Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Guided Walking-Tour

Uncover the captivating history of Naples on this guided walking tour that takes you through the city’s iconic sites and the fascinating Bourbon Tunnel. Explore Spaccanapoli, San Domenico Maggiore, and the Santa Chiara Basilica before descending underground to witness the hidden passageway that once served as a royal escape route. Led by a certified guide, this 3-hour journey offers a unique glimpse into Naples’ royal heritage, providing insights that are sure to pique the interest of history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. With both Italian and English-language options available, this tour promises an enriching experience that…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Guided Tours In Naples.

Key Points

• This 3-hour guided walking tour covers the royal monumental area of Naples, including Spaccanapoli, San Domenico Maggiore, and Santa Chiara Basilica.
• The tour features a descent into the Bourbon Tunnel, an underground passageway from 1853 that served as an air-raid shelter during World War II.
• The tour is led by a certified guide who provides valuable insights into the rich history and culture of Naples.
• The tour includes entrance fees for the Bourbon Tunnel and access to significant historical landmarks, such as Castel Nuovo, San Carlo Theatre, and Piazza del Plebiscito.
• The tour is available in both Italian and English, catering to diverse audiences, and starts from KČ2,131 per person.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

What does the Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel guided walking tour entail?

This 3-hour tour takes visitors to the royal monumental area of Naples. Participants will explore Spaccanapoli street, visit churches like San Domenico Maggiore and Santa Chiara Basilica, and see landmarks such as Via Toledo, Galleria Umberto I, Castel Nuovo, San Carlo Theatre, Royal Palace, and Piazza del Plebiscito.

The tour also includes a descent into the Bourbon Tunnel, an underground passageway commissioned in 1853 to connect the Royal Palace with the sea.

Offered in Italian and English, the tour costs from Kč2,131 per person and features a certified guide. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the royal monumental area of Naples.

Guests will stroll along the historic Spaccanapoli street and explore the stunning San Domenico Maggiore Church and Santa Chiara Basilica.

The tour also includes visits to iconic sites such as:

1. Via Toledo, a bustling thoroughfare lined with upscale shops and cafes.
2. Galleria Umberto I, an elegant 19th-century shopping arcade.
3. Castel Nuovo, a majestic castle, the San Carlo Theatre, the Royal Palace, and the picturesque Piazza del Plebiscito.

Bourbon Tunnel Details

Commissioned by Ferdinand II of Bourbon in 1853, the Bourbon Tunnel was built to connect the Royal Palace with the sea.

However, the project encountered difficulties due to the presence of ancient aqueduct cisterns beneath the city. Despite these challenges, the tunnel was eventually completed and served as an air-raid shelter during World War II.

Today, the Bourbon Tunnel stands as a testament to Naples’ rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into over 200 years of the city’s past.

With its winding corridors and captivating anecdotes, the tunnel provides a unique and immersive experience for those interested in exploring the underground secrets of this remarkable Italian city.

Inclusions

While exploring the rich history of Naples, the Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Tour includes several key elements to enhance the experience.

First and foremost, the tour is led by a certified guide, providing valuable insights and context throughout the journey.

Plus, the tour includes the entrance fee for the Bourbon Tunnel, allowing visitors to descend into this fascinating underground structure and uncover its storied past.

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Customer Feedback

Consistently, the Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Tour receives glowing reviews from satisfied customers.

Based on a single review, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5. A customer named Marco from Italy praised the tour as "well-studied, interesting, and engaging," particularly highlighting the knowledgeable guide, Gianluca.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with claustrophobia due to the exploration of the Bourbon Tunnel, an underground passage commissioned in 1853.

Starting Location

The Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Tour starts at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a centrally located square in the heart of Naples.

This picturesque plaza features several notable landmarks, including the Church of Gesù Nuovo, a 15th-century Renaissance structure with an ornate facade.

The starting point is convenient for participants, as it allows easy access to the tour’s key sites, such as:

1. Spaccanapoli, the famous narrow street that slices through the historic city center.
2. San Domenico Maggiore Church, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate architectural details.
3. Via Toledo, a bustling commercial avenue leading to the iconic Galleria Umberto I.

From this central location, the guided walking tour efficiently navigates the royal monumental area of Naples, providing an immersive experience of the city’s rich history and culture.

Duration and Languages

The Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Tour lasts 3 hours, providing ample time for participants to explore the historic sites and descend into the captivating Bourbon Tunnel.

The tour is offered in both Italian and English, catering to a diverse audience. This ensures that visitors from around the world can fully enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of Naples.

Whether you’re fluent in Italian or prefer English, this guided excursion offers a seamless and engaging experience, allowing you to explore the city’s past and uncover its hidden gems.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Royal Naples and Bourbon Tunnel Tour is priced from Kč2,131 per person.

This comprehensive 3-hour walking tour includes the following:

1. Entrance fee for the Bourbon Tunnel, which costs €10 per person.
2. Services of a certified guide who’ll lead you through the royal monumental area of Naples, Spaccanapoli street, and the underground Bourbon Tunnel.
3. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to receive a full refund if your plans change.

The tour also offers the convenience of a reserve now, pay later option, enabling you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Explore the rich history and hidden gems of Naples at your own pace on this immersive guided experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Tour?

The best time of day to take the tour is typically in the morning or early afternoon, when the weather is milder and crowds are smaller. Avoiding the hottest part of the day can make the experience more pleasant.

Can We Stop for a Break During the Tour?

The tour allows for breaks during the 3-hour duration. Guests can take short stops to rest or explore the sites along the route at their own pace. The guide is flexible and accommodating to the group’s needs.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as it involves descending into the underground Bourbon Tunnel. However, visitors with mobility issues can still enjoy the above-ground portion of the tour and explore the royal monumental area of Naples.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Bourbon Tunnel?

Visitors can take photos inside the Bourbon Tunnel, but they should be mindful not to use flash photography as it may disturb the tunnel’s atmosphere. The guide will provide instructions on appropriate photography during the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. Children are welcome to join the guided walk through the Bourbon Tunnel and explore the historical site. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the underground environment.

Recap

This guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Naples’ rich royal heritage. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, then venture underground into the captivating Bourbon Tunnel, gaining insight into the city’s storied past. With options in both Italian and English, the tour caters to history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, providing an immersive and informative experience in the heart of Naples.

You can check if your dates are available here: