The Christmas season is a magical time to visit Naples, a city rich in tradition, culture and Christmas spirit. During the holidays, the city is transformed into an enchanting place with bright decorations, handcrafted nativity scenes and many festive activities. Here is a guide to discover the best things to do in Naples during the Christmas season.

Thanks to the recent tourist boom experienced by the Neapolitan capital, at any time of the year the city is invaded by visitors, but Christmas is the most popular time to experience Naples and its beauty and traditions. Not surprisingly, according to estimates by the Observatory for Tourism, between 2 and 3 million visitors from all over the world are expected to arrive in the city from November 30 to January 8. Record numbers for a city that is fast becoming an international tourism capital.

If you are about to plan a trip to Naples right around the holiday season, here are some activities to experience to breathe in the magical atmosphere of the Neapolitan Christmas season.

1. Visit the street of nativity scenes 

San Gregorio Armeno is the street of nativity scenes in Naples, world-famous for its artisan stores that make creations between the traditional and the modern. During the Christmas season, the "street of shepherds" is crowded with visitors who stand open-mouthed at the detailed and often ironic works of art that fill the nativity scenes. The walk in San Gregorio Armeno, especially at Christmas time, is a unique experience - albeit a very crowded one! - that will immerse you 100% in the Neapolitan Christmas tradition. 

2. Getting lost among the illuminations of Naples

Christmas illuminations are an art that, in recent years, has regained vigor in the city. Every year, Naples, particularly in the most central areas, is filled with spectacular light installations that transform the streets into an enchanted world. Piazza Plebiscito, Via Toledo and the Vomero are among the main hubs where colorful Christmas-themed light creations can be admired.

If you are about to plan a trip to Naples right around the holiday season, here are some activities to experience to breathe in the magical atmosphere of Neapolitan Christmas.

3. Savoring Christmas sweets

Christmas in Naples is also synonymous with delicious sweets, famous the world over for their goodness and the long history to which they are linked. One cannot leave the city without first trying sfogliatelle, baba, panettone, struffoli and mostaccioli, just a few of the most beloved Christmas specialties. Many local bakeries offer sweets prepared according to old traditional recipes. A culinary experience truly not to be missed!

4. Visit Christmas markets. 

Handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations and traditional food. Immersing yourself in the Neapolitan Christmas atmosphere also means taking an exciting tour of the Christmas markets: Piazza Dante, Piazza degli Artisti, Santa Chiara are some of the beautiful locations where you can fully breathe in the Christmas tradition, savoring local foods and choosing unique gifts for your loved ones.

5. Enjoy the culinary traditions

Food is an essential part of Christmas in Naples, and the culinary traditions to be discovered are virtually limitless. Many Neapolitan families, with preparation beginning days before, try their hand at the classic Christmas Eve "dinner" based on a very rich and traditional menu. From spaghetti with clams, to salt cod, ending with the very sweet "struffoli" as dessert. Local restaurants also offer traditional Christmas specialties, so you can get a closer look at how people celebrate at the table in the city.

6. Discover Christmas art in Naples

Naples is a city rich in art and culture, and during the Christmas season, museums and galleries host Christmas-themed exhibitions and special events. Check out the city's rich cultural program to discover exhibitions and special events.

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