Tour Details
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
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- San Domenico Maggiore
- Cappella Sansevero
- Artisans Workshops
Photos & Highlights
- Visit with local artisans and learn about the traditional craft of crèche before warming up with a seasonal treat
- Visit Giuseppe Sammartino's Veiled Christ in the Chapel of Sansevero and learn about the Neapolitan architecture of San Domenico Maggiore with a local expert
Tour Description
Neapolitans have always considered Christmas the most important holiday of the year. So, with an expert by your side, prepare to step beyond the traditional tourist stops to gain a unique glimpse into Naples' rich seasonal traditions, from the elaborate nativity scenes to the seasonal dishes that inspire warmth and connection.
Begin at the church of San Domenico Maggiore, a great example of Neapolitan Gothic and Renaissance art, before moving on to the Chapel of Sansevero, where your expert will relay the special history behind Giuseppe Sammartino's Veiled Christ, an incredible example of artistic and religious expression that transcends the physicality of marble.
After this aperitivo of high art, dive into the lively streets of Naples where local handicrafts—specifically the production of crèche—are on display. Nativity scenes, called presepe, can be found at every turn. Your guide will share the history and symbolism behind the presepe as you explore the streets where small holiday figurines are sold and made. Stop to meet a local artisan and learn about the history and intricate technique of crèche making. As you engage with the local artisans and hear their stories, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and devotion that define a Neapolitan Christmas.
End at a small enoteca where you’ll taste Christmas specialties like taralli, casatiello, sfogliatelle, and babà al limoncello and, of course, have a glass of Christmas cheer. Here, your guide leaves you with a richer understanding of Naples, its holiday traditions, and the personal connections that make this season so special.
- You’d like to explore the intricate craftsmanship behind the world-famous Neapolitan nativity scenes and engage directly with local artisans.
- You’d love to hear captivating stories about Naples' Christmas customs from a local expert who brings history to life.
- You want to dive into a centuries-old tradition that goes beyond surface-level tourism and into the heart of Neapolitan life.
- You’re interested in trying a few traditional holiday treats at a local enoteca, where you can connect with your guide and ask questions about the history of Christmas in Naples.
This tour includes exterior visits to historical streets and an interior visit to the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore.
Be prepared for walking through busy streets, especially around the Christmas markets.
Additional Trip-Planning Resources
A few things that pair well with this tour:
- Comfortable and warm walking shoes
- A roomy canvas bag to hold any wares you might purchase from local vendors
- A sketchpad to jot down inspiring scenes
Do the tastings replace a full meal?
No, tastings included in this tour do not replace a full meal.
Are there dress requirements for entering the churches?
Dresses or shorts must be below the knee, and shoulders should be covered. Jackets and scarf coverings are acceptable.
Am I allowed to take photos inside?
It is not permitted to take photographs or video recordings inside the Sansevero Chapel.
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Is this tour wheelchair-friendly?
Wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility can visit the entire nave area of the Sansevero Chapel, which houses, among other works, the Veiled Christ, and the sacristy/bookshop. Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the Underground Chamber, as access to this space is via a narrow historical spiral staircase. San Domenico Maggiore is not wheelchair accessible.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where You'll Start
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3 Reviews
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Highly recommended tour and guide. We especially enjoyed the visit to San Severo Chapel. Our guide was kind enough to bring along some gluten-free Neopolitan Christmas specialty pastries for my GF spouse.
Rosemary
Dec 6, 2024
Fiorella was wonderful showing us many artistic and wonderful sites we would not have seen on our own. She was a terrific resource and promoter of all the must see and do sites of Naples.
Catherine
Jan 14, 2024
The best guide I have ever had. Fiorella knew everything about everything!!
Catherine
Dec 30, 2023
