coffee in naples Archives

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, make sure Naples is on your itinerary! Often overlooked by travelers heading to Rome or Florence, Naples offers a unique combination of rich history, authentic culture, and stunning coastal views.

Most travelers seem to stumble when it comes to things to do in Naples, so rather than explore this dynamic city they just grab a pizza, swing by the Pompeii ruins, and head onward to the Amalfi Coast. It’s hard to wrap your head around the volume of amazing things to see in Naples, and harder still to understand why travelers don’t spend more time here. I am crazy about Naples, Italy. I come here as often as I can, and even wrote a book about the city. Glam Italia! 101 Fabulous Things To Do In Naples: Adventures, Intrigue and Glorious Mayhem In Europe’s Most Exciting City

I can’t give you 101 specific things to see and do in Naples in this blog post, but I can give you ten incredible reasons why visiting Naples should be at the top of your travel list.

The Birthplace of Pizza – Try Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

One of the top things to do in Naples, Italy, is to enjoy a slice (or more) of authentic Neapolitan pizza. Known as the birthplace of pizza, Naples takes its pizza-making seriously. So much so that UNESCO declared the specialty art of Neapolitan pizza making part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Head to famous spots like Pizzeria da Michele or Sorbillo’s, or really, just stop into any pizza joint in the city to taste pizza that’s soft, fresh, and unforgettable.

Explore Ancient Ruins Near Naples

Ancient Roman road in Pompeii — Walk along the ancient Roman roads in Pompeii.

Naples is near some of Italy’s most fascinating archaeological sites, like the rich history and ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Just a short drive away, these well-preserved sites offer a glimpse into Roman life, with streets, frescoes, and buildings preserved by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius.

In my book I explain why Pompeii is the single most important archaeological site in the world, but I also tell you about other archaeological sites in and around Naples that will also blow your mind. This list includes an underwater city where you can snorkel over or scuba around Roman ruins, 2000 year old Roman mosaics, and swim through Roman statues. It’s amazing!

Hike Mount Vesuvius For Stunning Views

Mount Vesuvius is one of the few active volcanoes in mainland Europe, and it’s one of Naples’ top attractions. A hike up Vesuvius offers incredible views of the Bay of Naples and a unique chance to experience a geological wonder that shaped Italian history. If you’re no into hiking up volcanoes you can still enjoy a view of Vesuvius from almost anywhere in Naples. The mountain is either the background or the arch villain in most of the photos you’ll take!

Discover Naples’ Art And Architecture

Naples, Italy, is a treasure trove of art and architecture, with museums, churches, and historic sites everywhere. For centuries the two cultural centers of Europe were Paris and Naples. Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum to see one of the best Greco-Roman collections in the world, and don’t miss iconic churches like the Naples Cathedral and Santa Chiara. I go into depth in my book about the incredible museums here that you have never heard of before, and unbelievable churches, replete with spooky crypts, cloistered nunneries.

Scenic Day Trips To The Amalfi Coast

Naples is the gateway to Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast. A day trip from Naples along the Amalfi Coast Road will take you to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, where cliffs meet crystal-blue waters. Exploring the Amalfi Coast is one of the best day trips you can take from Naples, offering unforgettable views and experiences.

Experience Bustling Local Markets In Naples Italy

Pignasecca market naples — Naples street market in Pignasecca

For an authentic Naples experience, head to local markets like Mercato di Porta Nolana or Mercato di Pignasecca. These bustling markets are packed with fresh produce, Italian delicacies, and street vendors. Visiting Naples’ markets is a must-do for anyone looking to experience local culture.

Explore The Catacombs Of Naples

A visit to the catacombs is one of the more unique things to do in Naples. The Catacombs of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso offer an intriguing journey through Greek, Roman and early Christian history in Naples, Italy, with underground tunnels and historic frescoes. These are nothing like the catacombs you’ve seen elsewhere (like Paris). In Glam Italia! 101 Fabulous Things To Do In Naples I go into depth about each of the catacombs, tell you what makes them so unique, and how to see them. They are sensational! (And very quirky)

Immerse Yourself In Authentic Italian (Neapolitan!) Culture

Naples offers an unpolished, genuine look at Italian life that’s hard to find in other tourist-heavy destinations. From the friendliness of locals to the city’s lively atmosphere, Naples is perfect for travelers looking to experience true Italian culture.

Take A Day Trip To The Nearby Islands

Naples is ideally located for easy day trips to nearby Italian islands like Capri, Ischia, and Procida. Each island offers something different: Capri is known for glamour and the Blue Grotto, Ischia for thermal spas, and Procida for its peaceful vibe and colorful homes. In my book I go into depth about each island, how to get there and what to see and do while you’re there. When I’m in Naples I love to pop over to Procida (pictured above) for lunch and wander around.

Enjoy Neapolitan Espresso And Sweet Treats

Naples, Italy, is known for its coffee culture, and for having the very best coffee in all of Italy, which is really saying something! Be sure to try a Neapolitan espresso, macchiato or cappuccino at one of the city’s historic cafes. Pair it with a classic sfogliatella (a ricotta-filled pastry) or babà (a rum-soaked cake) for an authentic taste of Naples’ sweet side.

