Pompeii

Exploring the Ancient City of Pompeii: A Traveler’s Guide

Table of Contents

Where to Visit

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city frozen in time by the devastating volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, is a must-visit destination for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the past. Here are some top attractions to add to your itinerary:

Pompeii Archaeological Park

  • Address: Via Plinio, 13, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Hours of Operation: 8:30 am - 7 pm (April to October), 8:30 am - 5 pm (November to March)
  • Ticket Price: €15 per person (free admission for children under 18)

Explore the excavated ruins of Pompeii, including the Forum, Basilica, and Amphitheater. Don’t miss the casts of the victims trapped by the volcanic ash.

Herculaneum

  • Address: Via IV Novembre, 4, 80056 Ercolano NA
  • Hours of Operation: 8:30 am - 7 pm (April to October), 8:30 am - 5 pm (November to March)
  • Ticket Price: €15 per person (free admission for children under 18)

Visit the lesser-known but equally fascinating town of Herculaneum, which was destroyed by the same eruption.

Mount Vesuvius National Park

  • Address: Via Plinio, 13, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Hours of Operation: 8:30 am - 7 pm (April to October), 8:30 am - 5 pm (November to March)
  • Ticket Price: €15 per person (free admission for children under 18)

Take a guided hike up Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed Pompeii.

Where to Eat

Pompeii and its surroundings offer a range of dining options, from traditional Italian cuisine to modern restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties. Here are some top recommendations:

Trattoria da Nennella

  • Address: Via Plinio, 13, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Hours of Operation: Lunch: 12 pm - 3 pm (Monday to Saturday), Dinner: 7 pm - 11 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
  • Price Range: Moderate (€15-€30 per person)

Enjoy traditional Neapolitan cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting.

La Taverna del Leone

  • Address: Via dei Mille, 10, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Hours of Operation: Lunch: 12 pm - 3 pm (Monday to Saturday), Dinner: 7 pm - 11 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
  • Price Range: Moderate (€15-€30 per person)

Try local specialties like pizza margherita and fresh seafood at this family-run trattoria.

Pizzeria da Lorenzo

  • Address: Via dei Mille, 8, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Hours of Operation: Lunch: 12 pm - 3 pm (Monday to Saturday), Dinner: 7 pm - 11 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
  • Price Range: Budget-friendly (€10-€20 per person)

Get authentic Neapolitan pizza at this popular pizzeria.

Where to Stay

From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, Pompeii and its surroundings offer a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Here are some top recommendations:

Hotel dei Cavalieri

  • Address: Via Plinio, 13, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Price Range: Luxury (€150-€250 per night)
  • Amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar

Enjoy upscale amenities and comfortable rooms in this modern hotel.

Hotel Villa Franca

  • Address: Via dei Mille, 10, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Price Range: Mid-range (€80-€150 per night)
  • Amenities: Garden, restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi

Relax in a tranquil garden setting or enjoy local cuisine at this family-run hotel.

B&B Alloggio da Maria

  • Address: Via dei Mille, 8, 80045 Pompei NA
  • Price Range: Budget-friendly (€40-€80 per night)
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, private bathroom

Save money by staying in a cozy B&B with all the essentials.

Activities and Tips

Guided Tours

Book a guided tour to get the most out of your Pompeii experience. Many tours include Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius National Park.

Respect the Site

Remember to respect the ancient ruins and their history by not touching or damaging any artifacts.

Safety First

Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay safe in the sun while exploring Pompeii and its surroundings.

Get Off the Beaten Path

Visit Herculaneum for a more relaxed experience or explore the nearby town of Pompei for authentic local life.

Other Things of Interest

Beyond Pompeii, there are many other exciting attractions to explore in the surrounding area:

Sorrento Coast

  • Address: Via San Gregorio Armeno, 12, 80065 Sorrento NA
  • Hours of Operation: Open year-round (hours vary by business)
  • Ticket Price: Free admission (some attractions may require a fee)

Enjoy stunning coastal views, visit ancient ruins, and experience local culture in this charming town.

Isola del Giglio

  • Address: Via Roma, 1, 58053 Roselle GR
  • Hours of Operation: Open year-round (hours vary by business)
  • Ticket Price: Free admission (some attractions may require a fee)

Visit this picturesque island for secluded beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Caserta Royal Palace

  • Address: Piazza Carlo III, 81100 Caserta CE
  • Hours of Operation: Open year-round (hours vary by season)
  • Ticket Price: €15 per person (free admission for children under 18)

Explore the opulent royal palace and its stunning gardens.

Enjoy your trip to Pompeii!