15 Best Things To Do in Pompeii: Ancient Ruins Worth Exploring

Pompeii is unlike anything else you will experience in Italy—or anywhere in the world. This ancient Roman city was buried under volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE, preserving streets, temples, bakeries, and even bread baked the morning of the eruption. In this guide you’ll find the best things to do in Pompeii, practical tips for your visit, and everything you need to know before you go.

Pompeii has been on my bucket list since elementary school—the moment I learned about it, I was hooked. Visiting with Chris was everything I had imagined and more. He showed up purely because I wanted to go and was admittedly skeptical about spending an afternoon wandering Roman ruins. By the time we left, he was thoroughly impressed. Some places completely live up to the hype, and Pompeii is absolutely one of them.

Best Things To Do In Pompeii

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Ancient stone ruins and columns under a bright sky, perfect for a guide to things to do in Pompeii.
Sun, stone, and the thrill of walking through ancient history. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Walking through the entrance into Pompeii and seeing the ruins stretch out before us was simply awesome—and a genuine dream come true. Pompeii is an excellent stop that belongs on every Italy itinerary—and my tips for planning a trip to Italy will help you make the most of every destination on your list.

Pompeii fits naturally into a broader Southern Italy route—or even a wider European trip. If you’re still building that out, my Europe travel planning guide will help you connect the dots.

Chris was a little skeptical about spending an entire afternoon at Roman ruins—he was there because I wanted to go—but he was thoroughly impressed by the time we left. We visited on a free Sunday, the site was moderately busy, and I still managed to get some people-free photographs.

1. Artifacts in Pompeii

Rows of ancient clay urns and artifacts on shelves at the archaeological site of Pompeii, Italy.
Thousands of artifacts recovered from the ash, catalogued and preserved on site. Photo credit: Chris Kline/Just Wander More

As you make your way toward the Forums of Pompeii, you’ll pass one of the main storage areas where archaeologists have catalogued an impressive collection of clay urns, household items, tools, and everyday objects recovered from the ash.

The sheer volume of artifacts on display is a reminder that Pompeii wasn’t just a historical event—it was a living, breathing city. Excavations are ongoing, and new discoveries continue to surface regularly, making every visit a little different from the last.

2. The Antiquarium Museum

The Antiquarium is Pompeii’s on-site museum and one of the most rewarding stops on the entire visit. Originally built in 1874, it was closed for 36 years after sustaining damage from both World War II and a 1980 earthquake before finally reopening with a completely new layout in 2021.

The permanent exhibits trace the full history of Pompeii right up to the 79 CE eruption and include stunning frescoes from the House of the Golden Bracelet, the Moregine Silver Treasure, and the most recent plaster casts produced from excavations at the Civita Giuliana villa. Learn more at the Pompeii Antiquarium.

Since my family visited in 2020, I would definitely return to Pompeii to visit the museum and explore even more through the Pompeii ruins.

3. Forums in Pompeii

Ancient columns and brick ruins of the Forum at Pompeii, Italy, with mountains visible in the background.
Standing columns at the Forum—one of the most photographed spots in Pompeii. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

The main Forum is one of the first things you’ll encounter as you enter the archaeological site—and it’s hard to miss. As the civic and commercial heart of ancient Pompeii, the Forum was surrounded by government buildings, temples, markets, and trade centers where residents gathered daily for business, politics, and socializing. The standing columns make it one of the most photographed spots in the entire site.

Don’t overlook the Triangular Forum on the southern end of the site. Less visited than the main Forum, it’s a quieter, more contemplative space that once served as a sacred precinct and offers some lovely views across the ruins.

4. Temples of Jupiter & Apollo

Ancient columns and brick ruins of the Temple of Jupiter at Pompeii, Italy, under a bright blue sky.
The Temple of Jupiter—once the most important place of worship in ancient Pompeii. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Two of Pompeii’s most important temples sit within easy walking distance of the main Forum. The Temple of Jupiter commands the northern end of the Forum and was the most prominent place of worship in the city—dedicated to the king of the Roman gods, it was deliberately positioned so citizens could see Mount Vesuvius looming in the distance behind it.

The Temple of Apollo, one of the oldest structures in Pompeii, sits just southwest of the Forum near the Marina Gate. A bronze statue of Apollo once stood at its center, and the colonnade surrounding the temple is still largely intact—making it one of the more photogenic spots on the entire site.

5. Ancient Baths

Ancient marble basin inside the frigidarium of the Forum Baths at Pompeii, Italy.
The frigidarium cold bath inside the Forum Baths—2,000 years old and still impressive. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

The ancient baths were far more than a place to get clean—they were the social hub of daily life in Pompeii. Since only the wealthiest families could afford private bath houses, most residents visited the public baths regularly. Think of them as the Roman equivalent of a gym, spa, and coffee shop rolled into one—minus the sparkling water.

Pompeii has several bath complexes, with the Forum Baths and the Stabian Baths being the most visited. Both feature separate sections for men and women, and you can still walk through the changing rooms, the frigidarium (cold bath), the tepidarium (warm room), and the caldarium (hot room). The detail preserved in the stucco ceilings and tiled floors alone is worth the stop.

6. The Basilica

The Basilica in Pompeii is one of the oldest surviving examples of a Roman civic building, dating back to around 120 BCE. Located just off the southwestern corner of the Forum, it served as the city’s main courthouse and center of commerce—the place where legal disputes were settled and major business deals were struck.

The two-story colonnaded structure would have been one of the most imposing buildings in the city. Even in ruins, the scale of the Basilica is impressive and gives you a real sense of just how sophisticated Pompeii’s civic life was before Vesuvius had other plans.

7. Villas, Estates & Homes

Ruins of an ancient Roman home with stone walls and small columns surrounded by vegetation at Pompeii, Italy.
Peek inside a Pompeii home—stone walls, courtyard columns, and 2,000 years of history. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Wandering through the residential streets of Pompeii is one of the most surprising parts of the visit. There are dozens of excavated homes ranging from modest single-room dwellings to elaborate villas decorated with frescoes, floor mosaics, and interior gardens. Most homes faced inward toward a central courtyard rather than outward to the street, and many lacked windows entirely.

Merchants often lived above their workshops, and evidence of vegetable gardens and small agricultural plots can still be seen throughout the site. The further you wander from the main Forum, the quieter and more intimate the experience becomes—and that’s where some of the best details are hiding.

8. Inns, Taverns & Bakeries

Ancient marble counter of a thermopolium restaurant with sunken food vessels at Pompeii, Italy.
Pompeii’s version of fast food—a thermopolium counter where hot meals were served daily. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Pompeii had no shortage of places to eat, drink, and socialize. Over 80 thermopolia—ancient fast food counters—have been identified throughout the city, with marble counters featuring sunken ceramic pots that kept food warm for daily customers. Most residents ate out regularly since private kitchens were a luxury, making these establishments the heartbeat of neighborhood life.

Inns welcomed travelers with communal sleeping rooms or private quarters, and bakeries complete with grinding stones and wood-fired ovens have been excavated throughout the site. Archaeologists even found carbonized loaves of bread still sitting in the ovens—baked the morning Vesuvius erupted and perfectly preserved for nearly 2,000 years.

9. House of the Faun & House of the Bear

Intricately decorated mosaic nymphaeum fountain inside the House of the Wounded Bear at Pompeii, Italy.
The mosaic nymphaeum inside the House of the Wounded Bear—one of Pompeii’s hidden gems. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Two of Pompeii’s most fascinating villas sit within the residential streets of the ancient city, and both are worth seeking out. The House of the Faun is the largest private home in Pompeii, covering an entire city block. Named after the small bronze dancing faun found in its central atrium, it once housed stunning floor mosaics—including the famous Battle of Alexander—most of which are now in the Naples Archaeological Museum.

