Naples, Italy

Naples is one of the most important seaports in Italy and among the largest ones in the Mediterranean Sea. The short distance between the city and popular destinations such as Pompei, Herculaneum, the Vesuvius volcano, the city of Sorrento, the island of Capri, and the Amalfi Coast makes it a very popular cruise destination included in the European cruise itineraries. 
Naples cruise terminal - Stazione Maritima, is located within walking distance from the historical heart of the city. It consists of several piers, including Molo Beverello – the main pier where cruise ships dock. The terminal building is large and features a wide variety of facilities such as tourist information desks, a new shopping mall, numerous cafeterias and restaurants, ATMs, restrooms, as well as a large parking area for shore excursions buses.

From the cruise terminal area, you can access the main Naples landmarks on foot. You can start with Castel Nuovo, an imposing medieval castle dating from the 13th century that you can spot upon exiting the cruise terminal area. The castle is a military fortress with five towers that served as a royal seat for the kings of Naples, Aragon, and Spain until the early 19th century. It features an impressive Renaissance triumphal arch integrated into the gatehouse, a Palatine chapel, and an art museum, open for the public. A beautiful location overlooking the seaside, with some great photo opportunities!

Another important castle with a fascinating history is Castel dell’Ovo, the oldest medieval castle in Naples whose origins date from the 12th century. It is located 1.5 km (a 20-minute walk) and was strategically built on Naples waterfront, overlooking the Gulf of Naples. The entrance to the castle is free, and you can climb to the observation deck from where you can admire the fantastic views of the Vesuvius volcano and the city of Naples.

Beside castles, the Naples city center is located a few minutes’ walk away from the terminal. Piazza del Plebiscito, one of the most beautiful squares that dominates the monumental building of neo-classical Basilica San Francesco da Paola, is located only 500 meters away from the terminal, in the pedestrian area, close to the main street. 

Via Toledo, one of the main shopping streets, is full of shops, restaurants, bars, and always packed with people. You can either choose to enjoy mouth-watering pizza in one of the numerous authentic Naples’ pizzerias.

Explore historical landmarks such as the National Archaeological Museum, Bourbon Galleries, Castel Sant Elmo, Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta, the Royal Palace of Naples, and many more. Naples has a lot of options to offer for everyone and is one of those cities you always want to return to.

However, if you decide to explore further, place number one to visit is the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, located about 27 km from the Naples cruise terminal, or a 30-minute driving distance. The ancient city of Pompeii, along with Herculaneum and other surrounding places was buried under the volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Nowadays, Pompeii is one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy featuring the remains of the ancient Roman city preserved by Vesuvius ash. It is a must-see attraction for history and archeology lovers but be prepared for large crowds, as this place is one of the most visited ones in Italy.

Naples has a lot of options to offer for everyone and is one of those cities you always want to return to.

For more info visit NAPLES CRUISE GUIDE, THINGS TO DO, SHORE EXCURSIONS