Pompeii Ancient City, Italy: Ruins, Tickets & How to Visit

23/10/2026

Pompeii is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. It was a busy Roman town near the Bay of Naples, in the south of Italy. In the year 79 AD, the volcano Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered the city with a thick layer of ash and stones. The town stayed hidden for almost 1,700 years. Excavations began in 1748, and they still continue today. Because the ash protected the buildings, visitors can walk on real Roman streets and see houses, shops, temples and paintings as they were almost 2,000 years ago. Together with Herculaneum and Oplontis, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to See

Start at the Forum, the main square of the city, with the Temple of Jupiter and a view of Vesuvius behind it. Walk along the old stone streets with high stepping stones and deep marks from cart wheels. Visit the House of the Faun, one of the largest private homes, and the Villa of the Mysteries, famous for its red wall paintings. You can also see public baths, bakeries with stone mills, street bars, and the Lupanar. In the east of the city stands the Amphitheatre, the oldest Roman amphitheatre that still exists. One of the most moving sights are the plaster casts of people who died during the eruption.

How to Get There and Practical Information

Pompeii is about 25 km south-east of Naples. The easiest way to get there is the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to the station Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri, which is next to the Porta Marina entrance. The trip takes about 35 minutes. The site is very large, so plan at least three or four hours and wear comfortable shoes. There is little shade, so bring water and a hat in summer. From April to October the park is open from 9:00 to 19:00, and from November to March from 9:00 to 17:00. The last entry is 90 minutes before closing. Many finds from Pompeii, such as mosaics and frescoes, are kept in the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.