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We didn’t exactly plan to visit Naples — it just happened. What started as a flight diversion turned into one of the best surprises of our travels, and by the time we left, we were completely hooked.
Naples has that rare mix of chaos and charm that somehow works — one minute you’re dodging scooters in the narrow streets, the next you’re watching the sunset over the bay with a slice of the best pizza you’ve ever had.
We stayed right in Centro Storico, and honestly, it turned out to be a perfect pick — especially if it’s your first time here. It’s noisy, historic, and full of life, but it puts you within walking distance of everything that makes this city special: the street food, the old churches, and that raw, energetic atmosphere you just can’t find anywhere else.
Most of the best things to do in Naples were right at our doorstep, which made it an ideal base for exploring.
In this guide, we’re sharing everything we wish we’d known before booking — from the best places to stay in Naples to our favorite hotels we’d happily book again. We’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best area and hotel depending on your needs.
In a hurry?
These are our top hotels in Naples we’d book again
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Relais Della Porta (Our Top Pick) – A beautifully restored palazzo with elegant rooms, frescoed ceilings, and great comfort.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️⭐️ Gallery Experience Napoli – A modern mid-range stay in the Historic Centre with stylish rooms, spa baths, and great value for the location.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️ B&B La Movida – A cozy budget stay in Chiaia close to cafés, restaurants, and the seafront.
👉 See prices & availability →
Where to stay in Naples: Our experience
Since we appeared in Naples by pure accident and didn’t have much time to stay in multiple areas, we chose to base ourselves in the Historic Centre, which, honestly, turned out to be the best place to stay for first-timers.
We had all the main attractions within walking distance, from Spaccanapoli and Piazza del Gesù Nuovo to the best pizzerias in town. For anything further, public transport worked surprisingly well — especially the metro and local buses.
Staying in the heart of Naples meant being surrounded by constant energy — scooters rushing past, locals chatting in the cafes, and that unmistakable smell of espresso and pizza dough everywhere you go. It can feel chaotic at times, but that’s exactly what we loved.
We also took time to explore other parts of the city to see what they’re really like to stay in. Chiaia immediately stood out for its calm and elegant vibe — it felt like a completely different world compared to the Historic Centre, with sea views, stylish cafés, and locals out for evening strolls along the promenade.
The Spanish Quarters, on the other hand, were exactly what we imagined Naples to be: gritty, loud, full of life, and somehow impossible not to love.
And then there’s Santa Lucia, the area by the bay that feels both scenic and refined — close to the Royal Palace and perfect for anyone who wants that postcard view of the city.
Each area shows a different side of Naples, and choosing the right one really depends on your preferences. Here’s what we learned about the best places to stay in Naples, and what makes each one worth considering.
Best areas to stay in Naples
Below you’ll find the best areas to stay in Naples, each offering a different vibe and experience.
On the map, you can see where these neighborhoods are located — it’ll help you picture how close they are to the main attractions and decide which one fits your trip best.
Centro Storico (Historic Centre)
Right in the heart of Naples, Centro Storico is where everything happens — ancient churches, street markets, and the smell of pizza drifting from every corner. This is the city’s oldest and liveliest part, home to famous spots like Spaccanapoli, Via dei Tribunali, and Piazza del Gesù Nuovo.
Staying here means you can walk to nearly every major attraction, grab pizza from L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, and feel immersed in the daily rhythm of Naples.
We stayed here during our visit, and it couldn’t have been a better choice for a first trip. Yes, it’s loud, busy, and a bit chaotic — but it’s also fascinating. Mornings start with the sound of espresso machines, and nights end with wine or drinks in the street long after midnight. If you want to be in the middle of the action and close to everything, this is the place.
✅ Pros: Central, full of character, walking distance to everything
❌ Cons: Noisy, limited parking, and narrow streets
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors and travelers who want to experience the real Naples up close
Chiaia
Just west of the Historic Centre, Chiaia is one of Naples’ most elegant and peaceful areas. It’s close enough to reach the main sights in 15–20 minutes by metro or taxi, but far enough to escape the city’s constant buzz. Streets are wide and tidy, lined with cafés, small boutiques, and great seafood restaurants along the Lungomare promenade.
When we spent time here, it felt like a place where you could actually relax after a busy day of sightseeing — clean, safe, and full of local life without the chaos. We quickly realized it’s perfect if you want to enjoy Naples without being right in the middle of it all.
✅ Pros: Calm, safe, scenic, good transport links
❌ Cons: Pricier and a bit removed from main attractions
⭐️ Best for: Couples and families who want comfort and a peaceful base
Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters)
Just behind Via Toledo and minutes from the city’s main attractions, Quartieri Spagnoli is one of the most central and lively areas.
