free walking tour naples florida

Old Naples Free Walking Tour

Learn about historic Old Naples and visionaries who founded it

HAVE FUN EXPLORING HISTORY!

Guests on the Old Naples Free Walking Tour will stroll through historic Old Naples, discover key locations from the city’s past, and learn about the town’s colorful history and the visionaries who created it. Whether you’re a history buff, a visitor looking to learn more about this fast-growing city, or a longtime resident who wants a deeper connection to the place you call home, this tour has something for everyone.

PEOPLE YOU WILL MEET in a detailed guide book and tour stops

• Native peoples
• Industrialists and entrepreneurs

PLACES YOU WILL DISCOVER

• The past and future Naples Hotel
• The oldest structure still standing in Naples, built in 1895
• The famed pier first constructed in 1888
• Interesting homes built in the early 1900s with long and engaging histories
• Commercial buildings that are more than a century old

STORIES YOU WILL BE TOLD

• The legacies of native tribes of the past and present
• The discovery of “La Florida” by European explorers in 1513
• How 4 million acres of coveted real estate, including Naples, were sold for $1 million (25 cents an acre)
• Who started the area’s lucrative tourism industry
• The “new Italy,” how Naples got its name
• Why Kentucky was instrumental in the creation of “Summerland in Wintertime”
• Why you don’t need a license to fish off of the Naples Pier
• The ambitious developer who wanted to make “the finest place in the world to live”

TOUR DETAILS

MEETING SPOT

Rodgers Park 1106 3rd St S Naples, FL 34102

Look for the blue umbrella about 250 feet north of Tommy Bahamas on 3rd Street.

100 minutes, with a short break to explore the historic Naples Pier and take in the breathtaking views.

About 1 mile through the Old Naples historic district.

Free! Our guides work off the generosity of our guests. If you enjoy the stroll through history, you can show your appreciation by leaving a tip.

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Walking Tour Naples

Walking tour of naples and pompeii.

Book now a Walking tour of Naples or an excursions to the nearby archeological sites like Pompeii!

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If you want to know more about Naples' history and traditions, we will guide you through different routes in the city. If you please, the journey will continue in the archaeological site of Pompeii, a tour of the ancient city among the most fascinating villas and streets in the world.

Free Walking Tour Old Town Naples

Visit the center of Naples with our certified guides and discover its hidden treasures, stories and legends.

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We will reveal many curiosities and legends about these places and we will stop to taste the most famous dishes of Neapolitan cuisine.

Excursion to Pompeii

Visit with us the most famous archaeological site in the world: Pompeii! Its sumptuous villas and ancient Roman lifestyle will impress you!

We organize unique experiences and itineraries with certified guides in English. Live a unique experience with Napuletours! 

Walking Tour of Naples and excursions in one of the most fascinating cities in the world

We are a team of professional and charismatic guides, passionate about the history, culture and traditions of our city, where we have been working as tour guides for many years. We provide our tours in a didactic and fun way and we will share with you the best of Naples making your holidays unforgettable. Book now one of our tours!

Do you want to organize a private tour? Are you a group and are you planning a trip to Naples? We can organize itineraries and logistics!

We organize your tour or private excursion for your group to visit Naples and its surroundings.

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We are all passionate guides and we want to leave a memory of this beautiful city during our tours of Naples. We will be happy to recommend the tastiest meals and the greatest pizza to try. 😁🍕

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Free Walking Tour of Naples Old Town

• 9.40 / 10 4,373 reviews | 42,177 travellers Sara has been a great guide, attentive to the entire group and giving my ideas for things to do in Naples. It has been a success to do the Tour with her and it has been quite entertaining and interesting. 10 Rut Martínez
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Legendary stories of Ancient Greeks and Romans await you on this  free walking tour of Naples Old Town . Explore the city's most historic streets with an expert English-speaking guide!

Meet your guide in Piazza Dante  at the indicated time   ready to embark on your adventure through history on this  free walking tour of ancient Naples . Accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide, you'll explore one of the most fascinating areas of the city.

First we'll cross Port'Alba, one of the old gates which gave access through the walls of Naples . Did you know that it was built in the 18th century by a Spanish viceroy? That's just one of the fascinating facts you'll discover on the tour of this most historic of centres!

