Naples Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do & Best Day Trips
Naples is loud, chaotic, gritty — and I absolutely love it!
I’ve visited this city several times, including solo and on cruises, and every time it surprises me. Yes, it’s known for traffic and pickpockets, but it’s also packed with history, incredible views, and the best pizza I’ve ever had.
Set in the heart of the Campania region, Naples is Italy’s third-largest city and a major stop on many Mediterranean cruise itineraries.
The cruise port is just a short walk from the city center, so you can explore at your own pace or hop on a tour to iconic nearby sites like Pompeii, Sorrento and Amalfi Coast.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- What to expect at the Naples cruise terminal
- How to get around
- Best things to do near the port
- Top day trips for cruise visitors
Naples Cruise Port Overview
Where Cruise Ships Dock in Naples
Naples is one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, and cruise ships dock at the Stazione Marittima terminal, located in the southern part of the city. It’s just a short walk to the historic center — you can be exploring in minutes after stepping off the ship.
Most ships dock at Molo Beverello, the main pier right next to the marina. Just 100 meters away is the ferry terminal for Sorrento and Capri, which is handy if you’ve booked your own transport.
Facilities at the Cruise Terminal
The terminal building is large and modern, offering everything cruise passengers might need. Inside, you’ll find:
- A small shopping mall
- Tourist info desks
- ATMs
- Cafés and restaurants
- Restrooms
- A large parking area for tour buses and taxis
It’s easy to find your way around, and helpful staff are usually available to assist. There’s also WiFi in some areas and spots to sit while waiting for tours or shuttles.
🎥 Watch: What to Expect at Naples Cruise Port
Prefer visuals? Here’s a quick look at the Naples cruise terminal, nearby attractions, and how to get around — perfect if it’s your first time visiting.
Getting Around Naples from the Port
Naples cruise port is flat and wheelchair accessible, and you can easily walk into the city center. Just wear comfortable shoes — many streets are uneven or uphill.
If you plan to explore independently, walking and public transport are your best options. The metro station Municipio is less than a 10-minute walk from the terminal. Buses and trams run along Via Nuova Marina, and you can buy TIC transport tickets at tobacco shops, newsstands, or metro stations. Learn more at anm.it.
To reach Napoli Centrale (the main train station for Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Sorrento), take the metro from Municipio to Piazza Garibaldi — the ride takes about 5 minutes. You can also take bus 151 or a taxi, or walk (about 30 minutes).
For day trips, use the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale’s lower level. It connects Naples with Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Sorrento. Check the timetables here.
For a more comfortable ride, the Campania Express offers faster trains with A/C and reserved seats.
If you prefer to skip the logistics, you can book a guided shore excursion that includes transport and a local guide — ideal for Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or even city highlights. You can book these through your cruise line, local tour operators, or trusted platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide, which I highly recommend for their flexibility and reliable reviews.
Another option is to rent a car for the day, especially if you’re traveling with a group or want to explore the Amalfi Coast at your own pace. Rentals are available near the port and at Napoli Centrale station — just make sure you’re comfortable with Italian traffic and narrow roads.
Right outside the terminal, you’ll also find Hop-On Hop-Off buses with stops at major city attractions, which is a great way to see more without navigating public transport.
🛳️ Planning More Cruise Stops in the Med?
Before diving into the best things to do in Naples, grab your copy of my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide — a 200-page PDF packed with practical tips, local insights, and expert recommendations for 45 Mediterranean ports, including Naples, Barcelona, Santorini, Rome, and more.
Whether you love exploring on your own or booking shore excursions, this guide will help you make the most of every port day.
📘 Get the guide here and start planning your next unforgettable cruise adventure!
Best Things to Do in Naples from the Cruise Port
Explore Naples on Foot
Naples is perfect for wandering — and from the cruise port, you can reach the city’s most iconic landmarks in just minutes.
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino) is the first landmark you’ll spot as you exit the terminal. This massive 13th-century fortress with its five towers once served as a royal residence for the kings of Naples, Aragon, and Spain.
Today, it houses a civic museum with art collections from the 15th to 20th centuries and often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
From the castle, it’s a 10-minute walk to Piazza del Plebiscito, one of Naples’ largest and most elegant squares.
It’s flanked by the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, a neoclassical church inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, and the impressive Royal Palace of Naples.
You’ll also see the historic Teatro di San Carlo, Europe’s oldest opera house still in use.
Nearby, you’ll find Galleria Umberto I, a stunning 19th-century glass-and-iron shopping arcade crowned by a massive glass dome.
This free-to-enter public gallery is home to cafés, boutiques, and intricate mosaic floors, worth a quick stop even if you’re not shopping.
