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Amalfi Coast Day Tour on Tripadvisor

How to visit Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius

How to visit Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius, is an unmissable experience for those who want to discover the past and admire breathtaking landscapes. The day begins among the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the Roman city buried by the eruption of 79 AD.

Walking among temples, frescoed villas and paved streets, you can breathe in the history and understand how its inhabitants lived before the catastrophe. After the visit, you climb towards Vesuvius, the volcano that marked the fate of Pompeii.

The path leads to the edge of the crater, from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Gulf of Naples, Capri, Ischia and the Amalfi Coast. The path is short but evocative, with the lunar landscape of volcanic rocks that tells the story of the power of nature.

What happened at Pompeii?

Pompeii, an ancient Roman city, was destroyed on August 24, 79 AD by one of the most devastating volcanic eruptions in history.

Before the tragedy, Pompeii was a prosperous city, with streets bustling with markets, baths, temples and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for wealthy Roman patricians. 

The eruption of Vesuvius

At dawn on August 24, a violent explosion shook the earth: Vesuvius erupted, throwing a column of ash and toxic gas over 30 km high into the air. For hours, pumice and lapilli fell on the city, forcing the population to flee or take refuge in their homes.

After about 12 hours of eruption, the most lethal phase occurred during the night: Vesuvius generated a series of pyroclastic flows, real burning clouds of gas, instantly killing anyone who found themselves in their path.

The Rediscovery of Pompeii

Pompeii was forgotten for centuries until archaeological excavations began in 1748, bringing to light buildings, frescoes and even the bodies of the victims, of which it was possible to obtain plaster casts thanks to the cavities left in the ash.

Today, Pompeii is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world, walking among its ruins means taking a real journey into the past, observing houses, shops, theaters and even the inscriptions left by the inhabitants.

How to get to Pompeii from Naples, Sorrento and Rome

If you want to visit Pompeii from Naples, Salerno or Rome, you have several transportation options including train, bus, car

From Naples to Pompeii (about 30-40 minutes)

By train:
Circumvesuviana: departs from Naples Garibaldi station and arrives at Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri in 35-40 minutes. Trains depart every 30 minutes.

Regional train (Trenitalia): departs from Naples Central and arrives at Pompeii station (city center) in 30 minutes.

By bus:
SITA Sud buses connect Naples to Pompeii in about 40-50 minutes.

By car:
Take the A3 Naples-Salerno motorway and exit at Pompei Ovest or Pompei Est.
The journey takes about 30 minutes.

Salerno to Pompeii (about 30-40 minutes)

By train:
Trenitalia regional trains take about 40 minutes from Salerno station to Pompeii station (center).

By bus:
SITA Sud buses connect Salerno and Pompeii in about 50 minutes.

By car:
Take the A3 Salerno-Naples motorway and exit at Pompei Est. The journey takes about 30 minutes

From Rome to Pompeii (about 2-3 hours)

By train:
Frecciarossa or Italo: depart from Roma Termini and arrive at Napoli Centrale in 1h-1h15.

From Naples, take the Circumvesuviana or a regional train to Pompeii (an additional 30-40 minutes).

By bus:
Some private operators offer direct buses from Rome to Pompeii, with a journey time of about 3 hours.

By car:
Take the A1 Rome-Naples motorway, then the A3 Naples-Salerno, and exit at Pompei Ovest. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, traffic permitting.

What should you see in Pompeii

Local Vineyards

The vineyards of Pompeii and the slopes of Vesuvius offer a unique experience, combining the millenary winemaking tradition with the extraordinary fertility of the volcanic soil.

Thanks to the ash and minerals released by the eruptions of Vesuvius, the soil is particularly rich and gives the local wines unique characteristics in terms of taste and structure.

A connection with antiquity

Vine growing in the Pompeii area dates back to Roman times. The ancient Romans cultivated vines on the slopes of Vesuvius, and Pompeii was famous for its wine production.

Frescoes and amphorae with inscriptions bear witness to the trade and consumption of wine in the ancient city. The vineyards of the area give life to some of the most distinctive wines of Campania, including:

Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio DOC: available in white, red and rosé variants, it is the most iconic wine of the region. Legend has it that its name derives from the tears of Christ shed on Vesuvius

Caprettone: native vine used in the production of fresh and mineral white wines.

Piedirosso: red grape, appreciated for its fruity aromas and its softness.

Visiting the local vineyards of Pompeii is an opportunity to savor history through wine, discovering the deep connection between the territory and its winemaking tradition

Pompeii

The Anphitheatre of Pompeii

The Pompeii Amphitheatre is one of the most evocative and best preserved monuments in the archaeological area. Built in 70 BC, it is the oldest Roman amphitheatre that has survived to this day, even preceding the famous Colosseum in Rome.

As in all the amphitheatres of the time, gladiator fights took place here and, in 59 AD, a violent brawl between fans from Pompeii and Nocera forced Emperor Nero to suspend the shows for ten years.

Unlike the Colosseum, it did not have underground passages, so the fighters and animals accessed the arena directly. Today, the Pompeii amphitheatre is one of the most fascinating places in the excavations. Walking among its steps, it is easy to imagine the emotion and fervor of the audience two thousand years ago.

In more recent times, the amphitheatre has been the scene of major cultural events, including the famous Pink Floyd concert in 1971, which transformed the arena into an icon for music lovers as well.

Temples and Public Spaces

Nuovi Scavi 

Pompeii continues to reveal its secrets thanks to archaeological excavations that offer an increasingly detailed look at daily life in the ancient city.New areas brought to light have yielded surprisingly well-preserved frescoes, mosaics and furnishings.

Among these, the magnificent fresco of the House of Venus stands out, depicting the goddess immersed in a lush natural landscape. We also explored the remains of the ancient public baths, an essential meeting place for the inhabitants of Pompeii.

Another fascinating discovery concerns the pleasure houses, recognizable by the particular decorations on the facades: phallic symbols engraved at the entrance served as a signal for customers.

Every corner of Pompeii tells a story, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the city as it was before the tragic eruption of Vesuvius.

The house of the tragic Poeta 

The House of the Tragic Poet is one of the most fascinating homes in Pompeii, famous for its extraordinary frescoes and mosaics. Located in Regio VI, it dates back to the 1st century BC and is considered an emblematic example of a Roman domus.

One of the most iconic elements of the house is the mosaic at the entrance, depicting a dog accompanied by the words “Cave Canem” (“Beware of the dog”), a detail that offers a realistic glimpse of domestic life in ancient Rome.

The walls are decorated with splendid Pompeian-style frescoes, characterized by mythological and theatrical scenes. The name of the house derives from a fresco depicting a tragic actor preparing for a show, a detail that suggests a link with the world of theater.

A journey into Roman life

Visiting the House of the Tragic Poet allows you to immerse yourself in the aesthetic taste and refinement of the Pompeian aristocratic class, offering a fascinating look at the cultural and artistic life of the time.

The house of the Faun

The House of the Faun is one of the most majestic and luxurious residences in Pompeii, dating back to the 2nd century BC. Among the largest domus in the city, it represents a perfect example of a Roman aristocratic home.

It owes its name to the small bronze statue of a dancing faun, originally located in one of the atria. Today the original is preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Naples, while a copy is still visible on site.

Architecture and structure

The House of the Faun follows the classic layout of the Roman domus, but on a monumental scale, with a more complex layout:

Two atria (Tuscanic and Corinthian), decorated with great refinement.

Two peristyles (colonnaded gardens), which created bright and elegant spaces.

Numerous rooms frescoed and paved with precious mosaics, testifying to the pomp of the time.

The Mosaic of Alexander the Great

One of the most famous treasures found in the house is the Mosaic of the Battle of Issus, which depicts the clash between Alexander the Great and Darius III of Persia.

This extraordinary masterpiece, composed of over a million tiles, is now exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Naples. The grandeur of the House of the Faun reflects the wealth and prestige of its owner, probably a Pompeian nobleman.

By visiting it, you can immerse yourself in the luxury of the Roman elite and discover first-hand how the wealthiest inhabitants of Pompeii lived.

When to visit Pompeii

The best time to visit Pompeii is spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists than in summer.

Which season should you choose?

Spring (March-May): mild temperatures (15-25°C) and flowering vegetation, perfect for walking among the ruins.

