NAPLES AREAS TO AVOID
Updated 2023“Which areas should I avoid in Naples?”, “Where should I go?”, “Where should I not go?”
Unfortunately, Naples is often skipped by tourists for its reputation as dangerous city. So let me tell you this: Naples is a beautiful city, but just like most big metropolises, it has its areas to avoid. It’s good to know these things before beginning your holiday in the Italian city, enjoy your time in safety, and prevent bad experiences.
After living years in the city, I have now a good idea of all the neighbourhoods to avoid. So I have listed these all for you in this article!
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➼ Piazza Garibaldi (Garibaldi Square)- It’s the central station area and, although it is now more controlled than in the past, it can be a bit dodgy for tourists, especially at night.
This area can be hard to avoid, particularly if you use public transports to explore the city. However, you can pay attention to several things: don’t wear valuable jewellery, keep away from those who propose card games (often faking wins), and pay attention to unregistered taxi drivers. Here you can also find people selling many fake items, so I would keep away from those.
➼ Centro Direzionale – It’s a business centre close to the central station. It isn’t really a touristy place, although the numerous skyscraping might be tempting. It’s usually considered one of the neighbourhoods to avoid, especially at night, to prevent muggings.
➼ Cavour Square (Museo) – You will probably find yourself here if you decide to visit the National Museum. Although there are no problems visiting this area in the daylight, it can become a bit dodgy at night, so you might want to avoid long stops here.
➼ Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters) – Even though this neighbourhood has long had the reputation of being dangerous, it is now considered safe and a must-see for tourists. Despite this, it might not be the best choice to walk around at night there.
➼ Forcella and Rione Sanita` – Although these two areas, situated in the city centre, are known for their organised crime, I would probably avoid going there after sunset. If you can’t avoid visiting these two neighbourhoods, then just stay a bit more alert!
Another thing I can’t help but share with you is: don’t be paranoid! Naples is not a perfect city and, as you will see for yourself, certain areas can result dirty and risky. However, it is overall a safe city and, in all the 18 years I spent living in the city, nothing wrong ever happened to me. Just use your common sense and you will be fine!
A general piece of advice is to stay away from dark and isolated areas, especially those situated far from the city centre, and to keep in mind these info when choosing your accommodation.
The public transports can be a bit risky, especially for tourists, as there are many pickpockets. If you want to travel in absolute safety, then it would be better to take the Campania Express.
Kikka
EDITOR IN CHIEF