Naples: the Upside Down tour of the underground city

Traveling through Naples often feels like stepping into a lively, chaotic painting—full of color, noise, and energy. But beneath the surface lies a hidden world that offers a starkly different, yet equally captivating, side of this Italian city. The Upside Down tour of Naples’ underground gives visitors a chance to explore the city’s subterranean layers, revealing a tapestry woven with ancient ruins, sacred sites, and stories of death and vitality.

This 3-hour private experience is a fascinating blend of archaeology, culture, and anthropology. It’s ideal for those curious about Naples’ lesser-known history and willing to navigate some stairs and dark passages. While the price (~$113) might seem steep for a short tour, the access to several underground treasures makes it a worthwhile investment for history buffs and curious explorers alike.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and stairs, so it’s best suited for visitors with a moderate level of mobility. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines history, local culture, and a touch of mystery, this experience could be just what you’re seeking.

Key Points

• Unique underground exploration blends archaeological, cultural, and anthropological sights.
• You’ll visit three distinct underground locations, each with its own story.
• The tour offers insider insights into Naples’ fascination with death and vitality.
• It’s a private guided experience lasting approximately 3 hours.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels due to stairs and walking.
• Great for those wanting a more authentic and nuanced understanding of Naples.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Naples Underground Tour

Starting Point and Atmosphere
The adventure kicks off in Piazza Dante, a lively square contrasting the city’s chaos with the calm of underground mysteries. Meeting here, you’ll find your guide holding a sign, ready to escort you into Naples’ hidden world. Expect to pass through the narrow, bustling alleys, surrounded by street musicians and vendors, giving you a taste of Naples’ vibrant street life before descending into its quieter, more contemplative underground spaces.

First Stop: Church of the Souls of Purgatorium
Your first visit is to this underground church and cemetery, linked to the cult of the poor souls—a unique religious tradition in Naples. Here, you’ll learn about this fascinating cult dedicated to the suffering souls in purgatory. The quiet, intimate atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the noisy streets above and offers insight into local spiritual practices. The underground church is accessible with an entry ticket included in the tour, allowing you to explore its intimate space and learn about its significance.

Next: San Gregorio Armeno and San Lorenzo
Just a short walk away, you’ll encounter San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its artisan shops crafting traditional clay statues used in Presepe (nativity scenes). This street is a lively open-air art gallery, buzzing with creativity and local craftsmanship. Adjacent to this, the Church of San Lorenzo reveals ruins from 2000 years ago—shoppers and locals still walk over ancient cisterns, fishery remains, and historic shops, all buried under the modern city. This highlights how Naples’ history is layered beneath daily life.

Medieval Northern Gate and Vergini Neighborhood
Moving towards the medieval city perimeter, your guide will take you to the Northern Gate, a historic entryway into the old city. Nearby, the Vergini neighborhood bursts with chaotic market life—think colorful stalls, street vendors, and lively chatter. Here, you’ll find underground Greek chamber tombs—around 2500 years old—with still-visible traces of original paint, offering a rare glimpse into ancient Greek funeral practices. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, drawing out the cultural importance of these well-preserved tombs.

Access to Three Underground Attractions
The tour’s main highlight is the opportunity to explore three underground sites:

• The Church of the Souls of Purgatorium, with its underground cemetery.
• The Neapolis Sotterrata archaeological excavations, including ancient city ruins visible beneath the modern streets.
• The Ipogeo dei Cristallini — a Hellenistic tomb with stunning preserved features and traces of color, one of Naples’ most unique archaeological finds.

Inclusions and Accessibility
Your ticket includes all three sites, simplifying logistics and ensuring you don’t miss key details. The tour involves roughly two hours of walking, with stairs involved, so a reasonable level of fitness is necessary. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide Simone, who provides clear, engaging explanations—”Simone, our guide, is very good, attentive and clear in her explanations,” mentions Jacques.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At roughly $113 for three hours, this tour provides access to multiple underground sites that are otherwise difficult to visit alone. Each location offers a different perspective—religious, archaeological, and historical—making it a comprehensive look beneath Naples’ bustling streets. The ticket prices cover entrance fees, which can add up if you visit these sites independently.

The private nature of the tour means more personalized attention, flexibility to ask questions, and a pace tailored to your interests. Plus, the inclusion of the Hellenistic tombs and ancient city ruins makes this experience especially valuable for history lovers aiming to go beyond surface-level sightseeing.

The Authentic Experience: What We Loved

Contrasting Atmospheres
The stark difference between Naples above ground and the silent, dimly lit underground spaces is striking. The guide explained how the locals’ fascination with death intertwines with their vibrant daily lives, giving you a layered understanding of Naples’ unique character.

Authentic Historical Insights
From the 2000-year-old ruins uncovered beneath San Lorenzo to the 2500-year-old Greek tombs, this tour reveals how Naples is a city built on centuries of history. These sites aren’t just relics—they’re stories etched into stone, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Intimate and Informative Guide
Jacques described Simone as “very good, attentive and clear in her explanations,” which highlights the quality of the guiding. Her knowledge and engaging storytelling bring the underground spaces to life, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Stunning Underground Views
The Hellenistic tombs show traces of color and craftsmanship that survived thousands of years, offering a glimpse of ancient artistry. Walking through these spaces, you get a rare chance to see history preserved in such detail.

Practical Tips for Your Underground Adventure

• Comfortable Shoes and Jacket

Expect uneven surfaces and some stairs. Pack a jacket as underground spaces can be cool and damp.

• Fitness Level

A moderate fitness level is recommended—if you struggle with stairs or walking long distances, consider this before booking.

• Timing

Check availability for the best starting times—most tours last around 3 hours, so plan accordingly.

• Accessibility

Since the tour involves stairs and walking, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This underground adventure appeals mainly to history aficionados, architecture lovers, and curious travelers wanting to go beneath Naples’ lively surface. It’s perfect for those interested in archaeology, religious history, or local traditions related to death and remembrance. Since it’s a private tour, it’s also great for couples or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

However, it’s less suited for families with very young children or those with mobility limitations. If you’re not comfortable with stairs or confined spaces, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating snapshot of Naples’ underground world, blending history, culture, and spirituality into a compact three-hour experience. Its inclusion of three distinct sites ensures you leave with a well-rounded understanding of the city’s complex relationship with life and death. The knowledgeable guide, Simone, enriches each stop with stories that turn ancient stones into living history.

While the physical demands mean it’s best suited for those with a reasonable mobility level, the rewards—stunning ancient tombs, atmospheric churches, and archaeological ruins—are well worth the effort. It’s a perfect choice for travelers craving a deeper, more personal connection to Naples’ hidden past.

If you’re ready for an adventure that’s both educational and atmospheric, this underground tour offers a compelling journey into the city’s heart—below the vibrant streets, where stories of mortality and vitality collide in the shadows.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with availability for different starting times.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entrance to the Church of the Souls of Purgatorium, the Neapolis Sotterrata archaeological excavations, and the Ipogeo dei Cristallini.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years old, mainly due to stairs and confined spaces.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes and a jacket are recommended, as underground spaces can be cool and uneven.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves stairs and walking, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or claustrophobia.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time and ensure availability, especially since it’s a private tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: