Independent Travel Guide: This is an unofficial guide to Pompeii, not the official Archaeological Park website. For official tickets and current information, visit pompeiisites.org. We may earn commissions from affiliate partners.
The Strategic Blueprint: Planning Your Expedition
Success at Pompeii starts before you arrive. Use these choices to balance time, comfort, and crowds.
How to Get to Pompeii
- Circumvesuviana (Budget): €3.30; ~30–40 min from Naples/Sorrento; frequent but crowded and hot; be vigilant for pickpockets.
- Campania Express (Comfort): ~€15; ~30 min; guaranteed seating, A/C, luggage space; few departures—book ahead.
- Bus: €5–€7; ~20–40 min; direct services (e.g., FlixBus); timing varies with traffic.
- Car / Private Transfer: Highest comfort and flexibility; paid parking near entrances; Naples-area traffic can be stressful.
Tickets, Tours, and New Rules
- Buy official tickets online via pompeiisites.org (VivaTicket). Ignore touts claiming ‘skip-the-line’.
- All tickets are nominative—carry matching ID for entry checks.
- In high season, daily visitor caps split morning/afternoon slots; popular times sell out.
- Match your style to the right format: self-guided (map/app), audio guide, small-group tour, or private guide.
Early morning or late afternoon
Weekdays are less crowded
April-May or September-October
Seasonal Guide
Spring (March-May)
15-20°C, occasional rain
Moderate
Ideal time to visit with mild weather and blooming gardens
Summer (June-August)
25-35°C, sunny
Very busy
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat
Autumn (September-November)
15-25°C, some rain
Moderate to low
Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists
Winter (December-February)
8-15°C, occasional rain
Low
Quiet period with lowest tourist numbers
Visiting Pompeii with Kids: Complete Family Guide
Essential Family Visit Tips
Realistic visit times: Toddlers 1.5-2 hours, Children 2.5-3 hours, Teens 4+ hours
Stroller Accessibility & Baby Equipment
Pompeii is NOT stroller-friendly. Ancient Roman streets feature large stone blocks, uneven surfaces, and frequent steps.