How to get to the Catacombs of San Gennaro

Q: Can you walk from the historic center?

Yes, by climbing from Porta San Gennaro through the Rione Sanità: it follows the route of the Sacred Mile , all uphill in the last section.

Address: Via Capodimonte 13, 80136 Naples, just above the Rione Sanità, at the base of the Capodimonte hill. By bus, take the 650, C63, 3M, 168, 178 or 204 and get off at the Basilica Incoronata stop: from the city centre it takes about fifteen minutes. By car, take exit 5 (Capodimonte) from the Tangenziale, and there is free parking at the catacombs.

AddressVia Capodimonte 13

Bus stopBasilica Incoronata

Routes650, C63, 3M, 168, 178, 204

From the centreAbout 15 minutes

By carExit 5 Capodimonte

ParkingFree on site

By bus

This is the method I recommend for those unfamiliar with the city. Routes 650, C63, 3M, 168, 178 and 204 all stop at Basilica Incoronata, which is the correct stop: from there, the entrance is just a short walk up the same hill. From the centre, the journey takes about a quarter of an hour, traffic permitting, though in Naples traffic rarely does: allow extra time, as the booked slot will not wait.

By car

Exit 5 Capodimonte from the Tangenziale, then head down towards Via Capodimonte. There is free parking at the catacombs, which in Naples is noteworthy in itself. Those familiar with the area know that parking further down, inside the neighbourhood, is another kind of challenge.

On foot from the centre

It is possible, and it’s the route that tells the most. From the centre, walk up towards Porta San Gennaro and cross the Rione Sanità, passing under the open staircases of Palazzo dello Spagnuolo and Palazzo San Felice, until you reach the base of the Capodimonte hill. It is uphill and not an easy walk, but it is exactly the path of the Sacred Mile. I describe the neighbourhood in the Rione Sanità.

Recommendation

Arrive fifteen minutes before your slot. If you take the wrong bus or get stuck on the hill, the ticket is only valid for that time and will not be rescheduled: the opening times and rules they are strict about this.

And the second catacomb, where is it

The Catacombs of San Gaudioso are on the other side of the neighbourhood, at Via della Sanità 123, beneath the Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità: you descend into the Rione Sanità instead of staying on the upper edge. Between the two entrances, you walk, and it’s a downhill walk on the way there and uphill on the way back. The comparison lies in San Gennaro or San Gaudioso.

If you have mobility difficulties

There is a level entrance from Vicoletto San Gennaro dei Poveri 22, but it is currently temporarily closed for maintenance. Those who need easier access should check before setting off: I’ve included all the details in Accessibility.

Book before you set off

Going up to Capodimonte without a booked slot is pointless: entry is only allowed with the guided tour. Below are the available departures.

Check availability and book

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Frequently asked questions

Where exactly are the Catacombs of San Gennaro located?

At Via Capodimonte 13, in Naples, above the Rione Sanità and at the base of the Capodimonte hill. The bus stop is Basilica Incoronata. The opening times are 10:00–17:00.

Which bus goes to the catacombs?

Lines 650, C63, 3M, 168, 178, and 204, stop Basilica Incoronata: from the city center, it takes about fifteen minutes.

Is there parking?

Yes, free parking is available at the catacombs. You can reach it from exit 5 Capodimonte of the Tangenziale.

Can you walk from the historic center?

Yes, going up from Porta San Gennaro through the Rione Sanità: it’s the route of the Sacred Mile, all uphill in the final stretch.