The archaeological site of Pompeii is a remarkable destination that offers an experience like no other. Even if you’ve visited before, ongoing excavations continually reveal new attractions that merit a second visit. For those making their first trip to southern Italy, a stop at Pompeii is essential. However, due to the site’s vastness and the millions of visitors it receives each year, we’ve put together a few tips to ensure you maximize your visit.
Wondering how best to explore Pompeii? Check out our five essential tips below.
Pompeii: A Brief Overview
Pompeii was once a bustling and cosmopolitan city in the Roman Empire, but everything changed when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, covering the city in ash and debris. Excavations began in 1748, and since then, much of the city has been uncovered, allowing visitors to stroll its streets and glimpse daily life during the Roman era.
Tip #1 for Visiting Pompeii
Wear comfortable shoes and pack essentials such as a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Since Pompeii is an expansive archaeological site with limited shade, it’s important to prioritize your comfort. Most visitors spend about three hours exploring, which is generally the maximum length of time one can effectively absorb the wealth of information available. Given the hot sun and extensive walking, starting with your own comfort is key.
Tip #2 for Visiting Pompeii
Avoid visiting on free Sundays. While Pompeii attracts millions of visitors year-round, it becomes especially crowded on the first Sunday of each month, when entry is free. Admission prices are reasonable, and it’s not worth enduring the long lines and massive crowds just to save a small fee. If you’re intent on a less crowded experience, consider the equally fascinating archaeological site of Herculaneum instead, which receives only about 300,000 visitors annually and is just a 10-minute train ride away. The best way to truly enjoy Pompeii is to do so with minimal crowds.
Tip #3 for Visiting Pompeii
Consider hiring a guide. Navigating a 2,000-year-old archaeological site can be challenging due to the vast size and the fact that many attractions are not well-marked. A knowledgeable guide can efficiently lead you through the site, providing engaging storytelling and historical context. A private guided tour for about 2.5 hours is more affordable than many might think, often around $250. The best way to experience Pompeii is undoubtedly with a dedicated guide.
Tip #4 for Visiting Pompeii
Avoid renting a car. While there are parking facilities at Pompeii, the Circumvesuviana commuter train and the faster Campania Express stop conveniently at the entrance. These trains run from Naples Central Station to Sorrento, with stops at both Pompeii and Herculaneum. For your convenience, we highly recommend against driving in Naples or along the Amalfi Coast. If you have luggage, Pompeii offers storage, enabling a seamless visit while traveling between Naples and the Amalfi Coast. If you prefer not to deal with the hassle of trains and luggage, hiring a driver is an excellent alternative. Traveling to Pompeii by train or with a private driver is certainly the smartest choice.
Tip #5 for Visiting Pompeii
Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum in Naples. Throughout the excavations at Pompeii, countless ancient artifacts and artworks were discovered and relocated to this museum. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring its exhibits, ideally with your private guide to provide additional insights. Enhancing your Pompeii experience by delving into this museum is a must. A close second in terms of must-see experiences would be a hike up Mount Vesuvius, the very volcano that buried the city.
Day Trip to Pompeii from Rome
Here’s a bonus tip! Although it’s not the most recommended option due to the long day it entails, visiting Pompeii as a day trip from Rome can still be arranged. Many travelers opt for this when visiting Rome while wishing to see Pompeii without heading to the Amalfi Coast. We often tailor such day trips for our clients. Here’s what a typical day trip itinerary might look like:
7 AM: Taxi from hotel to Roma Termini Train station
7:30 AM: Train from Rome to Naples Central Station
8:40 AM: Arrival at Naples Central Station. While we typically book drivers for our travelers, there’s also the Campania Express train, which is about a 20-minute walk from the station. The trains run every 20 minutes and take about 40 minutes to reach Pompeii.
Driver to Pompeii, often with a stop for local pastries along the way.
10 AM: Arrive at Pompeii and meet your private guide.
10 AM – 12:30 PM: Private tour of Pompeii
12:30 PM – 2 PM: Lunch
In the afternoon, travelers usually have the option to hike the crater on Mt. Vesuvius or visit the Archaeological Museum in Naples.
6 PM: Grab pizza-to-go to enjoy on the train
6:30 PM: Train back to Rome
7:40 PM: Arrival back in Rome, followed by a taxi to the hotel.
8 PM: Expected arrival back at the hotel.
