Naples can feel a bit chaotic at first glance, but where you stay makes a huge difference. Pick the right neighbourhood and the city suddenly becomes walkable and welcoming. Here’s we show the different areas, their vibes, and some recommended hotels or B&B’s.
I would not reccommend staying in the streets directly around Napoli Centrale train station or the Spanish Quarters. These places can feel a bit rough and not that pleasant to walk around at night.
1. Centro Storico – for history, street life and pizza on your doorstep
- You can walk to most major sights, churches and famous pizzerias.
- Feels very “real”, with daily life happening right in front of you.
- Generally cheaper than seafront luxury areas.
This is Naples’ historic heart, a tangle of narrow streets, crumbling palazzi, shrines on every corner and scooters weaving past tiny bars. You are surrounded by big-hitting sights like Spaccanapoli, underground ruins, ornate churches and some of the city’s most famous pizzerias. It is intense, noisy and wonderfully alive, but that is also its charm. If you want to step out of your door into “this is so Naples” scenes, this is where to be.
You will also find plenty of small B&Bs and apartments scattered through the alleys, often very good value.
Where to stay 🛏️
2. Chiaia – chic and perfect for a luxurious getaway
- Safe, smart and pleasant to stroll around in the evening.
- Excellent restaurants and bars, plus luxury shopping streets.
- Sea views from many hotels and promenades.
Chiaia is the elegant side of Naples. Think designer boutiques, leafy streets, stylish bars and a lovely stretch of waterfront just a short walk away. It feels more polished than the historic centre, without losing that slightly theatrical Neapolitan energy. If you like the idea of popping into wine bars and high-end shops, then returning to a calm, comfortable hotel, Chiaia is a great fit.
Where to stay 🛏️
3. Lungomare & Piazza del Plebiscito – grand seafront hotels and classic views
- Iconic bay views and easy access to the castle and seafront walks.
- A slightly more polished and organised feel than the inner alleys.
- Well placed for taxis, ferries and walking into Chiaia or the centre.
If you picture waking up to a postcard view of Vesuvius and Castel dell’Ovo, this is probably where you are staying. The area around Piazza del Plebiscito and along the Lungomare is lined with stately buildings, wide pavements and some of Naples’ most famous hotels. It feels more formal than the historic centre, but the sea, the castle and the busy promenade keep things interesting.
Where to stay 🛏️
4. Vomero – hilltop calm, views and local neighbourhood feel
- Panoramic views and cooler air in summer.
- More relaxed streets, with a local, everyday feel.
- Still well connected by funiculars and metro.
Vomero sits above the city on a hill, with a more residential, lived-in feel and big views over the bay. You have sights like Castel Sant’Elmo and the Certosa di San Martino, plus tree-lined streets and local shops. It is quieter and cleaner than the centre, popular with locals who want a good quality of life. If you like using public transport and do not mind a funicular ride, it can be a lovely, calmer base.
Where to stay 🛏️
5. Port area – practical for travelling the region
The area around the Port of Naples is not the prettiest part of the city, but it is extremely practical. You are close to the ferry terminals for Capri, Ischia and Procida, as well as cruise ships and some bus links for the Amalfi Coast. It is more about convenience than charm, so think short stays before or after an island trip.
- Perfect for very early ferries or late arrivals from the islands.
- A good option if you only have one night in the city each way.
I usually only recommend staying right by the port if ferry schedules dictate it. Otherwise, I prefer somewhere around Piazza del Plebiscito or Chiaia, which still gives you easy access to boats but a nicer atmosphere for the rest of your time.
Where to stay 🛏️
