Transport in Naples: Metro, Funiculars, and Buses

Public Transport in Naples: Metro, Funiculars, and Buses for Easy Movement

Getting around Naples may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the public transport system, you'll find it surprisingly efficient for reaching key points in the city. During yourvacation in Naples, knowing the right means will save you time, money, and effort. This guide explains everything you need to know about the metro, funiculars, buses, trams, and tickets, with practical tips to avoid the most common mistakes.

Overview of the Neapolitan Transport System

Public transport in Naples is mainly managed by ANM (Azienda Napoletana Mobilità) and EAV (Ente Autonomo Volturno) for suburban lines and the Circumvesuviana. Here are the available means:

Metro Line 1 (Yellow): The Backbone of the City

Line 1 is the most useful subway for tourists. It connects the hilly area (Vomero) with the historic center and, from November 2025, with Capodichino Airport.

Main Stations of Line 1

Line 1 Timetable

• First ride:6:00

• Last ride:23:30 (Sunday and holidays 22:30)

• Frequency:every 8-12 minutes (weekday), every 15-20 minutes (evening and holidays)

Must-See Art Stations

Line 1 of Naples is famous for itsart stations(stops designed by star architects):

• Toledo:called “the most beautiful station in the world” with its blue and white wave mosaic.

• Università:Roman archaeological remains on display.

• Museo:contemporary art.

• Garibaldi:futuristic structure by Dominique Perrault.

Metro Line 2 (Blue): East-West Connection

Line 2 is operated by Trenitalia (so ANM tickets are not valid, a regional Trenitalia ticket is required). It connects Pozzuoli to Naples San Giovanni-Barra, passing through useful stations:

• Pozzuoli:for Lake Averno and Rione Terra.

• Campi Flegrei:Maradona Stadium, Mostra d’Oltremare.

• Cavour:near the Archaeological Museum.

• Garibaldi:central station.

• Mergellina:seafront, marina.

• San Giovanni-Barra:eastern suburbs.

Timetable and tickets for Line 2

• Ticket:regional Trenitalia (1.50€ for the Naples-Pozzuoli route, valid for 4 hours)

• Frequency:every 15-20 minutes

• First train:5:30 – Last train: 22:30

Funiculars: The Fastest Way to Get to Vomero

Naples has three funiculars that connect the lower center (Chiaia, Via Toledo) with the hilly district of Vomero. They are fast, scenic, and not crowded outside of peak hours.

Central Funicular

• Departure at the bottom:Via Toledo, corner of Piazza Dante

• Arrival at the top:Via Cimarosa (Vomero)

• Duration:5 minutes

• Frequency:every 10 minutes

Chiaia Funicular

• Departure at the bottom:Via Chiaia (Piazza dei Martiri)

• Arrival at the top:Via Cimarosa (Vomero, near the Central)

• Duration:6 minutes

• Frequency:every 10 minutes

Mergellina Funicular

• Departure at the bottom:Via Mergellina (seafront)

• Arrival at the top:Via Manzoni (high Posillipo)

• Duration:7 minutes

• Frequency:every 15 minutes

Common funicular schedules

• First ride:7:00

• Last ride:22:00

• Ticket:integrated ANM (1.30€ valid for 90 minutes)

Buses and Trams: When to Use Them (and When to Avoid Them)

ANM Buses

Buses in Naples are notoriously slow, crowded, and subject to delays due to traffic. Use them only if you have no alternatives or if you need to reach areas not served by metro or funiculars.

Useful lines for tourists:

• R2:Garibaldi station – via Toledo – Mergellina

• C16:Chiaia – Vomero (alternative to the funiculars)

• 140:Mergellina – Posillipo (panoramic view)

• Alibus (special):airport – Garibaldi station – port (5€, not included in the regular ticket)

Bus schedules:6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (after 9:00 PM few night lines N1, N2, N3)

Tram

The trams (lines 1, 2, 4) run along the waterfront and the eastern area. They are more reliable than buses because they have dedicated lanes in some sections. Useful for going from Mergellina to San Giovanni.