The House of the Wounded Bear is a smaller but equally remarkable find. Named after a mosaic of a wounded bear near the entrance, it features an intricately decorated mosaic nymphaeum fountain and beautifully preserved frescoed walls. Most visitors walk right past it.

10. The Lupanare

The Lupanare is Pompeii’s best-known brothel and one of the most visited stops on the entire site. Ancient Pompeii had dozens of these establishments, but this is the most intact example. The narrow two-story building features small stone rooms, each with a raised stone bed, and frescoes above the doorways that historians believe served as a visual menu of available services—a practical solution in a city where multiple languages were spoken. It’s a fascinating and unapologetic window into daily life in ancient Rome.

11. The Amphitheater & Theatre

Ancient stone seating of the theater at Pompeii, Italy, with visitors sitting on the steps.
Still drawing a crowd after 2,000 years—the theater at Pompeii. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Pompeii had not one but two major entertainment venues, and both are worth a stop. The Large Theater could seat up to 5,000 spectators and was built into the natural slope of the hillside—an engineering feat that is impressive even by today’s standards. It hosted dramatic performances and public gatherings, and the acoustics are still remarkable. Sit down for a moment and take it all in.

The Amphitheater, located at the eastern end of the site, is one of the oldest surviving stone amphitheaters in the Roman world, dating to around 70 BCE. It seated up to 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial games and is still used for concerts and events today. The interior was closed during our visit in 2018, but the exterior alone is worth the walk to that end of the site.

12. Stepping Stones & Streets

Person stepping on ancient stone crosswalk blocks embedded in a cobblestone street at Pompeii, Italy.
Still doing their job after 2,000 years—the stepping stones of Pompeii. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

The stepping stones are some of the most intriguing details in Pompeii. Large flat stones were set at regular intervals across the cobbled streets so residents could cross without stepping into the muck below. The streets were regularly flooded to flush away waste, and these stones were spaced precisely to allow wagon wheels and chariot axles to pass through on either side.

Look closely and you’ll spot ruts worn into the cobblestones from centuries of wagon traffic—a small but remarkable reminder that these streets were once as busy as any modern city. Pompeii had more of these crossing stones than any other Roman city of its time, and walking across them yourself is one of those simple moments that makes the whole visit feel very real.

13. Garden of the Fugitives

The Garden of the Fugitives is one of the most moving stops in all of Pompeii—and one that many visitors miss entirely. Located near the Amphitheater on the southeastern edge of the site, it is the largest collection of plaster casts found in a single location. Thirteen victims—a group that included adults and children—were discovered here, believed to have been trying to escape the eruption when they were overcome by the pyroclastic surge.

The casts are displayed exactly where they were found, lying in the garden that was once a vineyard. It is a quiet, sobering moment in an otherwise fascinating day of exploration, and it puts everything else you’ve seen in perspective.

14. Plaster Casts of Pompeii

Plaster cast of a Pompeii victim seated among ancient artifacts at the archaeological ruins in Italy.
Frozen in time—a plaster cast of a Pompeii victim among the ruins. Photo credit: Chris Kline/Just Wander More

Nothing prepares you for the plaster casts. When archaeologists discovered hollow voids in the ash, they filled them with plaster to reveal the exact forms of Pompeii’s victims—frozen in their final moments. The results are haunting and deeply human.

You’ll find casts displayed throughout the site, including in the Granary near the Forum, and the most recent casts from the Civita Giuliana villa excavations are on display in the Antiquarium Museum. The artifacts in Pompeii bring the history to life.

15. Guided Tours of Pompeii

Pompeii is one of those sites where a guided tour genuinely transforms the experience. The ruins are vast, the signage is minimal, and without context it’s easy to walk past something extraordinary without realizing it. A knowledgeable guide brings the city to life in a way that a map simply cannot.

