Certosa di San Martino Naples
Monastery with stunning Baroque interiors and a breathtaking terrace view over the Bay of Naples.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Certosa di San Martino Naples
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monastery with stunning Baroque interiors and a breathtaking terrace view over the Bay of Naples.
"The best view of Naples, hands down!"
🎯 Best Viewpoint Access
Take the funicular to Morghen for stunning city views before reaching the Certosa.
🎟️ Ticket & Free Entry
Tickets are €6, reduced €3. Free on the first Sunday of the month.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Terrace
Gaze upon the iconic Bay of Naples and the sprawling city from this unparalleled vantage point. A must-see!
Baroque Church Interiors
Church
Marvel at the opulent Baroque architecture, intricate sculptures, and dramatic ceiling frescoes within the monastery's church.
Museum Art Collection
Museum
Explore a diverse collection of art and artifacts, offering insights into the history and religious significance of the site.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Breathtaking Views
Getting to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Viewpoint Access
Take the funicular to Morghen for stunning city views before reaching the Certosa.
🎟️ Ticket & Free Entry
Tickets are €6, reduced €3. Free on the first Sunday of the month.
🚶♀️ Scenic Descent
Walk down via Pedamentina for a beautiful route back to the historic center.
🏛️ Combine with Castle
Visit Castel Sant'Elmo nearby for even more expansive 360° views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Viewpoint Access
Take the funicular to Morghen for stunning city views before reaching the Certosa.
🎟️ Ticket & Free Entry
Tickets are €6, reduced €3. Free on the first Sunday of the month.
🚶♀️ Scenic Descent
Walk down via Pedamentina for a beautiful route back to the historic center.
🏛️ Combine with Castle
Visit Castel Sant'Elmo nearby for even more expansive 360° views.
📸 Capture the Gulf
The terrace offers postcard-perfect shots of the Bay of Naples.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Certosa di San Martino for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Naples and the Bay of Naples, often calling it a must-visit. The Baroque architecture and art collection also receive high marks. Some find the journey up to be part of the charm, though navigating public transport can be a minor challenge for some.
"The Museo Nazionale di San Martino is a true gem in Naples. The moment you step inside, you are welcomed by a beautiful courtyard that immediately sets a calm and peaceful atmosphere. From the terraces, the views over the city and the bay are absolutely breathtaking – one of the best panoramas you can find in Naples.
What makes this place so special is the tranquility. Unlike many of the busier attractions in the city, you can really take your time to explore, reflect, and enjoy the surroundings here.
If you are visiting Naples, I highly recommend taking the time to come up here. Not only for the history, but also for the views and the peaceful atmosphere. Truly a wonderful experience!"
Lisa Li
"Interesting museum with affordable price. The gardens in monastery are beautiful and worth checking. In front of the museum you can enjoy nice views on Naples."
Bartosz Król
"Located at Largo S. Martino, 5, 80129 Naples NA, Italy 🇮🇹
The monastery is at the top of Vomero Hill, this is an extremely steep climb. I suggest getting there early morning funicular ‘Funicolare di Montesanto’ which starts at the metro stop at bottom “Montesanto” and drops you at the top station “Morghen”. This is just a short walk to the Monastery. I did this, there’s no way I was going to attempt to climb the hill. The funicular cost 1.10€ for a single trip but we got the Metro Day Ticket for 4.50€. The funiculars run all day.
The admission ticket for the Monastery is 6€ and it’s open Thursday to Tuesday 8.30am until 4.00 pm. Closed Wednesday.
The Monastery was built and designed by the architect and sculptor Tino di Camaino. Construction started in 1325 but only the Gothic cellar remains of the original building. The monastery has had to deal with repeated restoration issues over the five centuries. The complex was damaged and occupied by the French during the French Revolution of 1799. In 1804, the Monks were allowed to return. In 1812, the monastery was used for War victims. In 1831, the army left the monastery for necessary restoration work. In 1836, a small group of Monks permanently settled at the Monastery until 1866. The monastery was transformed into a museum and opened to the public in 1867.
