What are the main catacombs to visit and where are they located?

The two main catacombs are the **Catacombs of San Gennaro** and the **Catacombs of San Gaudioso**, both rich in early Christian art, history, and architecture. San Gennaro lies near the Capodimonte area, close to the Basilica of Good Shepherd. San Gaudioso sits beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità in the Sanità district.

How old are the Catacombs of Naples?

The Catacombs date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, with expansions and modifications continuing through the early Christian and medieval periods.

How long does a visit take?

A guided tour typically lasts about 45–60 minutes, after which you can explore by yourself. Depending on your pace and interest, combined tickets for multiple sites may take longer.

What can I expect to see at the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

The Catacombs of San Gennaro feature vast open spaces, early Christian frescoes, and the Crypt of the Bishops, making them the largest and most significant underground burial site in Naples.

What is unique about the Catacombs of San Gaudioso?

The San Gaudioso Catacombs combine early Christian burials with unique 17th-century Baroque elements, including skull-and-bones wall decor and frescoes that reflect Neapolitan funerary traditions.

Are the Naples Catacombs safe to visit? Are they suitable for visitors with claustrophobia?

Yes, the catacombs are safe for visitors. Tours are guided, and pathways are well-lit and maintained. While generally suitable due to the wide spaces, those with claustrophobia should be mindful of the enclosed sections.

Are the Catacombs wheelchair accessible?

Due to the number of steps and uneven terrain, the catacombs are not fully accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers.

Are the Catacombs connected to other underground sites in Naples?

Yes, the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Catacombs of San Gaudioso are part of a larger network of underground sites in the Rione Sanità. This area was once a necropolis and burial ground, called "Sanità" (health) in the 17th century. There are nine catacombs and cave complexes under the Rione Sanità, including San Severo and the Fontanelle ossuary. There are separate entrances for these other sites.

Can I bring my kids to the Catacombs, or is it too intense?

Kids are welcome. However some young children may find the site disturbing, so it is important that their guardian make the judgement and accompany them at all times.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

While you can purchase tickets on-site, it is recommended to book online to avoid long queues and secure your preferred tour time. Tickets often include access to both San Gennaro and San Gaudioso.

Is photography allowed inside the Catacombs of Naples?

Photography is allowed in some areas but restricted in others, so check the rules before snapping. If permitted, a phone or camera with a low-light setting will help capture the beauty of the frescoes and architecture.

Catacombs of Naples Tickets

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Silvia

Dec 2025

‌

Many people but beautiful experience. The entrance was easy and convenient. Underground Naples was an emotionally charged experience

Alessandro

Dec 2025

‌

Beautiful experience with a very professional prepared and nice guide! Underground Naples is a wonder to discover and therefore impossible not to go there.

Nicoletta

Italy

Feb 2026

A wonderful tour, interesting and fascinating, discovering the underground world of Naples. A beautiful itinerary with lots of detailed explanations that were both entertaining and easy to follow, thanks to the excellent guide Antonio.

Cristina

Italy

Feb 2026

The guide, Antonio, was wonderful ❤️ really great and empathetic, and we had never been to such a unique underground place before. Everything was magnificent, well done!

Mario

Feb 2026

The young man who guided us was very clear and engaging. The description of the fabulous nativity scene in the sacristy of the basilica was delightful. The catacombs were a source of interest for my wife and me in terms of the past and present history of the district. Special thanks for the commitment of the young people from the La Paranza cooperative.

Stefano

Italy

Feb 2026

A unique and evocative experience! The catacombs of Naples are an incredible place, full of history and mystery. The visit was exciting and educational! A big thank you to our guide, she was incredible! Her passion and knowledge made the visit to the catacombs of Naples an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!

Romano

Italy

Dec 2025

I visited underground Naples in the Spanish quarters with my family and a nice group of other tourists. Giulia, our young but well-prepared guide, took us through the narrow underground passages, introducing us to a reality of Naples that we did not know, with anecdotes and curiosities that made the tour very interesting and lighter than expected. Perhaps also thanks to the presence of O' Munaciello??? Highly recommended!