Tickets and Fares: Everything You Need to Know

Single ticket (Unico Campania)

• Cost:€1.30

• Duration:90 minutes from validation

• Validity:on all ANM vehicles (buses, trams, metro line 1, funiculars) and on Circumvesuviana only for urban routes in Naples

• Purchase:tobacconists, newsstands, automatic ticket machines in the metro

Daily ticket

• Cost:€4.50

• Duration:24 hours from the first validation

• Validity:unlimited on all ANM vehicles

• Note:does not include Alibus (airport) or regional trains

Weekly ticket

• Cost:€12.50

• Duration:7 consecutive days

• Validity:unlimited on all ANM vehicles

Campania Arte Card (Naples Card)

• Cost:€32 (3 days) / €42 (7 days)

• Includes:unlimited ANM transport + first museum free and discounts on others

• Is it worth it?Yes, if you visit at least 3 museums in 3 days

Where to buy

• AppUnico Campania(recommended: digital purchases, validate with QR)

• Tobacconists (look for the blue “T”)

• Newsstands

• Automatic ticket machines in the subway (accept cards)

How to validate the ticket

• Metro and funiculars:at the entrance of the turnstiles (insert or hold the ticket close)

• Buses and trams:inside the vehicle (specific yellow machine).Mandatory– fine €50-100 if you do not validate.

How to Get from the Airport to the Center

From November 2025, Capodichino airport will be directly connected by theLine 1(stop “Airport”). Ticket €1.30. Alternatively:

• Alibus:dedicated shuttle, €5, stops at Garibaldi station and Molo Beverello (port). Every 20 minutes.

• Taxi:fixed rate €19 (day) or €23 (night/holidays) to any address in the historic center.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not validating the ticket:heavy fine, even if you just bought the ticket.

• Using the ANM ticket on Line 2:it's not valid, a separate Trenitalia ticket is required.

• Taking the bus during rush hours (8:30-9:30 and 17:30-19:00):it's a traumatic experience.

• Missing the last subway:after 11:30 PM only taxis or rare night buses.

• Buying tickets from illegal sellers:they are fake or already used.

Example Itineraries with Public Transport

From Piazza Garibaldi to Piazza del Plebiscito

• Metro:Line 1 from Garibaldi to Toledo (5 minutes), then 10 minutes on foot.

From Mergellina to the Archaeological Museum

• Metro Line 2from Mergellina to Cavour (10 minutes), then 5 minutes on foot.

From the historic center to Vomero

• Central Funicularfrom via Toledo (Piazza Dante) to via Cimarosa (5 minutes).

From the airport to Chiaia

• Metro Line 1from Airport to Toledo (20 minutes), then 10 minutes on foot or bus C16.

Useful Apps for Getting Around

• Unico Campania:ticket purchase, real-time schedules.

• Moovit:route planning with all means.

• Google Maps:reliable for buses and metro (real-time schedules).

• ANM Napoli:official, for reports and diversions.

FAQ

What is the most convenient ticket for 3 days in Naples?

The weekly ticket for €12.50 if you use public transport at least 2-3 times a day. The Napoli Card for €32 is only worth it if you also visit museums.

Is the subway in Naples safe at night?

Yes, but the last train is at 11:30 PM. After that time, take a taxi.

Can I use the same ticket for the bus and subway?

Yes, the €1.30 ticket is valid for 90 minutes on all ANM services (buses, trams, metro line 1, funiculars). It is not valid on Trenitalia line 2.

How do I get to Pompeii from Naples using public transport?

Circumvesuviana (Naples-Sorrento line) from Napoli Garibaldi, stop at Pompei Scavi. Ticket €3.20 one way, 35 minutes.

Are the funiculars included in the ANM ticket?

Yes, the €1.30 ticket is also valid for all three funiculars.

Are the night buses in Naples reliable?

Not really. They have reduced frequency (every 40-60 minutes) and are often late. Better to take a taxi or walk in the city center.

Can I bring large luggage on the subway?

Yes, there are no restrictions. Avoid peak hours to not obstruct.

Explore the city using public transport

Learning to use public transport in Naples is the secret to experiencing the city like a local and saving time and money during yourvacation in Naples. The metro line 1 and the funiculars are the best options: fast, frequent, and with unique art stations. Buses should be used sparingly, trams only along the waterfront. Always remember to validate your ticket and avoid peak hours. With a little practice, you'll move easily between the historic center, Vomero, waterfront, and airport, leaving the car (and stress) at home.

To explore all aspects of your trip – neighborhoods, costs, itineraries, and attractions – consult the complete guide to best organize your experience in Naples.

Review date:April 19, 2026