Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Jade and Deeshen
Naples Italy is a fantastic city for shopping, offering a wide range of artisan-crafted goods and gourmet treats!
This seaside metropolis has a rich tradition of artisanal craftsmanship and traditional shops where you can find Naples Italy souvenirs and gifts that are not only one-of-a-kind treasures, but also affordable!
Wondering what to buy in Naples? In this article, we’ll share the best things to buy in Naples Italy, where to buy them. Be sure to read til the end where we share a list of shopping streets that you’ll find gifts for the whole family!
Visiting Italy? Download these apps for Italy before your trip!
You may be interested in visiting our favorite italian cities, and reading our guides on two days in Milan Italy, or Florence in a day, or one day in Venice. Now, on to the best Naples Italy souvenirs!
But first, here are the best guided tour deals for Naples: (yes, you should buy in advance for the best experience!)
- ⭐Best deal for Naples Full-Day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Tour – Visit an incredible volcano and Pompeii’s famous archeological site. (24 hour free cancellation). We recommend this one!
- ⭐Best deal for Naples Underground Guided Tour – Fascinating tour underneath the city of Naples through 2,400 years of history, and visit Greek-Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Theater.
- ⭐Best deal for Naples: Boat Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello – Admire the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Coast on a boat trip, se the Baths of Queen Giovanna, and admire the view of Mount Vesuvius.
What to buy in Naples
1. Ceramics
Naples and the surrounding region of Campania are renowned for their ceramic production. You can find beautiful handpainted majolica ceramics, porcelain from Capodimonte, and rustic majolica from Vietri Sul Mare.
For ages, Italians have used magnificent pottery to display their artistic side. From plates and bowls to pitchers and mugs, vases, wall art – home ceramics are available in every color of the rainbow.
Each region of Italy has their own distinctive style of pottery. I tend to favor the brightly colored pottery.
Loved by: Art enthusiasts, home decorators, anyone who appreciates beautiful and functional kitchenware
Where to buy: Throughout Naples, but especially popular in Vietri sul Mare shopping street (known for rustic majolica), Vomero district, and Capodimonte (known for elegant porcelain). Explore the local shops like Anime Di Terracotta or browse online stores like Vietri sul Mare ceramics or Capodimonte porcelain.
2. Coral and Cameos
The Bay of Naples is famous for coral, mother-of-pearl, and cameo jewelry. Cameos are intricate designs carved from shells, while coral is used to make various jewelry items and decorative pieces.
Loved by: Jewelry collectors, fashion lovers, and those seeking unique keepsakes
Where to buy: Borgo Orefici, a historic district near the Naples waterfront. Explore the neighborhood’s many goldsmiths or visit Torre del Greco, a coastal town known for coral production.
If you love the coast of Italy, also check out our Cinque Terre 2 day itinerary, and capture photos at the best Cinque Terre photo spots.
3. Silk Neck Ties
Handmade silk ties from Naples are a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship. You can find a vast selection of high-end ties in pure silk, with classic and trendy colors and prints.
Marinella Naples is a renowned Neapolitan shirtmaker also offers a beautiful selection of handmade silk ties, and have a flagship store in Naples.
Loved by: Men who appreciate timeless fashion and quality craftsmanship, business professionals
Where to buy: High-end boutiques like the historic Marinella boutique or Giorgio – Napoli Cravatte carry a vast selection of silk ties.
Head towards the vibrant Via Toledo in Naples’ historic center to look for more options. This area is known for its high-end clothing stores, tailors, and even small artisanal shops. Keep an eye out for shops that display ties and look for signage mentioning “seta” (silk), “cravatte” (tie), or “artigianale” (handmade).
4. Italian Good Luck Horns (Cornicello)
Lucky Horns, Cornicello, are traditional Neapolitan amulets believed to ward off the “evil eye” and bring good luck. These whimsical charms come in various sizes and designs, making them perfect as small gifts or personal keepsakes.
The Italian Talisman amulet is widely recognized as a lucky charm, symbol of good luck, protection, and prosperity, and it is often given as a gift to newborns. Cornicello charms are often made of gold, silver, plastic, bone, terracotta, or red coral.
