Naples

Naples is the regional capital of Campania and the third-largest city in Italy with a magnificent historic center! On Ferryhopper, you can take a look at available ferry routes from the port of Naples, our travel tips for your vacation and book your tickets easily and quickly!

Read our suggestions for your dreamy holidays in Naples and find useful information about its port:

• Naples ferry port
• Vacation in Naples

Typical narrow street in the historic center of Naples

Naples ferry port

The port of Naples is one of the largest Italian seaports in Europe. Nowadays, it’s one of the most crowded in Italy, a stop for visitors who come from all over the world.

Once you arrive at the port, you get mesmerized by a breathtaking view of the Vomero hill surmounted by Castel Sant'Elmo.

Also, the majestic Maschio Angioino, the medieval castle located in Piazza Municipio is a great sightseeing spot for a quick visit before taking the ferry to your next destination.

The port has intense maritime traffic, with daily departures and arrivals of large cruise ships, ferries and hydrofoils.

There are 3 passenger terminals at the port of Naples. You can board ferries and large cruise ships from both the Beverello and the Calata Porta di Massa pier. However, if you are traveling by hydrofoils, you should reach the Mergellina pier.

In the port area, you can find ticket offices, bars, restaurants, a left-luggage office, and a shuttle bus service for internal port transfer. There is also a shopping center, ATMs and pharmacies.

Ferries from Naples port: schedules and tickets

Naples is connected daily with the Amalfi and Sorrento Coast (Sorrento, Amalfi and Positano), the islands in the Gulf of Naples (Ischia, Capri and Procida), the Aeolian Islands (Stromboli, Lipari, Panarea, Salina, and Vulcano), the Pontine Islands (Ponza and Ventotene), Sardinia (Cagliari), and Sicily (Milazzo, Palermo and Termini Imerese).

The ferry routes are operated by the companies Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, Grimaldi Lines, Medmar, Caremar, Positano Jet, SNAV, Siremar, Navigazione Libera del Golfo (NLG). There are usually more than 90 daily crossings with travel time ranging from 30 minutes to 18 hours.

There are several connections from the port of Naples. So, you can find all the information on the available ferry routes depending on the destination.

Ferry from Naples to the Amalfi and Sorrento Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline in southern Italy overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno about 60 km from Naples. The ferry schedules from Naples to the Amalfi and Sorrento Coast are:

• Naples - Sorrento ferry: there are around 40 weekly crossings for the ferry route from Naples to Sorrento that last about 35-45 minutes.
• Naples - Amalfi ferry: the crossing from Naples to Amalfi usually includes 4-6 daily connections with a duration of 1.5-2 hours, depending on the ferry operator.
• Naples - Positano ferry: the ferry connection from Naples to Positano usually includes up to 8 daily ferry crossings with travel times ranging between 40 minutes and 2 hours.

Ferry from Naples to the islands of the Gulf

The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are located in the Gulf of Naples, So, if you plan to travel by ferry to the islands of the Gulf from the port of Naples, take a look at all the information about the ferry schedules:

• Naples - Ischia ferry: the ferry route from Naples to Ischia includes as many as 32 daily crossings lasting between 50 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes.
• Naples - Capri ferry: there are usually about 20 daily crossings from Naples to Capri with an average trip duration from 45 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes.
• Naples - Procida ferry: the route from Naples to Procida runs more than 20 times a day with crossings lasting around 40 minutes to 1 hour.

Tip: from April to October, the circulation of cars by non-residents in Capri, Ischia and Procida is prohibited. If you are traveling by car, you will have to leave it in a parking lot on the mainland.

Ferry from Naples to the Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands are about 263 km away from the port of Naples. The volcanic archipelago of 7 main islands is located off the northern coast of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here you can find all the ferry schedules to explore the Aeolian Islands:

• Naples - Stromboli ferry: the route from Naples to Stromboli is active with 14 crossings per week. The ferry route can take from 4.5 to 10 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
• Naples - Lipari ferry: there are about 14 weekly connections from Naples to Lipari. The crossings can last from 6 to 14.5 hours, depending on the ferry operator.
• Naples - Panarea ferry: the ferry crossing from Naples to the island of Panarea includes 2 weekly sailings in winter and daily connections in summer. The average trip duration ranges from 5 to 12 hours, depending on the ferry operator.
• Naples - Salina ferry: the connection from Naples to Salina has up to 14 weekly crossings lasting from around 5.5 to 13 hours.
• Naples - Vulcano ferry: there are up to 14 weekly connections from Naples to Vulcano, taking between 6 to 15 hours, depending on the ferry operator.

Ferry from Naples to the Pontine Islands

If you want to explore the Pontine Islands, you can also take the ferry from the port of Naples. The archipelago is in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of the Lazio region.