Options range from small group tours led by archaeologists—ideal if you want serious depth—to day trips from Rome or Naples that bundle transportation and entry. If you’re already staying on the Amalfi Coast, a half-day tour from Sorrento is one of the most efficient ways to visit. Whatever your base, booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially in peak season. This Pompeii Small Group Tour with an Archaeologist is one of the highest-rated options on Viator and a great place to start.

Entrance to Pompeii—Is It Free?

Family selfie at the entrance gate to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, Italy.
AirPods in, Rick Steves queued up, and ready to explore Pompeii. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

Pompeii is free to enter on the first Sunday of every month as part of Italy’s “Sunday at the Museum” initiative. On free days there is no pre-booking and no nominative ticket required—you go directly to the turnstiles until the daily cap is reached. The tradeoff is crowds—free Sundays have seen peaks of over 36,000 visitors in a single day, so arrive early if you go this route.

Children under 18 enter free regardless of nationality, and EU citizens aged 18–24 pay a reduced fee of €2.

For everyone else, standard adult entry is €18 for Pompeii Express, which covers most of the archaeological site including the Antiquarium. The Pompeii Plus ticket at €22 adds the Villa dei Misteri and several additional sites.

As of November 2024, tickets are nominative—your name goes on the ticket—and there is a daily cap of 20,000 visitors. During peak season, timed entry slots are also in effect, and booking 1–3 weeks in advance is strongly recommended. Ticket prices are current as of 2025 and subject to change. Check Pompeii’s official ticketing page for the most up-to-date pricing and availability before your visit

History to Know Before Visiting Pompeii

Ancient columns and ruins at the entrance to Pompeii's Forum archaeological site in Italy.
The ancient ruins of Pompeii—frozen in time since 79 CE. Photo credit: Chris Kline/Just Wander More

Pompeii was a thriving Roman city of approximately 11,000 people when Mount Vesuvius erupted on August 24, 79 CE. The eruption buried the city under nearly 20 feet of volcanic ash and pumice in less than 24 hours, preserving it almost exactly as it was on that morning. Of the 12,000 people living in Pompeii at that time, approximately 2,000 residents were unable to escape the deadly destruction. It remained buried and largely forgotten for over 1,500 years until excavations began in 1748—and those excavations are still ongoing today.

What makes Pompeii extraordinary isn’t just the scale of the disaster—it’s the level of preservation. Streets, buildings, artwork, food, and even human remains were sealed beneath the ash, giving archaeologists an unparalleled snapshot of Roman daily life.

Getting to Pompeii

Circumvesuviana train at the platform in Sant'Agnello near Sorrento, Italy, used to get to Pompeii.
The Circumvesuviana—not glamorous, but it gets you there. Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More

From Sorrento

30 minutes

The Circumvesuviana train is the easiest and most popular way to reach Pompeii from Sorrento—and yes, it looks exactly like this. Don’t let the graffiti fool you; it runs regularly and gets the job done. The ride drops you at the Pompeii Scavi–Villa dei Misteri station, steps from the main Porta Marina entrance. Just watch your belongings—it’s a busy tourist route.

  • Travel time: ~ 30 minutes from Sant’Agnello or Sorrento

From Naples

The Circumvesuviana also connects Naples directly to Pompeii, departing from Naples Porta Nolana or Naples Piazza Garibaldi stations. If you’re based in Naples for the day, this is the most straightforward option—no car rental, no parking headaches, no tour bus required.

  • Travel time: ~ 40 minutes

From Rome

Take a high-speed train from Roma Termini to Naples, then connect to the Circumvesuviana for the final leg to Pompeii. An early start is essential. Alternatively, a guided day trip from Rome handles all the logistics for you. [Viator day trip from Rome link — NoFollow]

  • Travel time: ~ 2 hours each way

Opening Hours & Pompeii Tickets

Hours:

  • March 16th to October 14th: The Pompeii archaeological site is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm with the last entry at 5:30 pm.
  • October 15th to March 15th: Pompeii is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with the last entry at 3:30 PM.
  • Closed: January 1st, May 1st and December 25th.

