pompeii ruins tour

Complete Pompeii Experience: Skip the Line Tour & Archaeologist Guide

• Wandering the ancient streets of Pompeii, it’s easy to miss out on the real must-sees—and difficult to understand them when you do come across them. Get the best from your visit with an expert archaeologist as your guide.
• You’ll visit all the top sights of the ruined city, including the plaster death casts, the Roman Forum, a theater, ancient fast food restaurants, the cemetery, the bakery, the main street and even the supermarket. Over the course of three hours, you’ll explore more of the ruins than on any other guided tour.
• Step into the incredible House of the Vettii, a remarkably preserved example of home design and aesthetics in Ancient Rome.
• With pre-reserved tickets, you won’t have to wait in line. Small groups of 15 people or fewer ensure that your exploration is intimate and engaging, and that you get the most from your time with our expert guides.

Tour description

Step back in time at pompeii, exploring the significant sites and less-visited gems in the ancient city..

There’s no better place in Italy to experience life as an ancient Roman than at Pompeii. And the best way to experience Pompeii? With an expert archaeologist guide! That's not just because your guide brings the sights to life with spine-tingling tales from Pompeii's past. It's also because the site is huge, and signs on the ruins are old, hard to read, and usually with only dull, cursory information. We’ll help you make the most of your time in ancient Rome’s best-preserved city on this in-depth experience that brings the stones and streets of Pompeii to life—covering more ground than any other guided Pompeii tour.

Get the most from your visit and understand the sights before your eyes with context from a knowledgeable guide.

Experience Pompeii without the stress of following a map and trying to decipher ruins by yourself. With an expert archaeologist on hand, you'll be taken right to the coolest sights Pompeii has to offer and truly understand what they are.

You’ll see all the most popular sites throughout your Pompeii tour, including a Roman bakery and the Roman Forum. You’ll learn what Ancient Romans ate and drank, what they did for fun and the sad, misguided beliefs they held about the cause of those ground tremors they felt before the eruption, or the frequent clouds of ash from nearby Mount Vesuvius.

But while the spaces frequented by Pompeii’s public are undeniably fascinating, so are their private homes. We’ll show you around one of the city’s most famous: the stunningly preserved House of the Vettii. Owned by two wealthy brothers, this sprawling home is an excellent living testament to Roman design at the time of Pompeii’s destruction.

Of course, you’ll visit what is, for many visitors, the most unmissable aspect of their Pompeii tour: the world-famous plaster casts of those killed in the eruption. These are eerie and moving glimpses of what it must have been like to experience Armageddon.

Another highlight of our Pompeii tour is one of the city’s beautiful theaters, which is amazingly well preserved. You can easily imagine what it was like to watch a performance here in summer on a warm Italian evening.

Tour with a Pompeii archaeologist guide handpicked for their knowledge and friendliness.

Tour operators are required to use official Pompeii tour guides at the archaeological ruins. We’ve chosen only the best of the bunch to work with, hand-picking guides with passion and knowledge—not to mention the storytelling skills required to bring this incredible city to life for you. As on all our tours, we only work with the best five-star guides, because we understand that they’re the most important element of your tour.

If you take a guided tour on only one stop of your Italy vacation, make it Pompeii. With the power to enchant and delight, Pompeii is a hieroglyphic of a site, needing an expert touch to translate. But in the hands of the right archaeologist, it truly comes to life as a living, breathing city.

For details on how to reach Pompeii from Rome, Naples or Sorrento, see our Important Notes page (link below).

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, christopher, jun 22, 2024.

Walks company did a very poor job of providing meeting coordinates. We ended up almost missing the scheduled tour by going to the wrong location. Not sure if our guide was an archeologist as was stated in the tour description.

Jun 13, 2024

Our tour guide, Sonia, was wonderful. She brought special insights to the tour thanks to her training as an archeologist, and she answered questions patiently and thoroughly. We loved her bubbly personality and it was obvious she really loves her job. Pompeii has been on my bucket list since I was a little girl, and I would gladly have paid for a tour longer than three hours, but she brought us to some gems and offered fascinating insights. We were even able to see a site under excavation, which was fascinating. Thank you, Sonia, and thank you to the lovely man on the phone who helped me reschedule when I missed the first tour, that meant so much to me.

May 27, 2024

Definitely use walks of Italy for all of your Italy guided tours when possible. You will have an archaeologist or an expert. They are extremely professional & knowledgeable! We did 3 exceptional tours with them.

May 11, 2024

This was our favorite excursion and memory of our time in Italy. Our tour guide was Sonia S. whose passion, enthusiasm and knowledge for Pompeii had her sharing fascinating stories and facts non-stop. She was an absolute pleasure and we would love to go on future tours with her. Her tour was outstanding. We saw the bathhouse, low and high class bordello, newer excavations of rich people's houses, fast food stands, bakery, theater. temples, the museum/antiquarium with the plaster casts of people and animals and other artifacts, and learned about the paved streets and life on Pompeii. Sonia brought the history of Pompeii alive for us with depth and excitement. We even could sample real "Pompeii" water from the still running Pompeii fountains (updated with modern plumbing). This tour offered the most time in Pompeii as compared to other tours I evaluated plus skip the line tickets and one of the few with real archeologists. I highly recommend this tour. We did the 10:30 am tour (group met a little after 10:15 am on the left side of the entrance; not the right) which allowed us plenty of time to travel from the cruise port, by bus to the Napoli Centrale train station and downstairs to the Napoli Garibaldi station to take the Circumvesuviana commuter train to the Pompei Scavi Villa Dei Misteri station and the 2 minute walk to the Pompei Porto Marina front entrance. The tour concluded a little before 2:00 pm, and Sonia left us conveniently in an area where we could eat our snacks we brought, use the bathroom, and keep touring on our own. We took the 2:50 pm train back to Napoli Garibaldi/Napoli Centrale and then a taxi (20 Euros) back to the cruise ship.

May 10, 2024

Our tour guide, Francesca, was fabulous!

Know before you book

Similar tours, ultimate naples food tour, pompeii tour from rome with amalfi coast drive, pompeii with panoramic winery lunch on vesuvius: day trip from rome.

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How To Visit Pompeii in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: March 26, 2024

How cool would it be to walk around an ancient Roman city with an incredible story? Well, you can at Pompeii. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved archeological sites on Earth! But where is it and how do you visit it? In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about how to visit Pompeii.

Pro Tip:  Planning to visit Pompeii? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re traveling. See our  guide to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast  for more planning resources and our top-rated Pompeii day trip from Rome and other Pompeii tours  for a memorable and easy trip.

Visiting Pompeii: What We’ll Cover

Pompeii was a booming port city in the ancient Roman Empire. But all that changed on August 24th, A.D. 79 when the Mt. Vesuvius volcano erupted. Those who were not killed by the missiles of pumice raining down or the lava were wiped out by the toxic gases.

This disastrous day for the Romans has given us an intimate look into what life was like in an ancient Roman city. The volcanic ash and mud from the eruption encased and preserved the city’s artefacts and some of the people’s bodies, clothes, and even places of business.

Over 2.5 million people visit the archeological site of Pompeii annually, taking a journey back in time. In this guide on how to visit Pompeii, we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How to get to Pompeii
• What to see at Pompeii
• Guided tour options
• Where to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Pompeii day trip from Rome is worth it .

Pompeii Opening Hours and Tickets

Pompeii is open to visitors every day of the week (with seasonal visiting hours) except on December 25, May 1, and January 1 when it is closed—unless otherwise communicated on the website.

Visiting Hours: 

• From April 1 to October 31: Open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, last entrance at 5:30 pm.
• From November 1 to March 31: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, last entrance at 3:30 pm.

Certain villas are closed to the public on Tuesdays.

You can buy your tickets for the Pompeii Archaeological Park directly at the entrance. There are three entrances: Porta Marina, Piazza Anfiteatro, and Piazza Esedra.

You’ll most likely be entering through the Porta Marina, which is the entrance next to the train station and main parking area. It’s also the main ticket desk, so you can buy your ticket here and begin your adventure.

• Adult Full Ticket: €18
• Reduced: €2
• Free under 6 years old

While seeing Pompeii is quite possible on your own, it’s worth considering booking a guided Pompeii tour . The guides at Pompeii are experts in archeological history and will help you understand what you’re seeing in a way that you can’t achieve on your own.

What may seem like a pile of rubble will come to life as a former home, kitchen, or shop from the past. It’s the best way to discover the ancient Roman way of life in the ruins of Pompeii. Book a guided morning tour with us for a more immersive experience!

Address: Via Villa dei Misteri, 2, Pompei

Tours of Pompeii & Amalfi Coast

Best Selling Tour

Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento

Join us on an adventure from Rome to Pompeii and stunning Sorrento with comfortable, round-trip transportation. Skip the line access with an expert guide and make the most of your time in Italy and leave all the details to us. All you have to do is enjoy yourself!

