Access to Naples and Palermo on foot during stopovers

Hello

We’re taking an MSC cruise in May, and after the Cinque Terre, we’ll be stopping in Naples. We’d like to know if it’s possible to walk out of the port quickly and reach a nice area of Naples on foot (we’re two older people). While we’re at it, I’ll ask the same question for Palermo, since we’ll be there the next day. Thanks for your replies.

Hi there, In Naples, the port is in the city center. There are city maps available at the port station. When you leave the port, there’s a castle to your left, but I didn’t visit it. The port station also has duty-free shops. In Palermo, the port is in the city center as well. You can also grab a city map when you exit the port. Happy cruising! Mum49

Hello, Yes, the port is right in the city center. We visited the medieval castle at a very low price since seniors and children don’t pay anything. Only our son had to pay the entrance fee (Christmas 2023). The castle visit delighted our 5-year-old daughter and was interesting for adults too, thanks to the museum. After that, we took the HOP ON HOP OFF bus to tour the city, but I have to say the visit was superficial and not very interesting. I think it’s better to explore the city on your own. On a Costa cruise many years ago, we did a really nice excursion to see the city and the surrounding area. For Palermo, we also visited the city and the main monuments with a Costa excursion that ended in a private palace. Very interesting! On another cruise, we walked from the ship to the city center to wander around. Happy cruising to you!

Hi there, for Naples I’d recommend the Spanish Quarter. It’s super lively and very 'Italian.' In about 20–30 minutes on foot, you’ll find REAL Neapolitan pizzerias, Maradona Square (a true god for Naples), and more... No worries about safety in this neighborhood either.

Good evening Annette, I read your question about your stopover in Naples. Were you able to enjoy seeing some beautiful things? We’re leaving on October 3rd with MSC for our 55th wedding anniversary, and we’re having trouble organizing our excursions. The so-called "easy" ones offered by MSC are already sold out, and we’re not sure how to plan our time in Naples—and in Malta, too—to see the most interesting sights without getting too exhausted, since we’re also seniors. Could you tell me what you did? It might give us some ideas. Thanks in advance, Puce77

Hi,

In Malta, that kind of bus: https://city-sightseeing.com/en/65/malta/68/hop-on-hop-off-malta, otherwise a paid elevator and exploring the city center on foot.

In Naples, walking around the city center—there’s plenty to see... Skip Pompeii if walking is difficult...

Thanks! Have a great day!