A Day Trip to Naples from Rome is Totally Worth Your Time

Planning a day trip to Naples from Rome? If you’re dreaming of tasting the world’s best pizza for the first time, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Why Visit Naples?

Naples (Napoli) is a beautiful city and a gateway to other incredible attractions like the Amalfi Coast, Mount Vesuvius, and the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. While one day isn’t enough to explore everything nearby, you can still enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, indulge in the world’s best pizza, and start planning a longer visit next time.

Most travelers start their Italy adventure in Rome, and it’s no surprise! Every trip to Italy should include at least a couple of days exploring the nation’s capital and most famous city.

But eventually, your time in the Eternal City has to end. You’ll need to know how to get to your next stop when it does. If you’re considering heading to Naples and the Amalfi Coast, keep reading to find out how to get there from Rome.

Is it possible to do a day trip to Naples from Rome?

A day trip to Naples from Rome is really easy, thanks to the fast and frequent trains running from early morning to late evening. However, Naples is Italy’s third-largest city, with plenty to see and do, both in the town and nearby. It’s worth spending at least a few days exploring.

If you’re going to be in Rome, then you might be interested in other day trips from Rome so you can easily see if they’re worth your time when you’re there.

How to get from Rome to Naples Italy

The quickest and easiest way to travel from Rome to Naples is by high-speed train. Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa trains leave several times an hour from Rome’s Termini train station and take you straight to Napoli Centrale station in the heart of Naples.

The first train leaves as early as 7:00 am, and the last one runs around 11:00 pm. The trip takes just over an hour, and buying your tickets in advance can cost as little as 15 euros. Another train company, Italotreno, also runs two trains per hour with the same 1-hour travel time.

It’s that simple—in just an hour from Rome, with minimal hassle, you’ll step out into the lively streets of Naples!

From Roma Termini Station to Napoli Centrale Station

• Travel Time: 1 hour
• Cost: 10-30 euros
• Book Online: Trenitalia or Italo

Naples is about 223 km (140 miles) south of Rome, and taking the train is the easiest and most comfortable way to get there. Two train companies run this route: Trenitalia, the national rail service, and Italo, a private company. Both use the same tracks and stations.

Numerous daily departures run from Rome’s Roma Termini and Tiburtina stations to Naples’ Napoli Centrale station. Trains start around 6 or 7 am and run until almost 11 pm, departing every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the train type, the journey can take between 1 and 3 hours.

• Trenitalia Frecciarossa: The fastest option, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Prices start at €35.90 each way if you book in advance.
• Intercity Train: Takes around 2 hours and costs €27 each way. A bit slower, but more budget-friendly.
• Regional Train: The slowest option, taking 2 hours 45 minutes to 3+ hours, with prices ranging from €12.65 to €14.80 depending on stops.

What to do in Naples

Naples is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively culture. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Naples has plenty to see and do. And if you’re looking for more help planning your trip, here’s a helpful one day itinerary for Naples. Here are some top activities and attractions to consider.

1. Explore the Historic Center (Centro Storico)

• Spaccanapoli: Walk along this famous narrow street that slices through the heart of the historic center. It’s lined with churches, shops, and cafes and offers a glimpse into everyday life in Naples.
• Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro): Visit the Duomo, home to the Chapel of San Gennaro. The cathedral combines architectural styles, reflecting the city’s layered history.
• Napoli Sotterranea: Take a tour of the underground Naples, where you can explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins beneath the city streets.

2. Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum

This world-class museum houses an impressive collection of Greco-Roman artifacts, including many treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Highlights include the Farnese collection of sculptures and the famous Alexander Mosaic. There are several other museums in Naples to check out too.

3. Discover Pompeii and Herculaneum

• Pompeii: Just a short train ride from Naples, Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Walk through the preserved streets of this ancient city, destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
• Herculaneum: Smaller but better preserved than Pompeii, Herculaneum offers a more intimate glimpse into ancient Roman life. It’s also easily accessible from Naples.

