Whether you're starting your cruise in Naples or it's listed on your itinerary of destinations, there's plenty to do regardless of what time of year you visit.
January - March
Average temperature: 10°C
January is the coldest month in Naples but - being on the Mediterranean - most days you'll be warm enough with just a coat once you start walking around. Don't let the fewer hours of sunshine deter you as you'll find prices are cheaper than later in the year and even the most popular tourist attractions are free of crowds.
The relatively mild weather makes it a great time to tick off the main tourist attractions in Naples. Herculaneum, Pompeii and the main piazzas are a must if it's your first time, while you'll find fantastic restaurants offering a plethora of pizza, pasta and the best coffee in the world if you need to take a break from the sightseeing. To properly explore Pompei, MSC offers a shore excursion during a Mediterranean cruise.
April - June
Average temperature: 17°C
As temperatures begin to rise, so does the number of people visiting Naples but you're still free of peak season until the end of July. This means it's still a wonderful time to do the main sights without having to spend half your time in queues. Take a boat to the stunning island of Capri before the flocks of tourists descend or make the most of Naples's many museums.
Naples is one of the oldest Italian cities and - as such - has plenty of history to share. The National Archeological Museum of Naples is widely regarded as the most important archeological museum in the entire country. With a variety of ancient Greek, Roman and Renaissance works of art, it's a fantastic place to get an understanding of Naples' history, as well as seeing some artefacts recovered from Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD.
July - September
Average temperature: 24°C
July and August are the sunniest and warmest months in Naples, respectively, meaning the city becomes a hive of activity and the top tourist attractions swell with crowds. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle but love making the most of the warmer weather found at this time of year, why not take the opportunity to explore the Amalfi coast?
There are a variety of walks and hikes mapped out for you to make the most of. At this time of year there will be plenty of people around to prevent you getting lost but the trails are so expansive that you shouldn't find the crowds too overwhelming.
October - December
Average temperature: 14°C
November is, on average, the wettest month in Naples but that doesn't stop this Italian city from being an incredibly magic place to be in the run up to Christmas. Pack your walking shoes as one of the best things you can do in Naples over the festive period is to track down the various nativity and Christmas displays.
However, even if you arrive too early to experience the festivities, there's still plenty to do. Exploring the many indoor attractions in Naples is a great way to spend your time, while staying dry. If you haven't already, make the most of the variety of museums in this unique Italian city. The National Archeological Museum of Naples, Cappella Sansevero and Museo di Capodimonte, are particular must-sees and remain open year-round, though different opening times may be in force.
Explore Naples on a Mediterranean cruise on MSC Bellissima!