10 Things to Do and See as a Solo Traveller in Chiaia, Naples

The answer is yes if you’re wondering if you should go to Chiaia. You’ll see Naples in a new light once you are in Chiaia. And in case you’re wondering what Chiaia has to offer, let me walk you through the top things to do and see as a solo traveller in Chiaia.

1. Visit the Villa Comunale Park

If you want a leisurely day at Chiaia, visit the Villa Comunale Park. It is one of the top things to do in Chiaia. Once a royal garden, the park now offers you a stunning view of the seafront from the coastline of Chiaia. 

You can reach the park easily on foot and stay there as long as you want. You can either go for a walk to explore the garden or sit and adore the view over a good cup of Neapolitan coffee. The choice is yours! 

But, whatever you do, make sure to visit the Anton Dohrn Aquarium. Yes, you read it right, the park houses an aquarium. Isn’t that great? The aquarium is open all days except on Monday. 

2. Museo Pignatelli

You can continue your solo travel in Chiaia by visiting Museo Pignatelli, only a few metres away from Villa Comunale Park. This home-styled museum offers a different experience than a traditional museum.

The museum is split into three sections (mainly). I recommend you begin your tour by viewing the antique collections from the nineteenth century. Following your exploration of the House of Photography, proceed to the garden. Last but not least, make your way to the Carriage Museum. It displays a collection of carriages, as the name implies.

You can book a museum tour in advance through a reputable agency or explore it on your own. The entrance fee to the museum is approximately 5 euros.

The museum is open every day except for Tuesday. You can use public transportation, like the bus or metro, to get there and enter the premises between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

3. Admire the art at Palazzo Delle Arti Napoli

Palazzo Delle Arti Napoli, an art museum in Chiaia, exhibits the best modern arts in Naples. The museum has three floors, a library, cafés, and terraces. It is open from Monday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Even though you can visit the museum for free, the exhibition’s ticket prices vary from time to time. It is usually around 10 euros.

Aside from that, the only drawback to this museum is that they rotate exhibitions of international and local artists throughout the year. So, check whose work they are currently exhibiting before purchasing the ticket. And only visit if their work piques your interest.

4. Kiaya Bridge – Ponte di Chiaia

One of the popular things to do in Chiaia is to catch sight of the Kiaya Bridge. It is also popularly known as the Chiaia Bridge. The bridge with two arches was built as a connector between San Carlo and Pizzofalcone hill.

Although you can only see one of its arches, it remains one of the major attractions of the neighbourhood. You can simply walk along Via Chiaia (street) to witness this neo-classical structure.

5. Church of Santa Caterina a Chiaia

You do not have to go out of your way to visit the Church of Santa Caterina. It is on the Via Chiaia only. If you have time, make a quick visit to this church. I am sure you will be surprised to see its interior. It’s quaint and small and shows artworks of the bygone eras.

Timings: Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.

                Sunday: 8 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

6. Lungomare di Napoli

It’s time to treat your eyes with a picturesque view of the Mediterranean at Lungomare di Napoli. It will take you 20 minutes to reach this place from Chiaia, but it’s worth every second of yours.

This waterfront begs to be framed! And I am not exaggerating. You get a panoramic view of the entire bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius without any hindrance. You can walk, sit back and do whatever you want here. And do not forget to photograph the scenery and also to photograph yourself! 

7. Mappatella beach 

One of the less-touristy places in Chiaia is Mappatella beach. It’s comparatively smaller than other beaches in Naples, but its ambience makes up for it. You can relax and unwind and have your dose of vitamin sea at this beach.

However, make sure you follow all the guidelines of the beach. And DO NOT litter around. You may have to pay a hefty amount for doing so. Besides, it is our responsibility to take care of the environment.

8. Go on a shopping spree at Chiaia

Are you a shopaholic? Then Chiaia has the best stores for you to shop in Naples. Shopping is one of the best things to do in Chiaia. So, do not sin skipping it at any cost.

Coming to cost, shopping in Chiaia tends to be a bit pricey. All the shops are branded and give you a taste of fantastic Italian fashion. In short, Chiaia is the ideal place for what I call “luxury shopping.” From Rubinacci to Gemelli da Polsi, you’ll find yourself between high-end products. Aside from this, trade the small street shops to land some real deal. 

And the best part about shopping in Chiaia is no car on the street. The shopping street is exclusive only for pedestrians. This means you can walk around freely and cruise through the shops. 

A Tip: Set a budget for shopping at Chiaia. You’ll never know when and how you have spent hundreds of euros. 

9. Hog on food at Chiaia

Given the popularity of Naples’ food, you have to see what Chiaia offers. And it is everything a foodie ever dreams of, from fine dining experiences to street food and cute cafes to takeaways. 

Suppose you want to taste authentic Italian food, head to Spadara Bistrò and Al Vecchio Capannaccio. And in case your heart longs for some authentic Neapolitan food in Chiaia, visit Pescheria Mattiucci and Umberto. I loved eating at the latter. Their Neapolitan pizza and pasta are delicious. And do not forget to try their octopus with mashed potato. It’s a delicacy. 

An average meal cost at Chiaia is around €30-50, including drinks. And some places to eat at Chiaia even require bookings. So, make sure you know everything before heading to any particular eatery.

10. Enjoy the nightlife at Chiaia

The best nightlife of Naples takes place at Chiaia. It has the liveliest and safest nightlife you’ll ever come across in Naples. Thus, you should not miss it. Plenty of bars, pubs, and wineries cater to all the needs of travellers and locals. If you’re a party owl, you’re meant to experience the nightlife at Chiaia!

Many wineries serve wine with salami and cheese on the side. And that’s a bomb combination. Give it a try. The clubs at Chiaia generally open around 11:30 p.m. and remains open till the wee hours. That means you can dance all night.

Two of my favourite place to hang out at Chiaia at night have to be Swig Chiaia and Around the Corner (yes, that’s the name). They both are excellent at service and serve an exceptional selection of food and liquors. 

Are you going to stay a night at Chiaia?

By now, you must have realised that Chiaia in Naples is not just a mere posh neighbourhood. It is full of life and unique experiences. Thus, if you’re on solo travel to Naples for longer, make sure to stay a night at Chiaia. This way, you will be able to experience Chiaia thoroughly. If you’re on a budget trip to Naples, do not worry. There is plenty of budget-friendly stays at Chiaia as well.

Share your solo travel experience in Chiaia in the comments below. Until next time, happy travelling!