Where to Stay in Naples: Best Areas & Hotels

Palatial yet gritty, gorgeous, and chaotic, Naples is undoubtedly like no other place in Italy. Known for its rich cultural heritage, mouthwatering cuisine, hectic lifestyle, and iconic landmarks like Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, Naples has something for everyone. Its bustling streets, stunning coastline, and irresistible charm make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience Southern Italy. In this article, we’ll uncover the best areas to stay in Naples.

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Capital of the southern region of Campania, Naples is home to fascinating attractions such as Castel dell’Ovo, the Royal Palace of Naples, and the awe-inspiring underground tunnels of Napoli Sotterranea. What’s more, Naples is the birthplace of pizza – making it the ideal destination for food enthusiasts! The city’s position as the gateway to Italy’s south means it has a strong tourist industry. Naples offers various accommodation options ranging from the most luxurious properties to budget-friendly hotels and pensions.

In addition to its historical sites and culinary delights, Naples has a lively atmosphere that is hard to put into words. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s art scene by exploring the countless museums and galleries or simply strolling through its vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Naples has an undeniable allure that keeps travelers coming back for more.

So why wait? Keep reading this guide to uncover more about the fantastic city and find the best area to stay in Naples and your ideal accommodation in this enchanting Italian gem.

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Accommodation Options in Naples, Italy

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What’s the Best Area to Stay in Naples, Italy?

Home to the city’s main attractions, such as Underground Naples, the Church of Santa Chiara, Sansevero Chapel Museum, and the Castel Nuovo, Centro Storico is the best district to stay in Naples, particularly if it’s your first time visiting the city. The Historic City Center is also where some of the best-rated hotels in Naples can be found.

Find available accommodation in Naples Old Town.

Best Hotels in Centro Storico

• Best 5-star hotel: Santa Chiara Boutique Hotel
• Best 4-star hotel: Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments
• Best 3-star hotel: Hotel Nunù
• Best budget hotel: Hotel Nettuno
• Best B&B: Ovo – Slow Travel
• Best tourist apartments: Duomo Platinum Apartments
• Best hostel: Tric Trac Hostel

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Where to Stay in Naples for Sightseeing

As mentioned above, the City Center is the best location to stay in Naples. That said, there are many more areas offering different vibes and sights. These are some of the best districts to stay in Naples:

• Chiaia is known for its elegant streets and upscale boutiques, making it one of the best areas to stay in Naples for shopping and strolling. The vibrant nightlife also makes it an appealing choice for travelers looking to enjoy a fun night out. Top properties in this area include Prestige Rooms Chiaia and the Grand Hotel Parker’s.
• Centro Storico is one of the top areas to stay in the city. This district is known for its narrow streets, beautiful churches, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers many accommodations, such as UNAHOTELS Napoli and Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments.
• The Plebiscito & Quartieri Spagnoli area offers Napoleonic architecture and traditional Neapolitan narrow streets. This central location is perfect for those interested in exploring Naples’ historical sites, such as Palazzo Reale, Galleria Umberto I, and the San Carlo Theatre. The area is also known for its vibrant street life and delicious pizzerias. Some of the best-rated hotels here include Hotel Il Convento and Hotel Matilde.
• As one of the most scenic areas in Naples, Lungomare Caracciolo boasts a stunning waterfront promenade along the Bay of Naples. With attractions like Castel dell’Ovo nearby, staying in this area allows easy access to natural and historical sites. A great hotel in this area is the Eurostars Hotel Excelsior.
• Known for its panoramic vistas atop one of Naples’ hills, Vomero offers impressive views and a residential feel. The area is home to the famous medieval monastery Certosa di San Martino, the vibrant shopping street Via Scarlatti, and many stylish properties such as Hotel Cimarosa.
• Staying near Napoli Centrale Station is a good and budget-friendly choice with easy access to public transportation. Its central location makes exploring Naples’ historic sites easy on foot. Great hotels in the area include the Starhotels Terminus and Hotel Bella Napoli.

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Where to Stay in Naples: District by District

The Historic Center of Naples, is an ideal place to stay and experience the rich history and culture of the city. Here, you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, churches, and museums.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Rich historical heritage
• Vibrant cultural scene
• Authentic Neapolitan atmosphere
• Close proximity to major attractions
• Charming cobblestone streets
• Picturesque piazzas and squares
• Variety of dining options
• Shopping opportunities
• Architectural beauty
• Easy access to public transportation

The old center of Naples is the city’s oldest historical area. It holds nearly three thousand years of history and is the largest in Italy and one of the largest in Europe.

The main things to see in Centro Storico include historic squares, over 200 churches, frescoes, top museums, underground tours, Greco-Roman ruins, underground art stations, traditional Neapolitan streets, and a genuine local atmosphere.

One of the main attractions in Centro Storico is the Naples Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Napoli. Built in the 13th century, it houses the Shrine of the Blood of San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples. Other noteworthy attractions include San Lorenzo Maggiore, a medieval church with an underground archaeological area, and Spaccanapoli, a long street that cuts through the heart of the historical center.

Another must-visit site is the San Severo Chapel, renowned for its famous Veiled Christ sculpture. History enthusiasts will find the Naples National Archaeological Museum intriguing, as it houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts.

One of the best ways to explore Centro Storico is by foot. The neighborhood is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions and landmarks just a short distance apart. However, while navigating the narrow streets of Centro Storico can be exciting, it can also be challenging.

Metro Line 1 conveniently passes through the Centro Storico, with stops at stations such as Dante, Municipio, Toledo, Cavour, and Museo. Naples also has an extensive bus network that serves Centro Storico. Various bus lines pass through or near the neighborhood.

Best Hotels in Napoli Centro Storico

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The Plebiscito and Quartieri Spagnoli area is considered one of the best areas to stay in Naples. Located towards west of the city center, this area offers a unique charm and ambiance.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Royal Palace
• Proximity to historic sites
• Authentic Neapolitan cuisine
• Vibrant street art scene
• Galleria Umberto I
• Teatro di San Carlo
• Charming cafes and gelaterias
• Easy access to public transportation
• All kinds of hotels

Piazza del Plebiscito is a famous square in Naples. Named in honor of the 1860 referendum, which determined the annexation of the Kingdom of Naples to the Kingdom of Italy, it’s surrounded by iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace, San Francesco di Paola church, and the beautiful Galleria Umberto I.

The nearby Quartieri Spagnoli, or Spanish Quarters, get their name from the Spanish soldiers who settled in the area during the 16th century. It is characterized by narrow and winding streets, creating a maze-like atmosphere that is fascinating to explore.

One of the main attractions here is the Santa Chiara Monastery. This historical site dates back to the 14th century and features an impressive church, cloister, and beautiful gardens.

The Plebiscito & Quartieri Spagnoli area offers a vibrant atmosphere and nightlife. The streets come alive in the evening with numerous bars, traditional taverns, and live music venues. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Neapolitan cuisine and some of the best pizzas in the city.

Via Toledo is one of the most famous streets in Naples, Italy. The street runs from Piazza Dante to Piazza Plebiscito, stretching for about one kilometer. Along Via Toledo, one can find many shops, cafes, and historical buildings.

Transportation options are readily available in the area. Toledo Station provides easy access to the rest of the city thanks to metro Line 1, which connects major landmarks and transportation hubs.

Best Hotels in Plebiscito & Quartieri Spagnoli

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Chiaia provides a mix of sophistication and vibrancy to your Neapolitan experience.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Luxurious accommodations
• Villa Comunale Park
• PAN Palazzo delle Arti Napoli
• Shopping on Via dei Mille and Via Chiaia
• Delicious dining options
• Castel dell’Ovo and Borgo Marinari
• Upscale nightlife

Chiaia is a well-regarded district situated in Naples, Italy. It occupies the southwestern part of the city, bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea. The district offers noteworthy historical and cultural attractions and is an ideal location to stay in Naples.

Chiaia is home to several must-see attractions. Among these is Villa Pignatelli, a neoclassical building constructed in the early 1800s and now a museum showcasing a collection of antique carriages. Other attractions include Piazza dei Martiri, a central square home to the Martyrs’ obelisk, and Castel dell’Ovo, a former fortress prominently standing at the seaside edge of the Borgo Marinari area.

In addition to these historic sites and monuments, visitors will appreciate Chiaia’s vibrant arts scene. The Palazzo delle Arti Napoli (PAN) showcases contemporary art exhibits and installations from established and emerging artists. Meanwhile, Teatro Sannazaro offers theatrical performances.

Nightlife in Chiaia is lively and refined due to its upscale bars and lounges catering to a sophisticated clientele.

Transportation options within Chiaia consist mainly of buses; however, riding the metro can also be convenient for getting around Naples from Chiaia. Popular stations include Toledo and Piazza Amedeo.

Chiaia presents various hotel options, from luxurious five-star accommodations to quaint boutique hotels.

Best Hotels in Chiaia

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Known for its scenic views of the surrounding city and coastline, Vomero is considered one of the best areas to stay in Naples.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Upscale atmosphere
• Castel Sant’Elmo historic fortress
• Panoramic views
• San Martino Museum and Monastery
• Via Scarlatti
• Connected by funicular
• Villa Floridiana Park

Vomero is a hilltop district west of the historic city center and north of Chiaia.