For a deeper dive into local life, stroll down Spaccanapoli, the narrow, bustling street that slices through Naples’ historic center. It’s packed with churches, piazzas, street food, and the kind of energy only Naples can deliver.
If time allows, visit Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli), located about 20 minutes from the port. It’s dedicated to the city’s patron saint, San Gennaro, and famous for its dramatic Gothic interior and miraculous “blood liquefaction” ritual.
🧭 Want to explore with a local guide? Check out walking tours of Naples that cover historic streets, hidden gems, and skip-the-line access to top attractions — perfect if you prefer a more in-depth experience during your short stop.
Eat Like a Local
You can’t visit Naples without trying the one thing it’s world-famous for: pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and trust me — it’s hard to go wrong here. Whether you sit down at a famous pizzeria or grab a slice on the go, the flavor is unforgettable.
If you’re up for a walk (about 25 minutes from the port), head to L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, made world-famous by the movie Eat Pray Love. It’s a no-frills spot with just a couple of pizza options, but it’s always packed with locals and tourists, and for good reason.
Di Matteo and Sorbillo are also popular choices known for their mouth-watering margherita and deep-fried street snacks.
If you’re short on time, don’t worry — pizza is delicious practically everywhere in Naples. You’ll find plenty of great takeaway spots near Spaccanapoli and Via Toledo, perfect for a quick slice or the local favorite, pizza portafoglio (folded pizza to eat on the go).
🍕 Want to taste the best of Naples in just a few hours? Join a Naples food tour with pizza, pastries, espresso, and local stories — a must for first-time visitors.
For dessert, try a classic sfogliatella or rum-soaked babà from bakeries like Scaturchio or Mary’s Sfogliatella, both an easy walk from the port.
Do a Little Shopping
Naples is a great city for shopping, even on a short cruise stop. The port is close to some of the city’s best shopping areas, so you won’t need to go far.
Just a 15-minute walk from the terminal, Via Toledo is one of Naples’ main shopping streets — lined with big-name brands, local boutiques, and plenty of spots to grab a coffee or gelato along the way.
For something a little more upscale, head toward Via Chiaia, where you’ll find elegant stores, shoe shops, and Italian fashion labels in a more relaxed setting.
If you’re looking for souvenirs or local gifts, many shops near the port and around Spaccanapoli sell limoncello, handmade crafts, and nativity figurines.
Hidden Gems & City Views
If you have a few hours and want to explore beyond the usual stops, Naples has some unforgettable viewpoints and underground surprises — all within reach from the port.
Castel dell’Ovo is Naples’ oldest standing fortress, built in the 12th century on a small peninsula jutting into the bay. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the port, and entry is free. Climb the towers for stunning views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius — especially beautiful on a clear day.
Castel Sant’Elmo, perched high on Vomero Hill, offers one of the best panoramic views of Naples. Take the funicular from Via Toledo and walk about 10 minutes from the top station. The castle also houses the Museum of Medieval Art. Entrance is around 5€.
For something truly unique, visit the Galleria Borbonica (Bourbon Tunnel) — a 19th-century underground passage built for royal escape, later used as a WWII shelter.
It’s a 25-minute uphill walk from the port, but well worth it. Guided tours take you through eerie tunnels, WWII relics, vintage vehicles, and ancient cisterns. Book in advance for the standard or speleo adventure tour — both are unforgettable.
Another hidden gem is Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea), a guided experience beneath the historic center where you’ll explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins, aqueducts, and hidden passageways.
It’s about a 20-minute walk from the port and makes for a great small-group tour option.
🌄 Want to see a different side of Naples? Check out underground and panoramic tours that include these hidden gems with expert guides and skip-the-line access.
Top Day Trips from Naples (Cruise-Friendly Options)
Pompeii
A visit to Pompeii is one of the most popular day trips from Naples — and it’s totally doable on a cruise stop. Located about 25 km (15.5 miles) from the port, this ancient Roman city was buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving streets, villas, temples, and even an amphitheater frozen in time.
You can visit Pompeii with a guided shore excursion or go independently. If going solo, take the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri (about 30–35 minutes). From the station, it’s a short walk to the ruins.
Expect crowds and lots of walking — wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and book skip-the-line tickets in advance. Trains can get packed, so keep an eye on your belongings.
🏛️ For the best experience, join a small-group Pompeii tour with a licensed guide and skip-the-line access.
Sorrento
Perched on cliffs above the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a charming coastal town about 50 km (31 miles) from the cruise port. Known for its scenic views, lemon products, and artisan shops, Sorrento is a relaxing escape from busy Naples.
You can explore Piazza Tasso, stroll along Via San Cesareo, or enjoy sweeping views from Villa Comunale Park. There’s truly a lot of things to do and see in Sorrento.
