Understanding how to get around Naples is an important part of planning your trip. While the city is known for its relaxed pace and easygoing coastal atmosphere, transportation can feel very different depending on where you stay and how you plan to spend your days.

This guide answers the most common questions travelers ask about getting around Naples, helping you decide whether you’ll need a car, which neighborhoods are easiest to navigate, and what to expect once you arrive.

Quick Answer: Do You Need a Car in Naples, Florida?

Most visitors do benefit from having a car in Naples, especially if they plan to explore different neighborhoods, visit beaches outside their immediate area, or stay outside of downtown. Travelers staying in walkable areas like Old Naples can get by with limited driving for shorter trips, but a car adds flexibility for most itineraries.

Is Naples Walkable for Visitors?

Naples can be walkable — but only in select areas.

• Old Naples is the most walkable neighborhood, with restaurants, shops, beaches, and attractions clustered close together
• Other areas, including North Naples and Park Shore, are more spread out and typically require driving

If walkability is a priority, choosing the right neighborhood matters more than anything else.

Which Naples Neighborhoods Are Easiest Without a Car?

Travelers who want to minimize driving should focus on:

• Old Naples: Dining, shopping, beaches, and sightseeing are all nearby
• Parts of Vanderbilt Beach: Easy beach access, but limited walkable dining options

Outside of these areas, a car is usually necessary for daily activities.

Can You Rely on Uber or Lyft in Naples?

Uber and Lyft are available in Naples, but they work best as an occasional option rather than a full replacement for a car.

• Rideshare availability is strongest in central areas
• Wait times can increase during peak season
• Costs add up quickly for beach trips, dining, and errands

For longer stays or family trips, having a car is usually more convenient and cost-effective.

How Far Are the Beaches From Most Vacation Rentals?

Beach access varies widely depending on where you stay:

• Beachfront and beach-adjacent areas often allow walkable access
• Residential neighborhoods may require a 10–20 minute drive
• Parking near public beach access is generally available but fills faster during peak season

Travelers planning daily beach time often prefer staying closer to the coast.

Is Naples Bike-Friendly?

Naples is moderately bike-friendly, particularly in scenic coastal areas and quieter residential neighborhoods.

• Flat terrain makes biking accessible
• Bike paths and trails exist but are not continuous city-wide
• Biking works best for short trips rather than all-day transportation

Bikes can be a nice supplement, but they rarely replace a car entirely.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Naples With Kids?

For families, a car is almost always the easiest option.

• Simplifies beach days, groceries, and outings
• Allows access to larger homes and quieter neighborhoods
• Reduces reliance on rideshares with children

Families staying in residential areas tend to find driving far more practical.

Do Snowbirds or Longer-Stay Travelers Need a Car?

Yes, most longer-stay visitors choose to have a car. Snowbirds often stay in quieter neighborhoods where errands, dining, and recreation require driving. Having a car provides flexibility and makes extended stays much more comfortable.

Choosing Where to Stay Based on Transportation

How you plan to get around should influence where you stay:

• Want walkability and minimal driving? Choose central, well-connected neighborhoods
• Prioritizing space, privacy, or longer stays? Residential areas with easy driving access may be a better fit
• Planning a beach-first trip? Staying closer to the coast can reduce daily travel time

Exploring vacation rentals by neighborhood helps match your transportation needs with the right location.

Planning a Smooth Trip to Naples

Naples is easy to navigate once you understand its layout. Most visitors enjoy the flexibility of having a car, while travelers staying in walkable areas can enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace.

Booking directly with local hosts also allows you to choose homes that fit how you plan to move around — whether that means walking to dinner, driving to the beach, or settling in comfortably for a longer stay.