Then it's on to Piazza Bellina, home to an important archaeological site , stretching all the way back to Naples' Greek past. And here you can admire the enormous renaissance and baroque palaces, stunning examples of the local architecture!

Next the tour explores the  via dei Tribunali , one of the oldest streets in Naples, and here we'll make a stop alongside the Pulcinella sculpture . Your expert guide will tell you all about the origins of this distinctive mask, and its important place in the local culture. And close by, you'll find the greco-roman monument to the god Nilus, constructed between the 2nd and 3rd centuries .

The next stops on the free tour of Naples are the Churches of Purgatory and St. Clara - two perfect examples of Naples' rich religious architecture. And the cherry on the cake is the  piazza del Gesù Nuovo , one of the most emblematic in the city, where we'll put an end to the free tour of Naples after between 2 hours and 2 hours and fifteen minutes of activity.

It is not possible to book this free walking tour for groups of more than 6 people. If you're a larger group, we recommend reserving our  Private Guided Tour of Naples .

Other free tours of Naples

Looking for  more free walking tours in Naples ? If you'd like to delve deep into the city, we recommend our Free Walking Tour of Naples , and if you'd like to discover it's most beautiful viewpoints and streets, check out our  Free Tour of Naples Viewpoints & Vicoli .

Please note that the order of the tour's itinerary is flexible and subject to changes, and as such may vary.

More Information

2 hours - 2 hours 15 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English speaking guide

Map of Naples

Not included

Radio guide and ear phones to listen to the guide

When to book?

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Napul'è Tours | Napoli Official Tour Show more

Corporate name: DESTINAZIONE ITALIA S.R.L.

Corporate name: ITALY OFFICIAL TOUR SRL

Allowed, only in outdoor areas.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Will we visit the interior of the monuments?

A - No, the free tour of old Naples includes just the walking tour of the city, without entry inside the monuments. We'll visit the outside of them.

Q - Can we pay the guide's tips by card?

A - No, the guide will only accept tips in cash. It won't be possible to pay by credit card or bank transfer.

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 6 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Piazza Dante.

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Tours of Historic Palm Cottage

Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Saturday 12pm to 4pm

For tours of Historic Palm Cottage in December , please click “ Christmas at Palm Cottage! ” to be re-directed to our festive, annual holiday tours. 

At the corner of 12th Avenue South and Gulfshore Boulevard sits an exquisite example of Naples authentic charm, Historic Palm Cottage™. Under the stewardship of Naples Historical Society, Palm Cottage™ — a house museum — invites visitors to experience the rustic, hand-crafted charm of Old Naples.  Tours are led by well-informed Docents who share unique insights, historic facts and colorful tales about this local architectural gem and the community surrounding it.  When a volunteer docent isn’t available, guests will be provided with a professionally written pamphlet and take a self-guided tour ( available in several languages !). 

Historic Palm Cottage, the oldest house in Naples (built in 1895), is constructed of tabby mortar, a hand-made concrete consisting of sand, shells and water.  This two-story house was built by one of Naples’ founding residents, Walter N. Haldeman, and boasts 3,500 square feet of original and donated artwork, furnishings and tools spanning back to 1895.  Palm Cottage is listed as a Landmark in the National Register of Historic Places.  

A tour of Historic Palm Cottage (self-guided or docent-guided) includes a stroll through The Norris Gardens at Palm Cottage and access to the Archival Viewing Center (formerly, the Guest House) to watch a 24-minute Telly-Award winning video about Naples’ past.

Enjoyment of The Norris Gardens and film in the Viewing Center is good only for the day of your tour; please manage your schedule accordingly — the Cottage closes at 4pm.  OR, apply $10 from your day’s admission to new or renewing Membership and return for FREE throughout the year!

NAPOLI THAT'S AMORE

We are a Cultural Association, managed by licensed professionals, that offers Free Walking Tours led by our local members. Our mission is to improve the global image of Naples.

Come and meet local artisans who represent the heart and the excellence of Naples. You don’t know Naples if you do not know Neapolitans!

We love our city and our fellow citizens: tourism is sustainable when tourists try to make a positive impact on the local culture, environment and society.

The Old Town walk is a Free Walking Tour through the ancient streets of Neapolis. We will take you back to Greek and Roman times through the cheerful alleys of ancient Naples.

Best of Naples

The Best of Naples walk is a Free Walking Tour that takes you from the monumental area of the city, through one of its most important streets, via Toledo, until the most iconic piazzas of the old town.

• ROYAL NAPLES

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A walking tour in naples, florida.

By Chelle Koster Walton  

Forgo the luxury car and stroll tree-lined streets lined with shops, sculptures and restaurants. Start at 5th Avenue South in Naples.

You'll find the best walking in Olde Naples.

- Lauren Tjaden for VISIT FLORIDA

The Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club.

Footloose & Car-Free

Naples  has a reputation for the finer things in life, but that doesn't mean you'll need a luxury car to get around town. Feet and your favorite sneakers or sandals will do just fine as you make your way from streets lined with designer shops, art sculptures, sidewalk restaurants and blossomy vegetation to beaches carpeted with plush, platinum-toned sand.

You'll find the best walking in Olde Naples, a compact square less than one mile by one mile, delineated by celebrated Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. To expand your car-free experience in this land of milk and honey to outlying shopping and dining complexes, hop aboard the Naples Trolley or rent a bike.

Parking Zone

Fifth Avenue South in Naples, an upbeat Main Street district with an air of European sophistication, is most convenient to the action. The  Inn on Fifth  overlooks the glittering, vivacious street. The Capri Inn  lies just a few blocks away.  Bellasera Hotel   also dwells in the neighborhood.  Cove Inn on Naples Bay  and  Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club  each lie about a mile from Fifth Avenue South.

You'll find lush greenery in Olde Naples.

Don't forget to visit Naples' white sand beaches while you're in town.

Walk This Way

• With its love of art and its alfresco café society, Naples feels deliciously as Italian as its name. It's one of our favorite haunts for a night on the town touched with glamour and a bit of exquisite magic. But it's also equally intriguing under the sun. Put on your shopping shoes and start where 5th Avenue in Naples branches off the Tamiami Trail (Highway 41). Between the shops selling whimsical gifts, casual resort clothing, tropical-style home accessories, royal jewels (really!) and handcrafted jewelry, Sugden Community Theatre and a medley of eclectic art galleries uphold Naples' name in cultural circles. A block off Fifth, von Leibig Art Center displays local and Florida talent in ever-changing exhibits. Nearby Cambier Park is the site of free weekly concerts from February to early May, as well as a tennis center and a perfect green space for family moments. For lunch along 5th Avenue, choose from Irish fare, authentic Italian, new Caribbean, bistro or cutting-edge American style. Naples' dining scene has built a reputation for fine execution and ingenuity. Walk off the calories as you continue toward the beach, where it's time to trade off for bare feet or flip flops. Stroll the wide, white sands for a few blocks to the Naples Fishing Pier , heart of Olde Naples since it was built in the late 1800s to accommodate early tourists arriving under sail. Cast a line or merely longing gazes from the 600-foot pier.

The Naples Pier offers great fishing and beautiful views.

Tin City offers a fun collection of shops and eateries.

Then head up to Gordon Drive to see a row of charming old Florida cottages that back up to the main attraction, Third Street South. Stop for a bottle of wine, a look at fine European antiques, an espresso boost, a Donna Karan original or a gold Naples medallion. Follow 12th Avenue South to Crayton Cove, a historic, seaworthy neighborhood clustered along the city docks. Have a bite at the Dock Restaurant, a seafood waterfront institution with a Caribbean flair, before circling back to Fifth Avenue along 10th Street North.

Two more shopping-dining districts await along the way: the salt-seasoned, relaxed  Tin City  and the Italian-inspired, upscale Bayfront. Make one last stop to admire the historic  Naples Depot Museum  before giving your feet a rest at one of the lively cafe-clubs along Fifth Avenue South. For more information on doing Naples on foot, visit  ParadiseCoast.com .

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• Tours in Naples

Old Town Naples Tour by Walkative!

