How to visit Pompeii and Vesuvius from Naples? All you need to knowdbvirago - Adobe Stock
Located just 25 kilometers from Naples, Pompeii is a city that invites you to step back in time and discover what life was like 2,000 years ago, before Vesuvius destroyed everything. Pompeii was one of the most important cities in Campania and one of the most important political centers of ancient Rome in southern Italy. However, in 79 AD, the eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried the site under a layer of ash and pumice. Today, Pompeii is one of the world's most popular archaeological sites and can be visited as part of a half- or full-day excursion. The city offers a journey back in time, to the discovery of forgotten ruins rediscovered in the 18th century. During your visit, you'll discover exceptionally well-preserved public buildings, houses, streets, mosaics and even frescoes.

1. Half-day excursion to Pompeii from Naples

Ruins of Pompeiicurioso.Photography - Adobe Stock
The most classic option for discovering Pompeii is a half-day excursion from Naples, during which you can take a bus tour of the main sites of the lost city, which was known only through literature until it was rediscovered in 1748. You'll visit the Roman Forum, the theater, a two-thousand-year-old "ancient fast-food restaurant" and even a brothel. These tours of Pompeii and Vesuviusare always accompanied by an experienced local guide. You'll discover captivating stories about the city, learn about the tragic fate of some important families, visit the home of the Vetti family, the most famous Pompeian dynasty, see the thermal baths and finally visit the area around Mount Vesuvius, which, although considered active, remains under control. These tours last around 4 hours, ideal if you're planning a short stay in Naples, one of Italy's must-see destinations. You can then combine your city tour with an excursion to one of the world's most famous archaeological sites. Some tour operators also offer a simple option, with a round-trip transfer, but without the assistance of a guide. However, we recommend that you opt for the guided tour, the best way to be told the stories that made Pompeii a mythical city in ancient times. Important details: - Price: these tours have an initial cost of around 109 euros, including round-trip transfers from Naples and accompaniment by an expert local guide. Cheaper options are available without a guide. - Duration: between 4 and 5 hours. - Advantages of these tours: you can see Pompeii and Vesuvius as part of an express tour. - Disadvantages: although you'll have some free time, it may not be enough to see all the sites not included in the guided tour.

2. Visit Pompeii and Capri from Naples

Capri beachjanoka82 - Adobe Stock
If you want to see the best of both worlds and are interested in contrasts, you can opt for these excursions that include a visit to the archaeological site of Pompeii and the beaches of Capri, one of the paradise islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea. These excursions depart from Naples early in the morning. A boat takes you to the archipelago off the Sorrento coast. Here you can visit the Piazzeta, the origin of the island's narrow streets lined with boutiques and famous Italian fashion brands. You can also visit the famous Via Krupp, Augustus' gardens and the vacation homes of tycoons. You can also take photos at the Faraglioni, where three rocks jut out into the water close to the shore. One of Capri's postcard images. During the excursion, you'll have free time for lunch on the island or to visit the beaches if you plan to visit Naples and its must-sees in summer. Back at the port, you'll then visit Pompeii's archaeological excavations, Vesuvius and the thermal baths that bear witness to one of the best-preserved cities of ancient Rome, covered by volcanic ash. Return to Naples by bus before sunset. These excursions usually include a round-trip transfer with hotel pick-up. Important details: - Price: these excursions have an initial cost of around 148 euros, including round-trip transfers from Naples with hotel pick-up and the assistance of an expert local guide. - Duration: between 8 and 9 hours. - Advantages of these excursions: you'll see 2 of the most popular sites around Naples. - Disadvantages: you may not have enough free time on Capri to enjoy the beaches, and the tour does not include the Blue Grotto, one of the island's most important sites.

3. Day trip to Pompeii and Sorrento, including lunch

Vesuviusjul14ka - Adobe Stock
In addition to discovering the ancient history of the lost city of Pompeii, these excursions include a visit to Sorrento, one of the most beautiful coastal sites in the Bay of Naples. The first stop is the archaeological site of Pompeii, where you can visit the baths, houses, streets and church that shaped this important Roman city. The tour will also include a visit to Vesuvius and a guided tour to discover the reasons behind the eruption of 79 AD, which buried the city in ash and transformed the archaeological site into a perfect model of what life was like 2,000 years ago. Towards the end of the Pompeii tour, you'll enjoy a gourmet lunch at a nearby restaurant, usually included in the price. Then it's off by bus to Sorrento, to visit the medieval castle that gives the town its name, and to discover the coastal path that leads to the Neapolitan bay and enchants with its panoramic views. in Sorrento, you can visit the public gardens of Villa Comunale, one of the town's main attractions. After free time to stroll around the city, take a break or do some shopping, return to Naples! Important details: - Price: these excursions have an initial cost of around 85 euros, including round-trip transfers from Naples and the assistance of an expert local guide. - Duration: approx. 8 hours. - Advantages of these excursions: the tour begins in Pompeii, so this is the site to which we devote the most time. - Disadvantages: you'll only see Vesuvius from the perimeter, and the guided tour does not include a visit to the eruption zone.

