Naples by Motorcycle: Parking, ZTL, and Routes

Naples by Motorcycle: Parking, ZTL, and Scenic Routes

Visiting Naples by motorcycle may seem like a reckless endeavor. Chaotic traffic, narrow streets, scooters zipping from every direction. Yet, for those who love traveling on two wheels, the motorcycle is actually the ideal means to explore the city and its surroundings. More agile than a car, more flexible than public transport, and with a huge advantage: in Naples, many ZTLsallow access to motorcycles. During yourvacation in Naples, riding a motorcycle allows you to reach otherwise inaccessible corners and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenic routes in the world. This guide explains everything: where you can enter, where to park, and which roads to take to have the perfect two-wheeled experience.

ZTL in Naples: The Great Opportunity for Motorcyclists

The first fear of those arriving in Naples by car is the ZTL. For those arriving by motorcycle, the situation is much more favorable.

Where Motorcycles Can Enter (And Where They Can't)

The golden rule:in most ZTLs in the historic center, motorcycles and scooters can circulate freely .

Here are the main areas in detail:

What the City of Naples Says

According to the official website of the City of Naples, "the transit of motorcycles and mopeds is allowed only through the access points of the Historic Center". For other ZTLs like Mezzocannone and Piazza del Gesù, access is also prohibited for motorcycles.

In summary:you can freely circulate in the heart of the historic center (via Duomo, via dei Tribunali, Spaccanapoli), but you must avoid the area of Piazza del Gesù and via Mezzocannone, where access is reserved for authorized vehicles only.

Attention to Access Points with Extended Hours

The access point ofvia del Soleit deserves special attention. While other access points in the historic center close at 5:00 PM, this one remains active until late at night: from Monday to Thursday until 10:00 PM, and on weekends and holidays until2:00 AM. It is the access point that many drivers underestimate, thinking that "the ZTL is off in the evening". However, motorcycles are allowed access at any time.

Where to Park Your Motorcycle in Naples: Secured Garages and Low-Cost Solutions

Parking a motorcycle in Naples is definitely easier than parking a car. You can squeeze into tight spaces, use blue lines (by paying), and in many areas, even park on wide sidewalks (being careful not to obstruct pedestrians). However, for a peaceful night's sleep, it's better to use a secured garage.

Secured Parking for Motorcycles

• Garage Borsa Parking(Piazza Municipio/Borsa area): secured garage in the center, ideal for those who need to take the ferry or visit the Maschio Angioino. Open 24/7, it offers spaces for motorcycles and cars.

• Naples Parking - Shuttle Station(Piazza Giuseppe di Vittorio, 6): open-air secured parking open 24 hours a day, with a shuttle service to the Central Station in 10 minutes. Ideal if you arrive by motorcycle and want to leave it before taking a train.

• Parking Brin(Fuorigrotta): large secured parking at €5 per day, attached to metro line 2. Perfect if you want to leave your motorcycle in the suburbs and use public transport to the center.

Free Street Parking

In many areas of Naples, you can park your motorcycle for free on the street, as long as you do not create an obstruction. The best areas:

• Alongvia Caracciolo(seafront): there are spaces dedicated to two wheels

• Vomero(near Piazza Vanvitelli): wide streets, motorcycle parking facilitated

• Chiaia(near Villa Comunale): beware of blue lines (paid)

What to Avoid

• Never park in ZTL access points (even if the motorcycle can enter, prohibited parking is fined)

• Do not leave your helmet attached to the motorcycle: take it with you or store it in the top case

• Beware of towing areas (marked by yellow signs)

Motorcycle Routes from Naples: The Must-Do Rides

The real advantage of having a motorcycle during yourvacation in Naplesis the ability to explore the surroundings. Here are the most beautiful routes.

1. The Amalfi Coast Loop: Every Biker's Dream

TheSS163 Amalfitanais one of the most spectacular roads in the world. Riding it is a pure experience: hairpin turns along the cliff, breathtaking views of the sea, colorful villages perched.

Recommended route (full day trip):

• Departure from Naples

• Naples → A3 motorway (motorcycle toll about €2.10) to Castellammare di Stabia

• Castellammare → Vico Equense → Sorrento (SS145, Sorrento coast)

• Sorrento → Positano → Amalfi → Ravello (SS163, the heart of the Coast)

• Return via A3 motorway from Vietri sul Mare

Total distance:about 160 km 

Travel time:7-8 hours (with stops)

Tips:

• Best time:May, June, and September. Avoid August (too much traffic and tourist buses) 

• The hairpin turns are narrow and buses take up the entire lane: drive carefully

• Stop in Positano for a coffee with a view, in Amalfi for a seafood lunch

2. Vesuvius and National Park: The Smoking Volcano

A shorter but intense itinerary. The road that leads up to Vesuvius (from the Ercolano junction) has two series of tight hairpin turns and offers incredible views of the gulf.

Route:

• Naples → Ercolano (20 minutes)

• Ercolano → Vesuvius (scenic road, 20 minutes of curves)

• Parking is at 1000 meters altitude; from there, it's a 20-minute walk to the crater (281 meters of elevation gain) 

Tip:The ascent to the crater is on foot, so wear closed shoes. Parking is paid and often crowded with souvenir stalls.

3. The Gulf of Pozzuoli: The "Naples Trip" on Two Wheels

A shorter itinerary (about 30 km), perfect for an afternoon.

Route:

• Naples → Posillipo → Marechiaro

• Marechiaro → Coroglio → Bagnoli

• Bagnoli → Pozzuoli (Flavian Amphitheater, the third largest Roman amphitheater after the Colosseum and Capua)

• Pozzuoli → Lake Avernus (mythological entrance to the underworld)

• Aragonese Castle of Baia

Why do it:Volcanic landscapes, millennia of history, and the opportunity to swim at Gaiola (protected marine area).

4. The Ring of the Two Gulfs: Naples - Sorrento - Vesuvius - Naples

A circular route of about 165 km that touches the best of Campania.

Stages:

1. Departure from Naples, view of Vesuvius from the waterfront

2. Vesuvius (ascent and stop)

3. Descent towards the Sorrento Peninsula

4. Sorrento (stop for lunch)

5. Return via highway (toll about €2.10) or via state road with a visit to Pompeii 

Motorcycle and Scooter Rental in Naples

If you arrive by plane or train and still want to experience Naples on two wheels, you can rent a scooter or a motorcycle.

Where to rent:

• Gallo Sprint - Rent-a-Scooter(near the port of Naples): excellent reviews, offers scooters and motorcycles, and can deliver the vehicle directly to your hotel 

• Several agencies in the Central Station area and along the waterfront

Indicative prices:

• 50cc scooter: €25-35/day

• 125cc-300cc scooter: €40-60/day

• Motorcycles over 500cc: €80-120/day

Required documents:license A or A2 (for motorcycles), license B (for 125cc scooters only if obtained before 1986 or with an upgrade).

Driving Tips for Naples and Surroundings

• Traffic is a living organism:Neapolitans drive with "imagination". Don't get angry, adapt. Right of way is fluid, intersections are negotiated with a glance.

• Use your position:on a motorcycle you are more visible. Always keep your mirrors well adjusted.

• Watch out for cobblestones:in the historic center the streets are cobbled and slippery, especially when wet.

• Wild parking (controlled):in many squares, motorcyclists park in groups. Follow them: where there are other bikes, you can usually park.

• Helmets and safety:a helmet is mandatory. In summer, bring a water bottle: stationary traffic in the sun can get hot.

FAQ

Can motorcycles enter the ZTL in Naples?

Yes, in most ZTLs in the historic center (via Duomo, via Miroballo, via Santa Sofia, via del Sole entrance) motorcycles and mopeds can circulate freely. The Mezzocannone area and Piazza del Gesù are excluded.

What are the hours for the ZTL via del Sole?

From Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Friday, Saturday, Sunday, holidays and pre-holidays: 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM the following day.

Where can I park my motorcycle in downtown Naples?

In guarded garages like Garage Borsa Parking (Municipio area) or Napoli Parking - Shuttle Station. Alternatively, on the street in permitted areas (lungomare, Vomero, Chiaia).

What is the most beautiful motorcycle route from Naples?

The Amalfi Coast (SS163 from Sorrento to Amalfi) is universally recognized as one of the most spectacular roads in the world for motorcyclists.

How much is the highway toll for motorcycles in Naples?

On the A3 Naples-Salerno, the toll for a motorcycle is about €2.10-€2.30 in 2025/2026.

Can I rent a scooter in Naples without an A license?

With a B license, you can ride a 125cc scooter only if you obtained it before 1986 (in Italy). Otherwise, you need an A1 or A2 license. Tourists with a EU license can ride 125cc with a B license if they are of legal age (check with the rental agency).

What is the best time to ride a motorcycle in Naples?

May, June, and September: mild weather, less traffic compared to August, long days.

The best option for those who want freedom

Riding a motorcycle in Naples is the best option for those who want freedom, agility, and the ability to explore both the historic center and the magnificent surroundings. The main advantage is access to most ZTLs, a privilege that cars do not have. With a secure parking spot for the night and a bit of attention to the Neapolitan traffic, the motorcycle becomes the perfect means for yourvacation in Naples. And when you want to get away from the city, you will have at your fingertips some of the most beautiful routes in the world: the Amalfi Coast, Mount Vesuvius, the Gulf of Pozzuoli. Saddle up, put on your helmet, and set off to discover Naples on two wheels.

For a complete planning of your trip – including accommodations, walking itineraries, and transportation tips – check the complete guide to organizing your vacation in Naples independently and without stress.

Review date:April 19, 2026