Rome Attractions
Sorrento, a town in Southern Italy, is a famous tourist attraction that can be reached easily from Pompei and vice versa.
The distance between Sorrento and Pompeii is 28 km (17 miles) and can be easily reached by using different modes of transport in 20 to 50 minutes.
Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Isle of Capri may all be explored from the Sorrentine Peninsula.
The Amalfi Drive runs along the cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea and connects Sorrento to Amalfi.
It is situated on the Sorrentine Peninsula near the southern terminus of the Circumvesuviana rail line, so taking a train from Sorrento is a good option while traveling to Pompeii.
Top Tickets
# Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip from Sorrento
# Pompeii Half-Day Tour from Sorrento
# Sorrento Skip-the-Line Pompeii Express Tour by TrainIt’s highly recommended to book your Sorrento 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.
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How long does it take to reach Pompeii from Sorrento?
Getting to Pompeii from Sorrento is easy and quick, with several transport options. The Circumvesuviana train is the most popular and takes about 30 minutes to reach Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri, the station right next to the ruins.
Trains run every 30 minutes, making it a hassle-free choice. For a more comfortable ride, the Campania Express has air-conditioned seats and fewer stops, with a similar travel time.
If you’re driving, the trip via the SS145 highway takes 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses are also available, but they can be slower due to road congestion.
Recommended
Best day trips & Guided tours to Pompeii from Sorrento
Planning a day trip to Pompeii from Sorrento? Whether you prefer a quick train ride, a guided bus tour, or a full-day adventure with Mount Vesuvius, there’s a perfect option for you.
Sorrento to Pompeii by Train Tour
For the fastest and most convenient journey, take a train from Sorrento to Pompeii. The Sorrento Skip-the-Line Pompeii Express Tour by Train allows you to skip the queues and explore the ruins stress-free. This tour includes round-trip train tickets and a guided tour of Pompeii’s key sights, making it an efficient and hassle-free experience.
Sorrento to Pompeii by bus tour
If you prefer a guided bus tour, several options include round-trip transportation and skip-the-line entry. The Half-Day Pompeii Tour from Sorrento offers a quick yet informative visit with an expert guide.
For a more immersive experience, the Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Tour from Sorrento lets you explore both the ancient ruins and the legendary volcano. If you’d like a meal included, the Pompeii & Vesuvius Guided Tour with Lunch provides a complete experience with delicious Italian cuisine.
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Sorrento to Pompeii by car or van tour
For a comfortable, small-group experience, a van or private car tour offers flexibility and convenience. The Full-Day Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour lets you explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day, making the most of your trip.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, the Pompeii & Wine Tasting Full-Day Tour combines history with a vineyard visit, offering wine tastings and breathtaking views.
Public Transportation
By train
The easiest and most budget-friendly way to reach Pompeii from Sorrento is by train. The Circumvesuviana train runs between Sorrento and Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri, the station closest to the archaeological site.
The journey takes around 30 minutes, with trains departing every 30 minutes from Sorrento’s main train station.
Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at the station. For a more comfortable experience, the Campania Express offers air-conditioned seating and fewer stops, making the ride smoother and less crowded.
Once you arrive at Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri, the entrance to the ruins is just a short walk away. Make sure to check train schedules in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the Circumvesuviana can get busy with commuters and tourists.
Recommended
By bus
Taking a bus from Sorrento to Pompeii is an affordable and straightforward option, especially for those who prefer a direct ride.
SITA buses operate regular services between Sorrento and Pompeii, departing from Sorrento’s main bus station at Piazza Giovanni Battista de Curtis.
The journey takes about 50 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic, and tickets cost around €3 to €5. Buses typically stop near Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri, providing easy access to the archaeological site.
While buses can be slower than trains due to road congestion, they are a good choice if you want to enjoy scenic coastal views along the way. It’s recommended to check schedules in advance, as buses may run less frequently than trains, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Related: Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum on a single-day tour
By car
If you prefer the flexibility to explore at your own pace, driving from Sorrento to Pompeii is a great option.
The journey takes around 40 to 50 minutes via the SS145 highway, depending on traffic. The route offers scenic coastal views, but be prepared for winding roads, especially near Sorrento.
Parking is available near the archaeological site, with several paid lots close to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri.
Renting a car in Sorrento is easy, with options available at local rental agencies. However, traffic can be heavy, particularly during peak tourist seasons, and Italian roads can be challenging for first-time visitors.
Using GPS or Google Maps for navigation is recommended. If you have extra time, having a car also allows you to visit nearby attractions like Mount Vesuvius or Naples on the same trip.
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Tips for a memorable visit
- Leave early to avoid crowds and the intense midday heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes since Pompeii’s ancient streets are uneven and require a lot of walking.
- Carry essentials like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as there’s little shade in the ruins.
- Consider a guided tour or audio guide to learn about Pompeii’s history and make your visit more engaging.
- Explore beyond the main sites—while the Forum and Villa of the Mysteries are popular, places like the House of the Vettii and Amphitheater are less crowded and equally fascinating.
- If you have extra time, combine your visit with a trip to Mount Vesuvius to see the volcano that buried Pompeii.
- Enjoy local food before heading back—try authentic Neapolitan pizza or fresh seafood at restaurants near the station.
- Check train schedules in advance to ensure you don’t miss the last train back to Sorrento.
