Pompeii is a rare window into Roman life inside the Pompeii Archaeological Park. Streets, houses, and frescoes froze in AD 79. The scale is vast and stirring. You walk a whole city, not a single ruin. Use this guide to visit Pompeii with clear routes, tickets, and smart tips.
Know before you go
Tickets are nominative: carry matching photo ID.
Daily cap applies; time slots Apr–Oct. Book early in peak months.
Hours: Apr–Oct 09:00–19:00 (last entry 17:30); Nov–Mar 09:00–17:00 (last entry 15:30). First Sundays are free and crowded.
Bag size limit: max 30 × 30 × 15 cm; free cloakrooms at entrances.
Single entry: plan food and breaks around your visit.
Official audioguide only; licensed tours available.
Water fountains throughout; bring a refillable bottle.
Why visit Pompeii
Pompeii Archaeological Park is UNESCO listed with good reason. It shows everyday Roman life in rich detail. You get forums, bathhouses, bakeries, shops, gardens, and theaters. Frescoes glow with color. Mosaics still sparkle. Casts of victims move many visitors. You can pair culture with sea views and nearby towns. Visit Pompeii and feel history close.
Quick highlights
The Forum and Basilica show civic life.
The Amphitheatre is among the oldest of its kind.
Stabian Baths reveal clever heating and design.
The House of the Faun is grand and elegant.
The House of the Vettii shines with vivid frescoes.
The Garden of the Fugitives holds famous casts.
Villa of the Mysteries sits outside the walls.
Antiquarium Pompeii adds context and finds.
Tickets, hours, and entry rules
Pompeii tickets are nominative. Bring a photo ID that matches your ticket name. The park limits daily visitors. This helps manage crowding. Time slots may apply in high season. Book early for spring and summer. Same‑day tickets can sell out.
Current hours
From 1 April to 31 October: 09:00–19:00 (last entry 17:30).
From 1 November to 31 March: 09:00–17:00 (last entry 15:30).
Closed on 25 December and 1 January.
Free entry on the first Sunday of each month (very busy).
Ticket types you may see
Basic Pompeii ticket for the main site.
Pompeii+ ticket that adds suburban villas.
Pompeii++ ticket for multi‑site access across days.
MyPompeii card for annual entry. Good for repeat visits.
Check prices near your travel date. Prices and bundles can change.
Bag rules and security
Pompeii bag policy is strict. Large bags are not allowed in the ruins. Small daypacks up to 30 × 30 × 15 cm are fine. Free cloakrooms operate at entrances. Pack light for easier walking.
Audioguides and tour choices
Only the official on‑site audioguide is permitted inside the park. Third‑party devices are not allowed. You can also book a licensed guide. Independent travelers should download a map before arrival to stay oriented.
Entrances and how to get to Pompeii
There are three main entrances. Porta Marina and Piazza Esedra sit by the western side. Piazza Anfiteatro sits at the east, near the Amphitheatre.
By train
Naples and Sorrento connect by Circumvesuviana trains. For the western entrances, use Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri station. It is a short walk to Porta Marina and Piazza Esedra. For the eastern entrance, use Pompei Santuario station on another Circumvesuviana branch. Trenitalia trains serve Pompei station on the Salerno line. A Pompei Link bus can connect you to the park. Always check which entrance matches your station.
Campania Express
Campania Express is a seasonal tourist train. Seats are reserved and there is space for luggage. It stops at Ercolano Scavi and Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri. It is a calmer ride than commuter services. It costs more but saves stress during peak months.
Driving and parking
Driving is possible but traffic can be heavy. Parking lots sit near each entrance. Arrive early in summer. Heat rises and spaces fill fast.
ARTEBUS shuttles for nearby sites
Pompeii Artebus links the park with nearby villas and museums on a set timetable. Stops include Piazza Esedra (departure), Boscoreale (Villa Regina/Antiquarium), Oplontis (Villa Poppaea), and Stabiae. It runs roughly from morning to early evening with a midday break.
