Royal Palace





Naples' Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) sits in the heart of the city on the elegant Piazza del Plebiscito, and is one of four royal residences used by the Bourbons during their reign, together with the Capodimonte Palace, the Royal Palace of Caserta, and the Royal Palace of Portici.
The Palazzo Reale in Naples was the most central of the royal residences and was where the royal family could most often be found during the Bourbon reign from 1734 to 1861. Today, visitors can admire the royal apartments, court theater, library, and gardens overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Location: Piazza del Plebiscito
Hours: 9 am to 8 pm
Closed: Wednesday, 25 December, 1 January
Tickets: EUR 15; free for children under 18.
Visiting Naples' Royal Palace
Visiting Naples' Royal Palace
The main entrance to the Royal Palace can be accessed via Piazza del Plebiscito, the main square in Naples. The exteriors of the palace are rather plain, with just eight statues representing the rulers of Naples decorating the facade. The interiors, however, dazzle, beginning with the monumental staircase at the entrance designed by the architect Genovesi that leads to the court theater, and continuing through the Throne Room and the Royal Apartments. About 30 rooms and halls are open to the public, all ornately decorated by the prominent artists of the Bourbon reign.
After taking in the interiors, visitors can stroll through the Royal Gardens, scattered with statuary and crosscrossed with paths that offer breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius.
The National Library (Biblioteca Nazionale)
The National Library (Biblioteca Nazionale)
The city's national library occupies one wing of the palace, one of the most important in Italy and home to 2 million books and manuscripts, including works by San Tommaso d’Acquino, Giambattista Vico, Torquato Tasso, and Giacomo Leopardi. Papyrus scrolls uncovered at the Herculaneum archaeological ruins are also conserved in the library.
Entrance to the Biblioteca Nazionale is free.
The San Carlo Opera House (Teatro San Carlo)
The San Carlo Opera House (Teatro San Carlo)
Naples' historic Teatro San Carlo was once part of the Royal Palace, and there was a separate entrance leading to the Royal Box. Today, visitors can take in the opulent interiors of this landmark theater even without having to book tickets to a performance.
Guided tours are offered daily, unless rehearsals for a performance are being held.
Italian tours daily at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm
English tours daily at 11:30 am and 3:30 pm
The tour lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Ticket: €9, with discounts available for young people, students, and families.
Reservations for tours should be made by contacting visiteguidate@teatrosancarlo.it
Getting to the Royal Palace
Getting to the Royal Palace
Naples' Palazzo Reale is located on Piazza del Plebiscito in the heart of Naples.
The closest metro stop is Municipio on line 1. The palace is an easy walk from the port; the city's main train station located on Piazza Garibaldi is about a 30-minute walk away.
Dining Near the Royal Palace
Dining Near the Royal Palace
Be sure to stop either before or after visiting the Royal Palace for an authentic espresso at Caffè Gambrinus, Naples' landmark coffee house located on the square. Founded in 1860, the café has its original Art Decò interiors and works by D’Annunzio and Marinetti. Near the entrance is a large moka espresso pot used to hold register receipts for a “caffè sospeso”, or an espresso paid for in advance and "left hanging" for clients who may not be able to treat themselves to an espresso themselves.
If you are a looking for a more filling repast, head to the historic Pizzeria Brandi where the city's iconic Pizza Margherita was invented. The pizzeria is located along Via Chiaia and also makes traditional Neapolitan dishes in addition to classic pizza. Brandi takes reservations, unlike many other eateries across the city.
To sample classic regional dishes in an informal atmosphere, we suggest Trattoria San Ferdinando on nearby Via Nardones. If you instead head to the bustling Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood, stop at Trattoria Antica Capri on Via Speranzella, famous for their pasta e fagioli made with fresh seafood.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Where is the Royal Palace of Naples and what does the visit include?
The palace sits on Piazza del Plebiscito, right in Naples’ historic center. The standard route covers about 30 rooms in the Royal Apartments, the monumental staircase, the Court Theater, and the gardens overlooking the bay. The National Library occupies one wing, and the San Carlo Opera House is next door. Main entrance is on the square.
What are the must-sees: Apartments, Court Theater, and Hanging Garden?
Start at the monumental staircase by Genovesi, then move through the Throne Room and opulent apartments from the Bourbon era. The Court Theater is included on the route. The Hanging Garden offers strolls and sweeping views of the bay and Vesuvius; access may close due to weather alerts. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Is the National Library open to visitors? Do I need a ticket?
The National Library occupies one wing and houses major collections, including Herculaneum papyri. Entry is free. Check the library’s own opening hours and access rules before you go. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
Can I tour the San Carlo Opera House without a performance ticket?
Yes. Daily guided tours run unless rehearsals are underway. Italian tours: 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM; English tours: 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM. The visit lasts about 30 minutes; tickets are €9 with discounts for youths, students, and families. Book by email: visiteguidate@teatrosancarlo.it. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
How do I get there: metro, walking from the port or the station?
The closest metro stop is Municipio (Line 1). It’s a short walk from the port; from the main train station at Piazza Garibaldi, it’s about a 30-minute walk. The main entrance faces Piazza del Plebiscito. Adjust timing for traffic and weather. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
Are there buses and parking nearby?
The Acton bus stop is a short walk away; Line 151 connects from Napoli Centrale in roughly 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. For drivers, Piazza Trieste e Trento has a 24-hour underground garage (about 500 spaces) with posted hourly and daily rates. The area has limited traffic zones—confirm access rules and prices. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
How do I buy tickets and what are the rules for changes, refunds, and dates?
Purchase tickets via the Italian Museums portal/app or on site. The date on the ticket isn’t binding for “Palazzo Reale” and “Museo Pignatelli” during regular opening days/hours. Refunds are only for cancellations or technical issues; groups and special routes can change date/name up to one week prior (once only). Ticket help desk: info@museiitaliani.it, +39 06 87570182 (9:00 AM–5:30 PM). Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
Is the site accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. Architectural barriers have been removed; elevators reach the museum floor and the Hanging Garden, and the main floor has no level changes. Accessible restrooms are available. The DAI Room offers wheelchairs, tactile itineraries by reservation, and videos in Italian Sign Language. Info: +39 081 5808252 (Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–4:30 PM), pal.na.comunicazione@cultura.gov.it (CC: pal-na@cultura.gov.it). Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
Can I bring pets? Any rules to know before entering?
Pets are not allowed in the museum, courtyards, or gardens, even on a leash, except assistance dogs for visitors with disabilities. Arrive early for entry checks and check for weather-related closures of the Hanging Garden. Be mindful in the historic rooms. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit
Is the Hanging Garden open during bad weather?
During civil protection weather alerts, the garden may be partially or fully closed. A “red” alert triggers emergency closure; “orange” or “yellow” alerts may also prompt closure for safety. Notices are posted at the ticket office. Hours and prices may change; check for updates before your visit.
How long does the visit take and any practical tips?
Plan about one hour for the State Apartment, plus extra time for the Court Theater, gardens, and exhibits. Wear comfortable shoes and bring ID if you’re eligible for discounts. Check day-of notices about room or garden closures. Expect crowds in peak seasons.
Can I visit just the Hanging Garden?
The Hanging Garden is offered as a “special route” with a €2 supplement on top of the museum ticket; it may close during weather alerts. For groups and special routes, one date/name change is allowed up to one week in advance. Check the ticket desk for current details.
Where can I eat or grab coffee near the palace?
For a classic espresso, Caffè Gambrinus on the square serves historic vibes and the “caffè sospeso” tradition. For a sit-down meal, Pizzeria Brandi on Via Chiaia accepts reservations and serves Neapolitan staples; Trattoria San Ferdinando and Antica Capri offer casual local fare. Reservations are wise in peak times.
What’s the cheapest and the fastest way to get there?
For budget travel, city buses are best; you can buy tickets at newsstands, tobacco shops, and stations, with Acton the nearest stop. For speed, take Metro Line 1 to Municipio; frequent service helps you avoid traffic. Walking time from the stops is roughly 10 minutes.