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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 23 September, 2022
Expert travel writer: Nicky Swallow

Home to one of the greatest hoards of Greek and Roman treasures anywhere in the world, this 17th-century palazzo houses King Ferdinando’s enormous collection, along with artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum and Stabiae.

The collections include room after room of brilliant sculptures, mosaics and wall paintings, including the famous Farnese marbles. Another highlight is the Gabinetto Segreto, a collection of pornographic artifacts and mosaics from the houses of Pompeii and other sites.

Price from: £8
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

It would be easy to spend a whole day here; arrive early to appreciate the works in some degree of peace. Audio tours in English are available at the entrance, where you can also book a tour of the Gabinetto Segreto.

For logistical reasons (often staff shortages), various rooms in the museums tend to close temporarily and without much notice. It’s worth checking on the website ahead of your visit in order to avoid disappointment.

When to do it

The museum is open all year round, Tuesday-Sunday.

The museum is popular for noisy school trips which tend to happen in the mornings; visit in the afternoon to avoid gangs of bored, chattering students.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

National Archaeological Museum of Naples

National Archaeological Museum of Naples

Naples

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is a precious treasure chest ranging from the collection of finds from Magna Grecia, to the fir...

€50 | Rating 4.66 / 5 [21 ratings]

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Climb Mount Vesuvius

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Climb to the summit of one of the world’s most famous active volcanoes for sweeping views of Naples.

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The remarkably-preserved ruins of a thriving Roman town famously smothered in choking volcanic ash. Stroll Pompeii’s streets and see the town as it was that day in extraordinary detail – right down to ruts in the roads caused by chariot wheels.

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ruined street at the ruins of Herculaneum, Naples
Experience

Herculaneum

Naples, Campania, Italy[9.8 miles]

Pompeii‘s less famous neighbour, the Roman town of Herculaneum was also destroyed by the AD 79 AD eruption. Only partially excavated (a large part of the ancient town still lies under modern Ercolano) it is much smaller but better preserved than Pompeii, and in many ways more vivid. Short suburban train from Naples.

Best for ages: 18+ | £12

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