day trip rome to pompeii

• 2024 TRAVEL UPDATE
• Work with us
• Beyond Bologna
• Regions of Italy
• Travel books
• Best group tours
• Itineraries
• Accommodation Guide
• Italian phrases for travel
• Rocket Italian review: 2024 update
• Ultimate Italy Travel Planner
• City Planners
• Essential Guides
• Italy themed gift ideas
• Trip planning services

Pompeii day trip from Rome – best tours and DIY options

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

One of the most popular day trips from Rome is visiting Pompeii. The ancient city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius and preserved for centuries by lava and ash that spewed from the volcano is one of the most fascinating historical sites in the world. You could spend hours wandering along the cobbled streets of the city in awe of the way people lived almost 2000 years ago.

If you’re considering a Pompeii day trip from Rome you will need to set aside a full day of your Italy itinerary and unless you take a fully guided tour it takes a little planning.

In this guide, we share the best tours of Pompeii from Rome, how to get from Rome to Pompeii on your own and recommended activities when you get there.

Summary of options for your Pompeii DAY trip from Rome

We’ve provided full instructions on how to DIY your trip to Pompeii and a breakdown of the best tours however if you want your answers fast here is a summary.

• Guided tours from Rome start at €129 per person see below for details
• Trains – €50 per adult if purchased in advance / €90 same day travel
• Pompeii tickets – €18-22 – more info

Article contents

Best guided Pompeii tours from rome

The easiest way to see Pompeii on a day trip from Rome is to join a guided tour. This way, you can relax while in transit and listen to your guide explain history and significance of the site before you arrive. Your guide will then help navigate you through the huge site that is Pompeii and show you the main points of interest and the stories behind them.

The site itself is very poorly marked so you need some sort of information with you to fully appreciate what you are seeing. Choose a tour led by a qualified archaeologist and you will be in the best hands to discover the stories and history of Pompeii.

During the peak season from May to October, Pompeii can get very crowded. An expert guide will know how to avoid the congestion and show you the highlights of Pompeii.

We think the best Pompeii tours from Rome offer an additional stop to make the trip down from Rome very worthwhile. This would be harder to manage if you tried to do the trip on your own in a day. And the best thing is you don’t have to worry about logistics getting back to Rome because that is all taken care of.

LISTEN: New discoveries in ancient Pompeii

Day trips from Rome to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

If your itinerary just could not stretch to spending several days in the south of Italy but you really wanted to see Pompeii and Positano then Walks of Italy’s Pompeii and Amalfi Coast tour is a good choice.

Leaving early in the morning from Rome, this tour includes a guided experience of the ruins of Pompeii with an archaeologist who has in-depth knowledge of the excavations. You’ll take a peek inside private homes, villas and even an ancient restaurant to discover what life was like before Vesuvius eruption froze the city in time.

After visiting Pompeii, you’ll take a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast to picturesque Positano. Here you will have time for lunch and exploring before returning to Rome.

Note – many people use this tour as a transfer service to Positano. Simply make a note on your booking if you wish to do this.

This is a full day (13 hour) tour departing from Rome at 07:15 am. From November to March this tour visits Sorrento in place of Positano where many of the shops and restaurants have closed for the season.

Why we like this tour

If you only have one day to reach the southern part of Italy while visiting Rome, this tour gives you a taste of the salty sea air of Positano and the history of Pompeii. It’s a small group tour so you won’t be part of a big crowd.

Tour Highlights

• Guided tour of Pompeii with an archaeologist
• Skip the line entry
• Scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast
• Free time for lunch, shopping or swimming in Positano

DISCOVER: Pompeii from Rome with winery lunch (Review of Walks of Italy tour)

Pompeii day trip from Rome with a stop in Sorrento

This small group tour from Rome to Pompeii includes a full guided tour of Pompeii and free time in Sorrento.  Your group will travel to Pompeii by mini coach where you are shown the sights of Pompeii by an archaeologist. After exploring the site, you transfer to Sorrento where you can enjoy the relaxing seaside vibes and views before returning to Rome.

This is a full day (12 hour) tour departing from Rome at 07:00am and there are daily departures.

This is a well designed (but most of all fun) tour delivered by passionate guides who bring the stories and history of Pompeii to life.

• Tour leader plus archaeologist led tour of Pompeii
• Free time in Sorrento with time for lunch and limoncello
• Small group – avoid the crowds
• Departures: Mon, Wed, Sat

CityWonders – Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Join City Wonders Pompeii from Rome day trip (available on GetYourGuide) from Rome and not only are you able to explore Pompeii but in summer you can also climb Mount Vesuvius the volcano that destroyed the city.

This tour combines history and outdoor activity for a full day of fun exploring the destruction of Pompeii. Your group of 24 people or less will transfer by air-conditioned coach to Pompeii where your guide will walk you through the main sights, explaining the events of that fateful day in 79AD.

In the summer months, you’ll then be taken to Mount Vesuvius where, after a 30 minute hike, you’ll enjoy views of Pompeii, Naples and the bay before the journey back to Rome. After mid-November the hiking trails on Vesuvius are closed so the tour continues in Naples after a panoramic drive.

This is a full day (12 hour) tour departing from Rome at 07:30 am. This tour runs daily in summer, with a reduced schedule in the winter months.

There’s nothing like getting perspectives from nature and humanity to appreciate the force of Vesuvius. Seeing the preserved city and getting up close with its destroyer are unique experiences you cannot have anywhere else in the world. City Wonders (formerly Dark Rome) are a highly regarded tour operator with expert guides.

• Guided tour of Pompeii
• Free time in Pompeii to explore at leisure
• Climb Mount Vesuvius for views of Pompeii and the bay of Naples

How to do a day trip from Rome to Pompeii on your own

If you’re on a budget or simply like traveling on your own steam, this section explains how to organize your day trip to Pompeii from Rome on your own.

You will need to think about transport, tickets and tours – recommended because the site is poorly marked. We have outlined the options for all of these factors below.

READ: our guide on How to buy tickets for Pompeii

DAY TRIP FROM Rome to Pompeii by train

With several departures per hour, the fast frecciarossa trains from Rome to Naples followed by the local train to Pompeii is the best way to do a day trip on your own. Your travel time from Roma Termini to Pompeii is around 2 hours and the station for Pompeii is right outside the main entrance.

Take the fast train to Napoli Centrale from Roma Termini – this takes around 70 minutes and will cost from €13 one way and €27 return if you purchase tickets with a set date and time in advance. You can purchase tickets on your day of travel but you will often pay a higher base fare.

We recommend Omio to book your train and transport travel within Italy because it is has schedules, pricing and tickets for both major train operators in Italy and is easy to use

In Naples, you need to transfer to the Circumvesuviana Naples-Sorrento local railway at Napoli Porta Garibaldi station (downstairs from Napoli Centrale) to get to Pompeii. This is a local metro system train which you will need a separate ticket for. The fare is €3.60 one way and you can buy your ticket at the office next to the platform. There is no need to buy these tickets in advance.

The Circumvesuviana trains start running at 06:10 am with departures every half hour or so. The journey takes around 35 minutes. Please note this local train can be crowded and is not air-conditioned. It is also notorious for pickpockets so keep your belongings safe.

You need the Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri stop. It is a bit confusing because there are several Pompeii stations. Please ignore those, this is the one you need. For timetable and ticketing information visit the Circumsvesuviana site here .

Returning to Rome from Pompeii

When it is time to return to Rome simply take the return Circumvesuviana train from Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri stop and get off at Napoli Porta Garibaldi. From there head upstairs to the intercity train station. Services to Rome from Napoli Centrale depart regularly until around 20:15 pm. The last fast train to Rome is at 20:30 pm.

READ: our Italy train travel guide

DIRECT SERVICE FROM Rome TO Pompeii (LIMITED)

From August 2023 a new, limited service direct from Rome Termini to Pompeii is available. Running only on Sundays with one return trip available, it leaves Rome in the morning and returns 9 hours later. We recommend including a side trip to Naples or Sorrento as 9 hours is a bit much for even the most enthusiastic Pompeii visitor.

Shuttle bus from Rome to Pompeii

If you don’t want to bother with train transfers and ticketing you could always take a shuttle bus service from Rome . The bus leaves at 07:30 am from a departure point close to Rome Termini station.

Please note – this is simply a shuttle and not a tour so there will be minimal to no commentary. 

The bus shuttle service operates daily – > click here for prices

Pompeii opening hours

1st April – 31st October

• 09:00 – 19:00 [last entry at 17:30]

1st November – 31st March

• 09:00 – 17:00 [last entry at 15:30]

The site is open daily except for 1 January, 1 May, 25 December. Exhibit and other closure information can be found here

Pompeii tickets and tours

Like most of the major attractions in Italy, there can often be long lines for entry. While Pompeii is not as crowded as the Vatican Museums or Colosseum, if there are cruise ships in port in Naples you can still wait a long time for tickets. If you want to skip the line at Pompeii it is best to book these tickets in advance.

Here are the best sites to get your tickets for Pompeii:

• Pompeii Scavi official website – ticketing is managed by Ticketone – a booking fee applies
• Pompeii fast track entry on GetYourGuide – authorized ticket partner – a booking fee applies
• More ticket options for Pompeii

Note – Adult ticket prices start from €18. The site is free to enter for children of all nationalities under the age of 18 – you will need to show passport or ID for this. Other discounts and offers apply for EU nationals. Check the Pompeii website for details

Do I need to join a POMPEII tour or can I explore on my own?

We think a tour is a good idea at Pompeii. The various buildings and highlights are poorly marked and described so without a tour you’re basically wandering around not knowing what you are looking at and likely missing some of the most important and interesting aspects of Pompeii.

You will be offered tours when you arrive but you really have no way of knowing if they are any good. If you choose this option be mindful to look for a tour guide with a badge issued by the Region of Campania or book at the information desk at Porta Marina or Piazza Esedra. Note that these tours are private tours as the site itself does not offer tours.

We recommend booking your tours in advance and meeting the guide when you get to Pompeii. That way you can read reviews and find one that suits you and your plans for the day. We suggest:

• 2 hour walking tour of Pompeii – departs at various intervals from 9.30 am, including the afternoon until to 3.00 pm, so you don’t need to be up too early in Rome. Prices from €43 per person
• Archaeologist-led Pompeii tour – tour starting at 9:00 am, into the afternoon until 3.30 pm giving you time to explore Naples before returning to Rome 
• Small group tour of the Pompeii ruins – tour running at various times from 9.30 am through to 3.30 pm, guided by a professional archaeologist with no more than 20 people. Prices from €53. Spanish, German and French tours also available.

Another option is to download an audio guide. We suggest Rick Steves audio tour of Pompeii – more info but you can also rent an audioguide when you get there.

READ: our guide to making the best of your time on a Visit to Pompeii

What else can we do before returning to Rome?

As mentioned above, many group tours offer an extra stop in Naples, Sorrento, or even a climb up Mount Vesuvius. If you wanted to do this yourself, that is possible too however it does make for a long day. Here are some options:

Pizza and sightseeing in Naples

Take the Circumvesuviana train back to Piazza Garibaldi.  Then head straight for Antica Pizzeria da Michele [Via Cesare Sersale, 1, Naples] where your Margherita pizza is made to perfection by the Condurro family – 5th generation pizza makers.

After a delicious lunch, you can explore Naples on foot before returning to Rome. Don’t miss – the grand sweeping Piazza del Plebiscito, the National Archaeological Museum, Palazzo Reale and the Duomo (Cathedral). Luckily if you need another slice of the delicious pizza before you go, your lunch stop is right near the train station.

DISCOVER: the best pizza in Naples

Climb Vesuvius

Buses to Vesuvius depart from outside the Pompei Scavi Circumvesuviana station. Buses run every hour from 08:00 am to 15:00pm.  It takes about 55 minutes to reach the Vesuvius ticket office and costs €3.10 each way. You can buy tickets from the bus driver.

Once you reach the ticket office it is a 30 minute hike to the crater. There is an entrance fee of €10 to access the park which includes a guided tour. You can read more about the hiking trails and visitor information here .

Make sure to bring sturdy shoes, a hat and a jacket in the cooler months as winds can make it quite cold at the crater. The last bus departs Vesuvius for Pompeii at 17:40 pm

Wander Sorrento

Continue along the Circumvesuviana line from Pompeii to Sorrento. The journey takes around 30 minutes. In Sorrento , you can wander the town and enjoy views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius rising above Pompeii. Or, if you’re hungry, take the elevator down to Marina Grande and enjoy a seafood feast by the sea.

Famous for the delicious liqueur limoncello, in Sorrento, you can visit a secluded lemon grove where you can try and buy some to take back with you to Rome.

LISTEN: to Limoncello – Simply the zest!

FAQ and Tips for visiting Pompeii

How much time should we spend visiting Pompeii?

The minimum amount of time to spend at the site is 2 hours. This is enough to quickly see the highlights but not much more. Remember that Pompeii was a city home to over 17,000 people and the site itself covers 64 to 67 hectares (170 acres). You can easily spend 4-5 hours here if you are a history buff.

What are some of the must see highlights of Pompeii?

The amphitheatre, Villa of the Mysteries where you can see one of Pompeii’s famous wall paintings, Stabian Baths – richly decorated Roman bathing house, Temple of Isis – an incredibly well preserved temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess, House of the Small Fountain with gorgeous frescoes and paintings. I really enjoyed the reconstructed vineyard which actually produces wine.

What should we wear and take?

The site at Pompeii is exposed with very little shade and cover. Check the weather before you go and make sure you are prepared. In summer you should take a hat, sunscreen and wear light, loose clothing. When it is cooler bring a rain coat and umbrella.

No matter the season you will need sturdy shoes suitable for walking, plenty of water and snacks. There are minimal facilities at the site to purchase food and drinks.

Please note – bags, backpacks, luggage, or cases with dimensions exceeding 30x30x15cm are not allowed. You can leave large bags (but not your luggage) at the cloakroom services provided at the entrances.

Is the site suitable for children?

Yes, it is. We took our then 4 year old twins to Pompeii and enjoyed our time there. The site is great for exploring and safe for little ones as there are no cars. We were there in Spring and the weather was perfect. I’d probably reconsider with little ones during summer when it gets very hot.

You can bring your stroller and there are specially marked routes suitable for prams as well as three baby change facilities – Via dell’Abbondanza, Via di Nola, and at the corner of Via Stabiana and Via della Fortuna.

Older children will no doubt be fascinated by the history of the volcano and city. If you think you need some help firing their imaginations, you could join a family friendly tour of Pompeii with guides who know just how to bring the site to life for little minds.

Enjoy Pompeii!

Your Pompeii day trip from Rome will no doubt be one of the highlights of your trip to Italy. One of the most unique historic sites in the world, it is such a treat to see this city frozen in time.

We are sure your visit to Pompeii will stir in you a curiosity to find out more about the cities and culture of Ancient Rome. There are many Roman sites to visit throughout Italy however Pompeii is no doubt the most famous and intriguing.

DISCOVER: more day trips from Rome

Italy City Guides

Latest italy travel podcasts and articles, episode #230: vatican jubilee 2025 – what to expect in rome and italy, how to get from rome to amalfi coast, rome jubilee 2025: tips and information for planning your visit, best place to stay in rome: districts and neighborhood guide [2024], how to buy tickets for the colosseum in rome, rome airport transfers: how to get from the airport to the city center in rome, hidden gems in rome: off the beaten path in the eternal city, planning a trip to italy.

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 140,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

Sign up for our news and podcast updates where we share mini guides, tips, exclusive deals and more and we'll send you our Italy Trip Planning Checklist to say grazie ! >> click here to subscribe

Please share if you found this article useful

7 Best Pompeii Day Trips from Rome (Guided Tours in 2024)

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » 7 Best Pompeii Day Trips from Rome (Guided Tours in 2024)

Have you been wondering about the 2024 best Pompeii day trip from Rome? I’ve got you covered!

Pompeii, the UNESCO World Heritage site, requires no introduction.

Whether you seek history, the poignant tale of Pompeii and the volcanic eruption, or a plethora of ancient Roman architecture, it offers it all.

We have had the privilege of visiting Italy thrice, including a memorable three-month expedition with our children on our latest vacation.

During our travels, we explored Pompeii extensively and marveled at its wonders.

Is a visit to Pompeii worth it? Absolutely!

However, if you are staying in Rome, what’s the most ideal way to explore this remarkable site?

In this article, you will find the best day trips from Rome to Pompeii, our handpicked selection of the seven finest Pompeii excursions from the Eternal City of Rome.

🏆 BEST POMPEII DAY TRIP FROM ROME

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this full-day trip to Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii Pompeii Day Trip with Mt. Vesuvius or Amalfi Coast Option

Quick Guide: Best Pompeii Day-trip from Rome

After a quick list of the top Pompeii day trips from Rome? Here are the best tours.

Day Trip with Mt. Vesuvius or Amalfi Coast Option

• Duration: approx 13 hours
• Type of Tour: full-day guided tour
• Included: round-trip transportation from Rome, skip-the-line access & an expert archaeologist guide at Pompeii

Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip

• Type of Tour: Full-day tour to Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano
• Included: Round-trip transport from Rome, a guide and skip-the-line access and a reservation fee for Pompeii

Private Tour Amalfi Coast and Pompeii Day Trip

• Duration: approx 10-12 hours
• Type of Tour: Private tour
• Included: pick-up from the hotel, a guide and limoncello taste in Positano or Amalfi

Best Pompeii Day Trip from Rome

Discover the ultimate guide to the most incredible Pompeii day trip from Rome. Your only challenge remains: selecting the perfect one!

1. Pompeii Day Trip with Mt. Vesuvius or Amalfi Coast Option

Tour Overview:

• Tour Type:  Full-day trip to Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii or an option to upgrade to Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano trip from Rome via an air-conditioned coach
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 5100+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii Archeological Park, Vesuvius National Park, Amalfi and Positano (if option selected)
• Departure Point:  At the center of Piazza del Popolo, by the large fountain with the lions and the obelisk.
• Length:  13 hours
• Check Tour Price on Viator

For seeking the ultimate Pompeii day trip from Rome , look no further!

Hop aboard our comfortable coach in central Rome and begin your journey south to Italy’s captivating Campania region.

Wander through the historic Forum and Teatro Grande, once accommodating up to 5,000 spectators.

Engage yourself in the daily life of Pompeii’s inhabitants as you stroll along ancient streets adorned with long-lost shops, cafes, and even brothels.

Take in the sights at your own pace during your leisure time.

Prepare for a breathtaking experience as you venture towards the infamous volcano, Mount Vesuvius.

Embark on a steady-paced walk to reach the summit.

As the day draws to a close, board the coach and make your way back to Rome, dropping you off at the starting point.

Please note that from mid-November to March, Mount Vesuvius is inaccessible, and is replaced the hike with a visit to the iconic city of Naples instead.

Enjoy a panoramic bus tour and ample free time to wander through the city center. Get ready for an engaging and unforgettable day!

This day was fantastic from start to finish! Mariana was an amazing tour guide who was very knowledgeable and kept us all entertained on the journey to and from Pompeii. A rest stop is included part way through the tour which was perfect for food, drink or rest. The guide to Pompeii Gianno was brilliant and we saw a lot of the site in the 90 minutes we had there. Then we had the climb up Vesuvius which we did at our own leisure the view was incredible. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone! Liam_H(Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Important Note:

– Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

– Lunch is at your own expense.

– Private, air-conditioned coach journey from Rome is inclusive of round-trip transportation.

– Park admission tickets are included in the package.

– To visit Mount Vesuvius, it is necessary to furnish the names of all passengers during the booking process. Failure to comply may result in denial of entry.

– During the period from early November to March, access to Vesuvius is not available. As an alternative, a visit to Positano is offered, allowing you ample free time to explore the city.

– Ascending to the crater of Vesuvius demands a decent level of overall fitness. The uphill trek, with a gradient of 14 degrees, lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Why You Will Love This Tour:

• Discover this picturesque town renowned for its UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, brimming with a treasure trove of ancient relics.
• Explore its ancient streets and uncover the enchanting remnants of shops, cafes, and even brothels, unraveling the captivating tales of this historical place.
• Experience an exhilarating climb up the volcano’s slope and be captivated by the breathtaking view of the majestic crater.

Experience the wonders of Pompeii on a thrilling day trip from Rome.

Choose between the awe-inspiring Mt. Vesuvius or the stunning Amalfi Coast. Embark on a private, air-conditioned coach with a maximum of 50 travelers.

This one-of-a-kind tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking a remarkable escape from the bustling city.

2. Semi-Private Tour: Pompeii, Positano and Amalfi Coast

• Tour Type:  A full-day small group tour limited to 8 people with a driver-guide and lunch at a country restaurant.
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 1800+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii Archaelogical Park, Forum, Sorrento Coast, Amalfi Coast, Positano,Spiaggia Grande, Amalfi, Sorrento
• Departure Point:  Piazza Barberini in front of the Barberini Cinema – pick up time will be between 7:00 am and 7:15 am
• Length:  12 hours

Experience the ultimate semi-private tour of Pompeii, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast – a perfect day trip for travelers seeking both historical exploration and breathtaking beauty.

Depart from Rome and embark on a full-day adventure guided by a knowledgeable driver.

Indulge in a delicious lunch at a charming country restaurant nestled on the hills, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.

Enjoy yourself in the timeless charm of Positano, strolling along its beaches and soaking up the picturesque atmosphere.

Delve into the captivating UNESCO-listed site of Pompeii through an engaging walking tour.

This meticulously crafted itinerary guarantees an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural wonders.

This was an excellent trip! Was able to see a lot in the span of one day. Positano was beautiful, wish we could have been there a bit longer than an hour. Pompeii was excellent and so was the tour guide. He was very knowledgeable and friendly. The driver was exceptional, helpful and very nice! Tatiana_O(Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Lunch is included in the tour.

– Park admission tickets are inclusive.

– Please note that a minimum number of participants is required for this activity. In the event that the minimum requirement is not met, there is a possibility of cancellation or a full refund.

– Infant seats can be provided upon request, but please make sure to advise them during the booking process.  Infants or children who are not notified at the time of booking cannot be accommodated.

– The tour will conveniently pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Rome. If your accommodation is located outside the city center (beyond the Aurelian walls), a central meeting spot awaits you at Piazza Barberini.

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at a picturesque countryside restaurant, perched on the hills, offering breathtaking views of the enchanting Bay of Naples.
• Savor your leisure moments in the enchanting village of Positano, where you can leisurely wander along its pristine beaches and indulge in picturesque surroundings.
• Discover the enchanting UNESCO-listed archeological site of Pompei, where history comes to life.

Experience the enchanting semi-private Pompeii, Positano, and Amalfi Coast tour, tailored for a small group of up to 8 travelers.

With a knowledgeable driver-guide, enjoy a full-day excursion, complete with convenient pick-up and drop-off at your centrally located accommodation in Rome.

Discover the best day trip from Rome as you explore the captivating wonders of Pompeii.

3. Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip

• Tour Type:  A full-day guided tour to Pompeii and Positano with round-trip transport directly from Rome
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 1700+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano

Experience the wonders of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano on an unforgettable day trip .

Ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free Pompeii day trip from Rome, this excursion offers seamless full-day transportation, priority entry to Pompeii, and a knowledgeable guide to navigating the intricate ruins.

Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast as you journey along its scenic coastal drive.

Revel in your free time to explore the charming fishing village of Positano, enjoying yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and captivating shops.

Prepare for an engaging adventure filled with discovery and beauty.

We were a group of 10 and had a wonderful time despite the rain. Heather our host and Luca our driver were phenomenal. Heather was cheerful, fun and had the best stories. Luca was amazing at making it through tight spaces. It was miraculous that he never bumped into anything. The scenery in Positano was beautiful and the tour in Pompeii was spectacular and educational. Thanks for a fantastic day! Rana_B(Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Guests are responsible for covering their own expenses for food and beverages.

• Explore the preserved ancient villas, public baths, exquisite restaurants, grand theatres, and perhaps even a brothel at Pompeii.
• Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast as you journey along its renowned scenic coastal drive.
• Enjoy the delightful journey through the winding streets adorned with charming local boutiques, each offering a unique artisanal experience, and savoring the exquisite taste of the region’s famed specialty, limoncello.

Experience a hassle-free, full-day excursion to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano!

This exclusive tour offers round-trip transport from Rome in a private, air-conditioned coach, accommodating a maximum of 50 travelers.

Ideal for those seeking a delightful day trip from Rome to Pompeii while enjoying the enchanting beauty of the Amalfi Coast and Positano.

4. Private Tour: Amalfi Coast and Pompeii Day Trip

• Tour Type:  A private guided day trip to visit two of southern Italy’s UNESCO-listed Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast via an air-conditioned minivan
• Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 100+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii Archaeological Park, Positano, Amalfi Coast
• Departure Point:  Pick-up and drop-off to the hotels, apartments, bed and breakfast, and accommodations. Please ensure that the address is provided when making the reservation.
• Length:  10-12 hours

Experience the enchanting Amalfi Coast and Pompeii on a private tour , a perfect day trip choice from Rome.

This all-inclusive package includes free hotel pickup and drop-off in central Rome.

The first stop will be Pompeii, where you can explore notable sights such as the Macellum food market, thermal baths, dining areas, and the opulent homes of the city’s elite.

Afterward, take a break in the picturesque town of Positano for a delightful lunch, relaxation, and shopping.

As you venture along the Amalfi Coast, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the limoncello factories for a tasting of the renowned liqueur.

Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide valuable insights and recommendations for exploring the area, while also allowing plenty of free time to soak in the beauty of these remarkable locations.

Conclude the journey with a scenic drive back to Rome, adorned with unforgettable vistas of the Amalfi Coast.

Dina (our guide) and Max (our driver) were absolutely fantastic. My wife and I chose the private tour and it was very much worth the extra money. There is a lot of driving on this tour and Dina and Max made sure that time flew by with their engaging stories and humorous banter. Pompeii was fascinating and the local guide (we think his name was Antonio) was so full of incredible information it seemed as if he had grown up there and had witnessed the volcano himself. The stop in Positano was also very enjoyable. Many cool shops and a delightful lunch by the sea. This was far our favorite tour out of Rome (and we did many). Go private! Randall_C (Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Complimentary pick-up and drop-off services to hotels, apartments, bed and breakfast establishments, and other accommodations are provided (inside the city center only)

– Lunch and drinks are not provided.

– Limoncello tasting in Positano or Amalfi is included.

• Visit remarkable sights in Pompeii such as the Macellum food market, the thermal baths, the elegant dining areas, and the opulent homes of the city’s wealthiest citizens.
• Enjoy a perfect day in Positano with a delightful lunch, blissful relaxation, and shopping opportunities. 
• Experience the delight of visiting a renowned limoncello factory, where you can indulge in a tasting session of this renowned liqueur.

The Amalfi and Pompeii private tour offers a truly exclusive experience, ensuring complete privacy for your group.

Limited to a maximum of 12 people, you’ll travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan, which can accommodate up to 6 individuals, including children.

This is an ideal day trip option for travelers seeking to visit Pompeii from Rome.

5. Day Trip to Pompeii with Lunch and Guide

• Tour Type:  A full-day guided trip to Pompeii and Naples via an air-conditioned bus with lunch
• Guest Rating: 4.4 Stars (Reviewed by over 500+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii Archaeological Park, Naples
• Departure Point:  Meet at Viale Luigi Enaudi, by the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs.
• Length:  1 day
• Check Tour Price on Get Your Guide

Experience the perfect day trip to Pompeii from Rome! Start with a convenient central pick-up in Rome, followed by boarding a comfortable air-conditioned bus.

As you journey through picturesque rolling hills, savor the breathtaking views en route to Naples.

From there, continue along the captivating coastline towards Mount Vesuvius and the historic town of Pompeii.

Before reaching the archaeological site of Pompeii, relish a delectable traditional lunch of Neapolitan pizza paired with a refreshing drink.

With skip-the-line tickets, immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pompeii accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Explore the ancient streets, while delving deep into the captivating history of this extraordinary place.

A truly engaging and unforgettable adventure awaits!

First, it is a long day so be prepared. The buses were comfortable and they make a stop each way for a bathroom and coffee break. Our professional guide at Pompeii was awesome and made the entire ride worth it. We did drive into Naples and get to see some of the city from the bus and get a picture of the ocean but it wasn’t totally worth it, at least for us. It was good to say we saw it I guess but Pompeii was the star, and totally worth it Mark-United States (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

– The package includes convenient round-trip transportation from Rome.

– The meal provided includes a delicious pizza and a refreshing beverage.

– Enjoy the convenience of a skip-the-line entrance ticket to Pompeii and skip the queues.

– The guide is automatically included unless you specifically choose the audio guide option.

– The tour provides headsets to ensure optimal clarity in hearing the guide’s instructions.

– To French and German speakers, a minimum of 10 participants is necessary to confirm the tour in preferred language. In the event that this minimum requirement is not met, the tour will be conducted in English.

• Choose between a live tour guide (tour operator) or an audio tour guide available in various languages.
• Indulge in an authentic Neapolitan pizza for a delightful lunchtime experience.
• Hop on a journey across the picturesque Italian countryside, where breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, the majestic Mount Vesuvius, and an abundance of captivating historical landmarks await your exploration.

Experience a captivating day trip to Pompeii, complete with a delectable Neapolitan pizza lunch and an expert guide .

Discover the wonders of Naples and Pompeii on a fully guided, full-day tour of Pompeii, while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned bus.

Ideal for travelers seeking to explore Pompeii from Rome in a single day.

6. Rome to Pompeii Tour with Wine and Lunch

• Tour Type:  A full-day tour via high-speed rail from Rome to Naples and air-conditioned shuttle from Naples to Pompeii with wine tasting and lunch for a maximum group of 20 individuals
• Guest Rating: 4.5 Stars (Reviewed by over 300+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Stazione Roma Termini, Stazione Napoli Centrale, Pompeii, Pompeii Archaeological Park
• Departure Point:  Caffe Vergnano 1882 – Via Marsala, 29/Binario 1, Roma Italy
• Length:  9 hours

Experience an unforgettable journey from Rome to Pompeii, immersing yourself in the wonders of this historic city with a touch of luxury.

Join a fully guided skip-the-line tour of Pompeii, exploring its ancient ruins and unraveling the mysteries of the past.

But the experience doesn’t end there. Indulge your senses with a delightful wine tasting and savor a farm-to-table lunch at a picturesque vineyard nestled on the slopes of majestic Mt. Vesuvius.

Throughout the day, relax and enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation by high-speed rail and air-conditioned shuttle , allowing you to unwind while soaking up the beauty and stories of this captivating region.

Join this engaging and enriching Pompeii day trip from Rome, where history, culture, and culinary delights converge.

Every part of this tour was outstanding. Transport – super knowledgeable and personable tour guide – great experience in the ruins and closing out the day with wine tasting and lunch at the vineyard was such a nice touch. High speed train made it comfortably do-able in one day from Rome. Highly recommend. David_S (Read More  Reviews on Viator ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– It includes a convenient round-trip high-speed train from Rome to Naples and an air-conditioned shuttle from Naples to Pompeii.

– Includes delicious farm-to-table light lunch and wine tasting.

– A minimum number of travelers is necessary for this experience. If the minimum is not met and the experience is canceled, you will have the option to choose a different date or experience or receive a full refund.

• Experience a comfortable train ride to Pompeii that is both beautiful and relaxing. With reduced travel time, the one-way journey takes just one hour and 20 minutes.
• Delight in the pleasure of a wine-tasting experience, followed by indulging in a delectable farm-to-table lunch.
• Experience the charm of a local winery nestled on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius. Discover the captivating tale of a family rooted in generations of grape cultivation in fertile volcanic soil.

Experience the Rome to Pompeii tour with a delightful train ride that offers both comfort and relaxation.

This scenic journey takes you from Rome to Naples in just one hour and 20 minutes, significantly reducing travel time.

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this day trip to Pompeii from Rome is perfect for those seeking to explore this historical site.

Indulge in a wine and lunch package while marveling at the beauty along the way.

7. Pompeii and Sorrento Day Trip

• Tour Type:  A guided tour to Pompeii and Sorrento to a small group maximum of 18 travelers
• Guest Rating: 4.3 Stars (Reviewed by over 40+ travelers)
• Tour Sights & Stops:  Pompeii, Sorrento
• Departure Point:  Piazzale Ostiense, at the bottom of the Pyramid on the side facing the metro station

Experience an unforgettable day trip from Rome to Pompeii and Sorrento!

Join a guided tour of Pompeii, led by an expert Archaeologist who will unveil the secrets of this ancient city of Pompeii buried beneath the ashes.

Travel in comfortable, climate-controlled transportation to Pompeii, with skip-the-line tickets ensuring a seamless experience.

After immersing yourself in the captivating history of Pompeii, take some leisure time to explore the charming coastal town of Sorrento.

Indulge in the local cuisine, savoring the delectable flavors of gelato or limoncello like Nocillo, Finochietto, or Arancello.

This is a day trip that promises cultural enrichment, culinary delights, and memories to cherish.

I knew this was going to be a long day with lots of driving, but the bus was great and comfortable for us (couple in mid 30s) and my parents (couple in late 60s). Really didn’t have much expectation of Sorrento, but it was spectacular! We used the free time to check out the water front/beach clubs and my parents checked out the churches! The lunch spot was unforgettable and the view was a highlight for all of us! Pompeii was also great despite the heat of the day. The guide there (different than the one on the bus) was thorough and kept things moving along nicely, finding shade to help keep us as cool as possible. Highly recommend if you want to go to Pompeii from Rome and see Sorrento! Mary Elizabeth – United States (Read More  Reviews on Get Your Guide ) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

– Food and drinks are at your own expense.

– Roundtrip transportation from Rome city center is included.

– The package includes all tickets and fees.

– Bring a passport or ID card.

• Experience the convenience of skip-the-line tickets to Pompeii and make the most of your visit.
• Experience the richness of local cuisine in Sorrento, where you can relish unique gelato and limoncello flavors like Nocillo, Finochietto, and Arancello.
• Accompanied by an expert guide, discover the preserved structures and remnants that offer glimpses into the daily life of this ancient city. 

Experience the ultimate comfort of a climate-controlled round-trip transportation from Rome on an exquisite day trip to Pompeii and Sorrento.

Delve into the wonders of these captivating destinations with a small group of fellow explorers, limited to just 18 people.

This exclusive 1-day tour caters to travelers seeking the perfect excursion from Rome to Pompeii.

FAQs About the Best Pompeii Day-Trip from Rome

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best Pompeii day trip from Rome

A trip from Rome to Pompeii is well worth your time. It offers a rare opportunity to wander through the streets of an ancient city frozen in time since 79 A.D., giving you a glimpse into the lives of its past residents. Don’t miss the chance to explore this captivating piece of history!

The duration of a day trip from Rome to Pompeii may vary based on the mode of transportation you choose. Generally, it takes just over two hours to complete the journey.

To get from Rome to Pompeii, you have a few transportation options: Guided Tour, Train, or Bus. The bus route, unfortunately, takes a considerable amount of time (3 hours each way), making it less than ideal. While there is no direct train from Rome to Pompeii, there is a high-speed option available! For an easy journey from Rome to Pompeii, the most convenient option is to take the fast Frecciarossa trains from Rome to Naples, followed by a local train to Pompeii. With frequent departures, this day trip can be done independently. The travel time from Roma Termini to Pompeii is approximately 2 hours, and the Pompeii station is conveniently located just outside the main entrance. For a day trip like this, guided tours (day tours) offer the best value and the least amount of hassle.

Certainly! Experience the convenience of a high-speed train (very fast train) connection from Rome to Pompeii. With the introduction of a new route, FRECCIAROSSA trains seamlessly transport you to major Italian cities, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. This not only reduces travel time but enhances the accessibility and enjoyment of exploring the historic town of Pompeii.

Yes, you can explore Pompeii independently if an organized tour doesn’t align with your schedule or budget. Just venture there on your own and experience the city at your own pace.

Pompeii is located in the Campania region of Italy, southeast of Naples, and rests at the foot of Mount Vesuvius.

Final Thoughts on the Best Pompeii Day Trip from Rome

In conclusion, when it comes to the best Pompeii day trip from Rome, we have three outstanding and best Pompeii tours to recommend.

First, there’s the Pompeii day trip with Mt. Vesuvius and Amalfi Coast options , offering a perfect blend of history and breathtaking views.

Second, the Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano day trip , where you can explore the ruins of Pompeii and also experience the stunning Amalfi Coast and Positano’s charm.

Lastly, the private tour Pompeii and Amalfi coast tour , offers a personalized and intimate experience. If you’re craving to discover Italy even more, we invite you to explore our other posts dedicated to this enchanting country. Unveil the hidden gems, explore the rich culture, and indulge in the captivating beauty of Italy.

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Trip to Italy

Looking for additional vital advice for your upcoming trip to Italy?

• Get all the Italy travel know-how you need, from pre-travel Italy tips to your flight and holiday in Italy!
• Here’s an expertly crafted guide to help you design an unforgettable itinerary for your first trip to Italy.
• Discover the top airlines for your journey to Italy when selecting your preferred carrier. Find out more about the best options here .

Looking for the best accommodation options in Italy?

• Discover the perfect accommodations in Positano with our curated recommendations.

• Discover the finest hotels in Amalfi Town by clicking here .
• Discover the best hotels in Sorrento here .

Planning to travel to Italy with your family and kids?

• Discover the comprehensive guide to traveling to Italy with kids and experience an unforgettable family adventure!
• Discover the countless activities and attractions Florence has to offer for families with kids.
• Experience the best things to do in Rome with your little ones and create unforgettable memories.
• Experience a delightful family activity in Florence – indulge in a captivating cooking class !

Andrzej Ejmont

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

• Ferragosto - August 15
• Holidays in Rome
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Best Time to Visit Rome
• Top 10 Tips for Rome
• Bathrooms in Rome
• What to Pack & What to Wear

Money Matters

Getting Around

Getting to Rome

• Learn Italian
• Rome & Vatican Tours
• Italy Tours
• Transfers & Transport
• Sign up & get a FREE ebook  Subscribe Today!  Our New Italy Travel Website Is HERE  Visit Napleswise Now!
• Romewise Home Page
• Pompeii from Rome

Pompeii from Rome Day Trip

By Warren George

May 16, 2024

Looking to visit Pompeii from Rome?

Pompeii has to be one of the most famous ancient Roman archeological sites – its incredible legacy in understanding the lives of ancient Romans is unrivalled, and the story of its destruction rings throughout history.

Pompeii from Rome - the best tips for what to see and do

Find out the best ways to visit this world-renowned Unesco World Heritage Site.

On this page we'll cover:

What is Pompeii?

Is a pompeii day trip worth it, a (brief) history of pompeii, where is pompeii in relation to rome, how to get from rome to pompeii, how accessible is pompeii, is it possible to see the pompeii ruins for free, when is the best time to visit pompeii.

• Pompeii ticket prices and tours - all options
• Pompeii trip must-sees

Other things to see near Pompeii

Where to eat and drink in pompeii.

There are two answers to this question.

The first is that it refers to the modern town, located 23km from the center of Naples .

The modern town of Pompei is adjacent to the original settlement of Pompeii - an ancient Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, and it is how you can visit Pompeii from Rome that is the focus of this page.

Pompeii is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient Roman history or the history of Rome!

Few other sites have contributed so much to the understanding of the daily lives of the ancient Romans.

Pompeii was buried during the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE and as such became a huge time capsule, capturing a moment nearly 2000 years ago and preserving it forever.

Following its discovery in the late 16th century, Pompeii has slowly given up its secrets as archeologists have unearthed huge sections of the ancient city under layers of volcanic ash.

 🤙 Roaming in Rome? 📱

Get yourself an Italian eSIM for calls, messages and data when traveling here.

Save on data charges with plans from just 19€ from Holafly - our recommended eSIM provider!

Click here to get yours now  and use code ROMEWISE to save 5%!

Archaeological evidence suggests that people first settled in the area of Pompeii in the eighth century BCE.

Within a couple of hundred years the town began to take shape, with temples and other important buildings (some of which are still visible today) were constructed.

In the following centuries, Pompeii's fortunes fluctuated, until it came under direct rule from Rome.

Pompeii formally became a colony of Rome in 80 BCE where over the following decades substantial building projects were undertaken the city expanded greatly.

In 62 CE a strong earthquake destroyed large parts of the city - these were quickly rebuilt and more construction ordered, making Pompeii one of the area's major cities.

Only 17 years later, in August 79 CE, Mount Vesuvius erupted in what is one of the most infamous volcanic eruptions in history .

Over the course of the next few days, ash and pumice rained down on Pompeii and the surrounding area, completely burying the town.

Over the ensuing centuries people continued to live in the area of Pompeii but the town did not return to its pre-eruption eminence.

The modern town of Pompei is now home to around 25,000 people and is a key part of the extra-urban area outside of Naples with connections available to other notable areas such as the Sorrentine Peninsula and Amalfi Coast.

 Pompeii is located 210km/130 miles south of Rome, in the region of Campania.

Traveling from Rome to Pompeii is very straightforward – I can recommend three options for transportation from Rome to Pompeii:

By High Speed Train (and a local line):

To travel from Rome to Pompeii by high speed train, your departure point should be Rome’s Termini (Roma Termini) station .

You can book a ticket direct to Pompeii station on a high speed train. This is to the station for the modern town , which is around a 20 minute walk to an entrance of the archeological site.

B ook online via Trainline to see all routes, prices and keep track of your tickets while on the move.

Alternatively you can do a route that gets you closer to the archeological site.

First, travel from  Rome to Naples Centrale by high speed train, your departure point should be Rome’s Termini (Roma Termini) station .

To maximize your time at Pompeii, consider departing Roma Termini station around 8:00.

These high speed trains run multiple times per hour, and ticket prices average 40€ per person for a standard single direction ticket

Consider paying a little more (typically 10€-15€ per journey) to upgrade to a Prima coach - this is for first class passengers and guarantees access to power outlets plus other extras such as a free drink (typically a choice of water, juice or coffee - no alcohol, sorry!).

Once you arrive at Naples Centrale (journey time typically between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes), follow the signs for the ‘Circumvesuviana’ train line (sometimes labelled as 'Linee Vesuviane').

This is the line that circum vents Vesuvius , going to multiple destinations – hence the name!

Request a ticket from the counter for Pompeii Scavi and follow the directions to the train platform.

These ticket prices are fixed and it's not possible to book online.

I would recommend using a card when purchasing to reduce the cash you are carrying while on the move.

The trains run multiple times per hour and the journey from Naples takes just over a half hour.

Sadly this is not a high speed train - take the time to prep for your visit to Pompeii's ancient ruins.

Once you arrive at Pompeii Scavi train station, simply follow the signs for the archeological park. The Porta Marina main entrance is less than two minutes walk.

Note for some guided tours/tour guides the meeting point is often the Pompeii Scavi station.

A NOTE ABOUT THESE LOCAL TRAINS!

There is also a train line called the 'Campania Express' that runs between Naples and Pompeii.

These trains are less frequent than the normal line and are more expensive, but take a little less time.

Pay close attention to the timetables and plan accordingly!

Driving from Rome to Pompeii

Click here to view all parking options near Pompeii - they are all pretty similar in terms of value and service.

Select your preference using Google Maps and set off – a direct drive from Rome will take between 3 and 4 hours, depending on where you start from and allowing for rest stops.

DRIVING IN ITALY - BE PREPARED!

The freeways/motorways in Italy ( autostrade ) are mostly subject to tolls, and you should budget an average of 1€ per 10km traveled.

These tolls are paid at the toll booths ( alt stazione ).

Be sure to select the correct lane based on your preferred payment method, and avoid the yellow TELEPASS lanes – these are only for pass holders and using them unauthorized will result in a heavy fine when you come to the next toll booth.

With a tour guide or private transfer

Opting to book a guided tour or hiring a private transfer is probably the easiest option to get to Pompeii from Rome.

Guides/drivers can often offer the option of a hotel pickup and then take you directly to the Pompeii site, in an air conditioned coach with a bus driver and passionate guides.

AN EASY ALTERNATIVE TO POMPEII!

Unable to get to from Rome to Pompeii?

Consider visiting  Ostia Antica  , much closer to central Rome and reachable by train from the Piramide metro station in less than 40 minutes.

Like Pompeii, you’ll find a sprawling archeological park featuring dozens of historically significant ancient Roman monuments.

To find out more about visiting Ostia Antica, visit our dedicated page here . 

While efforts have been made to make Pompeii more accessible , visitors with mobility challenges may face difficulties both arriving at Pompeii from Rome, and then getting around the site.

Access to the train platforms for the Circumvesuviana Line at Napoli Centrale is only via stairs or escalators.

There are no lifts or other mobility assistance to get down to the platforms. Consider arranging a private transfer or taxi from the high speed train station to Pompeii, or even for the whole journey from Rome to Pompeii. 

The driving distance from Rome to Pompeii is not so far as to make it impossible for a day trip!

Access via the main Porta Marina entrance is not viable for anyone with mobility challenges due to uneven surfaces, steps and steep ramps.

The park does have an itinerary for people with motor disabilities, called 'Pompeii for All'. The accessible entrance is at Piazza Anfiteatro, and the route runs for 3.5km/2.2 miles.

For more details refer here to the official Pompeii website.

If in doubt, consider booking a private tour with an operator who is experienced in taking visitors to Pompeii with mobility challenges.

On the first Sunday of every month entrance to Pompeii is free to anyone and everyone - part of the same scheme that grants access to a lot of  free sites in Rome .

Book ahead if you plan to visit Pompeii on a free Sunday and arrive as early as possible.

It will be extremely busy.

In the event more than 15,000 people are in the park by midday, the entrances will be closed for an hour to allow existing visitors to leave.

You cannot book skip the line tickets for the Free Sundays.

Certain groups may be eligible for free (or heavily discounted) entry to Pompeii - to find out more, visit the official website  here  .

PURCHASING A PASS FOR THE AREA

Consider purchasing a Campania ArteCard if you are visiting other sites in the Naples area.

With this card you can visit two sites without further payment, and then access dozens more with a discount.

It also includes public transport (buses and trains) so the savings can quickly add up!

Find out more by visiting the official website  here .

Pompeii is open year round, and only closed on January 1, May 1 and December 25.

The Pompeii opening times and hours of operation vary according to the time of year, before making the day trip from Rome to Pompeii, be sure to check the official website.

Personally I’d recommend visiting in late May /early June or September - October if possible.

You should (no promises!) find the weather dry and warm, but not too hot!

Visiting Pompeii in fall and winter

During the cooler months , the weather in this part of Italy can be temperamental.

While clear and dry most of the time, powerful storms can form making conditions for walking around an archeological park less than desirable!

If you can only visit at this point, be sure to wear a waterproof jacket and bring a decent umbrella, just in case!

Visiting Pompeii in spring and summer

During the peak season summer months , the exposed nature of the site combined with Pompeii’s proximity to a major city (Naples), means temperatures can often be close to 100F, if not higher.

If visiting at this time of year, be sure to bring a hat, plenty of water and sunblock.

Disclosure : If you make a purchase through a link on this page, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Pompeii Tickets and Tours - All Options

For self-guided visits , the base entrance fee to Pompeii is currently 18€, but there are different ticket combinations available. Check the official website for all the different options!

Note that the standard tickets are not skip the line tickets, and it is not possible to book these directly.

To book skip the line Pompeii tickets you'll need to do this via a operator such as GetYourGuide .

Overwhelmed by the number of Pompeii tours on offer?

Our trusted partner Take Walks have very high ratings and pride themselves on giving everyone a fantastic experience.

You can choose from two Pompeii options with them, an in-depth small group tour of the site or an incredible day trip from Rome which takes you to the beautiful Amalfi Coast after a local archeologist shows you the wonders of Pompeii .

Pompeii Tours  

Browsing Rome day trips to Pompeii gives you lots of options, but t o maximize your day trip from Rome to Pompeii, consider booking a guided small group tour , and if possible, with a local guide .

Locals often know things that non-locals don't, providing a richer experience and smaller groups enable you to ask questions and make the most of your visit.

Private tours often offer full transport/transfer options to make your day tour stress-free. Several operators also offer a Vesuvius tour to enhance your day trip.

Pompeii must-sees

Pompeii is vast; when Vesuvius erupted, it is estimated the ancient town had a population of 12,000 with the same amount of people also living on the outskirts - comparable to the population of modern Pompei.

Current estimates put the percentage of excavated ground at just over two-thirds, meaning that there is still a huge part to unearth.

You could easily take a full day to see the majority of the site.

If you are very interested in ancient Roman history, consider staying a night in the area so you can split your trip from Rome to Pompeii across two days!

If you are time-limited, here are a series of absolute-must sees , which if followed in order (on the basis you enter the park from the entrance near the Pompeii Scavi train station) will take you past a lot of other notable monuments as you explore the ancient cobbled streets.

When you first arrive, be sure to look for the TV screens at the entrance where you can purchase tickets, which will advise which villas and other special locations are open that day.

The hours of these sites are sometimes restricted so if you want to visit be sure to pay close attention to the schedule !

Porta Marina & Cinta Muraria

On arrival, you'll enter the site via one of the city's original gates - this gate was the most impressive, and is called the 'Marine Gate' because it originally faced the sea and shoreline.

If you have free time, before heading through the gate, bear left and explore the bath complex here - it serves as a great introduction to the site!

After walking up the slope from the entrance, continue straight and you'll find yourself in the Forum of Pompeii.

Like the Roman Forum  in Rome, this space was the focal point of life in the ancient city.

Business was conducted here, social gatherings took place, religious ceremonies undertaken and much more.

From the Forum you can visit several of Pompeii's most impressive monuments, including the Basilica, the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Apollo.

Villa dei Misteri (Villa of the Mysteries)

Before exploring the town of Pompeii, I'd recommend taking a slight detour to the scavi Villa dei Misteri (excavations of the Villa of the Mysteries) located approx. 15 minutes walk from the Forum.

Following the suggested route (signposted) you'll pass Pompeii's cafe which also features some bathrooms - use this opportunity to refresh yourself.

As you follow the ancient streets you'll pass countless ancient homes and businesses, before exiting the city limits where you'll then find the road lined with tombs. In ancient Rome it was customary to bury the dead outside of the city.

When you arrive at the scavi Villa dei Misteri, you'll find yourself transported back in time; this is one of the best preserved ancient Roman villas anywhere , let alone in Pompeii.

Marvel at the original decorative flooring and recently restored frescoes and immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the surroundings.

In ancient Rome times, this would have felt like a haven away from the hustle and bustle of Pompeii!

When you leave the scavi Villa dei Misteri, take the same road back to the main part of the old town before following the signs for 'Regio V' (Region 5) - this is one of the 'newer' sections of Pompeii, in that much of it has been excavated only relatively recently.

As such, not all areas are open all the time, but if you can, be sure to visit the:

• Thermopolium - recent restoration work has brought this ancient Rome bar back to life where you can now see the frescoes that showed patrons what was on offer, not unlike a modern bar.
• House of Orion - also recently revealed and restored, this house features unique frescoes and mosaics, unseen elsewhere in Pompeii or the surviving ancient Roman world.

Theater District (Region VIII)

After the Forum, this district would have been the most lively during ancient times.

It houses two theaters, the gladiator barracks and several other important structures including the incredibly well-preserved Temple of Isis.

If time allows, enter the main theater and take a seat on the stone benches.

Imagine watching a play here, and consider for a moment you are sitting in the exact same spot that the ancient citizens of Pompeii sat nearly 2000 years ago!

Amphitheater District (Region II)

In this district, at the edges of the visitable park, you can visit the ancient city's amphitheater and the adjacent Palestra.

Gladiatorial games and other public events were held here on a regular basis, and the size of this district is a testament to Pompeii's prominence in the area.

From here you can choose to exit the park (if you're on a self-guided visit) via Piazza Immacolata and take the short walk back to the Pompeii Scavi train station .

 Antiquarium (Museum)

If you have not left Pompeii after seeing the amphitheater, return to the Forum and follow the signs for the exit.

This will take you past the Temple of Venus and you'll see steps down to the Antiquarium (museum).

This is one of the newest additions to the park and houses artefacts found in Pompeii plus two small book/gift shops - visit if you have time as the collection has been curated thoughtfully and helps to round-off any visit.

Ready to plan your trip?

Outside of Rome, the area surrounding Pompeii features one of the highest concentrations of ancient Roman sites anywhere.

If you find yourself with free time or are wanting to explore further on your day trip from Rome to Pompeii, ancient Roman history lovers should consider visiting:

• Herculaneum – like Pompeii, this town was destroyed in the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and while smaller in scale, certain elements are even better preserved than at Pompeii. You can take a guided tour which takes you from Rome to Pompeii and then Herculaneum on your trip.
• Villas of Castellamare di Stabia (Ariana & San Marco), Oplontis and Boscoreale – these four ancient homes offer an insight into how the people of this area lived and worked 2000 years ago, from winemakers through to members of the imperial family.
• Capua - this now humble town was once ancient Rome's regional capital of this area (before Naples came to prominence), connected directly to Rome via the famous Via Appia . It was here that Spartacus started his infamous revolt – you can even visit where he trained as a gladiator!
• Phlegraean Fields (Campi Flegrei)  – this vast zone just outside of Naples is home to several important sites including Pozzuoli (featuring a well-preserved amphitheater), Baiae (once the Las Vegas of ancient Rome) and Cumae (where an Oracle resided).
• Sorrento – famous now as the birthplace of limoncello, Sorrento was originally an ancient Roman settlement featuring a palace owned by the son of Agrippa, the right-hand man of emperor Augustus .
• Capri island – here Rome’s second emperor, Tiberius, had his summer palace – Villa Jovis. Situated on one of the island's highest points, you’ll struggle to find a better view of the Bay of Naples.
• Positano – situated under the town’s main church (Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta) you’ll find one of the best-preserved ancient Roman villas in existence.

Moving beyond ancient Rome, there is no shortage of other things to do and places to visit near Pompeii:

• Naples – As the regional capital of Campania and a major Italian city since the middle ages, Naples is a history and culture hub. Naples is also famous for its cuisine – it was here that the pizza was invented after all! If you want to really explore Campania, Naples is a great base - staying in an apartment gives you maximum flexibility for your travels!
• Caserta – The Royal Palace of Caserta was the largest royal residence in Italy, and one of the biggest in Europe. Modeled on Versailles Palace outside of Paris, it was here that the kings of the Two Sicilys, and for a brief period, the King of Italy displayed their wealth and power.

• Ischia – Famous for its natural springs, if you are looking for a peaceful break in paradise-like settings, book a ferry from Naples and head to the island of Ischia for a magical day trip!
• Procida – The smallest of the islands in the Bay of Naples, Procida was selected as the 2022 European Capital of Culture and you’ll struggle to find anywhere more picture-perfect in the world.
• The Amalfi Coast – world-renowned for timeless views and picturesque cliff-side towns, this slice of heaven is within easy reach of Pompeii.

If you are looking to explore Campania beyond Pompeii, don't forget to consider getting yourself a Campania ArteCard – just like the Roma Pass  in Rome, it enables access to two sites without extra cost, and discounts to dozens of sites after your two 'free' visits.

Inside Pompeii site you'll find a cafe/bistro (with air conditioning - a blessing if visiting in the summer!) but this can get very busy.

As such, I'd recommend bringing your own lunch/snacks and drinks for while you are in the archaeological park.

If you are taking the high speed train from Rome, you'll find plenty of great options in Naples Centrale station in the 'Foodcourt' which you can grab when changing lines.

Immediately outside the entrances to Pompeii are several bars - the food at these places is not the best (but will do if you're in a pinch) but they are useful for grabbing something to drink on your way in or out of the park.

Want to save this to Pinterest? Pin it here!

Romewise's Top Travel Resources

Ready to book your trip to Rome? Take a look at these helpful links to companies we use and trust:

• Keep your travel spending simple with the Wise card, which removes all the worry about exchange rates and high transaction fees all over the world
• Search for and book your perfect accommodation
• Our complete guide to what to pack for Rome
• The number one travel accessory, a multi-point travel adapter and voltage converter  
• Browse a huge range of tours in Rome and beyond
• Experience unique tours and special access to Rome's most popular sights  
• Protect yourself with comprehensive travel insurance

Within this post there are some affiliate links for products and services. For more details about our affiliate policy click here .

Get your 100%  free  Rome trip planner now!

Simply sign-up today for our free newsletter and get the Romewise Quick Start guide to Rome:

We are committed to respecting your data. Click for our Privacy Policy .

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

Please come over to the private Romewise Facebook group and join in the conversation.

You will often find me there, happy to answer your questions / comments!

You will also meet other Rome lovers and experts, too.

What are you waiting for?

Come join in the fun !

Read here about our sponsorship policy

Top attractions and tours

• Colosseum - Don't miss visiting Rome's most iconic monument
• Vatican Museums - This is where the Sistine Chapel is
• Pantheon - Book ahead and skip the line
• Galleria Borghese - You'll need to book ahead for one of Rome's best museums
• Castel Sant'Angelo - See Rome's history through its architecture
• Rome City Pass - A great way to make your Rome visits easier

New to Romewise? Start Here

Get the most out of Romewise

Coming To Rome?

Weather in Rome

Accommodation

Already in Rome?

Things to Do

MORE CITYWISE WEBSITES:

Florencewise

Atlantawise

Citywise LLC

Home    |    About Me     |    STORE     |    Privacy Policy    |    Legal Disclaimer    |    Affiliate Disclosure    |   Contact Me

Copyright © 2009-2024 by Elyssa Bernard, Romewise.com | All Rights Reserved.

Full Day Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip from Rome with Lunch

Our Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Day Trip takes you from Rome to this UNESCO World Heritage site in one day. You’ll get Skip-the-Line access and will explore the city where time stopped in 79AD and also the opportunity to hike to the crater of Mt. Vesuvius or stroll the stressts and beaches of Positano.

Our esteemed tour introduces a new dimension to your experience with an inclusive lunch at an authentic Italian restaurant, offering picturesque views of the Bay of Naples. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes further with two distinct hiking options— an exhilarating ascent up Mount Vesuvius or a naturalistic walking tour led by a seasoned geologist, revealing the geological wonders of the Pompeii area. This diverse range of experiences ensures that travelers of all preferences can tailor their adventure to suit their individual tastes.

• Transport to Pompeii and back in a comfortable, climate-controlled bus.
• Skip-the-line entry to the ruins of Pompeii with an  Official, licensed, English-speaking guide in Pompeii.
• Hike to the top of Mt. Vesuvius Volcano overlooking the Bay of Naples (from April to early-November) or enjoy free time in the picturesque town of Positano (from early-November to March). Starting March 31, you can also choose from a naturalistic walking tour led by an expert geologist to explore the captivating Mt. Vesuvius area.
• Relish an all-inclusive lunch at a Naples bay-view restaurant, featuring a traditional pizza, appetizer, and dessert.

Pompeii & Vesuvius Tour from Rome

What's included.

• Return transport from Rome in a private, climate-controlled bus
• Official, licensed, English-speaking guide in Pompeii
• 3-course lunch at authentic Naples Restaurant
• Hike atop Mt. Vesuvius (If Option Selected)
• Scenic Walking Tour of Mt. Vesuvius area with Geologist (If Option Selected)
• English-speaking Tour Leader on hand at all times
• Pompeii entrance and reservation fees
• Visit to Positano  (from early-November to March)
• Entrance ticket to Mt. Vesuvius (from April to early-November)

Sites Visited

• Ruins of Pompeii
• Town of Positano  (from early-November to March)
• Mt. Vesuvius Volcano and "Great Crater" (from April to early-November)
• Napoletan Restaurant

The ancient city of Pompeii is one of the most popular attractions on any trip to Italy. However, it can be difficult to manage without transport. We suggest you take our comfortable air-conditioned coach down the Highway of the Sun to discover this acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Skip the Lines into Ancient Pompeii

Your tour will begin by joining your English-speaking tour leader in Rome. They will travel with you through the region of Campania which they know so well, and they will also deal with the lines and entrance tickets for you.

After skipping the lines you’ll enter the archaeological zone with an official Pompeii tour guide to discover what has been uncovered from underneath the 4 meters of rubble and ash that rained down on this spot in 79AD. This is an experience far removed from the dry history of a museum as you will be able to walk through the preserved rooms, shops and monuments that are just as they were since the eruption.

Authentic Lunch with views of Naples

Our tour elevates your experience with an all-inclusive lunch at an authentic Italian restaurant, featuring panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Delight in a traditional meal comprising of pizza, an appetizer, and dessert, providing a genuine taste of Italian cuisine. Take advantage of this opportunity to recharge for the upcoming journey to Mt. Vesuvius.

Look down from Mt Vesuvius or Explore with a Geologist

From April to early-November you will have the rare opportunity to climb to the top of one of the deadliest volcanoes in Europe. Your coach will take you most of the way up Mt. Vesuvius

and the remaining hike is enjoyable and worth it to see the steaming calderas and the view of the landscape below with Sorrento and Capri set in the sea like jewels on a crown.

Alternatively, opt for our second hiking option starting March 31, 2024, guided by a knowledgeable geologist. This informative exploration caters to those interested in geology or seeking a more moderate hike on Vesuvius.

Free time in the town of Positano

From early-November to March instead of visiting Mt. Vesuvius, after exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, your bus will take you to the charming and bubbly town of Positano. Positano offers a contrast to Rome: you can stroll along the picturesque streets, relax in its famous beach, or just shop around the local shops – you make your own itinerary!

No matter what time of the year you visit Italy, don’t let the distance stop you from taking a trip to the haunting city of Pompeii.

Important Notes

• From early November to March the Vesuvius isn't accessible and it is replaced with Positano. Also during summer months in rare cases of inclement weather or strikes, the crater of Vesuvius may be closed to visitors, therefore, if this is the case, it is replaced with a visit to Positano where you will get free time to explore the city.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

Thousands of 5-Star Reviews

Tripadvisor, know before you go, meeting point.

Piazza del Popolo - Open in Google Maps

• Please be advised that in the case of events beyond our control, we may need to adjust our itinerary to ensure the safety, quality, and satisfaction of your travel experience.
• While our day trips are typically of a fixed duration, external factors may occasionally extend tour times slightly. We appreciate your understanding and planning as we strive to provide you with the best possible experience.

Yes, you can. However, you will be responsible for organising your own transport back to Naples.

A booking cannot be amended with less than 24 hours notice. Amendments made before this window are possible, but may incur a charge. Any bookings made within the 24 hour window are final and cannot be amended or subject to compensation.   Please note that this amendment policy does not apply to the Colosseum Underground Tour  and the  Colosseum by Night Tour that starts at 19:30 or later. These 2 tours cannot be amended from the time of the purchase, due to the fact that the Colosseum Underground entry tickets must be purchased using the full name of each passenger and cannot be modified or canceled.

We strongly advise against arriving at the meeting point without a booking as we cannot guarantee that there will be space left on the tour. Our guides are unable to accept payment for tours so any bookings made on the spot will still need to be processed over the phone with payment by credit card.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

You Might Also Like...

Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter's Basilica Tour

Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

The Original Crypts and Catacombs Tour

Get to know dark rome.

A Dark Rome tour is the product of meticulous research, detailed planning, and a passion for providing customers with travel experiences they will cherish forever.

With Dark Rome it's not just facts, our passionate guides tell you the stories that bring the sights to life.

• All of our guides are experts in their field
• We only hire fluent English-speakers so nothing is ever lost in translation
• We focus on the little details and anecdotes that make Dark Rome so special

Rome to Pompeii Day Trip: A Complete How-To Guide

Planning a Rome to Pompeii day trip? You’re a history-loving traveler after my own heart!

Spending time in Rome is always a great idea. But to learn everything about Ancient Rome, you’ll need to get outside the historical walls of the Urbe (“the city”, in Latin) and explore towns and areas in other parts of Italy.

Unmissable is a visit to the archaeological site of Pompeii. With a day trip from Rome to Pompeii, you can walk and linger through the streets, the domus (“houses”), and the gardens to relive people living in Roman times once felt.

To immerse yourself in the wonder and history of Pompeii’s ruins, you can either plan a Pompeii trip yourself or join an organized tour.

In this article, you’ll learn how to plan a DIY day trip to Pompeii, see a comparison of what an organized tour from Rome to Pompeii offers, plus get practical tips and advice to ensure your visit is a success.

How to Plan a Rome to Pompeii Day Trip

Pompeii is located in Campania, 14 miles south of Naples. Therefore, making a day trip to Pompeii from Rome is quite simple: the two cities are about 150 miles apart and well connected.

The ancient city of Pompeii is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

The site is exceptional! Pompeii was buried by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, causing its tragic end. However, the remains of the city are well-preserved thanks to the volcanic ash that covered everything on that fateful day, saving it from the ruins of time.

As you plan a trip to Pompeii from Rome, you’ll have to think about several things: how to get to Pompeii from Rome; if you want to include a visit to other places alongside Pompeii; and many hours you want to spend in Pompeii. Consider that the archeological site is enormous, and its visit can last from a couple of hours to 6 hours depending on your interests.

Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii: Quick Glance Best Options

So, what’s the best way to plan an extraordinary pompeii experience.

Certainly, the easiest way to take a day trip from Rome to Pompeii is to join an organized Pompeii tour . It’s an all-in-one solution that manages the logistics and includes an English-speaking tour leader so can simply enjoy the experience.

There are also other Rome to Pompeii tours that incorporate additional stops, like along the Amalfi Coast or Mount Vesuvius , so you get to experience a bit more of southern Italy.

However, opting for a DIY day tour from Rome to Pompeii can also be fantastic. You first need to consider the different options to get to Pompeii. Train, bus, or car are possible to make your way out of Rome to explore incredible Pompeii.

Then, you’ll need to decide how to tour the site. I recommend at least using an audio guide , but even better is meeting a pre-booked archaeologist guide when you arrive at Pompeii. Pompeii is a huge site at nearly 170 acres! Plus, the site has very little signage so it’s hard to know the significance of what you’re seeing.

And while planning your own Rome to Pompeii day trip comes with managing all the logistics, you also have the freedom and flexibility to spend the day how you choose. For example, perhaps you’d like a morning at Pompeii and an afternoon in Naples.

Whether you prefer a DIY day tour from Rome to Pompeii or you prefer an organized tour to Pompeii from Rome, everything you need to know to plan each detail is below.

How to Get from Rome to Pompeii by Train

I’ve explained all the need-to-know information about the transportation you can take to Pompeii so that you can make the best decision.

Plan on the trains from Rome to Pompeii to take about 2 hours in total. There are 2 steps. I’ve explained both below.

The first step of this journey is to take the train from Rome to Napoli (Naples) Centrale.

Leaving from Roma Termini station, Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca or Frecciargento, Italo, Intercity, and Regionale offer variable routes between 70 minutes and 4 hours, depending on the number of changes made and/or if you opt for the fast train.

The fastest and easiest route you can choose to reach Pompeii from Rome Termini Station is on a high-speed, nonstop Frecciarossa or Italo train, getting off at Napoli Centrale (Naples Central Station). These direct trains will generally take between 70-75 minutes. Then, from there, you’ll take the connection for Pompeii. (More on this below.)

Taking the Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed train will help you save precious hours that you can spend visiting Pompeii or other points in the south of Italy. Train tickets start around 20-25€ (one way) if reserved well in advance . Otherwise, the train ticket might cost up to 60€ (one way).

Intercity is, with Regionale, the cheapest option (15-25€ one way), but it will also take longer (around 3 1/2 hours) and include stops. In my opinion, this defeats the purpose of a full-day trip to Pompeii and the surrounding area. However, maybe it makes sense for budget travelers on the return journey who don’t mind taking these regional trains for a late arrival back to Rome.

You can also leave from Roma Tiburtina station . You’ll arrive in Pompeii in approximately the same amount of time that it will take if the train left from Roma Termini.

The fastest route to Napoli Centrale is offered by Italo and Frecciarossa, which takes you to Napoli Centrale in about 90 minutes. Tickets start at 22€ one way and go up from there depending on how far in advance you booked and the train’s departure time.

ProTip: I recommend using Omio to book your train tickets . The website is simple to use and streamlines the booking process. Be sure to download the Omio app and store your bookings there. Even with no internet connection, the train conductor will be able to scan your ticket. I always store my tickets in the Omio app and it’s been a seamless way to travel by train in Italy.

The second step of this journey is to take the connecting train from Napoli Centrale to Pompeii Scavi .

Once you arrive in Naples, you need to take another train connecting you from Naples to Pompeii.

The Circumvesuviana Railway line you need goes from Napoli to Sorrento and will stop at Pompeii Scavi-Villa di Misteri in about 35 minutes.

From Naples Centrale Station, head downstairs and follow the signs for the Circumvesuviana trains . It’s also called the Piazza Garibaldi Station. To be clear, this is exactly where you got off the train from Rome at Napoli Centrale, it’s just downstairs followed by a little walk underground.

There’s no need to pre-book this ticket, as this is more of a local train making stops between Naples and Sorrento. The price of the train ticket is 3.20€ (one way). Trains depart about every 30 minutes.

Take this train from the Piazza Garibaldi station in Naples (downstairs from Napoli Centrale) and get off at the Pompeii Scavi stop. The only train that goes to the Pompeii Scavi stop is the one that has Sorrento as the final stop.

The main entrance to Pompeii (Scavi di Pompeii) is across the street to the right. But just follow the crowds!

To return to Rome, simply follow these steps in reverse. You’ll get off at Napoli Garibaldi from the Circumvesuviana train and head upstairs to Napoli Centrale for the high-speed trains to Rome.

Going Back to Rome from Pompeii

You’ll retrace your steps back to the Circumvesuviana train from Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri stop. Get off at Napoli Porta Garibaldi. Go upstairs back to the Naples train station for trains back to Rome. High-speed trains depart Naples until 8:30 pm.

How to Take the Bus from Rome to Pompeii

If you don’t want to bother with train transfers, you might consider catching a bus to Pompeii from Rome.

Numerous companies offer daily routes from Rome to Pompeii. Flixbus is surely the most budget-friendly, departing from Roma Tiburtina. The ride is about three hours long, and the bus ticket cost is 20€ if reserved in advance.

Flixbus is a no-frills bus line. You’re paying simply for the transportation.

Another long-distance bus company is Marozzi VT , which also departs from Roma Tiburtina. Again, you should reserve your seat in advance to get lower prices. Moreover, consider that in the summer tickets sell out fast, so plan your bus ride on time.

Similarly, remember, you’re only paying for the transportation. You still need to pay the Pompeii entrance fee or book a guided tour of Pompeii.

Both Flixbus and Marozzi buses can be searched and booked on Omio .

You can also choose to take a shuttle bus from Rome to Pompeii . This option is usually more expensive, but it typically includes a Pompeii entry ticket. It’s also handy because the departure points are around the main sites in Rome, like the Colosseum.

How to Get to Pompeii by Car

If you want the maximum freedom to explore Pompeii, renting a car (or a motorbike) is an option. Car rental is always a good idea if you don’t mind driving. Pompeii is located 150 miles south of Rome, and the drive will last for around 2 1/2 hours.

The southbound drive between the two cities is straightforward along the E45 autostrada (toll motorway) also known as the “Highway of the Sun.” Tolls in Italy are paid as you drive, and the cost is based on the distance traveled: in the case of Rome to Pompeii, the average cost is 15€ (depending on where you enter the autostrada and where you leave it).

You simply take a ticket when getting on the autostrada. Then, when you exit, there are toll booths to reinsert your ticket to assess the fee. Tolls can be paid in cash or with a credit card so the process is convenient.

However, there are several additional things to consider before taking a car to Pompeii. First, as you might imagine, the traffic can get heavy when leaving Rome and around Naples, thus the drive can easily become longer than 2 1/2 hours.

Secondly, Italy also has restricted traffic zones, or Zona Traffico Limitato (ZTL), which affects how closely you can get to the site anyway, as these zones are usually put in place to protect historical locations and Centro Storico areas.

Lastly, parking can be a real nightmare, especially in the summer when archaeological sites such as Pompeii are packed with tourists. There are several parking areas around Pompeii, and the average cost is 1.50€ per hour.

ProTip: If you do decide to drive to Pompeii (or have plans to rent a car at any point in Italy), be sure to get an International Driver’s License before leaving home. In the U.S, AAA can set you up with one. While definitely hit or miss, if you get pulled over and the officer decides to ask for it, the fines are high for not having one. I have mine for every trip I take to Italy and internationally.

DIY Day Tour from Rome to Pompeii

After deciding how to get to Pompeii, it is beyond important to reserve Pompeii entry tickets in advance to not waste precious time in long lines.

The archaeological park of Pompeii sees 2.5 million visitors every year. It’s one of the most popular sites to visit in all of Italy. And during the summer months and other peak times, ticket lines are long.

From April 1st to October 31st, the Pompeii ruins are open from 9 AM – 7 PM, with the last entrance at 5:30 PM.

From November 1st to March 31st, the last allowed entrance is at 3:30 PM, and the site closes at 5 PM.

On the first Sunday of every month, the ticket to enter Pompeii is free. However, you must reserve the free ticket well in advance. In fact, you might find the ticket office closed if the number of Pompeii tickets sold exceeds 15,000 (it is done to preserve the site and avoid dangerous overcrowding).

Do I Need to Do a Pompeii Tour?

Simply put, I recommend it. The ruins of Pompeii span 163 acres. On top of that, there arean’t as many signs explaining what you are seeing to put the site in context as you might think for such a world-famous sight.

Unless you are a historian yourself, amateur or otherwise, with deep knowledge of Pompeii, you risk walking through the ruins without really getting the full value of the experience.

So, even better than advance entry tickets (and by far the better DIY scenario) is visiting Pompeii with a pre-booked archaeological tour guide .

Otherwise, you’ll likely wander randomly through the site and miss some of the most beautiful houses, as well as important context. With many notable landmarks within the site not marked, you’ll need some sort of information to fully appreciate what you are seeing.

You will find some guides outside Pompeii offering their services but you’ll be rolling the dice hoping to get an expert guide versus one who is not. If you do go with a guide once you arrive, be sure to check their credentials. They should be certified by the region of Campania.

Honestly, though, you’ve come all this way. Why risk a sub-par experience? If you want to go with a guide, book one in advance.

If going with a guide is just not in your budget, there are also entry tickets like this one that include an optional audio guide. These are better than visiting the site with nothing, however, they pale in comparison to what a trained local guide can offer as far as historical context.

ProTip: Exploring Pompeii can be overwhelming. The archeological site is huge, and although the path is paved, there are many stones and even uneven slabs. Moreover, except for some areas, the streets are almost exclusively in the sun. Therefore, to be prepared at your best, wear comfortable shoes and a sunhat , and pack a reusable water bottle so you have water to drink.

Other Places to Visit Near Pompeii

With the freedom of traveling independently comes the ability to explore the region as you wish. Now, in only a day trip from Rome, it’s impossible to see everything. But after a few hours at Pompeii, there’s no need to rush back to Rome.

Explore Naples

You could make an early start to spend the morning at Pompeii. Then, take the Circumvesuviana train back to Napoli Garibaldi and spend the afternoon eating all the pizza your body will allow(!) and discovering Naples.

The Duomo and the Piazza del Plebiscito are must-sees in Naples. You could also join a local guide to explore places like the Catacombs of San Gennaro or the city’s history by touring the Naples Underground .

Visit Sorrento

The Circumvesuviana train you used to reach Pompeii continues on to Sorrento. It’s the last stop on that train line. You could buy a ticket to continue from Pompeii Scavi to Sorrento and be there in about 30 minutes. (Remember to validate your ticket.)

When you get to Sorrento, breathe in the salty air and enjoy the views looking out over the Gulf of Naples. Piazza Tasso is the main square and from there you can get lost in the town’s narrow streets. Depending on how much time you have, you could head to the harbor at Marina Grande for a fresh seafood lunch.

Limoncello is to Sorrento what Naples is to pizza and Liguria is to pesto. Be sure to taste some!

ProTip: If you drove to Pompeii, I recommend leaving your car parked in the lot and continuing on to Sorrento by train. There’s no free parking in Sorrento and, in general, finding a place to park can be a headache like in the Cinque Terre and Portovenere area further north. If you visit Naples instead, look for an ANM parking lot near Piazza Garibaldi & the train station. Beware of ZTLs (traffic limitation zones)!

Guided Day Trips to Pompeii from Rome

If you want to save time and avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation, the best way is to rely on a guided Rome to Pompeii tour . Not to mention expert archaeologist guides can help you get the most from your visit by sharing stories and information that might not be obvious by just looking at the site.

The prices of organized tours vary depending on factors like how far in advance you reserve your spot; how many other people will be on tour; if there is a personalized option for pick up and drop off; and if on the way to Pompeii or back to Rome the bus makes stops at other locations (such as Sorrento, in the Amalfi Coast) to make your experience even more memorable.

Guided tours try to maximize your time so expect a full day to accommodate for travel and sightseeing time.

Below are some fantastic Rome day trips to Pompeii for you to consider.

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Full-Day Trip From Rome

This Pompeii & Vesuvius tour combines history and the opportunity to climb Mt. Vesuvius for a full day of outdoor fun exploring the ruins of Pompeii and the active volcano responsible for the city’s demise. The group is small-ish (of around 25 people), and the transfer to Pompeii will be on an air-conditioned coach

Once you’ve arrived in Pompeii, the archaeologist guide will walk you through the main sights. After, the bus will drive up the slope of Mt. Vesuvius. Following a short hike, you’ll arrive at the crater of the volcano with views of Capri, Sorrento, and the Bay of Naples.

Important to know: The option to climb Mt. Vesuvius is available from April to mid-November. If you visit from mid-November to March, you’ll instead have free time to explore Naples by yourself before traveling back to Rome.

From Rome: Pompeii, Almafi Coast, & Positano Day Trip

If you’re hoping to combine a visit to Pompeii with some time at the Amalfi Coast, there are 2 options to consider.

This tour by City Wonders and this tour by Walks of Italy both offer air-conditioned bus travel to and from Rome. The tours include a skip-the-line Pompeii admission ticket and an expert local guide to take you through the Pompeii ruins.

Afterward, you’ll spend free time in Positano (or during the winter months in Amalfi or Sorrento where more will be open).

Both companies are well-reviewed and offer fantastic tours to Pompeii from Rome. Walks of Italy is recommended by Rick Steves and the New York Times. I personally have done more than one of their “walks” and have always had a super knowledgeable guide.

Full-Day Pompeii Ruins Tour from Rome

This more leisurely Pompeii tour focuses on the ruins themselves. This full day tour offers you pick-up service at centrally located hotels, an authentic Neapolitan pizza for lunch (with one drink included), and, if chosen at the time of booking, a certified guide that will walk you through the streets of Pompeii. The trip there and back to Rome will lead you through the Roman countryside and the famous Castelli Romani.

Pompeii Day Trip with Wine Tasting and Lunch

This Pompeii tour includes lunch and a wine tasting . Unlike the other full day tours from Rome to Pompeii recommended above which use private buses, the transport for this tour is the Trenitalia Freccia train, which you will board at Roma Termini. The train ticket is included in the final price of the tour.

Once in Naples, you will be met by the tour leader and use a shuttle bus to move around the region. After seeing Pompeii, your group will head to a nearby vineyard to enjoy a wine tasting experience and a three-course lunch with local specialties.

This tour also includes skip-the-line tickets to Pompeii and an archaeological guide to tour the ruins. At the end of the day, the shuttle returns you to Napoli Centrale where you take the high-speed train back to Rome. This tour tends to be a small group tour, making it feel more personal than larger group tours.

Doing a Rome to Pompeii day trip with an organized tour is a great stress-free way to enjoy your trip to Italy.

Rome Day Trips to Pompeii: FAQs

Is a day trip from rome to pompeii worth it.

Pompeii is one of the most incredible historic sights anywhere in the world. If you have the time to spare while in Rome, it’s more than worth planning a Pompeii day trip! It’s an absolutely unforgettable experience.

What is the best way to travel from Rome to Pompeii?

The most hassle-free way to go from Rome to Pompeii is by going on an organized day trip. You can focus solely on enjoying this incredible historic sight plus, potentially, see other points of interest in southern Italy like Mount Vesuvius or the Amalfi coast. If you’re going on your own, the trains from Rome to Pompeii are straightforward and run frequently throughout the day.

How long should you spend at Pompeii?

The Pompeii ruins cover an enormous area. You’ll want to spend at least 2 hours visiting. However, it’s easy to spend 3-6 hours there depending on how deeply you want to explore the site.

Planning a Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii is simply marvelous, and a day trip from Rome to explore the ancient ruins at the base of Mount Vesuvius is a great addition to your time in Italy.

Whether you take the train from Rome to Pompeii or you join one of the many Pompeii day trips from Rome, both are great options. If you travel independently, take my advice and pre-arrange an expert guide ! It’s so worth it!

Once you choose the best option for yourself and book your trip, all that’s left to do is enjoy visiting an unforgettable city forever suspended in time.

So, what are your questions about planning a Rome to Pompeii day trip?

Like this post? Please share on social media!

Related Posts

Why You Should Drive the Icefields Parkway + Trip Planning Tips

3 Reasons to Visit Banff National Park Immediately

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Rome to Pompeii Day Trip: How to Plan the Perfect Trip

• David Angel

Planning a Rome to Pompei day trip? How do you go about it? Will you have enough time to accomplish a Pompeii day trip from Rome? Is it better to travel by yourself on the train from Rome to Pompeii, or is it easier to book a Rome to Pompeii tour?

We’ll answer all these questions and more in our guide to planning a Rome to Pompeii day trip.

The good news is that a Rome Pompeii day trip is perfectly feasible, whether you’re travelling by yourselves or on a Rome to Pompeii day tour. Pompeii is one of the easier day trips from Rome, with the train journey taking less than two hours each way.  

The likelihood is that you’ll have enough time to explore at least one more destination, albeit for a few hours. So if you’re travelling that far, how to make the best use of your time?

There is also the option to tour Pompeii from Rome, and most options include a second destination. There are several tours from Rome to Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, and other day tours from Rome include brief visits to Naples and the Roman town of Herculaneum

Table of Contents

Rome to Pompeii Day trip – the History of Pompeii

Pompeii is one of the most evocative ancient Roman sites. It was a small, workaday provincial Roman town until the volcano nearby, Mount Vesuvius, erupted in AD 79.

The remaining inhabitants were cooked by searing hot gases pouring from the mountain in a fatal pyroclastic flow. The town was frozen in time, preserved under a layer of volcanic ash and hidden from the world for almost 1,700 years.

It was partly discovered in the late 16 th century, then promptly forgotten about. Eventually, in 1748, excavations began in earnest.

Pompeii is one of the most compelling Roman sites in the world, and is undoubtedly one of the best day trips from Rome. It’s a great complement to a visit to the Italian and former Imperial capital, giving a fascinating insight into daily Roman provincial life.

See Also : What Is Italy Famous For?

W here is Pompeii ?

Pompeii is 26 km (16 miles) to the south-east of the southern Italian city of Naples (Napoli in Italian). It’s close to the coast of the Bay of Naples, and the ruins are next to the Circumvesuviana railway station at Pompei Scavi.

How far is Pompeii from Rome ?

The distance from Rome to Pompeii is 250 km, or around 150 miles.

How to get from Rome to Pompeii

There is no direct Rome to Pompeii train. Instead, you catch a train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale, and change there for Pompeii.

Trains from Rome to Naples depart regularly – often several per hour. The most frequent option is the Frecce (‘Arrow’) service which takes a little over an hour. This is the most expensive option at €29.90 one way, plus The InterCity is less frequent and takes two hours and costs €22. The Regionale option also exists, but takes around 3 hours.

When you arrive at Napoli Centrale, head for the station concourse, then turn left near the exit. Follow the sign for the Circumvesuviana line – this is the Naples to Pompeii train. It departs every thirty minutes, and takes just over half an hour. You’ll need to alight at Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station, which is a short walk from the entrance to the Pompeii site.

There are also buses from Naples to Pompeii, but the train option is so easy that it’s pointless trying to go by bus. It’s also far more time-consuming.

Some would also consider driving from Rome to Pompeii by car. Putting it succinctly, we wouldn’t.  It’s far too much hassle at either end. Public transport around Pompeii is very good: you don’t need to drive there.

There is no direct bus from Rome to Pompeii on the public transport network. However, on some tours Rome to Pompeii run coaches from pick-up points around Rome direct to the site.

Your Pompeii visit – How long do you need there ?

This will depend on your interests and whatever else you have planned in your Pompeii day trip itinerary. I recommend a minimum of two hours to explore the site.

My friend and I took four hours, and only curtailed our visit out of necessity – it was closing time. We were both avidly interested, and could have stayed considerably longer.

Two hours in Pompeii would definitely give you a good general overview, and a feel for the layout of the town, the streets and houses. Three hours would give you time to walk the outer reaches of the ruined town, including the amphitheatre.

W hat else can you see on a Rome to Pompei trip ?

This depends on the time you have available, your interests and whether you intend to travel using public transport or take one of the Pompeii tours from Rome.

We’ll run through each of the options below, starting with ones you could feasibly accomplish by yourselves. We’ll then suggest options for tours of Pompeii which include additional destinations in the area.

1. Herculaneum

Herculaneum was another city destroyed by the same eruption of Vesuvius as Pompeii. The poor inhabitants left in the city suffered a horrendous fate, instantly cooked by gases as hot as 500°C.

Herculaneum was a more prosperous city, with wealthier citizens and larger properties than those of Pompeii.

Much of the city has been built over with modern Ercolano hiding its many secrets. Only a small part of the ancient city remains, but what is still there is fascinating. It’s easy to reach: it’s on the Circumvesuviana line a few stops before Pompeii. The station at which you need to alight is Ercolano Scavi.  

You could comfortably spend 2-3 hours at both Pompeii and Herculaneum, stopping for lunch close to either.

If you prefer to have your transport all taken care of, there are also Pompeii and Herculaneum tours from Rome to consider.

2. Vesuvius

It’s also possible to climb Vesuvius, the volcano that wrought all this destruction on the two cities below.

It’s easy enough to do independently. The Vesuvio Express bus departs from Ercolano Scavi every 40 minutes. The €20 ticket includes the €10 entry to the Vesuvius National Park. The bus drops you at the top of the road up the mountain, around 30 minutes short of the summit. You have 90 minutes to climb to the summit crater, explore it then walk back down.

Alternatively, you can book yourself onto a Pompeii and Vesuvius tour from Rome.  Bear in mind that you’ll still have to do the half-hour summit hike.

See Also: 33 Famous Landmarks In Italy

Rome to Naples is one of the more obvious Rome day trips, with the train between the two taking barely an hour. A day trip from Rome to Naples and Pompeii doesn’t leave much time to explore one of Italy’s great cities. However, if you have a few hours there, you can get through some of the best things to do in Naples.

You emerge from Napoli Centrale onto Piazza Garibaldi, which is not the best introduction to a city you will have. It’s a traffic-clogged, horn-honking hullabaloo, but once you’ve crossed it, you’ll be into the heart of ancient Naples.

This is the beginning of Spaccanapoli, a series of streets running 2 kilometres across the heart of the city in an arrow-straight line. The name translates as ‘splits Naples’, but it’s as much a route through the heart and soul of it.

Spaccanapoli starts in the west at Via Forcella, Via Vicaria Vecchia, continuing east to Piazza Gesù Nuovo. It passes close to some of the finest churches in Naples, including the Duomo, home to the cult and miracle of San Gennaro . Here, the blood of the patron saint of Naples miraculously, mysteriously liquefies three times a year.

One of the most amazing Naples sights is a 300 metre walk beyond the Duomo. The Museo Cappella Sansevero is a chapel with some of the most astonishing funerary sculptures you could ever see. Some of the carved marble figures are shrouded, an incredible sight.

If you’re a lover of one of Italy’s most famous dishes, I’d strongly recommend trying some Naples pizza during your visit. Naples is the home of pizza, and there are many pizzeria all over the city.

One of the oldest is Da Michele , on Via Sersale, a side street between Spaccanapoli and busy Corso Umberto I. It’s a wonderful place serving just two kinds of pizza – marinara and Margherita (tomato, mozzarella and basil).

