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Where to Stay in Naples

Where to Stay in Naples

Naples Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels:

    Dormitory beds and private rooms, budget-friendly, often with communal spaces. Find them concentrated near the Central Station and in the Historic Center.

  • B&Bs (Bed & Breakfasts) and Guesthouses:

    Popular in Naples, offering a more personalized experience, often in renovated historic buildings. They range from budget to mid-range.

  • Hotels:

    Naples has choices from small, family-run 1-star hotels to international 5-star luxury properties. These distribute throughout the city.

  • Apartment Rentals:

    Available via platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo, these offer self-catering options. They are good for families or longer stays.

Unique and Specialized Stays

  • Palazzo Hotels:

    These boutique hotels are housed in beautifully refurbished historic palaces. They often showcase Neapolitan art and architecture.

  • Homestay Opportunities:

    Organized homestay programs are less common. However, find private rooms in local homes via rental platforms.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation:

    You will not find these within central Naples. Campgrounds locate on the outskirts, near Pompeii, or along the coast, requiring transport to the city.

  • House Sitting:

    Platforms like TrustedHousesitters offer exchange options for longer stays.

Neighborhood Guide

Pick your Naples accommodation based on the character of its neighborhoods. Each area has a distinct ambiance, proximity to attractions, and safety considerations.

Historic Center

Pros
  • Central to key landmarks
  • Lively, authentic atmosphere
  • Abundant food options
  • Good bus connections
Cons
  • Noisy, crowded, can feel overwhelming
  • Some areas feel less safe at night
  • Higher pickpocketing risk
  • Very dense architecture

Chiaia / Lungomare

Pros
  • Elegant, safe, pleasant for leisurely walks
  • Good shopping and dining
  • Close to the waterfront
  • Quieter ambiance
Cons
  • More expensive
  • Further from some major historic sites
  • Less non-stop transport to some areas
  • Less "authentic" local feel

Vomero

Pros
  • Panoramic views, relaxed and safe environment
  • Good for families, feels less touristy
  • Good transport links via funiculars
  • Leafy streets and good shopping
Cons
  • Less "authentic Neapolitan" feel
  • Requires funicular rides to reach lower urban sights
  • Can feel separated from the city's buzz
  • Higher elevation

Additional Neighborhood Considerations

Piazza Garibaldi/Central Station:

Functions as a transportation hub, convenient upon arrival plus outings. Can be hectic and noisy, with a higher prevalence of petty crime. Find cheaper accommodation options here.

Toledo/Quartieri Spagnoli:

Toledo a main shopping street. The adjacent Spanish Quarters form a dense, labyrinthine area. Very dense, noisy, some areas might feel intimidating, especially at night.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure the best accommodation in Naples, no matter the season. Understand advance booking recommendations and review policies carefully.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-August, major holidays): Book 3-6 months in advance, most importantly for popular areas or specific hotels.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months in advance.
  • Low Season (November-March): More flexibility, with 1 month or less often sufficient. Booking is still recommended for best choice and prices.
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates: Less common for established hotels. Online booking generally competitive. Small B&Bs may offer slight discount for cash in low season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo.
  • Local options: Smaller Guesthouses and guesthouses may provide direct booking on their websites, at times haveing slightly better rates.
  • House/Pet Sitting: TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies: Vary by establishment and booking platform. Always review policies carefully before confirming.

Booking Details

Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices are significantly higher in high season and during major events or holidays.
  • Lowest in the low season.
  • Shoulder season has a balance.
  • Plan accordingly for best value.
Booking Flexibility:
  • Many alternatives include cancellable for free until a specific date.
  • Look for flexible booking terms for peace of mind.
  • Direct bookings sometimes offer additional perks.
  • Compare options across platforms.

Important Booking Reminders

Local Reservation Systems:

Smaller B&Bs and guesthouses may give direct booking on their websites. This can sometimes result in slightly better rates.

Walk-in Rates:

Negotiation is less common for established hotels. Small B&Bs or guesthouses might offer a slight discount for cash payments during low season, but this is not a widespread custom.

