People who haven’t been to Naples are often divided. It’s a top destination for many – mainly foodies who want to eat their way around the city, whereas others are apprehensive due to its colorful and somewhat notorious past.
Well, I’m here to tell you that Italy’s third-largest city should definitely be on your list. And if it already is, bump it up a bit. It’s one of my favorite cities in Europe and somewhere I’d love to return to – hopefully with better weather, as it rained a lot when I was there, but I’m told that’s very unusual!
It’s a great place to stop off on your way to the Amalfi Coast or if you’re planning on visiting Pompeii. But it shouldn’t be just a stop-off. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Naples, historic sites to see, and Pizzerias to try out.
But where should you stay in Naples? Are the different neighborhoods within walking distance from each other? And what are the prices like?
In my guide to Naples, I’m going to take you through my favorite quartieri, so you can choose where to stay in Naples based on your traveling style and needs.
Safety in Naples
Before we get into where to stay in Naples, it’s important to talk about safety. It was certainly a question I had before going and luckily I have a good friend in Berlin from the city who helped me!
In his, and my, opinion, Naples is a safe city to visit and has completely changed in the last few decades. Of course, like any city in the world, crime exists and pickpocketing is common. But the central and more touristy areas are completely safe to wander around, just don’t flash phones or cameras, and don’t wear any obvious jewelry.
Even though neighborhoods such as the historical center are safe to stay in, there are still some areas in Naples you should avoid. Scampia, for example, is quite a dangerous area and not one tourist should enter, although it’s unlikely you’ll find yourself there anyway.
Is Naples Safe as a Solo Female Traveler?
Although I haven’t personally traveled around Naples alone, I’d be perfectly happy doing so – but only in some areas and not late at night. It’s also the kind of place I’d try to stay in a more upmarket hotel if I were alone and one of the ones in a central, touristy area. Although one of my favorite neighborhoods in Naples, I wouldn’t stay in the Spanish Quarter, although I’d feel happy visiting there during the day.
Cost of Staying in Naples
Naples is a city full of diversity. It has a rich history and this is reflected in the food, culture, and people. There are therefore many different types of accommodation with different prices.
Some neighborhoods in Naples are more expensive than others, and you can always find more basic and luxurious accommodations wherever you go. Like most cities along the Mediterranean coast, Naples is also seasonal and you can expect to pay more in the warmer months.
The average price, however, for mid-range accommodation is US$85 and you can find rooms as cheap as US$35 off-season. Accommodation in Naples isn’t as expensive as in some other Italian cities, such as Florence or Rome.
Where to Stay in Naples: The Best Neighborhoods
Naples is divided into many different neighborhoods, each with a unique history and feel. Which neighborhood will suit you best depends on your budget, how close you like to be to the main city sites, and if you prefer to be surrounded by locals or tourists.
The top neighborhoods to stay in Naples are:
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Centro Storico (Historic Center)
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Chiaia
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Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters)
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Porto di Napoli (Naples Port)
1. Where to Stay in Naples for Your First Visit: Centro Storico
Best for: First-time visitors and central location.
The Centro Storico is one of the most beautiful areas in Naples – it’s even a Unesco World Heritage Site! It’s the heart of the city and was originally founded by Greek settlers in 470 BC and called Neapolis (New City).
It’s made up of narrow weaving streets, some of the best eateries in the city, stunning architecture, and an abundance of unique, boutique shops. As the name suggests, it’s located in the center of Naples and it’s easy to walk to most of the tourist attractions and other neighborhoods.
The Duomo di Napoli, Sansevero Chapel Museum, Spaccanapoli shopping street, and San Lorenzo Maggiore are all in the Centro Storico, so you can see why it’s a popular place for travelers to stay. It’s also within walking distance from the central train station, making it a great option for those traveling from the city.
If you don’t stay in the Historic City Center, it’s still 100% worth visiting. Some of my favorite restaurants are also there, including Antica Pizzeria Di Matteo and Gino e Totò Sorbillo.
Best Hotels to Stay in the Historic Center
Luxury: La Lepre Felice
La Lepre Felice is a beautiful and really well-designed hotel in the Historic Center but close to the port and beaches too. It offers an array of suites, including double, queen, and king and there’s even a king room with a spa bath!
There are family rooms, as well as a lift for easy access, free Wi-Fi, and an airport shuttle. Even though it’s a beautiful and charming hotel to stay in, people really love it for its location. Most things are within walking distance and there are loads of restaurants, bakeries, and tourist attractions nearby.
Check availability & best rates
Mid-Range: Sotto Le Stelle Ai Decumani
Sotto Le Stelle Ai Decumani is a wonderful B&B in the heart of the Historic Center. It’s clean and functional, and free breakfast is served every morning. There’s also a TV in every room and free Wi-Fi. The owners are really kind and amenable and are happy to mark out the best things to see and do in the area.
The location of this B&B is fabulous with the San Gregorio Armeno shopping street just 400m away. It’s excellent for access to the entire city.
