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1-Day Unique Outdoor Adventure and Sightseeing in Pompeii

Pompeii, Italy

1 days

Ancient ruins and columns
Sunset at the ruins of Pompeii
Panoramic view of the ancient city
Ruins of Apollo Temple
Ancient Roman fresco

About Pompeii, Italy

Discover the ancient city of Pompeii, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins, including the Forum, the Thermal Baths, and the House of the Vettii, adorned with stunning frescoes. Walk the stone streets once roamed by Romans and see the amphitheater that hosted gladiatorial battles. Don't miss the poignant plaster casts of the volcano's victims, a stark reminder of nature's power. Nearby, hike the trails of Vesuvius for breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and natural beauty in Pompeii.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Ancient and Modern Pompeii

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Pompeii. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for its well-preserved ruins that provide a glimpse into the life of the Roman Empire. Explore the Forum, the Thermal Baths, and the House of the Vettii. Don't miss the plaster casts of the victims of the volcanic eruption.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at a local trattoria. Sample some of the region's specialties such as Neapolitan pizza, pasta, and fresh seafood. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine.

Afternoon

After lunch, continue your exploration of Pompeii. Visit the Amphitheatre, the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Garden of the Fugitives, where you can see the casts of 13 victims who tried to escape the eruption.

Dinner

For dinner, dine at a local osteria. These traditional Italian restaurants offer a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Try the risotto, a popular Italian dish, or opt for a hearty meat or fish dish.

Evening

End your day with a walk through the Modern City of Pompeii. The city is beautifully lit at night, offering a different perspective of the ancient ruins. Enjoy a gelato or a glass of limoncello as you stroll through the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Forum

1
Forum

The Forum was the center of political, economic, and religious life in ancient Pompeii. It is surrounded by many of the most significant buildings of the city.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Thermal Baths

2
Thermal Baths

The Thermal Baths in Pompeii are one of the best preserved structures in the city. They were a central part of social life in the ancient city, offering a place for relaxation and cleanliness.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
House of the Vettii

3
House of the Vettii

A well-preserved Roman townhouse that belonged to two wealthy freedmen and is known for its elaborate frescoes.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Garden of the Fugitives

4
Garden of the Fugitives

The Garden of the Fugitives in Pompeii is a poignant site where the plaster casts of 13 victims of the Vesuvius eruption are on display. This garden was a vineyard during Pompeii's heyday and the casts are of people who were likely trying to flee the eruption.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences
Modern City of Pompeii

5
Modern City of Pompeii

The modern city of Pompeii is a bustling Italian city that sits just outside the ancient ruins. It offers a mix of modern Italian life with a range of amenities including restaurants, shops, and hotels. It's a great place to base yourself for a visit to the ancient site.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Pompeii Archaeological Park

6
Pompeii Archaeological Park

The vast archaeological site where the ancient city of Pompeii is located, offering a wealth of preserved Roman architecture and artifacts.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pizza Napoletana

Pizza Napoletana

Originating from nearby Naples, this is a must-try dish in Pompeii. It's a thin crust pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Spaghetti alle Vongole

A popular pasta dish in Pompeii, made with clams, garlic, olive oil, and parsley.

Baba al Rum

Baba al Rum

A small yeast cake saturated in rum, and sometimes filled with whipped cream or pastry cream. It's a popular dessert in the Campania region.

Bufala Mozzarella

Bufala Mozzarella

A type of mozzarella cheese made from the milk of Italian Mediterranean buffalo. It's a local delicacy in the Campania region.

Neapolitan Coffee

Neapolitan Coffee

A traditional coffee preparation method in Naples and Pompeii. It's made with a flip coffee pot, which allows the coffee to be infused more slowly, resulting in a stronger flavor.

Taralli

Taralli

A type of Italian snack food, common all over the southern half of the Italian Peninsula. It's a loop-shaped bread, similar to a bagel, often flavored with black pepper, garlic, fennel seeds, or wine.

Caprese Salad

A simple Italian salad, made of sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and sweet basil, seasoned with salt, and olive oil. It represents the colors of the Italian flag.

Pastiera Napoletana

A type of Neapolitan tart made with cooked wheat, eggs, ricotta cheese, and flavored with orange flower water. It's a traditional Easter cake in Naples and Pompeii.

Limoncello

Limoncello

A sweet Italian lemon liqueur mainly produced in Southern Italy, especially in the region around the Gulf of Naples. It's traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner digestivo.

Struffoli

Struffoli

A Neapolitan dish made of deep fried balls of dough about the size of marbles. Crunchy on the outside and light inside, struffoli are mixed with honey and other sweet ingredients.

Risotto alla Pescatora

A seafood risotto dish, popular in coastal areas like Pompeii. It's typically made with a variety of seafood, including clams, mussels, prawns, and squid.

Gragnano Wine

A type of red and white wine produced in the area around the town of Gragnano, near Pompeii. It's often served chilled and is known for its effervescence.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Pompeii, Italy is typically during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant and the crowds are less dense compared to the peak summer season. The temperatures are comfortable for exploring the archaeological site, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Amalfi Coast nearby. However, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip as conditions can vary.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 25

Thu

Liberation Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 2

Sun

Republic Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Circumvesuviana train is a regional network of lines running out of Naples to the south of the city. One of these lines goes to Pompeii. The train station is just outside the entrance to the Pompeii site.

The SITA bus company runs services from Naples to Pompeii. The bus stop is a short walk from the entrance to the Pompeii site.

