The narrow streets of Naples are alive with energy: scooters weaving past crumbling Baroque façades, voices rising in animated conversation, and the irresistible aroma of dough blistering in wood-fired ovens.
This is the city where pizza was born — and still reigns supreme. From centuries-old pizzerias to modern masters, Naples remains the ultimate destination to taste pizza in its purest, most authentic form.
A Slice of History
Pizza has humble beginnings. For centuries, Neapolitans topped flatbreads with tomatoes, oil, and herbs — food for the poor, eaten on the go. But in 1889, history was sealed when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples.
To honor her, a local pizzaiolo created a pie with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil — red, white, and green, echoing the Italian flag. Thus, Pizza Margherita was born, and Naples’ humble street food became a national treasure.
That legacy lives on today. In fact, the art of Neapolitan pizza making has earned UNESCO recognition as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage — proof that what happens in Naples’ ovens is far more than cooking. It’s culture.
What Makes Neopolitan Pizza Unique?
Not every pizza deserves the title “Neapolitan.” The rules are strict, and pizzaiolos take them seriously. The dough must be mixed by hand or slow mixer, then left to rise for hours. Only San Marzano tomatoes grown in volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius and fresh mozzarella di bufala are permitted. Once assembled, the pizza must be baked in a wood-fired oven at 485°C for just 60–90 seconds.
The result? A soft, slightly chewy crust with that famous leopard-spotted char, fresh ingredients that sing with flavor, and a balance so perfect it feels less like food and more like art.
In Naples, pizza isn’t just dinner — it’s a way of life. The rituals around food, family, and community are woven into everyday Italian culture.
If you’d like to explore more of these traditions beyond the plate, don’t miss our article on Living the Italian Way: Daily Life Traditions Travelers Should Experience
Planning a Trip to Europe?
We can help create your perfect itinerary!
- Worried you'll miss the hidden gems?
- How long should you stay in each place?
- Should you rent a car, train it, or both?
Where to Eat the Best Pizza in Naples
While nearly every corner of Naples has its local gem, a few names stand out as institutions:
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele – A legend since 1870, serving only two kinds: Margherita and Marinara. Purity at its best.
- Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba – Established in 1830 (with origins dating back to 1738), this is widely considered the world’s first pizzeria. A true slice of history still serving traditional pies in the heart of Naples.
- Sorbillo – Beloved by locals and travelers alike, with a menu that celebrates tradition while embracing creativity.
- Di Matteo – Known not just for its pizza but for pizza fritta (fried pizza), a hearty Neapolitan specialty that’s as indulgent as it sounds.
- Pizzeria Pellone – Famous for its larger-than-life pies and chewy, slightly charred crusts, Pellone serves up some of the most authentic Neapolitan pizza you’ll find — rich, rustic, and deeply satisfying.
These pizzerias aren’t just restaurants; they’re shrines to a centuries-old craft.
Beyond the Slice: Pizza Experiences
Eating pizza in Naples is unforgettable, but living it takes the experience further. Visitors can join a pizza-making class with master pizzaiolos, learning the secret of that perfect dough stretch. Food tours through the historic center let you taste your way from slice to slice while hearing stories of the neighborhoods that made pizza famous. And to elevate the experience, pair your pie with a glass of Campania’s crisp Falanghina or bold Aglianico wines.
Naples is just one chapter in Italy’s rich culinary story. Each region offers its own specialties, from truffles in Piedmont to seafood in Sicily.
For a deeper dive into the country’s diverse flavors, visit A Culinary Tour Through Italy: Regional Dishes and Where to Try Them
A Culinary Pilgrimage
To taste pizza in Naples is to step into a living tradition. Each slice carries the history of the city — its struggles, creativity, and love for simple, honest food.
It isn’t just a meal; it’s a pilgrimage for food lovers, a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life are also the most profound.
Want to explore more of Italy’s culinary treasures? From the vineyards of Tuscany to the street food of Sicily, we design immersive travel experiences that connect you with the heart of European culture.
Hi, I’m Jack Baumann – founder of Guidester. I’ve spent over 15 years living and traveling throughout Europe, and I created Guidester in 2014 to help others experience the best of what Europe has to offer. What started as a passion project has grown into a full-service travel concierge and tour company, designed to make your journey smoother, richer, and more meaningful.
Want to know more about my story? Click here to learn more about me.
👇Don’t forget to grab your free international travel checklist just below – it’s packed with essentials to help you feel fully prepared for your next adventure!
Jack Baumann
President of Guidester
The Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist
Download ‘10 Crucial Things To Do Before Traveling Abroad’ to avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth trip; adapters and electronics, packing tips, foreign currency, phone plans, and more!
