The Circumvesuviana is the most common and affordable way to reach Pompeii. This local commuter train runs between Naples and towns along the Vesuvian and Sorrento coasts.

• Departure: Lower level of Napoli Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi). Follow signs for “Circumvesuviana - EAV.”

• Travel time: ~30 minutes

• Stop: “Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri,” right across from the main entrance to the ruins

Pros

• Inexpensive (round-trip under €10)

• Runs every 30 minutes

• Direct access to the ruins

• Authentic local travel experience

Cons

• Crowded at peak times, no A/C or restrooms

• Cleanliness and maintenance not always great

• Occasional delays/cancellations

• Keep an eye on belongings

• Not wheelchair accessible

Train schedule from Naples to Pompeii

The Campania Express follows the same route as the Circumvesuviana but is designed for tourists. It offers air-conditioned cars, guaranteed seating, and fewer stops.

Why choose it?
Perfect for the summer months (June–September), when A/C makes all the difference. The main drawback is limited departure times, so you may have to wait for a return train.

Campania Express Naples - Pompeii

Trenitalia is Italy’s national rail operator. Its regional trains leave from the main level of Napoli Centrale and arrive at Pompei (Sanctuary), which is farther from the archaeological site. For the most convenient, door-to-ruins access, we recommend the EAV Circumvesuviana on the Naples–Sorrento line.

If you prefer door-to-door service, a taxi or a private driver (NCC) is the most convenient choice.

Pros

• Fast and private

• Flexible timing

• Stress-free

Cons

• Most expensive option (about €100 one-way)

• Traffic can slow you down

Joining a guided tour is one of the easiest ways to experience Pompeii. Many include skip-the-line tickets and expert guides who bring the ruins to life.

Pros

• All logistics handled for you

• Guided tour enhances the experience

• Comfortable transport included

Cons

More expensive than DIY travel

Book a tour from Naples to Pompeii

While driving is possible (exit at Pompei Ovest on the A3), we don’t suggest renting a car in Naples. Parking is available, but public transportation is far easier and less stressful.

• Book tickets online in advance: Capacity is limited, and tickets can sell out.

• Bring water and snacks: There’s just one refreshment point inside, and the site is huge.

• Wear sturdy shoes and a hat: You’ll walk on uneven cobblestones and dirt paths, with little shade in summer.

• Plan your route: Without a guide, map out an itinerary. Start from Porta Marina Inferiore, see the domus, Roman Forum, and end at Villa dei Misteri. For wheelchairs or strollers, use the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance with its accessible path.

Check out our suggested itineraries for 2, 4, or 7 hours inside the ruins

It’s possible to see both in a single day—Pompeii in the morning, Herculaneum in the afternoon—but we don’t recommend it unless you’re a hardcore archaeology fan. The sites are extensive, and you risk being overwhelmed. A better combo is Pompeii plus Mount Vesuvius, which is easily reached by bus from the ruins.

If you plan on spending an entire day exploring the archaeological park, you can pack a picnic lunch or grab a quick sandwich. Inside the ruins of Pompeii there is an Autogrill-branded snack bar and a number of picnic areas.

In you're planning a half-day visit (only the morning), you can stop for lunch just outside Pompeii at one of these restaurants:

• Hortus: This is a touristy spot located just outside the Pompei Villa dei Misteri entrance, but the food is good and the atmosphere friendly.

• La Caupona: This restaurant was inspired by ancient Rome both in the décor and menu. It may seem a little over the top upon first glance, but the menu has been created with care and research and is based on works left by Marcus Gavius Apicius, the most famous ancient Roman chef. If you're not inspired by the ancient dishes, there are also traditional recipes from southern Italy. We really enjoyed sampling selections from the ancient menu!