Plan a CruiseCruise ships dock directly in the heart of Naples, providing immediate access to the city center. The port area is conveniently located near ATMs, various eateries, tourist information kiosks, and public restrooms. From the harbor, you'll be directly opposite the impressive Castel Nuovo and Piazza del Municipio, placing you right in downtown Naples. The city, known for its beautiful bay and views of Capri and Ischia, is highly walkable, with many points of interest in the historic center just minutes away on foot.
Getting Around from the Port
The city center is a mere 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. For exploring further, several options are available:
- Walking: Many interesting spots in the historic center are easily reached on foot within minutes.
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus: The pickup point is conveniently located a 5-minute walk from the terminal, to the left of Castel Nuovo. Be aware that some buses may not have covered tops, so dress appropriately.
- Metro: A metro station near the cruise terminal offers connections to the main train station (Piazza Garibaldi) and the National Museum. Tickets cost €1.50 and are valid for one hour, with trains running every 10 minutes. Exit at Piazza Garibaldi for the main station.
- Traffic Warning: Naples traffic can be very heavy, so allow ample time for any transport, especially when returning to the ship.
Attractions and Activities
Naples serves as an excellent base for exploring historic sites and beautiful islands within a short distance.
- Pompeii: This significant historical site, buried by Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79, allows visitors to explore an ancient Roman city. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Transport: You can reach Pompeii by train (from Naples Garibaldi station, accessible via metro) or by SITA bus 5001, which departs directly in front of the terminal. The bus journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Mount Vesuvius: The only volcano on the European mainland to have erupted in the last century, Vesuvius is located about 9 kilometers (6 miles) east of Naples and offers a commanding presence over the Bay.
- Sorrento: Enjoy a scenic trip to Sorrento, a charming coastal town.
- Transport: Fast ferries (hydrofoils) depart from the Beverello ferry terminal, just 100 meters from where cruise ships dock. The 40-minute boat trip costs €12.30 one way. Upon arrival, a local bus into Sorrento's center costs €1. For your return, a 1-hour train ride from Sorrento back to Naples Garibaldi station costs €4.10 and also makes a stop at Pompeii.
- Capri and Ischia: These beautiful islands in the Bay of Naples are a short boat ride away.
- Transport to Capri: Ferries depart next to your cruise ship. Fast hydrofoils take 40 minutes, while slower ferries take 75 minutes. Capri is located 5 km from the mainland.
Dining
Naples is the birthplace of pizza – don't miss trying an authentic Neapolitan pizza! For meals with a view, head west along the waterfront to Via Riviera di Chiara, which features numerous outdoor cafes (some heated on cooler days). Many larger cafes and those around the main railway station offer free WiFi for customers. *
Shopping
The city's main retail hub is an easy 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Proceed past Castel Nuovo to Via Chiaia, a popular pedestrian street filled with shops and bars. From Via Chiaia, you can also explore a myriad of small, characterful alleys and picturesque squares. For a grander shopping experience, visit Galleria Umberto I, a large covered arcade similar to Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Safety
Naples can sometimes be "rough around the edges." It is crucial to be vigilant and watch your belongings closely, as pickpockets are known to be very professional here. Exercise extra caution, especially if using public transport like buses when returning to the port from Naples Garibaldi station; consider taking a taxi if you prefer.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants. ATMs are readily available near the port and throughout the city.