Boris

United States

Dec 2025

Great presentation and insight into the history of Naples. Very engaging guide that keeps you involved, interested, and entertained at he same time. Definitely a must see in Naples.

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Why visit the Catacombs of Naples?

🪦Naples' largest underground burial sites

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are the most expansive, covering 5,600 square meters carved into the volcanic tuff of Capodimonte Hill. The Catacombs of San Gaudioso are the second largest.

🎨Unique art and architecture

Witness early Christian frescoes and mosaics, along with unique 17th-century burial practices that reflect the evolution of religious art and architecture.

🎟️Two sites in one ticket

Get tickets to both San Gennaro and San Gaudioso in one purchase. Choose which one you will visit first, and visit the other one within 12 months.

📑Educational value

Learn about evolving burial customs, early Christian iconography, and the historical context dating all the way back to the 2nd century AD on a one-hour guided tour.

What to see inside the Catacombs of San Gaudioso?

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Early Christian frescoes

Admire beautifully preserved frescoes depicting biblical scenes, saints, and early Christian symbols. These artworks offer a glimpse into the spiritual life and artistic traditions of the early Christian community.

17th-century skull and bones decor

See unique burial traditions where skulls were embedded in the walls, and bodies were depicted in painted frescos below. This reflects the Baroque era's perspective on mortality and resurrection.

Tombs of prominent figures

Visit burial niches and sarcophagi of notable early Christians and aristocrats, including the resting place of San Gaudioso, a 5th-century Tunisian bishop who gave the catacombs their name.

Ancient underground basilica

Explore the small underground basilica with its altar and intricately carved spaces for prayer, reflecting the early Christian community’s religious practices.

Tuff stone architecture

Observe the impressive use of volcanic tuff stone, which makes up the structure of the catacombs, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient builders.

Symbolic Christian iconography

Discover symbols such as fish, doves, and chi-rho, which were used by early Christians to convey messages of faith in a covert manner during periods of persecution.

1/7

The Crypt of the Bishops

A richly decorated space where several early bishops of Naples were buried. It features intricate frescoes and mosaics dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries, depicting biblical scenes and early Christian art.

The Basilica of Sant'Aggripino

This large underground basilica is a central highlight of the lower layer of the Catacombs, showcasing spacious halls with impressive columns carved directly from volcanic tuff stone. It served as a place of gathering and fellowship, and is still used for mass!

The Tomb of San Gennaro

While the city’s main patron Saint Gennaro’s relics were moved in later centuries, his original burial site remains a focal point, revered for its spiritual and historical significance.

Early Christian frescoes

The walls of the catacombs are full of beautifully preserved frescoes, including depictions of saints like Pascientus, fish (a symbol of Christ), and other Christian motifs dating back to the 2nd century AD.

The Baptismal Font

The grand lower vestibule, with towering 6-meter-high ceilings, features a striking baptismal font commissioned by Bishop Paul II, who sought refuge in the Catacombs of San Gennaro during the 8th-century iconoclastic clashes.

The Lower Catacombs

A labyrinth of burial niches and galleries on another level showcasing the scale and depth of these ancient burial chambers.

The Bishop's Chair

A carved stone chair, likely used by bishops during ceremonies held in the underground basilica, symbolizing the authority of the early Church in Naples.

How to reach

Catacombs of San Gennaro

🚌By bus: Take lines 168, 178, C63, or R4 and alight at the Basilica Incoronata - Catacombe San Gennaro stop.

🚇By metro: Take Metro Line 1 to the Materdei station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the catacombs.

Catacombs of San Gaudioso

🚌By bus: Take lines C51, C52, or 204 and alight at Amedeo Di Savoia 180. Buses run every 10 minutes daily.

🚇By metro: Take Metro Line 1 to the Materdei station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the catacombs.