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Budget: Palazzo Rota Superior
This is a great budget hotel that offers breakfast and a private bathroom as well as all the amenities one would expect. It’s located in a beautiful building with stunning views over the inner courtyard.
Visitors particularly love the location of this hotel with the San Carlo Theatre, Chiesa dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo, and Palazzo Reale Napoli just a short walk away.
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Pros of Staying in Naples Historic Center
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Close to main tourist attractions
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Lots of restaurants, bars, and cafes
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Within walking distance of other neighborhoods
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Beautiful architecture
Cons of Staying in Historic Center
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Lots of people, especially in high season
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No parking places – although I wouldn’t recommend driving in Naples anyway
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Not such a local ‘feel’ as other places
2. Where to Stay in Naples for Couples: Chiaia
Best for: Luxury Stays and a Romantic Getaway.
Chiaia is a safe and more upmarket neighborhood to the west of the Historic Center. This beautiful area is made up of larger houses and stunning little streets that are home to boutique shops and designer brands.
If you stay in Chiaia, you’ll have beautiful views over the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Island of Capri. There’s also the Lungomare Caracciolo, a beautiful beachfront street that’s the perfect place to walk along, have a limoncello spritz, and do some people-watching.
Chiaia is also home to Villa Comunale di Napoli, a beautiful park built in the 1780s that runs along the beachfront and is a great place to wander around and get some shade on a hot day. There’s also Mappatella Beach, a nice spot for a quick swim but if you’re heading along the coast to another location, I’d miss swimming here and wait for one of the more idyllic beaches.
Although a more affluent area, there is still a really good mix of hotels and B&Bs to suit all budgets. It gets full in the summer months but you’ll find it less busy than the Historic Center because there’s more space.
Best Hotels to Stay in Chiaia
Luxury: Grand Hotel Parker’s
If you’re looking for a view, then the Grand Hotel Parker’s is perfect. It has one of the best views over the Bay of Naples of any hotel in the city.
This luxurious hotel is located in Corso Vittorio Emanuele, an upmarket area of Chiaia. It’s 5-star treatment all the way at this hotel, with each suite having its own balcony and some having sea views.
There’s also an impressive restaurant and rooftop terrace serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine and drinks. There’s also a gym and a cigar room! Anyone staying here will particularly like the service and how attentive all the staff are.
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Mid-Range: Micalò Art Rooms
This beautiful guesthouse has a range of different modern rooms, including ones for families and couples. Set just 700m back from Mappatella Beach, it’s perfect for being close to the ocean as well as the Villa Comunale di Napoli.
Rooms have a private bathroom and air conditioning and some even have views across the bay. There are restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby and it’s the perfect location for couples.
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Budget: B&B One
B&B One is a budget but well-located B&B that’s just over 1km from Mappatella Beach and close to the subway to take you into the center of town. There are several different rooms available, some of which have a city view. The rooms are equipped with mini kitchens, ideal if you don’t want to eat out.
There’s also a luggage storage space as well as a common courtyard to enjoy. Those staying there particularly liked how clean the rooms are as well as how responsive and attentive the staff are.
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Pros of Staying in Chiaia
Cons of Staying in Chiaia
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Further out of the city, it takes around 30 minutes on the subway or an hour walking
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Less hustle and bustle – which might be a pro for some!
3. Where to Stay in Naples Like a Local: Quartieri Spagnoli
Best for: Getting a Feel for Naples.
The Spanish Quarter is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Naples and is conveniently located close to Chiaia and the Historic Center.
It’s full of character and great food and perfectly exhibits the soul of Naples. The thin, winding streets are easy to get lost in and you’re sure to see some sites – I remember seeing a meat offering that people kept helping themselves to, which I still don’t fully understand!
There are lots of attractions in the Spanish Quarter including Pignasecca Market – a wonderful place to get fresh fruits and veggies as well as fish and meat, and the famous Maradona mural.
To be honest, one of my favorite things to do in the Spanish Quarter is just to walk around, stop for a slice of pizza, and soak up just how amazing the city is.
Best Hotels to Stay in The Spanish Quarter
Luxury: Grand Hotel Orient
This luxury hotel is well positioned on the outskirts of the Spanish Quarter, close to both Plebiscito and Naples Historic Center. There are different suites and spacious rooms to choose from, including deluxe double rooms and suites that have a view over the city, Mount Vesuvius, and Sant’Elmo Castle.
There’s a lounge bar and a restaurant serving food inspired by the area and a rooftop bar that has stunning views at sunset.
This modern hotel is particularly popular amongst couples and those wanting to be in the heart of the city but not where all the action happens.
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Mid-Range: House Toledo
Many of the accommodation options in the Spanish Quarter are apartments – and this is one of them! This apartment comfortably sleeps 4 people and has the option of an extra sofa bed too. It has one bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen.
House Toledo is located in a very central area and is the perfect base to walk to all the major attractions. There are lots of delicious street food stalls nearby and the hosts are happy to recommend local restaurants, sites to see, and places to go.
