Planning a trip through Southern Italy? There’s a good chance your journey will include a stopover in Naples, the capital of the Campania region. If you’re looking to extend your time in this interesting port city, coming to grips with where to stay in Naples, Italy, is a must.
As Italy’s third-largest city, Naples is jam-packed with interesting areas and neighborhoods. Most tourists start at Centro Storico, the historic centre that’s home to many of the city’s top historical sites, attractions, and many of the best hotels in Naples. Outside of the Old Town, other cool districts await, including upscale Chiaia, Plebiscito, and Quartieri Spagnoli.
Ready to start your hotel search? Find your perfect accommodations with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Naples, Italy!
Best places to stay in Naples, Italy
Naples sits on the Bay of Naples near Mount Vesuvius. It’s just a two-hour bus ride from Pompeii and a few hours south of Rome, making it a great choice for a day trip or short getaway.
Tourists tend to flock to the Centro Storico, the historic centre of Naples, also known as Old Town. The port area is another popular spot with lots of ancient history to take in.
The older parts of the city include top attractions, like Naples Cathedral and other historic sites. Along the cobblestone streets lined with old architecture, you’ll also find plenty of charming restaurants with outdoor seating.
To the north and west of the bay, Naples sprawls out into several neighbourhoods and districts. It includes a mixture of residential streets, college campuses, commercial strips, and industrial parks.
The best areas to stay in Naples are:
Centro Storico (Historic Centre)
✓ Best area to stay in Naples for history-buffs and culture lovers
If you only have one day in Naples, stay in the historic heart of the city: Centro Storico. The historic centre of Naples contains most of the city’s main historical sites and many of its top tourist attractions.
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Centro Storico is one of the largest old town districts in Europe, spanning several kilometres and containing hundreds of restaurants and small shops. It’s not the biggest shopping destination in Naples, but it has a unique collection of boutiques with original items you won’t find elsewhere.
The area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site for over 20 years due to the abundance of old buildings. As you walk the narrow stone streets, you’ll pass carefully preserved medieval houses and centuries-old churches. Within a short walk, you can visit the Church of Santa Chiara and Naples Cathedral.
A trip to the grand Naples Cathedral (Duomo) is often the first stop for visitors. Built in the 13th century, the old building contains priceless works from famous Italian and French masters.
You also need to take a stroll on Via San Gregorio Armeno. This festive street is packed with vendors selling nativity scenes and nativity-related souvenirs.
If you grow tired of touring the historic sites, the beach is just a short trip away.
Attractions in & around Historic Centre: Naples Duomo, Church of Santa Chiara, Via San Gregorio Armeno, MADRE Contemporary Art Museum, Roman Baths
Recommended hotels
Due to the location, some of the oldest and best hotels in Naples are found in the historic centre. In fact, the area includes several hotels housed inside 18th-century buildings. You’ll also find boutique-style hotels and business hotels covering every price range.
- Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel: This highly rated boutique hotel is a short walk from Piazza Bellini and the National Archeological Museum. It offers luxurious suites with spacious rooms, lofts, and urban décor. The multilingual staff is also incredibly helpful, providing directions or arranging rides.
- Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments: Located inside a 16th-century building, this small hotel has unique rooms with modern design elements that contrast the exterior. Enjoy a filling breakfast buffet each morning, with scrambled eggs, bacon, and mozzarella cheese.
- Il Taschino Suite: The outdoorsy atmosphere of this affordable little hotel should appeal to budget-conscious travellers. It’s a quaint hotel with friendly staff and lots of amenities. Some of the rooms feature private terraces that overlook the historic centre.
- Albergo Palazzo Decumani: Located a few dozen metres from Spaccanapoli, this hotel has a great location, marble stairway, and parquet flooring. It’s a luxurious place to stay with decent prices and free breakfast.
Port of Naples
✓ Top-rated neighbourhood to stay in Naples for day-tripping and local cuisine
The Port of Naples is just south of the historic centre and the Spanish Quarters, making it easy to check items off your Naples itinerary. The bustling port teems with activity, especially during the early morning hours.
The Port of Naples contains fewer historic buildings and less of the old-world charm found in the historic centre and parts of Chiaia, but has its own highlights. The area offers some of the best restaurants in the region, serving fresh seafood and large pizzas.
As most of the neighbourhoods border the port, it’s one of the more convenient areas to stay in Naples. It’s a short walk to the nearby historic churches and buildings in Santa Lucia, the Spanish Quarters, and the historic centre.
If you’re arriving in Naples from the sea or visiting for a day trip, the Port area an easy place to stay. Most boats and ferries arrive at the pier near the Palace of the Immacolatella, located blocks from the Old Town.
At least half a dozen museums are also found within a few blocks of the sea. History buffs and amateur archeologists should enjoy this part of the city.
Attractions in & around Port of Naples: Palace of the Immacolatella, Paleontology Museum, Cappella Sansevero Museum, Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro, Museum of Contemporary Art
Recommended hotels
The Port of Naples has a variety of hotels to help make your trip more enjoyable, including several options with views of the sea or the historic streets. No matter where you stay, getting around this part of the city is easy.