Loved by: Those who appreciate Neapolitan traditions and a touch of whimsy
Where to buy: Check out Bella Bri L’ arte Della Resina jewelery and souvenir shops throughout Naples
5. Nativity Scenes
The handmade nativity scene is a traditional Neapolitan craft dating back to the 1700s. These intricate constructions often include figurines of the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, and even contemporary celebrities.
Naples is famous for its elaborate nativity scenes. These can be large or small, and they often include figures and scenes from everyday Neapolitan life. You can find presepe all year round, but they are especially popular around Christmas.
Loved by: Christmas lovers, art collectors
Where to buy: The best place to buy nativity scene crafts is Via San Gregorio Armeno, also known as “Christmas Alley,” located in the Centro Storico shopping street. This narrow lane is filled with shops selling hundreds of handcrafted nativity scenes year-round. Ask for “presepe” (nativity scene).
6. Christmas Ornaments
In addition to nativity scenes, Via San Gregorio Armeno offers a wide variety of handmade Christmas ornaments, including paper snowflakes, tin Santas, porcelain angels, and much more!
Loved by: Holiday decorators, collectors of festive items
Where to buy: For all Christmas ornaments and decor, the best place to buy them will be Via San Gregorio Armeno, also known as “Christmas Alley”. This is such a magical place that you’ll truly adore!
7. A Neapolitan Coffee Maker (and Coffee!)
The traditional Neapolitan coffee pot, or “la cuccumella,” is a must-have for coffee lovers. Pair it with a package of ground Neapolitan espresso beans, such as Passalacqua, to recreate the perfect espresso at home.
The invention of the the Neapolitan coffee pot dates back to the early 1800s in France, when percolators were patented. When the design found its way to Naples, the native craftsmen customized it, creating their own original version made with copper or tin. It quickly expanded throughout the city and, at one point became synonymous with coffee culture in the city of Naples.
Loved by: Coffee lovers who love trying different coffee around the world, or who want to recreate the perfect Neapolitan espresso at home
Where to buy: Cuccumella pots can be found in kitchenware shops throughout Naples. Pick up a bag of ground Neapolitan espresso beans at at Diaz Microtorrefazione, a local naples coffee bars, or local grocery stores like Carrefour Super Market.
8. Masquerade Masks
Masquerade masks are a traditional Italian accessory. You can find full or half masks made from paper-mâché or leather in various designs.
Loved by: Party-goers, theater lovers
Where to buy: Souvenir, theater supply stores and costume shops throughout Naples such as Brancato Snc di Brancato Margherita e Lucia (Via Lavinaio) and La Maschera È Libertà.
9. Music Boxes
Neapolitan music boxes are such a charming souvenir and people adore these unique gifts! They are made from materials like wood, porcelain, paper, or terracotta, and come in a variety of options. They often feature plain music boxes, or intricate ones incorporated into themed music boxes like a Christmas theme.
Loved by: Music lovers, collectors of decorative items
Where to buy: Look for shops specializing in toys or traditional crafts along Via San Biagio dei Librai, Via San Gregorio Armeno (the historic center) and the Spaccanapoli area. These areas often have shops selling souvenirs and trinkets.
10. Limoncello
Limoncello is a popular Italian liqueur made from heirloom lemons in southern Italy, particularly in the Gulf of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily. It is the second most popular liqueur in Italy, and it is often served cold as an after-dinner digestif.
Loved by: Liqueur aficionados, cocktail lovers
Where to buy: Check out limoncello and wine shops like Limonè, Rosso Di Vino, and Salumeria Ruocco. You can find the best limoncello in wine shops or gourmet food stores in Naples, Amalfi Coast, or Capri, a small island in the Gulf of Naples.
11. Pulcinella Products
Pulcinella, a beloved character from Naples, rose to fame in the world of Commedia dell’Arte, a form of improvisational comedy that thrived in Italy for centuries. This wily fellow, clad in white with a signature black mask and a prominent nose, embodied the Neapolitan spirit. Despite his mischievous and often coarse behavior, Pulcinella’s cunning and ability to escape trouble endeared him to audiences. His influence transcended Italy’s borders, becoming a celebrated figure in European art.