Hidden Fees:

Always check if city taxes or other local fees are included in the price. These are usually clearly stated during the booking process.

Accommodation Recommendations

Naples has diverse accommodation recommendations for any traveler. Discover options tailored to different budget levels, family needs, solo adventurers, and those seeking long-term stays or historical significance.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget Stays

Look for hostels and basic B&Bs in the Historic Center or near Piazza Garibaldi. Focus on properties with good reviews for cleanliness and safety, such as those discovered on Hostelworld.

  • Good for short stays and meeting other travelers.
  • Often minimal amenities but central location.
  • Check reviews for atmosphere and security.
  • Prices lower in low season.
Mid-Range Stays

Choose 3-star hotels or well-appointed B&Bs in the Historic Center, Chiaia, or Vomero. Prioritize locations with good transport links or walkability for exploration.

  • Balance of comfort and cost.
  • Often family-run establishments.
  • Look for options including breakfast.
  • Good for couples or small groups.

Luxury & Specialized Stays

Luxury Options

Select 4-5 star hotels in Chiaia, along the Lungomare, or high-end boutique hotels within renovated historical buildings in the Historic Center or Vomero. Consider properties from IHG Hotels for luxury stays.

  • Exceptional service and amenities.
  • Often include bay views or historic charm.
  • Advanced booking recommended for best rooms.
  • Fine dining options often on-site.
Family-Friendly Stays

Apartment rentals with multiple rooms and kitchen facilities make good choices for families. Hotels with family suites or connecting rooms are also useful. Vomero is a good neighborhood due to its quieter, residential feel.

  • More space and flexibility for meals.
  • Look for amenities like laundry facilities.
  • Consider residential areas for a calmer atmosphere.
  • Proximity to parks.

Solo & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Traveler:

    Consider hostels with social common areas. Well-located B&Bs in busy, well-lit regions such as the Historic Center or Chiaia also work. Prioritize safety and positive reviews.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations:

    Apartment rentals (such as on Airbnb or local agencies) are ideal for stays longer than a week. They offer self-catering facilities and a more local living experience.

  • B&B Personalized Experience:

    Numerous B&Bs across Naples, offering a warm and personal stay, often with local insights and a home-cooked breakfast.

  • Location Focus:

    For first-time visitors, staying in the Historic Center keeps you close to many attractions, though it can be noisy. Chiaia offers a more upscale, tranquil experience.

Cultural & Historical Properties

  • Historic Palazzi Stays:

    Many B&Bs and boutique hotels live in historic palazzi (palaces). These present a chance to stay in buildings with significant relating to architecture and cultural heritage.

  • Residenza d'Epoca:

    Look for properties designated as "Residenza d'Epoca" for officially recognized historic residences, often restored with great attention to period details.

  • Unique Architecture:

    Some hotels showcase unique Neapolitan art and architecture, making your stay part of the cultural exploration.

  • Themed Accommodations:

    Certain establishments base their decor or experience on aspects of Neapolitan history or art, offering a thematic stay.

Special Considerations

Piazza Garibaldi Area

This area has unbeatable transport links directly at the main train station and metro lines. It offers budget accommodation however chaotic, noisy, and has a higher prevalence of petty crime. Exercise vigilance here.

  • Best for quick access to trains/buses.
  • Good for outings from Naples.
  • Less charming ambiance.
  • Consider if early departures are planned.
Santa Lucia / Lungomare

This waterfront area near Castel dell'Ovo is scenic, with seafood restaurants and views of the bay. It feels quieter than the Historic Center and has a pleasant setting for evening strolls.

  • Romantic setting.
  • Views of Mount Vesuvius.
  • Walkable to central attractions.
  • Upscale dining options.

Finding Your Ideal Stay

Define Your Priorities

Consider what matters most: budget, location, amenities, or specific ambiance. This narrows down possibilities to considerably.

Read Recent Reviews

Current reviews on booking platforms offer insights into cleanliness, noise levels, service quality, and actual location conditions.

Check Transportation Links

Verify how easy it to get to major attractions and transportation hubs from your chosen accommodation.