Autumn (September-November): still pleasant weather and fewer visitors than in the summer months.

Summer (June-August): very hot (over 35°C) and large crowds. If you visit during this period, it is best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the most intense sun.

Winter (December-February): fewer tourists and cheaper prices, but colder temperatures and possible rainy days.

Choosing the right time will allow you to enjoy your visit to the fullest without the discomfort of heat or excessive crowding

Unveiling the secrets of Pompeii, the haunting beauty of Herculaneum, and the coastal charm of Sorrento. A private tour that intertwines history, archaeology, and the enchanting allure of the Sorrentine Peninsula.

Where should I stay for visiting Pompeii?

If you are planning a visit to the archaeological site of Pompeii, your choice of accommodation is essential to maximizing your experience.

The main options include staying in Pompeii itself, or in the nearby cities of Naples or Sorrento, each offering unique experiences.

Staying in Pompeii

Staying in Pompeii puts you within walking distance of the ruins, offering maximum convenience for visits. The city has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, bed & breakfasts and apartments.

Staying in Naples

Naples, located about 25 km from Pompeii, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural and gastronomic offer. Staying here allows you to explore not only Pompeii, but also the many attractions of the city, such as the National Archaeological Museum, which houses many artifacts from Pompeii itself.

The connection to Pompeii is easy thanks to the Circumvesuviana train line, which connects Naples to the ruins in about 30-40 minutes.

Staying in Sorrento

Sorrento, located about 30 km from Pompeii, offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples.

It is an ideal base if you want to combine a visit to Pompeii with exploring the Amalfi Coast. From Sorrento, the Circumvesuviana also easily connects to Pompeii in about 30-40 minutes.

Where to stay depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you want to have. If your main goal is to visit the ruins in maximum comfort, staying in Pompeii may be the ideal solution.

If you want a more urban experience, with the possibility of exploring other cultural and gastronomic attractions, Naples or Sorrento are good options, both of which are well connected to Pompeii.

excavation of Pompeii

Trips for you to Pompeii

Visiting the Pompeii excavations is a unique experience that allows you to take a real journey through time, exploring a Roman city that was frozen by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. To make the most of your visit, here are some useful tips.

1 Buy tickets in advance

To avoid long lines, it is advisable to buy tickets online on the official website or through authorized resellers. There are several options, including skip-the-line tickets and guided tours.

2 Dress appropriately

Wear comfortable shoes: the streets of Pompeii are paved with ancient stones and can be uneven.
Bring a hat and sunglasses, especially in summer.
In winter, bring a raincoat because the site is mostly outdoors.

3 Bring water and snacks

There are few fountains inside the excavations, so it is essential to have a bottle of water with you. There are also some refreshment areas, but having a light snack can be useful.

4 Use a map or audio guide

Pompeii is a large archaeological site and it can be easy to get lost. Use a paper map, the official app, or an audio guide to discover the highlights.

5 Consider a guided tour

If you want to delve deeper into the history and discover interesting facts, a guided tour is a great option. Knowledgeable guides can offer insights that will enrich your experience.

6 Respect the archaeological site

-Do not touch or sit on the ruins.
-Follow the designated paths and do not enter closed areas.
-Avoid leaving litter lying around.

Visiting Pompeii is an incredible experience, but to make the most of it, it is essential to be prepared. By following these tips, you can explore the site comfortably and enrich your knowledge of ancient Roman life. Happy travels through time!

Unveiling the secrets of ancient wonders with a private journey through Pompeii, Stabiae, Oplontis, and Boscoreale. History comes alive, and every step tells a tale of a bygone era.

Ponpeii opening times in 2024 and 2025

If you are planning a visit in 2024 or 2025, it is important to know the opening hours and other useful information to better organize your experience.

Pompeii opening hours in 2024 and 2025

The archaeological area follows a seasonal calendar with different hours depending on the time of year.

Winter hours (November 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025)
During the colder months, the site welcomes visitors every day of the week, with entry permitted from 9:00 to 17:00. The last entry is possible until 15:30, while some domus may close from 16:15.

Summer hours (April 1 – October 31, 2025)
With the arrival of the good weather, the hours are extended to allow for a longer visit. The park is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, with last admission at 17:30. Again, some homes may not be accessible after 18:00.