To get there, the fastest option is the ferry from Molo Beverello, just a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal (check schedules at alilauro.it). Travel time varies from 35 minutes to 1 hour depending on the ferry.
You can also take a guided tour, a private transfer, or the Circumvesuviana or Campania Express trains from Napoli Centrale. If time is tight, tours are the most efficient and stress-free choice.
🌊 Explore Sorrento tours from Naples for an easy day trip with transport and a local guide.
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations — but with limited time in port, it’s best explored on a guided day tour.
Located about 65 km (40 miles) from Naples, the drive along this UNESCO-listed coastline is slow and winding, but the views of cliffs, villages, and lemon groves are unforgettable.
The charming town of Amalfi is a highlight, with its colorful buildings, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, and shops selling hand-painted ceramics and local limoncello. If time allows, some tours also include Positano, known for its steep streets and seaside views.
Public buses are often delayed and crowded, so they’re not ideal for cruisers. From April to October, you can also reach Amalfi or Positano by ferry via Salerno or Sorrento, though schedules are weather-dependent.
🏞️ For a smooth experience, book an Amalfi Coast tour from Naples with transport and a local guide — it’s the easiest way to enjoy the coast without stress.
Herculaneum
Smaller and quieter than Pompeii, Herculaneum is just 15 km (9.5 miles) from Naples and makes for a perfect half-day trip. Once a wealthy Roman seaside town, it was buried in the same 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
The site is more compact and better preserved than Pompeii, with colorful frescoes, intact mosaics, and highlights like the Samnite House, Men’s Baths, and Hall of the Augustals.
To get there, take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi (15–20 minutes from Naples), then walk 10 minutes to the entrance. Or book a private transfer or small-group guided tour for added comfort.
Mount Vesuvius
Visible from almost anywhere in Naples, Mount Vesuvius is one of the world’s most famous volcanoes — known for the 79 AD eruption that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Today, you can hike to the crater’s rim at 1,000 meters above sea level and enjoy sweeping views over the Bay of Naples.
The hike is moderate, takes about 1.5 hours, and requires good shoes, water, and sun protection. If it’s raining, the crater may be closed.
To visit, take a guided Vesuvius tour, or combine it with Pompeii for a full-day experience. The volcano is around 20 km (12.5 miles) from the cruise port — about a 30-minute drive.
Capri
Often called the Island of Dreams, Capri is one of Italy’s most glamorous day trips. From Naples, ferries take 50 to 90 minutes, departing from Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa, depending on the service.
Once on the island, stroll the lively Marina Grande, visit the Gardens of Augustus, or take a boat tour to the famous Blue Grotto, known for its glowing blue waters. Don’t miss the iconic Faraglioni rocks and panoramic views from Villa San Michele or Villa Jovis — a former Roman emperor’s palace.
In Capri town, explore the charming Piazzetta, lined with boutiques, cafés, and historic sights like the Church of Santo Stefano and Certosa di San Giacomo.
⛵ Explore Capri tours from Naples with ferry tickets and guided sightseeing included — perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.
Final Tips for Visiting Naples from a Cruise
- Currency: Euro (€); credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small purchases.
- Language: Italian, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
- Airport: Naples International Airport is about 7 km (4.3 miles) from the port — around a 20-minute drive.
- Safety: Watch out for pickpockets, especially on public transport and in crowded areas.
- Footwear: Streets can be uneven — wear comfortable shoes.
- Shops & restaurants: Many close midday (1–4 pm), especially outside tourist zones.
- Summer tip: Bring water, sun protection, and a hat — it gets hot!
Naples Cruise Port FAQ
Can I walk into Naples from the cruise port?
Yes, the city center is just a 10-minute walk from the terminal — no transport needed.
Is Pompeii doable in a few hours?
Yes. Book a tour or take the train from Napoli Centrale to Pompeii Scavi station. Plan at least 3–4 hours.
Where’s the best pizza near the port?
Try Sorbillo, Di Matteo, or grab a quick pizza portafoglio on Spaccanapoli.
What’s the best way to visit the Amalfi Coast?
A guided tour or private transfer is best. Public transport is too slow for tight cruise schedules.
Helpful Resources
Useful Links:
- 📍 Google Maps – Naples Cruise Port Location
- 🛳️ Naples Cruise Ship Schedule
- 🌐 Naples Tourism Info
- 🌤️ Local Weather Forecast – Naples
You Might Also Visit These Ports:
If your cruise stops in Naples, you may also visit:
- Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca in Spain
- Livorno, La Spezia, and Civitavecchia (for Florence, Pisa, Rome)
- Marseille, Villefranche, and Cannes in France
- Dubrovnik, Corfu, Kefalonia, and Athens (Piraeus) in the Eastern Med
📘 Don’t forget to check out my Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide for more tips and itineraries!
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
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