How to Enjoy a Day Near Naples: Best Activities and Places to Visit Near the Neapolitan City

Are you looking for a wonderful place in the world that has the capability to make you not only relax but also create unforgettable memories? What you need is an Italian adventure. And we have the perfect city; Italy’s queen of the south, Naples. This beautiful and historic destination knows how to make everyone feel safe and welcome. All travel tastes are satisfied, and you can indulge in amazing experiences within the city and on its outskirts. In this article, we’ll focus on how to enjoy a day near Naples, as there is a plethora of fun activities to do. 

Reaching Naples

By Train

The railway network in Italy is well-developed as it offers a transport option for getting from one major Italian city to another, including Naples, or to other European destinations. The railway station in Naples is called Napoli Centrale. 

By Coaches

Another means of public transport that you can use to reach Naples is by coaches. Again, the long-distance buses connect Naples to Italy and the rest of Europe. The main bus station in Naples is called Napoli Metropark. 

By Plane

There are several airports in Italy, but the one serving Naples is called Naples International Airport. Both domestic and international flights operate there, making it a popular choice for people who want to reach Naples from all around the world. 

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Getting to Naples International Airport

How to hire a car at Naples International Airport? 

Once you’ve landed in Naples, it is recommended that you hire a car so that you can explore the stunning city at your own pace. There are many car hire companies in the airport and off-site with many options for all car preferences and travel budgets. 

Where to hire a car at Naples International Airport?

1. Hertz – Hertz has a rental location at the airport arrivals hall. You can book compact cars to full-size SUVs. Hertz offers options like unlimited mileage, additional drivers at no cost, and child safety seats.
2. Avis – Avis has an airport rental counter in the arrivals hall. You can reserve anything from economy cars to luxury vehicles. Avis provides GPS navigation rentals and car seats.
3. Europcar – Europcar is located right at the airport terminal. You can hire small manual cars to large capacity vans for families and groups. They have add-ons like WiFi hotspots and snow chains.
4. Sixt – Sixt is located at Naples Airport with a large fleet of vehicles. They offer sports cars, convertibles, as well as standard sedans and SUVs. Perks include one-way rentals and complimentary additional drivers.
5. Maggiore – Maggiore provides car rental pickup right from the terminal building. You can select accessories like baby seats, GPS systems, and snow tires based on your travel needs.

You can effortlessly compare the available offers and book your preferred one online, securing free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. There are no hidden fees or unclear information to stress you out. Holiday Cars helps you save time and money.

What to Do to Enjoy a Day Near Naples

1. Pompeii

There’s no better way to start the day than by visiting the ancient smithy city of Pompeii. The outstanding archaeological site is about 25 kilometres from Naples with the Roman ruins providing invaluable insights into the past. 

2. Amalfi

A breathtaking coastal town that you shouldn’t miss is Amalfi. The gorgeous Amalfi Cathedral, the stunning views from the Amalfi Cemetery, and delectable meals at the town’s businesses are attractions you need to see. Ensure to explore the Amalfi Coast by car to discover the best beaches. 

3. Royal Palace of Caserta

In addition to ancient and glamorous destinations, you can also pay a visit to a gorgeous palace not far from Naples, the Royal Palace of Caserta. It follows the Baroque and Neoclassical styles as it was designed in the 18^th century. 

4. Mount Vesuvius

No trip near Naples is complete without visiting Mount Vesuvius, the infamous active volcano that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD. Located around 10 miles east of Naples, you can hike up to the crater rim of Vesuvius along a marked trail. It offers spectacular views of the Bay of Naples and a glimpse into the power and danger that still simmers below. For a less strenuous option, tour companies offer shuttle services to the top.

5. Herculaneum

While Pompeii draws bigger crowds, the nearby ruins of Herculaneum provide a more intimate and better-preserved look into roman originals history. This wealthy seaside town was also buried during the 79 AD volcanic eruption. Take a guided tour to walk down its former streets and see intricate mosaic tiles, carbonized furniture, ancient advertisements, and more. The ruins are much smaller than Pompeii but equally fascinating.

6. National Archaeological Museum

With one of the world’s finest collections of Greco-Roman artifacts, Naples’ National Archaeological Museum should be on every history buff’s itinerary. Highlights include elaborate mosaics from Pompeii, intricate bronze statuary, and treasure from temples and villas. Don’t miss the Secret Cabinet displaying ancient erotic art and phallic symbols that were once hidden from public view. Allow at least half a day to explore its vast halls.

7. Blue Grotto

See an underground wonder by taking a boat tour to the Blue Grotto sea cave on the coast near Anacapri. Sunlight passing through an underwater cavity creates an incredible blue glow. Tours only run when seas are calm enough to access the narrow entrance. You’ll need to transfer from a larger boat to a small rowboat that can squeeze through the hole into the grotto when you arrived. It’s tricky to coordinate depending on the conditions but well worth it to witness the magical blue light.

8. Capri Island

Hop on a ferry to explore beautiful Capri, a glamorous island dotted with luxury villas, chic shops, gourmet restaurants and magnificent coastal scenery. Take the chairlift up to Anacapri for sweeping views over the island and sea. Or wander through the lush gardens of Augustus, with flowered paths offering more panoramic vistas. End your visit by people-watching in La Piazzetta, Capri’s central plaza, before catching the ferry back.

9. National Park of Cilento

Stretching south along the coast from Salerno to Sapri, Parco Nazionale del Cilento is Italy’s second largest national park. With nearly 100 miles of breathtaking coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea backed by forested hills and mountains, it’s a nature lover’s pearl paradise. Stop to explore medieval hilltop villages, tour buffalo mozzarella farms, hike scenic trails to waterfalls, and unwind on empty sandy beaches. The incredible natural landscapes feel a world away from bustling Naples.

10. Paestum

At Paestum, discover some of Italy’s best preserved Greek temples, with three stunning Doric-style structures dating back 2,500 years. Unlike other ancient sites, the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Hera and Basilica of Hera still stand tall with massive columns intact, having never been buried by eruptions from Vesuvius. Wander the grassy grounds and on-site museum to admire their graceful architecture and see relics found nearby before enjoying views of the temples stretching to the sea.

With its treasure trove of archaeological wonders, postcard-perfect coastal scenery, offshore islands, medieval hill towns, and natural parks, the Naples region offers limitless opportunities for day trips and exploration. Whether you’re fascinated by the tragic remains of Pompeii, want to island hop to glitzy Capri, or prefer peaceful hikes in the National Park of Cilento, there are activities to satisfy every interest just a short distance away. Base yourself in vibrant Naples to sample world-famous pizza and immerse yourself in Italian culture, then use the city as your launchpad to uncover 2,000 years of history and stunning landscapes. From the looming crater of Vesuvius to the shimmering Amalfi Coast, Naples and its surroundings create the quintessential Italian adventure.