Catacombs of San Gennaro: the review
The verdict. If you only go underground in Naples once, do it here. Forty-five to fifty minutes with the guide, two levels carved into the tuff, wide galleries and a route that is almost entirely flat. The rating is 4.6 out of 8,718 reviews: solid, not perfect, and the missing tenth has understandable reasons. With the same ticket, you also get access to Catacombs of San Gaudioso, and you have twelve months to do so.
What you will see, in order
The complex spans two connected levels. Above, there is the Crypt of the Bishops, an underground basilica with three naves, and mosaics, including that of San Quodvultdeus. Below, you reach the Basilica of Sant’Agrippino, with the bishop’s throne carved into the rock and the baptismal font. The frescoes range from the 2nd to the 10th century, so you pass by eight centuries of painting in half a kilometer of the route. The step-by-step description is in what you see underground.
The galleries are wide and the floor is even: you don’t crawl, you don’t turn sideways, and you don’t descend dozens of steps. Those expecting narrow tunnels are taken aback, and not always in a positive way.
What the reviews say
Karen, from the UK, found the historical narrative interesting and the guide well-prepared. Fabio Luca mentions guide Giuseppe by name, noting his competence and ability to engage the group. Helen sums it up in one line: a must-see, so much history. Megan Emily points out a practical detail that comes up often—underground, it’s naturally cooler than on the surface, all year round.
Why 4.6 and not 4.9
With nearly nine thousand ratings, nothing changes the score anymore, and the recurring criticisms are two. The first concerns large groups during peak times: those at the back hear less. The second is the duration, which some find short compared to what they expected. These are two valid objections. They are also two objections that can be avoided by booking a time slot away from the central hours.
What works well
- Wide galleries and a route that is almost entirely flat
- Guided tour only, so you understand what you're seeing
- The ticket also includes San Gaudioso, valid for twelve months
- Underground, the temperature remains constant even in August
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Things to know before
- During peak times, the group is large
- Closed on Wednesdays, and the last entry is at 17:00
- No photography inside: it is a protected site
- No entry without a booking: you cannot visit alone
- Those arriving after the tour has departed will not be admitted to the next one
The ticket office opens at 9:30, and the ticket is valid only for the date and time you purchased. Arrive a quarter of an hour early. Details on opening hours, Wednesday closures, and departures can be found in hours and tickets.
Who should skip it
Those looking for the thrill of narrow tunnels and dripping water: that is the underground of the historic centre, and I discuss it in Naples Underground. Those planning to photograph everything, since no photos are allowed inside. Those needing step-free access for a wheelchair right now, given that this passage is currently closed for maintenance. And those with less than two hours free, including the ascent and return: the required quarter-hour early arrival and travel time make a difference.
The other two tours departing from here
The second catacombCatacombs of San Gaudioso: guided tour
Highest ratingThe Sacred Mile: 3-hour guided tour
Frequently asked questions
How long does the visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro last?
The guided tour lasts between 45 and 50 minutes; the official site mentions about one hour. Add the quarter-hour early arrival required at the entrance. Real times, including travel, can be found in how long the tour lasts.
Are the catacombs wheelchair accessible?
There is a step-free entrance at Vicoletto San Gennaro dei Poveri 22, but it is currently temporarily closed for maintenance: those needing accessible access should verify before leaving. There is also a tactile route available by booking. Details in Accessibility.
Can I enter without a guide?
No. Tours are guided only, with scheduled departures, and booking is mandatory. You cannot enter alone, and those arriving after their tour has departed will not be moved to the next one.
Is the ticket also valid for the Catacombs of San Gaudioso?
Yes, and for twelve months. These are two catacombs at opposite ends of the Rione Sanità, and almost no one uses the second half of the ticket. It also works in reverse if you start from San Gaudioso.