As a child, I always wanted to become an archaeologist. I love history and still do, and the idea of discovering temples and tombs hidden in jungles excites me. Even as a 13-year-old, I would read Greek and Roman histories and discuss them with my history teacher. In other words, I’ve always been a geek.
I am a history buff, so visiting Pompeii—the city that was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE—has always been on my bucket list.
When the volcano erupted, Pompeii was buried in 4-6 metres (13-20 feet) of falling ash. This is a city frozen in time.
Pompeii was a Roman city when it fell, but the earliest settlements date back to the 8th Century BCE. Due to its rich agricultural land and location along important trade routes, Pompeii grew to be a wealthy city over time. Over 20,000 people lived there.
It was also a cultural centre for the region, with an amphitheatre and Forum, public baths, temples, and a vast aqueduct network that provided clean water. During Vesuvius’s eruption, many of these buildings, including large private villas located in the surrounding countryside, were buried.
The eruption lasted for two days. The first phase, which consisted of falling pumice and ash, lasted 18 hours. The 1,150 bodies found are significant but only represent a small fraction of the total population. The majority of residents likely escaped during the initial eruption phase, but the final death toll remains unknown.
The ash that fell from the volcano was responsible for the greatest tragedy of the time. However, it also preserved the buildings, frescoes, streets, pots, and bodies. While there was some looting following the eruption, Pompeii eventually lost its location with time.
The area was not rediscovered until Herculaneum, a nearby town (buried by the same Vesuvius explosion), was discovered. Pompeii was first excavated in 1748. Archaeological work continues to this day. Who knows what will be found in the future? A significant part of the site remains unexplored.
Over the years, I have travelled around the world and seen many magnificent ruins. This is the best. Even though the site has suffered from a lack of maintenance, it was still a great place to spend a day. I can only hope that the Italian government takes action to prevent this site from further deteriorating.
Pompeii is located near Naples, Italy. It takes one full day to explore. You can spend an extra half-day here if you want to explore every building. It’s huge, covering over 160 acres. You could easily spend more time.
There was much I missed on my day. Here’s everything you need for a successful visit to Pompeii.
Pompeii’s Top 12 Attractions
1. The Brothel
The ancient brothel is a tiny home with scenes of acts that customers could pay for. The frescoes are a form of ancient porn. It is not clear whether they were intended to be functional or merely decorative.
This is not surprising. It was likely just as popular even before the eruption. This is the largest pleasure house found in Pompeii so far, and historians believe it to be the city’s primary brothel. The Romans enjoyed their… rest.
2. The Forum Baths
These baths, located near the Forum (the main public area), are in very good condition. The walls are still intact, and the heating system can be seen. It’s easy to imagine the baths in their original state.
The forum baths in Pompeii are among the smallest bath ruins, but they are also the most elegant. Separate areas and entrances were provided for men, women, and children. There were not only hot baths but also cold and tepid ones.
3. The Villa of the Mysteries
The frescoes are located outside the main area and have been preserved in full colour. They are some of the finest examples of 1st-century Roman painting. The frescoes appear to show a woman undergoing the initiations of a Greco-Roman mystery cult.
The villa, located on the edge of Pompeii, was not excavated until 1909. It’s also a little bit of a hike so that you can have the place to yourself.
4. The Forum
The Forum is the most crowded area in Pompeii, and it’s located near the main entrance. The Forum was the centre of Pompeii’s life, its cultural and civic nerve. It was the heart and main square of the city, where all important religious or commercial events took place. Wandering around this area gives you a real sense of Pompeii’s life.
5. The Stabian Baths
This is also the oldest bath in Pompeii. It is slightly larger and has fewer people. Preserved bodies can be seen, which can be unsettling.
There was also a gym, a workout area, and a swimming pool that was almost Olympic size.
6. House of the Small Fountain
Beautiful house with beautiful frescoes and a mosaic fountain. The central atrium is accessible from almost all the rooms. This house belonged to a wealthy person.
