Neapolitan Dreams: A Feast for the Senses
Board a fast train from Rome to Naples and experience one of Italy's most treasured cities. Nestled on Southern Italy's coast, Naples offers scenic views, a vibrant historic district, and renowned art and antiquities museums—making it an essential destination. From its rooftops to its winding alleys and nameless streets, Naples delivers a sensory-rich coastal experience like nothing else.
Rooftops, Naples, Italy
Naples National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli, or MANN) has world-famous status. MANN houses a vast collection of objects from antiquity, with the first two floors devoted mainly to the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum—both destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. These floors showcase an impressive array of frescoes and mosaics.
Objects from Pompeii and Herculaneum
Notable highlights from Pompeii include a mosaic from the House of the Faun depicting Alexander the Great fighting the Persians, and a mosaic by Dioskurides (a famous stamp and cameo carver from Rome) from Cicero's villa showing a group of itinerant musicians. You'll also find portraits, such as those of the wealthy banker Cecilius Giocondus, as well as furniture and statues from the Temple of Isis in Pompeii and the papyrus scrolls from Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum.
Representations of the Destruction
The museum brings the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum to life through computer animations, photographs, and film footage. You can view casts of people who tried to save their belongings during the eruption, and explore countless rooms filled with sculptures, bronze works, glass, and ceramics.
Additional Collections
Beyond Pompeii and Herculaneum, the museum houses the Farnese Collection, discovered during 16th-century excavations of the Baths of Caracalla in Rome. The most famous piece is the Farnese Bull, one of the best-preserved statues from the Roman era. The museum also features an extensive jewelry collection, including the world's largest cameo, and a special section on prehistory. History enthusiasts shouldn't miss this essential Naples destination.
Naples National Archaeological Museum Tickets
Bus Tours - historic & panoramic
For bus tours and scenic routes in Naples, Italy, the popular choice is the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off open-top bus, offering two lines (Art & Gulf Views) with audio guides covering key sights like Parco Virgiliano. The waterfront tour provides options for longer regional trips to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii. For a different city experience, consider local trolley tours, according to Italy Museum, GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor, and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. It's a great way to enjoy panoramic coastal views and get a sense of the city's layout—not to mention a chance to sit down and rest your feet if you've been exploring Italy on foot.
Note: Open-top double-decker buses feature audio guides in multiple languages and the flexibility to hop on and off throughout the day
Pizza Picks - in the historic district
Dinner at Sorbillo in Naples, Italy - near the port, in the historic district.
The birthplace of pizza, Naples is awash with unbeatable pizzerias. Don't want to miss out on the perfect pie? Here are some suggestions for exceptional pizza near the port and in the historic district, with options even for those who are gluten-free or dairy-sensitive:
L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele: Famous globally (hello, Eat, Pray, Love!), they keep it simple with just Margherita and Marinara pizzas, focusing on quality ingredients and traditional methods
Gino e Toto Sorbillo: A must-visit for incredibly thin, airy crusts and fresh, organic toppings; another iconic Sorbillo family spot.
Pizzeria Brandi: The legendary spot where the Margherita pizza was supposedly invented for Queen Margherita in 1889, a piece of history
Pizzeria Pellone: A no-frills, beloved spot in the historic district, famous for its Margherita and Anthony Bourdain's endorsement.
Pro-Tips for Port Visitors:
Location: These famous pizzerias are generally in the historic center (Centro Storico), a short taxi or a pleasant walk from the cruise terminal.
Cash: Many traditional places like Da Michele prefer or only accept cash, so have Euros ready.
Lines: Be prepared for queues, especially at peak times; it's part of the authentic Naples experience!.