I found the monastery to be so beautiful and interesting. There’s a great selection of paintings and statues from the 15th century and beyond. There’s also some beautiful carriages and nativity scenes.The courtyard gardens are lovely and well maintained. I spent about two and a half hours looking through the museum and gardens. It was a beautiful place and the I loved the gardens and the view couldn’t be beat. Would definitely recommend. Thumbs up!!! 👍👍"
Nerine Cummins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to take the funicular from Montesanto to the Morghen stop, followed by a short walk. This route offers beautiful city views. Taxis are also an option, but can be more expensive.
Parking in the Vomero area can be challenging and expensive. It's generally advised to use public transport like the funicular to reach the Certosa.
While possible, it's a steep uphill walk. Taking the funicular is a more comfortable and scenic option for most visitors.
The funicular from Montesanto to Morghen is a popular choice, leading you close to both Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino.
The funicular ride is easy and enjoyable. The subsequent walk to the Certosa is relatively short and manageable for most.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The full ticket price is typically €6, with a reduced price of €3. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, admission is free on the first Sunday of every month, making it a popular time to visit. Be prepared for larger crowds on these days.
Yes, the Certosa di San Martino is often included in the Campania Artecard, which can offer savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions in the region.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or a reliable tourism guide for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for free admission days or during peak season, can help you save time and guarantee entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The terrace offers the most iconic panoramic views of Naples and the Bay. The cloisters and church interiors also provide beautiful photographic opportunities. 
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum and church, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions or 'no photo' signs in certain areas.
Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for more dramatic and serene photographs.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and religious institutions. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues.
Don't miss the view from the terrace overlooking the Gulf of Naples, the intricate details of the Baroque church, and the peaceful cloisters.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the Baroque church with its frescoes and altar, wander through the museum's art collection, and enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the terrace.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the church, museum, and the breathtaking views. You might want more time if you're a history or art enthusiast.
Children might appreciate the vast open spaces and the impressive views. The historical and artistic aspects might be more engaging for older children.
While official guided tours might not always be available, you can often find information leaflets or audio guides. Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth experience.
It's a former Carthusian monastery, renowned for its Baroque architecture, significant art collection, and its strategic location offering unparalleled views of Naples.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum's art collection might be more engaging for older children or those with a keen interest in history, the sheer scale of the monastery and the dramatic architecture can still capture their imagination. Encourage them to spot landmarks from the viewpoint or imagine life as monks centuries ago. Pack snacks and water, as amenities within the Certosa itself might be limited.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This makes it an accessible attraction for those looking to experience Naples' rich history and stunning views without a significant cost. Opting for the funicular instead of a taxi is also a more economical way to reach the site. Consider packing your own lunch or snacks to enjoy with the view, further reducing expenses. If you plan to visit multiple attractions, look into the Campania Artecard, which might offer combined entry and transport discounts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the View
+1To make the most of this experience, consider visiting during the golden hour – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light enhances the colors of the city and the sea, creating a truly magical ambiance. The Reddit community often discusses this viewpoint as one of the best in Naples, recommending it for its sheer beauty and the sense of tranquility it offers away from the bustling city streets below.
Combine your visit to the Certosa with a trip to the adjacent Castel Sant'Elmo. This medieval fortress offers even more expansive 360-degree views, providing a complementary perspective to the Certosa's terrace. Together, these two sites offer an unforgettable visual journey of Naples.
Architectural and Artistic Treasures
Beyond the church, the monastery houses a museum with a diverse collection of art and artifacts. This collection provides valuable insights into the history of the Carthusian order and the cultural significance of Naples. Visitors can explore religious art, historical objects, and decorative pieces that tell the story of the site and its inhabitants.
Many visitors are struck by the dramatic sculptures and the overall opulence of the Baroque style. The peaceful gardens also offer a serene escape, allowing for quiet contemplation amidst the historical beauty. The intricate details found throughout the monastery are a delight for art and history enthusiasts.
Navigating to the Heights
Once you alight at the Morghen stop, it's a relatively short and pleasant walk to both Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino. This approach is often preferred over driving or taking a taxi, as parking in the Vomero district can be difficult and costly. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, offering glimpses of local life and stunning cityscapes.
For those who enjoy a more active exploration, the via Pedamentina offers a charming descent from the Certosa area back down towards the historic center. This ancient pathway provides a different perspective of the city and a chance to discover hidden corners.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit