Pompeii’s labyrinth of cobbled streets and well-preserved buildings takes you on a journey back to ancient Rome. From the grandeur of the Forum to the opulent villas embellished with intricate frescoes, every corner reveals the splendour of a lost civilisation.
Two thousand years ago, Pompeii was a thriving and prosperous town favoured by Roman elites. But its fate took a tragic turn when Mount Vesuvius unleashed its catastrophic fury in 79 AD. The volcano’s eruption engulfed Pompeii in layers of ash and pumice, entombing the city until the 18th century. Today, the archaeological treasure trove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Since its very first excavation, Pompeii has held the status of the longest continually excavated site ever found.
You don’t have to be an archaeologist or historian to be captivated by Pompeii’s aura. Immerse yourself in the poignant atmosphere as you stand amid the petrified remains of the city’s inhabitants, forever frozen in their final moments. Uncover the enigmas of the renowned Villa of the Mysteries, adorned with cryptic murals that depict secret initiation rituals. Be sure to check out the Amphitheatre, where gladiators fought for glory while crowds erupted with excitement.
Things to know before you go
The archaeological site has an accessible pathway for visitors with reduced mobility.
Photos and videos without the use of flash and tripod are allowed.
Only small bags – 30x30x15cm – are allowed inside the site.
Soft drinks and snacks can be purchased at the on-site restaurant.
There are drinking fountains located inside the excavation sites.
Comfortable footwear is essential as the streets are dusty and unlevel. Be prepared to walk on cobblestones and up steps.
During the summer, it can get very hot and there’s very little shade around the site. Come prepared with a hat, sun cream and a water bottle.
Opening hours
From April to October, 09:00 to 19:00, with last entry at 17:30.
From November to March, 09:00 to 17:00, with last entry at 15:30.
Closed on December 25, January 1 and May 1.
How to get there
Pompeii is just 26km or about 30 minutes away from Naples and is reachable by car, bus or train.
Train:
The most popular way of getting to Pompeii from Naples is the Circumvesuviana, a commuter train line. Take the Circumvesuviana train bound for Sorrento and disembark at the Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station. The journey takes around 35 minutes.
From Napoli Centrale station, you can also get to Pompeii with a Trenitalia regional train. Board a train heading towards Salerno or Poggiomarino and alight at the Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station. These trains usually have fewer stops and offer a more comfortable travel experience.
The Campania Express connects the centre of Naples with Pompeii. These air-conditioned trains are quicker and more comfortable, with space for luggage and the opportunity to pre book a seat. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Bus:
From Naples, you can take the EAV and SITA buses from Piazza Garibaldi station. The journey takes around 35 minutes.
Car:
There are private car parks as well as municipal parking spaces, outside the archaeological site.
There are three entrance gates to Pompeii archaeological site – Porta Marina, Piazza Anfiteatro, and Piazza Esedra. The Porta Marina gate is closest to Pompei Scavi station, which is where you’ll get off if you arrive by either the Circumvesuviana train or the SITA bus.
