Buildings and bay in Naples

The Internet Says Naples, Italy Is Dirty And Dangerous. But Is It True?

By Nicole Cord-Cruz

VACATIONS

Naples, one of Italy's hottest tourist spots, has the unfortunate reputation of being one of the dirtiest and most dangerous cities in the world. However, this isn't entirely true.
The European Commission's 2023 Quality of Life in European Cities report scores Naples low in terms of safety and cleanliness. Only 25% of locals think the city is decently clean.
The city's dangerous rep mainly stems from its long-standing association with the notorious Camorra mafia, which still has a heavy influence over the city to this day.
Camorra also once managed the city's garbage system, allowing piles of trash and toxic waste to accumulate. However, Naples is slowly shedding its reputation as a city to avoid.
"At no point have I felt unsafe, and there's a character to this place that's unlike anywhere else I've been. It's lively, loud, and proud," one Reddit user raved about the city.
Naples sits at 51 in Numbeo's Crime Index, meaning it's safer than many American cities. It also has stunning architecture and delicious cuisine worth experiencing as a tourist.