Overview of the tour in Naples

The bustling city of Naples is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Established by the Greeks, and developed under the Romans. Throughout its history, it demonstrated an uncanny ability to absorb and integrate different cultures while maintaining its unique identity. Many of the original oldest buildings and streets have been built over during the intervening centuries. Our guides, however, know where to look to discover traces of the city's most ancient history. Join us on our mission to uncover traces of this ancient past of Naples. Greek and Roman influences remain a cornerstone of the city, seen in its urban plan, architectural design, and cultural traditions. The undeniable charm of Naples lies in the layers of civilizations that are stacked upon one another, with the ancient world still visible beneath the vibrant life of the modern city. Join us on our discovery of Naples, a significant center of the ancient Mediterranean world. It is a journey you can’t miss! During the 2-hour tour, you will see and discover: -Piazza Bellini -Via Tribunali -Nile statue -Pulcinella statue -Via Spaccanapoli -San Gregorio Armeno -Piazza Domenico Maggiore

This activity includes:

• Statua del Dio Nilo
• Spaccanapoli
• Busto di Pulcinella
• piazza bellini
• I Minopoli a San Gregorio Armeno
• Chiesa di San Domenico Maggiore
• Portico Pizzeria e Trattoria Via Tribunali

Meeting point

Piazza Bellini, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

The meeting point will be Piazza Bellini - look out for a yellow umbrella.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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12 things to do in Naples, Florida, to experience its natural beauty

By: Author Bonnie Gross

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2024

Naples is a very rich place. It is where Fortune 500 executives retire and by some accounts, it has the second highest proportion of millionaires per capita in the U.S. (In that study, Los Alamos, New Mexico, was No. 1.)

For lovers of the natural outdoors, Naples is also very rich.

Our list of what to do in Naples, Florida, starts with spectacular beaches, includes one of the largest swaths of old-growth cypress at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and then takes advantage of the easy proximity to state and national parks preserving Florida’s wildest lands.

The outskirts of Naples are home to the rare Florida panther and the Gulf waters teem with marine life, with dolphins, rays and all sorts of birds regularly viewed from the beaches. It’s easy for nature-lovers to find things to do in Naples Florida.

Naples makes a good base for a variety of activities in the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands, the maze of mangrove islands that form the southwest coast of Florida below Naples. It offers a great variety of places to kayak, hiking trails, some good camping spots and some of the best places to get stone crabs during crab season.

In summer, there are many beach and water-oriented activities. In winter, it’s perfect for hiking, kayaking and exploring historic sites.

1. Explore small ‘secret’ beaches by bike

Bicycling is a great way to explore Naples and its older Gulf-front neighborhoods with their lush tropical landscaping and billionaire’s mansions.

These neighborhoods have a series of small beach-access parks. They have little or no parking and are designed for use by locals. But by bike, you can sample several of these “secret” beaches and find a stretch of sand and water to yourself.

Looking for things to do in Naples, Florida, for couples? We think biking and beach hopping is perfect.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story on biking and beach-hopping in Naples.

All the beaches in Naples are all splendid, but be sure to stop at the free historic fishing pier . It’s fun to see what fishermen reel in as catch of the day; it is full of heron, egrets and other birds, and I always see dolphins in the water here. Here’s video of an angler catching and releasing a huge endangered sawtooth .

The Naples Pier was built in 1888, but has been rebuilt five times after hurricanes. It currently is awaiting rebuilding after Hurricane Ian, though a portion is open.

Located at the west end of 12th Avenue South off Gulf Shore Boulevard, it is an especially nice place to watch the sunset.

The most popular and family-friendly beach in Naples is at Lowdermilk Park , which has ample parking, a concession stand that serves hot dogs and hamburgers, sand volleyball courts, two children’s playgrounds, picnic tables, benches plus restroom and showers.  It’s at 1301 Gulfshore Blvd. North.

2. Ride the tide at Clam Pass Beach

Ready to explore? Try Clam Pass Beach.  It qualifies as one of the “secret places” in Naples, Florida that is off the beaten path. (Class Pass Beach has reopened.)

First, just reaching it is an adventure: You can walk or take a free tram from the parking lot down a three-quarters-mile long boardwalk through a mangrove forest. Then, from the shady mangrove tunnel, you emerge to a beach with sand that is blindingly white and water impossibly turquoise. 

The pass itself is a narrow river-like opening in the mangroves, shallow enough an adult can stand at the center except at the highest tide. If you hop into the waters of the pass, you are gently swept away by the tide. If the tide is coming in, you float into a shallow mangrove-fringed lagoon. If the tide is going out, you float out into the Gulf, which remains shallow for a great distance. It’s a natural “lazy river” adventure, where the pull and depth of the water is safe but still fun.  Located at Seagate Drive and Crayton Road.

Florida Rambler story on visiting Clam Pass Park.

