What to buy in Naples: a guide to the best typical Neapolitan souvenirs and handicrafts

Naples is one of Italy’s richest cities in terms of tradition, art and popular culture. But as well as being an open-air museum, it is also a true craft shopping capital, with a wide and varied offer ranging from food to artistic artefacts, from textiles to jewellery. If you are planning a visit and wondering what to buy in Naples, this guide will help you discover the best typical Neapolitan souvenirs, perfect for taking home an authentic souvenir or making an original gift.

1. Coral and cameo jewellery: the refinement of traditional craftsmanship

Among the best known Neapolitan handicrafts are coral and cameo jewellery, worked using traditional techniques handed down through generations. Red Mediterranean coral, together with mother-of-pearl and shell, is sculpted by hand to create necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets and even small decorative objects. Each piece is unique and carries with it the charm of the sea and history.

Torre del Greco, a town on the slopes of Vesuvius, is the most renowned centre for coral processing and is home to workshops and workshops that have been producing jewellery of the highest quality for centuries. Alternatively, handicraft creations can also be found in the historical centre of Naples, especially in the Borgo Orefici area, which has always been the beating heart of the city’s goldsmiths.

2. Ceramics, porcelain and majolica: colour and tradition

If you love decorative art, you cannot miss the opportunity to buy Neapolitan ceramics and majolica. Campania has a very long tradition of ceramics, the roots of which go back to the Middle Ages. Capodimonte porcelain, world-famous for its delicacy and refinement, is among the most sought-after products.

Next to these, the majolica from Vietri sul Mare, with its lively and colourful motifs, is a perfect choice for those looking for a typical southern Italian piece of furniture. Among the most frequent subjects are lemons, flowers, coastal landscapes and scenes of popular life. Also popular are the Pulcinella masks, busts of Totò and San Gennaro, symbols of Neapolitan culture.

3. Lucky horn: the curniciello against the evil eye

One of the most famous and recognisable symbols of Naples is undoubtedly the lucky horn, also known as the curniciello. This small amulet, often red in colour, has ancient origins and is believed to protect against the evil eye and bring good luck. Its shape resembles that of a chilli pepper or a phallus, a symbol of virility and prosperity since Greek and Roman times.

Today, it can be found in all shapes and materials: from simple plastic horns sold in street markets to those made of enamelled ceramic or precious handcrafted coral. The craft workshops in the historic centre of Naples are the ideal place to buy an authentic one, perhaps customised according to local tradition.

4. Neapolitan shepherds and nativity scenes: the art of the Nativity

An absolutely unique souvenir to buy in Naples is a handmade nativity scene. The Neapolitan nativity tradition dates back to the 18th century and represents one of the highest expressions of Neapolitan creativity and artistry. The Nativity scenes are set in 18th-century Naples, with meticulously reproduced characters, crafts and settings.

In the famous historical centre of Naples, in Via San Gregorio Armeno – just a stone’s throw from Napoli Sotterranea – there are numerous workshops producing handmade shepherds in terracotta, wood or resin. In recent decades, statuettes depicting contemporary personalities from the worlds of sport, politics and entertainment have appeared alongside classical characters such as the Holy Family, the Magi and peasants. Each piece is a small masterpiece, often customisable on request.

5. The cuccumella and Neapolitan coffee: a ritual to take home

Naples is known for its long and deep coffee tradition. A typical item to buy is the cuccumella, the traditional Neapolitan aluminium coffee pot. Unlike the moka, coffee is prepared by decanting, turning the cuccumella upside down during brewing, according to a ritual that was once part of everyday Neapolitan life.

To complete the experience, you can combine the coffee pot with a packet of ground Neapolitan coffee, available from several local roasters. Historical brands offer blends with an intense and full-bodied flavour, ideal for recreating at home the authentic aroma and taste of a coffee drunk in the alleys of Naples.

6. Neapolitan tailoring and fashion: tailor-made elegance

Neapolitan tailoring is world-famous for its quality, impeccable cut and craftsmanship. Among the most elegant and practical souvenirs to buy are handmade ties, made with fine silks and exclusive designs. These are refined accessories, symbols of the classic Neapolitan style, also perfect as gift ideas.

In addition to ties, custom-made shirts, hats, leather gloves and handmade knitwear can be found in some specialised boutiques and ateliers. All Neapolitan tailoring products are united by extreme attention to detail and an unmistakable style.

7. Typical wines and liqueurs: authentic flavours of Campania

For those who prefer gastronomic souvenirs, Naples offers a wide choice of local wines and spirits. Campania is a region with a long wine-growing tradition, and the best known wines include Aglianico, Piedirosso, Falanghina and Greco di Tufo.

Typical liqueurs are also widespread: Limoncello, made with Amalfi or Sorrento lemons, is the most famous. But there are equally tasty variants such as mandarin liqueur, wild fennel liqueur or wild strawberry liqueur. Not to be forgotten is Nocillo (or Nocino), a walnut-based digestive, produced according to an ancient home-made tradition widespread throughout the region.

Enjoy a journey through craftsmanship and tradition

Naples is much more than a tourist destination: it is a place where every object tells a story. Shopping in Naples means immersing yourself in a living, deep, authentic culture. From precious handicrafts to the flavours of the table, via popular symbols and religious icons, every souvenir encapsulates the soul of the city.

Whether you want to take with you a small lucky charm, a fashion accessory, a work of art or a gastronomic speciality, Naples is sure to offer something unique and unrepeatable.