spaccanapoli

my hotel (Piazza Bellini) was just around the corner from Spaccanapoli and this was the first place I headed for. It is one long, narrow street criss-crossed with alleyways and tiny streets. I loved the bustle and the energy and, every few feet, I came across a beautiful old church, a facade or a Piazza. Both times I visited it was crowded and I was constantly dodging mopeds! I never felt unsafe, although I was careful with my bag and my camera. Enjoy just wandering along, try the cafes, visit the Churches and watch out for the mopeds!

You CANNOT visit Naples and not visit the Spaccanapoli district - in the Centro Storico - because this IS Naples - the atmospheric heart - which is Naples at it's heady, high octane best! You can wander probably for days around all the ancient streets taking in all the city's most intriguing sights! This is unmissable Naples - especially VIA SAN GREGORIO ARMENO - the street where all the famous Neapolitan christmas cribs - presepi - are made.

It is the historic center, so a must see. We found it better to combine walking along this street with visiting churches on it (Gesu Nuovo and Santa Chiara) and near it (Cappella Sansevero and the Duomo). The street was very crowded when we visited (twice); we were not particularly interested in any of those shops on the street. But combining walking on this must-see street with church visits was very good. The churches are wonderful--don't miss any of them!

We stayed one night in Naples before catching an early flight the next morning. We stayed at the Hotel Piazza Bellini which is within easy walking distance. We were able to do quite a bit during our one brief day, but if I had to choose just one thing, it would be to walk around Spaccanapoli, sample the street food and absorb the neighborhood.

Everything is around this road, a concentrate of the glorious history of Naples meets walking into this place, churches, palaces, old famous shops and the historic university complex.

This is the historical centre of Naples. Narrow streets with many shops and restaurants, lots of people, mopeds, close to the original Italy that everyone visions

Not sure how exactly I should describe the people, the music, the smells, the colors ...the joy and the love you see and feel in the streets of Spaccanapoli....INCREDIBLE!Go and try!!!

The most amazing area to walk through. Narrow streets between apartments, washing hanging on lines, everyday shops (no Armani here!), locals going about their daily lives, noise, motorbikes or bicycles whizzing past. As a solo traveller I did not feel unsafe or threatened but you have to keep your wits about you. I would not go there at night but if you are going to Naples you have to see this area. You will be amazed!

From the Piazza del Jesù it is a short walk to the Piazza San Domenico Maggiore - a lovely church near the Museo and Capella Sansevero - but every meter is a struggle as the streets of the Scappanapoli are so densely crowded that one simply is jostled along at the pace of the mass. Forget about crossing Naples this way, the kitschy stores and knick-knack vendors are not worth the effort and the time. Instead, go one block up to Via Tribunali (parallel to the Scappa) and enjoy one of the fine pizzerias along the way there (Pizzeria Sorbillo, Pizzeria i Decumani, Pizzeria di Matteo).

Loved this area. Its where most tourists come but still has a good feel of Naples. Its very clean and the architecture is fantastic, full of surprises. Best is to sit down and watch the world go by.

Once here, don't plan and don't schedule....allow yourself to get lost in the small streets surrounding Spaccanapoli. The only way to savour the real spirit of the town is by getting lost inside its heart. Don't be afraid to taste all the delicacies and street food sold from the small shops......just remember to avoid bringing expensive watches or valuable cameras/mobile phones and you' ll be safe.

The "real" Naples is still alive in the narrow streets of Spaccanapoli. Better go during the daytime, as the streets and marketplaces are lively - during night the streetlights are scarce and the streets empty. No fear of robbery, though (?)

Tried looking for this street from the reviews I read. We went in end Oct/early Nov and it was pleasantly vibrant. If I go again il try this little fried prawn shop which everyone was having. Unfortunately we just ate lunch and had no space for anything else.

This is a Long narrow street, teeming with life and opening onto small piazzas. It cuts old Naples in half and is home to many of the must see churches and attractions in the city. Watch out for the mopeds that pass you by and keep your valuables safely stowed away!

It is the street that 'cuts' Naples in two parts. Walking in this city, with all its sounds, colours and extraordinary people is an unforgettable experience.