Where to stay
Pick a base by entrance and evening vibe. Close to the gates for early starts; bigger hubs for dining and nightlife.
Best areas for a Pompeii focus
Porta Marina / Piazza Esedra (west): Steps to the Antiquarium and Forum; easy from Pompei Scavi–Villa dei Misteri; quiet at night.
Piazza Anfiteatro (east): Near Amphitheatre and Palaestra; handy for Pompeii for All; family‑friendly snacks and shade.
Pompei town centre (Sanctuary): Shops and evening strolls; walk or bus to gates.
Top Rated Hotels in Pompeii
- 🔍Habita79 Hotel Pompeii – MGallery Collection — 9.0 (502 reviews)
Modern, design-forward 4-star on Via Roma, a short walk from the archaeological park. Spa, fitness room, rooftop bar and restaurant; polished rooms and professional service. Best for couples, style seekers, and short indulgent stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: near entrance to the Pompeii Archaeological Park, town center.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, spa and wellness centre, fitness centre, two restaurants, bar, family rooms, 24-hour front desk, accessible rooms.
Why it stands out: sleek MGallery comfort with a spa and rooftop just steps from the ruins. - 🔍Hotel Vittoria — 9.2 (504 reviews)
Classic 4-star set directly by Porta Marina Inferiore, about 50 m from the ruins, offering elegant rooms and an on-site restaurant. Great for beating the queues and popping back for breaks. Best for culture-focused couples and families.
Neighborhood/landmark: Piazza Porta Marina Inferiore, main entrance to ruins.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, terrace, family rooms, 24-hour front desk, accessible rooms, tea and coffee in all rooms.
Why it stands out: unmatched doorstep access to the main entrance of Pompeii. - 🔍Hotel Forum — 9.0 (889 reviews)
Opposite the entrance to the excavations with a tranquil garden setting and highly rated breakfast. Free parking and efficient staff make it an easy, restful base. Best for couples and drivers wanting convenience.
Neighborhood/landmark: opposite the park entrance; 5-minute walk to the main piazza.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, terrace, 24-hour front desk, family rooms, accessible rooms.
Why it stands out: leafy garden oasis literally across from the ruins. - 🔍Resort & Winery Bosco De Medici — 9.0 (960 reviews)
Low-rise wine resort about 700 m from the ruins with a panoramic pool and vineyard restaurant; some rooms have patios. Relaxed vibe with tastings and family-friendly spaces. Best for couples, families, and longer, slower stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: short walk from the ruins; views toward Vesuvius.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, family rooms, airport shuttle.
Why it stands out: a proper wine-resort experience with pool and on-site tastings near Pompeii. - 🔍Hotel Diana — 9.0 (1,357 reviews)
Central Pompei stay with a leafy courtyard, free private parking, and easy access to eateries and stations, around 500 m from the ruins. Practical rooms and standout value. Best for value-minded couples, families, and rail travelers.
Neighborhood/landmark: near Santuario, close to Pompei stations, 500 m from ruins.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, bar, 24-hour front desk, family rooms, accessible rooms.
Why it stands out: great value and parking in a super-convenient in-town location.
Top Rated Farm Stays in Pompeii
- 🔍Azienda Agrituristica Vivi Natura — 7.6 (978 reviews)
Set in private grounds five minutes’ drive from the Pompeii ruins, with an outdoor pool, playground, and small animal farm. Casual rooms and a Campanian restaurant make it easy for families and relaxed trips. Best for families, drivers, and longer, kid-friendly stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Ponte Izzo, near Circumvesuviana Moregina station for Naples and Sorrento.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, restaurant, airport shuttle, bar, breakfast.
Why it stands out: a true agriturismo with animals and a pool close to the ruins. - 🔍Vesuvio Inn Bed & Wine Experience — 8.7 (1,299 reviews)
Wine-country style on the slopes above Pompeii in Boscotrecase, with a rooftop pool and breakfast at the estate winery. Modern rooms and great access to Vesuvius and the coast. Best for couples, wine lovers, and road-trippers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Boscotrecase, about 10 km to Vesuvius and 15 km to Herculaneum.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, family rooms, airport shuttle, accessible rooms, breakfast.