The maze of narrow streets is packed with scooters, hanging laundry, and tiny trattorias where locals eat every day. You can walk to most places — the Royal Palace, Piazza del Plebiscito, or the metro — in under 10 minutes, making it one of the most convenient bases in the city.
We loved exploring here during the day — it’s loud, colorful, and bursting with local life. At night, it can feel a bit hectic, but we never felt unsafe, just alert like in any big city. It’s one of those areas that grows on you fast once you embrace the energy.
Staying near Via Toledo gives you the lively vibe but easier access to transport and quieter nights.
✅ Pros: Central, authentic, walkable, affordable, great food
❌ Cons: Noisy, limited parking, and narrow streets
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and anyone who wants to be in a lively area
Santa Lucia & Piazza del Plebiscito
Set right by the bay, between the Royal Palace and Castel dell’Ovo, Santa Lucia is one of the most scenic and convenient areas to stay in Naples. It’s central enough to reach the main landmarks on foot, yet quiet compared to the busy streets of the Historic Centre.
The seafront promenade is perfect for evening walks, and you’ll find great restaurants, elegant hotels, and views across the Bay of Naples.
When we explored this area, it felt safe, clean, and ideal for short stays — everything is within easy reach, from ferries to Capri to the main metro line. It’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s best viewpoints at sunset, especially along Via Partenope. If you want a classic, easy base without giving up charm or location, this is it.
Insider tip: Stay close to the seafront near Castel dell’Ovo for the best views and easy morning walks by the water.
✅ Pros: Scenic, walkable, central, safe, close to ferries
❌ Cons: Hotels are pricier, nightlife options are limited
⭐️ Best for: Couples and short-term visitors who want sea views and a refined, central stay
Best hotels in Naples
This list brings together our favorite places to stay around Naples — hotels we would confidently book after exploring the city from end to end.
We’ve done the hard part for you, narrowing it down to the best hotels in Naples for every budget and travel style, so you can easily find the one that fits your trip best.
In Naples during high season, budget hotels usually start around $80–130 per night, mid-range stays range between $150–250, and luxury hotels typically go from $260–600+ per night for two people.
IMPORTANT: Booking in advance is essential, as the best hotels tend to sell out quickly, especially in the months leading up to summer.
Best hotels in Centro Storico
The heart of the city and the best area for first-time visitors. It’s lively, walkable, and full of historic churches, street markets, and the city’s most famous pizza spots.
- Il Fondaco all’Archivio Storico $
- Gallery Experience Napoli $$ (Our Top Pick)
- Unico Relais $$$
Il Fondaco all’Archivio Storico $
Il Fondaco all’Archivio Storico is a great budget stay right in the heart of the Historic Centre. What we like about this hotel is its unbeatable location — just steps from Spaccanapoli and the main historic sights. The rooms are clean, modern, and surprisingly quiet given how central it is, with small balconies overlooking the old streets.
It’s ideal if you’re after comfort and don’t want to spend a lot of money. There’s air conditioning, a shared terrace for morning coffee, and plenty of excellent cafés and pizza places within a short walk.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a comfortable, central base in the middle of the Historic Centre.
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Gallery Experience Napoli $$ (Our Top Pick)
We stayed at Gallery Experience Napoli, and honestly, it was one of those finds that felt almost too good to be true. When we booked it, there was a huge discount, and we couldn’t believe the price — especially for a room with a private spa bath right in the heart of the Historic Centre. After long days of walking through the chaos of Naples, soaking in that tub felt like pure luxury.
The hotel itself has a clean, modern design with touches of local art, and the rooms are spacious by Naples standards. What we like about this hotel is how quiet it feels despite being just a few minutes from Via Toledo and Spaccanapoli.
The staff were friendly, check-in was easy, and the small details, like high-quality bedding and good soundproofing, made it a comfortable and memorable stay. It’s our top pick because of how it balances comfort, location, and value.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a stylish, relaxing stay with in-room spa baths right in the centre.
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Unico Relais $$$
Unico Relais is a boutique-style stay in the Historic Centre that combines classic charm with modern comfort. What we like about Unico Relais is how refined and quiet it feels despite being just a short walk from Via Toledo and the main historic sights. The design is elegant — with high ceilings, marble floors, and stylish décor that gives the rooms a luxurious feel.
Many rooms come with tiny balconies overlooking the old streets, and the beds are exceptionally comfortable. Breakfast is served in-room, which adds a nice touch if you prefer slow mornings. Everything feels carefully maintained and personal, from the warm welcome to the attention to detail in the rooms.
It’s the kind of place you book when you want something special and peaceful in the middle of Naples’ chaos.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers looking for a quiet, elegant boutique stay in the heart of the Historic Centre.
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best hotels in Chiaia
An elegant seaside area just west of the center, perfect if you prefer calm evenings and stylish surroundings. It’s clean, safe, and ideal for walks along the Lungomare, with easy access to cafés, boutiques, and sea views.