If you prefer to drive, Pompeii is easily accessible by car from Naples and other nearby cities. There is a large paid parking area near the entrance to the Pompeii site.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in the Naples area and can be used to get to Pompeii. However, availability can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

Many companies offer guided tours to Pompeii from Naples and other nearby cities. These tours often include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the site.

Once you are at the Pompeii site, the best way to get around is on foot. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but there are many well-marked paths and signs to guide you.

Although bicycles are not allowed inside the archaeological site, they can be a good option for getting around the modern town of Pompeii or exploring the surrounding area.

Renting a scooter can be a fun and convenient way to get around the modern town of Pompeii and the surrounding area. However, please note that scooters are not allowed inside the archaeological site.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type FPower socket type L

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Pompeii, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Pompeii is located in the Campania region of Italy, near Naples.

2

The city is most famous for the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, which buried the city in ash and pumice.

3

The best time to visit Pompeii is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild. The average temperature during these months ranges from 50-75°F (10-24°C).

4

Pompeii can get very crowded, especially during the summer months. It's best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

5

Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven cobblestone streets.

6

There are no shade structures in Pompeii, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

7

Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's important to respect the rules and regulations to preserve the site for future generations.

8

There are no restaurants or cafes within the archaeological site, so it's a good idea to bring snacks or a packed lunch.

9

Pompeii is a large site and can take a full day to explore. Plan your visit accordingly.

10

There are several entrances to the site, but the main entrance is at Porta Marina.

11

There are public restrooms available at the entrances and throughout the site.

12

Pompeii is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be difficult to navigate due to the uneven terrain.

13

There are lockers available at the entrance for storing large bags and backpacks.

14

Guided tours are available and can provide valuable insight into the history and culture of Pompeii.

15

The site is open every day except for January 1, May 1, and December 25.

16

The nearest airport to Pompeii is Naples International Airport, which is about 16 miles (26 kilometers) away.

17

There are several hotels and guesthouses in Pompeii and the surrounding area if you wish to stay overnight.

18

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

19

Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

20

Pompeii can be reached by train from Naples or Sorrento. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Ciao

chow

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Arrivederci

ah-ree-veh-der-chee

Leaving someone

Please

Per favore

pehr fah-voh-reh

Making a request

Thank you

Grazie

grah-tsee-eh

Showing appreciation

Yes

Sì

see

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

no

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Mi scusi

mee skoo-zee

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Non capisco

non kah-pee-skoh

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Parli inglese?

par-lee in-gleh-zeh

When you need someone to speak English

I need help

Ho bisogno di aiuto

oh bee-zoh-nyoh dee ah-yoo-toh

When you need assistance

Where is the bathroom?

Dove è il bagno?

doh-veh eh eel bahn-yoh

When you need to find the restroom

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

kwahn-toh koh-stah

When you want to know the price of something

I would like...

Vorrei...

vor-ray

When you want to order something

Water

Acqua

ah-kwah

When you want to order water

Food

Cibo

chee-boh

When you want to order food

Beer

Birra

beer-rah

When you want to order beer

Wine

Vino

vee-noh

When you want to order wine

Help!

Aiuto!

ah-yoo-toh

When you are in danger or need urgent help

Call the police!

Chiamate la polizia!

kee-ah-mah-teh lah poh-lee-tzee-ah

When you need to call the police

Good night

Buonanotte

bwoh-nah-noh-teh

When you are saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sunglasses

  • Sun hat

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Pompeii

  • Map of Pompeii

  • Umbrella

  • Backpack or daypack

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Pompeii, Italy, it's essential to consider the weather to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Pompeii experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C), so it's advisable to bring light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're planning to explore the archaeological site, which can get quite hot and has limited shade. The winter months, from December to February, are much cooler with temperatures ranging from 39°F to 59°F (4°C to 15°C). If you're visiting during this time, pack warm clothing, including a jacket or coat. Although it's less crowded during winter, keep in mind that rainfall is more common, so an umbrella or raincoat might come in handy. Spring and autumn offer more moderate temperatures, typically between 59°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). These seasons can be an ideal time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. However, occasional rain showers can occur, so it's wise to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella. Regardless of when you visit, remember that the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip. Also, consider that the Pompeii ruins are an outdoor site with little shade or shelter, so dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

13° / 3°

January is the coldest month in Pompeii, Italy. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

February

14° / 3°

February is still quite chilly, but the days start to get a bit longer. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.

March

18° / 6°

March sees the start of spring in Pompeii. The weather is mild and the flowers start to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April

21° / 9°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to visit Pompeii as the weather is comfortable for sightseeing.

May

25° / 13°

May is a warm month, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is not too crowded, making it a good time to explore Pompeii.

June

31° / 17°

June marks the start of summer in Pompeii. The weather is hot, but not unbearable, making it a popular time for tourists.

July

34° / 20°

July is the hottest month in Pompeii. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for large crowds.

August

34° / 20°

August is equally hot as July. The city is crowded with tourists, but the weather is perfect for visiting the beach.

September

29° / 17°

September is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. The crowds start to thin out, making it a great time to visit.

October

23° / 13°

October sees the start of autumn in Pompeii. The weather is mild and the leaves start to change color, making it a beautiful time to visit.

November

18° / 8°

November is a cool month, perfect for those who prefer milder temperatures. The city is less crowded, making it a good time to explore Pompeii.

December

14° / 4°

December is a chilly month in Pompeii. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and want to experience the city in a festive mood.

Did you know?

Did you know that Pompeii, Italy was once a thriving and sophisticated Roman city before it was buried under meters of ash and pumice after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.?

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