Why it stands out: winery vibes and a panoramic pool with quick access to Vesuvius. - 🔍Villa Mazza al Vesuvio — 8.9 (131 reviews)
Historic farmhouse in Torre del Greco with garden and terrace, offering homestyle breakfasts and sea or mountain views. A restful base near Ercolano and the Circumvesuviana line. Best for couples and slow stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Torre del Greco, about 7 km from Herculaneum ruins.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, free private parking, restaurant, bar, terrace, Italian breakfast.
Why it stands out: warm, personal agriturismo hospitality with Vesuvian views. - 🔍Vigna delle Rose di Casa Setaro — 8.2 (201 reviews)
Vineyard-edge stay in Trecase with a seasonal outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and tasting experiences. Simple, bright rooms and quiet evenings among the vines. Best for couples and wine-focused travelers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Trecase on Vesuvius’ lower slopes.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, airport shuttle, family rooms, breakfast.
Why it stands out: vineyard setting with pool and tastings near Pompeii. - 🔍Agriturismo Casa Scola — 7.7 (461 reviews)
Medieval-hamlet farmhouse above Gragnano with big terraces and a noted local-produce restaurant. Offers sweeping views toward the sea and Vesuvius, perfect for food lovers and hikers. Best for foodies, hikers, and drivers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Gragnano, about 8 km from Pompeii, good for Amalfi Coast day trips.
Key facilities: private parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, breakfast, airport shuttle, family rooms, room service.
Why it stands out: farmhouse dining and historic ambience within easy reach of the ruins.
Top Rated B&B in Pompeii
- 🔍B&B Pompei Olympus — 9.3 (795 reviews)
Central B&B on a quiet side street a short walk from the ruins; modern, well-kept rooms, some with balconies. Italian breakfast is served at a nearby café; friendly hosts and smooth self check-in. Best for couples and short breaks.
Neighborhood/landmark: Steps from the Sanctuary area and near the Amphitheatre entrance, close to Pompei Santuario station.
Key facilities: private parking (paid), free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, tea and coffee in rooms, good breakfast.
Why it stands out: consistently praised for spotless rooms and a superb location near both the ruins and trains. - 🔍Pompeii Ruins De Charme B&B — 9.2 (619 reviews)
Elegant rooms in a historic townhouse with a garden and sun terrace. Attentive hosts and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for couples and families wanting maximum convenience.
Neighborhood/landmark: Via Roma, directly across from the archaeological park entrance.
Key facilities: private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, airport shuttle, 24-hour front desk, hot tub, bar, terrace, breakfast.
Why it stands out: unbeatable proximity to Pompeii with a quiet garden retreat feel. - 🔍Dream House Pompei — 9.1 (887 reviews)
Quiet, central B&B with a garden and terrace; some rooms have balconies. Offers a buffet breakfast and on-site parking—great for drivers and early starts at the ruins.
Neighborhood/landmark: short walk to the archaeological area, about 13 minutes to the Forum.
Key facilities: private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, terrace, breakfast.
Why it stands out: excellent location score and a calm setting between town eateries and the ruins. - 🔍B&B Studio83 Pompei — 9.0 (820 reviews)
Well-run, value-oriented B&B near the center; comfortable rooms, some with balconies, and a highly rated breakfast with gluten-free options. Great for families and longer stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Viale G. Mazzini, easy walk to the site and local restaurants.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, terrace, excellent breakfast.
Why it stands out: strong value for money with free on-site parking and warm, personal service. - 🔍V&V Suite & Breakfast — 9.0 (570 reviews)
Central suites with friendly, hands-on hosting and a generous continental breakfast. Everything is walkable—ideal for city explorers and short breaks.
Neighborhood/landmark: in the heart of Pompei, near the Sanctuary and main streets.
