Pompeii Archaeological Park
Walk through an ancient Roman city frozen in time by volcanic ash, offering an unparalleled glimpse into daily life in 79 AD.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Pompeii Archaeological Park
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through an ancient Roman city frozen in time by volcanic ash, offering an unparalleled glimpse into daily life in 79 AD.
"Pompeii is an extraordinary window into the past, a city preserved by tragedy."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require sturdy, broken-in footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle; there are water taps throughout the site. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Room
Region 9
Discover a recently unearthed room with a rare, vibrant blue pigment that has captivated archaeologists and visitors alike.
Frescoed Houses
Various villas
Marvel at remarkably preserved frescoes depicting daily life, mythology, and banquets, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman art.
The Forum
Central Pompeii
Stand in the heart of ancient Pompeii, imagining the bustling public life and civic activities that once took place here.
Brothels and Phallic Symbols
Various locations
Explore the surprisingly explicit art and symbols that guided visitors to brothels, offering a unique insight into Roman social life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Guide or Self-Guided?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require sturdy, broken-in footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle; there are water taps throughout the site. :droplet:
Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and light clothing are essential, as shade is limited. :sunwithface:
Consider Herculaneum
Smaller and often better preserved, Herculaneum is a great alternative or addition. :classical_building:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require sturdy, broken-in footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle; there are water taps throughout the site. :droplet:
Sun Protection is Key
Hats, sunscreen, and light clothing are essential, as shade is limited. :sunwithface:
Consider Herculaneum
Smaller and often better preserved, Herculaneum is a great alternative or addition. :classical_building:
Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Pompeii Archaeological Park tickets in advance. :ticket:
Download Audio Guides
Free audio guides are available via apps, offering detailed historical context. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pompeii for its unparalleled historical significance and the incredible preservation of the ancient city. The sheer scale and detail offer a profound glimpse into Roman life. However, some find the site overwhelming, poorly signposted, and lacking sufficient shade and amenities, leading to a less organized experience for those without a guide.
"I could go on for hours. So I will be succinct with the basics.
• Book a guided tour.
• Travel light.
• Bring water.
Honestly, booking a tour guide is the best thing to do. You will have no idea where you are because the place is huge and may get lost down the tight streets.
There is a place to get food/drinks/ice cream, etc. This is up some very steep stairs. And it's going to be very busy. The only toilets in the site are located here too. So be prepared.
Overall, go and experience this very special and ancient site. Touch the buildings, walk on the streets, and feel the history!"
Luke
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
An unforgettable experience—moving, fascinating, and powerful.
Visiting the archaeological site of Pompeii was truly incredible. Walking through the ancient streets, seeing the homes, temples, and everyday life frozen in time, is both awe-inspiring and deeply emotional. There’s a real sense of wonder, but also sadness, knowing the tragic story behind it all.
The site is very large, so be prepared to spend at least half a day exploring—it’s worth taking your time. I highly recommend renting an audio guide or using an app to help you understand what you’re looking at. It really adds depth to the experience and helps bring the history to life.
Tip: Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water. There is a restaurant on site, but it’s quite far from the main entrance and not always convenient once you’re inside. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are also a must, especially in summer!
A truly unforgettable visit—one that stays with you long after you leave"
Altaz Ladhani
"An absolutely incredible preservation of history and a must see. We hired a guide so we were able to enter early. He asked what type of tour we were interested in because it can take several days to see Pompeii depending on preference. We let him know that we wanted an abbreviated tour hitting the highlights and he did an amazing job. We stayed one step ahead of the crowds throughout our visit and were in and out in about 2 hours. This was perfect for us. Do note that there is no where to use the restroom or get food or water once you are inside."
Maggie J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Garibaldi station to the 'Pompeii Scavi' stop, which is right by the archaeological site. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes.
Yes, there are several parking options. 'Parcheggio Santuario di Pompei' is often recommended as a cheaper option. Be aware that parking for Pompeii can be competitive.
It's possible but very long. You'd need to take a high-speed train to Naples (about 1 hour), then the Circumvesuviana to Pompeii. It will consume your entire day.
Take the Circumvesuviana train from Sorrento towards Naples, and get off at the 'Pompeii Scavi' station. The ride is scenic and direct.