Many weekly connections depart for Ponza and Ventotene islands during the summer. Here you can find more information about all the ferry connections to the Pontine Islands:

• Naples - Ponza ferry: the ferry route from Naples to Ponza is seasonal and runs up to 3-5 times a week with crossings of around 3 hours.
• Naples - Ventotene ferry: there are up to 5 weekly connections from Naples to Ventotene, taking about 2 hours.

Ferry from Naples to Sardinia and Sicily

You can also explore the beautiful cities of Sardinia and Sicily by catching the ferry from the port of Naples. Here you can find the ferry schedules and the trip duration from Naples to Sardinia and Sicily. 

• Naples - Cagliari ferry: the ferry crossing from Naples to Cagliari is available up to 3 times a week with crossings of approximately 15 hours.
• Naples - Palermo ferry: the route from Naples to Palermo serves 3-5 daily connections with crossings ranging between 8.5 and 11.5 hours, depending on the operator chosen.
• Naples - Milazzo ferry: the ferry route from Naples to Milazzo (a town in the province of Messina) includes 2 weekly connections lasting approximately 16-18 hours.
• Naples - Termini Imerese ferry: the crossing from Naples to Termini Imerese (a town about 40 km east of Palermo) includes 1 weekly connection taking about 8-9.5 hours depending on the type of vessel.

Useful info: some months of the year, you can also travel by ferry from Naples to Salerno. The routes are not direct, but include intermediate stops at Capri or ports on the Amalfi Coast.

Take a look at our Map of ferries with all the connections available from the port of Naples and start planning your holidays right away!

Where is the ferry port in Naples

The port of Naples is located near the city center (Piazza Municipio) and is easily accessible by public transport. It is about 15 km from Capodichino airport and only 10 minutes from the central railway station of Naples.

How to get to Naples port

You can get to the port of Naples by taxi or bus. A bus leaves from the train station of Naples, heading towards the piers of Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa and stops in Piazza Garibaldi.

However, if you travel by hydrofoil and want to reach the Mergellina pier, you should take the metro. There is a station named Mergellina located very close to the port.

The busy port of Naples

Vacation in Naples

Naples is a city that surprises with its astonishing beauty and mysticism. Art and culture are truly in every corner with royal palaces, medieval castles and ancient ruins, including some of Christianity's oldest frescoes.

Naples’ wealth of cultural assets is amazing. It’s a place of soul-stirring art, a bewitching mixture of myth and fact and, of course, the birthplace of Italian pizza! From silky pizza with eggplant to garlicky ragù (meat and tomato sauce), the food on the streets of Naples is all about strong flavors and pleasure. 

The city is an intense experience awakening your senses! There are so many corners to explore and so many finger-licking dishes that a weekend isn’t enough. One thing is for sure: if you are into curious tales and delicious food, then Naples is your city! 

Plus, thanks to its mild climate, Naples is an ideal destination all year round, although the best times to visit are spring and autumn.

How to get to Naples

Naples is well connected to the rest of Italy and is easily accessible by car, train, plane and ferry. However, the public transport network in the southern part of Italy doesn’t offer frequent connections. 

Therefore, if you travel from Southern Italy, the most convenient way to reach the port of Naples is by car. If you plan to travel from Central Italy instead, you can catch the train and reach Naples in only a few hours easily and comfortably.

Alternatively, you can reach Naples by plane. The international airport of Capodichino is connected to various destinations in Italy and Europe with flights from the UK, Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Portugal, and many other countries.

Also, Naples is one of the main connection points between the islands of the Campania region, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Gulf of Gaeta, with several daily ferry crossings. 

A scooter parked on the streets of Naples

What to do in Naples

Naples is a city that offers soul-stirring panoramas, endless art pieces, rich volcanic soils, ambrosial food, and a bewitching atmosphere between medieval alleys and castles.

During your stay in Naples, let yourself be intoxicated by the sounds and scents of espresso in the city through its noisy Spanish Quarters.

Get lost in the alleys and enjoy the beauty of ancient churches and historic buildings. Walk along the Caracciolo seafront and taste the flavors of Neapolitan food, including a pizza and a babà with rum!

Also, there are several heavenly beaches for sun and relaxation! If you're looking for an adventure, then you should definitely plan an excursion to Mount Vesuvius.

Tip: Naples is very close to the Amalfi Coast. In addition, you can visit the archaeological site of Pompeii or catch the ferry from the port and take a tour of the wonderful islands of the Gulf!

Beaches in Naples

In addition to admiring the architectural beauties of Naples, you can also relax on the heavenly beaches near the city of Naples.