Naples Underground locations

Visitor tips

The Catacombs can be quieter in the morning, giving you a more serene and immersive experience without the crowds.
Don’t be afraid to ask your guide questions to gain a deeper understanding of Naples' rich history and the role of Christianity in shaping the city's cultural heritage.
After visiting the Catacombs of San Gennaro, explore the nearby Capodimonte Museum and Park. From San Gaudioso, wander through the vibrant Sanità District, known for its street art and local food.
Spend some time exploring the Basilicas where you enter the Catacombs – Basilica Santa Maria della Sanità above San Gaudioso, and Madre del Buon Consiglio Basilica of San Gennaro.

Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions about the Catacombs of Naples

The Catacombs of Naples are ancient underground burial sites carved into volcanic tuff stone. Early Christians used them for burials and as places of worship during periods of persecution.

Flexible entry to Naples' largest Christian burial sites with an expert guide.

Do it your way. Visit San Gennaro or San Gaudioso catacombs first with a 1-hour guided tour, and the other catacombs within 12 months.
At the Catacombs of San Gaudioso, see early mosaics like Christ Pantocrator and learn about morbid 17th-century burial processes.
At the Catacombs of San Gennaro, explore grand crypts, basilicas, and the tombs of Naples' patron saint and bishops.
Admire intricate frescoes and Byzantine paintings from the 9th and 10th centuries, and a baptismal font commissioned by Bishop Paul II.

Inclusions #

1-hour guided tour of the San Gaudioso Catacombs with entry
1-hour guided tour of the San Gennaro Catacombs with entry
Entry to Basilica di Santa Maria della Sanità
Expert English or Italian-speaking guide

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Join a guided tour of the Bourbon Tunnel with an entry ticket that takes you on a fascinating expedition through the rich history of Naples' subterranean landscape.
Along the route, learn about the technical solutions adopted by the designer, Errico Alvino, as well as the geological problems encountered through the excavation.
See the bomb bunker astutely utilized during World War II and admire the 3 bridges and the walls built to cross the cisterns while preserving their functionality.
View the remains from the World War era such as fragments of vintage cars, motorcycles, and statues. Select either an English or Italian guided tour.

Inclusions #

English or Italian guided tour
Admission ticket to Bourbon Tunnel
Artecard Campania (optional)
Artecard Napoli (optional)

Exclusions #

Hotel transfers
Personal expenses

Tip: Don’t forget to raft through a small water tank in the tunnel connected to one of the old subway tunnels.
This tour involves some walking, so make sure you put on comfortable shoes and clothes during your visit.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Follow a licensed English or Italian-speaking guide on a captivating 1-hour tour of the Catacombs of San Gaudioso.
This guided tour will lead you through winding tunnels under the city to explore the eternal resting places of historic figures like Bishop San Gaudioso.
Marvel at the ornate tombs and gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city.
Enter San Gennaro and be amazed by the unique and macabre art collection featuring frescoes made using real bones and skulls
Upgrade your ticket to include the Artecard Campania and avail discounts, 5 free entries and so much more!

Inclusions #

1-hour guided tour of the Catacombs of San Gaudioso
Expert English or Italian-speaking guide
Entrance to Catacombs of San Gennaro
Artecard Campania (optional)
Artecard Napoli (optional)

Tip: Bring along a sweater, even in hot weather, as the temperature in the catacombs varies between 15 and 22°.
Relief plaques along the route make it possible for guests with visual impairment to participate.
Facilities: Free Parking
This tour is unsuitable for wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Walk through the SpaccaNapoli, a road that provides access to Naples’ most popular destinations, and the city’s historic center with a guide.
Stroll through the 2000-year-old Underground Ruins which were once used as bomb shelters during WWII.
Revel in the city’s art galleries, markets, and bars to get a taste of daily life.
Visit the Catacombs in the Cathedral of San Gennaro and learn about its historical past.

