If you’re planning a trip to Italy and can’t decide between Rome or Naples, the best solution is to visit both. These two Italian cities are different yet wonderfully complementary. Rome takes you back in time with ancient ruins, elegant palaces and historic piazzas, while Naples sweeps you away with its vibrant energy, authentic street life, and breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius.
The great news is that Rome and Naples are very close to each other and well-connected by affordable high-speed trains and budget buses, making it easy to combine them in one trip. In just a few days you can experience two completely different sides of Italy: one more classic and monumental, the other more authentic and passionate, without complicating your travel plans.
Table of Contents
Rome and Naples: Two Italian Cities, Two Different Souls
Naples and Rome tell very different stories, yet both showcase the essence of Italy. Rome, known as the Eternal City, feels like an open-air museum where every corner reveals traces of a glorious past. Walking past the Colosseum, the Pantheon or the Trevi Fountain, you’ll be surrounded by history. Elegant squares, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches create a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
Naples, on the other hand, is pure life and energy. Here art blends with daily life: Spaccanapoli is a maze of narrow streets filled with scents, laughter and music, while Mount Vesuvius dominates the horizon as a reminder of nature’s power. It’s a more chaotic and spontaneous city, deeply rooted in its traditions. And then there’s the food: from the iconic Neapolitan pizza to the intense espresso, every bite and sip is an unforgettable experience.
Visiting Rome and Naples in one trip allows you to experience two very different but complementary Italys. One is grand and orderly; the other raw and passionate. With excellent train and bus connections, you can discover both without stress, enriching your itinerary with two unique perspectives of Italian culture.
How to Travel Between Rome and Naples: Train or Bus
Getting from Rome to Naples is simple thanks to frequent and affordable transport. The most convenient option is the train, ideal if you want to save time. There are around 125 trains per day between Naples and Rome, most of them direct.
The distance of 189 km can be covered in just 1 hour and 10 minutes with a high-speed train, perfect if you’re short on time and want to maximise your visit. If you’re travelling on a budget and don’t mind a longer journey, you can take slower regional trains, which sometimes require changes but cost less.
Even cheaper is the bus. Companies like Flixbus, Itabus or Marino Bus offer direct services with tickets starting from only €5. The journey takes about two and a half hours, depending on traffic and departure point.
How to Save Money on Rome–Naples Tickets
Travelling between Rome and Naples can be very affordable if you book in advance. The average price for a same-day high-speed train ticket is around €51, but if you book a few weeks ahead you can pay as little as €17 or even less. Train companies release their cheapest fares early, and prices rise closer to the travel date.
Another way to save money is to avoid peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon trains. Travelling at midday or off-peak times is often cheaper. Always check the official websites of Trenitalia and Italo to compare schedules and prices. Sometimes, they offer special deals that are only available online.
If you prefer having everything in one place, platforms like Omio and Trainline are really handy for multi-stop itineraries. You can keep all your tickets on your phone without worrying about losing them.
Getting Around Rome and Naples Without Stress
Both Rome and Naples are wonderful to explore on foot, but you’ll still need public transport to reach attractions that are further apart. Taxis are available in both cities but can be expensive.
In Rome, distances are larger, so the metro is the fastest way to get around. There are three main metro lines connecting the Colosseum, Termini Station and the Vatican, but you’ll often need buses or trams to reach neighbourhoods like Trastevere or Gianicolo. If you love walking, plan your sightseeing by area and dedicate each day to a different part of the city.
Naples is more compact, especially the historic centre, where most attractions are within walking distance. Spaccanapoli, Piazza del Plebiscito and the seafront are easily explored on foot. To reach Vomero or Posillipo hill, take the scenic funicular railway for amazing views of Vesuvius.
Best Time to Visit Rome and Naples
Rome and Naples are beautiful year-round, but some seasons are more pleasant.
Spring (March to May) is probably the best time to visit. Days are longer, the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing without suffering the summer heat. Autumn (September to October) is also ideal, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in summer.
Summer (June to August) is the hottest and busiest season. Rome and Naples can get very humid, with temperatures over 35°C, and the most famous sites are crowded. If you travel in summer, plan sightseeing early in the morning and spend relaxed afternoons in air-conditioned museums.
Winter has its own charm, especially in December when both cities are beautifully decorated for Christmas. In Rome you can enjoy the magical atmosphere of St Peter’s Square, while in Naples the famous nativity scenes on Via San Gregorio Armeno make the city even more special, though it can be crowded.
How Many Days to Spend in Rome and Naples
How long you stay in Rome and Naples depends on how deeply you want to explore each city. I visit these cities regularly, and I still find new places to visit. However, for a good introduction, spend at least three days in Rome and two days in Naples.
Rome has so much to see that it never feels enough. Between the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican Museuns and the iconic piazzas, each day will be full of discoveries. Three days let you see the highlights without rushing and still leave time to wander through authentic neighbourhoods like Trastevere or Monti.
Naples can be enjoyed in two days, giving you enough time to explore the historic centre, taste authentic Neapolitan pizza, visit the Archaeological Museum and stroll along the seafront with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Rome and Naples: A Perfect Italy Itinerary
Visiting Rome and Naples in one trip is the best way to discover two very different yet complementary sides of Italy. Rome embraces you with its millennia of history, ancient ruins and elegant palaces, while Naples wins your heart with its vibrant streets, lively atmosphere and unforgettable cuisine.
Thanks to fast trains and affordable buses, you can easily combine both cities in one Italy itinerary and enjoy a journey full of art, culture and authentic flavours. If you have ever visited Rome and Naples in one trip, share your experience and travel tips in the comments below!