One notable attraction in Vomero is the 14th-century Castel Sant’Elmo, a historic fortress atop Mount Echia. The fortress offers panoramic views of Naples and houses a museum showcasing military history. Another point of interest is Villa Floridiana, a 19th-century villa surrounded by lush gardens. The villa contains the National Museum of Ceramics Duca di Martina, where visitors can admire an extensive ceramics and decorative arts collection.

The pedestrian area along Vias Luca Giordano and Scarlatti hosts various shops, cafes, and restaurants. In addition, Parco della Villa Floridiana provides open green spaces ideal for relaxation or picnics.

As for transportation options in Vomero, there are three funicular railway lines: Funicolare Centrale, Funicolare di Chiaia, and Funicolare di Montesanto. These lines connect Vomero to other parts of Naples conveniently while offering picturesque views during transit. Furthermore, Line 1 of Naples Metro serves Vomero with stations like Vanvitelli and Quattro Giornate.

Best Hotels in Vomero

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Ideally located near the heart of the city, Napoli Centrale offers the widest variety of budget accommodation in Naples.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Affordable accommodations
• Proximity to main attractions
• Easy transportation
• Shopping opportunities
• Multicultural environment
• Convenient base for day trips
• Best area for backpackers & travelers on a budget

Napoli Centrale Station is a railway terminal located on Piazza Garibaldi, east of the city’s historic center. Opened in 1867, it is crucial in connecting Naples to different parts of Italy and Europe. Travelers often stay near Napoli Centrale due to its excellent transport links and easy access to iconic sites.

Napoli Centrale offers various types of trains, including intercity and regional trains, high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo, and the Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii and Sorrento. Staying near this station offers fantastic opportunities for day trips and convenience for those traveling through Italy.

Attractions near Napoli Centrale Station include the Piazza Garibaldi, a busy square, and Porta Capuana, an ancient city gate that dates back to 1484. Visitors can also explore Castel Capuano, a well-preserved medieval fortress completed in 1484 on orders from King Ferdinand I of Naples.

The station links to two metro lines. Linea 1, with trains towards Piscinola or Dante, and Linea 2, towards Pozzuoli or Gianturco, provide access to other parts of Naples.

Best Hotels in the Central Station District

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Known for its scenic coastal views, Lungomare Caracciolo is a chic and lively area to stay in Naples.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Breathtaking seaviews
• Proximity to historical attractions
• Easy Access to public transportation
• Variety of dining options
• Upscale accommodation
• Vibrant nightlife scene
• Family-friendly activities
• Close to ferry services

Lungomare Caracciolo is a famous seaside promenade area in Naples. Positioned along the city’s coastline, this seafront promenade stretches for approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 mi) and offers an attractive setting.

The origins of Lungomare Caracciolo date back to the 19th century when it was developed as part of Naples’ urban expansion plans. This development aimed to modernize the city, and by extension, the promenade became a popular destination due to its attractive location near the water and several historic neighborhoods.

Lungomare Caracciolo features numerous attractions. The promenade is home to Castel dell’Ovo, a medieval fortress constructed on the Megaride islet. In addition to offering panoramic views of the city, this fortress also houses a small museum. Villa Comunale Park, another attraction along Lungomare Caracciolo, features lush gardens for strolls surrounded by greenery.

The Museo del Mare di Napoli (Naples Sea Museum) focuses on maritime history and showcases various exhibits related to shipbuilding and naval themes.

Mergellina railway station, situated nearby, is serviced by regional trains connecting Naples with other parts of Italy. The Mergellina subway station on Line 6 of the Naples Metro also provides efficient underground transportation.

Best Hotels in Lungomare Caracciolo

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The Port of Naples is a prime location for travelers seeking to explore the beautiful islands and Amalfi Coast.

Why is this the best area to stay in Naples, Italy:
• Relatively central
• Picturesque waterfront views
• Varied accommodation choices
• Easy access to nearby islands and the Amalfi Coast
• Best area for cruises

The Port of Naples is a convenient area to stay in Naples.

One of the main reasons for its appeal as a place to stay is its connection to the vibrant islands around Naples, such as Capri, Ischia, and Procida. The port offers regular ferry services to these beautiful destinations. Major ferry operators like Alilauro, Caremar, and Snav provide convenient routes while ensuring a comfortable experience.

The Port of Naples also offers cruise passengers an accessible entry point into the city. It has several dedicated piers specifically designed to accommodate large cruise ships. Passengers on Mediterranean cruises can benefit from staying in this area due to its convenience.

