Although it sometimes gets a bad rap as a dangerous city, Naples is a safe place to visit as long as you keep some safety considerations in mind. This guide, full of local advice, covers everything from the coronavirus to tips for solo travelers.
Work with a local to build your trip to Naples. They'll offer up-to-date information that you might not find online—and tips on how to stay away from the crowds. Learn more.
Many questions about traveling to Italy have to do with COVID right now. Perhaps you’re wondering when Naples will be safe to visit or whether it’s difficult for Americans to travel to Italy right now.
Both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers from the United States may visit Italy. Negative COVID test results are not required.
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll need to check and follow the COVID-19 rules in Italy. A local can help. Right now, the only nationwide requirement to keep in mind is that FFP2 masks are required on public transportation and in healthcare settings. Individual businesses are also allowed to require masks if they wish to do so.
A local in Italy can help you navigate the current rules and give you tips on the best pizza in Naples.
The third-largest city in Italy, Naples is known for its pizza, proximity to sites like Pompeii, and seaside views. Locals tell it’s among the best cities to visit in Italy—although it does have a mixed reputation when it comes to safety.
Locals tell us this reputation is largely unfair. Naples, like any big city, has safe and unsafe areas. On the whole, it’s a lively, dynamic place to visit in Italy. Plus, staying in Naples makes it easy to get to top Italian tourist attractions like Mount Vesuvius and the Island of Capri.
Although Italy is safe on the whole, locals say you should beware of being scammed. They say that common scams in Naples include:
These scams are common throughout the country, so keep them in mind whether you’re enjoying Naples or exploring all the things to see in Rome.
Local tip: You can navigate Naples by tram, metro, and even by funicular.
Italy is a safe destination for solo travelers—and, with proper precautions, so is Naples. Locals tell us that anyone traveling alone should keep these things in mind:
For personalized advice on enjoying Naples as a solo traveler, work with an Italian local to build your trip. (It’s like having a friend in Italy...while still exploring on your own.)
Although unlikely, locals tell us that it’s possible for a natural disaster to occur in Naples—the city is somewhat prone to earthquakes. Locals in Italy can advise visitors on what to do if this happens.
In addition, the city is in the shadow of an active volcano—but the last time Mount Vesuvius erupted was in 1944.
No matter where you go in Italy, it’s good to learn un poco Italian. Locals in Italy tell us these are some important phrases to know:
Naples is a good place to stay in Italy if you don’t speak any Italian. Most people you encounter will speak some English. That being said, it’s always good to know a few words. “Hello” and “thank you” go a long way!
You also might want to ask a local about the Neopolitan dialect, which is quite different from Italian.
Cities throughout Italy are generally quite safe—from Venice to Milan to Rome—but in case you run into any trouble, here are some good numbers to know:
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