In this paper the seismic behaviour of single piles embedded in layered soil deposits is evaluated by considering the soil-pile kinematic interaction. The kinematic analysis is performed by using a finite element model for the pile foundation and a Winkler-type medium for the soil. The excitation motion is obtained by means of a one-D propagation analysis of an artificial accelerogram from the bedrock. The analytical model permits calculating the internal forces induced by soil-pile interaction. A comprehensive parametric analysis is carry out by varying the main parameters governing the dynamic response of piles. The influence of the layered soil properties, the bedrock location, the diameter and the bedrock embedment of piles is discussed.