DK Travel : Naples & the Amalfi Coast : Naples: Toledo to Chiaia : Bars & Nightclubs

Aret’ a’ Palm

The name is Neapolitan for “behind the palm”, which is just where this bar is located, on a laid-back piazza. Crowds show up at this stylish spot for the mix of world music and jazzy sounds.
Around Midnight

This live jazz venue focuses on standards and classics most of the time, booking local performers from around Italy.
Baracdero

This bar captures the charm of the Santa Lucia quarter, immortalized in one of the most famous Neapolitan songs. By the water, near Castel dell’Ovo, it’s great for hanging out and enjoying the views.
Contatto

Attracting mostly 20-somethings, Thursday is gay night at this disco-pub, with a country & western theme. In summer, the terrace is a nice plus, although the location is rather out of the way.
Ex-ess

One of the ritziest clubs in town. The music tends towards house and other sophisticated electronic sounds.
Freezer

This ultra-modern discobar, northeast of Piazza Garibaldi, turns over-the-top gay once a week. It seems to attract every one of the city’s diverse gay residents, out for a good time.
Otto Jazz

A Neapolitan tradition for jazz enthusiasts, this club spotlights local musicians and more mainstream trends in jazz, with a dash of southern Italian folk music.
S’move

Another chic venue, but less pretentious. Although there’s no dance floor, the good selection of music keeps things moving.
Vibes

This bustling bar features live music late into the night at weekends. It’s also a café and a restaurant, with a tiny, inviting interior and seating outside in the square.
Virgilio Club

This semi-gay venue is quite serenely sophisticated, taking full advantage of the pine-scented setting on summer nights.