Focusing on Neapolitan art and history, this museum was formerly a Carthusian monastery. Since 1866, though, it has housed the San Martino collection, which features an entire section on nativity scenes, a historical section full of furniture, medallions and arms, and an area devoted to 19th century work, which is when the social consciousness began to seep into dramatic pieces by artists like Giacinto Gigante. The building itself is also worth a look, with marble cloisters, a graceful central nave, and a baroque church.

This is one of the most important archeological museums in the world and is a must for any visitor interested in art or history. The pieces are from the collection of Carlo di Borbone, who was a former King of Naples. Restoration is still ongoing and the extensive collection continues to expand. The Greek and Roman sculptures are particularly noteworthy (don't miss the dramatic Farnese Bull), as are the mosaics recovered from Pompeii.

This museum, in a history-laden palazzo, houses the art collection of Prince Filangieri. The museum is in a former palace, which is a classic example of Florentine Renaissance style, and the collection was donated to the city in 1888. After World War II, the collection expanded through private donations and now it features a far-reaching range of installations, including weapons, furniture, paintings, costumes and more.

This small museum has one of the most extensive international collections in the area, with plenty objects d'art and crafts from Japan and China. Sculptures, paintings, tapestries, artifacts, and more are on display.

Its central location is next to the imposing Castel Sant'Elmo and this is another museum that was formerly a monastery. The Museo Nazionale di San Martino offers a thorough look at both the art and the history of Naples, with displays delving into the changing government of the area, the cultural traditions of the people, and the work of the Neapolitan School of Painting.