B&B La Movida $
B&B La Movida is a cozy budget stay in the heart of Chiaia, perfect if you want a simple but comfortable base near the waterfront. What we like about this place is its location — just a short walk from the Lungomare promenade and plenty of cafés and restaurants.
The rooms are bright, clean, and air-conditioned, with balconies overlooking a quiet street, which is rare in this part of Naples.
It’s a great pick if you’re looking for something small and local rather than a large hotel, and don’t want to overspend. The owner is friendly and helpful, breakfast is included, and public transport to the city center is just a few minutes away.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a clean, well-located base near the seafront
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hotel Poerio 25 Boutique Stay $$
If you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in Chiaia that blends comfort with style, Hotel Poerio 25 Boutique Stay is a great choice. Set on one of the area’s most elegant streets, it’s close to the seafront promenade, boutique shops, and plenty of cafes.
The rooms are bright, modern, and quiet, with high ceilings, quality bedding, and details like espresso machines and rainfall showers that make the stay feel more refined. What we like about this hotel is how calm and well-maintained it feels. It’s perfect for travelers who value both comfort and convenience.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a stylish, relaxing stay close to the waterfront and shopping streets
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Agra Suites $$$ (Our Top Pick)
If you’re wondering where to stay in Naples for a more refined experience, Agra Suites in Chiaia is the one we’d pick again. It’s a small boutique hotel that feels calm and private, with elegant, modern rooms and warm, personal service that instantly makes you feel welcome.
What we like is how peaceful it feels despite being in the heart of Chiaia — just a short walk from the seafront, local cafés, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
The rooms are beautifully designed with high ceilings, comfortable beds, and thoughtful touches like coffee machines, minibars, and smart TVs. Some even come with bathtubs in a room or private terraces, perfect for slow mornings before heading out to explore. It’s our top pick in Chiaia because it strikes that perfect balance between boutique style, comfort, and genuine hospitality.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a refined, quiet boutique stay near the seafront and the best restaurants
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters)
A lively, authentic neighborhood right behind Via Toledo. Expect narrow alleys, local food, and a real Neapolitan atmosphere. It’s central, walkable, and great for travelers who want to be close to everything without spending much.
Leone Suites Toledo $
If you’re hunting for a sharp budget option in the heart of the lively Quartieri Spagnoli, Leone Suites Toledo is a smart pick. We like that it’s just a minute’s walk from the Toledo metro stop and a few minutes from Via Toledo — meaning you’re well-connected for exploring everywhere in this city.
The rooms are modern, comfortably furnished with tea and coffee, and many include small balconies overlooking the bustling street scene.
It’s great for people who want to stay in a vibrant neighbourhood without spending big. That said, expect some street noise and narrower staircases — big luggage might be a hassle. It’s also a great pick for families, as they offer spacious quadruple rooms that are hard to find in this area.
⭐ Best for: Budget travelers and families who want to stay close to public transport
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Residenza Borbonica $$
If you’re searching for a mid-range stay in Quartieri Spagnoli, Residenza Borbonica is one of the best places to stay in Naples for its mix of comfort, value, and location. It’s just steps from a major shopping street filled with traditional eateries, ice-cream shops, and cozy cafés, so you’re never far from great local food or a quick espresso stop.
The rooms are modern and bright, with high ceilings, comfortable beds, and small balconies overlooking the lively streets below. The owner is genuinely helpful and welcoming, the breakfast is delicious, and there’s even a lift — a small but practical detail that makes it easy if you’re arriving with large luggage.
It’s a great pick if you want a comfortable base that keeps you close to the Historic Center but offers a calm atmosphere to unwind at the end of the day.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers and couples who want comfort, convenience, and a great location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Relais Della Porta $$$ (Our Top Pick)
Housed in a restored 16th-century palazzo on Via Toledo, Relais Della Porta blends old-world charm with modern comfort. The rooms are spacious and beautifully renovated, with high ceilings, marble bathrooms, and elegant furnishings — some even feature original ceiling paintings. Despite its central location, the rooms are impressively quiet — you won’t hear a hint of the busy streets outside.
What we like is how it perfectly combines history, comfort, and convenience. You’re within walking distance of almost everything — the old town, the sea, and several museums — making it one of the best hotels in Naples for easy exploring.
Breakfast is served in a stunning hall with frescoed ceilings, and the small lift makes it easy to manage luggage. They also offer family rooms, which makes it a great option if you’re visiting with kids. It’s our top pick in Quartieri Spagnoli because it features everything we are looking for, maybe except for wellness, but that is super rare in this city.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and families who want a stylish, luxury stay with an incredible location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Santa Lucia & Piazza del Plebiscito
One of the most scenic and convenient areas to stay in Naples, right by the bay and close to major sights. It’s clean, central, and perfect for couples who want sea views, comfort, and easy access to ferries and landmarks.
