Neapolitan terraces: scenic overlooks between sky and sea
Naples is a city best seen from multiple angles — but from above, its skyline brings together sky, sea, and history in a single breathtaking frame.
The panoramic terraces scattered across its hills and headlands offer views made to last in memory: suspended spaces where the eye travels from the Gulf to Mount Vesuvius, from the islands to the endless horizon.
Here are the best places to enjoy this experience — where to go and the best times for that perfect light.
Castel dell’Ovo: a balcony over the bay
One of the most beloved and accessible viewpoints is Castel dell’Ovo. Set directly on the water, it offers a stunning perspective that blends the historic fortress with the harbour skyline, the city, and Mount Vesuvius.
Although often associated with evening strolls, its view is captivating at any time of day.
When to go:
In the evening, to admire the city lights reflected on the sea, or in the morning, when calmness greets the new day.
Monte Echia elevator and belvedere: the cradle of Parthenope
Now revitalized with a new panoramic elevator, Monte Echia (also known as Pizzofalcone) offers a stunning and easily accessible viewpoint over the Gulf of Naples.
From here, you can take in Castel dell’Ovo, the Borgo Marinari, Mount Vesuvius, Capri, and Posillipo — all in a single sweeping view.
When to go:
At sunset or in the evening, when the low sunlight bathes the sea and city in warm tones, and the city lights begin to sparkle.
San Martino and Castel Sant’Elmo: the high heart of the city
At the highest point of the Vomero hill, San Martino and Castel Sant’Elmo share one of the most iconic viewpoints in all of Naples.
From the belvedere of the Certosa di San Martino, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the historic city stretching toward the sea — Spaccanapoli, its domes, the port, Mount Vesuvius, and the islands in the distance.
Just above, the panoramic walkway of Castel Sant’Elmo, with its star-shaped layout, offers a 360-degree view embracing the entire bay and the hillside neighborhoods.
When to go:
Sunset is the most spectacular moment, when golden light highlights the city’s skyline. But nightfall, with lights flickering beneath your feet, brings a unique emotion.
It’s a perfect place for photography — but also to listen to the silence, which, from up here, tells the full story of Naples in all its layered beauty.
Eremo dei Camaldoli: the highest viewpoint over the city
At the far end of the Camaldoli Hill, over 450 metres above sea level, the Eremo dei Camaldoli towers over Naples, offering a truly panoramic view of the Gulf and beyond.
From here, the gaze stretches from Mount Vesuvius to the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida, reaching as far as the Phlegraean Fields and even Mount Circeo on clear days.
When to go:
In the morning or late afternoon, when the soft light sharpens the contours of the coastline and surrounding hills — perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.
A walk here means breathing in an air of peace and detachment, far from the rhythm of the city below.
Villa Floridiana Belvedere: the sea framed by greenery and cityscape
Nestled within its namesake park in the Vomero district, the Villa Floridiana Belvedere offers elegant glimpses of the Gulf of Naples, like a painting where the blue of the sea meets the green of the gardens.
When to go:
Early afternoon or sunset, when sunlight brings out the vivid colours of the sea and surrounding flowerbeds.
It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with a view.
Belvedere of the 13 Descents of Sant’Antonio: Naples from Below, Sea Beyond
In the Posillipo area, the Belvedere of the 13 Descents of Sant’Antonio, alongside its namesake church, offers an iconic view over Naples' rooftops, the sea, and Mount Vesuvius.
It’s one of those perspectives that tells the city from the bottom up.
When to go:
At sunset, to experience that magical moment when the city's colors and the sea blend into twilight.
Via Petrarca Belvedere: the Gulf in full view
Located along the same scenic stretch, the Via Petrarca Belvedere opens directly onto the Gulf of Naples, offering a wide, unobstructed view of the city — from the seafront to the islands.
When to go:
In the morning or late afternoon, when sunlight dances on the waves, creating shimmering reflections.
Parco Virgiliano: a terrace overlooking the Phlegraean Fields
Perched atop the Posillipo Hill, Parco Virgiliano is a true natural amphitheatre overlooking the sea. From its multiple terraces, the view stretches across Nisida, Procida, Ischia, and Capri, as well as the Bay of Pozzuoli and the Phlegraean coast.
It’s the perfect spot to take in the grandeur of a constantly shifting landscape.
When to go:
At sunset, to enjoy a visual and sensory experience that turns every visit into an unforgettable spectacle.
Naples from above: a city to rediscover from every vantage point
Each terrace is an invitation to see Naples anew —
morning brings crisp clarity,
afternoon reveals striking contrasts of light,
sunset offers enchanting colours,
and evening reflects the city’s lights upon the sea.
Here, between sky and water, you can grasp the city’s most poetic essence, suspended between history, nature, and vision.
