Naples Walking Tour with Special Access to Underground Ruins
Explore the historic city center and descend into its hidden ancient world
Organizing a visit to Naples that goes beyond the basics can be challenging—especially if you want to experience both the vibrant streets and the city’s underground. This guided walking tour makes it easy, combining top highlights into a single, immersive experience. Explore the historic center with a local expert, then descend into Neapolis Sotterrata, the Roman ruins beneath San Lorenzo Maggiore. With a small group and rich storytelling, you'll discover the real Naples—above and below ground.
- Meeting point at Piazza Municipio
- Naples’ historic center
- Church of Gesù Nuovo
- Spaccanapoli
- San Gregorio Armeno
- Local and historical insights
- Underground Naples
- Monumental district
- Ending point
Start your journey in Piazza Municipio, where your local guide will lead you through the vibrant heart of Naples. Explore the historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage site—where ancient Greek, Roman, and Baroque layers intertwine. Walk along lively Spaccanapoli, admire the Church of Gesù Nuovo, and stop at Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the artisan-filled Via San Gregorio Armeno.Then, head underground to Neapolis Sotterrata for a guided tour through ancient Roman streets hidden beneath San Lorenzo Maggiore.
Back on the surface, discover Naples’ monumental highlights, including Castel Nuovo, Galleria Umberto I, Teatro di San Carlo, and the Royal Palace in Piazza del Plebiscito. The tour ends where it began, leaving you with a deeper connection to the soul of Naples—both above and below ground.
Naples Walking Tour with Special Access to Underground Ruins Description
Your 3-hour guided tour includes:
Professional, licensed English-speaking local guide
Entry ticket to the Underground Roman ruins (Neapolis Sotterrata)
Guided tour of Naples' historic center
Stop at Piazza del Gesù, Spaccanapoli, San Gregorio Armeno, and more
Exploration of the monumental area
Small group experience with maximum 16 people
Explore Naples
Your adventure begins in Piazza Municipio, the heart of Naples, where you'll meet your guide. From here, you'll set off on a journey through the city's historic core, one of the oldest continuously inhabited urban centers in Europe. As you stroll through buzzing piazzas and narrow alleys, your guide will share the fascinating history of Naples, tracing its Greek and Roman origins. You’ll pass by monumental churches such as Gesù Nuovo,—famous for its intricate façade,—and Santa Chiara, with its stunning cloisters. The blend of Renaissance and Baroque architecture gives the city a unique charm, and you'll hear stories about saints, nobles, and rebels who played key roles in shaping Naples’ destiny.
Spaccanapoli & San Gregorio Armeno
Next, dive into the heart of Naples’ historic center with a walk along Spaccanapoli, a narrow street that splits the old city in two. This vibrant artery is filled with life,—street vendors, locals, and visitors all mingling amidst centuries-old traditions. Here, you'll experience the city’s lively atmosphere, and your guide will point out remarkable architectural details. A short detour will take you to San Gregorio Armeno, Naples' famous street known for its nativity scene makers. Watch artisans create intricate presepi (nativity scenes), a centuries-old tradition. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover a more artistic side of Naples and perhaps pick up a handmade souvenir.
Neapolis Sotterrata
At the San Lorenzo Maggiore complex, go beneath the surface to discover Neapolis Sotterrata. As you enter this hidden site, you’ll step back in time, exploring well-preserved Roman streets, ancient marketplaces, and ruins. These underground ruins offer a rare glimpse of daily life in ancient Rome, tucked beneath the bustling city of today. Your guide will explain the fascinating history of the site’s rediscovery and preservation, making this part of the tour a unique experience that few visitors get to enjoy.
Castles, Palaces, and Panoramic Views
Finally, your tour concludes in Naples' grand monumental district, home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the imposing Maschio Angioino Castle, take in the views from Piazza del Plebiscito, and stroll past the Royal Palace and the elegant Galleria Umberto I. As your guide bids you farewell, you'll receive helpful tips for the rest of your day, whether you want to enjoy a pizza, visit a museum, or take in the views from Castel dell’Ovo. The tour ends where it began, at Piazza Municipio.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a bottle of water, a camera, and sunscreen or an umbrella depending on the weather.
What to bring?
Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a bottle of water, a camera, and sunscreen or an umbrella depending on the weather.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Naples.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, due to uneven surfaces and underground areas, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you have other concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance and we will do our best to assist you.
What happens if it rains?
We run our tour rain or shine.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but your guide will recommend some excellent spots nearby after the tour.
Are entrance tickets included in the price?
Yes, the entrance to the underground Roman ruins (Neapolis Sotterrata) is included.
How comprehensive is the walking tour?
The walking portion lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, allowing you to explore many of the city's most renowned neighborhoods, squares, churches, and historic landmarks at a comfortable pace. In addition, you'll spend about 30 minutes inside the underground Roman ruins, offering a unique perspective on the ancient foundations of Naples.
Is there any chance this tour will be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund.
Is there a dress code on this tour?
We recommend wearing comfortable shoes (slippers are not permitted) and weather appropriate clothing.
Will the guide be with me the whole time?
Yes, the guide will be with you the whole time. They will accompany you throughout both the walking tour of the historic center and the underground tour, ensuring you get the most out of your experience with expert insights and local knowledge!
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You will meet your guide at the designated meeting point in Piazza Municipio, Naples.
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