Pompeii, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Pompeii, the ancient city preserved by volcanic ash, where history and culture come alive amidst its remarkable ruins and breathtaking landscapes.

Pompeii, nestled at the foot of Mount Vesuvius in Italy, is a city like no other. It offers a rare glimpse into ancient Roman life, frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of 79 AD. Walking through its well-preserved streets, you will encounter a myriad of historical wonders that tell stories of a civilization long gone. As you explore the ruins of Pompeii, you will be captivated by its astonishingly detailed frescoes, mosaics, and the architecture of its grand villas, such as the House of the Faun. The Forum, the heart of Pompeii's social and political life, stands as a testament to the city's former glory. The Amphitheatre and the Theatre remind visitors of the city's vibrant entertainment culture. A visit to the Villa of the Mysteries offers a deeper insight into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Pompeii. Surrounding the ruins are lush vineyards and beautiful landscapes that add to the charm of this historic city. The haunting plaster casts of Pompeii's inhabitants provide a poignant reminder of the city's tragic end and serve as a powerful connection to the past.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pompeii.

Wear comfortable shoes; the ancient streets are uneven and require a lot of walking.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the archaeological site.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights and historical context.
Don't miss the Villa of the Mysteries, located slightly outside the main ruins.

Neighbourhoods in Pompeii

Pompeii Archaeological Park

Forum of Pompeii

Amphitheatre of Pompeii

Villa of the Mysteries

House of the Vettii

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Pompeii

Explore Pompeii: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Amalfi Coast

Experience the stunning views, rich culture, and vibrant life of the Amalfi Coast, a treasure of Italy known for its breathtaking scenery and charming villages.

4.7

Archaeological Park of Pompeii

Explore the preserved ruins of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Roman life and culture.

4.7

Royal Palace of Caserta

Explore the Royal Palace of Caserta, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing exquisite baroque architecture and stunning gardens, perfect for history lovers.

4.6

Sansevero Chapel Museum

Explore the stunning Baroque artistry and historical wonders of Sansevero Chapel Museum in Naples, an unmissable cultural treasure.

4.7

Best landmarks in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Archaeological Park of Pompeii

Explore the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii, an ancient Roman city frozen in time, revealing the mysteries of a civilization lost to volcanic fury.

4.7

Pompeii Archaeological Park

Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that unveils the splendor of Roman civilization and its timeless history.

4.7

Amphitheatre of Pompeii

Explore the Amphitheatre of Pompeii, the oldest Roman amphitheatre, where history and architecture intertwine in a breathtaking ancient setting.

4.7

Scavi di Pompei

Discover the ancient city of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where history comes alive amidst the ruins of a civilization lost to time.

4.7

Best restaurants in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Ristorante Pizzeria IMatti

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria IMatti in Pompei—where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.3

Le Delizie Pompei via Roma 83

Savor authentic Italian flavors at Le Delizie Pompei—your go-to restaurant for pizza and seafood delights in Pompeii.

4.4

Alleria Pizzeria Newpolitana

Discover authentic Neapolitan pizza at Alleria Pizzeria Newpolitana in Pompeii—where tradition meets taste in every delicious slice.

4.3

La Bettola Del Gusto

Savor exquisite seafood and steak at La Bettola Del Gusto in Pompeii – where culinary excellence meets historical charm.

4.6

Best bars in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Wolf Irish Pub

Wolf Irish Pub in Pompei: A cozy Irish haven serving up local brews and hearty comfort food, perfect for unwinding after exploring ancient ruins.

4.5

Open Bar Pompei

Discover Open Bar Pompei, a lively bar and cafeteria offering delicious snacks and refreshing drinks in the heart of historic Pompeii.

3.9

'Mericano (Pub - Steak House - Birreria) Pompei

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Pompei at Mericano, where delicious steaks and craft beers meet a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Pub27

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Pompei at Pub27, a cozy pub offering an array of local drinks and a lively atmosphere ideal for travelers.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Open Bar Pompei

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delectable offerings at Open Bar Pompei, the perfect retreat for tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

3.9

'Mericano (Pub - Steak House - Birreria) Pompei

Savor delectable steaks and local brews at Mericano, the ultimate pub and steakhouse experience in Pompei, Italy.

4.4

House of the Vettii

Explore the House of the Vettii, a stunning archaeological site in Pompeii, showcasing exquisite frescoes and Roman architectural brilliance.

4.7

Mamba Pompei

Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Mamba Pompei, where culinary delights meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Pompeii.

4.4

Best shops in Pompeii

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Designer Outlet La Reggia

Explore Designer Outlet La Reggia: A shopping paradise in Marcianise, offering designer brands, delightful dining, and family-friendly fun.

4.4

Centro Commerciale La Cartiera

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Centro Commerciale La Cartiera, where fashion, food, and fun come together in Pompei.

4.2

Galleria Umberto I

Explore Galleria Umberto I, a stunning historical landmark and shopping destination in Naples, showcasing beautiful architecture and vibrant local culture.

4.6

Mercato Caramanico

Explore the vibrant Mercato Caramanico in Naples for fresh produce, local delicacies, and an authentic taste of Italian culture.

4.2

Explore Pompeii on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pompeii, mapped for you.