Key facilities: free parking, fast Wi-Fi, family rooms, restaurant and bar, airport shuttle, tea and coffee in rooms, exceptional breakfast.
Why it stands out: top-rated location with the comfort of free parking and local charm.
Top Rated Apartments in Pompeii
- 🔍Palazzo Archeo — 9.3 (888 reviews)
Central aparthotel on Via Nolana with modern, spotless apartments and soundproofing. Walkable to the Sanctuary and Pompeii ruins, ideal for couples and families wanting space with hotel-style comfort.
Neighborhood/landmark: Pompei center, near Santuario della Beata Vergine del Rosario, walkable to the archaeological site.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, balcony, family rooms, lift, airport shuttle.
Why it stands out: apartment comfort with rare on-site parking in the historic core. - 🔍Residence O’Sole Mio Pompei — 8.9 (983 reviews)
Aparthotel 200 meters from the center with a seasonal outdoor pool and garden. Studios and apartments are ideal for couples or families who want a quiet base near restaurants and attractions.
Neighborhood/landmark: central Pompei, easy walk to eateries and the Amphitheatre entrance.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, balcony or terrace, family rooms, airport shuttle.
Why it stands out: a city-center apartment base that also offers a pool for post-ruins relaxation. - 🔍Todisco Apartament — 9.5 (173 reviews)
Two-bedroom apartment with a terrace and balcony, very central with highly praised hosts and breakfast. Perfect for families or small groups exploring Pompeii.
Neighborhood/landmark: 100 meters from Pompei center, close to shops and the archaeological park.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, restaurant or coffee shop, airport shuttle, family rooms.
Why it stands out: exceptional value and warm hospitality right by the center, with parking included. - 🔍Pompei Luxury Suite — 9.0 (166 reviews)
Stylish one-bedroom apartments in the best-rated area of Pompei, featuring balconies and kitchenettes for longer stays. Great for couples wanting comfort and convenience.
Neighborhood/landmark: central shopping streets, walkable to train and bus stations and the ruins.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, balcony, pet friendly, non-smoking rooms, breakfast available.
Why it stands out: unbeatable central location with the flexibility of self-catering comfort. - 🔍Villa Aurelia Pompei — 9.4 (242 reviews)
Peaceful apartment complex with a year-round pool, garden, and barbecue facilities. Perfect for families and drivers seeking a quieter base near Pompei.
Neighborhood/landmark: residential Pompei, about two kilometers from the center, convenient for visiting Vesuvius and Herculaneum by car.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, terrace or balcony, airport shuttle, family rooms.
Why it stands out: resort-style setting with pool and parking near the ruins.
Near, but not in the park
Torre Annunziata: Best for Oplontis; coastal feel and quick trains.
Castellammare di Stabia: For Stabiae and Mt Faito; marina walks.
Ercolano: Pair with Herculaneum; compact and well connected.
Use a bigger hub and day‑trip
Naples: Culture and nightlife; fastest transport; urban energy.
Sorrento: Sea views and calmer evenings; easy rail to Pompei Scavi.
Who should stay where
Couples: Small B&B near Porta Marina (balcony or garden if possible).
Families: Apartments by Piazza Anfiteatro (kitchen, two rooms, parking).
History fans: Steps from west gates for opening‑time starts.
Budget: Simple B&Bs in Pompei centre with rail access.
Drivers: Confirm on‑site parking and avoid ZTL around main squares.
Listing checklist (keep it simple)
AC for summer, heating for winter.
Free cancellation on flexible trips.
Bakery or breakfast within 5 minutes.
Soundproofing on busy streets; elevator if needed.
Quick stay plans
1 night, no car: Sleep by Pompei Scavi–Villa dei Misteri; enter at opening.
2 nights, with car: Base near Piazza Anfiteatro; day 1 Pompeii, day 2 Oplontis + Boscoreale.
Week on the coast: Stay in Sorrento; day‑trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri.
