Naples Walking Tour with Local American-Italian Guide
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Overview
Walking Tours of Naples in English with an American-Italian Local offer a deep dive into the heart of Naples, guided by someone who knows and loves the city. This isn't just a tour; it's a chance to see Naples through the eyes of a local, with the added comfort of clear English communication.
Explore famous spots like Piazza Dante, Port'Alba, and the lively Spaccanapoli. The guide shares stories about the city's history and culture that most tourists never hear. Choose a standard 3-hour tour or create a custom adventure up to 8 hours long, seeing places like Via Toledo, Chiesa di San Pietro a Majella and Lungomare Partenope. Each tour is made to fit what you want to see and how fast you want to go. From Piazza Bellini, Chiesa della Croce di Lucca to Castel Nuovo, and Via dei Tribunali, every corner has a story.
What to Expect: During the walking tour, participants will explore many of the important religious structures of Naples, including Complesso Museale Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco, Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore, Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore, Complesso Monumentale e Chiesa dei Girolamini, and Chiesa di Santa Maria della Colonna. This walking tour is led by an American-Italian local who speaks fluent English. It includes a private tour experience, but does not include admission fees into any attractions. The tour can accommodate a maximum of 6 people.




Highlights
Customizable Tour Length: Choose a 3-hour standard tour or create your own adventure up to 8 hours.
See Hidden Gems: Discover local secrets and stories beyond the typical tourist spots.
American-Italian Guide: Enjoy a tour led by a local who speaks perfect English.
Small Group Experience: Tours are limited to 6 people for a more personal experience.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally love the walking tour because the guide is very informative and passionate about Naples. They liked seeing the city through the eyes of a local. Some wish there was more time at certain spots.

Customers enjoyed learning about the local culture and history.
The guide's knowledge and passion were appreciated.
Many found the tour personalized and engaging.
Clear communication in English was a plus for many visitors.
Some customers wished for more time at certain locations.
A few found the pace a little fast.
The Journey
Piazza Dante
Begin your Neapolitan adventure in Piazza Dante, a vibrant square dominated by the imposing statue of Dante Alighieri. This lively hub, framed by Baroque architecture, is a perfect meeting point near the historic center. Immerse yourself in the energy of the shops and cafés, and step into the renowned Via Toledo, making it an ideal starting point to explore the city's wonders.
Port'Alba
Step through Port’Alba, a historic 17th-century gate that marks the entrance to the lively Via Port’Alba. Known for its bookshops and music stores, this vibrant street leads to Piazza Bellini. Don't miss the chance to visit Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, reputedly the world’s oldest pizzeria, for a taste of authentic Neapolitan culinary history.
Chiesa di San Pietro a Majella
Discover the Gothic grandeur of Chiesa di San Pietro a Majella, a 13th-century masterpiece in Naples’ historic center. Admire its pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and stunning coffered ceiling adorned with paintings by Mattia Preti. The adjoining convent, home to the prestigious San Pietro a Majella Music Conservatory, preserves Naples’ rich musical heritage, making it a must-see for art and music enthusiasts.
Piazza Bellini
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Bellini, named after composer Vincenzo Bellini, in Naples’ historic center. Surrounded by historic palaces and the visible remnants of ancient Greek walls, this square buzzes with life. Cafés, bars, and cultural landmarks provide the perfect mix of history and nightlife, making it a favorite haunt for students, artists, and locals alike.
Chiesa della Croce di Lucca
Visit the Chiesa della Croce di Lucca on Via dei Tribunali, a Baroque church built by Tuscan Carmelites in the early 16th century. While its exterior façade may be simple, its interior is richly decorated with a wooden coffered ceiling and artworks by Caracciolo. Saved from demolition, this church now serves as a unique venue for cultural events, offering a glimpse into Naples' artistic past.
Via dei Tribunali
Wander down Via dei Tribunali, the main ancient street in Naples' historic center, stretching from Port’Alba to Castel Capuano. Lined with historic churches like the Duomo, San Lorenzo Maggiore, and San Paolo Maggiore, as well as famous sites like Napoli Sotterranea, this street is a treasure trove of history and culture. Don't miss the iconic pizzerias, such as Sorbillo and Di Matteo, for an authentic taste of Neapolitan pizza.
Cappella del Pontano
Step into the serene Cappella del Pontano, a Renaissance chapel built in 1492 by humanist Giovanni Pontano. This funerary monument for his wife features a simple stone façade and a maiolica-tiled floor adorned with portraits and symbols. Inside, a fresco of the Madonna and Child and epitaphs expressing Pontano's grief evoke the spirit of Renaissance humanism in Naples.
Complesso Museale Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco
Explore the Complesso Museale Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco, a Baroque church and museum dedicated to the souls in purgatory. Founded in 1605, this complex features important artworks by Massimo Stanzione and Luca Giordano. Discover the underground chapel where anonymous remains were venerated and a museum filled with liturgical objects and paintings, providing deep insight into Naples' unique religious traditions and art history.
Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore
Discover the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore, a Baroque church built over the ruins of a 1st-century Temple of the Dioscuri. Established in the 8th–9th centuries and renovated in the 16th and 17th centuries, its façade incorporates ancient Corinthian columns. Inside, admire artworks by Massimo Stanzione and Francesco Solimena and visit the tomb of Saint Cajetan, founder of the Theatine order.
Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore
Explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore, founded in the 13th century by King Charles I of Anjou, built atop the ancient Roman forum. Admire its French Gothic and Franciscan architecture, the high altar by Giovanni da Nola, and the tomb of Catherine of Austria. Delve into the Roman market ruins beneath the basilica and visit the museum displaying historic artifacts from the church, connecting you to Naples' layered past.
Complesso Monumentale e Chiesa dei Girolamini
Visit the Complesso Monumentale e Chiesa dei Girolamini, a 16th-century Baroque church and complex founded by the Oratorians. Marvel at the richly decorated interior with its wooden coffered ceiling and sculptures by Giuseppe Sanmartino. Don't miss the Biblioteca dei Girolamini, Naples' oldest public library, housing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, a treasure trove for history and literature enthusiasts.
Chiesa di Santa Maria della Colonna
Visit the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Colonna, a Baroque church built in 1580, once part of a complex that included an orphanage and music conservatory where composer Giovanni Battista Pergolesi studied. Admire the dynamic Baroque façade and the Greek cross plan interior with its dome, stucco decorations, and altarpieces by Paolo De Matteis. Reopened in 2018 after restoration, it now hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Duomo di Napoli
Experience the grandeur of the Duomo di Napoli, also known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, Naples' main cathedral and seat of its Archdiocese. Built between 1294 and 1313, it showcases a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neogothic styles. Witness the annual miracle of the liquefaction of Saint Januarius' blood in the Chapel of the Treasure. Explore the ancient Basilica of Santa Restituta and the Baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte within the complex. This is a must-visit to fully grasp Naples’ religious and artistic heritage.
Via San Gregorio Armeno
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Via San Gregorio Armeno, a historic street famous for its artisan workshops creating handcrafted nativity scenes (*presepi*). Originating from Roman times, this street has become a hub for religious crafts. Visit year-round, especially at Christmas, to witness the unique traditional figurines and experience the heart of Neapolitan artistry. Nearby, explore the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore and the Renaissance Palazzo Mormando.
Statue of the Nile God
Discover the Statue of the Nile God, or 'Body of Naples,' a 2nd–3rd century AD marble sculpture in Piazzetta Nilo. This depiction of a reclining river god, holding a cornucopia and accompanied by a sphinx, symbolizes fertility and prosperity. Erected by the Alexandrian community, this statue reflects Naples' deep historical ties with Egypt and stands as a testament to the city's multicultural past.
Obelisco di San Domenico
Admire the Obelisco di San Domenico, a Baroque monument in Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, erected to thank Saint Dominic for saving the city from the 1656 plague. This towering obelisk, completed between 1656 and 1737, showcases busts of the siren Partenope, medallions representing the city and Spanish rulers, and a bronze statue of Saint Dominic at the top. A key Baroque landmark, its construction involved notable architects like Cosimo Fanzago and Domenico Antonio Vaccaro.
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore
Experience the historical charm of Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, a central square along Spaccanapoli. Admire the Baroque Obelisco di San Domenico, and visit the Gothic Church of San Domenico Maggiore, linked to figures like Thomas Aquinas. Discover the remains of the ancient Porta Cumana beneath the square, once part of Naples’ original Greek walls, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past.
Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore
Step inside the Gothic Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore, built between 1283 and 1324, in Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. Commissioned by King Charles II of Anjou and dedicated to Saint Dominic, the church features a Baroque façade and a Latin cross plan. Inside, explore 27 chapels filled with important artworks, including frescoes by Pietro Cavallini, and admire the Baroque sacristy decorated by Francesco Solimena. This church is a reflection of Naples’ medieval and Baroque heritage and a key cultural landmark.
Chiesa di Santa Marta
Visit the historic Chiesa di Santa Marta, founded in the early 15th century by Margherita di Durazzo. Featuring late Gothic architecture with a barrel-vaulted nave and a 17th-century dome, the church houses notable artworks by Andrea Vaccaro and Luca Giordano. Preserved within its walls are bullet marks from the 1647 Masaniello revolt, connecting visitors to a pivotal moment in Naples' history.
Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara
Explore the Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara, including a Gothic church, monastery, and convent built between 1310 and 1328. Commissioned by King Robert of Anjou and Queen Sancia of Majorca, the complex is renowned for its cloister decorated with colorful maiolica tiles and Italian gardens. Discover royal tombs, a museum with artifacts from WWII bombings, and Roman baths found on site. Located in Naples’ historic center, this site offers a blend of history, art, and tranquility.
Piazza del Gesù Nuovo
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a historic square in central Naples. Marvel at the unique Gesù Nuovo Church with its distinctive stone façade and rich Baroque interior. Visit the nearby Gothic Basilica di Santa Chiara, known for its colorful cloister. Admire the Baroque Obelisk of the Immaculate Conception at the square's center, surrounded by cafés serving traditional Neapolitan food. This is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and local culture.
Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo
Visit the Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, a Baroque church famous for its diamond-point stone façade. Originally a 15th-century palace, it was transformed into a church by the Jesuits in the late 1500s. The interior features a Greek-cross layout adorned with colorful marble, stucco, and frescoes, including Francesco Solimena’s renowned fresco, *The Expulsion of Heliodorus from the Temple.*
Obelisco dell'Immacolata
Admire the Obelisco dell'Immacolata in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a 22-meter tall Baroque obelisk built in 1750. Designed by Giuseppe Genoino and decorated with statues of Jesuit saints, it honors the Virgin Mary. Witness the annual tradition on December 8th, when firefighters place roses on top for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Discover the local legend that the statue’s veil resembles a skull from behind under certain light, adding a touch of mystery to this historic monument.
Spaccanapoli
Wander through Spaccanapoli, a famous narrow street that cuts through the heart of Naples' historic center. This nearly 2 km-long street is brimming with churches, shops, cafes, and the vibrant energy of local life. Experience the authentic Neapolitan culture and history as you stroll through this iconic thoroughfare.
Via Toledo
Explore Via Toledo, a historic 1.2 km street in Naples, constructed in 1536. Renowned for its shopping, cafes, and landmarks like Galleria Umberto I and Palazzo Zevallos, this bustling street connects key city areas. Visit the Toledo Metro Station, celebrated for its artistic design, and experience the dynamic atmosphere of one of Naples’ most famous thoroughfares.
Chiesa di San Nicola alla Carità
Visit the Chiesa di San Nicola alla Carità, a historic church known for its Baroque architecture. Founded in the 17th century, it showcases beautiful frescoes and ornate decorations within its walls. Located near the historic center, this church reflects Naples’ rich religious and artistic heritage, offering a serene escape into the city's past.
Piazza Carità
Discover Piazza Carità, a historic square in central Naples, recognized for its important monuments and surrounding historic buildings like Palazzo Mastelloni. A site of markets, political events, and memorials, this square encapsulates the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, providing a glimpse into Naples’ dynamic past.
Quartieri Spagnoli
Explore the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters), a historic neighborhood created in the 16th century to house Spanish troops. Known for its narrow streets, vibrant local life, and colorful buildings, this area embodies authentic Neapolitan culture. Today, it's a lively district filled with shops, cafes, and street art, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Naples' traditional atmosphere.
Galleria Umberto I
Step into the grandeur of Galleria Umberto I, a historic shopping gallery built between 1887 and 1890 during Naples’ urban renewal. Named after King Umberto I, it features a Latin cross layout with a stunning glass and iron dome. Admire the mosaic zodiac signs on the floor and the Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque design inspired by Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Today, it hosts shops, cafes, and offices, serving as a vibrant cultural and commercial center within Naples’ UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Teatro di San Carlo
Experience the opulence of the Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest continuously active opera house in the world, opened in 1737. Rebuilt in 1817 after a fire, it features a stunning neoclassical interior and has hosted premieres by famous composers like Rossini and Verdi. Attend a performance to immerse yourself in Naples’ rich cultural heritage and the timeless art of opera, ballet, and concerts.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Visit Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest and most famous square, built in the early 1800s. Surrounded by the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola, with a statue of Charles III at its center, this pedestrian area is a hub for events. Enjoy the grandeur and proximity to major attractions like Teatro di San Carlo.
Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola
Admire the Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola, a neoclassical church inspired by Rome’s Pantheon, built in the early 1800s. Located in Piazza del Plebiscito, it features a grand dome, a large colonnade, and an elegant interior with marble columns and notable artworks, showcasing Naples' architectural grandeur.
Palazzo Reale
Explore the Palazzo Reale, a grand historic palace in Piazza del Plebiscito, built in the early 1600s. Once home to Spanish viceroys and Bourbon kings, it features lavish royal apartments, a court theater, and beautiful gardens. Now a museum, it showcases Naples’ royal history, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of its former rulers.
Lungomare Partenope
Stroll along Lungomare Partenope, a scenic seafront promenade stretching from Piazza Vittoria to Castel dell’Ovo. Offering stunning views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and Capri, this pedestrian-friendly area is lined with hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a relaxing walk, savor the sea breeze, and take in the breathtaking city skyline.
Castel dell'Ovo
Visit Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest castle in Naples, located dramatically on the seafront. Built on Roman ruins and fortified in the Middle Ages, this historic castle offers fascinating sites and stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. While entry is typically free, be sure to check its availability, as it is occasionally closed for renovations.
Castel Nuovo
Explore Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, a medieval castle in Naples built in the 13th century. Discover its famous triumphal arch, royal halls, and a museum showcasing medieval and Renaissance art. This key historic and cultural landmark offers a deep dive into Naples’ rich past.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes a private tour guide that is American-Italian and speaks English. Admission fees are not included. Meetup locations are available in the city center. The tour has options of being three hours long or customizable up to eight hours.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Bring water, especially during the warmer months. Be ready to ask questions and engage with the guide to get the most out of the experience.