If you haven’t yet bought it, please buy a copy of my new book Glam Italia! 101 Fabulous Things To Do In Naples: Adventures, Intrigue And Glorious Mayhem In Europe’s Most Exciting City. This is your ultimate Naples travel guide, not only full of famous things to do in Naples, Italy but also lesser known, magical places to add to your Naples travel itinerary. Order your copy today!

Want more Italy travel information? Join the tens of thousands of members around the world who receive my monthly Glam Italia newsletter. It’s free and it’s fabulous! Join here.

I thought about titling this post “the Beginner’s Guide To Coffee Culture In Italy”, because coffee is actually part of the culture in Italy. Standing at the bar in a coffee shop, knocking back an espresso (un caffe) is part of the social fabric in this very social country, and if you get the system and your order down, it adds to the magic of your experience in Italy.

The first thing to know is that coffee in Italy is nothing like Starbucks.

Drinks for the most part come in one size and are supposed to be consumed onsite. Stomping your foot and demanding a venti will get you exactly nowhere – venti means 20 in Italian. You will be served your drink in a real cup, not a paper cup. Italians don’t walk around eating and drinking in the streets like we do in the US. It’s fabulous.

The second thing to know is that there is a system that you need to follow.

When you walk into a café (coffee bar) check out the situation before walking up to the bar. I most big city places you will need to pay the cashier first. He will give you a receipt that you will take up to the bar to order with. In smaller coffee shops you can order and pay at the bar.

If you are going to eat something – a pastry, a biscotto, a sandwich for example you need to scope out whats behind the glass before you pay for your order. Have a look, decide what you want and then go tell it to the cashier. Normally everything in a given food category costs the same. Panini are equally priced, all the pastries are one price etc, but there can be variables, so it doesn’t hurt to check first.

Now with your receipt in hand, muscle up to the bar and get the barista’s attention. He or she will grab your receipt, ask you what you’re having, and then tear it so they know the order has been filled.

There are 2 prices for the coffee you are ordering. One is for having it standing at the bar and the other is for taking it to sit at a table. Italians drink their coffee standing at the bar.

It should be noted at this point that a coffee in Italy (un caffe ) is what we here in the states call a shot of espresso.

What To Order

There is no equivalent in Italy to American drip coffee. You also won’t find Coffeemate or flavored coffee creamers. Italian coffee ruins you – it is so incredibly good. After a break in Italy it is near impossible to go back to drinking Starbucks.

The way to ask for your order is to say “un caffe per favore”. In a busy joint you can get away with just saying the name of the drink you want, but you probably will have to get the barista’s attention.

Un Caffe / a coffee.

A coffee is a shot of espresso. It will be served to you in a little cup on a saucer with a teaspoon for sugar. Normally they will also give you a small glass of water on the side.

Un Macchiato.

This is nothing like the huge sugary confection served stateside. It’s a shot of espresso stained (made macchiato) with a drop of milk. If you want the milk to be hot and foamed ask for Macchiato Caldo. This is still served in a little espresso cup.

Un Caffe Con Panna.

This is similar to a macchiato but is sweeter, and instead of milk is topped with a dollop of whipped cream.

Un Cappuccino (or Cappuccio).

cappuccino and panforte — Breakfast in Florence. A cappuccino and a slice of panforte

This is served in a bigger cup, but still not as large as an American tall. A cappuccino is a shot of espresso with foamed milk. Italians only drink this at breakfast time til mid morning. They cringe at the thought of milk sitting on a full stomach. Being that you probably are not his first tourist your barista will happily make you cappuccinos all day long.

Caffe Americano.

This is the closest thing you will get to an American drip coffee. Sort of. It’s a shot of espresso with hot water added. It will still be much stronger than coffee at home.

This drink is strictly for the tourists – no Italian would be caught dead drinking it.

Un Lungo/Caffe Lungo.

You can ask for a caffe lungo (long) for a slightly weaker version.

Un Corretto or Caffe Corretto.

This is “corrected” coffee, said coffee being corrected with a shot of liquor. This could be grappa, brandy, Sambuca, Cognac or I’m sure anything that you would prefer.

Granita Al Caffe

Granita is a cold coffee that comes out of a slushy style machine. Its very creamy and smooth and delicious.

Coffee In Naples

I personally think Italian coffee is the best coffee in the world. In all my travels around the globe I have never had better coffee, or coffee that I have loved better, anywhere.

Within Italy the best coffee I have ever had has been in Naples. I make sure to allow coffee time every time I pass through, even if its just a quick espresso at the train station. But beware – coffee in Naples is strong!

Italians pop into a bar (café/coffee shop) multiple times per day. It’s a fun habit to take part in! If espresso seems too strong to start with just load it up with sugar. You will get the swing of it and develop a taste for it in no time, and before you know it you’ll either be drinking it straight or with just a little sugar before you know it.

I bring home between 5 and 10 pounds of Italian coffee every time I go to Italy. I buy Lavazza Crema E Gusto or Illy You can order both here on Amazon, but they cost a bit more, although they’re still not expensive.

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