Taking a day trip from Rome to Naples is one of the most fascinating experiences you can enjoy during your stay in Italy’s capital. In just over an hour by high-speed train, you’ll find yourself immersed in a completely different atmosphere — with scents, sounds, flavors, and colors that tell the story of a city like no other. If you’re wondering what to see and what to eat in Naples in one day, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
How to Get from Rome to Naples for a Day Trip
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Naples is by high-speed train. Departures leave from Roma Termini and Roma Tiburtina, arriving directly at Napoli Centrale in just about an hour.
The main train companies are Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and Italo, with departures every 15–30 minutes throughout the day. Ticket prices range from €25 to €60 depending on the time and how early you book.
Once you arrive, the station’s location is perfect — Piazza Garibaldi, right by the city center and just steps from the metro, which easily connects you to all the main attractions.
What to See in Naples on a Day Trip
Exploring Naples in one day may sound challenging, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can truly experience the city’s essence. Here’s a route that combines art, history, and street life.
The Historic Center: The Beating Heart of Naples
Start your visit in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a 15-minute walk from the station. Here you’ll find Spaccanapoli, the famous narrow street that cuts through the city, lined with Baroque churches, artisan shops, and the iconic nativity scene workshops of San Gregorio Armeno.
Don’t miss:
- Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro), with its chapel and the vials containing the saint’s blood.
- Church of Gesù Nuovo, famous for its unique façade and marble-filled interior.
- Cloister of Santa Chiara, an oasis of peace adorned with colorful majolica tiles.
Walking through these streets, you’ll feel the authentic soul of Naples — a mix of sacred and everyday life, art and tradition.
Piazza del Plebiscito and the Waterfront
From the historic center, head toward Piazza del Plebiscito, one of Italy’s most iconic squares. Here you’ll find the Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, surrounded by elegant cafés and galleries that recall Naples’ Bourbon grandeur.
A few steps away, the Caracciolo seafront offers breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, Castel dell’Ovo, and the shimmering Gulf of Naples. It’s the perfect place for photos and to soak up the city’s energy.
If you have time, detour to Via Chiaia and Via dei Mille — ideal for shopping in local boutiques and artisan stores.
The Spanish Quarters and Street Art
Every corner of Naples tells a story. The Spanish Quarters (Quartieri Spagnoli) are one of the city’s most vibrant and authentic areas: a maze of alleys filled with the aroma of slow-cooked ragù, laundry hanging between buildings, and colorful street art.
The most famous mural is the portrait of Diego Maradona on Via Emanuele de Deo — a symbol of the city’s everlasting love for its football legend.
If you love photography and street culture, this is the perfect place to capture Naples’ lively soul — every corner feels like a movie set.
National Archaeological Museum of Naples
If you want to dedicate an hour to art, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) is unmissable. It houses treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including mosaics, statues, and frescoes that reveal life in ancient Rome.
It’s located just a short walk from Piazza Dante and is well worth a stop even on a short itinerary.
Underground Naples
For a unique experience, explore Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples) — a labyrinth of tunnels and ancient cisterns carved into the city’s volcanic rock. During the guided tour, you’ll see ancient aqueducts, World War II shelters, and remnants of Greek and Roman civilization.
Advance booking is highly recommended, as spots on the tours are limited.
Discover Naples and Mount Vesuvius with a Panoramic Tour
After spending a day exploring the heart of Naples, extend your adventure by visiting one of the Gulf’s most iconic landmarks: Mount Vesuvius. After wandering through the alleys of Spaccanapoli, admiring Piazza del Plebiscito, and tasting authentic Neapolitan pizza, climbing the volcano that towers over the city will offer you a whole new perspective.
With the Destination Vesuvius panoramic bus tour by Green Line Tours, you can easily travel from Naples to the volcano’s crater accompanied by an expert guide, enjoying breathtaking views of the sea and the Campanian landscape. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history, legends, and natural power that made Vesuvius one of Italy’s most fascinating symbols.
An unforgettable experience for anyone who wants to complete their Naples day trip surrounded by nature and history. 👉 Book your Destination Vesuvius Tour now and enjoy the stunning panorama of the Gulf of Naples — where the sea, sky, and volcano meet.
Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius: History, Landscapes, and Flavors
If you’d like to visit Pompeii, you don’t necessarily need to stop in Naples first — organizing a day trip from Rome to Pompeii is easier than you think. In just over two hours by train, you can move from the ruins of the ancient Roman city — frozen in time since 79 AD — to the eternal monuments of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia.
Many travelers combine the two cities in one day to experience the dual sides of the Empire: Pompeii as a glimpse into daily life, and Rome as the symbol of power and greatness.
Book your tour from Rome to Pompeii with Green Line Tours to visit both sites stress-free — with comfortable transfers, expert guides, and priority entrances.
A perfect way to dive into Roman history and experience two extraordinary destinations in a single day.
What to Eat in Naples on a Day Trip
A visit to Naples wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its legendary cuisine. Here’s what you absolutely must eat during your day trip to Naples.
Neapolitan Pizza: The Ultimate Must-Try
Your first stop has to be a historic pizzeria. Few cities in the world unite food and culture as harmoniously as Naples.
Order a Margherita or a Marinara, and savor every bite — a soft crust, slightly charred edges, and sweet San Marzano tomatoes kissed by the sun.
Street Food and Traditional Sweets
Between visits, Naples offers countless street food options. Try:
- Pizza a portafoglio, a folded pizza perfect for eating on the go.
- Cuoppo fritto, a paper cone filled with fried delights like crocchè, arancini, zeppoline, and pasta fritters.
- Sfogliatella (riccia or frolla), filled with ricotta cream and candied fruit.
- Babà al rum, soft, spongy, and soaked in rum — a true Neapolitan icon.
For coffee, stop at Gambrinus or one of the city’s historic cafés. In Naples, coffee is a ritual — short, strong, and always served with a glass of water.
Where to Have Lunch in Naples
If you prefer a relaxing break, head to a traditional trattoria to enjoy Naples’ most beloved dishes. Don’t miss:
- Spaghetti alle vongole with a seaside view.
- Eggplant parmigiana, rich and flavorful.
- Neapolitan ragù, slow-cooked for hours as tradition demands.
Many restaurants in the historic center offer affordable set menus, ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to taste authentic local cuisine.