Inclusions #

2.5-hr guided tour of Naples
Local English and Italian-speaking guide
Underground Ruins entrance fee
Lunch - Caprese salad, pasta, dessert, and beverages (as per option selected)
Standard, small, or semi-private group tour (up to 40, 18, or 8 people as per option selected)

SpaccaNapoli
San Gregorio Armeno
Underground Ruins
San Gennaro

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tip: In order to make the best use of this card, plan your itinerary in advance to cover the top attractions.
In order to activate the Card, you must contact the service provider as per the instructions in the voucher you will receive after booking.
The digital pass is available in English and Italian.
Downloading the pass may take up to 10 minutes.
Enter anytime within operating hours 9am to 7pm.

Inclusions #

Free entry to the first 3 sites
Up to 50% discount from the 4th site onwards
3 days of unlimited public transport use
Discounts and concessions
Tourist assistance while using the card

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
These tickets are valid for an extended duration. The exact details will be present on the ticket.

Flexible entry to Naples' largest Christian burial sites with an expert guide.

Do it your way. Visit San Gennaro or San Gaudioso catacombs first with a 1-hour guided tour, and the other catacombs within 12 months.
At the Catacombs of San Gaudioso, see early mosaics like Christ Pantocrator and learn about morbid 17th-century burial processes.
At the Catacombs of San Gennaro, explore grand crypts, basilicas, and the tombs of Naples' patron saint and bishops.
Admire intricate frescoes and Byzantine paintings from the 9th and 10th centuries, and a baptismal font commissioned by Bishop Paul II.

Inclusions #

1-hour guided tour of the San Gaudioso Catacombs with entry
1-hour guided tour of the San Gennaro Catacombs with entry
Entry to Basilica di Santa Maria della Sanità
Expert English or Italian-speaking guide

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Join a guided tour of the Bourbon Tunnel with an entry ticket that takes you on a fascinating expedition through the rich history of Naples' subterranean landscape.
Along the route, learn about the technical solutions adopted by the designer, Errico Alvino, as well as the geological problems encountered through the excavation.
See the bomb bunker astutely utilized during World War II and admire the 3 bridges and the walls built to cross the cisterns while preserving their functionality.
View the remains from the World War era such as fragments of vintage cars, motorcycles, and statues. Select either an English or Italian guided tour.

Inclusions #

English or Italian guided tour
Admission ticket to Bourbon Tunnel
Artecard Campania (optional)
Artecard Napoli (optional)

Exclusions #

Hotel transfers
Personal expenses

Tip: Don’t forget to raft through a small water tank in the tunnel connected to one of the old subway tunnels.
This tour involves some walking, so make sure you put on comfortable shoes and clothes during your visit.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Follow a licensed English or Italian-speaking guide on a captivating 1-hour tour of the Catacombs of San Gaudioso.
This guided tour will lead you through winding tunnels under the city to explore the eternal resting places of historic figures like Bishop San Gaudioso.
Marvel at the ornate tombs and gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city.
Enter San Gennaro and be amazed by the unique and macabre art collection featuring frescoes made using real bones and skulls
Upgrade your ticket to include the Artecard Campania and avail discounts, 5 free entries and so much more!

Inclusions #

1-hour guided tour of the Catacombs of San Gaudioso
Expert English or Italian-speaking guide
Entrance to Catacombs of San Gennaro
Artecard Campania (optional)
Artecard Napoli (optional)

Tip: Bring along a sweater, even in hot weather, as the temperature in the catacombs varies between 15 and 22°.
Relief plaques along the route make it possible for guests with visual impairment to participate.
Facilities: Free Parking
This tour is unsuitable for wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Walk through the SpaccaNapoli, a road that provides access to Naples’ most popular destinations, and the city’s historic center with a guide.
Stroll through the 2000-year-old Underground Ruins which were once used as bomb shelters during WWII.
Revel in the city’s art galleries, markets, and bars to get a taste of daily life.
Visit the Catacombs in the Cathedral of San Gennaro and learn about its historical past.

Inclusions #

2.5-hr guided tour of Naples
Local English and Italian-speaking guide
Underground Ruins entrance fee
Lunch - Caprese salad, pasta, dessert, and beverages (as per option selected)
Standard, small, or semi-private group tour (up to 40, 18, or 8 people as per option selected)

SpaccaNapoli
San Gregorio Armeno
Underground Ruins
San Gennaro

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Tip: In order to make the best use of this card, plan your itinerary in advance to cover the top attractions.
In order to activate the Card, you must contact the service provider as per the instructions in the voucher you will receive after booking.
The digital pass is available in English and Italian.
Downloading the pass may take up to 10 minutes.
Enter anytime within operating hours 9am to 7pm.

Inclusions #

Free entry to the first 3 sites
Up to 50% discount from the 4th site onwards
3 days of unlimited public transport use
Discounts and concessions
Tourist assistance while using the card

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
These tickets are valid for an extended duration. The exact details will be present on the ticket.

Guided Tours

‌

Catacombs of Naples Entry Tickets & Guided Tour

Flexible entry to Naples' largest Christian burial sites with an expert guide.

Do it your way. Visit San Gennaro or San Gaudioso catacombs first with a 1-hour guided tour, and the other catacombs within 12 months.
At the Catacombs of San Gaudioso, see early mosaics like Christ Pantocrator and learn about morbid 17th-century burial processes.
At the Catacombs of San Gennaro, explore grand crypts, basilicas, and the tombs of Naples' patron saint and bishops.
Admire intricate frescoes and Byzantine paintings from the 9th and 10th centuries, and a baptismal font commissioned by Bishop Paul II.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr.

Guided Tours

‌

Bourbon Tunnel Entry Tickets & Guided Tour

Join a guided tour of the Bourbon Tunnel with an entry ticket that takes you on a fascinating expedition through the rich history of Naples' subterranean landscape.
Along the route, learn about the technical solutions adopted by the designer, Errico Alvino, as well as the geological problems encountered through the excavation.
See the bomb bunker astutely utilized during World War II and admire the 3 bridges and the walls built to cross the cisterns while preserving their functionality.
View the remains from the World War era such as fragments of vintage cars, motorcycles, and statues. Select either an English or Italian guided tour.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr.

Guided Tours

‌

Catacombs of San Gaudioso Entry Tickets & Guided Tour

Follow a licensed English or Italian-speaking guide on a captivating 1-hour tour of the Catacombs of San Gaudioso.
This guided tour will lead you through winding tunnels under the city to explore the eternal resting places of historic figures like Bishop San Gaudioso.
Marvel at the ornate tombs and gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city.
Enter San Gennaro and be amazed by the unique and macabre art collection featuring frescoes made using real bones and skulls
Upgrade your ticket to include the Artecard Campania and avail discounts, 5 free entries and so much more!

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr.

From happy customers

Top things to do in Naples

Why visit the Catacombs of Naples?

🪦Naples' largest underground burial sites

🎨Unique art and architecture

🎟️Two sites in one ticket

📑Educational value

Things to know before booking Catacombs of Naples tours

What to see inside the Catacombs of San Gaudioso?

Early Christian frescoes

17th-century skull and bones decor

Tombs of prominent figures

Ancient underground basilica

Tuff stone architecture

Symbolic Christian iconography

What to see inside the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

The Crypt of the Bishops

The Basilica of Sant'Aggripino

The Tomb of San Gennaro

Early Christian frescoes

The Baptismal Font

The Lower Catacombs

The Bishop's Chair

Plan your visit to Naples' Catacombs

How to reach

Catacombs of San Gennaro

Catacombs of San Gaudioso

Visitor tips

How to enter?

San Gaudioso Catacombs

San Gennaro Catacombs

Frequently asked questions about the Catacombs of Naples

What are the Catacombs of Naples?

What are the main catacombs to visit and where are they located?

How old are the Catacombs of Naples?

How long does a visit take?

What can I expect to see at the Catacombs of San Gennaro?

What is unique about the Catacombs of San Gaudioso?

Are the Naples Catacombs safe to visit? Are they suitable for visitors with claustrophobia?

Are the Catacombs wheelchair accessible?

Are the Catacombs connected to other underground sites in Naples?

Can I bring my kids to the Catacombs, or is it too intense?

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Is photography allowed inside the Catacombs of Naples?

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