Amazing Experiences

Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Tours

There are many options for your trip to the Amalfi Coast, whether you’re taking a full trip or just a day trip from Rome. You can even explore the most famous archaeological site in the world: Pompeii. The combination of plunging cliffs, history, and charm make the Amalfi Coast one of our favorite places in Italy.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Pompeii day trip from Rome is worth it .

How To Get To Pompeii 

Most people who visit Pompeii come by train from Naples. The good thing is that the train station where you need to get off is right in front of the entrance to the archeological park. It’s a quick walk to the entrance and you can’t miss it.

See the details below to get to Pompeii by train from Rome and the Amalfi Coast and directions for those who have rented a car.

The high-speed train from Rome to Naples runs every 20 minutes. You can take the train from Roma Termini station to Napoli Centrale in just over an hour. Book on Trenitalia or through Italo. They are two competing train companies. I prefer Italo.

From Napoli Centrale, you can switch to the local train to Pompeii. The local train, called the Circumvesuviana, is located down the corridor in what is technically Napoli Garibaldi Station.

Take the train towards Sorrento and you’ll arrive at the Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri station after about 20 minutes. The station is a matter of feet from the entrance to the archaeological area.

If you choose to take the train to Pompeii on your own but are still looking for a guided tour, check out our Skip the Line Pompeii Ruins Tour with Villa of Mysteries .

If you’ve rented a car, it’s quite easy. Get on the Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA) and head onto the A1 highway to Naples. Once you get close to Naples you change to the Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno (exit Pompeii ovest). Or just add the destination to your GPS.

From the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento is the only town close to Pompeii with a train station. If you’re not in Sorrento, you’ll need to make your way there, jump on the train headed in the direction of Napoli Centrale, and get off at Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri.

For the adventurous souls who rent a car, get to the Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno (exit Pompeii ovest). Or use your GPS navigation.

What To See at Pompeii

If you’re taking a guided tour of Pompeii, you don’t need to worry about missing out on any of the important things to see at Pompeii—your guide will take care of that.

Here is a quick list of must-see sites at Pompeii. For a more comprehensive list and descriptions, see our guide on the t op things to see at Pompeii .

• The amphitheater
• The forum of Pompeii and its baths
• The brothel
• The large theater
• The gladiator barracks
• The preserved plaster casts
• The Villa Dei Misteri or Villa of Mysteries
• The Temple of Apollo
• The house of Vettii
• Mt. Vesuvius

Pompeii Tour Options

We always recommend taking tours because we believe it is the best way to see a historical site. You can certainly DIY Pompeii, but you’ll definitely get much more out of your time with an expert local guide who will bring these piles of rocks to life with stories and explanations you can’t discover on your own.

Here are some best-selling guided tour options, some of which include roundtrip transportation from Rome, a stop in Sorrento, or a guided trek up Mt. Vesuvius. All offer skip-the-line access and a knowledgeable local guide.

Skip-the-Line Pompeii Ruins Tour with Villa of Mysteries (2 hours)

This is a 2-hour small-group tour for people who are already in Pompeii or have decided to sort out their own transportation. Let our expert local guide show you the main sites and learn all the crazy anecdotes and stories from the ancient world.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento (12 hours)

This is a small group tour with roundtrip transportation from Rome. It includes a tour leader who will be with you for the day. After visiting the ruins (including Villa dei Misteri) with our expert guide, you’ll then travel on to beautiful Sorrento where you’ll have some free time for shopping and a meal. A  private tour is also available.

Private Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip From Amalfi Coast (8 hours)

This is a private tour for those who are staying in the Amalfi Coast area and don’t want to worry about transportation. We also set up expert local guides for you in Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius—trek all the way to the top and peer into the crater!

Places To Eat Nearby

Options are fairly limited nearby as far as eating and refreshments go. However, if you’re famished or in need of a cup of coffee, here’s where to go:

Autogrill Pompeii : € | Refreshments —Calling it a cafeteria is a stretch, but it is the only place inside the archeological park to get some refreshments. It’s located behind the Temple of Jupiter.

Bar Sgambati : €€ | Quick Snack —This is the Bar/ Restaurant/ Pizzeria right next to the train station where you get off to visit Pompeii. The food and prices are average, but this is your best bet to get something to eat in the area before or after your trip to the archeological site.

Here Is Where to Stay in the Most Popular Italian Destinations

Rome , Florence , Venice , the Amalfi Coast , and Capri

Best Hotels & Where to Stay

About Brandon Shaw

Brandon is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He left the States to travel the world at 18 and never looked back! As an official Tour Guide of Rome and Certified Sommelier, he loves to travel the world and share these experiences with his readers.

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Institutional Portal of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii

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Guided tours

INFO for visitors: Guided tours can be requested at the entrances to the site of Pompeii at Piazza Esedra and Porta Marina between 9.00 am and 3.00 pm. Through its concessionary, the Archaeological Park is exclusively responsible for dealing with requests for guided tours. The service is provided by qualified freelance guides who can be recognised by their badges. The prices, routes and durations of visits are agreed directly with the guides.

Groups that wish to visit the archaeological site of Pompeii, Villa Arianna and San Marco as well as the Libero D’Orsi Archaeological Museum at Stabiae, the Villa of Poppaea at Oplontis and the Villa Regina and Antiquarium at Boscoreale, that the size of these groups is regulated as follows:

• Pre-organised groups (tour operators / parishes / associations/ CRAL / company recreational initiatives and others) are permitted up to a maximum of 35 individuals if the group is equipped with earphones or ‘whisper’ systems, but are limited to a maximum of 15 individuals if the group does not have earphones or ‘whisper’ systems.
• For schools, class groups up to a maximum of 35 people (including accompanying individuals) are permitted without earphones or ‘whisper’ systems;
• Additional limitations on visitor group numbers may be imposed in smaller buildings or areas, or in case of particularly high visitor numbers, as advised by the Park Staff

INFO for guides: For the initial registration at the guide station, it is necessary to send the request to [email protected], attaching the valid guide licence and a passport photo.

What to See in Pompeii: Best Ruins & Self-Guided Tour of Pompeii Route & Map!

Posted on Last updated: January 11, 2024

Planning to visit Pompeii, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place!

Pompeii is a huge archaeological site, covering over 12 km squared. With so much to see and do in Pompeii, planning a visit there can be daunting.

After all, how do you decide what to see in Pompeii? Which ruins are the most important and significative ones? What parts of this ancient city you absolutely can’t miss?

In this article, I will tell you just that! Including a map of the Pompeii ruins, and details of all the best spots to visit, this article will help you make the most of a self-guided tour of Pompeii.

So what are you waiting for, let’s dive in, and start planning the perfect Pompeii trip! 

• 1 What is Pompeii
• 2 Can you visit Pompeii without a tour?
• 3 Map of Pompeii ruins
• 4.1 Park at Parking Zeus & start at Porta Marina
• 4.2 Sanctuary of Apollo
• 4.3 Foro di Pompeii
• 4.4 House of the Faun
• 4.5 Lupanare di Pompeii
• 4.6 Terme Stabiane
• 4.7 Teatro Grande
• 4.8 Gladiator Barracks
• 4.9 House of Menander
• 4.10 House of Ceii
• 4.11 Garden of the Fugitives
• 4.12 Amphitheatre of Pompeii 
• 4.13 House of Venus in the Shell
• 5 Best Pompeii tours
• 6 Where to stay to visit Pompeii
• 7 What to pack for Pompeii
• 8 Do you need travel insurance to visit Pompeii?

Unique views of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Italy

Columns of the Foro di Pompeii framing Mount Vesuvius in the background

What is Pompeii

The ruins of Pompeii are what remains of a once bustling Roman city in the Bay of Naples, southern Italy. It was a busy trading port with a population of around 20,000.

A fully-fledged city, it boasted an amphitheatre, a forum, baths, temples, and public fountains. There were even holiday villas in the suburbs.

But in the year 79 AD, the nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted, creating a catastrophic event that rained down volcanic ash and pumice across the area. Temperatures rose to an incredible 300 degrees.

Those who didn’t flee were killed and buried in 6 metres of ash that erased the city.   It was all written down by Roman historian Pliny the Younger.  

Fast-forward to 1594, and the ruins were discovered thanks to excavations by architect Domenico Fontana, who stumbled across them by chance.

In 1748, proper excavations of Pompeii, Italy, began. Today Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amazingly, new finds are still being uncovered here.

It’s a must-see on many Italy itineraries and bucket lists , and it’s easy to see why.

View of the Centauro di Igor Mitoraj, the Foro di Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in the background

Can you visit Pompeii without a tour?

Yes, it is possible to visit Pompeii without a guide, and it’s actually what we did on our last visit.

However, I wouldn’t say that it’s the best way to visit Pompeii. It’s much better to visit Pompeii with a local guide , as they will take you to all the best ruins, and tell you everything about them.

A knowledgeable guide will give you all the important historical facts and anecdotes that you just wouldn’t know otherwise, plus also show you some lesser-known or off-the-beaten-track sights.

Given the size of the archaeological site (it’s absolutely huge; they’re still excavating it), it’s really not a good idea to go in without any prior knowledge at all.

Otherwise, you’ll just be wandering aimlessly around the 170-acre site without knowing the best parts of the Pompeii ruins. Which is pretty much what we did.

Click here to book your guided tour of Pompeii!

Mount Vesuvius as seen from the Gladiator Barrack’s of Pompeii

After entering Pompeii and realising just how big it was, we started wandering around aimlessly, and then hiding in the little shade provided by Ancient Roman columns during a hot Italian summer , trying to Google on our phones where to go within the site.

Don’t be like us, and book yourself a guided tour around Pompeii with an archaeologist like this one , and save yourself the headache.

That said, that’s not to say you can’t go on a self-guided tour of Pompeii. We did after all, and it was still a very enjoyable day.

So if you’re interested in knowing the best ruins to visit on a DIY walking tour of this ancient site, here’s what to see in Pompeii ruins.

Don’t miss out, check out prices & availability for your Pompeii tour with an archaeologist here!

Tourist mode on while exploring Pompeii in Italy

Map of Pompeii ruins

Before we jump into the details of the most important ruins to visit in Pompeii, it’s good to see a map of where the ruins are in the archaeological site.

The Pompeii archaeological site covers an area of 163 acres, and there are loads of ruins within that. In the map below I’ve marked the best preserved, most interesting or most historically significant ruins of Pompeii.

I’ve also marked in yellow Parking Zeus and the Porta Marina entrance, so you can easily see where to start your Pompeii self-guided tour.

What to see in Pompeii  

Here are some of the top Pompeii attractions to see on your DIY visit to this relic of ancient Rome.

Park at Parking Zeus & start at Porta Marina

My tip is to start your trip at Parking Zeus and then head to the nearest entrance. Go to the official entrance gates to buy tickets (not from the sellers outside!), or purchase them online beforehand .

On the short walk from Parking Zeus to the Pompeii Entrance you will come across at least two different ticket resellers.

While they will still get you into Pompeii, these aren’t official tickets, and are usually 2-3 EUR more than the official Pompeii ticket price.

At the main entrance and official ticket office you can also pick up a map of the Pompeii ruins, and also hire a guide if you’re not feeling up to exploring the site alone. 

After the ticket entrance you will walk through Porta Marina, and officially enter the Pompeii archaeological park.

Skip the line, and book your Pompeii fast track ticket here!

Entering the archaeological site of Pompeii from Porta Marina

Sanctuary of Apollo

Start your list of places to visit in Pompeii with the Temple of Apollo. Dating back to 120 BC, it’s dedicated to the Roman deity Apollo, and is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city.

There’s evidence that shows that a temple has been on this site as far back as the 6 th century BC.

Its location is particularly important, being situated on the path that leads to the Marina Gate – the route into the centre of the city.

Today not much remains except for some columns still standing, as well as steps and ruined walls. Mount Vesuvius is easily visible from here.

The Santuario di Apollo in Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Foro di Pompeii

Close by is the Foro di Pompeii, or the Forum of Pompeii. The Foro is one the best things to see in the Pompeii ruins, not least for its importance.

This would have once been the centre of public life in the city. All sorts of activities would have taken place here: markets, administration, speeches, and gatherings for festivals.

There would have been important buildings lining the Fourm, including bathhouses, theatres, and a basilica, to name a few.

Between the 3 rd and 2 nd centuries BC, the Roman Forum was renovated with new paving slabs and porticoes. Standing there today you can imagine the people of Pompeii gathering and going about their daily errands.

The Foro di Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Exploring the Foro di Pompeii

House of the Faun

Follow your ruins of Pompeii map to the House of the Faun. This is a Pompeii must-see and one of the most popular places to visit in the whole site.

Dating back to the 2 nd century BC, it was the most lavish villa in the city and covered an area of 3,000 square metres.

Today it lies in ruins, of course, but there are traces of its former elegance still visible. The layout, for one thing, is still intact, so you can see the sheer scale of the place.

Many interesting artworks were uncovered here, but they are in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.

At the centre of the villa, you’ll find a copy of the statue of a faun (a half-deer, half-human creature) that was found here, which gives the villa its name.

Some of the beautiful affresco paintings in Pompei

Lupanare di Pompeii

Amongst the most infamous highlights of Pompeii is the Lupanare, or brothel, which you’ll find two blocks or so from the Forum.

Pompeii was closely associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of sex and love, and so there were once actually many brothels located in Pompeii.

This one was the largest, featuring 10 rooms that were simply furnished with a mattress placed on a raised brick platform.

One of the most interesting things about this place is the wall paintings and erotic art that has been found decorating the walls of the brothel.

Pompeii was a naval city, with ships from all over the Mediterranean docking here. Not all sailors spoke Latin, therefore the walls of brothels were covered in erotic paintings, so that sailors could point to the service they wanted.

Exploring the Santuario di Apollo in Pompeii, Italy

Exploring the Gladiator Barracks at the Quadriportico dei Teatri in Pompeii, with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Terme Stabiane

Not far from the Lupanare is the impressive Terme Stabiane. These baths are the biggest and oldest of the five bath complexes that once dotted Pompeii.

Dating back to 125 BC, the Stabian Baths are actually one of the oldest surviving examples of ancient public baths.

Different areas are still discernable today, such as the changing rooms, the tepidarium, the frigidarium and caldarium.

There’s even the remains of a swimming pool, and you can still see the sign for the male and female entrances.

The Terme Stabiane in Pompeii, Italy

Teatro Grande

The Theatre of Pompeii was the largest theatre in the city. Built in the 2 nd century BC, it had enough room for around 5,000 people to sit in its stands.

In fact, it was the first stone theatre to be built in the Roman world, so seeing it is definitely one of the best things to do in Pompeii. It’s literally a slice of theatre history.  

Making up other parts of the building is the odeon, a smaller theatre built in 80 BC with room for around 1,500 people. Don’t miss the Quadriporticus, which was used by the audience to walk between events.

Exploring the Teatro Grande of Pompeii

Exploring the Teatro Grande of Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Gladiator Barracks

The Gladiator Barracks was the centre of gladiatorial life in Pompeii. The complex was used for training gladiators and features a Quadriporticus, too, just like the Teatro Grande.

There are various inscriptions on the walls, which illustrate not just everyday life for gladiators but also mythological and hunting scenes.

Exploring the Gladiator Barracks at the Quadriportico dei Teatri in Pompeii

House of Menander

The House of Menander showcases how the elite citizens of Pompeii lived. Once home to a very wealthy family, and set in what was a business area of the city, this impressive townhouse covers an area of 1,800 square metres.

It was an expression of status and featured a whole lot of luxury – think Corinthian columns, gardens, and sumptuous frescoes.  

Interestingly, the house was actually undergoing renovations during the time of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Archaeologists know this because precious items such as silverware were in storage, and there were only a few household staff on duty at the time.

The beautiful courtyard of House of Menander in Pompeii, Italy

House of Ceii

It’s believed that the House of Ceii belonged to a wealthy magistrate called Lucius Ceius Secundus. The house is smaller in size than that of Menander or the Casa del Fauno, but is still luxuriously decorated.

Here you’ll be able to see eye-catching frescoes in the garden; these depict landscapes, hunting scenes, Egyptian themes (including a depiction of the River Nile), and wild beasts.

The beautiful paintings and affrescos of Casa dei Ceii in Pompeii, Italy

Garden of the Fugitives

The Garden of the Fugitives is one of the most important things to see in Pompeii. Here you can see the final resting places of 13 unfortunate inhabitants of the city, who were killed trying to flee the cataclysmic eruption.

At the time, the area was a vineyard where people would gather for banquets. The casts of 13 victims of the volcanic eruption can be seen encased in glass close to the back wall of the garden.

The Garden of the Fugitives in Pompeii, Italy

Amphitheatre of Pompeii  

Dating back to 70 BC, the Amphitheatre of Pompeii is actually the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater, and one of the most important relics of the ancient Roman Empire.

It was the site for gladiatorial contests and other large-scale sporting events.

In its heyday, around 20,000 people could be crammed into this venue, which was actually built into the earth itself. It’s up there as the best of Pompeii ruins.

A number of posters and paintings on the walls of the Amphitheatre have offered up an interesting glimpse into events here.

One poster reads “Heart-throb of the Girls”, giving an insight into the pop culture of Pompeii at the time.

The Amphitheatre of Pompeii from the outside

The interior of the Amphitheatre of Pompeii in Italy

House of Venus in the Shell

This first-century BC house had many redecorations and redesigns over the years, but is named after the monumental fresco that decorates one of the walls within.

Here the goddess Venus is depicted nude, wearing a tiara and jewellery whilst reclining in a giant shell.

The house was the property of a prominent family called the Satrii, who were very influential in the latter days of Pompeii.

The beautiful affresco from which House of Venus in the Shell takes its name, in Pompeii, Italy

Best Pompeii tours

If after checking out my map and reading this article, making your way around Pompeii alone feels daunting, here are some great Pompeii tours you can join.

Pompeii: Small Group Tour with an Archeologist – This is one is great if you plan to make your own way to Pompeii, and just want an experienced guide to take you around the archeological site.

Naples or Sorrento: Full-Day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Tour – If you’re staying in Naples or Sorrento, this tour is great because it includes also the transfer, as well as a visit to Mount Vesuvius.

From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip – If your Italy itinerary doesn’t allow for a night around Pompeii and you’re visiting on a day trip from Rome , this tour is the best way to visit Pompeii.

Amalfi Coast: Pompeii, Vesuvius, & Wine Tasting with Lunch – Besides the transfers from/to the Amalfi Coast, this guided tour also includes Mount Vesuvius, lunch and a wine tasting! What more could you ask for?

Admiring the beautiful murals at the House of Venus in the Shell in Pompeii, Italy

Walking down the ancient streets of Pompeii in Italy

Where to stay to visit Pompeii

Even though Naples is closer, I would personally suggest staying on the Amalfi Coast for your Pompeii day trip .

It’s only an hour drive away, and it’s a truly stunning part of Italy. That way you can combine it to a wider Amalfi Coast itinerary , and visit also places like Capri and Positano . 

Here are some places for every budget.

Budget: Holidays Baia D’Amalfi –  While the words “budget” and “Amalfi Coast” don’t often go together, this hotel is pretty affordable and is located right by the harbour.

Click here to book your stay at Holidays Baia D’Amalfi!

Mid-range: Albergo S. Andrea   – This hotel has beautiful views over the Duomo of Amalfi. For an affordable mid-range choice, it doesn’t get much better than this!

Check out prices & availability at Albergo S. Andrea in Amalfi here!

Luxury: Le Sirenuse   – This is the luxury hotel in Positano by definition. With its gorgeous design, impeccable service, stunning views and central position, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself.

Click here to book your stay at Le Sirenuse in Positano!

Enjoying the beach, sunshine and views in Amalfi, Italy

What to pack for Pompeii

You don’t need much beyond the usual Italy travel essentials, but just so you don’t forget, here are some of the things I highly recommend packing to visit Pompeii.

Refillable water bottle – There are water fountains where you can refill in Pompeii, so bring a refillable bottle. It’s super hot in the summer months and you should definitely keep hydrated.

Hat – Especially if you visit during the summer months, Pompeii is very hot and there’s virtually no shade. A hat is a must!

Sunblock / sunscreen – With pretty much no shade, getting sunburnt is a possibility if you don’t cover up or wear sunscreen. And it’s not fun being sunburnt!

Sturdy, comfortable shoes – There’s a lot of walking around to do on a day trip to Pompeii, and with uneven cobbled roads everywhere, you’ll want some comfortable, sturdy shoes. Hiking sandals would work if that’s what you prefer.

Guidebook – In case you do opt for the DIY tour of Pompeii, I really recommend bringing along a relevant guidebook. Otherwise, you’ll find it difficult to appreciate (or even work out) what it is you’re looking at.

Walking down the cobbled streets of Pompeii, Italy

Do you need travel insurance to visit Pompeii?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Final thoughts on what to do in Pompeii

There you have it, the ultimate guide on what to see in Pompeii! Have you visited Pompeii before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

This was my third time visiting Pompeii, and it’s the time that I appreciated it the most. I’d previously visited on school trip as a pre-teen, and on a family trip as a teenager.

While I wouldn’t say I didn’t enjoy it back then, I would say that I definitely didn’t appreciate the vastness and importance of this unique historical site. It’s not every day you can visit such a well preserved Ancient Roman city!

Alongside our private sunset boat tour in Positano , hiking the Path of the Gods and our boat trip in Capri , it was one of the highlights of our time in Amalfi Coast.

It might not have the same buzz that other Italian destinations like Lake Como , Cinque Terre , Florence , Matera or Venice receive, but it’s still pretty unique and incredible.

I hope you found my Pompeii guide useful, and that it helped you figure out what to see in Pompeii. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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• Amalfi Coast

FAQ about Visiting Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Mount Vesuvius

Faq - pompeii archaeological park, how long does it take to tour the ruins at pompeii.

The ruins of Pompeii cover 44 square hectares, and it would take at least two full days to tour the entire park. Realistically, you can see most of the highlights in 4 hours and longer visits can be very tiring, especially on a hot day. You can also spend a full day exploring the park with a lunch break at one of the picnic areas in the park.

Should I book a guided tour?

We strongly recommend visiting the ruins with a guide, as the park is very large and it can be tricky to find the important sites. In addition, guides can explain interesting details and show you little-known corners of the park that make the experience more engaging and help you understand what daily life was like in the Roman city before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius . A guide will also make sure you make the best use of your time in the park, and don't waste time and energy getting lost!

How can I book a guide?

There are authorized guides at the park entrance who offer two-hour guided tours for about EUR 11/person. Authorized guides can be recognized by the wooden badges from the region of Campania worn around the neck that has a white shied with a red bar. You can join a group tour, or book a private guide in advance if you are a small group of family or friends, of if you are particularly interested in an in-depth look at the history of Pompeii.

Can tickets be purchased online? Do I need to book them in advance?

Especially during summer and at the weekends you are likely to face with long queues to enter the site. For this reason we recommend buying in advance online tickets to avoid the line. Skip-the-line tickets for Pompeii .

Where can I leave by bags?

Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the park for security reasons (maximum size is 30x30x15). There are free baggage checks at the entrance to the ruins, and at the Porta Marina Superiore entrance there is an automated system that prints a receipt with a code to claim your bags when you leave.

Can I visit Pompeii with a small child?

It is hard to get around Pompeii with a stroller or pushchair and, unless you choose to limit the visit to the accessible route (see below), we suggest opting for a baby carrier or backpack. There are Baby Points in Pompeii where you can stop to change or feed your infant in privacy.

Are there special routes for the disabled?

From the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance at Pompeii, you can take the three-kilometer trail specifically for wheelchairs or strollers that includes the amphitheater, gym, and a few houses.

Can I bring my pet inside the park?

Large dogs are not allowed inside the archaeological park, but small dogs on a leash and picked up while inside the homes can be brought inside the park.

Can I have a picnic?

Yes, there are a number of picnic areas inside the park where you can eat a packed lunch or food purchased from the cafeteria near the forum area.

Where can I see what has been unearthed inside the homes excavated in Pompeii and Herculaneum?

Most of the artifacts found at the archaeological sites are now displayed at the Naples Archaeological Museum , where there is also the "gabinetto segreto" holding the erotic artifacts found in Pompeii, which is closed to minors.

Guide to visiting the ruins of Pompeii Getting to Pompeii Ruins Day trips and tours at Pompeii

FAQ - Herculaneum Archaeological Park

How long does it take to visit the ruins at herculaneum.

To visit Herculaneum , you should consider about half a day. You can see the entire archaeological park in about two to three hours. Herculaneum vs Pompeii .

Do I need a guide to visit the ruins?

It's always a good idea to book a private guide or join a group tour at the entrance to the park to fully understand the ruins and the history of this ancient city. That said, there is a good audio guide at Herculaneum that is helpful for touring the small park without a guide.

Can I buy tickets online? Is it necessary to buy them in advance?

Herculaneum is smaller and definitely less crowded than Pompeii. Anyway, in case you got just a few hours for visiting the site, we suggest saving your time and purchase tickets to Herculaneum in advance to skip the line. Skip-the-line tickets for Herculaneum .

Is there a bag check at the park?

Yes, you can leave your bags at the free bag check at the park entrance.

Can I visit Herculaneum with a small child?

The Roman roads and sidewalks are hard to navigate with a stroller or pushchair, so we recommend using an infant carrier or backpack.

Can I eat inside the park?

No, there are no picnic areas inside the Herculaneum park, or snack bars and cafés. We suggest stopping at one of the restaurants or bars just outside the park for a meal.

Unfortunately, there are no special routes for the disabled inside the Herculaneum archaeological park, but you can easily navigate the walkway that encircles the ruins with a wheelchair and view the excavated sites from above.

Can I take photos and videos?

You can take photos and videos inside both Pompeii and Herculaneum for private use and without a flash. The use of tripods must be approved by the park supervisor.

Guide to visiting Herculaneum Getting to Herculaneum Ruins Day trips and tours at Herculaneum

FAQ - Mount Vesuvius National Park

How long does it take to visit mount vesuvius.

It takes about three hours to visit Mount Vesuvius , considering departing from the ticket office on foot up the trail to the crater rim. We suggest putting aside at least half a day, including transportation to the ticket office and the hike. If you combine your visit with a stop at Pompeii or Herculaneum, hike up Mount Vesuvius first thing in the morning and visit the archaeological sites in the afternoon.

How do I reach the crater on the peak of Mount Vesuvius?

You can take a bus or shuttle up Mount Vesuvius from the Circumvesuviana Villa dei Misteri or Ercolano Scavi stops. Buses stop at the trail head up to the crater, and from there you can continue with a mountain guide.

Can anyone hike up to the crater rim?

Yes, even children, the elderly, or those with limited mobility. The hike is not recommended for those with serious health issues, however. When is the best time of year to visit Mount Vesuvius? The best times are spring and fall. In the winter months, the trail may be closed for inclement weather and in the summer the high temperatures can make the hike up unpleasant.

Are there snack bars along the trail?

There are snack bars at the entrance and along the trail that sell beverages and food at reasonable prices. They also offer restrooms (there are no public restrooms in the park). There are also picnic areas along the trail where you can stop and eat your packed lunch.

What should I wear to hike up Mount Vesuvius?

We suggest comfortable clothing and dressing in layers, sturdy hiking or athletic shoes, sunscreen and a hat... especially in the summer months when temperatures can soar. A walking stick and a windbreaker can also be handy.

Guide to visiting Mount Vesuvius Getting to Mount Vesuvius Day trips and tours at Mount Vesuvius National Park

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Is the vesuvius crater accessible to people with disabilities.

The climb to the Gran Cono is not recommended for people with walking problems and general motor difficulties. The track is uphill, and the terrain is rough. Path 11 of the Vesuvius National Park, which does not reach the crater but is immersed in a pine forest and surrounded by the scents of the Mediterranean scrub, was designed specifically for the needs of visitors with motor or visual disabilities.

Further information on the Park's trail map .

• Naples Attractions
• Antiquarium
• Pompeii Brothels
• Herculaeum Ruins

Plan Your Visit

• Skip the Line Tours
• Guided Tours
• Restaurants
• Rome to Pompeii Day Trips
• Things To Do
• Pompeii Day Trips
• Pompeii from Rome & Naples
• Herculaneum Tickets
• Royal Palace of Naples
• Museo Di Capodimonte

Mount Vesuvius

• Villa Pignatelli
• Naples National Archaeological Museum
• Certosa di San Martino
• Catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples Tickets
• Città della Scienza
• Bourbon Tunnel
• Naples Underground
• Artecard Naples City Pass
• Veiled Christ
• Alibus Airport Transfers
• Castel Sant'Elmo
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises

Pompeii Tickets & Tours

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Pompeii Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Join an expert guide for a deep dive into Pompeii's history, offering a richer, more meaningful experience than a standard ticket.
• Notice the details of statues and frescos sprinkled through the town, along with 4 public baths and 25 street fountains.
• Traverse the well-preserved streets and structures that weave tales of Pompeii's daily life. Select an archeologist guide for further context!
• With an extensive selection of languages, get personalized expertise in your mother tongue.
• Guided tour of Pompeii with skip-the-line entry
• Expert English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese or Japanese-speaking guide (as per option selected)
• Archaeologist guide (optional)
• Small group up to 15 (optional English tour only)
• Tip: Check out the House of the Tragic Poet, known for its famous cave canem (beware of the dog) mosaic. Ask your guide for more info about its artistic and literary heritage.
• This experience is partially accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
• Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for people with impaired mobility and cardiac issues.
• The fee for the excavation sites of Pompeii is free for all first Sundays of the month.
• To avoid disruptions or possible denied entry, avoid bringing large purses, bags, or backpacks on your tour.
• Strict dress code: No discourteous clothing or shirtless attire is allowed inside Pompeii Archaeological Park.

Pompeii Tickets

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Get the flexibility to plan your Pompeii visit with these entry tickets, a convenient choice for travelers who prefer independent exploration.
• Discover renowned landmarks such as the Forum, amphitheater, and well-preserved frescoes, all within the walls of this vast ancient city.
• Frozen in time, stroll this archaeological site to peek into the daily life of the Romans: how they prayed, loved, and died!
• Add more fun to your cart with MAP tickets! Walk the streets like a Roman protagonist and watch the fury of Mt Vesuvius in 3D.
• Entry to Pompeii
• Entry to the Ancient Pompeii Virtual Museum (optional)
• Information brochure map (optional)
• Guide book (optional)
• Map of the site (optional)
• Entry to Villa of the Mysteries
• Tip: While the Amphitheater is famous, don't miss the nearby Teatro Piccolo, which was likely used for more intimate performances like comedy and poetry readings.
• Big dogs (above the weight 10kg and the height of 40cm) are not allowed into the venue. Guide dogs with the proper certification are welcome.
• Facilities: cloakroom, luggage storage. Head to the Superiore Entrance to make use of the onsite luggage facilities.

Combo (Save 5%): Pompeii + Herculaneum Tickets

• Combine your visit to 2 ancient towns preserved under the ash of Mt. Vesuvius! Get tickets to the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Bypass the queues at Herculaneum as you learn of its intellectual traditions at places like the Villa of Papyri, where 1st-century philosophy scrolls were found.
• Discover everyday objects at Pompeii, an amphitheater, public baths, and other sites that will give you a glimpse of the life of ancient Romans.
• The preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature excavated ruins of streets and houses that you can freely explore.
• Skip-the-line entry to Herculaneum
• Tip: Try to observe the different tiling trends in Pompeii and Herculaneum. While the former had colorful mosaics, the latter had more black and white designs.
• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. Entry is free for people with disabilities and an accompanying adult.
• Facilities: restroom, cloak room.

Herculaneum

• Dogs are allowed into the venue, without restriction of breed or size. However, they must be kept with a leash and/or muzzle (the latter is obligatory for all breeds and opportunities provided by current regulations). Pet parents must have bags to collect any droppings.
• In the Antiquarium, inside the Padiglione della Barca and in the domus with mosaic floors, access is allowed only to dogs carried in their arms or in the appropriate carrier.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Pompeii Tickets with Audio Guide

• In the mood for a walk through ancient Roman life? Get access to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Pompeii and learn more with an audio guide.
• Keep an eye out for some must-see spots, like the bathhouses dating back to 125 BC and the Temple of Apollo, where centuries-old ceramics were found.
• At the historic Amphitheater, where gladiator fights were hosted, see the fresco depicting the 59 AD battle between Pompeiians and Nucerians.
• Put on your headphones, and let the multilingual audio guide regale you with tales about how ancient inhabitants lived before the ill-fated eruption.
• Audio guide in Italian, English, French, Spanish & German
• Tip: Don't miss the exhibition that displays the artifacts found by archaeologists in Pompeii.

From Sorrento: Pompeii Guided Tour with Optional Vesuvius Visit

• Based in Sorrento? This option is for you! Take advantage of round trip transfers and get ready to dive into the action.
• Join an expert guide on a journey through the ancient streets of Pompeii, where history comes to life as you explore the exceptionally preserved ruins.
• Customize your adventure with the option to add a visit to Mount Vesuvius, providing a unique 360° perspective along its craters.
• Absorb captivating stories of routine life in Pompeii at landmarks like the Forum Baths, provision stores called Macellum, the Temple of Jupiter, and more!
• Round-trip transfers from Sorrento to Pompeii
• Local charismatic guide
• Headsets for groups above 10
• Entry to Vesuvius (optional)
• Tip: Explore the Villa of Diomedes, a site that's often overlooked, featuring well-preserved rooms and a beautiful garden.
• Facilities: cloakroom, luggage storage.
• Head to the Superiore Entrance to make use of the onsite luggage facilities.
• Only small dogs on a leash can be brought inside the park. Guide dogs are permitted (with a certificate).

From Naples: Pompeii Guided Tour with Optional Herculaneum or Vesuvius Visit

• Starting your adventure from Naples? Join a day trip to Pompeii and explore the site under the guidance of a local expert.
• Tailor your experience by selecting an optional visit to Herculaneum to see well-preserved architecture featuring stylish mosaics and plunge pools.
• Or, scale the summit of Mount Vesuvius, a scenic trek on which you can spot unique wildlife, from beech martens to Turkish Geckos.
• Listen to the riveting history of Pompeii as you walk through the Garden of Fugitives in the language you pick – English, Spanish, or French!
• Enjoy the convenience of organized transportation from Naples to Pompeii and back, ensuring a smooth and enriching exploration of these iconic sites.
• Guided tour of Pompeii with entry
• Round-trip transfers from Naples
• English, Spanish or French-speaking guide (as per option selected)
• Entry to Herculaneum (optional)
• Tip: Don't rush off! Make the most out of your visit and hang back to explore more of the ruins at your own pace once the tour ends.
• Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 20 people.