The best guarantee of getting a seat is turning up when the locals are less likely to be eating, so between 4-5pm, ideally. Either pizza and a drink will cost you a meagre €7-8. There’s also another excellent Naples pizzeria across the street at Trianon da Ciro, which has a much wider choice.

It’s a 10-15-minute walk back from there to Napoli Centrale.

Alternatively, you can book a Rome to Naples tour which includes Pompeii. These tend to take you around on a bus, giving you the best scenic overviews of this compelling city.

4. Amalfi Coas t

It’s also possible to take a day trip from Rome to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe . However, it’s a very long slog by public transport.

You can visit Pompeii early in the day, then catch the Circumvesuviana to Sorrento, from which you catch a bus to the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento to Positano takes around 50 minutes one way.

That makes it four journeys plus waiting time to get to Positano from Rome, and three back. You may also have to factor in an additional journey at the beginning and end of the day to get to Roma Termini station. Nine journeys in one day is a lot.

This makes a Rome to Amalfi Coast tour all the more appealing.  Some itineraries include Pompeii, a drive along the Amalfi Coast and some free time in Positano and Amalfi.

Rome To Pompeii Day Trip – Final Words

I hope you’ve found this guide to planning a Rome to Pompeii day trip helpful and informative.

I have written many more articles on Italy. For some general articles on the country, ideal for the armchair traveller, see my guides to the most beautiful squares in Italy and the 50 best landmarks in Italy .

If Italian food is your inspiration, then look no further than my Italy food tour guide. This culinary tour of Italy takes you from the Veneto in the north to Sicily in the south. And I show you the best dishes from each region along the way.

If you’re visiting southern Italy, then check out my guide to the San Gennaro Naples festival. It’s one of the most curious Roman Catholic miracles, a Roman Catholic saint’s blood liquefying three times a year on specific dates.

And don’t miss my guide to Ortigia Sicily . The ancient island part of Siracusa is breathtaking, one of the most beautiful and underrated cities in Europe.

I have also written extensively on northern Italy, particularly Venice. To get a flavour of the city, check out my 17 Photos of Venice introduction and my guide to the Grand Canal Venice , the most beautiful street in Europe.

Discover even more in my guides to Venice landmarks , Churches in Venice and Venice off the beaten path .

Many regard Bologna as the food capital of Italy. It’s an essential stop on any food-themed travel in Italy, worth at least a couple of days of your time. Check out my guide to the best things to do in Bologna for lots more information.

If you stay in Bologna, then take a look at my guide to the best day trips from Bologna . This includes other cities in the Emilia-Romagna region (including Parma) and to the north. Take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Padua , a stunning city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

If you’re heading south from Bologna, then take a look at my guides to the best places to stay in Tuscany and Tuscany hidden gems .

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

• Shop Now! 🚚 Free Shipping on all orders in Europe, UK, Canada & US!
• 🇮🇹 Explore Italy on Foot

From Rome to Pompeii: An Easy Guide for an Epic Day Trip

For those who are basking in the glory of Rome’s ancient wonders and wish to expand their historical escapades, a trip to Pompeii is the way to go. Visiting the ruins of Pompeii will allow you to step back in time and witness the daily life of an ancient Roman city preserved by volcanic ash. In this guide, we’ll explain how to get to Pompeii from Rome effortlessly and efficiently. To maximize your travel experience, consider checking out this day trip to Pompeii from Rome .

Planning Your Journey

Before you set off, planning is essential. The easiest way to reach Pompeii from Rome is by train. You’ll be starting your journey at Roma Termini, Rome’s main train station. Roma Termini is a hub of activity, with trains leaving frequently towards various destinations. It’s advisable to check the Trenitalia website or visit the station ahead of time to purchase tickets and confirm the train schedule.

Once you’ve secured your tickets, you’ll be boarding a Frecciarossa train, renowned for its speed and comfort. This train will take you to Napoli Afragola, a journey that lasts approximately 56 minutes. During this time, you can sit back and enjoy the Italian countryside whizzing past the window. The Frecciarossa 9503 offers various service levels, including Executive, Business, Premium, and Standard. There are also accessible facilities for passengers using wheelchairs, including equipped restrooms.

Arrival in Napoli Afragola

When you arrive at Napoli Afragola, you’ll need to switch to a FrecciaLink bus to continue your journey to Pompeii. The transfer time between your train arrival and bus departure is usually about 20 minutes, so there’s no need to rush. The FrecciaLink buses are designed to cater to travelers continuing from high-speed trains, offering a smooth connection without the need for a separate ticket purchase.

The bus ride to Pompeii lasts approximately 35 minutes, providing a comfortable option for travelers, including those using wheelchairs. The FrecciaLink buses do not sell stand-alone tickets, meaning you can only use this service in combination with a Freccia train ticket. There’s no seat allocation on these buses, but fret not, as standing passengers are not allowed, ensuring everyone has a seat.

Exploring Pompeii

Upon arriving in Pompeii, another quick transfer is required to reach Pompeii Scavi, where the main archaeological site is located. For this, you’ll take the local NP13 bus. This short 10-minute drive connects regular buses to the heart of Pompeii’s ruins. Services on this route are basic, and bus tickets are non-reservable. 

Diving into the History of Pompeii

Once you have arrived at Pompeii Scavi, you can begin your exploration of the ancient ruins. Pompeii offers an extraordinary snapshot of ancient Roman life, with well-preserved buildings, frescoes, and artifacts. You can walk through the ancient streets, explore houses, temples, and forums. Highlights include the amphitheater, the Forum, and the remarkably preserved villas that speak volumes about the everyday lives of its inhabitants.

It’s advisable to hire a knowledgeable guide or join a guided tour to make the most of your visit. The insights and stories these guides provide can add a rich layer to your understanding of the ruins. Don’t forget to carry water, wear comfortable shoes, and use sun protection, especially during the summer months, as the site can get exceedingly warm.

The area around Pompeii is peppered with quaint eateries offering delicious Italian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, there’s something for everyone. Try local specialties such as Neapolitan pizza or fresh seafood. A good meal will rejuvenate you for more exploring or your return journey.

Making Your Way Back to Rome

After spending an enriching day soaking up the history and marveling at the ancient ruins of Pompeii, it’s time to return to Rome. This return journey is designed to be just as smooth and straightforward as your trip to Pompeii was, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your way back from Pompeii to Rome, focusing on every essential detail provided in the transportation schedule.

Departing Pompeii Scavi

Your return journey begins at the Pompei Scavi bus stop. Plan to leave at around 18:15 from Via Villa dei Misteri, which is conveniently located near the archaeological site. The first leg of this journey will be on the NP32 bus. This short bus ride takes approximately 10 minutes, getting you to the Pompei stop by 18:25. Note that the NP32 service is a second-class option and doesn’t offer reservable seats, so it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Transfer at Pompei

After reaching the Pompei bus stop by 18:25, you’ll have a 25-minute window to make your way to the FrecciaLink LK130 bus that will take you to Napoli Afragola. This bus leaves at around 18:50, and although tickets cannot be purchased separately for this bus service, they’re included as part of your Frecciarossa combined ticket. FrecciaLink buses are wheelchair accessible but don’t offer specific seat reservations. This bus journey lasts about 48 minutes, ensuring you arrive at Napoli Afragola by approximately 19:38.

Arriving in Napoli Afragola

Once you reach Napoli Afragola at 19:38, there will be a short 20-minute wait before you catch the Frecciarossa 9568 train back to Roma Termini. The Frecciarossa trains are known for their high-speed travel and luxurious services, aiming to make your return journey as phenomenal as possible.

Boarding the Frecciarossa 9568

At 19:58, it’s time to board the Frecciarossa 9568 at Napoli Afragola. The train ride back to Rome is around 57 minutes. Frecciarossa trains are equipped with multiple service levels—Executive, Business, Premium, and Standard—to cater to various passenger needs. They have designated wheelchair spaces and accessible restrooms, making them convenient for all travelers. This train also includes a bar service, allowing you to grab a quick snack or beverage as you travel back.

By approximately 20:55, you will arrive back at Roma Termini, feeling enriched and satisfied after a day full of historical exploration. Arriving in central Rome at that hour provides you with plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely evening.

Pro Tips for a Seamless Experience

• Ticket Purchases and Reservations: It’s advisable to buy all your tickets in advance. This ensures that you have reserved your seats, particularly on the Frecciarossa, where seat allocation is included in the ticket price.
• Comfort and Convenience: Carry comfortable wear and bring sun protection for the Pompeii ruins. Comfort is key, especially when exploring ancient sites.
• Snacks and Drinks: While the Frecciarossa includes a bar service, carrying your refreshments can be helpful for the bus segments of your return trip.
• Flexibility and Timing: While this guide aims to provide an optimal timeline for your return, always keep an eye on real-time schedules and platforms. Slight delays can occur, and flexibility is helpful.

Why Choose This Route?

This particular route is efficient and designed to provide maximum comfort. The combination of a quick NP32 bus ride, FrecciaLink bus service to Napoli Afragola, and the high-speed Frecciarossa back to Rome ensures that you experience minimal down-time and maximum convenience.

Best Time to Visit

While Pompeii can be visited year-round, the best time is during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder, and the tourist crowds are thinner. These periods offer pleasanter conditions for exploring open-air archeological sites. Avoid peak summer months if you can, as the heat can be intense and might deter your overall experience.

Taking a day trip from Rome to Pompeii is not only feasible but also immensely rewarding. By carefully planning your journey down to the last detail, you ensure a smooth and enjoyable excursion that enriches your overall Italian experience. From the moment you step aboard the Frecciarossa train in Rome, through your exploration of Pompeii, and all the way back to the Eternal City, each segment of the trip connects seamlessly to offer you a historic adventure with modern-day ease.

You might be interested in …

Piazza di santa maria in trastevere, how many days do you need in rome, what is the role of the swiss guard in the vatican, porta portese flea market in rome.

Rome to Pompeii Day Trip: The Smart Way vs. The Hard Way

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

So you find yourself in Rome with the spirit of adventure up your bum!  

Rome to Pompeii in a Day has a nice ring to it! If you’re a lover of ancient history, there’s a good chance a trip to Pompeii has already caught your attention. A small town near Naples that was destroyed and buried under ash after the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, Pompeii is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Italy – yes, even more than Venice!

So naturally, visiting the ruins caused by a still active volcano is definitely a must-do for anyone spending time in Naples or Rome. But should you put in work and effort to calculate train routes and rent the shitty little audiotape tour in Pompeii to save $30, or should you let this adventure be handled by the pros and make the most of your day trip? Here’s what you need to know to make the decision.

Table of Contents

Before you Go

• You can get from Rome to Pompeii by Guided Tour, by Train, or by Bus.
• The bus takes too long ( 3 hrs each way ), and so I don’t recommend it.
• There’s no direct train from Rome to Pompeii – but there is a high speed option!
• Guided tours make for the best value and least headache for a day trip like this.
• Exploring Pompeii takes about 3 – 4 hours – its quite large.
• Yes, Mount Vesuvius is still an ACTIVE volcano .

If you’re planning a proper trip to Italy, I loved doing my 2 Week Road Trip from Napoli to Sicily , which included Pompei! ❤️

THE SMART WAY: Guided Tour – Best Options From Rome to Pompeii

I usually stay away from guided tours, preferring to explore on my own, taking the time to bump along rather than follow a checklist of must-do attractions when I visit anywhere. There are a few exclusions to this rule – one being the free walking tours of a city when you first get in, and two being the historical day trips where you need the historical context and efficiency of time to fully enjoy the experience.

I recommend a guided tour for your day trip from Rome to Pompeii for:

• Anyone looking to maximize their time in Pompeii rather than get caught up in the logistics of getting there by bus or train.
• Anyone interested in skipping the lines at the gate of Pompeii Archeological Park, which in the summertime can be huge!
• Anyone interested in learning the history, context, and implications of Pompeii from an archeological tour guide, licensed in Italian history and storytelling.
• Anyone traveling with kids (for obvious reasons) or a small group.
• And anyone who is tired of navigating the hustle and bustle of Italy for a day and just wants to sit back, relax, and listen to the experts tell it like it is!

PRO TIP : Save the more expensive day trips for when you are time-strapped and want to have a ‘ blow it out of the water ‘ type of trip. Or if you’re on a honeymoon and want to have at least a little bit of time on the Amalfi Coast without actually staying on the Amalfi Coast.

Which is Better: The Amalfi Coast or Sicily?

If you’re wanting to spice up your trip and see some iconic south Italian culture, taste the authenticity of a south Italian meal, and see these views in real life… yea, I got you! This was one of my favorite trips to research.

THE HARD WAY: Do it Yourself – Rome to Pompeii by Train

Doing it Yourself (DIY) is definitely an option for a day trip from Rome to Pompeii, especially for a savvy traveler who doesn’t mind fumbling around for a little bit. It’s not the easiest way, it does require some concessions on comfort and time, but it’s an option… one which I’ve done!

Of course, I came back and did it over again with a guided tour and a historical archeologist and thought… “ Damn, should have done it this way from the start. ” But I digress, you’ve got this!

How to Quickly Get There

The total roundtrip transportation cost for the high-speed train from Rome to Pompeii is about $50 if you book ahead, and will take you about 2 hours each way.

• Hop on the high-speed train from Rome Termini Station to Naples Centrale Station. This will take 70 minutes and cost about $20 each way if you book a spot in advance. You can also just show up the day of and pay about $50, but … that’s just silly. ( Book Here )
• Switch trains in Napoli by following the signs downstairs to the Circumvesuviana station – all the way to the bottom floor. These trains run from Naples to  Pompeii Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri  every 30 minutes. They cost $5 each way and take about 40 minutes .
• Walk 5 minutes to the Pompeii Archeological site when you get off the train! Make sure you check out opening hours before you go, here !

Average DIY Costs with Pros & Cons

• Pros : This is the cheapest option, no tour, no guide, and you get a little map of the site so you can find your way around, reading the info guides along the way.
• Cons : The lines get pretty long, the crowds big, and it’s best to book online ahead of time so you get a time slot for when you are there. You also will have no idea what you’re looking at or where you are going, noting that Pompeii is actually very large.
• Pros : Again, it’s cheap and easy as long as you download the app ahead of time, map out your route inside the app, and bring your own headphones.
• Cons : I spent so much time fiddling with the controls of the app, that I realized this was ruining my enjoyment of visiting Pompeii – so I gave up and simply read the physical signs posted around the ruins.
• Pros : It’s slightly better than the self-guided apps, comes in a few languages, and is cheaper than hiring an archeological guide.
• Cons : I found the audio guides to be boring and clinical in narration, basically just spewing facts and dates without a real story to support it. Also, the headphones were uncomfortable.
• Pros : They are certified by the Campania Region, walk around with you to the best spots and provide history, context, and implications, are a wealth of knowledge, not to mention great storytellers.
• Cons : They are a bit more expensive than the self-guided options above, and sometimes are not available on the spot if you have not booked one ahead of time through a tour.

FAQ: Rome to Pompeii in a Day

Is a day trip to pompeii worth it .

Hell, the floof YES! If you’re interested in Roman history, a visit to Pompeii is a must. This ancient city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and today, it provides an incredible insight into Roman life and the power of an active volcano. Plus, a Pompeii day trip from Rome is easy to do – either by guided tour or independently!

A bit of history so you’re not going in blind – Pompeii was founded around 600 BC, and by the 1st century AD, it had become one of Rome’s wealthiest provinces. The city was famous for its luxury goods, and it was a popular destination for wealthy Romans looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

However, all of this came to an abrupt end when Mount Vesuvius erupted. The eruption caused widespread destruction, and the city was buried beneath several feet of ash and rock. It wasn’t until 1748 that Pompeii was rediscovered, and since then it has become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. The ruins provide astonishing insight into Roman life, and they offer a sobering reminder of the power of nature.

Can you believe the Italians still live at the foothills of a very active Mt. Vesuvius today – it’s like Napoli has no fear… either that or God is with them!

Is Herculaneum worth visiting? 

Did you know that there’s another nearby archaeological site close to Pompeii that’s well worth a visit? Herculaneum was also buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and despite its close proximity to Pompeii, Herculaneum is much less crowded than its more famous counterpart. So if you’re looking for a slightly more relaxed way to experience Roman history, this is it.

The archaeology at Herculaneum is particularly well-preserved, thanks to the way in which the town was buried. Whereas Pompeii was covered in volcanic ash, Herculaneum was submerged by a mudflow, which helped to preserve many of the wooden structures and organic materials. This means that you can see things like wooden furniture, food remains, and even human skeletons at the site.

Which is better, Pompeii or Herculaneum? 

Honestly, I did both in one day, and I found both to be fascinating. I recommend hiring the archeological guide or doing the combo tour from Rome because otherwise, you’ll be roaming around ancient city ruins with no clue as to their importance. Plus, the guided tour is like stepping into a very fascinating history class back in college. Always here for an education!

When is the best time to visit Pompeii? 

The good news is that Pompeii can be visited year-round. However, there are certain times of year that suck more. For example, the summer months can be very hot, making it difficult to spend hours walking around the ruins. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit Pompeii, as the weather is milder and the tourists are not so abundant.

Is Pompeii closed on Monday?

For a while, during COVID, it was. But that’s no longer the case. Now, Pompeii is open almost every day of the year – you can check the schedule here .

Is there a dress code for Pompeii? 

You’ll be walking around the site for about 3-4 hours, and there is not a lot of shade in Pompeii. I recommend bringing a water bottle, hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a raincoat in case you get an afternoon drizzle. Pack light, but smart!

Is Pompeii accessible for people with disability?

Yes, since 2016, Pompeii boasts “Italy’s longest accessible pathway through an archaeological site”, according to their website.

Are pets allowed at Pompeii?

Yes, small fur babies are allowed, but no big dogs and all pets must be on a leash!

Don’t Miss these 7 Sights in Pompeii!

Pompeii is a city that was frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it is easy to see why. Here are some of my favorite sights to see:

Pompeii is a truly unique place, and there is no other city like it in the world – except maybe Herculaneum! 🙃

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

How To Visit Pompeii From Rome

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: February 23, 2023

Thinking of visiting Pompeii from Rome? Good choice! It’s one of the largest and best-preserved archeological sites on Earth. You literally walk around a beautifully preserved ancient Roman city. This is why about 2.5 million people visit it annually, but where is it and how do you visit? Here’s everything you need to know about how to visit Pompeii from Rome.

Pro Tip: Planning your visit to Pompeii? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our  guide to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast for more planning resources, our  top Pompeii tours  for a memorable trip, and what to see at Pompeii .

 A UNESCO World Heritage site, Pompeii is a massive archeological site of enormous value. After its discovery, almost 1500 years after the site was “flash frozen” by volcanic ash from the A.D. 79 eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii has taught us limitless details about ancient Roman society. With over 2.5 million annual visitors, it’s easy to see why it is a must-see attraction.

Visiting Pompeii makes for a wonderful day trip from Rome if you have the time. In this guide, find out everything you need to know about how to visit Pompeii from Rome. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• What is Pompeii?
• Can you do a day trip to Pompeii from Rome?
• How to get to Pompeii
• Pompeii opening hours and tickets
• FAQ: Visiting Pompeii from Rome
• Places to eat near Pompeii

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Pompeii day trip from Rome is worth it .

What Is Pompeii?

Pompeii was a booming port city in the Ancient Roman Empire. Its fate was forever changed on August 24th, A.D. 79 when the volcano Mt. Vesuvius erupted, shooting a 10-mile high mushroom cloud of ash and pumice into the stratosphere. Those who were not killed by the missiles of pumice raining down or the lava were wiped out by the toxic gases that overcame the area, essentially suffocating everyone.

When Vesuvius erupted, the volcanic ash and mud shielded the city’s artefacts from destruction and preserved a huge amount of history. To this day, you can still see some of the bodies, clothes, and even places of business that have been preserved from the eruption. Ironically, this disastrous day for the Romans has created for the modern man an intimate look into what life was like in an ancient Roman city.

Can You Do a Day Trip To Pompeii From Rome?

Short answer : Yes!

While many people visit Pompeii during their stay on the Amalfi Coast, a day trip is definitely feasible. I created a little graph below to help you decide which is the best option for you. You can also see our guide on whether or not a day trip to Pompeii from Rome is worth it for you.

Both above options are viable—on foot is a joke, of course, just to lighten the mood. As you can see there are pros and cons to each option. It really depends on your own preference. Another alternative is to book a day trip tour and take advantage of the transport included. It takes all the difficulty out of getting to Pompeii, freeing up your time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the day from start to finish.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Guide for more resources.

How To Get To Pompeii 

By Train: 

The high-speed train from Rome to Naples runs every 20 minutes. You can take the train from Roma Termini station to Napoli Centrale in just over an hour. Book on Trenitalia or through Italo. They are two competing train companies. I prefer Italo.

From Napoli Centrale, you can switch to the local train to Pompeii. The local train, called the Circumvesuviana, is located down the corridor in what is technically Napoli Garibaldi Station.

Take the train towards Sorrento and you’ll arrive at Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri station after about 20 minutes. The station is a matter of feet from the entrance to the archaeological area.

If you choose to take the train to Pompeii on your own but want skip-the-line tickets and a guided tour, check out our  Skip the Line Pompeii Ruins Tour with Villa of Mysteries .

For you adventurous souls who rented a car, it’s quite easy. Get on the Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA) and head onto the A1 highway to Naples. Once you get close to Naples, change to the Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno (exit Pompeii ovest). Or just add the destination into your GPS maps app and hit the road.

Popular Tours from Rome

Best Seller

Unforgettable Rome Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorrento

This is the best way to see Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast from Rome. You’ll take private transportation with our guide down to Pompeii where an archeologist will tour our small group through the ruins. Then we’ll head over to Sorrento which is the tip of the Amalfi Coast before returning to Rome. Tickets, transportation, and guides are included in the price.

See prices and more info

Rome in a Day Tour with Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, and More!

Looking to get much of your sightseeing done in one day? This tour enters the Vatican an hour before opening and visits the Colosseum along with other sites like the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain. All admissions and transportation are included as well as a licensed English-speaking guide!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Rome Guide for more resources.

