Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Naples: The Home of Pizza

The mere mention of this vibrant city conjures images of steaming pizzas, passionate locals, and streets steeped in history. As you through the narrow vicoli, the aroma of fresh espresso mingling with the salty sea air will make you wanting more. Naples isn’t just a city; it’s a full-sensory experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

But let’s be real – with over 3.7 million visitors annually, finding the right place to stay can be as challenging as resisting that extra slice of margherita pizza. We’re here to guide you through the city’s top neighborhoods and help you find your perfect Neapolitan base. So, let’s dive into the chaotic beauty of Naples and uncover the best spots to rest your head after a day of exploration.

Table Of Contents

The Top 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Naples
Two Neighborhoods to Avoid
Conclusion

The Top 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Naples

1. Centro Storico: The Historic Heart

The Centro Storico (Historic Center) is where Naples truly comes alive. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this maze of narrow streets and grand piazzas is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Naples Cathedral and the famous Spaccanapoli street. Staying here means immersing yourself in the authentic Neapolitan lifestyle, with the best pizza joints, espresso bars, and artisan shops right at your doorstep.

Best places to stay in Naples’ Centro Storico:

Solo Travel: Decumani Hotel de Charme. A beautifully restored 18th-century palazzo offering comfort and character in the heart of the old town.
Budget-Friendly: B&B Medea. Cozy rooms and warm hospitality at wallet-friendly prices, steps away from major attractions.
Couples Escape: Palazzo Caracciolo Napoli – MGallery. Romantic luxury in a historic palace, perfect for couples seeking a blend of history and modern comfort.
Family-Friendly: Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments. Spacious family rooms and apartments in a quirky, art-filled hotel close to key sights.
Group Travel: Domus Municipio. Stylish apartments ideal for groups, offering independence in a central location.
High-End Luxury: Grand Hotel Vesuvio. Opulent rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and breathtaking bay views for the ultimate Neapolitan experience.

2. Chiaia: Elegance by the Sea

Chiaia is Naples’ upscale seaside district, known for its designer boutiques, chic cafes, and beautiful waterfront promenade. This neighborhood offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the bustling historic center, making it perfect for those who want to experience Naples’ sophistication and natural beauty.

Best places to stay in Naples’ Chiaia neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Exe Majestic. Contemporary comfort in a prime location, ideal for solo travelers looking for style and convenience.
Budget-Friendly: Hotel Mergellina. Clean, comfortable rooms at reasonable prices, with easy access to the seafront and public transport.
Couples Escape: Partenope Relais. Romantic boutique hotel with stunning sea views, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful retreat.
Family-Friendly: Royal Continental Hotel Naples. Spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and family-friendly amenities in a fantastic seafront location.
Group Travel: Residenza Carlo III. Elegant apartments suitable for groups, offering a home-away-from-home experience in Chiaia.
High-End Luxury: Romeo Hotel. Ultra-modern luxury with a Michelin-starred restaurant and spectacular views of the Bay of Naples.

3. Vomero: Hillside Haven

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Vomero is Naples’ leafy, residential district. Known for its air of sophistication, excellent shopping, and panoramic views, this neighborhood offers a respite from the intensity of the city center while still being just a short funicular ride away from the action.

Best places to stay in Naples’ Vomero neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Hotel Cimarosa. Comfortable rooms in a quiet setting, perfect for solo travelers seeking tranquility.
Budget-Friendly: B&B Vomero. Charming, affordable accommodation with a homey atmosphere and friendly hosts.
Couples Escape: Weekend a Napoli. Intimate B&B with uniquely decorated rooms, ideal for couples looking for a romantic hideaway.
Family-Friendly: Hotel San Francesco al Monte. Unique hotel in a former monastery, offering spacious rooms and a rooftop pool with incredible views.
Group Travel: Vittoria House. Well-equipped apartments perfect for groups, providing a local living experience.
High-End Luxury: Grand Hotel Parker’s. Classic luxury with a renowned rooftop restaurant and unparalleled views of the Bay of Naples.

4. Santa Lucia: Postcard-Perfect Naples

Santa Lucia is a picturesque waterfront neighborhood that offers the Naples of your dreams – colorful buildings, bobbing fishing boats, and views of Vesuvius across the bay. It’s home to the iconic Castel dell’Ovo and numerous seafood restaurants, making it perfect for those seeking a maritime flavor.

Best places to stay in Naples’ Santa Lucia neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Residenza Echia. Cozy B&B with friendly staff and beautiful sea views, ideal for solo adventurers.
Budget-Friendly: La Terrazza su Napoli. Affordable guesthouse offering simple rooms and a lovely terrace overlooking the bay.
Couples Escape: Eurostars Hotel Excelsior. Luxurious rooms with balconies overlooking the Bay of Naples, perfect for romantic getaways.
Family-Friendly: Relais sul Mare. Spacious family suites in a historic building, steps away from the seafront.
Group Travel: Transatlantico. Modern apartments with kitchen facilities, great for groups wanting independence.
High-End Luxury: Grand Hotel Santa Lucia. Elegant 4-star hotel with classic decor and stunning sea views for a truly luxurious stay.

5. Quartieri Spagnoli: The Real Naples

Once avoided by tourists, the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters) have undergone a renaissance in recent years. This grid of narrow streets offers a slice of authentic Neapolitan life, with washing lines strung between buildings, tiny restaurants serving home-style cuisine, and vibrant street art. It’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s utterly captivating.

Best places to stay in Naples’ Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood:

Solo Travel: Fiorentini Residence. Modern rooms in a historic building, offering a blend of local flavor and comfort.
Budget-Friendly: Robby’s House. No-frills guesthouse with clean rooms and a fantastic location for exploring on a budget.
Couples Escape: Toledo Loft. Stylish loft apartments perfect for couples wanting a local experience with modern amenities.
Family-Friendly: Loft 68. Spacious, well-equipped apartments ideal for families looking to live like locals.
Group Travel: La Dimora dei Baroni. Beautifully restored townhouse with multiple apartments, great for larger groups.
High-End Luxury: Artemisia Domus. Luxurious rooms and suites in a historic palazzo, offering an upscale experience in the heart of the quarters.

Two Neighborhoods to Avoid

1. Gianturco: While it’s close to the central station, Gianturco is an industrial area lacking in charm and tourist amenities. It’s not unsafe, but there are far better options for experiencing the real Naples.

2. Scampia: Made infamous by the TV show “Gomorrah,” Scampia is a suburban area far from the city center. While efforts are being made to improve its reputation, it’s not a suitable base for tourists and lacks the attractions that make Naples special.

Conclusion

Naples is a city that gets under your skin – in the best possible way. From the historic grandeur of Centro Storico to the seaside elegance of Chiaia, the hilltop tranquility of Vomero to the authentic buzz of Quartieri Spagnoli, each neighborhood offers a unique slice of Neapolitan life. Whether you’re here for the world-famous pizza, the rich history, or simply to experience the passionate embrace of southern Italian culture, finding the right place to stay will enhance your Neapolitan adventure.

Remember, the best way to experience Naples is to dive in headfirst. Wander the streets, chat with locals, and let the city’s infectious energy sweep you off your feet. So book your perfect Neapolitan accommodation, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some stretchy pants for all that pizza), and prepare to fall in love with one of Italy’s most vibrant and authentic cities. Benvenuti a Napoli!

Visiting other parts of Italy? Check out our other ‘Best Towns and Neighborhoods to Stay’ pages for a deeper look into the different regions and cities across Italy!