From our editorial team
Naples is known for many things - the divine food, the eventful history, the vibrant culture, the mighty Mount Vesuvius. Hardly anyone talks about the local underground railway, but it has long been one of the most spectacular in the world. When you are overwhelmed on the escalator...
The "Metro dell'Arte" project has turned Naples into one of the most impressive urban art experiences in the world. More than 250 works of art are displayed along the various stations - and the stations themselves are extraordinary works of art in their own right: Naples' metro is the world's largest museum of contemporary art underground. The underground station as a cultural site and new hotspot for world tourism. 15 stations have already been converted, with more to follow.
Naples stop where you feel the sea
The Toledo stop
One of the most spectacular stops is Toledo station in the Spanish Quarter - here you can feel the sea, in the truest sense of the word. A 40 metre deep, spectacular light channel by Spanish artist Oscar Tusquets Blanca connects the underground shaft with the surface of the earth. The "Olas", the waves made of thousands of blue mosaic tiles on the ceiling and walls, let you feel the waves on the escalator.
US artist Robert Wilson has designed the interior of the tunnel with light harmonies in turquoise-blue that give you the feeling of being drawn into the canal. A few metres further on, his installation "By the sea...you and me" gives you the feeling of walking through water. This is made possible by a special printing technique on two very long LED light boxes, which creates the impression of movement when you change the viewing angle.
Why "Garibaldi" and "Chiaia" are worthwhile
Garibaldi", the underground station at the main railway station in Naples, is a completely different kind of spectacular: the futuristically designed station has "floating" escalators that cross over each other in an offset pattern. The whole thing is surrounded by mirrors - a surreal atmosphere in which everything blurs together. French star architect Dominique Perrault allows daylight to penetrate through the open-air construction to a depth of around 40 metres. We haven't even mentioned the works of art on display on site.
The Chiaia metro station in the neighbourhood of the same name, which looks like a sacred gallery thanks to Italian star architect Uberto Sioloa, was only completed in July 2024. The upper entrance is covered by a glass dome, through which light falls some 40 metres down to the tracks. The traveller is greeted by a figure of Jupiter with 24 arms - the patron saint of travellers - before descending the spectacular shaft via a spiral staircase. A verse by Ovid is engraved: "Est in aqua dulci non invidiosa voluptas" (translated: In pure water lies a pleasure that no one envies). The lower area is decorated in green and houses an exhibition of large reproductions from the National Archaeological Museum, almost cathedral-like.
There is an ancient temple at the cathedral stop
The "Duomo" station caused a sensation even before it was completed. During the excavation work for the construction of the station, parts of the temple of the Isolympic Games, which were founded by Augustus in 2 AD, were discovered. Numerous artefacts were discovered, including inscriptions in Greek, including the names of the winners of the games. This discovery had a decisive influence on the design of the art centre.
The descent to the platforms at a depth of 40 metres is clad with steel coatings in which hexagonal geometries are illuminated in different colours throughout the day. The station is designed like a walk through the day, with daylight coming through the spectacular glass dome at the very top, followed by illumination ranging from blue to the orange of sunset. A work of art by the Italian star architect couple Doriana and Massimiliano Fuksas The walk through the day is symbolised in this way. A huge glass dome towers over the temple, which also lets light into the underground station. The temple and museum area are located on an intermediate level.
Great art from 1.50 euros
Since 2001, all new stops on the transport network have been built as aesthetic works of art. The art stations are managed and maintained by the Academy of Fine Arts of Naples together with the local public transport provider Azienda Napoletana Mobilità (ANM).
Today, the art metro from Naples is considered one of the most spectacular underground railways in the world, such as in Moscow, Shanghai or Dubai. You probably won't find so much art cheaper anywhere else: a single journey currently costs 1.50 euros, a day ticket 4.50 euros.
- Travel tipThe metro stations are so intense and rich that a guided tour is highly recommended for art lovers.
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Naples: the living soul of southern Italy
Naples is wild, Naples is passionate - Naples is probably the most exciting city in Italy. You cry twice in Naples, says a Napolitan proverb: once when you arrive and once when you leave. Naples swallows you up - you'll know what that means once you've been there...
With its rich history, unmistakable charm and unique blend of tradition and modernity, Naples is a fascinating destination for explorers who want to experience authentic Italy. The city is chaotic, lively and full of contrasts - and that's exactly what makes it so irresistible. And we haven't even mentioned the food yet...
Cultural heritage and living history
Naples, whose name comes from the ancient Greek "Neapolis" (new city), was once one of the largest cities in Europe and the capital of southern Italian kingdoms. Today, this rich past is reflected in the historic streets, magnificent palaces and majestic churches. The entire historic centre, a labyrinth of narrow streets, lively squares and baroque churches, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.
Visitors can explore architectural masterpieces such as Castel dell'Ovo and Castel Nuovo, which have defended the city and housed ruling dynasties over the centuries. Beneath the city lies "underground Naples": a network of tunnels, caves and catacombs dating back to antiquity that can be explored on guided tours.
Cityscape full of contrasts
Naples is a city of contrasts. In the wealthy districts such as Chiaia and Posillipo, luxury villas and designer boutiques line the streets, while the old town and neighbouring districts are buzzing with life. Here, laundry is strung across the narrow alleyways and there is a lively hustle and bustle that shows the authentic soul of Naples. Spaccanapoli, the dead-straight main street of the old town, is the perfect place to experience the real Naples: street cafés, arts and crafts and the inevitable nativity scenes for which the city is famous.
Delicacies from the Neapolitan kitchen
Naples is the home of pizza, and no visit would be complete without a taste of authentic Neapolitan pizza with its thick, airy crust and fresh ingredients. The city offers a variety of pizzerias, from legendary addresses such as "L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele" to small, family-run eateries. But Naples has even more to offer in culinary terms: Sfogliatelle, crispy puff pastry pockets filled with ricotta, are a sweet highlight that should not be missed.
The city's traditional restaurants and trattorias are dominated by simple but flavourful dishes with fresh seafood, tomatoes and local olive oil. Whether in an elegant beach bar with a view of Mount Vesuvius or in a small taverna in a side street, Naples is a paradise for foodies.
Vesuvius and the coast - natural wonders on your doorstep
Vesuvius, one of the most famous volcanoes in the world, is just a few kilometres from the city centre. A climb to the crater rim rewards you with a spectacular view of the city and the Gulf of Naples. Adventure-seekers can explore the volcano on guided tours and get an idea of the untamed power of nature that is omnipresent in this area.
The Gulf of Naples also offers some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Italy. A day trip to the Amalfi Coast with its picturesque villages such as Positano and Amalfi or a visit to the islands of Capri and Ischia can easily be organised from Naples. These places are known for their breathtaking landscapes, luxurious resorts and stylish boutiques - perfect destinations for a relaxing day by the sea.
Life in Neapolitan: a city that moves
Naples is loud, colourful and full of life. The Neapolitans are proud of their city, their culture and their traditions. Despite the challenges the city has faced in the past - from economic problems to the dark side of the Camorra - Naples remains a city that is constantly reinventing itself. In recent years, Naples has developed into an up-and-coming tourist destination with creative projects and a flourishing art scene.
The Teatro San Carlo, one of the oldest opera houses in the world, attracts music lovers from all over the world, while street musicians and artists enchant passers-by in the alleyways of the historic centre. Festivals, markets and cultural events take place all year round, making Naples a city that never stands still.
Conclusion: Experience and learn to love Naples
Naples is the perfect destination for travellers between 30 and 50 who appreciate authentic experiences and are not afraid to discover the true face of a city. Here, tradition and modernity meet, the chaos of the big city combines with breathtaking nature and an unrivalled history. Whether on a stroll through the historic centre, a boat trip on the Gulf of Naples or a glass of wine with a view of Mount Vesuvius - Naples will captivate you with its unadulterated joie de vivre and charm. Come to Naples and let yourself be enchanted by this unique city!