Pompeii Opening Hours and Tickets

Most people who visit Pompeii come by train from Naples. The good thing is that the train station lets you off right in front of the entrance to the archeological park. From there, it is literally a 1-minute walk to the entrance and you can’t miss it.

There are three entrances into the archeological park, but you’ll most likely be entering from Porta Marina. This is the entrance next to the train station and the main parking area. This is also the main ticket desk, so you can buy your ticket here and begin your adventure. You can easily purchase tickets directly at the ticket counter.

Opening Hours: 

Open daily, from April to October, 9 am – 7 pm (last entrance is 5:30 pm); from November to March, 9 am – 5 pm (last entrance is 3:30 pm)

• Adult Full: €18
• Reduced: €2 (EU citizens aged 18-25 years old)

FAQ: Visiting Pompeii From Rome

Here is a list of the most frequently asked questions I get and some quick answers.

Places To Eat Near Pompeii

Your destination is an archeological site, so you won’t find any upscale restaurants nearby. However, I have listed two places where you can grab a bite for lunch before heading back to Rome.

Autogrill Cafetteria : € |  Good Bufalino —Calling it a cafeteria is a stretch, but it is the only option inside the archeological park where you can get some refreshments. It is located behind the Temple of Jupiter.

Bar Sgambati : € | Wi-Fi —This is the Bar/Restaurant/Pizzeria right next to the Pompeii train station. The food and prices are average I would say, but it’s your best bet to get something to eat in the area before or after your trip to the archeological site.

Here’s Where To Stay in Italy’s Most Popular Destinations

Rome , Florence , Venice , Amalfi Coast , and Capri

Best Hotels & Where to Stay

Reader Interactions

Comments (2).

February 8, 2023

why do you say the site is closed on Mondays? According to the official website it is open everyday. There are some parts that are closed, but that day is Tuesdday.

February 23, 2023

Thanks for keeping us on our toes this season. We’ve made the updates. Enjoy your visit!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

From Rome to Pompeii: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Diana Bocco Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Located almost 250 kilometers south of Rome , Pompeii is now one of the most popular day trips away from the capital , but since it can take up to three hours to reach the ruins from the capital , planning your trip well is essential to make the most of it.

Buses, trains, and tours all connect Rome to Pompeii several times per day and offer a variety of options based on different prices, schedules, and even what kind of trip you're looking for: a relaxed on-your-own excursion or an in-depth experience with as much comfort as possible.

The ancient Roman city of Pompeii is well-known for being buried under meters of volcanic ash many centuries ago. The Pompeii ruins receive over 2.5 million visitors every year, making them one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country . In the high season, buses, trains, and roads can be very busy.

Regardless of your choice of transportation, here are the best ways to travel from Rome to Pompeii.

On This Page:

• From Rome to Pompeii by Tour
• From Rome to Pompeii by Train
• From Rome to Pompeii by Bus
• From Rome to Pompeii by Car

1. From Rome to Pompeii by Tour

If you want to avoid the trouble of figuring out transportation connections and instead want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, the Rome to Pompeii Shuttle Bus & Independent Day Trip is a great option. This 11-hour hassle-free round-trip travel starts in the heart of Rome at 7:30am, when you meet your driver and board an air-conditioned coach or minibus shuttle.

From here, you'll start the 3.5-hour drive to Pompeii , crossing through the beautiful Tuscan countryside along the way. The English-speaking host on board will help you understand the history of Pompeii and what we know about the city before it was destroyed by the volcano Vesuvius in AD 79.

Once you arrive at the Pompeii Archaeological Park, you'll have time to explore the ruins on your own , using the walking paths, frescoes, and informative plaques to guide you around the ruins. You'll have a chance to discover the excavated ruins of streets, outdoor theaters, squares, and shrines that once stood here - some of them well-preserved, as is the case of the Temple of Apollo and its 48 Ionic columns.

If you want a more in-depth understanding of the ruins, you can buy an optional excavations-and-tour upgrade . This two-hour guided tour will take you through the ruins and show you the ins and outs of the most interesting stops in Pompeii , including the well-preserved houses of wealthy merchants, the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater, and ancient wall paintings.

In the mid-afternoon, you'll board your shuttle for the comfortable ride back to Rome.

2. From Rome to Pompeii by Train

The quickest way to reach Pompeii from Rome is on a direct high-speed train , which covers the entire route in just around two hours , faster than driving there and much faster than taking a bus. These trains usually offer three levels of comfort: Premier, First, and Second Class. While higher classes offer some perks (a free drink and a newspaper, for example), the cost difference might not be worth it on such a short ride.

There are also cheaper, slower commuter trains that can get you to Pompeii in four hours , as well as high-speed trains that require a change in Naples. This last option is still faster than driving but longer than two hours, as having to change trains can add significant time to the trip.

If speed is important (especially if you're hoping to visit Pompeii as a day trip), the Frecciarossa and Freccibianca high-speed trains are your best option. These trains depart from the central Termini Station several times a day and offer plenty of great amenities, including comfortable first-class seats, free drinks onboard, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.

The Frecciarossa trains have a café car and regularly get high ratings for their ultra-comfortable rides. Do keep in mind that high-speed trains cost about double what you would pay for a low-speed commuter train; local trains tend to be more crowded.

Booking a ticket at least a week in advance will save you significant money, as prices go up the closer you get to your travel date.

Most trains, including the Frecciarossa trains, stop in Naples . The ride between Rome and Naples takes around 70 minutes, and while Italian trains aren't as punctual or fast as Swiss trains, they usually run more or less on time. Once in Naples, you'll have to switch to a local inter-city train for the rest of the way.

Trains arrive at the tiny Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station, just a few steps away from the ruins. The last train back to Rome departs at 8:50pm. If you miss it, you'll have to spend the night in Pompeii, so plan accordingly.

3. From Rome to Pompeii by Bus

Long-distance bus companies Flixbus and Marozzi VT depart from the Rome Tiburtina Bus Station and cover the route between Rome and Pompeii several times per day. You can make reservations online in advance to secure the seat of your choice and to get cheaper prices. This is especially important in summer, when tickets sell out fast.

If you choose a direct bus , the journey takes approximately three hours , depending on traffic. The direct buses are comfortable, offering free Wi-Fi and hot drinks on board.

It's also possible to take a bus to Metropark Centrale in Naples and then change to a second, local bus there, but this will extend your travel time considerably. On the positive side, local public buses will take you directly from Naples to the ruins, so you will be just steps away from the entrance to the park.

The earliest bus to Pompeii leaves from Rome at 4:15am and the latest at 6:30pm. Always check in advance where the drop-off point is – long-distance buses often stop at the Piazza Falcone e Borsellino, which is not a walkable distance to the ruins. If your journey ends there, you can then take a local Busitalia bus to get to the entrance to the park.

If this is just a day trip, keep in mind that the last direct bus back to Rome leaves from Pompeii at 6pm, so you'll either have to catch a train or sleep over.

4. From Rome to Pompeii by Car

If you're thinking about driving from Rome to Pompeii, you might want to consider staying overnight. With 241 kilometers between the two cities, the drive will easily take two and a half hours (or three if traffic gets heavy while leaving Rome or along the route) one way. Add to that at least a few stops to explore scenic little villages and natural landscapes, and you're looking at a long drive – you likely won't want to drive back the same day.

On the positive side, the drive between the two cities is pretty straightforward and direct on the E45 autostrada (toll motorway) , so even without a GPS, you can't get lost. Tolls in Italy are paid as you drive, and the cost is based on the distance traveled. This is often more expensive than the vignette system in other European countries, and you'll need either cash (Euros) or a debit/credit card to pay at every toll gate along the way.

Great stops along the way include Tivoli and the Roman Hadrian's Villa UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the coastal city of Gaeta, filled with Roman ruins and fortifications. You'll drive near Napoli and Mount Vesuvius, too, both worth a visit.

More on Italy

How to Plan the Best Day Trip to Pompeii from Rome

A day trip to Pompeii from Rome is very doable, especially if you book the high-speed train. 

That’s what we did, and it was worth the extra cost over the other options out there.

I’ll get into all of your options for visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, why you should follow our lead, and whether it’s all even worth the effort to visit Pompeii on your Italy trip. 

Quick Tips for Your Pompeii Visit

Your Flight:  Seek out deals to Leonardo da Vinci–Rome Fiumicino Airport using Skyscanner . Love deals? Subscribe to Going .

Your Accommodations:  I wouldn’t recommend our Rome accommodations to my worst enemy. Browse Booking.com  or Hotels.com  for more options. Vrbo is my Airbnb alternative.

Top Spots: Start at the Forum, tour the Villa of the Mysteries, and have a gladiator moment at the amphitheater.

Disclosure: Travel on the Reg uses affiliate links to keep things running around here . At no additional cost to you, I earn a lil’ commission if you make a purchase. Any income earned supports the upkeep of this site . I appreciate you!

Can you do a day trip from Rome to Pompeii?

You can visit Pompeii from Rome in one day and be quite efficient about it thanks to the high-speed trains that run between the two. Some travelers even combine trips to Pompeii and Herculaneum in one full day starting in Rome , the Eternal City.

I wouldn’t recommend that unless you’re truly short on time, as you may get some ruins fatigue if you go that route.

I WOULD recommend starting with Pompeii even if you do have time for both, as it truly is something you need to see in person to understand what happened here.

How far is Pompeii from Rome?

Pompeii is 150 miles from Rome. The high-speed train is a great way to watch those miles breeze by with a view.

What are the best ways to get from Rome to Pompeii?

The best way to visit Pompeii from Rome is on the high-speed train. Take the train from Roma Termini station, or Rome Termini, to Napoli Centrale, or Naples Centrale.

From there, take the commuter train into Pompeii. Google maps was super confusing here, sending us to what was listed as the L1, which is a Naples local metro train. You don’t want this.

You also don’t need to take a bus. Your maps may tell you to do that, too. 

Look for signs for the EAV, instead, to get a ride on the Circumvesuviana. Tickets are available at the station, so there’s no reason to book in advance as you plan your trip to Pompeii.

I’ve read that this train gets super crowded and many travelers don’t love it because of that and the lack of climate control. We were there in November and didn’t have that issue. We got seats right away there and back.

I imagine summertime experiences may be different and a bit more…humid.

Take the Circumvesuviana train to the Pompeii Scavi/Villa Dei Misteri station. You may see it written as “Pompeii Scavi” elsewhere. That’s the same thing.

Our ride was about 35 minutes with a few stops, but I’ve read that it can take up to 45 minutes. You’ll be within a short walk of the archaeological site from your final stop.

Note: Carry some cash for that local train ride. We didn’t have an issue with a credit card payment buying tickets, but the cashier next to us was working with a broken machine. It was less than three euro during our trip, so you don’t need deep pockets for this option. 

Guided Tours for Your Day Trip to Pompeii From Rome

Guided tours are an alternative to the Rome to Pompeii train. While most of the best day tour options will still get you there on the train, some bloggers are all over the idea of having someone show you around the complex. 

It’s huge and can certainly feel overwhelming, so I don’t want to knock that too much.

We were thankful we didn’t have one the day of and I’ll tell you why.

When it started pouring, we were able to get ourselves to relative safety (and warmth!) inside the museum on-site.

The large and small private group tour folks had to deal with it whether they were prepared with ponchos or not.

This wasn’t some Seattle drizzle. This was a downpour.

That said, I’m all about tours to make it easier on you or if you’re unable to get yourself to something this bucket listy on your own. This adventure is easy to DIY, but I get that tours make trips here even more accessible, even if you’ll have less free time at the site.

Here are some highly-rated options that would hopefully come with some sunny skies, including some that involve wine:

How long is a day trip from Rome to Pompeii?

The length of your day trip to Pompeii will depend on how you choose to visit the site. Guided tours can last anywhere from nine to 13 hours.

If you’re traveling without a guide, you can make your visit shorter (or longer!) depending on your stamina for the site. 

Three hours will allow you to see the highlights at a normal pace and see sites like the suburban villas outside of the main tourist circuit.

Two hours in Pompeii may be pushing it, but it can be done if you familiarize yourself with the site ahead of time. You’ll just need to prioritize your trip, as there’s quite a bit of distance in between sites.

How much does it cost to go to Pompeii from Rome?

The cost of your trip to Pompeii depends on how you choose to get there. The Rome to Pompeii fast train starts around $20 if you include the local train in Naples in your total. 

Expect to pay quite a bit more if you decide to go to Pompeii from Rome on a guided tour. 

Tickets to Pompeii itself start around $19. I recommend paying a few extra dollars to see the suburban villas.

What to See Once You’re at Pompeii

Unless you want to wander aimlessly, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the map of Pompeii to help you plan your visit. This is especially true if you’re short on travel time and want to be efficient about it. 

Note: Download the official map on your device before you arrive so you’re not waiting for anything to load. I didn’t and had to waste some time getting it to open at the site. 

I’ll go into some of the more popular and most striking sites below, but you can truly walk through the site in a way that moves you. The map link above also comes with three different walking routes. 

The Forum (Foro de Pompeya)

You couldn’t miss this spot if you tried. This is likely where you’ll start on your day, and likely the most crowded spot.

I get it. Pompeii is a bucket list item for many travelers, and the Forum, or the Civil Forum, was the heart of ancient Pompeii. This was the center of market and political activity. It was where folks gathered to do all of their business. 

It’s also where you’ll find remains of the main temples, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Apollo. You’ll see little more than columns and stone platforms today, but I’m sure you can use your imagination.

The Forum Baths

This is just one example of ancient Roman baths in Pompeii, but it’s the best preserved. That’s thanks to years of restoration work giving visitors a better idea of one of the locals’ favorite activities. You’ll find these behind the Temple
of Jupiter.

Back in the day, there were separate entrances for men and women. The women’s side was actually being renovated at the time of the volcanic eruption. 

Fun fact: If you love a good Roman bath, visit the Stabian Baths, or Termas Estabianas. These were the largest of the five baths in Pompeii.

The Villa of the Mysteries (Villa dei Misteri)

I highly recommend you get the access ticket that includes the Villa of the Mysteries, our favorite spot in the ancient city .

Outside of what you’ll see in archaeological museums, this is where you’ll see the most complete frescoes and structures still standing in Pompeii.

The name comes from what you’ll notice about the frescoes. They appear to depict an initiation into some kind of mystery cult. If you know anything about me, know that I can’t get enough when it comes to cults.

It’s a bit of a walk to get there, but expect loads of steps on tours to Pompeii from Rome anyway. That also means you’re unlikely to see many people here. They don’t want to work as hard as you.

READ MORE: Love mysterious sites? Check out my guide to the Venetian Lagoon, including creepy Torcello.

The Villa of Diomedes

This is another suburban villa you’ll pass on your way to the Villa of the Mysteries.

While it’s not nearly as impressive in terms of the art and structural integrity of the ruins, there’s a surprising green space here that’s worth a look from the highest point.

Based on its size, this was likely a luxury villa. A total of 36 people were found here, including one body that was draped in numerous gold coins, medals, and rings. You can’t spend your money when you’re dead, people.

House of the Faun

This one was under restoration during our visit, but I’d recommend a trip even if that was the case during your trip, too. It’s a great way to see the meticulous work done here to bring back even a fraction of what life was like for people back then.

The house was one of the largest in Pompeii, which means its inhabitants were likely rich folks who liked showing off their wealth in the form of impressive mosaics.

The home was named after the statue of the Faun outside. There’s a replica there today, but you can see the original at the archaeological museum in Naples. 

House of Paquius Proculus

We had to make a stop at this one because of the dog standing guard out front. From the photo, you already know I’m talking about a mosaic. Other art found inside suggests this was the dwelling of a rich couple.

The Amphitheater

You’d think this is where all the tourists would be, but that isn’t the case thanks to its location at the archaeological site.

It’s way at the far end away from any of the main entrances, so you’ll get to play your own gladiator games without much interference.

We had just toured the Colosseum in Rome the day before so weren’t as impressed as we should have been, but it still stands that this is one the oldest surviving amphitheaters in Italy.

The Antiquarium of Pompeii

We took refuge in this museum during the downpour upon arrival and probably spent more time than we needed looking at the modest exhibits.

If you really have a thing for archaeology museums, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples is miles better.

You’ll need to pass through Naples on your way to and from Pompeii if you follow my suggestion to DIY your trip on the high-speed train. Just leave some time on either end for the museum if you’re interested.

Most visitors pass through here to see the casts of victims caught in the eruption. I found them quite haunting as a stark reminder of the human tragedy that happened at this site before it was a tourist attraction.

Extra Tips for Your Day Trip to Pompeii

You made it to Pompeii. Now what? Here are a few more tips to make for the best Pompeii tours, whether you’re with a guide or not:

• It’s worth buying Pompeii tickets in advance. It’s one of the most popular tourist sites in Italy , and its accessibility on even a half-day trip to Pompeii from Rome makes it that much more crowded.
• Make sure you’re showing the right tickets. I showed the guys at the booth tickets for Herculanean and nearly had a panic attack when they told me I had the wrong day. Various “Mamma mias” ensued when we all realized my error.
• Bring rain gear. We had one umbrella to share and rain jackets and boots that weren’t as weather-proof as we thought. None of it was a match for the deluge that occurred. It was short-lived, but the damage was done.
• Bring sun gear. There’s very little cover at the site. If you’re visiting on a hot, sunny day, bring your own cover. Wear sunglasses and a hat. Carry more water than you think you’ll need.
• Pack snacks. There’s one cafeteria-style option inside the park, but otherwise, you’ll have to leave the site if you want anything substantial. Bring some fuel to keep you going when those distances on your map start to feel super far.
• Save room for pizza. If you only need a couple of hours in the park, it may be worth snacking until you can make a late lunch. That way, you can grab some pizza in Naples instead of the lesser Pompeii options.
• If you must eat, you have some options. Na’ Pasta and La Verace are the two I’ve seen recommended by other travel folks, but I can’t vouch for either. As I said, the food in Naples is comparable to the best food cities in Italy .

Is it better to see Pompeii or Herculaneum?

It’s better to see Pompeii if you want a true bucket list experience. It’s the more popular of the two for a reason. It’s incredible. 

I simply can’t tell you to skip Pompeii in favor of Herculaneum. This is a take I’ve seen on other blogs and it’s a real head-scratcher.

Pompeii is the one that will make you feel quite small from the enormity of not only the site but the tragedy here. 

If you have a level of stamina I don’t, it is possible to see Herculaneum and Pompeii on the same day. 

Fun fact: You can take the same train you would back to Naples but get off at the Ercolano Scavi station, instead.

We didn’t do this, and I’m glad we didn’t. We wanted some time back in Naples after our Pompeii trip, so we visited Herculaneum on a second trip.

Herculaneum is an impressive site that won’t take nearly as much time as Pompeii, but I worry you won’t appreciate it as much if you smash it in at the end of your Pompeii day trip. 

That said, we were done with Herculaneum in about a full hour, and that didn’t even feel rushed. The site is definitely still worth the effort if you have extra time. It’s much more well-preserved, so you can better see how those rich people lived (and died). 

It’s just much smaller. The two don’t compare.

More Things to Do Near Pompeii

If you need more ideas for things to do in Rome, I have a guide to three full days in Rome .

Outside of Herculaneum, here are a few more ideas for things to do near Pompeii when you’re done cruising those ancient alleyways:

• Eat the pizza in Naples. Yes, pizza in Naples is delicious, which makes the city among the most delicious in Italy . If you think it’s overrated I feel sad for you. Read my guide to Naples for all of our favorite pizza spots.
• See the rest in Naples. The city is more than pizza, although it’s definitely that. The guide I shared with you gets into the goods about the best scenic stops, museums, and one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. 
• Visit Mount Vesuvius. We didn’t do a day trip to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Rome, but it’s even simpler if you’re visiting Herculaneum. Get tickets for the Vesuvio Express, a shuttle that travels up and down Vesuvius.
• Hit the coastal city of Sorrento. Sorrento is under an hour from Pompeii, so it can be a feasible add-on to itineraries in the region. Eat all of the lemon things and take in all of the sunshine in this Mediterranean beauty.

READ MORE: You can be in Florence in about an hour-and-a-half from Rome. Check out my Florence guide!

Pompeii Visit FAQs

Is pompeii closer to rome or florence.

Pompeii is closer to Rome than Florence. It’s not feasible to do a day trip to Pompeii from Florence. There’s no direct train and the full journey will take you around four hours one way with connections.

You’ll have to — and should! — visit Florence on a separate trip or extend your time to include beautiful Tuscany . Otherwise, Rome is still an impressive trip, especially if you tack on Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.

Can you do Pompeii and Amalfi Coast in one day?

You can do Pompeii and Amalfi Coast in one day, but it will be a very long day.

A day trip to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast from Rome means a lot of time on the transportation side of things. If you insist on making this happen, a guided tour is likely your most efficient bet.

Can you do Naples and Pompeii in one day?

You can do Naples and Pompeii in one day. Start in Pompeii while your energy is high, then finish your day in Naples where the focus is on eating and scenic stops.

Where should I stay if I want to see Pompeii?

You should stay in Naples, Sorrento, or Rome if you want to see Pompeii.

As this is a guide to day trips from Rome, you likely already know what we did on our own trip. I just wouldn’t recommend our accommodations in Rome because they were awful.

Check out the map below to browse accommodations in Rome:

Is Pompeii worth a day trip from Rome?

Pompeii is worth a day trip from Rome despite what you’ve heard about Herculaneaum as the better option. Pompeii’s size can feel overwhelming, but going in with a plan can make your visit feel more manageable.

I felt the site met my expectations. As one of the most important sites in Italy , it’s a must-see for history buffs, too.

You could return twice and see all new things on a trip to Pompeii, too. In fact, I may need to make that happen since I smelled like a wet dog for a good portion of my visit.

Planning more Italian travel? Check out these guides:

• An Itinerary for Bologna, One of My Favorite Cities!
• How to See the Florence Duomo Without Stress
• Bologna: Reasons to Visit the Foodie City
• A Detailed Guide to Colorful Burano
• Visit Verona for More Than Romeo and Juliet

Need more inspiration for Europe? Read these next:

• How to Plan Your Next Trip to Poland
• I Went to the Motherland With Mom. How it Went!
• Go Chase the Best Iceland Waterfalls
• Love Christmas? Visit Colmar, a Holiday Miracle
• How to Spend a Weekend on the French Riviera

Want to see more?