- La Ciliegina Lifestyle Hotel: The rooftop terrace is just one of the highlights of this charming boutique hotel. It has beautifully decorated rooms covered in white linen that feature lots of natural light. It’s also a short walk from Nuovo Castle.
- Napoli Svelata: This budget hotel has modest accommodations, but a great location and views of the city. It’s also a short walk from some of the historic sites. The hotel was recently renovated and offers comfortable beds. While it’s not the most stylish place to stay, it’s affordable and convenient.
- Fly Boutique Hotel: Located just a few steps from the waterfront, this small boutique-style hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with air conditioning and city views. If you need help planning your itinerary, the staff are always available to provide recommendations.
Chiaia
✓ Best place to stay in Naples for luxury travellers seeking high-end shopping
The upscale neighbourhood of Chiaia is further from the historic centre, but has its own attractions, including the city’s best shopping. The streets are flanked by rows of fashion stores and boutiques selling designer clothes.
While you can find big names, such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Armani, the area also contains many independent stores. If you’re searching for a tailored Italian suit, Chiaia has some of the best options.
Along with high-end fashion, the area is known for its antiques. As you pass clothing shops, you’ll occasionally find a used bookstore or small shop selling old and rare items.
In the evening, take a stroll along Villa Comunale. Built over 200 years ago, the former royal garden is now a public park located near the waterfront.
As the hippest neighbourhood in Naples, Chiaia is also the place to go if you want to sit in front of a trendy coffee house and watch people walk by or visit an independent art gallery.
Chiaia is a little further from the busiest streets in Naples, giving you some peace and quiet compared to the historic centre or port area.
Attractions in & around Chiaia: Villa Comunale, Funicular Ride, Anton Dohrn Aquarium, Lungomare Caracciolo, Pignatelli Museum, Church of Santa Maria in Portico
Recommended hotels
As an upscale neighbourhood, Chiaia contains a few of the best hotels in Naples, with several four-star and five-star options. It’s a luxurious part of the city to stay in. Expect to pay premium prices for rooms with sea views and great locations.
- Palazzo Alabardieri: This luxurious hotel boasts a great location and elegant furnishings. The rooms and lobby feature tasteful décor. It also has its own onsite bar and breakfast buffet. As with many of the hotels in the region, breakfast comes with Campania mozzarella and eggs.
- Pinto Storey Hotel: Located in a historic building on the corner of a prominent street, this mid-range hotel has a limited number of rooms. It’s also conveniently located halfway between the seafront promenade and the historic centre of Naples.
- Hotel Plebiscito Aparthotel: If you’re concerned about the cost of accommodations, check out the rates at this boutique hotel. It’s one of the more affordable options and has smaller rooms, but also provides convenient access to nearby attractions, including the Bourbon Tunnel and Piazza Plebiscito.
Plebiscito
✓ Recommended area in Naples for families and street food
Plebiscito is a solid choice for where to stay in Naples for those wanting to get away from the busy streets of the historic centre. The top Naples attractions are still nearby, but you’ll also have access to quieter residential areas.
Plebiscito itself doesn’t have a lot to do. Luckily, it’s surrounded by the sea, the historic centre, and the Spanish Quarters.
The nearby Spanish Quarters were once the most dangerous part of the city. The area is now a family-friendly neighbourhood with a strong Spanish influence. Feast at tapas bars and learn to dance the flamenco.
After filling up on Spanish treats, spend an afternoon at the beach or explore the historic streets in the centre of the city. Several of the hotels in the area are a short walk from Piazza del Plebiscito. The main public square in the neighbourhood is a stopping point on your way to the old town.
It’s the largest public square in the city and lined with columns. In the centre stands the Basilica of San Francesco da Paola, designed to resemble the Pantheon in Rome. It’s also the site of the Royal Palace.
Attractions in & around Plebiscito: Castel Nuovo, Royal Palace, Piazza del Plebiscito, Basilica of San Francesco da Paola, Molosiglio Gardens, San Carlo Theatre
Recommended hotels
You’ll find a mix of accommodations in Plebiscito, including hostels, apartments, and hotels. Several of the properties feature views of the main public square while some of the more affordable options are found on the outskirts of the neighbourhood.
- NapoliMia Hotel: Located inside a historic building, this mid-range hotel is in the centre of the Plebiscito district. Each room has different decor and furnishings, providing you with an eclectic place to stay. Several of the rooms also have private balconies that look out over the city.
- Caruso Place Boutique & Wellness Suites: This four-star hotel is a five-minute walk from the San Carlo Theater. It’s another great location and offers shuttles to and from the train station or harbour. The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable while the lobby has its own bar and balconies.
- Hotel Il Convento: Housed inside a 17th-century building, this boutique hotel is in a quieter part of the neighbourhood. Relax after a long day of sightseeing in your peaceful room with all the amenities you need to feel at home. It’s also an affordable place to stay.
- Barbarella Suite: This modern hotel has rooms equipped with seating areas, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. It’s a comfortable place to stay and an eight-minute walk from Maschio Angioino. It’s also a few steps from the train station, providing convenient access to the rest of the city.