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Budget: Dimora Diego
Dimora Diego is another wonderful, fully-equipped apartment in the center of the Spanish Quarter. It’s close to Via Chiaia, Galleria Borbonica, and San Carlo Theatre and is within walking distance from almost all of the tourist attractions in Naples.
There’s a terrace to enjoy as well as a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. When you leave the front door, you’ll be surrounded by the smells and sights of the Spanish Quarter. You will particularly like the central location and how helpful the host is.
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Pros of Staying in The Spanish Quarter
Cons of Staying in The Spanish Quarter
4. Where to Stay in Naples for Easy Access to the Amalfi Coast & Islands: Port of Naples/Santa Lucia
Best For: If You’re Going Going Island Hopping.
The port of Naples is a bustling area full of people coming and going and enjoying the city. Whilst perhaps not as typically beautiful as some other neighborhoods in Naples, it definitely has a charm about it.
As well as seeing all the sites Naples has to offer, many people go to the city to visit the nearby islands such as Capri, Ischia, and Procida. If you do plan on taking a ferry to one of the islands or to the Amalfi Coast, you might want to think about staying in the Port of Naples or Santa Lucia, which is very close by.
Santa Lucia is home to the Royal Palace of Naples in Piazza del Plebiscito and there’s a beautiful promenade you can walk along to enjoy. There are also lots of excellent seafood restaurants in Santa Lucia, with fresh fish being caught daily. Because the area is right on the waterfront, you have excellent views over Mount Vesuvius and the Mediterranean.
Best Hotels to Stay in the Port of Naples/Santa Lucia
Luxury: Romeo Napoli
If you’re looking for top-tier luxury, then Romeo Napoli is the perfect place to stay. This stunning hotel has views right across the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. It has all the amenities you’d expect from a luxury hotel, including an outdoor pool, spa, concierge service, and lounge bar. There’s also a restaurant that offers gourmet food from around the world with local produce.
There are several suites to choose from, including a deluxe harbor view room and a deluxe suite.
Romeo Napoli is within walking distance from the Historic Center, and the Spanish Quarter, and it’s possible to walk along the seafront to the beach and Chiaia.
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Mid-Range: Cortese
Cortese is a bright and spacious B&B with views over the sea and quiet streets. There are several sized rooms to choose from, many of which have a cute little balcony. There’s a shared terrace on the top floor that serves breakfast and drinks.
This hotel is perhaps slightly further out than some others on this list of where to stay in Naples, but the main sites to visit are still within walking distance and visitors love the location. It’s also close to a subway station and there’s a lift for easy access. The port is close by with regular boats heading out towards the islands or along the coast.
This hotel is great for single travelers, couples, and families.
Check availability & best rates
Budget: Napoli Central City
This is a great value-for-money B&B close to the Port of Napoli and the Historical Center. It’s also close to the central station area, so ideal for those wanting to do day trips, such as to Pompeii. The rooms are very clean, with basic amenities and private bathrooms. There’s also free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and free toiletries.
Breakfast is included in the price and served in an Italian cafe 60m away from the hotel and visitors absolutely love it! Many of the rooms have a balcony with pretty views and there’s a subway close by to take you towards the center or to other sites around the city.
Check availability & best rates
Pros of Staying in The Port/Santa Lucia
Cons of Staying in The Port/Santa Lucia
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Not as charming as some other neighborhoods
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Can be very touristy in summer, especially when the cruise ships come in
Where to Stay in Naples – Frequently Asked Questions
📍 What is the best area to stay in Naples?
That really depends on how you want to enjoy the city. For first-timers, I’d recommend staying in the Centro Storico. Couples will be right at home in Chiaia and the Spanish Quarter is perfect if you love to get a feel of the real Naples.
🏨 What types of accommodations are available in Naples?
Naples offers many different types of accommodation. You can find upmarket hotels, B&Bs, apartments, and hostels. Some areas, such as the Spanish Quarter have more apartments than others.
❓ Is Naples a family-friendly city to visit in Italy?
Yes, there are lots of great things to do with kids in Naples, including boat rides, day trips, museums, and parks. There are also a lot of accommodation options, including family rooms and apartments.
☀️ When’s the best time to visit Naples?
Naples can get very hot, so I’d say the best time to visit the city is between March and May. Of course, if you’re combining your trip with beaches along the Amalfi Coast, you might want to go a little later, but they can get very crowded in August.
🚗 Do you need a car in Naples?
Absolutely not. In fact, I’d recommend not driving in the city. Once you go, you’ll understand why!
Where to Stay in Naples – Final Words
Naples is an incredible city, full of history, beautiful buildings, and incredible food. It’s very varied when it comes to neighborhoods but they’re all well connected and you can even walk between most of them.
The accommodation on offer is great and there’s something to suit every traveler’s needs. Whichever area you decide to base yourself in, make sure you visit the others to get a full feel for this vibrant city.
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