Here are the best beaches in Naples and its province:

• Gaiola: it’s located within the submerged archaeological park of Gaiola. It’s one of the most beautiful Neapolitan beaches and it’s perfect for snorkeling! However, it can be crowded, so it's best to arrive early in the morning to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and stunning views.
• Miliscola: you can find this long beach inside Bacoli bay. It has fine sand and a beautiful cliff. There are several equipped beaches and a public area. From the beach, it is possible to admire the view of the islands of Ischia and Procida.
• Lo Scoglione di Marechiaro: it’s situated in an enchanting place surrounded by greenery. You can reach the small beach by boat from the village of Marechiaro and enjoy its sapphire waters and serenity away from the crowds.
• Bagno Elena: it’s in the bay of Palazzo Donn'Anna in Posillipo. The beach is located in a strip of volcanic origin and is great for families. It is organized with a beach bar, umbrellas and sunbeds.
• Baia delle Rocce Verdi: it’s one of the most popular beaches in Naples. It’s a rocky cove offering a beautiful view of the Gulf and the island of Capri. There is also a small bar with cool drinks and snacks, ideal after taking a dive. However, keep in mind that admission to the beach is subject to a fee.
• Castello di Baia: the beach is located under the magnificent Aragonese Castle of Baia in Bacoli. It has dark sand, deep blue waters and you can only reach it by sea. Surrounded by unspoiled nature and devoid of services, it is ideal for relaxing. There, you can also find a restaurant and bathing facilities.
• Acquamorta: this small beach has a particular conformation. It’s located at the base of a rocky promontory that shields the beach from the wind. Therefore, the waters are always calm, making the beach perfect for families. It is easily accessible by car.
• Schiacchetiello: this little corner of paradise is just 30 minutes from Naples and is an inlet situated between the rocks and the island of Punta Pennata. You can reach it by boat or by taking the trail from the Mirabilis Pool.
• Riva Fiorita: this beach is located between sumptuous villas and historic buildings in the Posillipo area. Composed of a short strip of sand and pebbles, it is the perfect place for diving enthusiasts. You can reach it by boat or on foot.

The underwater park surrounding the island of Gaiola in the Gulf of Naples 

Sightseeing in Naples

Naples is a fascinating city with an immense artistic heritage and many natural beauties. Among the most beautiful attractions to discover in Naples, we recommend:

• The National Archaeological Museum, the world's finest collection of Pompeiian frescoes and mosaics
• The imposing Naples Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary
• The Royal Palace, an architectural jewel, museum and cultural center
• The Maschio Angioino, a famous medieval and Renaissance castle built in 1266
• The Castel dell’Ovo, the oldest castle in Naples located on the islet of Megaride
• Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in the city and one of the most impressive in Italy
• The Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, containing the archaeological excavations of underground Naples
• The Virgiliano park, located on a promontory overlooking the sea
• The Monastery of Santa Chiara, one of the most important monastic complexes in Naples
• The Charterhouse of San Martino, located on the Vomero hill, next to Castel Sant'Elmo
• The Sansevero Chapel Museum, holding Italy's most extraordinary marble sculpture, the statue of the Veiled Christ
• Spaccanapoli, the straight, narrow street crossing the historic city of Naples
• The Complex of San Domenico Maggiore, a beautiful baroque church hosting exhibitions and events
• The impressive Capodimonte Museum, hosting some of Caravaggio’s masterpieces
• San Gregorio Armeno, a street known all over the world for its shops where nativity scenes and figurines are built
• Piazza Bellini, one of the busiest areas of Naples 

Tip: the archaeological sites of Herculaneum and Pompeii are among the main attractions in Italy. However, if you’re an architecture lover, the Casina Vanvitelliana is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

The grandiose Piazza del Plebiscito in the historic center of Naples 

Nightlife in Naples

Naples has a lively nightlife for every taste. During the winter, you can enjoy your drink in the city center’s bars and nightclubs.

The nightlife welcomes students, young people and tourists inviting them for an aperitif or a delicious pizza slice. There are many districts and cozy neighborhoods where you can enjoy your drink. Among the most popular are the historic centers of Chiaia, Fuorigrotta and Vomero.

There are also various lounge bars, such as the live music bar Alter Ego 21 in the heart of Naples. It’s one of the trendiest parts of the city, offering different events and cocktail nights.

In summer, you can enjoy one of the most popular beach bars named Arenile di Bagnoli. This disco club boasts a beautiful open-air dance floor where you can enjoy your drink on the beach.

Food in Naples

There are so many typical Neapolitan dishes and they have certainly contributed to forming the identity of Italian cuisine! So get ready for a gastronomic journey to soft dough, melting cheese, prosciutto, and ragù!