The sloped roof collected rainwater and was also doubled as an outdoor fountain. This was a brilliant example of innovation in its time.
7. House of the Faun
The statue in the courtyard in front of the house gives it its name. The house was built in the 2nd Century BCE and has a large courtyard at the back. You can find a mosaic depicting a battle scene.
This is one of the best-preserved examples of a rich and luxurious private home from that time. It’s even better than many Rome sites!
8. Garden of the Fugitives
This old vineyard, located in the rear of Pompeii, has casts of those who did not survive the city. The garden contains 13 frozen bodies, depicting Pompeii’s final hours in a horrifying and agonizing scene. It is both fascinating and unsettling.
9. House of Venus in a Shell
This house, which is also located away from the crowds, has a colourful fresco of the goddess Venus. It also has a statue of Mars and some gardens.
The house had been under renovation at the time of the Vesuvius eruption, and the bombings during World War II also damaged it. It was only restored in the 1950s.
10. The Amphitheater
This huge amphitheatre was the venue for the ancient games played by the Pompeii citizens. It is a very quiet area to explore, and due to its location at the end of Pompeii, you will see few people, especially in the mornings or evenings.
It was built in 70 BCE and is one of the oldest Roman amphitheatres still standing. It is the oldest Roman amphitheatre still in existence.
11. Great Palestra
The “Great Palace” was a youth group meeting place and exercise park located right next to the Amphitheater. It was used for games and sports and also had a swimming pool.
This is another place where you can escape the crowds, as there are not many tourists who visit.
12. House of Sallustio
It is one of Pompeii’s oldest houses, with parts dating back to the 4th Century BCE. A large and prestigious residence, it was probably a palace. It is possible that the upper floors were used as inns at one time.
In the back, there’s a covered porch, a garden, a fresco depicting Diana, and a small food shop. A bomb damaged the walls of the back during World War II. These were later restored.
Visit Pompeii with these 12 tips.
1. Be aware of closings. Even if it says so, not all attractions are open. A number of places that you should have been able to enter were closed. One was even closing while I was exploring. You should check the hours in person, as online information may not be accurate.
2. Start at the back. To avoid crowds, start from the temples that are the furthest away. Pompeii is a popular tourist destination, but you can avoid the crowds by visiting the main area after the crowds disperse in the late afternoon.
3. The audio guide is a waste of time. I purchased the audio tour, and it was a complete waste of my time. The free book provides enough information, and the audio guide does not explain much more.
4. Time is limited. Guided tours are a great way to learn. I’ve listened to several while walking and was amazed at their knowledge. I also like the ability to ask questions and get more information. However, unless it is a private tour, you will only see the highlights of the city on a guided tour.
5. Bring plenty of water. It can get very hot in the summer. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen to prevent getting burned. Also, a hat would be advisable.
6. Pack some snacks. There are only a few snack bars and cafes in the area, but you may not find them for quite a while if you explore far into the ruins. Bring some snacks with you to enjoy during your day of exploration.
7. The easiest way to get there is by train. You must go to Pompei Scavi-Villa Dei Misteri Station, as the main Pompeii Station only leads you to modern Pompeii.
8. Beware of scams and pickpockets. As Pompeii attracts so many visitors (more than 2.5 million visits every year), it is not uncommon for people to try to take advantage. Scams can include selling fake or overpriced train and bus tickets or claiming that an entrance is closed. Beware of pickpockets at the train station and entrances.
9. Bring a small purse or day bag instead of a large backpack.
10. Select your tour carefully. If you are going to take a tour, make sure it is an official one from the inside of the gate. Many tours are offered outside the gate but are larger and less enjoyable (although they are cheaper). Take Walks is the best option. Their tours are always very informative.
11. Wear sturdy shoes – the ruins are spread out, and you will be walking for a long time. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (no flip-flops).
