Craving an adventure back in time? For many travelers, a trip to Naples isn’t complete without visiting the haunting ruins of Pompeii. Imagine walking the stone-paved streets of a city frozen in time, engulfed by Mount Vesuvius’ infamous eruption in A.D. 79.
Good news, adventure-seekers: you’re closer than you think to this world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Here’s your handy snapshot of the various avenues threading Naples and Pompeii together. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a happy couple, or a band of explorers, there are numerous ways to trek the trail between these two iconic Italian spots.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Angelafoto. Image Location: Naples, Italy.
The best way to get from Naples to Pompeii: understanding your travel options
So, you could drive a rental car, enjoy the view from a bus, feel fancy in a taxi, or join a pack of keen history buffs on a guided bus tour. And let’s not forget the classic choice — riding the rails.
Fancy a road trip? Hit the highway A3 in your rental car, zooming straight to Pompeii Ovest exit, where parking spots await near the ancient city’s gates. But remember, steering through Naples requires some deft navigation skills.
Perched near Naples’ marina? A bus might beckon! The SITA line could be your chariot, with departures every 30 min from the crack of dawn. While it’s cozy and scenic, keep in mind: that not every bus stops at Pompeii, and peak times mean you’re sharing your ride with locals and tourists alike.
Craving comfort? A taxi could tempt, but brace your wallet — drivers demand a round-trip fare, even for a one-way journey. Prices can swirl around $75-95.
If planning isn’t your jam, jump onto a guided bus tour. It’s an all-in-one deal — transport, trivia, and tickets to Pompeii. But, independent spirits, beware: you’re on tour time now, with just a few hours to soak up thousands of years of history.
Why trains trump all: it’s a smooth operator, blending speed, scenery, and social vibes. It’s a slice of real Italy, plus eco-friendly to boot. You’re not stuck in traffic or watching the world whisk by from a bus. You’re on track (literally) to adventure, with time to spare for spontaneous detours or divine Italian gelato.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Sebastian Condrea. Image Location: Pompeii, Italy.
How to get from Naples to Pompeii by train
From the local charm of the Circumvesuviana to the plush pleasure of the Campania Express, trains transform your trip into a journey. So, why not grab that ticket to ride?
Pro tip: booking your train tickets via Trainline makes the process a breeze. It’s quick, it’s easy, and you’ll be all set for your journey in no time.
EAV Circumvesuviana — the local’s choice
- Departure station: start at Napoli Centrale station and follow the blue “Circumvesuviana” signs. You’ll be guided downstairs and along a walkway to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi station within the same complex. It’s just a 5-min walk. There, find the ticket kiosks and buy a ticket for the Sorrento line, specifically asking for “Pompei Scavi” (not “Pompei”). This route begins at Porta Nolana, but boarding at Piazza Garibaldi is more convenient.
- Price: about $3
- Duration: roughly 35 min
- Vibe: expect a vibrant, crowded atmosphere — you’re commuting, Napoli-style!
- Tickets: buy on the go, but brace yourself for potential queues.
- Heads-up: Keep an eye on your belongings; it’s bustling.
The Metropolitan line — comfort without the cost
- Departure station: Napoli Centrale or Napoli Piazza Garibaldi. They’re within the same complex, with Centrale being the main level and Piazza Garibaldi underground.
- Price: just under $4
- Duration: 37–50 min
- Vibe: standard comfort, less hustle
- Tickets: available in advance and bookable via Trainline for the planners among us
- Note: punctuality pays; these trains wait for no one!
Campania Express — travel in style
- Departure stations: Napoli Porta Nolana, Napoli Piazza Garibaldi, or Napoli Centrale. The choice depends on your proximity and preference for station amenities.
- Price: $15
- Duration: 35 min
- Vibe: quiet, comfy, with a hint of luxury
- Tickets: advance purchase through the Trainline app is your golden ticket here.
- Perk: It’s a cool haven during Italy’s scorching summers!
Image Credit: Getty Images, Andrea Pucci. Image Location: Pompeii, Italy.
All roads lead to Pompeii
After a scenic ride through the Italian landscape, you’ll arrive at your destination.
There are two train stations awaiting you.
If you get off at the Pompei station, courtesy of Trenitalia’s regional trains, gear up for a brisk 15 to 20-minute walk. As you approach the ruins, the official ticket booth beckons right near the main entrance, Porta Marina Superiore.
Alternatively, if Circumvesuviana’s Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station is your stop, you’re in luck! You’re a mere 5-minute stroll away from the site, with the ticket office handily placed en route.
Now, get ready to explore a Roman city that once thrived and buzzed with life. Walk the ancient streets, see the age-old frescoes, and feel the eerie chill that comes from standing in the remnants of history. The scale of preservation is astounding — from the remnants of the Forum to the haunting plaster casts of the volcano’s victims.
Making the most of your Pompeii day trip
After you’ve had your fill of exploring, why not indulge in some local flavors? The modern city of Pompeii is just around the corner, offering delicious Italian cuisine to satisfy your post-adventure cravings.
Pompeii’s culinary parade: where to nosh and nibble in style
☕️For the espresso enthusiasts: Amato Caffè
- What’s brewing: A hop, skip, and a jump from Pompeii’s central buzz, this café serves up an espresso shot stronger than Vesuvius. Refuel from your ruins roam or take a sweet pause in the afternoon.
- Nibble notable: Got a sweet tooth? Dive into their pastries. The pistachio-choco cornetto might just make you speak fluent Italian.
🍕Pizza paradise: Trammiere
- Dough lowdown: When in Pompeii, you have to pizza. Trammiere’s wood-fired wonders are a crust above the rest.
- Topping tip: Mix flavors, but maybe skip the pineapple.
🍝 Pasta on a penny: Na’ Pasta
- Dishy details: Helmed by authentic Neapolitan chefs, this gem’s pasta game is al dente divine. With most dishes around $7.50, you won’t burn a hole in your toga.
- Budgeteer’s tip: Don’t judge by the exterior; inside, it’s a pasta party!
🥬A gastronomic galaxy: Cosmo Restaurant Pompei
- Food philosophy: Harnessing nature’s elements, Cosmo whips up dishes that are Mother Earth’s own favorites. Veggies, rejoice! Their “Adventures in Vegetables” is a green dream.
- Review rave: Some say it’s Michelin in disguise.
🍤Seafood sensation: Garum Pompei - Ristorante - Enoteca
- Seafood scoop: Nestled near ancient alleys, this spot serves marine marvels fit for Poseidon. Plus, it’s close to the train, so you can end your day on a delectable note.
- Reservation reminder: It’s popular. Book ahead or swim in the sea of waitlisted diners.
🍦Gelato galore: Gioelia Cremeria
- Frozen facts: Post-Pompeii explorations, cool down with a cone from Gioelia. From traditional tastes to some quirky twirls, they’ve got your back.
- Creamy cue: Locals love it, tourists tout it, and the tiramisu? It’s the cherry on top.
As the sun dips behind the Italian horizon, you’re left with a heart full of history, a camera brimming with snaps, a belly comfortably content, and shoes with just a smidge of Pompeii dust. But isn’t that the hallmark of a day well-spent?
The return journey is also easy with the Trainline app. As the carriage gently rocks, you have time to gather your thoughts and plan your next Italian adventure.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Atlantide Phototravel. Image Location: Pompeii, Italy.