What to see in Naples

Pompeii

The Roman city buried by Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserved under ash for almost two millennia. The forum, the amphitheater and the frescoed villas make it the most complete Roman town on earth. Official site: Parco Archeologico di Pompei.

Tip: Book the early slot and hire a guide - the ruins are vast and a good route makes all the difference.

Mount Vesuvius

The volcano that destroyed Pompeii still looms over the bay today. A hike from the crater parking area to the rim - 1000 meters up - rewards you with a panorama from the bay to the Apennines. Official site: Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio.

Tip: Combine it with Pompeii in a single long day; bring sturdy shoes and water.

National Archaeological Museum (MANN)

One of the great archaeology museums of the world: the Farnese collection of Roman sculpture, superb mosaics and frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the famous Secret Cabinet. Official site: Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli.

Tip: The mosaics from Pompeii kept here are often better than what remains on site.

Sansevero Chapel

A tiny baroque chapel holding one of the most moving sculptures in Europe - Giuseppe Sanmartino's Veiled Christ - plus the bizarre anatomical machines of its patron prince. Official site: Museo Cappella Sansevero.

Tip: Tickets are timed and sell out; book online in advance.

Capodimonte Museum and Royal Palace

The Bourbon hunting palace on the hill, now home to Caravaggio's Flagellation, Titian and the Farnese collections, surrounded by a vast green park above the city. Official site: Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte.

Spaccanapoli and the historic center

The long, straight lane that splits the old city, threading past churches, palaces, street food and the nativity-crib workshops of San Gregorio Armeno. The whole center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: Historic Centre of Naples.

Tip: Go early in the morning before the crowds - the light on the basoli paving is unforgettable.