Closing days and special openings

Pompeii is closed on December 25th and January 1st. As for the May 1st holiday, opening is not always guaranteed: the authorities usually communicate the decision only one or two weeks before the date.

If you plan to visit Pompeii, we recommend purchasing tickets in advance and checking for any updates on opening hours and special closures to avoid inconvenien

Travel from Pompeii to Vesuvius

After visiting the Pompeii ruins, a great idea is to continue your exploration with an excursion to Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed the city in 79 AD.

The Vesuvius National Park offers panoramic trails and direct access to the crater, allowing you to admire a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples. Here is all the information to organize the trip from Pompeii to Vesuvius.

1 How to get to Vesuvius from Pompeii

There are several options for reaching Vesuvius:

By bus
Navetta Vesuvio Express: It leaves from the Circumvesuviana station in Pompeii (Villa dei Misteri) and takes you to the entrance of the National Park. The ticket includes both transportation and entrance to the crater.

EAV bus from Pompeii to Vesuvius: Another option is to take the EAV bus from Pompeii to an altitude of 1,000 meters, where the access to the path to the crater is located.

By car
From Pompeii, take the SP19 road towards the Vesuvius National Park. The nearest parking lot is about 1,000 meters above sea level, from there you have to walk for about 20-30 minutes to the crater.

With an organized tour
Several agencies offer guided excursions starting from Pompeii, including transportation, an expert guide and entrance ticket.

2 What to expect from a visit to Vesuvius

Distance and duration: The climb from the parking lot to the crater is about 1 km with a moderate slope. The visit to the crater lasts on average 1-2 hours.

Spectacular views: From the top you can admire Naples, the Gulf, the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida, as well as the crater itself.

Volcanological guide: The entrance fee includes a short explanation by the National Park guides.

3 Useful tips for the visit

Wear comfortable shoes: The path is unpaved and can be slippery.

Bring water and sunscreen: The route is exposed to the sun and can get very hot in the summer.

Book in advance: There are limited places to enter the crater, so it is best to book online.

Be aware of the weather: In case of bad weather, access to the crater may be closed.

Visiting Pompeii and Vesuvius on the same day is a unique experience that combines history and nature. With a little planning, you can explore the ancient buried city and then climb the volcano that sealed its fate, living an unforgettable day of archaeology and breathtaking views

Hiking to the Mount Vesuvius summit

Vesuvius is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world, a symbol of natural power and ancient history. Located in the heart of Campania, it dominates the Gulf of Naples with its imposing silhouette, reminding us of its legendary fame.

Its most devastating eruption, which occurred in 79 AD, marked history forever, burying the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under a blanket of ash and lapilli.

Today, Vesuvius is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in southern Italy and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.

Thanks to the Vesuvius National Park, it is possible to explore this giant of nature through an unforgettable excursion that allows you to admire unique volcanic landscapes, enjoy spectacular views and observe up close the crater of one of the most monitored and studied volcanoes on the planet.

Route details:

The trail is well marked and has a bottom of volcanic rock and solidified ash. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as some sections can be slippery, especially after rain.

Although the route is suitable for everyone, it can be challenging for those who are not used to walking uphill. However, the effort is rewarded by the extraordinary views that open up along the way.

During the climb, the landscape is characterized by expanses of solidified lava, broom bushes and other resistant plants that grow on this volcanic soil. In spring, the colors of the vegetation contrast with the dark soil, creating a suggestive panorama.

The summit and the crater of Vesuvius

Once you reach the top, you find yourself in front of an impressive sight: the crater of Vesuvius, with a diameter of about 450 meters and a depth of 300 meters. Steam fumaroles rise from the walls, a sign of the constant activity of the volcano.

From the summit you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples, the islands of Capri, Ischia  and Procida, the Sorrento peninsula and the Amalfi Coast and the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Along the crater, volcanological guides provide information on the geology and history of eruptions, explaining how Vesuvius is constantly monitored by seismologists to prevent any risks.

Visiting Vesuvius is not just an excursion, but a journey through time and geology.  It is the opportunity to admire one of the most beautiful views in Italy, walk on the traces of ancient eruptions and feel the extraordinary energy of a still active volcano.

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