Which catacombs to visit in Naples? Where to buy tickets? We’ll answer all your questions!
Our opinion: which catacombs to visit in Naples?
Naples is home to several impressive underground sites, but two catacombs in particular stand out: the Catacombs of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso.
| Catacombs of San Gennaro | Catacombs of San Gaudioso |
| + Larger sites Historically richer Tomb of San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples | + Plus intimmistes Religious art |
| – Busiest in high season | – Less extensive visit |
If you only have time to visit 1 site, the catacombs of San Gennaro are the most complete.
Information and tickets for the San Gennaro catacombs
Tours and tickets
Address and access
Via Capodimonte, 13, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy
– “Museo” metro stop (line 1) 20 minutes’ walk from the entrance
– Lift access: Sanità bridge (Sanità district) 10 minutes’ walk along Corso Amedeo di Savoia (dot on our map)
Tickets
Access for guided tours only.
Admission with 1-hour guided tour (compulsory): €13 per adult
Children aged 6-17 €6
Children under 5 free
Opening hours
- Daily: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Closed on Tuesdays
Can you visit the catacombs without a guided tour?
The Catacombs of San Gennaro can only be visited as part of a guided tour. However, this allows you to better understand the history of the site and discover the architectural and religious details of the catacombs.
This organization helps to protect this fragile historical heritage, while offering a richly explanatory and anecdotal experience, making the visit even more immersive and educational.
We advise you to book your visit in advance. As you know, we use the Get Your Guide platform to purchase tickets. We particularly appreciate their flexible cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel up to 24 hours before the activity and still get a full refund, with tickets at the same price as on site.
More information on the guided tour of the catacombs of San Gennaro
Catacombs of San Gennaro
Visiting the Catacombs of San Gennaro is like stepping back in time almost two millennia. Entering these vast underground galleries, one is struck by the solemn, mystical atmosphere that reigns. The silence is almost palpable, interrupted only by the whispering voices of the guide as he recounts the fascinating history of this sacred place.
The catacombs are laid out on two levels, with tombs carved out of stone and magnificent Byzantine frescoes dating back to the 5th century. The most impressive room is undoubtedly where San Gennaro, Naples’ most venerated saint, is laid to rest. His cult attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, especially during the miracle of the liquefaction of his blood.
The architecture of the catacombs is astonishing. There are wide corridors, monumental vaults and finely sculpted crypts. The chapels are decorated with religious motifs and scenes from the Bible, and the subdued lighting adds to the mystical atmosphere. Every nook and cranny tells a story, whether of the persecuted early Christians or of the Neapolitan nobles who rest here.
Catacombs of San Gaudioso
In comparison, the Catacombs of San Gaudioso offer a different, but equally fascinating atmosphere. Located beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità, they are a little less well known than those of San Gennaro, but their artistic wealth is remarkable.
These catacombs are famous for their Baroque frescoes, where sacred art takes on a much more imaginative twist. The tombs of Neapolitan nobles and aristocrats buried here are adorned with macabre decorations, with skulls and skeletons carved directly into the walls. Far from being frightening, these funereal representations illustrate the Christian belief in resurrection and life after death.
The contrast between the simplicity of early Christian tombs and the richness of Baroque tombs makes San Gaudioso a fascinating place to understand the evolution of funeral rituals in Naples. There are also mystical and religious symbols that invite reflection and contemplation.
More information on the guided tour of the San Gaudioso catacombs
Where are the San Gennaro catacombs in Naples?
The entrance to the site is on the Capodimonte hill, next to the Basilica dell’Incoronata Madre del Buon Consiglio, a miniature of St. Peter’s in Rome.
Video of the San Gennaro catacombs in Naples
This is an attraction to add to your itinerary when visiting Naples in winter.
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