- Spira Mirabilis Napoli $
- Napoli Tree – Lungomare $$
- Artemisia Domus – Giardino $$$ (Our Top Pick)
Spira Mirabilis Napoli $
Tucked away on a quiet street near the seafront, Spira Mirabilis Napoli is a great budget stay in the Santa Lucia area. What we like about this place is its convenient location — just a short walk from Piazza del Plebiscito, the waterfront promenade, and the ferry terminal. It offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free WiFi, making it a comfortable option for both couples and families.
There’s also paid private parking, which is a big plus in this part of Naples where finding a spot can be tricky. The owner is friendly and helpful, and you can also get breakfast. Overall, it’s a simple but well-equipped place.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers and families looking for a stay near the seafront
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Napoli Tree – Lungomare $$
Just a short walk from the seafront promenade, Napoli Tree – Lungomare is a charming mid-range stay in Santa Lucia, one of the best areas to stay in Naples for comfort, safety, and sea views. What we like about it is the bright, modern design and welcoming atmosphere, with restaurants, bars, and shops at your doorstep.
Rooms are air-conditioned with free WiFi and private bathrooms, and there are family rooms for those traveling with kids. Breakfast is a highlight — superb and full of homemade treats prepared by the owner’s mother. There’s a lift, though you’ll need to climb a few stairs to reach it, and paid private parking is available nearby.
We think that it’s one of those places that instantly feels welcoming and well cared for — perfect if you want comfort, convenience, and a local touch near the seafront.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and families who want a safe, convenient base near the sea and city center
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Artemisia Domus – Giardino $$$ (Our Top Pick)
Blending boutique style with a touch of luxury, Artemisia Domus – Giardino is for those who appreciate elegance and luxury touches. We think this is the kind of place that instantly makes your stay feel special — tucked inside a beautifully restored historic building with a peaceful garden courtyard that feels far removed from the city noise.
The rooms are spacious, with high ceilings, modern decor, and spa-like bathrooms. Some suites even have private jacuzzis, perfect for a romantic stay. Breakfast is served in the garden when the weather’s nice, and we recommend taking the time to enjoy it — it’s homemade, fresh, and beautifully presented.
Every single person from the staff is incredibly kind, attentive, and genuinely caring, which makes a huge difference and adds to the hotel’s warm, welcoming atmosphere. The location couldn’t be better either — close to the sea, restaurants, and main attractions, yet quiet and relaxing once you’re back inside.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a boutique, tranquil stay with exceptional service
👉 Check availability and current prices →
If your trip continues to Rome, we’ve got you covered there too — our guide to the best things to do in Rome covers all the highlights and local favorites, and our where to stay in Rome post will help you find the perfect area to base yourself.
FAQ about the best places to stay in
Where should first-time visitors stay?
We recommend staying in Centro Storico — it’s walkable, full of local life, and close to all the main attractions. For a quieter first stay with sea views, Santa Lucia is a great alternative.
What is the best place to stay in Naples for couples?
We recommend Chiaia or Santa Lucia for couples. Both areas are safe, elegant, and perfect for evening walks by the sea, with great restaurants and boutique hotels. For something extra special, Artemisia Domus – Giardino is our top pick for a romantic stay.
What are the best adults-only hotels in Naples?
If you’re looking for adults-only hotels, we recommend checking out Toledo Relax, Toledostop, and Atelier Inès Arts & Suites.
Where to stay in Naples for nightlife?
We would definitely pick Centro Storico — it’s full of lively bars, restaurants and street food spots. Quartieri Spagnoli and Chiaia are also great options, depending on whether you prefer a local vibe or a more upscale evening scene.
What are the best 5-star hotels in X?
If you’re looking for the best 5-star hotels, we suggest checking out Chiostro San Francesco, Grand Hotel Parker’s, and Grand Hotel Vesuvio.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Naples
Choosing where to stay in Naples can shape your experience of the city — and after exploring it, we can honestly say it’s worth taking the time to pick the right area.
Each neighborhood is different. Centro Storico is lively and chaotic, Chiaia is elegant and calm, Quartieri Spagnoli is vibrant and authentic, and Santa Lucia is refined with sea views and easy access to the main sights.
If it’s your first visit, we recommend basing yourself in the Historic Centre — everything’s walkable, and it’s where you’ll really feel this city come alive. For quieter evenings or romantic getaways, Chiaia or Santa Lucia are great options, while Quartieri Spagnoli suits anyone who wants to dive straight into local life and food culture.
When it comes to places to stay, the hotels we’ve listed here are ones we’d confidently book again — a mix of comfort, location, and genuine hospitality.
