It's fair to say that Naples, Italy's third most populous city, has a somewhat mixed reputation, historically perceived as having a lower standard of living and higher crime rates than its more glamorous northern counterparts. However, Naples is increasingly known as a travel destination boasting some of the most authentic pizza restaurants, stunning architecture and fascinating natural surroundings.
But these natural conditions are causing problems: Naples sits close to volcanic calderas (large depressions formed by the collapse of volcanoes, of which Vesuvius is one), and has been hit by a series of earthquakes in recent days. The government has allocated €500 million to safety measures, including evacuations and strengthening buildings. Here's everything you need to know if you're booking a trip to Naples.
Is it safe to travel to Naples?
Travel is considered generally safe, but it's important to keep up to date with the latest advice from local authorities. Naples has felt the tremors in recent days, with the government evacuating hundreds of residents and prisoners from a women's prison in the seaside town of Pozzuoli and closing schools.
Red zones have been established for areas that must be evacuated in the event of an eruption, including the Naples regions of Chiaia and Vomero, as well as the towns of Pozzuoli and Bacoli. The rest of Naples is in the yellow zone, which means there is a risk of heavy ashfall in the event of an eruption.
What areas were affected by the earthquake?
The quake was recorded in Campi Flegrei, the crater of an active volcano and the largest in Europe, close to Mount Vesuvius and the Pompeii Archaeological Park.
While scientists consider an eruption here unlikely (there hasn't been one since 1538), Euronews reports that the 500,000 locals who live in the red zone areas (Chiaia, Vomero, Pozzuoli and Bacoli) are living in a state of “constant anxiety.”
How close was the earthquake to Naples?
The Phlegraean field is about 20 kilometers from Naples, which may seem quite close, but so far there have been no casualties or damage to properties in Naples.
What is the UK Foreign Office's latest advice?
The UK Foreign Office said: “Southern Italy is home to several active volcanoes. National emergency plans have been updated for Mt Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Field, which remains active and was the site of an earthquake in 2024.”
The company's “Safety and Security” page also says: “Many parts of Italy are on large seismic fault lines and small tremors and earthquakes occur frequently. Learn more about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.”
What rights do you have when you book a trip?
The UK Foreign Office has not explicitly advised against travelling to Italy, so you probably won't be able to cancel your travel plans without incurring penalties. It's best to contact your accommodation, airline or travel company before you travel to find out what you can do.
Has your flight to Naples been cancelled?
There are no reports of flights to Naples being cancelled, but to be on the safe side, check directly with your airline before travelling.
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