Pedamentina San Martino in Naples

The most fascinating walking route between Vomero and the historic center

Where is the Pedamentina di San Martino located?

In the heart of Naples, there are places that seem to have escaped time. The Pedamentina San Martino is one of them.

It is a historic stairway that connects the Vomero hill with the city’s historic center, extending along the slope that descends from the Certosa and Museum of San Martino complex toward the Montesanto neighborhood.

Over four hundred steps immersed in gardens, tuff walls, terraces, and panoramic views allow you to observe Naples from an unusual perspective. Not the one pictured on postcards. A more authentic Naples, made of sudden silences, the scent of aromatic plants, and views that suddenly open up over the Gulf.

Tourists who love walking will find the Pedamentina one of the most surprising experiences in the entire city.

How to reach the Pedamentina of San Martino

The most popular starting point is located next to the Certosa and Museum of San Martino and Castel Sant’Elmo, on the Vomero hill.

To reach the start of the steps, you can take the Central Funicular or the Montesanto Funicular, getting off near the Certosa. From there, simply follow the signs for San Martino and reach the entrance that marks the start of the route.

The classic route includes the descent towards Montesanto, a choice that allows you to enjoy the views without the strenuous climb.

The entire route generally takes between forty minutes and an hour, depending on photo stops. Comfortable shoes and light clothing are recommended, although the walk downhill can be strenuous.

When to visit the Pedamentina

The Pedamentina changes appearance throughout the seasons.

Spring and autumn days are probably the best time to hike it. The temperatures are pleasant, the light enhances the tuff rock, and the sea in the background takes on particularly intense hues.

Summer remains an option, but it’s best to choose early morning or late afternoon. The sun, especially along the most exposed stretches, can be scorching.

The most evocative moment often comes just before sunset. Shadows lengthen on the steps, Vesuvius becomes a dark silhouette, and Naples slowly lights up. It’s at that moment that you understand why so many photographers consider this spot one of the most captivating panoramic views of the city.

A brief history

The history of the Pedamentina dates back to the 14th century.

The steps were built during the Angevin period to allow faster connections between the monastery of San Martino, the fortress now known as Castel Sant’Elmo, and the city below.

For centuries, they were a crucial communication route. Monks, farmers, soldiers, and residents of the working-class neighborhoods used them daily to travel between the hill and the city center.

Naples was very different from what it is today. There were no funiculars, cars, or elevators. The stairs were actual streets, traversed daily by people and goods.

Even today, walking along these steps, now eroded by time, you can sense something of that past life.

Curiosity about the Pedamentina di San Martino

Among the most interesting facts is the number of steps. Although sources differ, the route has over four hundred steps distributed along a route that is over a kilometer long.

Many Neapolitans consider it a natural gym. Runners, urban hikers, and city trekking enthusiasts regularly use it for training.

In recent years, the Pedamentina has also become the focus of cultural initiatives, guided tours, and walks dedicated to discovering the lesser-known Naples.

There’s no shortage of urban gardens, small private gardens and hidden terraces overlooking the city. Just slow down. Naples, in these parts, loves to show itself without haste.

And there’s one detail that always strikes those who walk it for the first time: the silence. Just a few minutes from Spaccanapoli and Via Toledo, the noise of traffic seems to fade away. Only the wind, a few distant voices, and the sound of your own footsteps on the steps remain.

How to reach the Pedamentina from Hotel Il Convento

For those staying at Hotel Il Convento, the Pedamentina San Martino is easily accessible on foot.

Leaving the hotel, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Spanish Quarter, just a few meters from Via Toledo. From here, you can take the Pedamentina San Martino climb via the path that leads to the San Martino area, or take the nearby Central Funicular and quickly reach Vomero.

The most pleasant option is to take the funicular to the upper station, visit the Certosa and Castel Sant’Elmo and then begin the descent along the Pedamentina to Montesanto.

Once you reach the neighborhood, it's just a few minutes' walk back to Via Toledo and back to the Hotel Il Convento.

It is a perfect half-day itinerary. Extraordinary views, history, photography, and the sensation, rare in Naples, of traversing the city at the slow pace of your own footsteps. Nothing else is needed.