Roman and Greek artifacts, including items from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Give yourself at least 2-3 hours here.
Don’t Miss Naples’ Churches: Visit Cappella Sansevero to see the breathtaking “Veiled Christ” sculpture, and explore Naples Cathedral (Duomo) to learn about the city’s religious history.
Explore the Underground: Naples’ Catacombs of San Gennaro and Napoli Sotterranea offer a fascinating look at the city’s hidden history.
Tip: Book guided tours for sites like Pompeii or the Naples Underground to gain deeper insight into the city’s history.
8. Expecting the Same Experience as Rome or Florence
Mistake:
Expecting Naples to be like other popular Italian cities, such as Rome or Florence, with their polished, tourist-friendly atmospheres. Naples is grittier, more chaotic, and authentic in a different way.
How to Avoid It:
Embrace the Chaos: Naples is raw, vibrant, and full of life. Rather than compare it to Rome or Florence, appreciate its energy, street art, and the mixture of cultures that make it unique.
Explore Hidden Gems: Seek out Naples’ quieter gems, like the Palazzo Reale di Napoli or the Monastery of Santa Chiara, where you can escape the bustle.
Tip: Naples is less about perfect streets and more about the authentic Italian experience, from its bustling markets to its lively street scenes.
9. Not Planning Ahead for Day Trips
Mistake:
Many visitors arrive in Naples planning to visit Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, or the Amalfi Coast, but without properly planning for transport and crowds, they end up wasting time or missing out.
How to Avoid It:
Plan Day Trips in Advance: If you’re visiting Pompeii or Herculaneum, take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to the sites. It’s affordable and relatively easy, but trains can be crowded during peak times.
Arrive Early to Popular Destinations: For popular destinations like Pompeii or Capri, arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Consider Tours for Convenience: If you prefer convenience, book a guided tour that includes transport, entrance fees, and expert commentary. This can save time and stress.
Tip: For the Amalfi Coast, consider taking a ferry or hiring a driver instead of the crowded and winding bus routes.
10. Skipping the Local Markets
Mistake:
Sticking to touristy areas for shopping or dining and missing out on Naples’ lively local markets, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and authentic street food.
How to Avoid It:
Visit Local Markets: Explore Mercato di Porta Nolana or Mercato di Pignasecca, where you’ll find fresh seafood, local produce, and delicious street food like sfogliatella or arancini.
Try Street Food: Naples is famous for its street food. Don’t miss cuoppo, a cone filled with fried seafood, or pizza a portafoglio, a smaller, folded version of the classic Neapolitan pizza, perfect for eating on the go.
Tip: These markets offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in daily Neapolitan life while enjoying the city’s culinary offerings.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.