3. Snorkel at Delnor-Wiggins Beach State Park

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a great destination: You can enjoy so many activities in one place – kayaking, surf-fishing & a one-mile-long powdery-white sand beach with shaded picnic tables nearby.

The beach is a rare Gulf Coast spot where snorkeling is popular. There is a hard bottom reef that runs parallel to the beach near parking areas one and two. It’s in about 8 or 10 feet of water.

Beach concessions are located in parking lot four, where you can get basic burgers and snacks as well as rent beach umbrellas, floats and beach toys.

All along the beach, there are picnic tables a little ways from the beach, tucked among shade of trees. These make appealing places for a picnic or to relax out of the sun.

An observation deck and short boardwalk are located in coastal hammock at the north end of the park.

Florida Rambler story on Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park.

Nearby, directly across the pass on the north end of Delnor Wiggins is another great beach — Barefoot Beach in Bonita Springs , once proclaimed the second-best beach in America by the professor who goes by the name Dr. Beach. Though it’s easy to reach, Barefoot Beach makes you feel miles away from highways and highrises. It’s one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s southwest coast. You may find sand-dollars, shells or spot a bottle-nosed dolphin in the water in the distance. Gopher tortoises and their burrows are plentiful along the nature trail that runs between the sand dunes and the hammock. It’s located on Barefoot Beach Road off Bonita Beach Boulevard.

Still looking for a fresh beach to explore? South of Naples, Tigertail Beach in Marco Island is a pristine sand spit with great birding. You wade across a lagoon to reach the beach. (Tigertail Beach is open.)

4. Take a stroll on the Gordon River Greenway

In the heart of Naples, a 2-mile-long boardwalk and trail through wetlands connects several natural spots. The free  Gordon River Greenway  opened in fall 2014. Park at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road in the joint parking lot between Naples Zoo and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.

The trail is designed for walkers and bicyclists and has wildlife viewing stations,  benches, educational signs and restrooms. You also can launch kayaks here.

This boardwalk is one of the best free things to do in Naples, Florida.

5. Explore one of the last virgin cypress swamps at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

One of the most exquisite parcels of land that has been preserved in Florida is found about 15 miles east of Naples — the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary .  Its 2.25 mile boardwalk takes you into a green and liquid world where at every turn you see scenes so beautiful they could have been arranged by the world’s best floral designer. Birds, gators and all sorts of flora (including rare orchids) can be seen along the boardwalk.

I’ve visited Corkscrew Swamp both in winter and summer, and have found it to be a beautiful and quiet place, where you can hear a rustle in the brush that signals a snake’s movement.

In August, the very rare ghost orchid (famous from the Meryl Streep movie,  Adaptation ) blooms and can often be spotted. (Here’s our story about the ghost orchid .)

Don’t be afraid of a summer visit. The boardwalk is largely shaded and the gambusia fish eat mosquito larva, so the bugs aren’t bad. For those who do not wish to walk the full 2.25 miles, an optional trail shortens the walk to one mile.

Admission is $17 for adults and admission is by advance ticketing. The address is 375 Sanctuary Road West.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story on Corkscrew .

6. See a National Historic Engineering Landmark at Collier-Seminole State Park

As you head into the southwest corner of Florida, the world gets wilder and wetter. Vast stretches look like thickly forested land, but they’re actually mangrove swamps, impenetrable except by boat. Collier-Seminole State Park, 17 miles south of Naples on the Tamiami Trail (SR 41), preserves 7,271 acres of this Florida wilderness.

Collier-Seminole State Park draws people who love the natural Florida for camping, hiking and paddling. It’s also home to the 1924 Bay City Walking Dredge, and how often do you get to visit a “National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark”? The hulking dredge was used to build the first road across the Everglades, a feat many doubted was possible. The signage at the dredge tells its interesting history.

This is a destination best visited in winter, as the mosquitos can be fierce here May to October.

Here’s more about Collier-Seminole.

7. Enter the Everglades and hike

Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park — the biggest state park in Florida — is a vast, wild place near Everglades City, about 25 miles southeast of Naples. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the Everglades and you can hike for miles here on old logging roads with good possibiities for seeing wildlife. (I’d undertake this kind of hike in winter, not the buggy summer.)

Fakahatchee includes a really special place, one of the prettiest boardwalks in Florida, the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk on U.S. 29 on the Tamiami Trail.  The 2,000-foot-long boardwalk through old growth cypress swampland is a stunning place.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story on Fakahatchee and the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk.

