Naples, cinema and TV series: locations few know about

Naples cinema and Naples TV series aren't just Google search terms, but a living reality that tells the story of the city through the eyes of international directors, screenwriters, and film crews. In recent years, Naples has established itself as one of Italy's most sought-after cities for film and television sets, thanks to an urban landscape rich in history, contrasts, and unique atmospheres that transcend the typical tourist sights.

Naples, the capital of film sets: numbers, projects, and productions

The Neapolitan city has experienced a veritable production boom: in the first few months of 2025 alone, Naples hosted 43 audiovisual projects, including films, TV series, and documentaries shot in the historic center, waterfront, and city neighborhoods.

This excitement is no coincidence. The combination of Mediterranean light, historic architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods has led Italian and foreign directors to consider Naples a natural stage for a variety of stories, from comedy to drama to fiction. The commitment of the Campania Region Film Commission and the Municipality's Cinema Office has streamlined permits and attracted productions with logistical support and financial incentives.

Not just Italian productions: some international series set here, such as My Brilliant Friend, have transformed parts of the city into urban sets rich with narrative detail, involving historic squares, churches, and less-traveled streets.

Famous locations and hidden corners of the city on the screen

When discussing Naples' cinema and TV series, iconic locations like Spaccanapoli, Lungomare Caracciolo, and the Rione Sanità inevitably come to mind. However, there are often overlooked spots that have served as backdrops for memorable scenes or acclaimed productions.

Squares, neighborhoods and “invisible” sets

• Piazza Mercato and Largo San Marcellino hosted the filming of My Brilliant Friend 4, enhancing the historic center with period details and narrative setting.
• Via Materdei and its historic Neapolitan pizzerias have appeared in classic films like The Gold of Naples, a nod to Italy's cinematic heritage.
• The alleyways between the Decumani become protagonists in the Mare Fuori series, a place of everyday life and urban memory.
• Troisi Stairs, dedicated to director Massimo Troisi, were the setting for Scusate il ritardo and are now a cult place for film buffs.

Films and documentaries that tell other faces of the city

There is no shortage of original film productions that choose Naples as the absolute protagonist:

• These Ghosts! (2024), directed by Alessandro Gassmann, was filmed in the heart of the historic center, with scenes set in the Palazzo dello Spagnuolo in the Rione Sanità.
• Hotspot – Love without a Net (2023), a comedy filmed between Naples and the Amalfi Coast, includes numerous glimpses of the city and the Teatro San Carlo.
• Some productions, such as Ferzan Özpetek’s Naples in Veils, use less “obvious” locations, such as Palazzo Mannajuolo with its dramatic art deco staircase and Piazza del Gesù, as well as stretches of the Posillipo sea and urban archaeology for key scenes.

From the real city to the sets: itineraries to explore Naples through the eyes of a film buff.

Film and TV series lovers can turn their visit to Naples into a true film set tour, discovering lesser-known locations rich in narrative charm.

Routes off the beaten track

• Rione Sanità: in addition to famous places, the neighborhood offers alleys and small squares that have been real-life sets or a source of inspiration for drama series.
• Bagnoli Pier and the secondary streets of the Decumani: perfect for reliving the Mare Fuori scene and immersing yourself in the authentic colors and sounds of the city.
• Hidden historic center: squares like Mercato or side streets used for period settings reveal a less touristy but equally evocative side.

For those who really want to follow in the footsteps of their favorite films or series, there are also apps like NapoliMovieTour that help you trace cinematic itineraries, with maps, scene details and references to the sets scattered around the city.