Pompeii Essentials

Pompeii is located in the Campania region of Italy, near the Bay of Naples. The nearest major airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), approximately 30 kilometers from Pompeii. From Naples, you can take a direct train from Napoli Centrale station to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from Naples to Pompeii.
Pompeii can be easily navigated by foot, especially within the archaeological site. For travelling around the town or nearby areas, local buses and taxis are available. The Circumvesuviana train line connects Pompeii to Naples, Sorrento, and other nearby destinations, making it a convenient option for day trips. If you plan to explore the surrounding region, renting a car can provide added flexibility.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available throughout Pompeii. Be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Pompeii is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular tourist spot, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your belongings secure. Stay vigilant, particularly around the train station and popular tourist areas. Walking alone at night in poorly lit areas is not recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services including police, fire, and medical help. Pompeii has local police stations and medical facilities to assist tourists. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase necessary medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Avoid wearing high heels or flip-flops within the archaeological site. Religion: Do show respect when visiting religious sites; dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as pizza, pasta, and seafood. Don't rush your meals; dining is a leisurely affair in Italy.
To experience Pompeii like a local, visit the town's markets where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their town. Don't miss the opportunity to explore less crowded areas of the archaeological site, such as the Villa of the Mysteries. For a unique experience, consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and culture of Pompeii.
Pompeii experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot and crowded, while winter is less busy but can be rainy.
The official language of Pompeii is Italian. While many people in the tourism industry speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. Common phrases include 'Grazie' (Thank you), 'Per favore' (Please), and 'Scusa' (Excuse me).

When is the best time to visit Pompeii?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pompeii

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pompeii. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ar-ri-ve-der-chi]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [per fa-vo-re/pre-go]
- Thank youGrazie
  [gra-tzi-e]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mi skoo-zee/skoo-za]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [ko-me sty]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [be-ne/e too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-li een-gle-se]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non ca-pi-sko]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vo-rrei ve-de-re eel me-noo, per fa-vo-re]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non man-jo car-ne]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sa-lu-te]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vo-rrei pa-ga-re, per fa-vo-re]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ai-u-to]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vai via]
- Call the Police!Chiama la Polizia!
  [kya-ma la po-lee-tzya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un medico!
  [kya-ma oon me-di-ko]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mi so-no per-so]
- I'm illSto male
  [sto ma-le]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vo-rrei com-pra-re]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [sto so-lo guar-dan-do]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwon-to cos-ta]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [e tro-po ca-ro]
- Can you lower the price?Può abbassare il prezzo?
  [puo ab-ba-sa-re eel pre-tso]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [ke o-re so-no]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [e loo-na]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [so-no le dyee-che e met-za]
- MorningMattina
  [mat-tee-na]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [po-me-ree-djo]
- EveningSera
  [se-ra]
- YesterdayIeri
  [ye-ri]
- TodayOggi
  [oj-ji]
- TomorrowDomani
  [do-ma-ni]
- 1Uno
  [oo-no]
- 2Due
  [dwe]
- 3Tre
  [tre]
- 4Quattro
  [kwa-ttro]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kwe]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [set-te]
- 8Otto
  [ot-to]
- 9Nove
  [no-ve]
- 10Dieci
  [dyee-che]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [do-ve]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwal e lin-di-rit-tso]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwow mo-sta-rmi/sul-la map-pa]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwan-do pas-sa eel pro-so-mo/au-to-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-to/per]

History of Pompeii

Pompeii was founded in the 7th or 6th century BC by the Oscans, an Italic people. It later came under Greek and Etruscan influence before becoming a Roman colony in 80 BC, known as Colonia Cornelia Veneria Pompeianorum.
During the Roman era, Pompeii flourished as a bustling city with a population of around 11,000 to 15,000 people. The city was known for its well-developed infrastructure, including an amphitheater, aqueducts, baths, and a sophisticated sewer system. Pompeii was also a significant center for agriculture, trade, and commerce.
On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted catastrophically, burying Pompeii under a thick layer of volcanic ash and pumice. The eruption lasted for two days, and the city was quickly enveloped, preserving buildings, artifacts, and even the bodies of its inhabitants in remarkable detail.
Pompeii remained buried until its rediscovery in 1748 by Spanish engineer Rocque Joaquin de Alcubierre. Excavations began, revealing a well-preserved snapshot of Roman life. The site has since become one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, offering invaluable insights into ancient Roman culture and daily life.
The Forum was the heart of public life in Pompeii, serving as a central marketplace and gathering spot for political, economic, and religious activities. Surrounded by important buildings such as the Basilica and the Temple of Jupiter, the Forum was a bustling hub of activity.
One of the largest and most luxurious residences in Pompeii, the House of the Faun is renowned for its intricate mosaics, including the famous 'Alexander Mosaic' depicting the Battle of Issus. This grand house exemplifies the wealth and sophistication of Pompeii's elite citizens.
Built around 70 BC, the amphitheater of Pompeii is one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters. It could hold up to 20,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial games and other public spectacles. Its well-preserved state provides a vivid picture of Roman entertainment.
Pompeii was home to several public bath complexes, including the Stabian Baths, the Forum Baths, and the Central Baths. These baths were not only places for bathing but also social centers where people gathered to relax and converse. The baths featured advanced heating systems and beautifully decorated rooms.
Located on the outskirts of Pompeii, the Villa of the Mysteries is famous for its well-preserved frescoes depicting the initiation rites of the Dionysian Mysteries. These vibrant and enigmatic paintings offer a glimpse into the religious practices and artistic achievements of the time.
The streets of Pompeii were meticulously planned and paved with large stone blocks. Many streets had stepping stones for pedestrians to cross when the roads were flooded. The city's layout, including its grid pattern and inscriptions on walls, helps us understand the organization and daily life of its inhabitants.