8. Kayak through old Bonita Springs on the Imperial River

Near Naples is Bonita Springs, where you will find a a delightful kayak trip through Old Florida scenery.

The Imperial River sounds rather grand, but it is actually a shallow river that flows under a canopy of oaks and pines, narrowing into a twisty cypress-lined creek as it gets too shallow to paddle near its headwaters.

The tea-colored water is clear and the bottom is sandy at spots, allowing visibility to see fish, turtles and, if you’re lucky, manatees. (We were lucky on a March visit.)

A kayak and SUP rental company operates seasonally October through May.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story on paddling the Imperial River.

9. See Florida history come alive at Chokoloskee

When you’re ready for a visit to authentic Old Florida, head south an hour where the road ends in Chokoloskee, an island just off Everglades City.  Here you’ll find Historic Smallwood Store , a general store that is now a museum.

It opened in 1906 when Chokoloskee was the Wild West and Ted Smallwood was a pioneer. This wooden building was an Indian trading post, post office and general store. It’s still owned and run by Ted Smallwood’s family.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story on Historic Smallwood Store .

10. Eat seafood in Everglades City

While you visit Chokoloskee, be sure to stop in Everglades City for   fresh seafood, such as stone crabs , when it’s in season, Oct. 15 to May 15.

Everglades City is a small fishing town about 35 miles south of Naples. Dozens of fishermen are based on its Barron River, and so are several informal, unpretentious seafood restaurants. It’s a picturesque little town, with a historic city hall that has survived terrible hurricanes that have flooded this town repeatedly.

Here’s a Florida Rambler story about getting stone crabs in Everglades Cit y .

In winter, Everglades City is a good base for visiting the national parks and preserves in this region. The area is very seasonal, with many restaurants closed in the summer.

Nearby, Everglades National Park Gulf Coast Visitor Center  offers information about kayaking and hiking in the area, You also can rent kayaks or book a boat tour into the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge .

11. Cruise on the Gulf on a shelling or bird rookery boat trip

With so many waterways, Naples is a great place to take a boat tour . We enjoyed the shelling trip aboard a large catamaran Sweet Liberty . It’s three hours, costs $45 for adults and you spend about an hour on Keewaydin Island, the largely undeveloped barrier island just south of Naples.  We’ve taken this cruise in the sultry summer and enjoyed it.

We’ve also enjoyed a sunset cruise in winter to see bird rookeries from the Southwest Florida Nature Conservancy.

12. Learn some wacky history at Koreshan State Park

Florida’s wierdness goes back to its first settlers, and Koreshan State Historic Site celebrates one of our earliest eccentrics. Thanks to this cult leader, though, a lovely wooded site on the Estero River was preserved through the years for us to enjoy.

The walking tour of the grounds and buildings tells the story of Dr. Cyrus R. Teed, who led the utopian community that eventually attracted 200 followers. They were an industrious group, operating a bakery, sawmill, printing facility, even a restaurant and hotel on the main road, U.S. 41.

Today Koreshan State Park offers great natural beauty. Sprawling along the lovely Estero River, there are gardens and exotic bamboo forests left over from the community’s beautification efforts, 11 historic buildings and attractive, shaded picnic sites and an excellent campground.

Florida Rambler story on visiting Koreshan State Park.

What to do in Naples, Florida, beyond our top 12 suggestions

Get a taste of the Everglades driving the Tamiami Trail   into the Everglades.  The Tamiami Trail, the main artery through Naples, continues into the Everglades as you take it south and east. It gets you close to Everglades scenery and offers several outstanding stops along the way. Your destination could be Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery , 52388 Tamiami Trail. Butcher is a world-renown photographer whose large-scale black-and-white photos are designed to make the viewer feel like he is at the center of the photo. Butcher’s studio overlooks a scenic pond, frequented by alligators and wading birds.

Naples, Florida, weather

Directly across Alligator Alley from Fort Lauderdale, Naples is blessed with the same balmy winter weather that makes it one of Florida’s more reliable warm-weather destinations. (Even a few hours north can be five or 10 degrees cooler.) Summers are steamy, with surf temperature in the Gulf hitting 90 degrees and the air temperature a few degrees higher.

Average highs in winter are in the 70s with lows in the 50s. Spring and fall temps see highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. Highs in summer are in the 90s and lows are in the 70s.

