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Certosa di San Martino Naples

4.5
·6k reviews·Napoli, Italy

Monastery with stunning Baroque interiors and a breathtaking terrace view over the Bay of Naples.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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cloister

Certosa di San Martino Naples

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Monastery with stunning Baroque interiors and a breathtaking terrace view over the Bay of Naples.

4.5
(6k reviews)

"The best view of Naples, hands down!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 6,571 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

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

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 Art Collection

Museum

Explore a diverse collection of art and artifacts, offering insights into the history and religious significance of the site.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Breathtaking Views

To experience the best of Certosa di San Martino Naples, aim for weekdays outside peak tourist season. Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and softer light for photos. Consider purchasing the Campania Artecard for potential savings if visiting multiple sites.

Getting to the Top

Reaching Certosa di San Martino involves a scenic journey. While taxis are an option, many visitors opt for the funicular from Montesanto to Morghen, followed by a short walk. This approach offers a more local experience and stunning city vistas along the way.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
First Sunday of the month
Why
Free admission
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

7 things to do in Naples 🇮🇹 (part.1) Last one is my favorite 🍕#thingstodoinnaples #naples #napoli #naplesitaly #naplesfood #naples💙 #italy #vesuvio #royalpalacenaples #maradona #toledostation #spanishquarter #santachiarachiostro #naplesitaly🇮🇹 #naplesitalytrip #pizza
@marieletanneur
56.8K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Best Viewpoint Access

Take the funicular to Morghen for stunning city views before reaching the Certosa. Reddit

🎟️ Ticket & Free Entry

Tickets are €6, reduced €3. Free on the first Sunday of the month. Instagram

my absolute insighter tip if you are on vacation in naples - it‘s so cute and near to the city 🌴🍋🇮🇹 #italytravel #napoli #amalficoast #fyppp #italytiktok
@simonekienast
53.9K likes • 881.5K views
Enjoy this beautiful postcard from the terrace of the Certosa di San. Martino. 📍Largo San Martino 8, Napoli Here is one of the most beautiful views over the city of Naples😍 ‼️ Tips for visiting the Certosa di San Martino: -The full ticket has a cost of 6 euros per person, 3 euros the reduced one. -Admission is free on the occasion of the first Sunday of the month. 🎥 @coppiaecaneinfuga #certos...
coppiaecaneinfuga
2.7K likes • 121.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Descent

Walk down via Pedamentina for a beautiful route back to the historic center. Reddit

🏛️ Combine with Castle

Visit Castel Sant'Elmo nearby for even more expansive 360° views. Reddit

Certosa di San Martino is a former monastery with breathtaking Baroque interiors, dramatic sculptures, and the best view of the Bay of Naples—nestled just below the medieval castle Sant’Elmo. #napoli #napoli❤️ #napels #monastery #baroque #barok #baroquestyle #mementomori #sculpture #italy #visititaly #travel #travelinitaly
sachahodl
16 likes • 258 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Best Viewpoint Access

Take the funicular to Morghen for stunning city views before reaching the Certosa. Reddit

🎟️ Ticket & Free Entry

Tickets are €6, reduced €3. Free on the first Sunday of the month. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Descent

Walk down via Pedamentina for a beautiful route back to the historic center. Reddit

🏛️ Combine with Castle

Visit Castel Sant'Elmo nearby for even more expansive 360° views. Reddit

📸 Capture the Gulf

The terrace offers postcard-perfect shots of the Bay of Naples. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(6k reviews)

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

Spectacular city views
Baroque architecture
Art collection

What People Dislike

Crowded on free days

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

While possible, it's a steep uphill walk. Taking the funicular is a more comfortable and scenic option for most visitors. TikTok

The funicular from Montesanto to Morghen is a popular choice, leading you close to both Castel Sant'Elmo and Certosa di San Martino. Reddit

The funicular ride is easy and enjoyable. The subsequent walk to the Certosa is relatively short and manageable for most. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The terrace offers the most iconic panoramic views of Naples and the Bay. The cloisters and church interiors also provide beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, provide softer light and fewer crowds, making for more dramatic and serene photographs. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and religious institutions. It's best to assume drones are not permitted to avoid any issues. Instagram

Don't miss the view from the terrace overlooking the Gulf of Naples, the intricate details of the Baroque church, and the peaceful cloisters. Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Children might appreciate the vast open spaces and the impressive views. The historical and artistic aspects might be more engaging for older children. TikTok

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. Instagram

It's a former Carthusian monastery, renowned for its Baroque architecture, significant art collection, and its strategic location offering unparalleled views of Naples. Instagram

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