Napoli Centrale is the main railway station of Naples, Italy, and a major transportation hub in Southern Italy. Located in Piazza Garibaldi, it serves as a crucial gateway connecting:

• High-speed rail (e.g., Frecciarossa, Italo) to major Italian cities.
• Regional and intercity trains across Campania and beyond.
• Local commuter lines like the Circumvesuviana (from the adjacent Garibaldi station, often considered part of the complex).
• The city's Metro Line 1 (Garibaldi) and Metro Line 2.

The station is a bustling, modern complex featuring numerous shops, restaurants, and services, reflecting its role as a vital connection point for millions of passengers annually.

Napoli Centrale is a major railway station and a vital transport hub in Naples, Italy. It's a complex, multi-level structure that integrates long-distance, regional, and local transport services.

Here's a breakdown of its layout:

Napoli Centrale Station Layout

Napoli Centrale is characterized by its large main hall (the Grande Galleria) and its seamless, though sometimes confusing, integration with various underground metro and commuter lines.

1. Street Level / Piazza Garibaldi

• Main Entrance: The station's primary entrance faces Piazza Garibaldi, a large, bustling square.
• Bus & Tram Stops: Numerous local bus and tram stops are directly outside the main station building.
• Taxi Stands: Designated taxi stands are available directly outside the main entrance.
• Alibus Stop: The Alibus, which connects to Naples International Airport, also stops in Piazza Garibaldi.
• Surrounding Area: The area around Piazza Garibaldi is very busy with shops, hotels, and street vendors.

2. Main Concourse (Ground Level) & High-Speed/Long-Distance Platforms

This is the heart of the station, located at ground level just beyond the main entrances.

• Grande Galleria: A magnificent, expansive concourse with a large glass and iron roof, dating back to the station's reconstruction.
• Ticket Offices:
  • Trenitalia: Main national railway operator, selling tickets for Frecciarossa, Intercity, and Regional trains.
  • Italo: Private high-speed rail operator, with its own ticket kiosks.
• Information Desks: Trenitalia and general station information.
• Shops & Services: A wide array of shops, cafes, fast-food restaurants, sit-down dining, pharmacies, newsstands, and ATMs.
• Waiting Areas: Various seating areas, some with charging points.
• Restrooms: Available, often with a small fee.
• Left Luggage (Deposito Bagagli): A facility for storing bags, usually located at one end of the concourse.
• Police Station (Polizia Ferroviaria): Railway police presence.
• Platforms (Binari):
  • The main platforms (typically numbered 1-25) for high-speed (Frecciarossa, Italo) and long-distance/intercity trains are located at this level.
  • These are terminus platforms, meaning the tracks end at the concourse, requiring trains to reverse direction to leave the station if continuing further.
  • Accessed directly from the main concourse, making transfers relatively easy if staying on this level.

3. Mezzanine / Upper Levels

• Accessed via escalators and lifts from the main concourse.
• May house additional shops, offices, airline ticket offices, or specific lounges (e.g., Freccialounge for Frecciarossa passengers).
• Generally less critical for direct passenger flow to platforms.

4. Underground Levels (Stazione di Napoli Garibaldi / Piazza Garibaldi)

This is where the station becomes a true multi-modal hub, often referred to as "Piazza Garibaldi" or "Napoli Garibaldi" for the metro and commuter lines, distinguishing them from the main "Napoli Centrale" for long-distance trains, though they are physically integrated. Access is via escalators and lifts from the main concourse.

• Metro Line 2 (Napoli Garibaldi - Trenitalia):
  • Located at a shallower underground level.
  • Operated by Trenitalia (part of the national rail network, using regional trains).
  • Connects to other key railway stations in Naples (e.g., Amedeo, Mergellina) and destinations like Pozzuoli.
  • Tickets are usually Trenitalia regional tickets.
• Metro Line 1 (Piazza Garibaldi - ANM):
  • A deeper underground metro line, operated by ANM (Naples city transport company).
  • Connects to major city attractions like Museo (National Archaeological Museum), Dante, Toledo, and Università.
  • Has its own distinct entrances/exits, often marked by "ANM" or "Metro 1" signs, but accessible from within the main station complex.
  • Requires separate ANM tickets (or integrated tickets like Unico Campania).
• Circumvesuviana (Stazione di Napoli Garibaldi - EAV):
  • Located beneath the main station, typically accessed via a long passage or separate entrance area within the underground complex.
  • Operated by EAV (Ente Autonomo Volturno), an entirely separate company from Trenitalia or ANM.
  • Crucial for reaching popular tourist destinations like Pompeii Scavi, Herculaneum (Ercolano Scavi), and Sorrento.
  • Requires separate EAV tickets, which are distinct from Trenitalia or ANM tickets.
  • Can be confusing due to being a separate, bustling station environment.