4. Savor Neapolitan Cuisine

• Pizza: Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and trying a classic margherita or marinara pizza is a must. Famous pizzerias like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele and Sorbillo are legendary.
• Street Food: Don’t miss local street food like sfogliatella (a sweet pastry), cuoppo (a cone of fried seafood or snacks), and babà (a rum-soaked cake).
• Coffee: Enjoy a strong, rich Neapolitan espresso at one of the city’s historic cafes, such as Caffè Gambrinus.

5. Explore the Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)

Located in Piazza del Plebiscito, this grand palace was the residence of the Bourbon kings. You can explore lavish rooms, royal apartments, and stunning artworks inside.

6. Take in the Views from Castel dell’Ovo

This seaside fortress offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The castle is full of history, and the surrounding area is perfect for a stroll.

7. Stroll Through Piazza del Plebiscito

The Royal Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola flank one of Naples’ largest squares, Piazza del Plebiscito. It’s a great spot to relax and people-watch.

8. Visit the Church of San Domenico Maggiore

This beautiful church in the heart of the historic center is a fine example of Gothic architecture. It also houses important works of art and the tombs of several members of the Aragonese royal family.

9. Wander Through the Quartieri Spagnoli

The Spanish Quarters are a maze of narrow streets full of life, color, and character. This area is excellent for understanding Naples’ authentic, gritty charm. While it’s a bit rough around the edges, it’s a unique part of the city’s identity.

10. Visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro

Explore these ancient underground burial sites, which offer a fascinating look into early Christian history. The catacombs are expansive and well-preserved, with impressive frescoes and tombs.

11. Shop and Eat Along Via Toledo

This bustling street is one of Naples’ main shopping areas, lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy the lively atmosphere.

12. Enjoy the Views from Vomero

Head up to the Vomero district for panoramic views of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery turned museum, and Castel Sant’Elmo, a fortress, are both located here and offer some of the best views in the city.

13. Marvel at the Art in Cappella Sansevero

This small chapel is home to one of Naples’ most famous sculptures, the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino. The chapel also contains other incredible artworks steeped in mystery and symbolism.

Of course, there are so many things to do in Naples it will be difficult to narrow down your list!

Best Food in Naples Italy

• Pizza: The original Neapolitan pizza is a must. My top picks are L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele and Gino Sorbillo. Both are fantastic, so try both if you can! Don’t miss Fried Pizza at Starita.

  Eat, Pray, Love features Julia Roberts eating at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in a memorable scene filmed in Naples.

• Portafoglio Pizza: A folded pizza you can eat on the go—a delicious and portable option.
• Ragù: A slow-cooked meat sauce that’s a Neapolitan specialty. Tandem Ragù is a great place to try it.
• Sfogliatella: A sweet, flaky pastry, perfect with a strong Neapolitan espresso. Try one at Gran Caffè Gambrinus.
• Espresso: Neapolitan espresso is strong and flavorful. Look for Kimbo coffee at local bars.

FAQ’s

Final Thoughts

Naples is a true Italian experience. It’s less touristy than Rome, and I fell in love with the pizza! If you really want to visit only for a day, then make sure you go!

If you need some visual inspiration, add some of these movies set in Italy to your watchlist while you plan your trip!

XOXO,
Katie

Further Reading about Visiting Naples

I’ve visited Naples and have put together a number of guides to help you make the most out of your time in the coastal city. I’ve also visited other parts of Italy and I’ve included some of those posts, too, along with some other resources I think you’ll find useful.

I have a guide to spending 1 day in Naples as well and 2 days in Naples, which should help you plan your time effectively to make the most of this city.

I also have a guide on the top things to do in Naples in general. If you’re planning to stay in Naples, check out my guide to all of the best neighborhoods. I also have a list of day trip options from Naples.

You can’t visit Naples without know what to pack – read all of my packing tips for Italy.

Our time in Naples was a part of a longer vacation throughout Italy. You can read our seven day Italy itinerary to help you plan a longer trip.

Beyond Naples, we have a two day guide to Rome, suggested things to do in Rome, and some of the must see attraction in Vatican City.

If you’re looking for some more travel inspiration, check out my list of movies set in Italy and the most romantic destinations in Italy!