Naples is a city steeped in history, rich culture, and stunning architecture. From the picturesque location on the Gulf of Naples, at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, through ancient ruins and great museums to delicious cuisine, Naples has something for everyone. Join our Historic Naples free walking tour to take a walk in the footsteps of emperors, kings, and artists that once inhabited the city and get a perfect introduction to Naples and all its wonders.
Naples’ long and fascinating history dates back to ancient times. The area was originally settled by Greeks in the first millennium BC which makes it one of the oldest cities in the world. In the 6th century BC it was known as Neápolis, meaning “new city.” During the mediaeval period Naples grew to be an important cultural and intellectual centre, with renowned scholars such as Thomas Aquinas and Giordano Bruno studying there. It became the capital of the Kingdom of Naples in the 13th century, which lasted until the Italian unification in the 19th century. In the 17th century under the rule of the Bourbon dynasty, the city experienced a period of artistic and cultural flourishing and was known as the centre of Baroque style. In the 20th century Naples played a key role in the Italian resistance movement during World War II and became instrumental in the process of post-war reconstruction. Today, it remains an important cultural and economic centre in Italy. Over its history, Naples has been ruled by a variety of different powers, including the Spanish, French, and Austrians. This diversity has left its mark on the city, creating a rich and unique cultural heritage that is still visible today.
During the Historic Naples free tour we will take you through centuries of the city’s existence, starting from ancient Roman ruins through mediaeval castles, stunning Baroque churches, charming squares and busy streets. We will walk around the city’s historic centre, which has been inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List and explore the famous Spaccanapoli, a narrow street that divides the city and perfectly captures its vibrant spirit. Walking around you’ll admire the majestic Naples Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic style, and the exquisite Santa Chiara Church with its beautifully decorated cloisters. We will stop at the most important city squares like Piazza del Plebiscito where you’ll be introduced to the grandeur of Naples’ past through the impressive 17th Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola. As we stroll through the picturesque streets of Naples, our guides will regale you with tales of famous Neapolitans, such as the poet and philosopher Giacomo Leopardi, the composer Gioachino Rossini, and the legendary Caravaggio, whose masterpieces can be found in the city’s churches and museums. We will see San Carlo Theatre, the oldest opera house in Europe and take a stroll down the famous Via Toledo, a bustling shopping street that is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and historic buildings. Finally we will see the stunning Castel dell’Ovo, a mediaeval fortress perched on the edge of the Bay of Naples. Legend has it that it was built on the spot where the Greek hero Odysseus encountered the sirens. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, Mount Vesuvius, and the city’s enchanting skyline. But Naples is not only famous for its rich history and architectural marvels but also for its delectable local cuisine and vibrant nightlife. As the birthplace of pizza, you simply cannot leave without savouring a traditional Neapolitan pizza, boasting a thin and crispy crust topped with the freshest ingredients. Naples is also known for its mouth watering street food, such as cuoppo (a paper cone filled with a variety of fried delights) and the iconic sfogliatella pastry, with its delicate layers of crispy dough and sweet ricotta filling. Our guide will share stories of how these local foods are made and provide hints on where to try the best Neapolitan pizza as well as other delicious local specialties. On top of fascinating history and delicious food Naples is also known for its vibrant street life, colourful markets, and lively nightlife scene. Its perfect setting makes it also an excellent base for exploring the Campania region: charming Amalfi Coast, Pompeii – an ancient Roman city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and the beautiful island of Capri.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just looking for a unique and exciting travel experience, Naples will be a perfect place to visit. With its beautiful surroundings, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant street life it will leave you enchanted for long. Take our Historic Naples free walking tour to immerse yourself in this incredible city and experience all it has to offer.
During our 2,5 hour Historic Naples free walking tour you will see and discover:
- Neptune’s Fountain on Piazza Municipio
- Piazza del Plebiscito
- Royal Palace
- San Carlo Theatre
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
- …and much, much more!