Accessibility

• Generally Good: The main concourse and high-speed platforms are well-equipped with ramps, lifts, and escalators.
• Connecting Levels: Lifts and escalators connect all major levels, including the various underground metro and commuter lines.
• Assistance: Trenitalia offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (Sala Blu service).
• Older Sections: Some older parts of the station or transitions to specific local lines might be less accessible, but efforts have been made to improve this.

Tips for Navigating

• Departure Boards: Pay close attention to the electronic departure boards (Partenze) for your train number and platform (Binario). Platforms are usually displayed about 15-20 minutes before departure.
• Signage: Follow the signs carefully, especially when transitioning to Metro Line 1, Metro Line 2, or the Circumvesuviana, as they are operated by different companies.
• Validate Tickets: For regional trains and the Circumvesuviana, always validate your paper ticket in the green/yellow machines before boarding.
• Be Aware: Napoli Centrale, like any major city station, can be very busy. Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Piazza Garibaldi and the Circumvesuviana station.
• Allow Time: If you have connections or are unfamiliar with the station, allow ample time, especially when transferring between different transport operators.

Services & Amenities

• Ticketing Services:
  • Trenitalia Ticket Office (for regional, intercity, and high-speed Frecce trains)
  • Italo Ticket Office (for high-speed private rail services)
  • Self-service Ticket Machines (Trenitalia and Italo)
  • International Ticket Office (for cross-border travel)
• Customer Assistance & Information:
  • Information Desks (Trenitalia, Italo, general station info)
  • Digital Information Screens (train arrivals, departures, platform numbers)
  • Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (Sala Blu / Blue Room service for pre-booked assistance)
• Luggage Services:
  • Left Luggage / Baggage Storage (Deposito Bagagli)
  • Luggage Trolleys
• Connectivity:
  • Free Wi-Fi (usually "Wifi Station" or similar network)
  • Charging Stations / Power Outlets (available in some waiting areas or cafes)
• Financial Services:
  • ATMs (Bancomat)
  • Currency Exchange Offices
• Security & Safety:
  • Railway Police (Polizia Ferroviaria) station
  • Station Security Personnel
  • CCTV Surveillance
  • First Aid Point
  • Lost & Found Office (Ufficio Oggetti Smarriti)
• Shopping & Retail:
  • Variety of shops including fashion, accessories, electronics, gifts, souvenirs
  • Newsstands & Bookshops
  • Convenience Stores / Minimarket
  • Pharmacy
• Food & Beverage:
  • Numerous Cafes, Bars, Pasticcerias (pastry shops)
  • Restaurants (including pizzerias, traditional Italian, and international cuisine)
  • Fast Food outlets
  • Snack Bars
• Accessibility Services:
  • Accessible Restrooms
  • Ramps and Lifts for easy movement between levels and platforms
  • Tactile paths for visually impaired passengers
• Other Services:
  • Tourist Information Point (sometimes available, offering maps and local info)
  • Car Rental Offices (typically located within or adjacent to the station)
  • Taxi Rank (outside the main entrance)
  • Access to Public Transport (Metro Line 1 and Line 2, buses, Circumvesuviana railway)

Facilities

• Platforms:
  • Multiple platforms for regional, intercity, and high-speed trains.
• Waiting Areas:
  • General Waiting Rooms
  • Executive Lounges (e.g., Freccialounge for specific Trenitalia ticket holders, Italounge for Italo passengers)
• Restrooms:
  • Public Toilets (often pay-to-use, well-maintained)
• Retail Gallery / Commercial Areas:
  • The station features a multi-level shopping arcade (Galleria Commerciale) with a wide array of stores and eateries.
• Vertical Circulation:
  • Escalators
  • Elevators/Lifts
  • Travelators (moving walkways)
• Parking:
  • Underground Parking Garage (e.g., Metropark parking) with direct access to the station.
• Connection to Other Transport Modes:
  • Integrated access to Naples Metro Line 1 (Piazza Garibaldi station) and Line 2 (Napoli Centrale station).
  • Direct access to the Circumvesuviana railway for Sorrento, Pompeii, and Herculaneum.
  • Bus stops for urban and extra-urban routes immediately outside.

Office Hours Information - Napoli Centrale

Please Note: Hours are subject to change, especially on public holidays or due to unforeseen circumstances. Always verify the latest information with official sources or directly at the station upon arrival. The times below are general estimates.

1. Trenitalia Ticket Office (Biglietteria Trenitalia)

• Location: Ground floor, main hall.
• Typical Hours:
  • Daily: Approximately 05:00 / 06:00 to 22:00 / 23:00
• Services: National and regional train tickets, season passes, reservations, information.
• Self-Service Machines: Available 24/7 throughout the station for ticket purchases (accepts cash and card).

