Kindly refer to the official website to confirm the opening hours, as they are subject to change.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Piazza del Plebiscito is the largest and most famous square in Naples, located in the heart of the city. It's an iconic spot, known for its grand architecture, historical significance, and stunning views of the Gulf of Naples. Here are the main highlights you can explore in the square:
1. Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
The Royal Palace is one of Naples' most important landmarks. It was originally the residence of Spanish and later Bourbon kings. Today, it houses a museum with royal apartments, art collections, and beautiful gardens.
What to See:
Royal Apartments: Explore the luxurious rooms that once housed royalty.
Palace Gardens: Enjoy the peaceful gardens with a great view over the square and the Bay of Naples.
Museum Exhibitions: View royal furnishings, artworks, and decorative arts.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Last entry: 7:30 PM
Ticket Prices:
Standard Admission: €10
Reduced Admission (for residents of Naples): €2
Free Entry: On the first Sunday of every month and for EU citizens under 18.
2. Basilica of San Francesco di Paola
The Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is a magnificent neoclassical church with a stunning dome. It's inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and is dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola.
3. Caffe Gambrinus
Taking a coffee break at Caffè Gambrinus in Naples is like stepping into a piece of Italian history. Located just steps from Piazza del Plebiscito, this iconic café has been a cultural and literary hub since the 19th century. As you walk in, you're greeted by elegant chandeliers, marble counters, gilded mirrors, and intricate frescoes that capture the charm of the Belle Époque.
Order a classic Neapolitan espresso—rich, intense, and served in a small porcelain cup—or indulge in a creamy sfogliatella, the famous local pastry. The baristas, dressed impeccably, prepare your coffee with the same attention to detail that has made this place a legend.
Whether you choose to sip your coffee standing at the bar like a true local, or take a seat on the outdoor terrace to enjoy the lively street life of Naples, a stop at Caffè Gambrinus is more than just a break—it's an experience.
4. Monte Echia
Start with a walk up to Monte Echia, the ancient heart of Naples, where Greek settlers first arrived over 2,500 years ago. From the panoramic terrace, you’ll get breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the island of Capri in the distance. It’s a quiet, scenic spot that contrasts beautifully with the busy streets below.
5. Galleria Borbonica
Then, descend into the Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica), a hidden underground world beneath the city. Originally built in the 1850s as a secret military passage for King Ferdinand II, the tunnel has served many roles over the centuries—including as a World War II bomb shelter. Guided tours take you through dark passageways, cisterns, and antique vehicles left behind, revealing a lesser-known side of Naples that feels both eerie and captivating.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Ticket: Free entry.
How to Get to Piazza del Plebiscito from Via Tribunali 339:
The distance from Via Tribunali 339 to Piazza del Plebiscito is approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 1 mile). Here’s how you can get there:
Walking Directions (Approx. 10-15 minutes):
Exit Via Tribunali 339 and head toward Piazza San Domenico Maggiore.
Continue straight along Spaccanapoli and turn left onto Via Toledo, a major shopping street.
Walk straight along Via Toledo until you reach Piazza del Plebiscito.