The author, Bonnie Gross, travels with her husband David Blasco, discovering off-the-beaten path places to hike, kayak, bike, swim and explore. Florida Rambler was founded in 2010 by Bonnie and fellow journalist Bob Rountree, two long-time Florida residents who have spent decades exploring the Florida outdoors. Their articles have been published in the Sun Sentinel, the Miami Herald, the Orlando Sentinel, The Guardian and Visit Florida.

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Tuesday 18th of July 2023

Hi, Anyone know when the Old Florida Festival is?

Bob Rountree

Wednesday 19th of July 2023

The Old Florida Festival is held annually in March at the Collier County Museum in Naples. An exact date has been set for next year. Here's a link you can use to check: https://www.myoldflorida.com/old-florida-festival.html

Barbara Roberts Silver

Friday 3rd of February 2017

What a a wonderful, informative site. Your descriptions and photos are great..

A first-time guide to Naples, Florida

Jun 20, 2024 • 7 min read

The beaches in Naples are ideal whether you're traveling solo, with your sweetheart or with family © Susanne Pommer / Shutterstock

Located on the southeast edge of the Florida peninsula, the cozy coastal town of Naples is a wonderful choice for your next weekend escape, romantic getaway or family trip.

The area offers plenty of water sports, fine dining and upscale shopping, though its pristine beaches alone are enough for a relaxing vacation, and the super friendly people here are more than willing to reveal their insider tips about the Paradise Coast.

While reports show that Naples is home to some of the wealthiest people  in the US, the cost of living here is still more affordable than other popular Florida cities like Miami or Palm Beach. And despite the rumors that the city isn’t the most diverse, I, as a Black woman, feel very safe and welcomed by the locals.

Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your first time in Naples. 

When should I go to Naples?

The best time to visit Naples is between March and May. Notably, it has yet to become a popular spring break spot, so you'll find it peaceful this time of year. The weather is at its most pleasant, and accommodations are reasonably priced. 

From June to September, Naples gets very hot, with lots of rain and average temperatures over 90ºF (32ºC), sometimes even exceeding 100ºF (38ºC). If you visit around this time, be sure to bring an umbrella, as hurricane season for the Sunshine State is July through October. Although the weather is dicey, you'll find some decent deals around this time. 

Winters in Naples are mild but still offer an escape from the cold weather, as average temperatures linger around the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24ºC). This is also an ideal time for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. 

How much time should I spend in Naples?

Naples is the perfect destination for a three-day weekend trip and, in my opinion, works best for anyone looking for a quick solo or romantic getaway to experience the white sandy beaches and great food. Stay longer, and you can make time for day trips to nearby destinations like Fort Myers and Everglades National Park .

How do I get to Naples? 

Although Naples does have its own airport, it’s primarily reserved for those flying on private airplanes. In fact, while you’re in the city, you can often see stylish jets in the sky throughout the day.

That said, you’ll likely want to fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), located in Fort Myers, which is roughly a 35-minute drive to Old Naples. The average price of a rideshare is roughly $50 or so, depending on the time of day. 

Is it easy to get around Naples?

Naples is certainly a very walkable town in most areas – especially near and around the bustling 5th Ave South. For those looking to rent a car, it’s also a driveable city without heavy traffic, and it has a decent number of both paid and free parking options. 

From personal experience, rideshares are your best bet for getting around, especially for short weekend getaways. Uber pick-up times are fast, with average waits of three to five minutes, and prices range from roughly $7–16 per ride.

Where to stay in Naples

The  AC Naples Marriott  opened its doors in 2023 and is a great option for a cozy yet luxurious stay. It’s just a five-minute drive to 5th Ave South, where you’ll find plenty of luxe boutiques and dining options. In the heart of Old Naples, this three-story property offers an intimate and boutique-like experience with excellent service, modern rooms, a rooftop pool and Mediterranean bar, Limón . A one-night stay will cost roughly $160–200.

If you’re looking for slightly more budget-friendly hotels during your stay, try the  Courtyard Naples (around $114–240 per night) or the  Residence Inn Naples (approximately $118–175 per night).

There are also plenty of lodging options for easy beach access, such as the  Naples Grande Beach Resort (roughly $197–235 per night) or the  Naples Bay Resort & Marina (around $190–219 per night.)

Top things to do in Naples 

Explore the picture-perfect beaches.