12. Purchase tickets online to avoid the long lines. Pompeii is a popular destination, so expect long lines at the opening. Get your tickets in advance to avoid the crowds.
How to get to Pompeii
If you are coming from Naples, the train is a great way to reach Pompeii. Take the Sorrento Circumvesuviana from Naples and get off in Pompeii. The trip takes 40 minutes and costs approximately 3.50 EUR. It takes only 5 minutes to walk from the station.
If you are coming by car, it’s a 30-minute drive. There is no free parking at the site. However, several municipal and private lots charge a fee nearby.
The site will begin restricting daily visitors in 2025 to preserve it.
Maximum of 15,000 tickets per day (divided between Pompeii Express and Pompei+).
Maximum 5,000 admissions from 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm? (divided in 3,000 for Pompeii Express and 2,000 for Pompei +).
The site is open daily from April 1 until October 31 (last entry at 5:30 pm) and 9 am-5 pm from November 1 to March 31 (last entry at 3:30 pm). Each attraction has its opening and closing hours, but the previous entry starts 1-1.5 hours prior to closing. Check pompeiisites.org for updated hours.
Pompeii: Where to stay
Pompeii can be found near Naples. This is the ideal place to stay for your trip. You’ll find a variety of accommodations in the city. From hostels to luxury hotels, you can choose something to suit your budget. To help you start, here are some suggestions:
Hostel Of The Sun This social, laid-back hostel is conveniently located in the centre of the city, making it the perfect choice for budget-conscious travellers. The hostel has a colorful and cozy common area, and the staff is very friendly. It’s a homey environment that makes you feel like you are staying with a friend.
Villa Margherita—The rooms are small but very comfortable. It’s in a great location, but what really makes it special are the fresh pastries served each morning with their amazing coffee. This is the place to stay if you are looking for great service and a reasonable price.
Palazzo Alabardieri – This four-star hotel offers a huge, ornate lobby and rooms with soothing pastel colours. The rooms are located in an old cloister and feature AC (a necessity in the summer), flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi and a bar. The location is great, too.
Visit Pompeii FAQ
How much time do you need to spend in Pompeii?
If you want to see it all, plan to stay a whole day. Three to four hours is enough time to visit the main attractions.
Is it necessary to pay for Pompeii’s visit?
Yes! The basic ticket is 18 EUR (which gives you access to the main sites), and the all-access ticket, which includes everything else, is 22 EUR.
Do I need to book a tour guide?
A guide is recommended if you do not have a book or want to get a more in-depth, insightful experience. You’ll benefit from a guide if there is little signage.
Take Walks is a reputable tour company that offers a 3-hour informative tour of the site. You can also book a guide at the entrance (you will see many hanging around). There is a 3-hour informative tour as well as an all-day tour, which includes Pompeii, a drive on the Amalfi coast and a thorough tour. Tickets cost 59 EUR (for the 3-hour tour) and 189 EUR (for the full-day trip, including tickets that allow you to skip the lines).
Is it necessary to book Pompeii tickets in advance?
Online tickets for Pompeii and Boscoreale can be purchased in advance. You must book in advance if you are visiting on a public holiday or a weekend.
How Many Tourists Visit Pompeii Each Year?
Pompeii, one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, attracts over 2.5 million visitors each year. It can get busy!
When is the best time to visit Pompeii?
Summer is the best time to visit, but it is also the busiest and most hot. Visit during the shoulder seasons (May or October) to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. If you plan to visit during the summer months, make sure to bring sunscreen because the site is highly exposed to the sun.
Pompeii was a huge place, and I only scratched its surface during the day I spent there! I would love to return one day and see all the buildings that I missed. Then again, I am a history nerd and could spend hours upon hours among the ruins. One day is enough for someone who doesn’t love history like I do.
You should consider visiting some lesser-known sites that are less crowded. Walking among the ruins is eerie and beautiful.