Subscribe to my biweekly newsletter for hot travel tips I come across, weird stories you won’t see elsewhere and perhaps lifelong friendship.

Too much, or just enough?

Agnes Groonwald

Best Pompeii Tours from Rome: 20 Guided Day Trips

Considering a Pompeii tour from Rome ? You’re in the right place! Come along as we leave behind the charismatic chaos of Rome, diving into a captivating journey to the remarkable ruins of Pompeii.

Let’s explore this archaeological gem, steeped in ancient rich history and secrets , on a day tour of Pompeii that promises to be nothing short of unforgettable. So grab your gear. It’s time to discover Pompeii in true Roman style!

This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Pompeii Day Trip from Rome

An immersive exploration of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, with guided insights , breathtaking views , and comfortable travel .

Pompeii Small Group Tour

Visit Pompeii with a small-group , archaeologist-led tour featuring skip-the-line access and insightful visits to key historic sites .

Unearthing History: Why a One-Day Trip to Pompeii from Rome Should Top Your List

While Rome, resplendent with history and striking beauty, leaves an indelible imprint on every traveler’s memory, integrating the Pompeii day trip truly rounds out your Italian journey , adding another layer of an unforgettable experience.

Believe me, visiting Pompeii (a UNESCO World Heritage Site ) is like adding a special twist to your Roman holiday. It’s like an invitation to walk the ancient streets and wonder at a city frozen in time .

Suggested Reading : Did you know that touring Rome by golf cart is a unique and intimate way to explore the city? Discover the best private tours for in our guide.

Curated for You: Best Pompeii Tours from Rome

After meticulously exploring and evaluating numerous popular tours to Pompeii from Rome, we’ve handpicked and curated the finest ones . Our recommendations are based on extensive research and personal experiences, offering you the cream of the crop.

1. Pompeii Day Trip from Rome with Mount Vesuvius or Amalfi Coast

⭐ RATING : 4.6 out of 5 Stars (5,069 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 13 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Delve into the intriguing history of Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii on a day excursion from Rome. In the summer months, relish the unique experience of ascending Mt. Vesuvius, while winter tours offer the lively allure of Naples. The UNESCO-endorsed ruins of Pompeii come to life under the guidance of a knowledgeable guide.

The Pompeii Day Trip from Rome with Mount Vesuvius or Amalfi Coast Option includes:

• Private, air-conditioned coach travel from Rome
• Day trip to Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii
• Ridge walk on the volcano’s side offers views of the volcanic ash remnants
• Breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples
• Guided tour of Pompeii ruins with an expert local guide

What past guests have said :

The tour guide was excellent! Totally worth the price! Climbing the volcano was tough but well worth it! The views were amazing!! Pompeii and the guide there were both also amazing! Incredible day! -Peter (see more reviews )

2. Semi Private Pompeii, Positano & Amalfi Coast Tour

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (1,852 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 12 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Set off on a memorable trip from Rome, soaking in the stunning Amalfi Coast’s vistas. Be amazed by the wonders of Pompeii, UNESCO-protected ruins, and delight in Positano’s picturesque charm.

This special journey combines captivating Italian scenery with enriching historical exploration. The limited eight-guest policy ensures a personal touch. And don’t forget the treat – a scrumptious meal at a local rural eatery.

The Semi Private Pompeii, Positano & Amalfi Coast Tour from Rome includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off at central Rome locations
• English-speaking private driver & A/C Mercedes minivan
• Full-day Amalfi Coast tour with a guide
• Lunch at a hillside restaurant with a Bay of Naples view
• Visit the picturesque village of Positano
• Leisurely beach walk in Positano
• Guided walk of UNESCO-listed Pompeii
• Small-group tour (maximum of eight people)

Roberto was a wonderful guide. It is a full day packed with history. Amalfi coast, lunch at an amazing family restaurant with views of the sea. Pompeii, and the knowledgeable guide. Long day, but if you are limited on time, well worth it! -Heidi (see more reviews )

Recommended Reading : Revealed: 10 Best Restaurants in Positano

3. From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip

⭐ RATING : 4.6 out of 5 Stars (2,304 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 13 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Venture from Rome to the historic Pompeii in a cozy, air-conditioned private coach. Let an expert archaeologist guide you through Pompeii’s timeless ruins and striking death casts.

Afterward, climb up the active Mt. Vesuvius in its national park. A short hike rewards with stunning views of Capri and Sorrento from the smoky crater.

The From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip includes:

• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach travel from Rome
• Mount Vesuvius ascent with Bay of Naples view
• Expert-guided tour of preserved Pompeii
• Roundtrip transport in a climate-controlled bus
• Fast-track Pompeii entry ticket
• Guided tour service
• Access to Vesuvius National Park

The entire trip was beyond fantastic. The guide, Vivian, was superb!! Attentive to our needs and extremely helpful. She had very interesting knowledge to share with us. Would highly recommend this trip to others seeking information about Pompeii and Vesuvius. -Verified Booking (see more reviews )

4. Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Guided Day Trip

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (1,428 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 13 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Experience the magic of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, southern Italy’s crown jewels, all in a single day from Rome. This trip eliminates the challenges of navigating public transport, saving you valuable time. It offers a comprehensive guided tour of Pompeii’s ancient ruins and a leisurely exploration of Positano, allowing sightseeing and shopping before returning to Rome.

The Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Guided Day Trip from Rome includes:

• Guided Pompeii tour
• Famous Amalfi Coast scenic drive
• Free time in Positano
• Air-conditioned private coach travel from Rome
• English-speaking guide for the day

Fantastic trip! Our tour guide was excellent. The sights were amazing! The history and sights of Pompeii exceeded everything I expected . -Sabrina (see more reviews )

Suggested Reading : Explore our comprehensive review of the 21 Safest Italian Cities for Travelers & Expats in our in-depth guide.

5. Pompeii Ruins Day Tour from Rome

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (332 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 13 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Take a memorable journey from Rome to the vast archaeological park of Pompeii for a day, where history comes alive. Experience the striking views over Naples and traverse the ancient Roman avenues of Pompeii, preserved by the looming eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Enjoy an authentic 2-course lunch at a local restaurant and relish the convenience of skip-the-line tickets and entrance fees included in your tour.

The Pompeii, Pompeii Ruins Day Tour from Rome includes:

• Pick-up service and A/C transportation
• Expert tour guide
• Authentic Neapolitan pizza lunch
• Naples and Pompeii day tour from Rome
• Stunning Naples views
• Local restaurant lunch stop
• Fast-track Pompeii entry
• Ancient Roman city exploration

The whole experience was awesome! The tour guide from Rome to Pompeii and back Enrico was awesome! Down to earth, very informative, and experienced. Made sure to talk one on one with every guest. -Ryan_P (see more reviews )

Suggested Reading : 10 Reasons to Visit Naples, Italy : From Pizzerias to Pompeii, This City Has it All

6. Small Group Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Guided Tour

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (1,071Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 13 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Spend a day away from Rome, exploring two UNESCO gems – Pompeii’s grand ruins and the stunning Amalfi Coast. Start with a visit to Pompeii, one of ancient Rome’s notable cities, and experience history come alive in its well-preserved amphitheater. Next, let the gorgeous Amalfi Coast captivate your senses and enjoy a self-funded meal in charming Positano.

The Small Group Pompeii and Amalfi Coast Guided Tour with Positano from Rome includes:

• Day-long Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano tour from Rome
• UNESCO-recognized Pompeii historical journey
• Fluent English-speaking tour leader
• Priority Pompeii entrance tickets
• Local-guided comprehensive Pompeii walk
• A/C private minibus travel
• Small-group tour, max 18 participants for a personal touch

Wow, just wow. Such a beautiful experience. Great guides. So much to see and immerse yourself in the culture. Kinda far from Rome but… Sooooo worth it. I can’t remember the bus guide’s name but super cool. Would do it again, in a heart beat. -Alberto (see more reviews )

7. All-inclusive Rome to Pompeii by High Speed Train

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (235 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 9 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Why choose this tour? Experience the enchanting ancient city of Pompeii without the logistical hassles. This value-packed day trip offers a seamless high-speed train ride from Rome. Enjoy a skip-the-line guided tour of Pompeii, then unwind with a wine tasting and a farm-fresh lunch at a vineyard on Mt. Vesuvius’s slopes before returning to Rome.

The All-inclusive Rome to Pompeii with Wine Tasting and Lunch by High Speed Train includes:

• Priority Pompeii access with expert Archaeologist Guide
• High-speed train and A/C shuttle round-trip transport
• Enjoyable wine tasting and lunch, suitable for all ages
• Fast, convenient transport from Rome to Naples to Pompeii
• Line-free comprehensive Pompeii guided tour
• Winery visit with inclusive wine tasting
• Authentic Italian farm-to-table lunch

It was a perfect tour with Pompeii and the winery to relax after. The whole day was wonderful and very organized. We loved our tour guide, Antonio, who brought Pompeii to life for us. I would highly recommend this tour. -Kathleen_S (see more reviews )

Already in Pompeii? Discover the Best Guided Tours in Town

If you’ve decided to journey to Pompeii independently or find yourself already soaking up the local atmosphere, we wholeheartedly endorse embarking on a guided tour through the remarkable ruins of Pompeii.

With a knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll have the chance to delve deeper into the mysteries of this ancient city, enhancing your understanding and enriching your overall experience. These three excellent tours will guide you through Pompeii’s captivating UNESCO-listed ruins.

8. Pompeii Small Group Tour with an Archaeologist

Uncover the ancient ruins of Pompeii in this small-group tour. With skip-the-line tickets, you’ll dive right into exploring life before the catastrophic Mount Vesuvius volcanic eruption in AD 79. Led by an archaeologist, visit significant sites such as the Basilica, Forum, thermal baths, and residential homes. Tours are available in several languages.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (2,357 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 2 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : German, English, Italian, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

9. Skip-the-line Small-Group Pompeii Tour with a Local Archaeology Expert Guide

Discover the enchanting city of Pompeii on this guided tour. Explore ancient streets and ruins, including the forum, public baths, and residences. Learn about the devastating Mount Vesuvius eruption from an expert guide, offering insights into this timeless city.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (311 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 2 hours 30 minutes 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

10. Pompeii and Herculaneum Small Group Tour with an Archaeologist

Venture into the compelling Roman archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an archaeologist guide. Understand the intricate history and architecture of these cities buried by Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79. The tour includes assistance in transit between sites and admission tickets, making your exploration hassle-free.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (296 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 6 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Diving Deeper: More Excellent Pompeii Guided Tours

While the above are our top picks, many noteworthy Pompeii tours cater to a variety of needs and starting points. Whether you’re journeying from Naples or other cities or simply seeking a unique experience, these additional options ensure every traveler can find a tour that resonates with them. Explore these compelling alternatives – they might just surprise you!

11. Pompeii Half-day Trip from Naples

Starting from Naples, this tour takes you on a fascinating exploration of the archaeological site of Pompeii. With fast-track entry and a knowledgeable guide , you’ll walk through Pompeii’s historical relics, including its piazza, thermal baths, and the fresco-covered walls of Vetti’s House, providing a haunting glimpse into the lives of the city’s ancient inhabitants.

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (1,039 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 4 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

12. From Naples: Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Tour with Ticket and Lunch

Experience Italy’s captivating history and breathtaking scenery on one of the best day tours trip from Naples . You’ll explore the UNESCO-protected ruins of Pompeii, learn about the history of ancient Rome, and admire the beautiful Amalfi Coast and picturesque town of Positano. The tour includes a delicious Italian lunch and round-trip transport from Naples.

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (838 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 8 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

13. Skip The Line Pompeii Guided Tour & Mount Vesuvius from Sorrento

This private day trip from Sorrento combines a visit to the UNESCO-protected ruins of Pompeii with a hike up to Mt. Vesuvius’s crater. Take a relaxed tour through the ancient city of Pompeii and marvel at the Temple of Jupiter and ancient markets. Then, undertake a short hike to the volcano’s rim, where you’ll meet a mountain guide and get a glimpse into the crater while learning about the historic AD 79 eruption. Round-trip transportation is included.

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (517 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 8 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

14. Small Group Guided Tour of Pompeii Top Highlights Led by an Archaeologist

This guided walking tour showcases the wonders of Pompeii, one of the most captivating archaeological sites worldwide. An archaeology and art history expert leads the tour, highlighting the ancient Roman city’s key locations like the gymnasium, theaters, restaurants, shops, baths, brothel, Forum, and the House of Menander.

The tour provides a comprehensive Pompeii experience , avoiding long wait times with skip-the-line tickets, and offers a convenient, small-group exploration.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (362 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 2 hours 30 minutes 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

15. Pompeii, Horses & Wine

This unique experience combines a guided tour of Pompeii’s ruins, a wine-tasting lunch, and a horseback ride through Mt. Vesuvius National Park. It allows participants to delve into ancient Roman history, sample wines from the volcanic slopes, and explore the stunning countryside from over 1,600 feet above sea level. This full-day trip includes round-trip transportation from Pompeii to Mt. Vesuvius and the guidance of an archaeologist for Pompeii’s exploration.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (232 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 7 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

16. Pompeii Private Tour with an Archaeologist and Skip The Line

This private tour, led by an archaeologist , unravels Pompeii’s secrets and mysteries, sharing unique details not found in books or online. It includes skip-the-line entry, allowing more time to explore. Post-tour, you can remain on-site until closing, further discovering Pompeii’s beauties with the private guide’s advice.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (213 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 2 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

17. Skip the line Pompeii Guided Tour from Sorrento

This Sorrento-based tour provides an insightful exploration of the UNESCO-listed Pompeii, where an expert guide showcases remarkably preserved Roman city ruins, including houses, baths, and frescoes, all conserved by volcanic ash.

The tour covers Pompeii’s history, its eruption catastrophe, and the civilization that once prospered here. It includes round-trip bus transportation.

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (216 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 5 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

18. Pompeii and Capri Island Day Trip

This day trip from Naples merges the region’s key attractions: the historical excavation of Pompeii and the picturesque island of Capri . It includes a priority access two-hour Pompeii walking tour and a hydrofoil boat trip to Capri , coupled with a guided tour of the island and leisure time for shopping or café relaxation. One of the best ways to discover Pompeii and Capri for cruise passengers, this day trip provides a comprehensive Campania experience with round-trip transportation.

⭐ RATING : 5.0 out of 5 Stars (215 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 8 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, Italian, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

19. Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii Day Trip from Naples All Inclusive

Experience Europe’s active volcano on this day trip from Naples, exploring UNESCO-listed Pompeii and hiking up Mt Vesuvius . A local guide elucidates Pompeii’s ancient remnants, and a communal Italian pizza lunch fosters camaraderie. The day concludes with a hike to the volcano’s summit, featuring staggering views of the Bay of Naples and a peek into the crater.

⭐ RATING : 4 out of 5 Stars (215 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 7 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

20. Day Trip to Pompeii Ruins & Mt. Vesuvius from Naples

On this day trip from Naples, explore Pompeii’s ruins and Mt. Vesuvius with a pre-arranged itinerary for convenience. Discover Pompeii’s past, frozen in time by Vesuvius’ volcanic ash, then venture up the volcano. Enjoy crater exploration before returning to Sorrento, traveling in an air-conditioned coach, visiting ancient Roman baths, and learning about the devastating eruption.

⭐ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (155 Reviews) ⌛ TOUR LENGTH : 8 hours 📢 LIVE TOUR GUIDE : English, French, Spanish 👉 BOOK THIS TOUR

Embarking on the Journey: How to Get from Rome to Pompeii

No need to stress about navigating your way from Rome to Pompeii. Pompeii sits approximately 150 miles south of Rome, equating to a drive of 2.5-3 hours, mostly via the “Autostrada del Sole” (highway of the sun). But let’s explore your options.

On the Road: Bus Tours to Pompeii

Bus tours offer a comfortable and convenient way to journey from Rome to Pompeii, with various options at your fingertips. These tours typically include a hotel pick-up service in Rome and a relaxing ride in an air-conditioned coach to the entrance of Pompeii’s archaeological area.

Following a guided tour of the ruins, you usually have time to grab a bite before heading back to Rome, often via the vibrant city of Naples.

The Scenic Route: From Rome to Pompeii by Train

If you’re up for some adventure, consider buying train tickets and taking a train ride from Rome to Pompeii . Kickstart your journey at the Rome Termini station with high-speed trains to Naples Centrale (Naples central station). From there, the local train whisks you off to Pompeii, conveniently dropping you off at the Villa dei Misteri entrance to the archaeological park.

Your Questions Answered: Pompeii Tour FAQs

Is a one-day trip to Pompeii from Rome worth it?

Pompeii is a must-do day trip if you’re in Rome for more than a couple of days. Pompeii’s extraordinary ruins offer a unique slice of history that makes the journey from Rome utterly worthwhile. Many private tours from Rome to Pompeii are available, providing a delightful, hassle-free experience.

Suggested Read : One Day in Rome: The Eternal City’s Essential Itinerary

What’s the best way to visit Pompeii from Rome?

Opting for a guided private tour from Rome to Pompeii is the way to go. It ensures stress-free travel and gives you the benefit of expert guidance from a licensed guide while exploring the ruins.

Your Rome to Pompeii Journey: Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, a trip from Rome to Pompeii is more than a simple geographic transition – it’s a thrilling journey through time. From the moment you board your chosen transport in Rome to the instance you set foot on Pompeii’s ancient cobblestones, each moment is a treasure.

Regardless of the tour you select, the magnificence of Pompeii, combined with the seamless arrangements for your journey from Rome, will undoubtedly gift you a trove of unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and enjoy your extraordinary journey through time!

Further Reading : Best Vespa Tours from Florence: Discover Tuscany’s Beauty

Similar Posts

Revealed: 10 Best Restaurants in Positano

You’ll Feel Like a True VIP at These ‘White Lotus’ Filming Locations in Italy

Visit Perugia in One Day: Experience the Heart of Umbria

Renting a Car in Italy: Here’s What You Need to Know

What To See in Bologna: Top 10 Bologna Attractions

Wine Tours from Bologna: Elevate Your Tasting Experience

Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Volcano Day Trip from Rome with Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Lunch

GetYourGuide Awards: Top 25 Fun Choice Award – Worldwide

GetYourGuide Awards: Top 25 Group Tour Award – Worldwide

Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award: Top 10 Day Trips – Worldwide

Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award: Top 10 Experiences – Italy

• Visit the ruins of  Pompeii  and the  Mt Vesuvius volcano  that destroyed it with our Rome to Pompeii day trip. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site on a one-day return trip from Rome in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and with a dedicated tour leader.
• Skip-the-Line entry  to the ruins of Pompeii , the city frozen in time, with a local expert archaeologist guide who will bring history to life. Take the opportunity to enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Naples from the top of Mt. Vesuvius.
• Enjoy an all-inclusive lunch at a Naples bay-view restaurant, relishing a traditional pizza with an appetizer and dessert, enhancing your day with a taste of authentic Italian cuisine.
• From April to Early November hike to the top of the Vesuvius Volcano to see the Bay of Naples. Alternatively  choose a naturalistic and informative walk led by an expert geologist as you explore the captivating area of Mt. Vesuvius.
• From early-November to March when Vesuvius is closed, your exploration of Pompei will be combined with a panoramic bus tour along the Amalfi Coast to visit Positano .

Relaxing Day Trip from Rome to Pompeii

What's included.

• English-speaking tour leader for the day
• Official, licensed, English-speaking guide in Pompeii
• 3-course lunch at authentic Naples Restaurant
• Hike atop Mt. Vesuvius (If Option Selected)
• Scenic Walking Tour of Mt. Vesuvius area with Geologist (If Option Selected)
• Round-trip transport from Rome in a private, air-conditioned coach
• Ticket and reservation fees for Pompeii
• Free time in Positano (early-November to March)
• Entry ticket to Mt. Vesuvius national park (April to early-November)
• Audio headsets so you can always hear your guide

Sites Visited

• Ruins of Pompeii
• Town of Positano (early-November to March)
• Mt. Vesuvius Volcano and "Great Crater" (April to early-November)
• Authentic Naples Restaurant

No trip to Italy is complete without seeing what the archeological city of Pompeii reveals about ancient life. However, few can fit it in without transport. Our relaxing day trip to Pompeii from Rome will take you on a climate-controlled bus on the Highway of the Sun to discover the south of Italy.

Skip the Lines into the historic city of Pompeii

From start to finish you’ll have an English-speaking tour leader with you who is an expert in this region of Italy. In this acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site, your Tour Leaders will deal with the lines and the entrance tickets while you take in your first view of the half-buried city encased in rubble and ash.

After skipping the lines you’ll meet your own personal archaeologist. They’ll guide you along the paved streets that have been preserved for 1500 years under 20ft of volcanic ash. Unlike a museum, you’ll be able to enter the homes, baths, food stores and outdoor theaters which have preserved so much of ancient life.

All-Inclusive Lunch with views of Naples

Our acclaimed tour now includes an exceptional lunch experience at an authentic Italian restaurant boasting panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Indulge in a delightful all-inclusive meal featuring traditional pizza, an appetizer, and dessert, providing a taste of authentic Italian cuisine. You’ll get the chance to recharge for the journey to Vesuvius that’s ahead.

Hike Mt. Vesuvius, Explore with a Geologist or enjoy Positano

After Pompeii, the coach will carry you up the slope of Mt. Vesuvius (from April to early-November), one of the few active volcanoes in Europe. Opt for the first hiking option, a short walk to the steaming crater, where breathtaking views of Capri and Sorrento await.

Alternatively, for those intrigued by geology or seeking a less challenging hike, our second option introduces you to a knowledgeable geologist guide. They'll lead you on an informative exploration, providing insights into the geological wonders of the area, making it an ideal choice for those interested in the subject or desiring a more moderate trek on Vesuvius.

Mt. Vesuvius is closed during the winter so your coach will follow the coastline to Positano (from early-November to March). Here you will enjoy some lovely free time, and it’s up to you how you spend that time. Whether you want to relax on the stunning beaches, tiptoe through winding streets, shop for local souvenirs… the opportunities are endless.

Whatever time of the year you come to Italy, make sure you do not miss out on our full range of Pompeii Tours .

