Christmas in Naples 2025: Festive Events & Travel Guide

Why visit Naples during Christmas

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Wander the Presepi District

Walk through Via San Gregorio Armeno, famed worldwide for its artisan nativity workshops, colorful figurines, and festive craft-lined alleys.

Iconic Christmas markets

Naples’ holiday markets brim with regional treats, handmade ornaments, and lively street vendors, perfect for soaking in local Christmas charm.

Festive food & traditions

Taste the season with Neapolitan classics like struffoli, roccocò, and seafood feasts that define the city’s cherished Christmas Eve dinner.

Historic churches glowing with décor

Step inside Naples Cathedral and Santa Chiara, where centuries-old traditions, creches, and candle-lit masses bring the holiday spirit to life.

Mild Mediterranean winter

Enjoy Christmas magic without extreme cold, Naples offers crisp air, clear views, and pleasant stroll-friendly weather in December.

Local celebrations & street life

The city feels alive with music, processions, puppet theatre, and spontaneous celebrations that fill piazzas every evening.

Your perfect Christmas itinerary

24th December – Christmas Eve

Morning: Start your day in the heart of the historic center. Wander through Via San Gregorio Armeno to see artisans crafting presepi and seasonal figurines. Then step into Naples Cathedral to admire its festive décor and take a moment of quiet reflection.

Afternoon: Head up to Certosa di San Martino for sweeping views of the city dressed in December light. Explore its celebrated nativity collections—some of the most cherished in Italy. Stop for a warm cuoppo or sfogliatella at a nearby café.

Evening: Spend Christmas Eve Neapolitan-style: seafood feasts, lively piazzas, and open-air celebrations. Book a holiday dinner in the Spaccanapoli area or stroll the waterfront at Lungomare. If you wish, attend Midnight Mass at the Cathedral for an authentic cultural touch.

Recommended tickets:

Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro Guided Tour

Romantic Dinner on the Rooftop Panoramic Terrace in Naples

25th December – Christmas Day

Morning: Begin with a relaxed seaside walk along the Lungomare as the sun rises behind Capri. Many cafés stay open, offering pastries like struffoli and cassatine. Take in the views around Castel dell’Ovo

Afternoon: Explore Piazza Plebiscito, which often hosts festive displays and activities. Spend the afternoon outdoors, wandering down Spaccanapoli, slipping into the golden light of Galleria Umberto I, pausing at the festive displays around Piazza del Gesù Nuovo.

Evening: End the day with a Christmas concert at Teatro di San Carlo or a quiet dinner in the Spanish Quarter. Try traditional dishes like pasta al forno or delizia al limone for a comforting holiday finale.

Recommended tickets:

Romantic Dinner on the Rooftop Panoramic Terrace in Naples

Combo (Save 5%): Naples Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + National Archaeological Museum Tickets

Naples Walking Tour with Sansevero Chapel Museum & Veiled Christ Entry Tickets

Know before you go

Pausilypon Archaeological Park ruins on a rocky island in Naples, Italy.

December weather: Mild but chilly (8–14°C) with cool coastal winds. Pack layers, a warm scarf, and comfy walking shoes.
Crowds: Expect a surge from 23–26 December, especially near Via San Gregorio Armeno and Piazza del Gesù Nuovo. Arrive early and factor in slower movement through narrow lanes.
Payments: Christmas markets and small vendors often prefer cash. Carry small notes and coins, as many stalls don’t accept cards.
Church etiquette: Dress modestly for Mass or concerts. Keep a shawl or light jacket to cover shoulders.
Dining: Restaurants book out fast for Christmas Eve and Day. Reserve early, especially around Spaccanapoli, Chiaia, and the Lungomare.
Transport: Buses, funiculars, and the metro run reduced schedules on 24–25 December. Plan ahead, and walk between central areas when you can.

Frequently asked questions about spending Christmas in Naples

Is Naples a good place to visit during Christmas?

Yes. Naples is lively and atmospheric with festive lights, nativity displays, concerts, and bustling food spots. The mild winter weather also makes it comfortable to explore on foot.

Are Christmas markets open on December 25th?

Some markets do open on Christmas Day, though many operate with reduced hours. The busiest, most vibrant market days are typically 23–24 December and 26 December.

Is everything closed on Christmas Day?

Many major attractions close or run shorter hours, but churches, some markets, bakeries, and seafront cafés usually stay open. You’ll still find plenty of places to wander and eat.

What should I wear during Christmas in Naples?

Pack warm layers, a cozy jacket, and comfy walking shoes. Evenings, especially near the sea, can feel noticeably cooler.

Can I attend Christmas Mass in Naples?

Yes. The Naples Cathedral and most local churches hold Christmas services, including Midnight Mass on December 24th. Arrive early, as popular churches fill up quickly.

Is Naples crowded at Christmas?

Yes, especially in the historic center and around Via San Gregorio Armeno. Crowds peak in the days leading up to Christmas.

Is it safe to walk around at night during the holidays?

Generally yes, especially in well-lit, central areas like Via Toledo, Piazza Plebiscito, and along the waterfront. As always, stay aware of your surroundings in busy spots.

24th December – Christmas Eve

Recommended tickets:

Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro Guided Tour

Romantic Dinner on the Rooftop Panoramic Terrace in Naples

25th December – Christmas Day

Recommended tickets:

Romantic Dinner on the Rooftop Panoramic Terrace in Naples

Combo (Save 5%): Naples Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + National Archaeological Museum Tickets

Naples Walking Tour with Sansevero Chapel Museum & Veiled Christ Entry Tickets

December weather: Mild but chilly (8–14°C) with cool coastal winds. Pack layers, a warm scarf, and comfy walking shoes.
Crowds: Expect a surge from 23–26 December, especially near Via San Gregorio Armeno and Piazza del Gesù Nuovo. Arrive early and factor in slower movement through narrow lanes.
Payments: Christmas markets and small vendors often prefer cash. Carry small notes and coins, as many stalls don’t accept cards.
Church etiquette: Dress modestly for Mass or concerts. Keep a shawl or light jacket to cover shoulders.
Dining: Restaurants book out fast for Christmas Eve and Day. Reserve early, especially around Spaccanapoli, Chiaia, and the Lungomare.
Transport: Buses, funiculars, and the metro run reduced schedules on 24–25 December. Plan ahead, and walk between central areas when you can.