9 Must-Do Experiences in Naples for 2025: Culture, Cuisine, and Hidden Gems

From ancient underground tunnels to Michelin-starred meals, Naples is a city where contrasts converge: chaotic and beautiful, gritty and elegant, timeless and constantly evolving. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to explore more intimate and hidden storefronts, streets, and expereinces, 2025 brings exciting reasons to explore. Here are nine must-do experiences that go beyond the typical itineraries to uncover the true soul of Naples and nearby sites.

1. Explore the Newly Unearthed Thermal Complex in Pompeii

Just a short train ride from Naples, Pompeii is always a marvel—but in 2025, there’s something new to see. A "once-in-a-century" discovery has revealed a grand private bathhouse, possibly the largest ever found in the city. With vibrant frescoes, mosaic floors, and a plunge pool for 20-30 people, the site is now partially open to visitors. This is Roman luxury at its most intimate.

2. Sample Naples' Culinary Renaissance

While Naples is forever the birthplace of pizza, the culinary scene in 2025 is evolving in delicious ways. At the Romeo Napoli Hotel, Il Ristorante Alain Ducasse is serving inventive takes on Neapolitan flavors with French finesse. Or reserve a table at the George Restaurant, which recently earned its second Michelin star for its innovative Mediterranean tasting menu.

3. Discover Underground Naples

Beneath the city's surface lies a shadowy world of catacombs, aqueducts, and ancient tunnels. Sites like Napoli Sotterranea and the Catacombs of San Gennaro offer an unforgettable journey through time, where Greek, Roman, and Christian legacies overlap. It's an atmospheric, candlelit perspective on Naples that few visitors forget.

4. Take in Art and Activism in Rione Sanità

The vibrant neighborhood of Rione Sanità continues its artistic transformation with exhibitions like Jago’s “David” at Gallerie d’Italia (on view through January 2026). In addition, the museum is hosting Raphael's Lady with Unicorn (March 27 to June 22, 2025), as part of the "L'Ospite Illustre" program—a rare chance to see one of the Renaissance master's most enigmatic works outside of Rome.

5. See Recovered Treasures at the National Archaeological Museum

Art lovers and history buffs shouldn't miss the remarkable new exhibition at the National Archaeological Museum, showcasing 600 artifacts recently recovered from the black market. Spanning from the Archaic Period to the Middle Ages, these pieces add new dimension to Italy’s cultural heritage.

6. Escape to Gaiola Island and Marine Reserve

Just off Posillipo, Gaiola Island is a little-known gem with a rich past and crystal-clear waters. The surrounding marine reserve offers a serene break from the bustle of the city—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply admiring the views. Legend has it the island is cursed, but that only adds to its mystique.

7. Climb the Petraio Staircase for Panoramic Views

For those willing to trade tourist crowds for a bit of cardio, the Petraio staircase rewards with sweeping vistas over the Bay of Naples. This pedestrian path winds from the Vomero hilltop down to Chiaia, revealing Liberty-style villas, hanging gardens, and hidden viewpoints all along the way.

8. Catch a Performance at Teatro di San Carlo

One of Europe’s oldest working opera houses, the Teatro di San Carlo remains the cultural heartbeat of Naples. Whether it's opera, ballet, or a classical concert, a performance here is a feast for the senses—ornate interiors, world-class acoustics, and a stage where Verdi and Rossini once premiered their works.

9. Experience Naples After Dark with Music and Candlelight

Festivals like Noisy Naples, NZIEM, and the Nocera Jazz Festival highlight the city's diverse music scene. For something more intimate, attend a candlelight concert or intimate performance at Chiesa di Santa Maria Donnaregina Nuova, where the ambiance is as memorable as the music itself. Performances include tributes to Queen, ABBA, and Ennio Morricone.

Whether you're drawn by ancient ruins, modern art, or unforgettable food, Naples in 2025 is a city that rewards the curious. Go beyond the guidebook, follow your nose (and your appetite), and prepare to fall for one of Italy's most compelling cities.

Searching for tours to get acquainted with the city? You can find all of our Naples tours here.