Thousands of 5-Star Reviews

Tripadvisor, know before you go, meeting point.

Piazza del Popolo - Open in Google Maps

Important Notes

• From early November to March the Vesuvius isn't accessible and it is replaced with Positano. Also during summer months in rare cases of inclement weather or strikes, the crater of Vesuvius may be closed to visitors, therefore, if this is the case, it is replaced with a visit to Positano where you will get free time to explore the city.
• Please be advised that in the case of events beyond our control, we may need to adjust our itinerary to ensure the safety, quality, and satisfaction of your travel experience.
• While our day trips are typically of a fixed duration, external factors may occasionally extend tour times slightly. We appreciate your understanding and planning as we strive to provide you with the best possible experience.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

We strongly advise against arriving at the meeting point without a booking as we cannot guarantee that there will be space left on the tour. Our guides are unable to accept payment for tours so any bookings made on the spot will still need to be processed over the phone with payment by credit card.

Yes, you can. However, you will be responsible for organising your own transport back to Naples.

A booking cannot be amended with less than 24 hours notice. Amendments made before this window are possible, but may incur a charge. Any bookings made within the 24 hour window are final and cannot be amended or subject to compensation.  This policy is valid across most of our tours, but is subject to some exceptions. In the case of a tour not being in line with this 24-hour amendment policy, you will find this information in the "Know Before You Go" section of the specific tour page. Tours cannot be amended/canceled with less than 24 hours notice. We are unable to provide compensation for cancelations with the 24 hour window prior to your tour departure, nor can tour dates or times be amended. Bookings made with the 24 hour window are final.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

You Might Also Like...

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica Small Group Tour

Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour with Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

The Original Crypts, Catacombs & Roman Undergrounds Tour with Transfers

Pompeii tours, get to know city wonders.

A City Wonders tour is the product of meticulous research, detailed planning, and a passion for providing customers with travel experiences they will cherish forever.

With City Wonders it's not just facts, our passionate guides tell you the stories that bring the sights to life.

• All of our guides are experts in their field
• We only hire fluent English-speakers so nothing is ever lost in translation
• We focus on the little details and anecdotes that make City Wonders so special

Recommended Rome Posts

The Man in Seat 61

How to book a day trip

From rome to pompeii.

• Buy train tickets
• Buy ferry tickets
• Book a hotel
• Privacy & cookies
•   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, rome or florence to pompeii.

It's one of Italy's most amazing attractions.  An entire Roman town, buried under ash and lava by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD then excavated so you can wander around.  If you get the chance to go, take it.  It's just south of Naples, but can be done as an easy day trip from Rome by high-speed train, or even (if you're keen) from Florence.  This page will tell you how, inexpensively & independently, no tour necessary.  By travelling on a 186mph high-speed train, not by 50 mph tour bus it maximises your time at Pompeii, and you can explore the ruins at your own pace for as long or as short a time as you like.

Step 1, take a high-speed train to Naples

Every half-hour or so, high-speed trains link Rome Termini with Naples Centrale in just 70 minutes.  Trains run from Florence SMN to Naples Centrale every hour taking 2h52.

Rome to Naples starts at €19.90 each way if you book in advance and commit to a specific train.

You can buy on the day, but you then pay the 'base' fare, around €44 each way.  Reservation is required, but there are almost always places available even just before departure as there are so many seats on so many trains.

Buy tickets at www.italiarail.com (easy to use with English-language place names, prices in € or £ or $) or www.trenitalia.com (you'll need to use Italian place names, prices in €).  Italiarail charges a €3.50 booking fee, but this will be refunded if you email them afterwards at [email protected] .

Most trains are high-speed Frecciarossas with a choice of 4 classes explained here .

Step 2, take the Circumvesuviana Railway to Pompeii

At Naples Centrale , step off the high-speed train from Rome and follow the signs downstairs to the Circumvesuviana station, located underneath the mainline station.  The Circumvesuviana station is called Napoli Piazza Garibaldi , but it's co-located with Napoli Centrale .

The video below will show you exactly how to walk from Naples Centrale downstairs to Naples Piazza Garibaldi Circumvesuviana station .

Circumvesuviana electric trains run from Naples Piazza Garibaldi station to Pompeii Scavi - Villa Dei Misteri every 30 minutes, journey time 36 minutes, fare around €3.20 each way. 

No prior booking is necessary or possible - think New York Subway - just turn up, buy a ticket at the Circumvesuviana ticket office or use the ticket gate that allows you to touch in with a contactless bank card, go through the automatic ticket gates onto the platform and hop on the next train.  The final destination of the Circumvesuviana train is Sorrento.

The Circumvesuviana Railway website is www.eavsrl.it .  The Circumvesuviana station co-located with the mainline Napoli Centrale is called Napoli Garibaldi.

Don't confuse Pompeii Scavi (Villa di Misteri) with the other Pompeii station on another Circumvesuviana route, or Trenitalia's mainline Pompeii station which serves the new town.

Step 3, cross the road to the ruins of Pompeii

Walk out of Pompeii Scavi - Villa Dei Misteri station, the main entrance to the ruins is across the road a 100m to your right.  It's that easy! 

You can see the station and ruins entrance on this map - the entrance is marked Scavi di Pompei .

The ruins are open every day of the year, usually 09:00-19:30 April-October, 09:00-17:00 November-March, but check opening times and entrance fee at www.pompeiisites.org or www.pompeionline.net .

Allow more time than you think you need.  I can easily spend all day there, there's lots to see.

Direct Rome-Pompeii train on Summer Sundays

In 2023, Trenitalia ran a direct Frecciarossa 1000 high-speed train from Rome to Pompei every Sunday from 23 July to 8 October 2023.  But only on Sundays!  Check times and dates for 2024 online.

It leaves Rome Termini at 08:53 arriving Pompei at 10:40. The train arrives at the Trenitalia's Pompei station, not the Circumvesuviana one, from where it's an 800m 11-minute walk to the Piazza Immacolata entrance to the ruins of Pompeii, see walking map .

The return train leaves Pompei (Trenitalia station) at 18:40, arriving Rome Termini at 20:55.  But remember, only on summer Sundays!

Tips & suggestions

If you want to keep your return time flexible , pre-book a cheap Super-Economy ticket from Rome to Naples one-way, then buy a ticket from Naples to Rome from the self-service ticket machines at Naples Centrale at the Base price when you are ready to go back.  The high-speed trains require reservation so can in theory sell out, but there are so many seats & trains, even if one train is full, there will be almost always be seats on a later one.  In fact, there are also regional trains from Naples to Rome which don't have reservations and cannot sell out so you'd never be stranded even in the highly unlikely event that all the many high-speed trains were fully-booked.

Alternative Italo trains.   There are also competing Italo trains between Rome and Naples, these excellent trains can be booked direct with Italo at www.italotreno.it .  Here's my view of how Trenitalia & Italo compare - But why not try State-owned Trenitalia one way and privately-owned Italo the other and see for yourself?

Florence to Pompeii is a long day trip, but perfectly do-able if you're keen to see Pompeii - and you should be!  Florence to Naples takes around 2h52 by high-speed train from €29.90 each way, plus the 36 minutes on the Circumvesuviana to Pompeii.

Sorrento to Pompeii:   Sorrento is at the end of the Circumvesuviana Railway, so you can travel direct from Sorrento to Pompeii Scavi - Villa Dei Misteri every 30 minutes for just a few euros.  Fares and timetable (if you really need a timetable) at www.eavsrl.it .

Herculaneum also has excavated ruins dating from the same eruption in 79AD.  Ecolano is the station for this, on the same Circumvesuviana line from Naples to Pompeii and Sorrento.

Luggage storage in Pompeii:   There is a left luggage office upstairs in Pompeii Scavi - Villa di Misteri station, operated by a tour company.  The price is around €5 per item, it's open until 19:00.  Feedback would be appreciated .  The cafe at the station may also store luggage for you, for the same price.

To visit the summit of Vesuvius , a regular bus service runs from Pompeii, operated by EAVBUS, see www.unicocampania.it/turisti#vesuvio (Italian only), you can find the bus timetable at www.eavsrl.it/web/node/498826 (scroll down & search the list for Pompei-Vesuvio ).  Please let me know if these links stop working.  However, for a day trip I'd just stick to visiting the ruins of Pompeii.  Trying to get up Vesuvius would leave you too little time to properly see the ruins.

A visit to Pompeii in pictures

Video guide :   how to change trains at naples centrale onto the circumvesuviana.

This video shows you exactly how to walk from the mainline concourse at Naples Centrale down to the Circumvesuviana Railway platforms for the local trains to Pompeii & Sorrento.

Back to top

Back to home page

• Rome Attractions
• Antiquarium
• Pompeii Brothels
• Herculaeum Ruins

Plan Your Visit

• Skip the Line Tours

Guided Tours

• Restaurants
• Rome to Pompeii Day Trips
• Things To Do
• Pompeii Day Trips
• Pompeii from Rome & Naples
• Herculaneum Tickets
• Royal Palace of Naples
• Museo Di Capodimonte
• Mount Vesuvius
• Villa Pignatelli
• Naples National Archaeological Museum
• Certosa di San Martino
• Catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples Tickets
• Città della Scienza
• Bourbon Tunnel
• Naples Underground
• Maradona Tours
• Artecard Naples City Pass
• Veiled Christ
• Alibus Airport Transfers
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises

Book Rome to Pompeii day trips

Top things to do in Rome

The ruins of Pompeii have long held the fascination of archaeologists, explorers, scientists and historians. Once a bustling town like any other, Pompeii was brimming with art, architecture, and civilian life. Tragedy struck when in 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, almost instantly flattening the entire city under a blanket of pumice, stone and other volcanic ash and debris. 

When excavations began between the 18th and 19th centuries, explorers were captivated with what they found; beneath all the ash and stone, lay a town perfectly preserved in its ruins. Today, these Pompeii ruins have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, attracting millions of visitors each year. If you’re looking for a unique opportunity to discover well-kept secrets, take a day trip from Rome to Pompeii and prepare for an experience unlike any other.

Why Take a Day Trip To Pompeii from Rome?

• Close to Rome: The historical city of Pompeii lies only 2 hours away from Rome.
• Return Transfers: Depending on the ticket you choose, you’ll be picked up from either your hotel or a common meeting point. An air-conditioned coach will pick and drop you back once the tour has been completed.
• Guided Tour: Throughout your day trip, a local tour guide, fluent in several languages like English, Italian, Spanish and French, will accompany you along the way and enlighten you with their knowledge about the different Italian regions you’ll cover.
• Perfect day trip destination from Rome: A day trip from Rome gives you enough time to explore the protected ruins of Pompeii, including theaters, squares, and temples.

All Your Rome to Pompeii Day Trip Options Explained

Day Tours with Priority Access

Duration: 12 hours

• Get a 12-hour guided tour in your preferred language to the ancient city of Pompeii.
• You'll get priority access tickets to the timeless Pompeii excavations.
• With this ticket, you can get round-trip transportation from Rome to Pompeii.
• The journey begins in front of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri church (Viale Luigi Einaudi).

Day Tours With Transfers

Duration: 13 hours

• Get a comfortable ride with a small group of tourists from Rome to Pompeii.
• You can learn about the history of Pompeii and Italy from your tour guide.
• 'The tickets come with a round trip transport from Rome.

Duration: 2-3 hours

• With skip-the-line guided tours to Pompeii, you can avoid long queues and quickly enter the attraction.
• An expert history guide will walk you through the history of Pompeii.
• You'll also get a two-hour walking tour of the attraction.
• You can choose the language of your guided tour and learn about the lives of the people of Pompeii.

Mount Vesuvius Tour

Duration: 11-13 hours

• Get a fascinating visit to Mount Vesuvius, the world's most dangerous volcano.
• Enjoy round-trip transfers from Rome to Pompeii on an air-conditioned bus.
• You'll enjoy a tour of Mount Vesuvius in groups of up to 24 hours and learn the history of the mountain.

Combo Tours

• Rome to Pompeii tours also include combo tours that allow you to visit prominent Italian regions like the Amalfi Coast or the city of Naples.
• A tour guide will accompany you around and inform you about their history and significance, while you take in popular sights and try authentic Italian cuisine.

What to Expect on a Rome to Pompeii Day Trip?

Depending on the type of ticket you book, your Rome to Pompeii Day Trip may last between 2-13 hours. If you're booking a guided or transfer tour, you'll be escorted from Rome to the entrance of Pompeii.

From there, you'll get a guided tour of the ruins of Pompeii and learn about the history of the location. An audio guide may also be provided in the language of your choice, ensuring a better experience.

Plan Your Rome To Pompeii Day Trip

Are transfers included in Rome Pompeii day trips? Yes. Transfers are included in your Rome Pompeii day trips. You'll be picked up from Rome and dropped at the entrance of Pompeii.

How long does it take to travel from Rome to Pompeii? It takes less than three hours to travel from Rome to Pompeii.

What are the best ways to get to Pompeii from Rome? You can visit Pompeii on a day trip from Rome via bus, train, or car. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned coach during your Rome to Pompeii tour if you book a ticket that includes return transfers.

• House of the Cryptoporticus: One of the larger houses in Pompeii excavated under Vittorio Spinazzola and Amedeo Maiuri.
• Teatro Grande: A horseshoe-shaped Roman theater protected by Mount Vesuvius' volcanic eruption.
• House of the Faun: A grand Hellenistic palace constructed in the 2nd century in Pompeii.
• Porta Vesuvio: Pompeii's popular necropolis housing the tomb of Arellia Tertulia.
• Basilica: 2nd-century administrative center of Pompeii.

• Ensure you have a valid ticket to enter the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.
• Follow the rules of decorum and report security problems to the staff.
• Avoid touching objects, frescoes, and furniture in Pompeii.
• Use the designated eating areas for refreshments.
• Professional optical and audio equipment is prohibited.
• Big dogs cannot enter Pompeii.

Frequently Answered Questions About Pompeii Day Trips

Yes. Rome to Pompeii day trips are available right now. Click here to check your ticket options.

A guided tour to Pompeii, round-trip transfers to Rome, and audio guides are included in your Rome to Pompeii day trips.

Depending on your ticket type, your Rome to Pompeii day trip may last between 2-13 hours.

Depending on your ticket type, you can cancel your Rome to Pompeii day trip tickets 9-24 hours before the experience begins.

Depending on the type of ticket you choose, return transfers may be included in your Rome to Pompeii day trip.

Yes. All tickets to Pompeii are day trip options from Rome.

Yes. Your Rome to Pompeii day trip tickets include free entry to Pompeii.

No. Only return-trip transfer tickets include Rome to Pompeii return transfers.

No. A tour of Mount Vesuvius isn't necessarily included in your Rome to Pompeii day trip tickets. You must book a guided tour of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius to visit Mount Vesuvius.

You have the freedom to decide whether you want to join a tour or explore on your own with your Rome to Pompeii day trip tickets.

Here's how to hike Italy's postcard-perfect Amalfi Coast — with a guide

A long Italy's Amalfi Coast , the mountains don't just meet the Tyrrhenian Sea , they jut right out of it. Everything here is vertical: the cliffs, towns and trails. Wherever you are, you have a view that's pure postcard.

“Wait until you see what's around this bend,” our Italian guide, Renato, said excitedly as we trekked up a steep trail on our five-day hiking tour.

We rounded the bend, expecting to see another breathtaking panorama of limestone bluffs and cobalt waters. Our view was something else entirely. Menacing black rain clouds were headed straight for us as if they had a personal vendetta. 

Our merry band of six had signed up to explore the coast with Exodus Travels, a British company that specializes in making you feel like a character in an adventure novel. Hiking is the perfect way to see the coast — and part of the slow travel trend that encourages travelers to savor authentic experiences like they would a fine wine. Joining a small-group tour works well for solo travelers, too.

The Amalfi Coast is 34 miles of beckoning beaches, charming villages that promise romance, a few bustling tourist traps and a labyrinth of trails less-traveled. Until now, our days had brimmed with sunshine and lemon groves, wildflowers and those killer views.

But it's the unexpected moments that etch themselves into memory. Caught in the rain, we found ourselves ducking into a shepherd's cottage for shelter. Antonio, a jovial fourth-generation shepherd, operates a remote shelter along the famous Path of the Gods. The well-maintained trail, which takes its name from Homer's "The Odyssey," offers 4½  miles of hiking nirvana overlooking Positano and the Isle of Capri.

Renato had made arrangements for us to have lunch at Antonio's, and the timing couldn't have been more perfect. As the sky opened up, we packed into the little hut, crowding around a rustic table laden with bread, fruit, cheese, prosciutto and lemon cake. Farm tools and copper pots hung from the walls. Lining the shelves were enough jugs of olive oil and jars of home-canned tomatoes to survive the apocalypse. 

As more hikers dodging the rain packed into the room, Antonio turned the gathering into a full-blown party.

Handmade instruments appeared out of thin air, Antonio pantomimed instructions, grabbed his tambourine, and suddenly we were all amateur musicians in a Tarantella folk band. One hiker wielded a hefty wooden clapper, another played the putipù drum. The room filled with claps, stomps and joyous laughter. When Antonio learned where we were from, he would belt out "Texas!" as he sang. Italians know how to have fun. 

We were almost sad to see the rain stop, but there were more amazing views to be seen along the trail.

We made our trip in late April, which offered perfect hiking temperatures. It was still jacket weather for the most part; the beaches, with their signature umbrellas, had not yet opened for the season. 

A springtime visit has its perks. As we hiked through the terraced lemon groves between the villages of Maiori and Minori, the trees were heavy with fruit, some still in bloom, their scent enveloping us like a heavenly perfume. Amalfi lemons, prized for their sweetness and size, are so good you can eat them whole, peel and all.

On the path, we met a lemon farmer on his way to tend his trees, breakfast roll in one hand and walking stick the other. He was surprised to see us delighting in a trek he makes daily. It's hard on the knees for an old-timer, he told Renato.

Wildflowers lined the trails with color — red valerian, yellow broom, giant green ferral, white and pink cistus. A passing gentleman introduced us to the Italian name for calla lilies: "donna in camicia," meaning woman in shirt. He was carrying a bouquet up to a Virgin Mary shrine near Albori, a village tucked into the hillside.

Each day, we hiked about five hours, traveling from one charming village to the next, with a welcome break for lunch. Our favorite spot along the trails was an agriturismo restaurant, Il Cavaliere dei Conti , an 1880 farmhouse near Albori. The food was fresh from the farm, with homemade pasta and perfect Neapolitan pizza. 

The villages

Our tour included stops in Naples, Cetara, Albori, Vietri sul Mare, Minori, Amalfi, Bomerano, Positano and Capri — by van, foot or boat.

It's impossible to decide which village, or borgo, is the most beautiful. The twin towns of Amalfi and Atroni would get my vote in a beauty pageant. But Cetara may be the most authentic. The fishing village feels untouched by time.

The tower on the town's east end dates back to the 14th century, when the villagers were fighting off the Turks. But the most stunning building in Cetara is the church dedicated to St. Peter, a fisherman. Its green and yellow majolica tiled dome caps the view of the village.

Cetara is celebrated for its seafood, especially red tuna, or tonno rosso, and anchovies. At Casa Torrente al Convento, chef Pasqual personally welcomes diners to his trattoria, beautifully housed in a converted convent. His recommendation? Spaghetti alla colatura di alici, or pasta in anchovy sauce. When the chef served this local specialty to Anthony Bourdain, he gave it his blessing, which is practically culinary sainthood. "You who hate anchovies, be ready to think again," Bourdain declared in "World Travel: An Irreverent Guide." 

We spent two nights at the boutique Hotel Cetus , which clings to a cliff over the sea, offering stunning views from its balconies. It was a short walk down the road to the piazza, past beachfront hotels and patios draped in bougainvillea. From Cetara, we hiked through the village of Albori to Vietri sul Mare. Here, we did some shopping in the town, whose walkways are lined with ceramic shops. We found deals on linen and leather, too, before we remembered we had to lug it all home. 

Our three nights in Amalfi didn't disappoint either. While the Hotel Marina Riviera rooms didn't offer balcony views, the dining room terrace could make anyone a morning person. We lingered over coffee and cake from the hotel breakfast smorgasbord before we hit the trail. In the evening, we wandered through the piazza with a gelato . Pistachio or Nutella? Decisions, decisions. 

The history

We began and ended our trip with immersive history lessons. 

Our first experience was a day in Naples, touring Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, the once-bustling city that the volcano destroyed when it erupted in 79 A.D. Our volcanologist guide took us up and around the active volcano's impressive crater, which emits an eerie sulfur fog. We hiked down a private path with panoramic views of Naples, its bay and the ancient remnants of Pompeii.

Next, we explored Pompeii. Once a bustling city of 20,000, now it's filled with tourists. When toxic gases and 80 feet of ash and debris rained down on the people of Pompeii, they had no time to escape. The city is much how they left it. Their opulent villas and detailed frescoes, as well as the Roman Forum, are remarkably preserved. 

We wrapped up our tour with a visit to the glamorous island of Capri via ferry. Sleek boats and megayachts vie for spots in the marina, while elegant boutiques line the piazzetta.

But we opted for one more hike. The walk up Monte Jovis might seem daunting, but the peek into the grounds of the luxe villas along the way made it worth every step. The path leads past gated gardens with wisteria-covered arbors and citrus-lined patios. And at the top, there's a castle.

Emperor Tiberius, Augustus’ adopted son, spent his twilight years in the extravagant fortress atop Capri. Villa Jovis, completed in 27 A.D., was his hideaway until he died in 37 A.D. Wandering its terraces, watchtower remnants and vast living quarters, it was clear Tiberius had an eye for real estate — though his aversion to Rome's political drama might’ve played a role in his choice of this secluded hideaway.

Next to the castle, Parc Astarita offered stunning views of the Li Galli Islets, the famed sirens’ haunt from Homer’s "Odyssey."

As our journey came to a close, we found ourselves reluctantly packing our bags with linens, ceramics and memories. The hiking tour had offered us more than just picturesque views and squisito food; it had given us a slice of Italian life. We left with our knees sore from the trails but our hearts full and already plotting our return.

After all, as Renato might say, the magic of the Amalfi Coast is always just around the next bend.