Getting Around Naples
Getting Around Naples
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
Naples's public transport can be a bit of an adventure, but once you get the hang of it, you realize it has its own charm. One common mistake tourists often make is thinking the metro is the only option for getting around. Sure, it’s a crucial part of the system, but buses and trams are just as essential for reaching all those picturesque alleys and hidden piazzas. You’ll especially want to use the R2 line to explore places like the Vomero district or take the 151 bus if you’re heading to Mergellina.I remember my first day trying to navigate the metro. I got totally lost trying to get from Garibaldi station to the historic center. The signs were a bit confusing, and I ended up going in circles. On the upside, the metro runs until about midnight, which is great if you’re out dining or enjoying music in the Quartieri Spagnoli. Just a heads up, transport tends to get super crowded around 8-9 AM when everyone is headed to work—definitely not the best time to hop on the metro if you’re not a big fan of elbow-to-elbow situations. (Trust me, you might find your personal space invaded.)
Now, for a money-saving tip! Grab a UNICO Napoli card if you plan to use public transport a lot—it’s a one-off fee of about €3.20 and will save you cash in the long run. Regular tickets cost roughly €1.10 for a single trip, and you can even get a day pass for about €4.50. That’s a steal if you’re hopping from one site to another. Just watch out during peak hours; the price doesn’t change but it might feel like a free-for-all at the stops!
Oh, before I forget, always validate your ticket before boarding; otherwise, you could end up with a hefty fine (and trust me, you don't want that). One locals' insight that saved me one rainy day was to always check the weather before setting out. Buses can run late when it pours, so having a Plan B, like a water-resistant umbrella, is a must.
So, while public transport here can be chaotic at times, it’s all part of the Napoli experience. And don't forget: keep your belongings close, especially in crowded spaces!
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
The bus system in Naples is extensive, covering key tourist areas like the historical center, the seaside promenade, and neighborhoods like Vomero and Chiaia. Tickets typically cost around €1.10 for a single journey and can be purchased at newsstands, tabacchi (tobacco shops), or via the ANM app; remember to validate your ticket on the bus. A great tip for tourists is to use the R2 bus route, which provides a scenic journey along the waterfront and stops at major attractions like Castel dell'Ovo and Piazza del Plebiscito. To save time, consider using Google Maps or the ANM app for real-time schedules and route planning. Lastly, stay aware of your belongings, especially during peak hours, as the buses can get crowded.
The metro in Naples is an efficient way to explore the city, with two main lines (Line 1 and Line 6) that connect key areas like the historic center, Mergellina, and the commercial districts. A single ticket costs €1.10 and is valid for 90 minutes, allowing transfers between metro lines and buses, and you can purchase tickets at vending machines or authorized ticket sellers in stations. Make sure to note that Line 1, known for its artistic stations, includes stops at important attractions like Piazza Dante and Toledo, famous for its mosaics. To save time, avoid rush hours, typically from 7:30 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM, when trains can be overcrowded. Additionally, always validate your ticket before boarding to avoid fines, and stay alert to your belongings, as petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Naples. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.