Day trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Vesuvius

Ruins of Pompeii© ArTo - Adobe Stock

These tours allow you to discover Roman ruins and climb to the top of Italy's most famous mountain. The first stop is Pompeii, where you can learn about the city's history and main archaeological sites on a guided tour. You'll see the House of the Faun, the House of the Tragic Poet, the thermal baths and the famous lupanar, where the original frescoes from Roman times are preserved. These tours also include a visit to Herculaneumanother archaeological site of ancient Rome, where you'll see the Corinthian atrium house, considered one of the oldest in southern Italy. You'll also visit the thermal baths located in the forum and the public square, which preserves some of the original columns. After lunch, you'll visit Vesuvius, the volcano that devastated Pompeii, Stabiae and Herculaneum in the eruption of 79 AD. You can decide to climb to the top, from where you'll have a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples, or rest until you return. Important details: - Price: these excursions have an initial cost of around 150 euros, including round-trip transfers from Naples with hotel pick-up and the assistance of an expert local guide. - Duration: approx. 10h. - Advantages of these excursions: in addition to Pompeii, you can visit other archaeological sites and climb Mount Vesuvius if you wish. - Disadvantages: these tours can be expensive and are not recommended for people with reduced mobility.

How do I book an excursion to Pompeii from Naples?

The best way to book an excursion to Pompeii from Naples is to book online in advance. This will allow you to lock in the price, reserve your seat and organize an itinerary based on the date and time you choose. This is very important if you plan to visit Naples in high season, when demand for excursions is much higher due to the influx of tourists. You can also book excursions at the last minute, when you're in town. But then you'll be dependent on availability, which can be limited, and last-minute prices, which tend to move around and be higher than advance bookings. Many tour operators offer discounts for online bookings, which is another reason to pre-book the excursion of your choice.

Duration of excursions to Pompeii from Naples

The answer depends on which option you choose, but excursions generally last half a day or a full day. The shortest tours last around 4 hours, while the longest last between 8 and 10 hours. Most offer round-trip transfers, with pick-up at your hotel or a central location in Naples. The duration of these tours also depends on the sites visited, as they don't just include a visit to Pompeii and Vesuvius, but are generally part of an itinerary that takes you to the most famous sites in the world of an itinerary that also takes you to Sorrento, Capriherculaneum and other nearby towns.

What will I see on this type of excursion?

in Pompeii, you'll see an ancient Roman city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. You'll be able to explore a large number of well-preserved buildings and structures such as houses, baths, theaters, stores and temples. You'll also see human remains, plaster casts showing how people died and original frescoes. As a visitor, you can wander the streets of the city, admiring the architecture of the time and discovering what life was like in ancient Rome. On Mount Vesuvius, you can reach the summit of Italy's most famous mountain and see up close the volcano that caused Pompeii's tragic eruption. Depending on the tour you choose, you can also visit Sorrento, one of the most famous towns on the Neapolitan bay; Capri, an island paradise in the Tyrrhenian Sea; and Herculaneum, another of southernItaly's archaeological sites.

Tips for an excursion to Pompeii from Naples

Excursion to PompeiiaS Photo Family - Adobe Stock
Pompeii is one of southern Italy's most visited attractions. It is considered one of the world's most famous archaeological sites. Our advice is as follows: - The earlier the better: Pompeii is a very popular site and can be crowded with tourists. So it's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and have enough time to see everything you want. - Wear comfortable shoes: Pompeii is vast and you'll be doing a lot of walking. So make sure you wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to visit in summer. - Sun protection: Pompeii is in the open air, and it can get very hot in summer. So be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water to keep you hydrated. - Choose a guided tour: Pompeii is a place steeped in history and culture, and a guide can provide valuable information and enrich your experience. You can also visit the site on your own, but you'll miss out on important details. - Bring a camera: Pompeii is a beautiful and photogenic place, so don't forget to bring a camera to capture your memories. - Bring a map to guide you: Pompeii is vast and it can be easy to get lost, so bring a map or download an app to help you navigate the site, especially if you ultimately decide to do the tour on your own without the help of an expert local guide.

Why do you recommend a trip to Pompeii from Naples?

Naples is one of Italy's most picturesque cities, but one of its main assets is its proximity to other interesting tourist sites in Italy, including Pompeii. If you don't know when or if you'll be back, don't miss the opportunity to visit this historic archaeological site, which isone of the most impressive in the world and one of the most curious. We also recommend a trip to Pompeii from Naples if you're a history buff or interested in what life was like 2,000 years ago. The ruins of Pompeii are a real trip back in time!

What are the advantages of a guided tour over a self-guided visit to Pompeii from Naples?

You can visit Pompeii on your own and no doubt enjoy it, but without the assistance of a guide, you'll miss out on many must-see features of the forgotten city. Many of them are not well signposted or have no boundaries at all. The best way to enjoy the city, if you opt for a self-guided tour, is to use a map or make notes in advance, so that you know where the various sites are when you visit. However, if you have the opportunity, we strongly recommend that you visit Pompeii with the help of a guide.