MUSEUMS TO GO FOR FREE IN NAPLES

Museo di Capodimonte

Overview: Located in a former royal palace, the Museo di Capodimonte houses one of Italy’s most significant art collections, featuring works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. The museum also offers breathtaking views of the city from the surrounding park.

  • Address: Via Miano, 2, 80131 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Bus: Line 168 from Museo or Line 604.
  • Free Days: Free entry every first Sunday of the month.
  • What to See for Free: Explore the vast art collections, including masterpieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as modern and contemporary works.

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (MANN)

Overview: One of the most important archaeological museums in the world, MANN boasts an extraordinary collection of artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other ancient Roman cities. You can explore classical sculptures, frescoes, mosaics, and more.

  • Address: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Museo (Line 1) or Cavour (Line 2).
  • Free Days: Free entry every first Sunday of the month.
  • What to See for Free: Discover the ancient Roman statues, intricate mosaics, and artifacts from the nearby archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Certosa di San Martino

Overview: Set on the Vomero Hill, the Certosa di San Martino offers visitors stunning views over Naples alongside an impressive museum of art, sculpture, and historical artifacts. The monastery itself is a beautiful example of Neapolitan Baroque architecture.

  • Address: Largo San Martino, 5, 80129 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Vanvitelli (Line 1) and take the funicular to Morghen.
  • Free Days: Free entry every first Sunday of the month.
  • What to See for Free: Wander through the monastery and its cloisters, view the Baroque art collection, and enjoy the panoramic views of Naples from the terrace.

Palazzo delle Arti di Napoli (PAN)

Overview: The Palazzo delle Arti di Napoli is a contemporary art museum that hosts exhibitions ranging from photography and painting to installations and multimedia art. It’s located in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Naples.

  • Address: Via dei Mille, 60, 80121 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Vanvitelli (Line 1).
  • Free Entry: Free permanent exhibitions, with rotating contemporary exhibits often open to the public.
  • What to See for Free: Explore temporary exhibitions that often feature contemporary artists from Italy and abroad. The museum also regularly hosts free events and talks.

Museo delle Arti Sanitarie

Overview: Located in the Ospedale degli Incurabili, the Museo delle Arti Sanitarie showcases medical instruments, anatomical models, and artifacts related to the history of medicine. This hidden gem provides an intriguing glimpse into the history of healthcare in Naples.

  • Address: Via Maria Longo, 50, 80138 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Museo (Line 1).
  • Free Days: Free entry on certain days for special exhibitions or events.
  • What to See for Free: Examine fascinating medical exhibits, including antique surgical tools and pharmaceutical equipment, housed in an atmospheric 16th-century hospital.

Museo del Tesoro di San Gennaro

Overview: Museo del Tesoro di San Gennaro displays the treasures of San Gennaro, Naples’ patron saint, including jewels, gold, and priceless religious artifacts. The museum is located next to Naples Cathedral, making it an ideal spot for both religious and art history enthusiasts.

  • Address: Via Duomo, 149, 80138 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Duomo (Line 1).
  • Free Days: Free entry during religious festivals, particularly on the Feast of San Gennaro (September 19).
  • What to See for Free: Marvel at the precious jewels and relics associated with San Gennaro, along with stunning artworks that celebrate the city’s deep religious traditions.

Pio Monte della Misericordia

Overview: This historic charitable institution is home to Caravaggio’s iconic painting, The Seven Acts of Mercy, as well as numerous other works of art by leading Baroque artists. It’s one of Naples’ lesser-known artistic treasures.

  • Address: Via dei Tribunali, 253, 80139 Naples, Italy
  • How to Get There: Nearest Metro: Dante (Line 1).
  • Free Days: Free entry on special days for cultural heritage events or religious occasions.
  • What to See for Free: Admire Caravaggio’s powerful depiction of mercy and compassion, along with other Baroque artworks housed in the church.