Cruise port Naples (Italy) - tips from an experienced traveler
Naples is a city of contrasts, energy, and passion. It ranks 6th among Mediterranean cruise ports in terms of passenger traffic. In 2023 alone, 518 cruise liners and 1,774,338 passengers arrived here. Naples remains one of the most popular ports for stops on routes through Southern Italy.
Where Cruise Liners Dock
The Stazione Marittima cruise terminal is right in the heart of Naples - near Castel Nuovo and Municipio Square. Most attractions are within walking distance from here. The terminal itself is modern, with cafes, ATMs, rest areas, and free Wi-Fi. The building offers a stunning view of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
What to See Within Walking Distance
If you have a few hours before departure, there are plenty of interesting places nearby:
- Castel Nuovo - the city's symbol, built in the 13th century, is right across from the terminal.
- Piazza del Plebiscito - the city's main square, surrounded by the Palace and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.
- Galleria Umberto I - an elegant 19th-century arcade with a glass roof, reminiscent of Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
- Spaccanapoli Quarter - the historical heart of the city, where you can feel the true spirit of old Naples.
Buses and Hop-on Hop-off
A Hop-on Hop-off bus with audio guides in your language operates in the city. The ticket costs around €26. Route "A" goes up to Capodimonte Hill, the National Museum, and the Capodimonte Gallery, offering panoramic views of the city and Vesuvius. Route "B" covers the coastal part of Naples. However, it's easier and cheaper to use public transport - Google Maps shows routes in real-time.
City Video Presentation
Attractions Around Naples
Many cruisers find Naples a bit chaotic and prefer using it as a base for trips to the surrounding areas - and that's a great choice! Nearby are three gems of Southern Italy: Pompeii, Capri, and Herculaneum.
Trip to Pompeii
Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. You can reach it by bus #5000 from the SITA company (stop at Piazza Immacolatella across from the terminal). The cost is €2.80, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.
Another option is the Circumvesuviana train to POMPEI SCAVI – Villa dei Misteri station. The ride takes 35 minutes. Important: trains depart not from the main Napoli Centrale station but from Porta Nolana station (2 km from the port). You can walk or take tram #1, 4, or buses #151, 154 to get there.
Herculaneum - Pompeii Alternative
The city of Herculaneum (Herculaneum) is closer - just 17 minutes on the same train, to ERCOLANO SCAVI station. The city is more compact and well-preserved. The entrance ticket costs €11. Exploring under the sun can be tiring - remember to bring water and a hat.
Trip to Capri Island
You can reach Capri by high-speed hydrofoil (45 minutes) or ferry (50–80 minutes). Schedules and prices are available here. Hydrofoils depart from Molo Beverello (left of the terminal), while ferries depart from Calata Porta di Massa (right). Many tourists recommend the ferry - less rocking and a beautiful view of the coast.
Be sure to visit the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra). The tour costs around €13, but there may be long queues, and the walk itself is short. The Capri beach is to the right of the pier.
You can transfer from Capri to Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi by ferry and return to Naples by bus or train.
Other Routes
- Ischia Island - a thermal resort with hot springs and beaches. Ferries depart from Naples, schedule available here.
- Reggia di Caserta - the Italian "Versailles" built by the Bourbons. Take the train from Napoli Centrale station (40 minutes), ticket - €12.
Beaches and Relaxation
The nearest beach is in the Posillipo area, about 5 km to the west. You can take buses #140 or N1 to get there. The beach is small, but the views are stunning - the bay, yachts, and Vesuvius.
Getting to the Port
If your cruise starts in Naples, the journey from Capodichino Airport will take only 15–20 minutes. The distance is 6 km. You can take a taxi or the Alibus bus to Garibaldi Square (Napoli Centrale station), ticket - €3. Then take tram #1 to the terminal.
From Rome to Naples
It's often more cost-effective to fly to Rome and then take a train. High-speed trains Frecciarossa and Italo run from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale in 1 hour 10 minutes. Tickets start from €19 with early booking on Trenitalia, and around €43 on the day of travel.