Southwest Florida's beaches are certainly worth the hype, with plenty of gorgeous white-sand stretches to choose from. My personal favorite in Naples is, hands-down,  Clam Pass Park . It’s free to access (except for a $10 parking fee) and open to the public daily from 8am until sunset. When you first arrive, you’ll need to walk down a three-quarter-mile wooden boardwalk, which is more easily covered on the free tram service. The 35-acre beach features plenty of marine life and coastal birds. There’s also no shortage of activities like nature walks and fishing.

Despite the slightly overpriced beach chairs and umbrellas, this family-friendly beach has calm, blue waters and some of the most beautifully glistening seashells scattered across the sands. There’s also a snack bar, restrooms, bike racks and foot showers. Be sure to bring your own towels, though, as there aren’t any available for the general public to rent; they’re reserved for guests staying at beachfront resorts.

Other popular beaches to visit include Vanderbilt Beach, Tigertail Beach and Marco Island Beach. If you’re looking for dog-friendly beaches, take your pup to Bonita Beach Dog Park, Gulfside City Park Beach and Lighthouse Beach Park. Various water-based activities to try at local beaches include parasailing, jet skiing and dolphin spotting.

Enjoy some off-the-beach activities

If you’re a nature lover, head to the Naples Botanical Gardens  to see rainforest plants, succulent displays and waterlily-laden pools in tropical-themed gardens. They also host regular kid-friendly events and have a restaurant with garden views called the Fogg Café.

Popular festivals throughout the year include the  Naples Seafood & Music Festival , the  Naples Craft Beer Fest and Naples Downtown Art Fair . 

Take a boat tour

If you’re looking for fun local boating experiences, La Gondola offers private tours in the heart of Naples on authentic Venetian gondolas – perfect for a romantic date night in the town. Another fun option is Naples Princess Cruises . You’ll want to book both in advance as they sell out quickly.  

Eat and drink at Naples’ top restaurants

Campiello: If there’s one spot that will make you mistake Naples, Florida, for its Italian namesake, it’s Campiello . This award-winning Italian restaurant features a rustic contemporary menu with wood-fired meats and pizzas – get the Margherita.

D'Amico’s Continental Naples: This upscale butcher steak house restaurant was ranked not only one of the best in Florida but also one of the best in the country – and rightfully so. Commonly known as The Continental , this spot has a menu full of premium steak, seafood and cocktail options, as well as an impressive 39-page wine list. 

Jane's Café on 3rd:  Included in nearly every Naples food guide and raved about by all the locals, the celebrated brunch spot Jane’s Café on 3rd  definitely lives up to the hype, from its “lobster smashed avocado Benedict” to its French toast.

Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar: If you’re looking for something more casual, Rocco’s Tacos is a great choice for tacos, birrias, quesadillas and taco burgers. For anyone traveling on a budget, it also has regular happy hours and Taco Tuesdays specials.

My favorite thing to do in Naples

As a cafe lover, I enjoy frequenting coffee shops everywhere I travel to enjoy a good cup of joe alongside the locals. Something about the ambiance and environment just makes me feel at home no matter where I am in the world.  EJ’s Bayfront Cafe  made for a simple yet lovely experience on a recent trip to Naples. 

There’s often a short wait to get in, but the menu is a brunch lover’s dream, and it's known for having some of the best comfort food in town. It's just steps away from the ocean and has plenty of outdoor seating. A fan favorite is the banana-stuffed French toast platter with thick-cut challah bread, stuffed with sliced bananas and rolled in cinnamon and sugar. The food arrives extremely fast, and the service is top-notch.

How much money do I need for Naples?

Despite Naples being one of the most affluent towns in America, travel accommodations are fairly reasonable – especially if you limit excursions. Shopping at local boutiques will set you back the most, especially along 5th Ave South. Food and drinks are fairly priced, and the majority of restaurants don't have additional service charges.

You could easily plan a two-night stay for under $1000, including a roundtrip non-stop flight from New York City, for example.

Average costs:

• Dinner for two: $80–215 (or more)
• Brunch for two: $60–90+
• Mid-range hotel off-peak, midweek in summer: $100–250+
• Beer/pint at the bar: $7–10
• Cocktail: $15–18
• Ice cream: $6–8

Mariya traveled to Naples on the invitation of Marriott Bonvoy. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

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