From Pompeii: Mount Vesuvius & Pompeii Day Trip

• Get all-in-one access to the entire story, with entry tickets to Pompeii and a Vesuvius summit adventure!
• Convenient round-trip transfers from Pompeii make your exploration of these historic sites seamless and stress-free.
• With the help of an audio guide, uncover the secrets of this ancient Roman settlement and explore the remarkably preserved city of Pompeii at your own pace.
• Embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Vesuvius. Savor panoramic vistas of the Bay of Naples from the volcano's peak.
• Customize your experience by including a visit to Herculaneum, or have an expert guide accompany you on a small-group tour to the ruins of Pompeii.
• Round-trip transfers from Pompeii to Mount Vesuvius
• Entry to Mount Vesuvius
• Audio guide for Pompeii in Italian, English, French, Spanish & German
• Expert archaeologist guide to Pompeii ruins (optional)
• Small group tour: up to 20 guests at Pompeii & 8 guests at Vesuvius (optional)
• Tip: Plan ahead! There is a lot to see at Pompeii and Herculaneum, some of the sites can be easy to miss. Be sure to prioritize what you want to see.

Top things to do in Naples

Pompeii | Preserved ancient Roman city frozen in time

Pompeii was a vibrant blue-collar town until the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79 covered it under a thick carpet of volcanic ash and reduced it to ruins and debris. Today, what is left of the ancient city of Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique window into the daily life of a bustling Roman city. Discover the secrets of Pompeii, learn about its history, and find the perfect ticket for an unforgettable journey into the past.

Things to know before buying Pompeii tickets

• If you're booking a standard entry ticket , then it's best to purchase a map/information brochure so you don't miss out. The signages and explanations are neither evenly distributed throughout the ruins nor are comprehensive enough. Another alternative to the standard ticket is booking the audio guide tour with Pompeii Tickets with Audio Guide for a more insightful experience. Choose the commentary among Italian, English, French, Spanish or German.
• Do ensure your ticket covers all the attractions within Pompeii , as some tickets (like the standard entry ticket) doesn't offer access to some highlights like the Villa of the Mysteries.
• The best option is to book a guided tour for a truly enriching experience of this famed landmark. The Pompeii guided tour you're part of could even be a cozy, tight-knit group of less than 15 people, if you choose the small-group option.
• If you want to enhance the site experience further, consider booking a tour guided by an archeologist. Their expertise will help you gather information beyond the ruins to their preservation, composition, restoration and more. You can check out this ticket if you wish to take this tour.
• Book combo tours to Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum for a more comprehensive understanding of the region's history and the impact of the 79 AD eruption. Combo tours are also cost-effective; it works out to be cheaper if you have a single ticket as opposed to buying individual entry tickets to each of these attractions.
• Got a full day? Make the most of it by booking day trips from Naples or Sorrento. Catch not only Pompeii but also Herculaneum or Mount Vesuvius (depending on your ticket option) and get everything covered — from transport to availing a guided tour.
• In Pompeii, ongoing excavations and preservation efforts mean that some areas might unexpectedly open or close. Some buildings might also be visible only from the outside. Keep tabs on this information so you know what to expect on your tour.

Booking guide: Find the best Pompeii ticket for you

-Access to Pompeii -Explore independently -Optional map/informational brochure (€9 upwards) -Optional entrance to Virtual Museum of Pompeii (€25 upwards) -Duration: 7.5 hr - 12 hr

Cheapest option, allowing you to explore at your own pace and delve deeper into specific area

Not applicable

-Access to Pompeii -Fast-track entry -Professional, multilingual tour guide -Duration: 2 hr

Maximize time & enjoy a structured tour at a competitive price

English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Japanese

-Access to Pompeii -Audio guide -Duration: Flexible

Budget-friendly option to explore independently at your own pace, and with informative commentary

Italian, English, French, Spanish & German

-Access to Pompeii -Fast track entry to Herculaneum -Duration: Flexible

Discounted way to visit both Pompeii and Herculaneum

-Day trip to Pompeii -Round-trip shuttle transfers from Naples -Professional, multilingual tour guide -Optional Mount Vesuvius or Herculaneum visit (€55 upwards) -Duration: 4 hr

For a comprehensive tour of the Vesuvian area with convenience of transfers from Naples on a budget

English, Spanish

-Day trip to Pompeii -Round-trip shuttle transfers from Sorrento -Professional tour guide -Optional Vesuvius or Herculaneum visit (+€60 / +€75 upwards) -Duration: 8 hr

For a comprehensive day trip with transfers for travelers based in Sorrento

-Access to Pompeii -Access to Mount Vesuvius -Round-trip shuttle transfers from Pompeii -Optional guided tour at Pompeii (€42 upwards) -Optional Herculaneum visit (€41 upwards) -Duration: 5 hr - 7 hr

Explore both Pompeii and Vesuvius with transfers using a single ticket

Explore the ruins at Pompeii

Temple of Apollo

Dedicated to the Greek and Roman god Apollo, the temple has 48 Ionic columns and stands on a high podium. In this compound, you will find a bronze statue of Apollo archer and the bust of Diana in the original locations that they were in before it was buried under debris.

Villa of the Mysteries

The site is fabled for its wall frescos which are believed to illustrate the initiation of a young woman into a Greco-Roman mystery cult. It was discovered in 1910 and is said to have belonged to the Istacidii’s, a wealthy family that resided in Pompeii during the Augustan Era.

The House of the Tragic Poet

Also known as the Homeric House or The Iliadic House, this is 2nd Century villa is deemed to have the best interiors amongst all the houses in Pompeii due to the still-visible frescoes and elegant decor. Archaeologist Antonio Bonucci excavated the house in 1824.

The Temple of Isis

Dedicated to Isis, an Egyptian goddess, this was one of the first sites that surfaced when the Pompeii excavations began. Principal devotees of the temple are believed to be women, slaves, and freedmen. It used as a forum for social, political, and economic gatherings.

Pompeii Spectacula

Pompeii Spectacula, the amphitheater of Pompeii, dates back to around 70 BC. It is not only the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater made of stone but also predates the Colosseum in Rome by over a century!

Stabian Baths

The Stabian Baths stand close to the Forum and are the oldest in the city. It is evidently divided into 2 sections along the same axis: male and female, with a courtyard gym. Much like other Roman baths, there were different rooms with thermal pools of different temperatures and depths.

House of the Vettii

Spanning an entire block, the House of Vettii is one of the largest in Pompeii, preserved in almost pristine condition. This luxurious Domus, through its fresco and pictorial depictions, tells a great deal about the rich merchants of Pompeii. It is said that the brothers Aulo Vettio Restituto and Aulo Vettio Conviva who owned the house, had the walls decorated by one of the best painters in Pompeii in order to flaunt their status symbol.

House of the Faun

Also known as Casa del Fauno, this house was built during the 2nd century BC and is found to be one of the largest and most impressive private residences in Pompeii. This luxurious aristocratic household was home to several famed pieces of art like the legendary Alexander Mosaic, and speaks a great deal about the lives of the rich Romans. It houses 2 atriums, one intended for residence and the other for work.

Forum of Pompeii

The Forum was the hub of cultural and political life in Pompeii. It housed the marketplace, bathhouses, and a unique, cross-shaped courthouse that later influenced European churches. Despite the ruins, Pompeii's grandeur and elegance live on through its intricate architecture and town designs.

Plan your visit to Pompeii

1 April to 31 October : 9am to 7pm (Last entry: 5.30pm) 1 November to 31 March : 9am to 5pm (Last entry: 3.30pm) Closed: December 25, May 1, and January 1 Duration: Ideally, it would take two days to complete an entire tour of the ruins; however, you can tour the major parts of the town within a day.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Pompeii is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it comfortable for exploring the archaeological site.

Address: 80045 Pompei, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

Find on Maps

Getting There

• By Train: Circumvesuviana Napoli-Sorrento line, Circumvesuviana Napoli-Poggiomarino line, Train FS Napoli-Salerno Nearest Stop: Pompei Villa dei Misteri Station for Porta Marina and Piazza Esedra entrances
• By Bus: SITA from Napoli and Salerno, BUSITALIA Campania n. 4 from Salerno, BUSITALIA Campania n. 50 express coach from Salerno (by motorway) Nearest Stop: Pompei Piazza Esedra Stop
• By Car: Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno, exit at Pompeii Ovest Car Parking: Pompeii Ruins Parking , about 400 meters away.

There are three primary entrances to enter Pompeii:

1. Porta Marina: The main entrance to Pompeii, located directly across the road from the Pompeii Scavi train station.

2. Piazza Anfiteatro: Located to the east of Pompeii, this entrance is a 15-minute walk from Porta Marina. It is considered the best entrance for sightseeing.

3. Piazza Esedra: Although not very far from the Porta Marina entrance, the Piazza Esedra entrance is much less crowded and primarily used for group tours.

• Information office
• Refreshment points
• Cloakroom service at the Porta Marina entrance (bags larger than 30x30x15 cms not allowed)
• Smoking area
• Baby changing facilities
• Toilet facilities at the Porta Anfiteatro and Porta Marina entrances, the Pompeii Restaurant, and a few others.

• Valid tickets are required for entry; if there are any issues, please report to security.
• Follow on-site rules: no littering, respect artifacts and no disruptive behavior.
• No professional recording equipment allowed without permission.
• Dogs over 10 kg aren't permitted, except for service dogs with a disability certificate.
• Criminal offenses include damage, refusal to show documents, threats and indecency.
• Violators face administrative penalties and removal from the park.
• Groups must follow designated paths; max visitor limit is 15,000 at a time.
• Visitors with mobility issues or health concerns should take caution due to the vast space and uneven terrain.

• Read up on Pompeii's history beforehand to enrich your visit. Understanding its significance enhances the experience.
• Plan to spend at least 3 hours in Pompeii to explore comfortably. Rushing through might lessen the experience. Setting aside a full morning or afternoon is advisable.
• That said, balance your time at Pompeii to avoid 'ruin fatigue' — tours typically last 2-4 hours, striking a balance for an informative and enjoyable visit, especially in the intense summer heat.
• Stay alert for pickpocketing, notably around the train line linking Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and Naples. Also, exercise caution around the site's entrances as some businesses might offer deceptive information or aggressively promote their services.
• Choose the entrance based on your needs. Porta Marina offers more facilities, while Piazza Anfiteatro is ideal for independent exploration.
• Wear comfortable attire, bring water, wear sunscreen, and choose appropriate footwear for a comfortable visit.

Pompeii Scavi Café: This is the only restaurant within the walls of Pompeii, allowing visitors to refuel during their visit. However, it tends to be on the pricier side.

If you want to instead visit an eatery outside the ruins, here are a few options for you:

• La Cantina di Plinio: Take a short walk to the La cantina di Plinio , where you can enjoy some delicious pasta.
• Ristorante President Pompei: Enjoy a range of cuisines including Italian, Neapolitan, Campania, and Southern-Italian, with special diets catered for such as vegetarian-friendly, vegan options, and gluten-free options here .
• Sofì : You can enjoy some great cocktails and live music at this dinner and DJ bar.

• Budget: Hotel Zeus , Hotel Vittoria , Hotel Calypso
• Mid-Range: Hotel del Sole , Hotel Diana
• Luxury: Resort & Winery Bosco De Medici , Hotel Forum

Beyond Pompeii

The volcano responsible for preserving Pompeii and Herculaneum is a must-visit for its historical significance and breathtaking views. The hike to the crater offers a unique opportunity to understand the geological forces that shaped these ancient cities. All Pompeii tickets do not include a tour of the volcano; you would have to book tickets that include a tour of Mount Vesuvius specifically.

A wealthier town compared to Pompeii, Herculaneum offers a different perspective on ancient Roman life. Its smaller size and better preservation, especially of wooden structures and household items, provide a more intimate and detailed look into the domestic life of the Romans, making it a must-visit. Book a tour of Herculaneum to gain an interesting insight into the lifestyle and culture of its people.

Frequently asked questions about Pompeii Tickets

Standard Pompeii ticket includes entry into the ancient city of Pompeii. You can stay for as long as you like and explore the ruins from one end to the other. Depending on the experience you choose, you may get return transfers between Rome or Naples and Pompeii, guided tours, or even a virtual tour that will allow you to get a unique perspective on the history of Pompeii.

Pompeii skip-the-line tickets allow you to bypass the long lines and enter Pompeii with priority access. You can save up to 2 hours that you might otherwise spend in long ticketing queues if you choose to book on-spot. Bonus: enjoy both priority entry and the expertise of a knowledgeable tour guide. Check out Pompeii Skip-the-Line Guided Tour for a smooth and hassle-free experience.

An audio guide is a great option in this case. As guides usually steer tourists along a set route, you can choose to chart your own course without missing out on crucial information by booking an audio guide tour. These audio guides are of premium quality and can be availed in Italian, English, French, Spanish or German.

The Pompeii Skip-the-Line Guided Tour is a great option to avail for first-time visitors as you not only get fast-track entry to the site, but also benefit from the knowledge and expertise of a seasoned tour guide. If you wish, you can also upgrade this same ticket to avail an archeologist instead of a guide. If you're new to the area, then booking a day trip from Naples or Sorrento will make your visit hassle-free as your transportation is taken care of, and you'll likely have a guide to assist you at the site.

Guided tours of Pompeii are led by professional guides who can provide in-depth knowledge and insights about the site's history and significance. Additionally, they often include priority access, allowing you to bypass the long lines and enter Pompeii with ease. They're also great value for money as there is so much to see at the ruins that touring them with an expert is sure to cover what you might otherwise miss. This is a great option if you're looking to avail a guided tour: Pompeii Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

The starting price for Pompeii tickets is upwards of €22. This typically includes entrance to Pompeii. However, please note that prices may vary based on additional features like guided tours and, the time of year, and other factors. It's always a good idea to check our selection of experiences for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

If you're on a budget, consider booking the standard Pompeii Tickets where you can explore the attraction on your own. Keep in mind that there won't be added benefits like skipping the lines or gaining access to a guide. However, you could upgrade your ticket to purchase a map or brochure that will make it easier for you to tour the ruins. At a steal, you can also book Combo (Save 5%): Pompeii + Herculaneum Tickets to tick off both these prime attractions in the Vesuvian region.

Yes, EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 can avail of reduced pricing on their tickets on the presentation of a valid ID. EU and non-EU citizens under the age of 18, along with permanent or contract-based teaching staff enjoy free entry into Pompeii.

The cancelation policy depends on the type of ticket you choose to book. While most tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 24-48 hours in advance, some may not offer a refund upon cancelation. Please check the specific terms before you make your reservation.

Booking Pompeii tickets online with us offers several advantages: -Competitive prices: With a comprehensive inventory, choose between a variety of tours like audio guide tours, skip-the-line tours and guided tours at the best prices. -Add-ons: Upgrade your tickets to include additional benefits like entry to the Virtual Museum, interactive maps, etc. - Guaranteed entry: Finally, during peak season, walk-in tickets may not be available, and by having tickets booked and ready before your trip, your entry to the site will be ensured. - Combo tours and day trips: You can also enhance your experience by choosing combo tours or day trips . By visiting Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum , you will gainer great insights into the Vesuvian region. - Discounts & offers: By booking online, you can also avail of some of the best discounts and special offers not available at the ticket office. - Customer service: You’ll also get 24/7  customer service on the phone, by email, or chat, allowing you to resolve any issues quickly.

A complete tour of Pompeii typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and interest. However, if you're booking a day trip, expect to set aside the whole day (7-12 hours) to travel to Pompeii, explore the ruins, possibly see another attraction like Mount Vesuvius or Herculaneum, and return to your starting point.

Pompeii can be accessed via its 3 main entrances: the Porta Marina, Piazza Esedra or Piazza Anfiteatro entrances .

Yes. Various pathways have been constructed to ensure ease of movement. Differently-abled visitors can enter Pompeii through the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance.

Book your Tickets To Pompeii Ruins ARCHAEOLOGICAL UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

 The life of the ancient city of Pompeii and of its inhabitants ended abruptly in 79 AD, when, following the eruption of Vesuvius, it was covered under about six meters of ash and lapilli.

The excavations of the city, which began in 1748 and still in progress, have brought to light this important archaeological site which, in 1997, became one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Operating Days from Monday to Sunday .

All inclusive Pompeii guided tour and ticket + map

Pompeii Private Touristic Guide

Pompeii 3 hour private guide

Pompei: Two hours happy private tour for children

Pompeii: 4H Private Guided Tour With "VILLA DEI MISTERI" Included

Pompeii skip the line ticket + guide book + map

Skip the line ticket (Partial route) Skip the line ticket

Pompeii skip the line ticket (Full route)

Full Day Tour: Pompeii and Vesuvius with Bus Transfer

Pompei Walking Guided Tour

Our reviews.

Bellissima esperienza qui a pompei con il servizio Walking tour.La guida è preparatissima ed ha dato noi la sensazione di rivivere la vecchia Pompei.2ore strabilianti.Consigliatissimo.Grazie di tutto Costanza!!

Non finiremo mai di ringraziarti per la splendida giornata passata, abbiamo rivissuto la vera storia di Pompei. Arrivederci a presto

This tour is excellent. So much history and so much to see. Our tour guide advised that many of the artifacts recovered to date have been stored at museums in Naples. Note the ruts in the paving stones and remind yourself that the romans drove there chariots over these stones for 700 years before Mt Vesuvius and the volcano ended their existence in 74 A.D.