Pulcinella’s enduring legacy makes him a cherished symbol of Neapolitan culture. Souvenirs featuring this iconic character, from figurines and ornaments to necklaces and keychains, capture his essence perfectly. These delightful keepsakes are more than just mementos; they represent Italy’s rich cultural heritage and Pulcinella’s role in spreading Italian artistic influence throughout Europe. Gifting Pulcinella-themed items is a fantastic way to share the charm and history of this unforgettable character.
Loved by: Fans of Italian culture, theater enthusiasts
Where to buy: Souvenir shops throughout Naples, such as La Città di Pulcinella Presepi e Pastori. You can find figurines, necklaces, Christmas ornaments, and keychains featuring this iconic figure.
12. Pasta and Chili Peppers
Bring a taste of Naples home with high-quality artisan pasta, and a selection of dried spices. These gourmet ingredients are perfect for food lovers who want to recreate Italian dishes in their own kitchens.
Loved by: Food lovers who want to bring a taste of Italy at home, people who love to cook and try new dishes
Where to buy: High-quality artisan packaged pasta can be found at gourmet food stores and grocery shops across Naples. You can’t bring back fresh chili peppers, but explore the selection of dried spices. Check out Casa del Tortellino s.a.s., a pasta shop where you can eat takeout and buy dry packaged pasta! Pastificio Matricardi – Pasta fresca dal 1956 is another great option.
13. Chocolates
Neapolitan chocolate artisans create high-quality sweets with ingredients like hazelnuts, coffee, chili pepper, orange peel, rose, liqueurs, and spices. Look for a variety of chocolates, bonbons, and jars of spreadable chocolate cream.
Loved by: People who love high quality chocolate and sweets
Where to buy: Gourmet chocolate shops, specialty chocolatiers like Gay-Odin (various locations throughout Napoli), Dolce idea Gennaro Bottone Chocolate, and Delva Chocolate. Gay-Odin historic chocolate shop has been in business since the 18th century. They sell a wide variety of chocolates, including their signature nocciole (hazelnuts) dipped in chocolate.
14. Sweets and Pastries
Naples is known for its delicious pastries and sweets, including the famous sfogliatella pastries (frolla or riccia). These delightful treats are a must-try and make perfect gifts for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Loved by: Anyone with a sweet tooth.
Where to buy: There are so many delicious pasticceria (pastry shops) throughout Naples Italy! A local favorite is Mon Sciu Pastry. Try the sfogliatella pastries for a true Neapolitan treat.
15. Faux Leather Products
Naples is known for both faux and fine leather goods, including handbags, wallets, gloves, and belts. These high-quality items are a testament to Italian craftsmanship and style.
Loved by: Fashion lovers, accessory enthusiasts
Where to buy: Faux and fine leather shops in the Centro Storico. This historic area offers a range of boutiques where you can find beautifully crafted faux and fine leather goods. Shops like Luca Talarico, L’Amico per la pelle, Tramontano, and Bonino Napoli are local favorite shops.
16. Gold Jewelry
The Borgo Orefici district is the place to find beautiful gold jewelry, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants. This area is steeped in history and craftsmanship, offering exquisite pieces made by skilled artisans.
Loved by: Jewelry lovers, luxury shoppers
Where to buy: Borgo Orefici district is filled with a variety of shops showcasing intricate gold pieces that highlight the craftsmanship of Neapolitan goldsmiths. Shops like Gioielleria Caruso Cosimo, Marchetiello Gioielli, and Bijouterie Gioielli are more well known for their quality, however there are over a dozen options in this district to explore.
17. Packaged and Bottled Italian Foods
Naples is a great place to find high-quality packaged Italian foods, including olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried pasta, and jars of sun-dried tomatoes, truffles, or porcini mushrooms.
I simple LOVE buying olive oil and balsamic vinegar around the world! I find these gourmet items make such a big difference in quality. I love pairing them with fresh local bread and they last for months!
Loved by: Foodies, home cooks. These gourmet products are ideal for foodies and home cooks looking to bring the flavors of Italy into their kitchens.
Where to buy: Markets and grocery stores across Naples. Some favorite shops include Grangusto, Salumeria Ruocco, O’ Casadduoglio and Alimentari coscia. These venues offer a wide selection of Italian delicacies that make perfect gifts or personal treats.
18. Vintage Goods
Vintage shops in the Spanish Quarter, Centro Storico, and the Chiaia neighborhood offer second-hand items like clothing, jewelry, shoes, handbags, housewares, books, and vinyl records.
Loved by: Vintage enthusiasts, collectors
Where to buy: Vintage shops in the Spanish Quarter, Centro Storico, and Chiaia. Each of these neighborhoods offers a treasure trove of vintage items waiting to be discovered. Shops like Mode e Costume Vintage, Retrophilia Vintage Clothing, and Vintage by Sun Ra.
19. Wine, Liquers and Spirits
Naples offers a fantastic selection of local wines and liqueurs, perfect for wine connoisseurs and those who enjoy after-dinner drinks. Look for local wines like Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio and liqueurs like Limoncello and Strega.
Loved by: Wine connoisseurs and those who enjoy after-dinner drinks
Where to buy: Wine shops and gourmet food stores. Look for local wines like Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio, Pèr’e palummo dei Campi Flegrei, or Bianculella di Ischia. For liqueurs, try Limoncello, Strega (a herbal liqueur from Benevento), or Nocillo (a walnut liqueur).
20. Unique Musical Instruments Gifts from Naples Italy
Neapolitan music is well-known across the world and has played an essential role in the city’s history and culture for hundreds of years. For music aficionados, Naples is the ideal place to discover new traditional instruments, many of which are handcrafted, and even buy one to test at home.
The distinctive mandolin and “castagnette” (similar to Spanish castanets) are among the instruments, along with tambourines used in traditional dances like as the Tarantella and Tammurriata. However, there are other unique instruments with equally unique names, such as “triccheballacche” and “scetavajasse” (names that mean “for waking up” in the local dialect). Traditional Neapolitan folk music instruments are typically composed of wood and other natural materials and are handcrafted in artisan workshops.
Loved by: Music lovers, people who want to learn a new instrument or take on a new hobby
Where to buy: Take a walk down Via San Sebastiano, known in Naples as “the musician street”. Check out shops like Centro Chitarre, Acoustic On Line, and Ceruti online – all musical instrument stores with great knowledgeable staff and great customer service! (both are especially important when picking up a musical instrument!)
This lane is located in the historic center of Naples right behind the Church of Santa Chiara (which is definitely worth a visit!) near the Music Conservatory.
21. Designer Clothing
If you want to shop for haute fashion in Naples, head to the Chiaia district, specifically Via Chiaia, a pedestrian-only street. This fashionable thoroughfare provides a plethora of fine stores and boutiques selling clothing designed by some of the world’s most prominent designers.
Loved by: Fashion enthusiasts, luxury shoppers.
Where to buy: Via Chiaia and the surrounding Chiaia district. This area is renowned for its high-end boutiques and designer stores.
22. Mario Valentino
Did you aware that the Stiletto heel originated in Naples? Mario Valentino is a a well-known leather producer who invented the stiletto heel, the conventional women’s moccasin, and the coral sandal. All of these are now on display at the Bally Shoe Museum in Zurich.
Mario Valentino is a celebrated Italian fashion brand, and is renowned for its luxurious handbags, shoes, and leather accessories.
Loved by: Fashion enthusiasts, luxury shoppers, and those who appreciate high-quality Italian craftsmanship.
Where to buy: Visit Mario Valentino stores and high-end boutiques in the Chiaia district for a wide selection of the brand’s exquisite products.
23. Pizza Themed Items and Gifts
Naples is the birthplace of pizza and rated as one of the best cities in the world for food, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find all sorts of pizza-themed souvenirs here. From t-shirts and hats to pizza-shaped plates, tote bags, t-shirts, kitchen towels, key chains, magnets, there’s something for every pizza lover.
Loved by: Pizza lovers of course! And people who love fun gifts
Where to buy: Souvenir and pizza shops throughout Napoli, Italy
Where to Go Shopping in Naples?
For all my recommended Italy souvenirs above, we shared with you exactly where you can buy them. All are easy to add to your day trips around Naples. However, if you just want to do some general souvenir shopping, here are some of the best places in Naples Italy to buy souvenirs:
- Galleria del Mare: Located at the harbor, this retail complex houses foreign stores and large franchises.
- Corso Umberto is a broad boulevard in the city center where you can locate all of the major name companies. A popular area for residents to shop!
- Via San Gregorio Armeno: This little but lovely retail area, which is more of an alleyway than a street, is where you can find Nativity scene statues called pastori.
- Galleria Umberto I: Although this magnificent 19th-century arcade includes a few businesses, its beauty now is due to its architecture more than its shopping prospects.
- Via Toledo: Naples’ major shopping strip has every sort of business and is bustling at all hours.
- Via Pignasecca: dine and shop your heart out at the little shops and vendors providing traditional local fare along this route.
- Via Chiaia: This shopping plaza connects Piazza del Plebiscito and Piazza dei Martiri, is full of designer brands, and luxury boutiques
- Via Benedetto Croce, Via San Biagio dei Librai, and Via Mezzocannone: immerse yourself in these wonderful city streets in the center of Naples, where you can get all the mementos you need in the numerous stores.
FAQs: What to Buy in Naples Italy
What goods is Naples, Italy known for?
Naples is considered the birthplace of pizza, and the classic Margherita pizza was created there in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. Neapolitan pizza is made with a specific type of dough and is cooked in a wood-fired oven.
Naples has a rich history, dating back to the 8th century BC. The city is home to a number of archaeological sites, including Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Naples is home to some of the most colorful and chaotic markets in Italy. The city also has over 450 churches, ranging from Gothic to Baroque.
What is special in Naples?
- The Birthplace of Pizza
- Hub for History Buffs and Lovers
- The Amalfi Coast
- The Hidden City of Napoli Sotteranea
- Colourful Markets
- A Stunning Opera House
- Its Numerous Churches
What is the most popular souvenir?
Food is the most popular and best souvenir you can bring home! You can bring back pasta, cheeses, olive oil, and of course, cookies, pastries, and chocolates.
Ceramics is another popular Naples souvenir. Naples has a long tradition of ceramics production. You can find everything from plates and vases to figurines and jewelry.
What are some unique souvenirs I can find in Naples?
Naples offers a range of handcrafted items and delicious treats you won’t find everywhere. Here are some popular choices:
- Ceramics: Campania has a rich tradition of ceramics. Look for vases, figurines, decorative tiles, or plates with classic or modern designs.
- Coral and Cameos: The Bay of Naples is famous for coral. Find beautiful jewelry and decorative items made from coral and mother-of-pearl.
- Nativity Scene Figurines (Presepe): Via San Gregorio Armeno, nicknamed “Christmas Alley,” is a must-visit for handcrafted nativity scene figurines. Find traditional or quirky depictions of characters and scenes.
- Lucky Horns (Corno Portafortuna): This red chili pepper-shaped charm is a popular symbol of good luck in Naples.
- Musical Instruments: Consider a handcrafted tambourine (tamburello) or a unique string instrument like the mandolin.
- Souvenirs from Mount Vesuvius. The city of Naples (Napoli) in southern Italy is surrounded by three active volcanoes! Mount Vesuvius, Ischia, and Campi Flegrei. Recently, the long dormant volcano is reawakening.
Are there any foodie souvenirs I can bring back?
Absolutely! Naples is a paradise for food lovers:
- Pasta and Local Products: Stock up on high-quality dried pasta, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sun-dried tomatoes, or local cheeses for a taste of Naples at home.
- Limoncello: This delicious lemon liqueur is a classic souvenir from southern Italy.
- Coffee and Coffee Maker: Take home a traditional Neapolitan stovetop coffee maker (Napoletana) and some freshly roasted coffee beans for an authentic pick-me-up.
What is the famous shopping street in Naples?
One of Naples’ most important tourist destinations, Via Toledo is a historic street dating back to 1536 and home many of the city’s most iconic monuments.
Does Naples, Italy have designer stores?
If you’re looking for designer brands, head to the Chiaia district, particularly Via Chiaia, a pedestrian-only street lined with luxury boutiques.
The Chiara district of Naples is considered one of the nicest areas of the city. This is where you will find the wealthier population, and sometimes celebrities and soccer players. There are a plethora of luxury designer stores throughout the area, and the best streets for shopping are Via Dei Mille and Via Filangieri.
Final Thoughts: Naples Italy Souvenirs
Naples is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and gifts that reflect its rich cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship. From exquisite ceramics and jewelry to delicious sweets and gourmet foods, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Happy shopping!