2. Italo Ticket Office (Biglietteria Italo)

• Location: Often near the Italo high-speed platforms or a dedicated area in the main hall.
• Typical Hours:
  • Daily: Approximately 06:00 / 07:00 to 21:00 / 22:00
• Services: Italo high-speed train tickets, reservations, information.
• Self-Service Machines: Available for Italo tickets.

3. Left Luggage / Luggage Storage (Deposito Bagagli - KiPoint)

• Operator: Usually KiPoint
• Location: Well-signposted, often on the lower level or a dedicated area within the station. Follow "Deposito Bagagli" signs.
• Typical Hours:
  • Daily: Approximately 07:00 / 08:00 to 21:00 / 22:00
• Services: Secure storage for bags and luggage (hourly/daily rates apply).

4. Information Desk (Ufficio Informazioni)

• Location: Main hall.
• Typical Hours:
  • Daily: Approximately 06:00 / 07:00 to 21:00 / 22:00 (Often aligns with main ticket office hours)
• Services: General station information, train schedules, platform numbers, local transport advice.

5. Lost & Found (Ufficio Oggetti Smarriti)

• Location: Often in a separate office, sometimes requiring inquiry at the main information desk for directions.
• Typical Hours:
  • Monday - Friday: Approximately 09:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 16:00
  • Saturday: Limited hours, e.g., 09:00 - 12:00
  • Sunday & Public Holidays: Often Closed
• Services: Handling of items lost within the station premises. For items lost on trains, contact the specific train operator (Trenitalia or Italo).

Landmarks Near Napoli Centrale

Immediately Around Napoli Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi)

• Piazza Garibaldi: The square itself is a major hub. While often bustling and chaotic, it's been redeveloped and features modern architecture, access to the metro, and various shops and eateries. It's your gateway to the rest of the city.
• Mercato di Porta Nolana: Just a short walk from the station towards the historic gate. This lively, authentic street market offers a glimpse into local life, fresh produce, seafood, and various goods. Great for street photography and experiencing local culture.
• Porta Capuana & Castel Capuano: A beautiful historic city gate and a former Aragonese castle (now a courthouse), marking the eastern edge of the historic center. It's an impressive sight and just a 5-10 minute walk from the station.
• Basilica Santuario del Carmine Maggiore: A significant church known for its history and association with Masaniello's revolt. It's a short walk south from the station, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the urban bustle.

Short Walk / 1-2 Metro Stops (Line 1 or 2)

• Historic Centre (Centro Storico): (15-20 min walk or 1-2 metro stops: Garibaldi to Cavour/Museo or Dante)
  • Via San Gregorio Armeno: Famous "Christmas Alley" where artisan workshops create nativity scenes (presepi) year-round. A must-visit, especially during the holiday season.
  • Duomo di Napoli (Naples Cathedral): Home to the revered relic of San Gennaro's blood. A grand and historically significant cathedral.
  • Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples): Various entrances around the historic center (e.g., near Piazza San Gaetano). Explore the ancient Roman aqueducts, Greek hypogea, and WWII air-raid shelters deep beneath the city.
  • Spaccanapoli: The literal "Naples Splitter," a long, straight street that perfectly bisects the historic center. Wander its alleys, discover hidden churches, local eateries, and vibrant street life.
  • Cappella Sansevero: (A bit further into the historic center, 20-25 min walk or short metro + walk) Home to the breathtaking "Veiled Christ" sculpture by Giuseppe Sanmartino. A true masterpiece of art.
• Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (MANN): (2 metro stops: Garibaldi to Museo on Line 1) One of the world's most important archaeological museums, housing an unparalleled collection of artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other Roman sites, as well as significant Greek and Egyptian collections.
• Piazza Cavour: A large, historic square connecting the Archaeological Museum area to the Historic Centre.
• Toledo Metro Station: (4 metro stops: Garibaldi to Toledo on Line 1) Widely considered one of Europe's most beautiful metro stations, an architectural marvel with stunning light installations and mosaics. Worth visiting even if just to see the station itself.

Day Trips / Departures from Napoli Centrale (Garibaldi Station)

• Pompeii & Herculaneum: (Circumvesuviana train, lower level of Garibaldi Station)
  • Pompeii Scavi: The famous ancient Roman city preserved by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius. An absolute must-see.
  • Herculaneum (Ercolano Scavi): Another remarkably preserved Roman town, often considered even better preserved than Pompeii in some aspects, due to a different type of volcanic flow.
• Mount Vesuvius: (Take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi, then local bus/taxi to the crater entrance). Hike to the crater of the volcano that famously destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Sorrento & Amalfi Coast: (Circumvesuviana train from Garibaldi Station to Sorrento, then connect to local buses/ferries for Amalfi, Positano, Ravello). Napoli Centrale is the departure point for exploring these stunning coastal towns.

Tip: For most city center attractions, Metro Line 1 (the "Art Line") is incredibly convenient from Garibaldi Station.