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Nullum magnum ingenium sine mixtura dementiæ fuit

There is no great genius without a touch of insanity, haud igitur penitus pereunt quaecumque videntur, quando alit ex alio reficit natura nec ullam rem gigni patitur nisi morte adiuta aliena, not utterly then perish all things that are seen, since nature renews one thing from out another, nor suffers anything to be begotten, unless she be requited by another’s death., donec eris sospes, multos numerabis amicos: tempora si fuerint nubila, solus eris, as long as you are lucky, you will have many friends; if cloudy times come, you will be alone, felix qui potuit rerum cognoscere causas, happy is he who has been able to learn the causes of things, amantium irae amoris integratio est, the quarrels of lovers are the renewal of love, ut pictura poesis, as is painting so is poetry.

The images of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii present on this website are used by permission of the Ministry of Culture. Any reproduction or duplication of them by any means is expressly prohibited.

Weekend rundown: Here's the biggest news you missed this weekend

Rare and expensive blue shrine unearthed in Pompeii after almost 2,000 years

POMPEII, Italy — Buried and unseen for nearly 2,000 years, a sacred room has been unearthed at Pompeii with painted blue walls, a rare and expensive color in the Roman city. 

Describing it as a “very unusual thing for Pompeii,” the site’s director Gabriel Zuchtriegel told NBC News on a tour of the newly excavated site that blue “was the most expensive color” because it was difficult to make. 

“You had to import it from Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean and beyond. So it was expensive, and if you wanted to have something in blue, you had to pay more,” he said. Red, yellow and black were much easier to produce because natural materials like stone and sand were widely available, he added.  

The startling finding was first revealed to NBC News on Tuesday.

It comes from block No. 10 of Pompeii’s ninth section, a never-before excavated area of the town destroyed in the eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in 79 A.D.

Decorated with female figures representing the four seasons and portrayals of agriculture and sheep farming, the room has been “interpreted as a sacrarium, a shrine devoted to ritual activities and the storage of sacred objects,” the Archaeological Park of Pompeii said in a news release .

For wealthy politicians and business owners, an elaborate classical painting was a prime showpiece and talking point when entertaining guests.

Those who painted rooms in blue were saying, “I can afford something which is not everybody’s capacity,” Zuchtriegel said. 

Mishael Quraishi, an archeology major, is one of several students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology working on the site. Using specially adapted night vision goggles and handheld scanners, they are studying the new find.  

Describing the room as “stunning,” she said it was really rare to see such high quantities of Egyptian blue in one concentrated area. 

It was “the first synthetically manufactured pigment in human history,” said Quraishi, 21, adding that it was made from a copper source “so brass filings could be an option.” 

After putting the elements together she said they were heated at incredibly high temperatures over many hours “and then this sort of glassy type material is formed with these Egyptian blue crystals in it.”

Sophie Hay, an archaeologist who works on the site, said the fact that frescos were painted when the plaster was wet meant “the pigments were sealed into the plaster.” Had they been painted on the surface, she said it was unlikely that the color would have been so vibrant. 

Because of the ancient technique that the Romans used “we get to enjoy it today,” she added. 

Elsewhere in the room, which is around 86 square feet in size, archeologists found building materials, suggesting a redecoration was planned.

A collection of oyster shells was also discovered, likely waiting to be “finely ground to add to plaster and mortar,” the news release said.  

The excavation is part of a much larger project to help protect and preserve the excavated and unexcavated areas of Pompeii, which already include more than 13,000 rooms in 1,070 houses and apartments — deemed the largest dig in a generation.

Pompeii and nearby Herculaneum were seaside resorts favored by wealthy Romans when they were devastated by the eruption, which lasted for more than 24 hours and had the power of many thousands of nuclear bombs.

Last month, in what archeologists described as one of the most important in years, a series of striking paintings showing Helen of Troy and other Greek heroes were revealed to the public for the first time.

Discovered inside what archaeologists described as a “spectacular dining room” with unusual black walls, the remarkably well-preserved frescoes were inspired by the Trojan War, as recounted by the Greek poet Homer and featured Paris and Helen of Troy among others.  

Zuchtriegel said at least 20 or 30 guests could easily have fit into the room for lavish banquets and discussion about “culture, gossip and politics.” 

He added that the paintings “were almost like invitations to discuss Greek myths.” 

With a third of the site still buried, archaeologists are still trying to put the pieces of the Pompeii puzzle back together. 

“Two thousand years ago, someone looked at it for the last time,” said the site’s director Zuchtriegel. “Now we’re the first ones to look at it again.”

Kelly Cobiella is a correspondent based in London. She previously worked at CBS News and ABC News in London, following several years with CBS in New York, Dallas and Miami.

Laura Saravia is a producer based in London.

Newly-Unearthed Room in Pompeii Is a Breathtaking Trip Through Time

The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website.

Even though the site is thousands of years old, Pompeii is still full of surprises that are regularly unearthed to new and awaiting eyes. Even though archaeologists have worked to excavate the remains of the ruined city since the 18th century, a large portion of the city still remains buried, promising exciting discoveries at every new dig site.

Over the past year, archaeologists at Pompeii have made great strides in their progress, and last week, they revealed another fantastic find. A newly-unearthed room, notable for its unique decorations, is giving researchers an exciting look back through time into the private lives of Pompeii's wealthy elite.

Reporters from @nbcnews  recently got to tour Pompeii's freshly-unearthed "Blue Room," aptly named for its special sky-blue wall paint that has Pompeiian archaeologists raising their eyebrows. MIT student archaelogist Mishael Quraishi told NBC News that the special copper-based paint, " Egyptian Blue ," was the "first synthetically manufactured pigment in human history." It also had to be transported across the Mediterranean Sea from Egypt, a luxury only the rich could afford.

Related: Archeologists Find More Incredible Ancient Roman Ruins in Pompeii

But the room's mysteries don't stop at its pricey paint. According to NBC News ' full report, the room is decorated with female figures representing the four seasons and portrayals of agriculture and sheep farming, suggesting to archaeologists that this room was likely a sacrarium, a space devoted to sacred rites and the storage of sacred objects. What's more, archaeologists also found building materials in the room, suggesting that the owners were about to redecorate. Too bad a certain volcanic eruption derailed those plans...

The Exciting Finds of Regio IX

The "Blue Room" was discovered at Regio IX, an excavation site that has produced some of the most exciting archaeological finds from the historic city of Pompeii , particularly over the past year. Recently, archaeologists at Regio IX discovered "The Black Room," an ornate banquet hall with richly-decorated black walls. It seems like Regio IX was once "the bougie part of town" 2,000 years ago!

And that's only scratching the surface of the incredible finds from Regio IX. In January, The Art Newspaper reported that excavators at the Regio IX site had unearthed a bizarre " bakery-prison " that imprisoned the enslaved workers who baked its bread. Other reported Regio IX finds from the past year include a laundry room in the lobby of an apartment complex and a fresco painting that depicts what may very well be " pizza's 2,000-year-old ancestor "!

Regio IX is one of the most active excavation sites at Pompeii, and it's giving historians an incredible look into the private lives of its ancient Roman citizens, from the rich and famous who lived in lavish luxury to, tragically, the enslaved people who labored under them. The "Blue Room" is just one more fantastic find out of dozens from Regio IX, and the future of the archeological site has many more surprises in store!

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Pompeii excavation unveils rare 'blue room' believed to be an ancient shrine

The room has been interpreted as a sacrarium, or a Roman sanctuary.

It has been thousands of years since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius left the Roman city of Pompeii in ruins, but the ancient archaeological site continues to offer new findings.

An ornate "blue room," distinguished by depictions of female figures on the cerulean-painted walls, was newly excavated by archeologists, according to a press release from the Archaeological Parks of Pompeii earlier this month.

The room, which is nearly 90 square feet, was initially discovered during the Bourbon period (1813-1840) but was recently excavated and shown for the first time on May 27.

Experts believe some murals represent the four seasons, or "Horea." Other murals are emblems of agriculture, such as a plow and a "pedum," a short staff used by shepherds and hunters, according to the release.

The pigment of the room is particularly significant, according to experts, who noted "the color blue found in this room rarely occurs in Pompeian frescoes and was generally used for elaborately decorated rooms."

The rare blue room has been interpreted as a sacrarium, or a Roman sanctuary "devoted to ritual activities and the storage of sacred objects," experts said.

Objects discovered in the room include 15 transport amphorae, or large vases, along with a set of bronze objects consisting of two jugs and two lamps.

Additionally, archaeologists excavated piles of building materials that were ready to be used in the renovation work. A heap of empty oyster shells was also found.

The excavation of the blue room is part of a larger project to "safeguard the vast heritage" of Pompeii, which includes 13,000 rooms in 1070 residential units, as well as public and sacred areas, according to the release.

In 2018, a discovery was unearthed in a large villa that stood just outside the walls of Pompeii, far from the known archaeological area, during a joint operation of the Carabinieri of the Cultural Heritage Protection Center and Pompeii archaeological superintendence.

Archaeologists working at the site uncovered buildings with big balconies that had Pompeian red colors and geometric decorations of flowers and animals. They named it the 'Vicolo dei Balconi' (Alley of Balconies).

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