Map and orientation
Pompeii map reading is simple once you know the grid. Streets run north–south and east–west. Stone blocks carry ancient names and modern numbers. Pick an entrance and choose a loop. Avoid zig‑zagging all day. Distances look short but streets are uneven. Good shoes matter. Carry water. You will walk far.
What to see: the essential route
This classic loop fits a first visit. It covers icons without rushing.
Antiquarium Pompeii Start here from Piazza Esedra. This museum sets the scene. You see finds, models, and clear panels. It explains the eruption and daily life.
The Forum and Basilica Walk onto the main square. Temples and markets framed civic power. The Basilica shows law and trade. Views of Vesuvius add drama.
Temple of Apollo and surrounding streets This temple holds fine columns and statues. Nearby lanes show shop fronts and counters. Thermopolia were the fast food spots of Rome.
Stabian Baths These baths reveal sophisticated heating. Look for the hypocaust system under the floors. Notice the changing rooms and decoration.
House of the Faun A grand home with large atriums. The famous Alexander mosaic copy sits here. The original rests in Naples.
House of the Vettii Recently restored rooms glow with frescoes. Myths and elegant details fill the walls. This stop shows elite taste and wealth.
Amphitheatre and Palaestra Head east for the sports zone. The Amphitheatre is impressive and early in date. The Palaestra shows exercise courts and pools.
Garden of the Fugitives This garden holds plaster casts of victims. It is a quiet place for reflection. Many visitors pause here.
Villa of the Mysteries Exit the city walls and walk a little further. The villa stands in vineyards. Its red fresco room is famous. The location feels calm and rural.
End near Porta Marina for transport and food options.
Short on time: half‑day choices
You can see a strong slice in four hours. Choose one entrance and keep a tight loop.
From Piazza Esedra: Antiquarium → Forum → Stabian Baths → House of the Vettii → exit at Porta Marina.
From Piazza Anfiteatro: Amphitheatre → Palaestra → Garden of the Fugitives → Stabian Baths → Forum → exit at Porta Marina.
Two‑day plan for culture fans
Day 1: Follow the essential route at a relaxed pace. Add extra houses if open. Check the daily list of open buildings at the gate.
Day 2: Use ARTEBUS to visit Oplontis Villa Poppaea in Torre Annunziata. Then ride to Boscoreale Villa Regina and the small museum. Add Stabiae villas if time allows. Finish with a slow return to Pompeii town for dinner.
Family‑friendly route
Kids enjoy short loops and clear stories. Begin at the Amphitheatre. The space is open and exciting. Cross to the Palaestra for a snack break. Visit a thermopolium to show ancient counters. End with one house and the Garden of the Fugitives. Keep the day light and positive. Pack hats, water, and snacks. Shade breaks help everyone.
Accessibility: Pompeii for All
Pompeii for All is a step‑reduced route that starts at Piazza Anfiteatro. Surfaces remain uneven at times, and some ramps exceed an 8% incline. Wheel sizes matter on cobbles. Bathrooms and ramps are signed on site. Ask staff for the current map at the gate.
Heat, shade, and water
Summer gets hot. Plan shade stops near the Triangular Forum or colonnades. Many routes lack trees. Wear a hat and sunblock. Pompeii water fountains are spread across the site. Refill your bottle often. The water is potable.
Food and breaks
Food choices inside the park are limited. Eat a good breakfast in town and carry simple snacks. Most tickets allow a single entry only; plan to eat before or after your visit rather than exiting mid‑day. Confirm current rules at the gate if needed.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn bring milder weather and softer light. Winter is quiet and clear. Summer has long days but strong heat. Weekdays are calmer than weekends. Early morning beats late morning. Late afternoon is pretty for photos. Free Sunday Pompeii is busy but budget friendly.
Guided tours, skip‑the‑line, and strategy
Skip the line Pompeii options help only when crowds surge. Book official tickets ahead and arrive early. A guided tour gives structure and insight. Independent visitors can use the official audioguide and a simple printed map. Avoid hopping back and forth between far zones. Chunk your route into nearby sets.
