Castel Sant'Elmo: Naples' Hilltop Fortress
Explore Naples' iconic hilltop fortress: history, art, and breathtaking panoramic views await at Castel Sant'Elmo.
Castel Sant'Elmo, a 14th-century star-shaped fortress atop Vomero Hill, offers a blend of history, architecture, and panoramic views of Naples, the bay, and Mount Vesuvius. Once a church, royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, it now houses a museum and event spaces.
A brief summary to Castel Sant'Elmo
- Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, 80129, IT
- +390812294404
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon to witness magical sunsets over the Bay of Naples from the castle's vantage point.
- Explore the network of underground tunnels and passages that once served as a vital part of the castle's defense system.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Certosa di San Martino, a former monastery housing a museum of Neapolitan art and history.
- Check the castle's event schedule for temporary exhibitions, performances, and concerts.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the city center, the easiest way to reach Castel Sant'Elmo is by using the Funicolare di Montesanto. Take the metro to Montesanto station, then board the funicular. Alight at the Morghen stop, which is a 5-minute walk from the castle. A single funicular ticket costs €1.10.
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Public Transport
Alternatively, take Metro Line 1 to Vanvitelli station. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute uphill walk to Castel Sant'Elmo. Metro tickets cost between €1-€4.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Naples. A taxi ride from the port to Castel Sant'Elmo typically costs between €21-€25 and takes around 12 minutes.
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