Rome Attractions
Pompeii is one of Italy’s most famous archaeological sites, and if you’re visiting Naples, a trip to these ancient ruins is a must.
Located just 24 kilometers (15 miles) away, Pompeii is easy to reach, whether you prefer train, bus, car, or a guided tour.
Each option has its own benefits—trains are affordable and fast, buses are budget-friendly, cars offer flexibility, and guided tours provide expert insights.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to travel from Naples to Pompeii, how long each option takes, and some useful tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Top Tickets
# Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour
# Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius with Lunch and Wine Tasting
# Private Tour from Naples
It’s highly recommended to book your Naples to Pompeii day tour tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Table of contents
How long does it take to reach Pompeii from Naples?
The journey from Naples to Pompeii is relatively quick and easy, but the travel time depends on the mode of transport you choose.
By train, the Circumvesuviana takes about 30 minutes, while the Campania Express is slightly faster.
Buses take between 30 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic, and driving by car can take 20 to 30 minutes via the A3 highway.
If you opt for a guided tour, travel times may vary based on pick-up locations and additional stops. Overall, reaching Pompeii from Naples typically takes under an hour, making it an ideal half-day or full-day trip.
Recommended
Day trips from Naples to Pompeii
If you’re planning a day trip from Naples to Pompeii, there are several great options to choose from.
The Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour offers a 7-hour guided experience through Pompeii’s famous landmarks, followed by a scenic hike up Mount Vesuvius, with an extended 8-hour version available for those wanting more time.
For a mix of history and Italian culture, the Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius with Lunch and Wine Tasting tour provides skip-the-line access to Pompeii, a guided tour of the ruins, a traditional Italian lunch, and a wine tasting at a local vineyard before ending with a hike up Mount Vesuvius.
If you’re short on time, the Pompeii Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets is a 4-hour experience that ensures a quick yet insightful visit to Pompeii, complete with expert guidance and round-trip transport from Naples.
For a more exclusive and flexible experience, the Private Tour from Naples takes you on an 8 to 9-hour personalized journey through Pompeii, Sorrento, and Positano, with door-to-door service and a customized itinerary.
Recommended
Naples to Pompeii by train
Taking the train from Naples to Pompeii is one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to reach the ancient ruins.
The Circumvesuviana train is the cheapest option, costing just €2.60 one way, with trains running every 30 minutes from Napoli Porta Nolana or Piazza Garibaldi stations.
It’s a local commuter train that can get crowded and lacks air conditioning, but it gets you to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station—just a 5-minute walk from the archaeological site.
For a more comfortable journey, the Campania Express offers guaranteed seats and air conditioning for €15 one way or €25 round trip.
While it runs less frequently, it’s a great option for tourists looking for a hassle-free ride. If you’re traveling from the Naples cruise port, you can easily reach Piazza Garibaldi station via Metro Line 1 for €1.30.
Note: Naples train stations can be hectic, so arriving early and keeping an eye on your belongings is advised.
Recommended
Naples to Pompeii by bus
Taking a bus from Naples to Pompeii is an affordable and convenient option, with multiple daily departures.
You can hop on the EAV line 001 from Piazza Garibaldi or the SITA bus line 5001 from the Naples SITA bus station, with tickets costing between €3 and €11 one way.
The journey typically takes 30 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic, and while buses run frequently, not all services stop at Pompeii, so it’s important to check your route in advance.
While buses are a budget-friendly way to travel, they can get crowded during peak hours, so be prepared for a packed ride, especially on public buses.
Departing from key locations like Naples Capodichino Airport Terminal and Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, buses provide an easy way to reach Pompeii without the hassle of driving.
Looking for a shuttle bus from Naples to Pompeii? This comfortable and hassle-free service takes you directly from Naples to the Pompeii ruins, making your trip easy and stress-free. With convenient departures, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Book your shuttle ticket now for a smooth journey!
Naples to Pompeii by car
Driving from Naples to Pompeii takes 20 to 30 minutes via the A3 highway, exiting at Pompei Ovest.
While driving offers flexibility, Naples traffic and one-way streets can be tricky, so using GPS is recommended. Get Directions
Parking near Pompeii costs €5–€7, or you can pre-book a €10 parking pass with your ticket. Car rentals are available from Hertz, Europcar, and Avis, but non-EU visitors need an international driving permit.
Taxis cost €40–€50 each way, and Uber fares are similar. Keep in mind that narrow roads and unpredictable drivers can make driving in Italy challenging.
Related: Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum on a single-day tour
Tips for visiting Pompeii from Naples
Visiting Pompeii from Naples can be an unforgettable experience, but a little planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth.
- Start early to avoid crowds and the midday heat, especially in summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the ancient streets are uneven and require a lot of walking.
- If you’re visiting during warmer months, carry water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there’s limited shade inside the ruins.
- Booking tickets in advance can help you skip long lines, and a guided tour is highly recommended for deeper insights into Pompeii’s history.
- If you’re taking public transport, keep an eye on your belongings, as trains and buses can get crowded.
- Plan for at least half a day to explore the key highlights, but if you want a more immersive experience, set aside four to five hours for your visit.
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