The area offers several points of interest, like Castel Nuovo, an iconic medieval castle Plebiscito Square, Galleria Umberto I, Teatro di San Carlo, and Palazzo Reale di Napoli.

Regarding transportation options, visitors staying in this area can quickly access Line 1 and Line 6 subway stations—Municipio and Università—as well as buses connecting various parts of the city.

Best Hotels near the Port of Naples

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If you’re looking for breathtaking coastal views and luxurious accommodations, Posillipo is the perfect area to stay in Naples.

Posillipo is a residential neighborhood west of the city center. It covers an area extending from Mergellina up to Posillipo Hill. The area has been known since Roman times, as they built villas and monuments along the coastline. Today, it is recognized as one of Naples’ most attractive and prestigious residential areas.

One of Posillipo’s main attractions is Parco Virgiliano, a public park that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples, including landmarks such as the Sorrento Peninsula, Mount Vesuvius, and the nearby islands—the famous Capri, Ischia, and Procida. In addition to its stunning vistas, Parco Virgiliano features walking paths and recreational facilities.

Another important site within Posillipo is Gaiola Underwater Park. This marine protected area comprises two small islets near the shore: Gaiola Island and Vervece Rock. The park preserves a rich biodiversity of marine life, and Roman ruins submerged beneath the sea.

In terms of transportation, one can reach Posillipo via Mergellina train station located at the east end or through bus routes that connect major parts of Naples.

Best Hotels in Posillipo

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Home to the Mostra D’Oltremare exhibition center and Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, Fuorigrotta is a great option for conventions and football matches.

Fuorigrotta – Zona Fiera is a lively residential neighborhood situated near the exhibition center and the stadium, making it an ideal choice for visitors attending events or S.S.C. Napoli matches in Naples.

One prominent feature of Fuorigrotta is the Fiera di Napoli, an exhibition center that hosts numerous events, fairs, conventions, and concerts throughout the year. The center attracts many attendees drawn by varied events covering art, technology, and other areas.

Another major attraction in Fuorigrotta is the iconic Stadio Diego Armando Maradona (formerly known as Stadio San Paolo), which serves as the home stadium of the Napoli football team. With a seating capacity of over 60,000 spectators, it is Italy’s fourth-largest stadium.

Line 2 on the Naples Metro services most parts of Fuorigrotta. Primary stations include Mostra, Campi Flegrei, and Piazza Leopardi.

Best Hotels in Fuorigrotta

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Located just a short distance from Napoli Centrale Station, Centro Direzionale is home to many office buildings, hotels, and restaurants that cater to business travelers.

Centro Direzionale is known for its modern architecture and strategic positioning. Situated northeast of the city center, Centro Direzionale has established itself as an important business district since its development during the 1980s and 1990s.

Centro Direzionale has good transport connections. Line 1 of the Naples Metro has two nearby stations – Garibaldi at Piazza Garibaldi and Piscinola, with the latter being just a brief walk from Centro Direzionale. Furthermore, the tram system and city buses serve the area extensively, making it convenient for travelers to explore different parts of Naples.

Accommodation within Centro Direzionale mainly comprises mid-range and high-end hotels designed to cater to business travelers.

Best Hotels in Centro Direzionale

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Where to Stay in Naples: Useful Information

Naples offers travelers an extensive selection of accommodation possibilities. Known for its vibrant culture, architectural marvels, and numerous tourist attractions, finding the right accommodation in Naples can be vital in fully enjoying your trip.

Strategically choosing an area to stay is crucial for maximizing the potential of your visit. Likewise, it is important to note that Naples has multiple transportation options. Access to various parts of Naples is relatively convenient, with three metro lines (Line 1, Line 2, and Line 6), five regional train lines (Trenitalia), three funiculars, and numerous bus routes. Consequently, selecting accommodation near public transportation can significantly improve your mobility.

When searching for accommodations near transport links, Naples has two primary train stations: Napoli Centrale (central station) and Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (Garibaldi Square). Several hotels are within walking distance of these stations. Additionally, travelers interested in staying closer to the coast can find accommodations near Mergellina Station, which connects with the Napoli Metro Line 2.

When booking accommodations in Naples, it is important to note that pricing differs significantly based on location – historical centers and coastal apartments tend to fetch higher rates than inland properties. Smaller bed-and-breakfasts or local guesthouses may provide more affordable options than larger hotel chains.

Budget accommodations range from €30-€50 per night, while mid-range hotels tend to charge €50-€120 per night. Higher-end hotels may cost upward of €120 per night.

The peak tourist season runs from late May to September, leading to higher prices during this time. Conversely, more affordable rates can be found during the off-peak season, from November to March.

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Best Areas to Stay in Naples: Frequently Asked Questions

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