Naples
Naples, Italy, is a vibrant and historic port city on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, a place of remarkable energy and a rich cultural heritage. As the birthplace of pizza and a city with a history that dates back to the Greek era, Naples is a fantastic destination for cruisers who want to explore a city that is authentic, chaotic, and full of life. The port is a gateway to the volcanic landscapes of Mount Vesuvius, the ancient city of Pompeii, and the stunning Amalfi Coast.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Molo Angioino, the main cruise terminal in Naples. This is a huge advantage, as you can walk right off the ship and into the terminal building, which is located in the heart of the city's waterfront. The walk to the city center is short, about 5-10 minutes, and is on a flat, well-paved surface.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Stazione Marittima is a large, permanent, and well-equipped building. It is a historic building that was built in 1936 and is known for its stunning Art Deco architecture. The terminal is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your needs.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal. You will find public Wi-Fi available in the terminal building, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Italian. While English is spoken in the main tourist areas, it is not as universally spoken as in some other European ports. It is a good idea to have a few basic Italian phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
· Ciao (chow) - Hello/Goodbye
· Grazie (GRAH-tsee-eh) - Thank you
· Per favore (pehr fah-VOH-reh) - Please
· Dov'è...? (doh-VEH) - Where is...?
· Quanto costa? (KWAHN-toh KOH-stah) - How much does it cost?
💰 Money
The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases from street vendors or for bus tickets. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city. Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals.
🚗 Transportation
Naples' city center is very walkable, but to get to the main attractions outside the city, you will need transportation.
· Walking: The best way to explore Naples is on foot. The Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings, is all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminal.
· Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The rates are regulated, but it is still a good idea to get an estimate of the cost before you begin your journey. Taxis are a good option for a group.
· Metro: The Naples Metro is a great way to get around the city. The metro station is a short walk from the cruise terminal, and you can buy a ticket from a kiosk or a machine at the stop.
· Tours: A great way to see the region is to take a pre-arranged tour. Many tours will take you to the volcanic Mount Vesuvius, the ancient city of Pompeii, or the stunning Amalfi Coast.
♿ Accessibility
Naples has an accessibility rating of 3 out of 10. While the cruise port is modern and accessible, the city's streets can be a challenge. The Old Town has narrow, winding streets with uneven surfaces and many stairs, which can be difficult to navigate. The main attractions, like Pompeii, have some accessible sections, but the terrain is often uneven and challenging.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the city center from the cruise port is to simply walk. The port is located very close to the city center, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are not very common in Naples. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
· Farmacia della Stazione Marittima: Calata Porta di Massa, Naples, Italy. This is located in the cruise terminal.
· Farmacia Dott.ssa Rosaria Di Capua: Via A. De Gasperi, 14, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy.
✨ Authentic Experience
1. Dine on a Local Neapolitan Pizza: Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and it is a must-try. Seek out a local pizzeria and order a classic Neapolitan pizza with a thin crust and fresh ingredients. It's a true taste of the city's culinary heritage.
2. Walk the Old Town (Centro Storico) and Explore the Spaccanapoli: The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. For a taste of the city's unique charm, get lost in the maze of streets. The Spaccanapoli, which means "Naples splitter," is a famous street that runs through the heart of the Old Town.
3. Visit the Naples Archaeological Museum: For a deep dive into the region's history, visit the Naples Archaeological Museum. It houses an incredible collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. It is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Roman history.