Yes, local buses connect Pompeii to nearby towns and train stations. If you arrive at the Pompeii train station, a short bus ride can take you directly to the entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard entry tickets are around €18. It's highly recommended to book your Pompeii Archaeological Park tickets online in advance to secure your spot and avoid queues.
Opening hours vary by season. Typically, summer hours are 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM), and winter hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 3:30 PM). Always check the official website for the most current Pompeii Archaeological Park opening hours.
While there are occasional free entry days or specific circumstances, standard entry requires a ticket. Some sources mention ways to visit for free, but these are not guaranteed.
Many visitors find a guide significantly enhances their understanding and experience, helping to navigate the vast site and uncover hidden details. However, self-guided tours with audio guides are also popular. +1
Yes, booking Pompeii Archaeological Park tickets in advance is strongly advised, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially skip lines. 
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Pompeii is massive. A minimum of 3-4 hours is recommended for a basic overview, but a full day is ideal to explore more thoroughly. Many suggest dedicating at least a full day.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the uneven terrain. Light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are also highly recommended, as shade is scarce.
There are limited food and drink options within the archaeological park itself. It's best to bring your own snacks and water, or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Key highlights include the Forum, the Amphitheatre, the Villa of the Mysteries, the Lupanar (brothel), and various well-preserved houses with frescoes. Don't miss the newly discovered Blue Room. +1
The ancient terrain can be challenging. While some main paths are accessible, many areas have uneven surfaces and stairs, making extensive exploration difficult for those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The Forum offers grand vistas, while the intricate details of frescoes and mosaics in the houses provide excellent close-up opportunities. The Amphitheatre and the ancient streets also make for compelling shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the Pompeii Archaeological Park for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect delicate frescoes.
Drone usage is typically prohibited within archaeological sites like Pompeii to protect the ruins and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying drones.
The 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a softer glow on the ancient ruins.
Look for the grooves in the ancient roads from chariot wheels, the detailed mosaics, and the surprisingly prevalent phallic symbols for unique and memorable shots. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more interactive, download a kid-friendly audio guide or create a scavenger hunt for specific features. Emphasize the 'frozen in time' aspect to spark their imagination. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities within the park are limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the off-season or on weekdays when crowds are smaller and the experience might feel more relaxed. While hiring a private guide can be costly, look for group tours that offer a balance of information and affordability.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Safety is generally not a major concern, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. The sheer scale of Pompeii means you can easily find quiet corners for reflection. Don't hesitate to ask staff or locals for directions if needed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Pompeii: A City Frozen in Time
Exploring Pompeii involves navigating its ancient cobblestone streets, which still bear the grooves worn by chariot wheels. You'll encounter houses with remarkably intact frescoes, public baths, temples, and even bakeries. The recent discovery of the 'Blue Room' with its rare pigment highlights that excavations are ongoing, with a significant portion of the city still unearthing its secrets.
Many visitors recommend using audio guides or hiring a local guide to truly bring the city to life. These resources can explain the context of the ruins, point out significant details, and share stories of the people who lived and died here. Without such guidance, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer size and lack of immediate explanation.
The Human Element: Life, Death, and Discovery
Beyond the tragedy, Pompeii reveals the vibrant, and sometimes surprising, aspects of Roman life. The prevalence of phallic symbols, for instance, served as good luck charms and also acted as directional markers, famously pointing towards brothels. Inside these establishments, frescoes depicted various sexual positions, functioning much like a menu for patrons.
The ongoing discoveries, like the 'Blue Room' and new frescoes, underscore that Pompeii continues to yield secrets. These findings not only enrich our understanding of Roman art and culture but also remind us of the continuous effort involved in archaeological research. The site is a living testament to both the destructive power of nature and the enduring legacy of human civilization.
Practicalities: Making Your Pompeii Visit Smooth
Sun protection is paramount. A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential, as shade is scarce. Consider wearing light, breathable clothing. Many visitors recommend arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat, especially during summer months.
When it comes to navigating the site, consider your options. While self-guided tours with audio guides are available and can be informative, many travelers find that hiring a local guide provides a much richer and more efficient experience, helping to highlight key areas and provide historical context.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit