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How to Get to Naples

How to Get to Naples

Naples Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Air Travel

Naples International Airport NAP

Naples International Airport (Aeroporto Internazionale di Napoli-Capodichino, NAP) acts as the main air gateway to the city and the Campania region. Many airlines operate, offering various routes and connections.

Airlines & Services

  • Numerous European airlines (Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, etc.)
  • Connects Naples to major European cities.
  • Airport facilities include shops, restaurants, Wi-Fi, car rental.

Airport Transfer Options

Various options connect NAP to the central area and accommodation, allowing for a smooth arrival.

Transfer Methods

  • Alibus (Airport Bus Bus): Connects to Central Station and port (~€5).
  • Taxi: Official taxis available, fixed fares to the downtown area (~€20-€25).
  • Private Transfer: Pre-booked car services are an option.

North American Connections

Limited seasonal direct flights operate from cities like New York (EWR), Philadelphia (PHL), and Toronto (YYZ). Most travelers use a connection in Europe.

European Direct Flights

Numerous direct flights link Naples from major hubs like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Munich, connecting easily to Europe.

Seasonal Fare Fluctuations

Flight prices generally peak during the high summer season (June-August) plus national holidays. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) deliver better value.

Air Departure Recommendations

International Flights

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.
  • Complete check-in procedures well in advance.
  • Allow ample time for security screening.
  • Consider luggage drop-off times.

Domestic or Schengen Flights

  • Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic or Schengen flight departure.
  • Timely check-in is important.
  • Proceed through security with sufficient time.
  • Have your travel documents ready.

Flight Booking Resources

Dollar Flight Club

For discovering flight deals and low fares.

Skyscanner

A comprehensive platform for comparing flight options.

AirHelp

Helps passengers with compensation for delayed or canceled flights.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Naples Central Station (Stazione di Napoli Centrale, also Napoli Piazza Garibaldi) serves as a major railway hub. Train connections offer efficient travel across Italy.

Train Options

  • High-Speed Trains (Frecciarossa, Italo) connect to Rome, Florence, Milan.
  • Regional Trains link smaller towns within Campania.
  • Piazza Garibaldi is the main train station.

Long-Distance Buses

Various bus companies operate from Naples to other Italian cities and regions. Italy is part of the Schengen Area, meaning no internal border checks when arriving from another Schengen country.

Bus Travel

  • Companies include FlixBus, Marozzi, Autolinee Curcio.
  • Main bus station near Naples Central Terminal.
  • Standard immigration for non-Schengen arrivals.

Car Rental Essentials

Renting a car offers flexibility for regional exploration. You need a valid national driver's license, and non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP). A credit card in the driver's name is necessary for the deposit.

Rental Information

  • Minimum age (21-25), valid license, IDP for non-EU.
  • Major companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt. DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.
  • Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Driving in Naples

Driving in Naples city center is extremely challenging. Expect narrow, congested streets, aggressive driving, limited parking, and ZTLs (Zones With Restricted traffic). Navigation can be difficult, especially for first-time visitors.

City Driving & Parking

  • Renting a car is generally for day trips outside the city.
  • ZTLs have restricted access; cameras monitor entry.
  • Look for paid parking garages or park outside ZTLs.

Driving Cautions

  • Road Conditions: Major highways are well-maintained (toll roads). City roads are congested, poorly paved.
  • Motorcycles and scooters are prevalent, often weaving through traffic.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Parking Rules: Blue lines indicate paid parking; white lines are free (rare); yellow lines are for residents only.
  • ZTL cameras monitor zones, resulting in heavy fines for unauthorized entry.
  • New drivers have a zero-tolerance alcohol policy; otherwise, the limit is 0.05% BAC.

Sea/River Arrivals

Major Port Services

Naples' strategic position on the bay makes it a significant port for both ferries and cruise ships, providing unique arrival and departure options for exploring the region.

Port Facilities

  • Cruise Port: Stazione Marittima di Napoli.
  • Ferry Ports: Molo Beverello (hydrofoils) and Calata di Massa (slow ferries).
  • Destinations: Capri, Ischia, Procida, Sorrento, Amalfi, Sicily.

Port Procedures & Connections

Standard immigration and customs procedures apply for non-Schengen arrivals at seaports. For arrivals from within Schengen, passport checks usually do not occur. Naples does not offer significant river transportation.

Connectivity

  • Immigration for non-Schengen arrivals.
  • Ports connect into the city's core by Alibus, local buses, taxis, and metro.
  • No significant river transport options.

Bay Islands Access

Regular ferry and hydrofoil services connect Naples to Capri, Ischia, and Procida. These islands are beautiful day trips.

Coastal Connections

Ferries also link Naples to towns on the coast like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, offering scenic routes along the coast.

Cruise Terminal

Stazione Marittima di Napoli serves as a maritime hub for various international cruise lines, welcoming visitors from all over the world.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Naples by understanding exit procedures and timing recommendations. This aids a smooth and stress-free journey home or to your next destination. No particular exit fees or taxes are typically levied on departing travelers from Italy; airport taxes are usually in the airfare.

Timing Advice

  • Air Travel: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for domestic/Schengen.
  • Train Travel: Arrive 15-30 minutes before departure. Validate tickets.
  • Ferry Travel: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure, especially with cars or in peak season.

Airport & Station Facilities

Naples International Airport (NAP) and Naples Central Station offer various facilities for departing travelers, improving comfort before your journey.

Available Services

  • Naples International Airport (NAP): Lounges, duty-free, restaurants, cafes, Wi-Fi.
  • Naples Central Station: Shops, restaurants, waiting areas, luggage storage.
  • Assistance points for travelers with special needs.

Car Rental Return

Return Location

Car rental agencies are located at Naples International Airport (NAP).

Fuel Policy

Confirm your fuel policy; typically return with a full tank to avoid extra charges.

Vehicle Inspection

Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any new damage with an agent present.

Smooth Departure

Confirm all travel details and transfer arrangements before your departure day to avoid last-minute stress.