Here are some of the most delicious local delicacies to try during your stay in Naples:

• Neapolitan pizza (with buffalo mozzarella and San Marcano tomato sauce, basil, and extra virgin olive oil)
• friarielli (broccoli rabe sautéed with garlic and oil)
• pasta alla Genovese (sauce, onions, beef, and white wine)
• spaghetti frittata (fried pasta with eggs, scamorza cheese, bacon, and ham) 
• pasta cresciuta (little fritters filled with sardines)
• casatiello (stuffed savory bread with cheese and salami)
• The Neapolitan ragù (meat and tomato sauce)
• sfogliatella (shell-shaped pastry filled with whipped cream)
• pastiera (tart with cooked wheat, eggs and ricotta cheese)
• babà (traditional Neapolitan dessert dipped in rum)
• salted codfish
• buffalo mozzarella
• pasta with beans and mussels

 A finger-licking Neapolitan pizza with eggplant

Villages and cities to visit near Naples

Campania is a territory rich in history and splendid villages overlooking the sea and the inland hills. Therefore, during your stay in Naples, take some time off from the crowded alleys and head towards the picturesque villages near the city.

Here are 5 charming places near Naples to visit:

• Caserta: the city is located 27 km from Naples and owes its fame to the largest royal residence in the world, the impressive Royal Palace of Caserta. Walk into the impressive apartments in baroque style, stroll in the immense park among fountains and cascades, and admire the botanical garden.
• Sant’Agata de Goti: the charming medieval town is at the foot of Monte Taburno, perched on a rocky terrace. Its historic center is a well-preserved warren of narrow lanes leading to tiny squares and shops with local flavors, including the winter apple and black truffles! 
• Montesarchio: this village is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views, good food and fascinating history. Visit the Lombard castle and admire the archaeological evidence of a place that belonged to the Samnites!
• Castellabate: the medieval town of castles stands above the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean. It’s located 300 m above sea level with a captivating tangle of alleyways and pedestrian lanes. It’s known for its spectacular landscape and was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1998.
• Cusano Mutri: this stunning medieval village is nestled in a valley dominated by Mount Mutria. The beauty of its historic center and its surrounding nature is breathtaking, ideal for long walks.

Tips

Here are some tips that we hope will be useful to you during your stay in Naples:

• We recommend purchasing the Naples Pass to save money on admissions and transport. You can decide between a 3 or 7-consecutive-day pass or even an annual card!
• Due to city traffic, we recommend that you reach the port of Naples at least 90 minutes before departure to avoid delays.
• Naples is undoubtedly the capital of espresso and tradition has it to be served hot! So, be careful and don't put yourself at risk of burning your tongue.

A spectacular panorama of Naples and Mount Vesuvius from Vomero

Useful information for Naples 

Naples offers its visitors various things to do and see. Most restaurants and shops are located in the historic center of the city. The hub of Naples develops around Via Toledo with cafes, bars, museums, and many attractions in close distance. If you like markets, the one in Poggioreale is certainly the most famous.

In regards to your accommodation, Naples is quite cheap compared to other large Italian cities. Here you will find various options for all budgets from hotels, pensions, hostels, and Bed & Breakfasts.

If you want to immerse yourself in the true Neapolitan atmosphere, then finding accommodation in the historic center is ideal, while if you prefer a room with a sea view, you should search in the seaside area near the districts of Posillipo, Chiaia and Vomero.

As for health care, there are several hospitals both in the city and in the province of Naples. In addition, the tourist medical guard service is active throughout the summer in case of any emergency.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Naples

Here are some useful contacts to keep within reach during your trip to Naples:

• ALS ambulance: +390817528282
• Municipality of Naples: +390817951111
• Naples Police Station: +390817513177
• Naples Port Authority: +390812445111
• Tourist Information Center: +390810127430
• Roadside Assistance: 116
• Sea Rescue: 1530
• European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Naples

Due to traffic, the car is not the most suitable choice for getting around the city. Instead, you can explore the historic center of Naples on foot or by bicycle! Also, the public transport network is quite efficient so you can move around the city by metro, tram or funicular. 

If you want to reach the upper streets of Naples, you can actually take public elevators. There are 4 public elevators that you can use from 07:00 to 21:30.

Take the Chiaia elevator to reach the Monte di Dio neighborhood or the Acton elevator to get to Molo Beverello's port easily. Also, the Sanità elevator connects the bridge to the Sanità district very near the Church of Santa Maria della Sanità and the Catacombs of San Gaudioso.

Tip: if you decide to rent a bicycle to discover the city, you should keep in mind to find the cycling routes. They start from the Agnano area up to via Medina and allow you to cross the whole city from east to west.

Neapolitan horn-shaped lucky charms and traditional figurines

Book Naples ferry tickets online

On Ferryhopper, you can find all connections from Naples to the Amalfi and Sorrento Coast, the Gulf Islands, the Aeolian Islands, the Pontine Islands, Sardinia, and Sicily. Just pick one or go island hopping and get mesmerized by the high-octane energy of Naples. So, book your ferry tickets online without any hidden fees and let the adventure begin!