How to Explore Pompeii from Naples

The ancient city of Pompeii is located just 26.5 km from Naples (Napoli), making it the perfect spot for a half-day or full-day excursion. The most efficient way to travel from Naples to Pompeii is by train, taking the Circumvesuviana line all the way to Pompeii. Once you disembark, it's a 5-minute walk to the entrance. Since Pompeii is vast and offers limited shade, it's recommended to use a guide to navigate the site, and be sure to carry plenty of sunscreen and water for the journey.

Head to Napoli Centrale station to catch the Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii. The train is the easiest way to travel from Naples to Pompeii. Look for the Circumvesuviana service, as this is the train that will take you directly to Pompeii.

• The trains are similar to commuter trains, often hot and crowded, so be prepared to stand if necessary.
• Napoli Centrale is the main railway station in Naples.

Purchase a ticket to Pompeii Scavi. You can buy your ticket at the ticket booth next to the platform or at the newsstands and tobacconists inside the station. Trains run every 30 minutes, so there’s no need to buy a ticket in advance—just get one when you arrive at the station.

• You will purchase a one-way ticket.

Walk to Piazza Nolana station to ensure a seat on the train if desired. Although you can catch a train at Napoli Centrale, it can be crowded, and you may not get a seat. By walking to Piazza Nolana station, where all the trains depart, you’ll increase your chances of getting the seat you want.

• Piazza Nolana station is just an 8-minute walk from Napoli Centrale.

Take the train and get off at Pompei Scavi/Villa dei Misteri stop. At the station, you’ll see signs guiding you to the Circumvesuviana line. After about 35 minutes on the train, you’ll arrive at the “Pompei Scavi/Villa dei Misteri” stop. Be sure to get off the train and don’t forget any belongings on board.

• The platform is located on the lower level.
• Pickpocketing is a common issue on trains, so always keep an eye on your belongings.
• If you have luggage, store it in the luggage room at Pompeii Scavi station. You are not allowed to bring luggage into the Pompeii archaeological site.

Walk to the main entrance of Pompeii at Porta Marina. Upon exiting Pompeii Scavi station, turn right and head towards the archaeological site. After about 5 minutes of walking, you’ll reach the entrance to Pompeii, where you can purchase your tickets.

• If necessary, you can refer to a map or ask locals to ensure you’re heading in the right direction.

Purchase tickets at the Pompeii entrance. Here, you will find a ticket office where you can buy tickets for everyone in your group. Each ticket costs €13 per person (335,000 VND). The ticket office does not accept credit cards, so make sure to bring cash.

• Discounts may be available for residents who can present an ID card.
• You can also buy tickets online in advance, a day or more before your visit (but not on the same day you plan to visit).

Use the Pompeii map provided at the site. This map is crucial as it helps you navigate around Pompeii, and you will receive one when purchasing your ticket. If you don’t receive one, ask the staff or a guide for a map of the Pompeii area before you begin your exploration.

• The map includes all the main sites you will visit, along with the locations of restrooms, food stalls, and drinking fountains.

Select a guide for your Pompeii tour. You can use the audio guide provided by the Pompeii archaeological site, hire a guide to lead you around Pompeii, or download the Pompeii tourism app, which serves as a guide on your phone. Most of these options incur a fee, with the most expensive being a private tour guide.

• Be sure to bring headphones if you plan to use the audio guide or app.
• If you hire a private guide, you can choose between half-day or full-day tours.
• You can also bring your own Pompeii guidebook if you purchased one in advance.

Explore the central area near the Pompeii entrance. This was the political, commercial, and social hub of the city. The area features many significant ruins and is located close to the main entrance at Porta Marina.

• This is one of the most popular attractions in Pompeii.

Visit the Amphitheater to admire its remarkable architecture. The amphitheater was where people would come to watch games and gladiator fights, and it remains the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater.

• The amphitheater is located at the far corner of Pompeii.

Discover the House of Faun to explore an ancient mansion. This grand and most luxurious house in Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into architectural design. If you look at the house's backyard, you will spot a famous mosaic depicting a battle scene.

• The house is named after the statue in the front yard.

Visit the Grain Shop to see archaeological findings. The grain shop was once the place where people bought goods like herbs and grains. Today, during a visit, you can witness plaster casts of victims who couldn't escape the city, along with other intriguing archaeological discoveries.

Take in a view of Mount Vesuvius from Teatro Grande. Teatro Grande is a massive theater that could accommodate 5,000 people and showcases ancient architecture. From the top rows of the theater, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mount Vesuvius.

• Teatro Grande is part of the theater complex.

Pay attention to restricted or closed-off areas. Some areas or buildings may be blocked off with restriction signs or may not have any signage at all. If you come across a zone that seems restricted, rely on your best judgment to avoid it.

• Also, remember not to touch items like frescoes or famous landmark markers to help preserve them.

• The best time to visit Pompeii is in the morning to avoid the intense afternoon heat.
• Pompeii tours often involve walking on uneven surfaces, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing strollers.
• You can also take the SITA bus from Naples to Pompeii, though the train remains the better option.
• Arrive at the archaeological site at least two hours before closing time to ensure ample time for exploration.
• Bring sunscreen and water. The site has limited shaded areas, and the heat can be intense during the warmer months.
• Pompeii is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM from April to October and from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM from November to March. It is closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.