Practical packing list
Sturdy shoes with grip.
Light daypack within the bag policy size.
Reusable bottle for fountains.
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
Small cash and card for snacks and lockers.
A charged phone for maps and photos.
Safety and site care
Walk with care on the basalt blocks. Steps can be tall and slick when wet. Keep to marked paths. Do not touch frescoes or mosaics. Staff protect fragile spaces. Drones are not allowed. Respect closures and one‑way signs.
Pair Pompeii with nearby sites
Pompeii sits in a rich cluster of Roman places. You can build great day combos.
Herculaneum day trip
Herculaneum lies closer to Naples on the same rail line. It is smaller but better preserved in parts. Wood survives in some houses. Streets are compact. Many travelers combine both sites over two days. The Campania Express stops at both.
Oplontis Villa Poppaea
This vast seaside villa shows luxury at scale. Frescoes are refined and colorful. It sits in Torre Annunziata near the coast. Use the Pompeii Artebus or a short train hop. Add it to your second day.
Boscoreale Villa Regina
A farm villa shows rural life and production. The small museum nearby adds context. It is a quick ride from Pompeii by shuttle.
Stabiae villas
Stabiae offers seafront villas and wide views. The setting contrasts with urban Pompeii. Check which villas are open before you go.
Naples Archaeological Museum (MANN)
Many mosaics and frescoes from Pompeii live here. The collection is world class. Combine MANN with a Naples walking day. It completes the story of the ruins.
Sample day from Naples
Catch an early Campania Express or Circumvesuviana. Enter via Porta Marina. Tour the Forum, Stabian Baths, and one grand house. Break for a snack near shade. Cross to the Amphitheatre and Palaestra. Pause at the Garden of the Fugitives. Walk to Villa of the Mysteries if energy allows. Return to Naples for evening pizza.
Sample day from Sorrento
Ride the Circumvesuviana toward Naples. Exit at Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri. Enter at Piazza Esedra. Start with the Antiquarium. Explore the Forum and nearby temples. Head east by stages. Finish at the Amphitheatre. Train back to Sorrento for sunset on the marina.
Tips for photographers
Morning light warms the tufa and marble. Late light glows on fresco reds. Noon is harsh, so seek interiors then. Watch your footing when framing shots. Tripods may be restricted. Ask staff before setting one up.
Responsible visits
Tourism supports research and conservation. Buy official tickets. Avoid unlicensed guides and devices. Follow staff instructions. Donate to site projects if offered. Your behavior helps protect fragile art.
FAQs
Is Pompeii worth visiting?
Yes. The site is huge, varied, and unique. You see a whole Roman city.
How long do I need?
A full day is ideal. Four hours covers highlights. Two days reward culture fans.
What are the opening hours?
Winter hours are shorter. Summer hours are longer. Last entry is earlier than closing. Check exact times near your date.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes in peak months. Tickets are nominative. Bring matching photo ID. Time slots can apply.
Which entrance should I use?
For Napoli–Sorrento trains, use Porta Marina or Piazza Esedra. For the east side, use Piazza Anfiteatro.
Are there water fountains?
Yes. Fountains are spread across the site. Carry a bottle and refill often.
Is there an official audioguide?
Yes. Only the official device is allowed. You can also hire a licensed guide.
What about the bag policy?
Small bags are allowed. Large bags must stay outside or in cloakrooms.
Is Pompeii accessible?
Pompeii for All offers a step‑reduced route. Surfaces remain uneven, so plan assistance.
Can I visit other sites on the same day?
Yes. Use Pompeii Artebus for Oplontis or Boscoreale. Herculaneum and MANN fit on separate days.
Plan your Pompeii visit
Plan your Pompeii day with smart timing. Book nominative tickets early. Choose one entrance and a simple loop. Add one nearby villa or museum on day two. Then enjoy streets, frescoes, and views that linger long after you leave.
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