HOW TO GET FROM NAPLES TO POMPEII
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This post is about how to get from Naples to Pompeii
Pompeii is only 26 km (16miles) away from Naples which makes it the perfect destination for a day trip. If you’re in the Campania region of Italy Pompeii is a must visit. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy with 2.5 million visitors each year.
There are fantastic transport links between Naples and Pompeii with frequent bus and train connections. You could opt for a day trip or a slightly longer trip if you would like to include a visit to the nearby Mount Vesuvius, although you could do them both in a day if you were stretched for time and were prepared for a long, busy day of walking.
A trip to Mount Vesuvius will give you a greater understanding of what exactly happened in Pompeii.
Whether you want to stay for a few hours, a full day or longer here are the best ways to get from Naples to Pompeii.
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Watch my journey from Naples to Pompeii
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By Train
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Trains are a very convenient way to get from Naples to Pompeii. They are the option we went for and it was very simple. The trains are commuter trains and they make several stops along the way. They are old, crowded and often don’t have air conditioning but they are quick, direct and no transfers.
The first thing you need to do is get yourself to Napoli Centrale Station. This is the main train station in Naples. Take the escalators down to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi Metro Station. Trains depart to Pompeii every 30 minutes so whatever time you arrive you won’t be waiting long. You don’t need to book an advance ticket just join the queue at Garibaldi and request a ticket to Pompeii.
You will be taking the Circumvesuviana train, which takes 35 minutes and stops right near the entrance to the ruins. The station to get off at is Pompeii Scavi Villa Dei Misteri.
The trains run from 06:00 to 22:00 but bear in mind that Pompeii doesnt open until 09:00.
PRO TIP - Instead of going to the popular Garibaldi Station, head to Napoli Porta Nolana Station and take the Circumvesuviana. It’s just before Garibaldi on the line and not as well known so it will less crowded and there will be a greater chance of getting a seat.
When you arrive at Pompeii Scavi Station, turn right and one of the ruin entrances (there are several) is a few minutes walk on your left after walking past a few restaurants. If you have large bags with you, (they won’t be allowed into the ruins) you can leave them at Pompei Scavi station as they offer luggage storage.
COST : €1.40 single trip
TIME : 35 minutes
By Bus
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If you’d like a little more comfort than the train offers a bus could be the option for you. There are two options here - a long distance bus company such as Flixbus which offer a more comfortable trip with bigger seats, more leg room and air conditioning or a local SITAbus.
If you choose a Flixbus buses leave from just outside Napoli Centrale Station at 10:45 each day. You can book your tickets in advance here and prices range from €3 - €9 depending on the day.
The bus stops in the centre of modern Pompeii not by the ruins of Pompeii in Piazza Falcone e Borsellino and it’s around 15 minutes walk to the entrance.
COST : €3 - €9 single trip
TIME : 35 minutes
If you choose a SITA bus they leave from the Nuova Marina port. You’ll need to go to the port first to get a bus ticket from the SITA office there as you can’t get a bus ticket once you are aboard the bus, it needs to be purchased before and validated once onboard. These buses depart often throughout the day from 07:00 to 20:00. It’s the 5001 bus you want to take which goes Naples to Salerno passing through Pompeii.
The bus stops near Pompeii ruins entrance. Get off at Pompeii Scavi SITA bus stop and from here it’s only a short walk to the ruins.
COST : €2
TIME : 35 minutes
By Car
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It’s only 24 km to Pompeii from Naples and a very straight forward, easy drive along the A3 highway to the Pompeii Ovest exit which goes directly over to the ruins.
There is plently of parking in Pompeii itself once you arrive there so leaving the car should be okay.
Mount Vesuvius is about halfway between Naples and Pompeii and I would highly recommend stopping there to walk up it. Although it does require quite a detour that adds significant time to the trip. The road up to the car park, as you can imagine, is long and windey and quite slow driving that will add around 40 minutes to the drive.
There will be tolls to pay along the route, so make sure you either bring Euros to pay in cash or have your debit/credit card ready.
Pompeii & Vesuvius Good Reads
Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius FAQs
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What is Pompeii?
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near modern Naples, in the Campania region of Italy. It was buried under volcanic ash and pumice in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving it remarkably well.
What is Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located on the Gulf of Naples in Campania, Italy. It is famous for its eruption in 79 AD that destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
How do I get to Pompeii and Vesuvius?
You can reach Pompeii and Vesuvius by train, bus, or car from Naples. There are also organized tours available from Naples and other nearby cities.
Is it safe to visit Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano, but it is possible to visit safely. However, it's essential to follow the guidance of local authorities and park officials. At times, access to certain areas may be restricted due to volcanic activity.
Can I climb Mount Vesuvius?
Yes, you can climb Mount Vesuvius. There's a well-marked trail that leads to the crater rim. The hike is moderately challenging, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
How much time should I spend in Pompeii and Vesuvius?
It's recommended to allocate a full day to explore both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Pompeii alone can take several hours to explore thoroughly, and the hike up Vesuvius can also take a few hours round trip.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes, there are guided tours available for both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. These tours can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of these sites.
What should I bring with me when visiting Pompeii and Vesuvius?
Some essential items to bring include comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Pompeii and Vesuvius?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. The fees may vary depending on the season and any available discounts for students or seniors.
You’re travelling in Italy? These articles will help you
ITALY TRAVEL GUIDE The place to go for all your Italy travel information. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Italy wherever you are planning on visiting. If you’re visiting Italy as a solo traveller you’ll want to read the solo womens guide to travelling in Italy.
ROME : If you’re wondering on what the best things are to do in Rome you should check out how to spend your time in Rome.
CAMPANIA : Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii is an interesting day trip you can do from Rome to learn the history of the huge eruption and the consequences. Are you wondering if you should visit Naples? This 24 hours in Naples will help you decide. If you’re visiting Naples and Mount Vesuvius you’ll want to know how to get to Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii from Naples.
AMALFI COAST : Is Positano worth the hype? Amalfi is a great little town on the Amalfi Coast but is Amalfi Town worth visiting? Visiting the Blue Grotto is a great thing to do when in Capri so you can read about our experience for more information. Hidden treasures in Sorrento takes a look at one of the most beautiful areas in Italy. You can also read about my first impressions of Sorrento.
Read all of my articles about Italy in my Italy Travel Guide.
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Planning a trip to Italy? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in the UK.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to Italy using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Italyand apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Rome Airport, Milan Airport or a water taxi from Venice Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in Italy on Booking.com.
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your transport once you’re in Italy but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy private transfers online through Bookaway .
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in Italy on Viator or Get Your Guide.
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