Travel Guide - Pompeii

Travel adventures are trips conducted by our staff to get first hand view of great trips. They relate their experiences and to help plan a great trip!

Traveling to Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life, with its well-preserved ruins providing a unique historical experience. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Pompeii:

1. Planning Your Visit:

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, and winter may have limited services.
• Tickets: Purchase your tickets in advance online to avoid long lines at the entrance. Consider buying a combined ticket for Pompeii and nearby Herculaneum if you're interested in visiting multiple sites.

2. Getting There:

• By Train: Pompeii is accessible via the Circumvesuviana train line from Naples or Sorrento. The station is a short walk from the entrance.
• By Car: If driving, there are parking lots near the site, but be prepared for limited parking and heavy traffic, especially during peak times.

3. Exploring Pompeii:

• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the ruins. Audio guides are also available and can enhance your understanding of the site.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Pompeii’s streets are uneven and can be quite extensive. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water with you, as the site is large and can get very hot, especially in summer. There are a few places within the site where you can purchase drinks, but they may be expensive.

4. What to Bring:

• Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. There is limited shade within the site.
• Camera: The ruins are incredibly photogenic, so bring a camera to capture the impressive architecture and details.

5. Exploring the Site:

• Key Highlights: Don’t miss the Forum, the amphitheater, the House of the Vettii, the Villa of the Mysteries, and the plaster casts of victims. These areas offer a glimpse into daily life and the scale of the eruption’s impact.
• Maps and Signage: Pick up a map at the entrance or download a map app on your phone to help navigate the site. Signage is available but can be sparse in some areas.

6. Health and Safety:

• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: The ruins can be uneven and sometimes slippery, so watch your step. Be cautious in crowded areas.
• Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and have a plan in case of an emergency.

7. Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Vesuvius: Consider a trip to Mount Vesuvius for a hike to the crater. It offers great views and a chance to see the volcano that caused the eruption.
• Herculaneum: If you have more time, visit Herculaneum, another site affected by the eruption, which is smaller but very well-preserved.

8. Local Tips:

• Food and Drink: There are limited dining options within the Pompeii archaeological site. Plan to eat before or after your visit, or bring snacks and water.
• Dress Code: Wear respectful clothing when visiting historical sites, though there is no strict dress code for Pompeii specifically.

9. Avoiding Crowds:

• Visit Early or Late: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

10. Respect the Site:

• Preservation: Follow all posted rules and guidelines to help preserve the site for future generations. Do not touch the ruins or graffiti.

Enjoy your visit to Pompeii! It’s a remarkable place that offers a window into ancient Roman life and a chance to walk through history.