Tickets (as of January 2026):

  • Pompeii Express (Pompeii city only): €20
  • Pompeii Plus (city + suburban villas): €25
  • Under 18: free
  • EU citizens 18–24: €2

Double check the official Pompeii website for more information as you plan your itinerary. Tickets can also be purchased at vivaticket.com.

Italy Travel Must-Haves

Pompeii involves a lot of walking on uneven cobblestone streets in what can be extreme summer heat—packing smart makes a real difference. Here are a few travel essentials I never visit Italy without. Planning a trip to Italy takes more than a good packing list—but a good packing list is a great place to start. Grab my Italy Travel Planning Bundle and take the guesswork out of what to bring.

Travel Adapter: Not all international countries use the same adapters. Be sure to check before you go. Purchase one here.

Travel Backpack: Chris and I both like our North Face Recon Backpacks. They have a standard version and a women’s version.

Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag: Pickpocketing is a real concern in busy Italian cities. A secure crossbody bag keeps your belongings close without the bulk. I love the Travelon Anti-theft Messenger Bag.

Packing Cubes: A game changer for staying organized, especially when you’re moving between cities. Shop packing cubes here.

Portable Power Bank: Long days of sightseeing, navigation, and photography will drain your phone faster than you think. Don’t get caught without one. Shop power banks here.

Walking Shoes: You will cover a lot of ground on cobblestone streets. Comfortable, broken-in shoes are non-negotiable. Shop walking shoes here.

Favorite Camera: My go-to DSLR is the Canon 6D Mark II and I have zero complaints. If you’re ready to go mirrorless, the Canon EOS R6 Mark III is the natural upgrade—and your existing Canon EF lenses work on it with an adapter. New to photography? Start with the Canon EOS R50.

Get a Travel Credit Card: We often travel worldwide for free using travel rewards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our favorite travel credit cards.

Favorite Electronics: We are a family of Apple users—watches, phones, tablets, AirPods, and Apple AirTags for security. Don’t forget the cables and chargers too. Check out our electronics suggestions here.

Tips for Visiting Pompeii

Person dressed as Where's Waldo in a red and white striped shirt and hat at the ancient ruins of Pompeii, Italy.
We found Waldo at Pompeii! Photo credit: Jolayne Kline/Just Wander More
  • Keep your eyes open while exploring—we actually found Waldo at Pompeii.
  • Plan to visit on the first Sunday of the month when there are free Pompeii slots for entrance—just head directly to the turnstiles, no pre-booking required.
  • You may be asked to check your bags and backpacks before entering. We came with Chris’ backpack filled with the Camelbak reservoir filled ice water and my backpack filled with my camera gear and were surprised (and grateful) when we were allowed to bring everything in.
  • There are water spigots throughout Pompeii where you can refill water bottles. If I remember correctly, the water was refreshing but not very cold.
  • Pick up a map at the entrance so that you know where the restrooms, main attractions, and cafe are located.
  • Pompeii is divided into 8 regions and is a large site. Plan for a minimum of four hours to explore, but likely more.
  • Arrive well before closing—last entry is 5:30 pm in summer and 3:30 pm in winter.
  • There is a cafe just past the Forum and the Temple of Jupiter in Region 7 where you can stop for snacks, ice cream, gelato, and use the restroom.
  • Don’t forget to pack the protein bars if you want to snack throughout the day. Well, except you will want to stop for gelato. You still have to buy gelato!
  • Download the free Rick Steves Audio Europe app before your visit—the Pompeii tour is what we listened to and it added incredible context to everything we saw without adding to the budget.
  • The Discover Pompeii App is free to download with in-app purchases and comes highly rated, though we haven’t personally tested it. APPLE App or Android App
Rick Steves Pompeii Map
Pompeii Map courtesy of Rick Steves Audio Walking Tours of Italy

Photographing Pompeii

Pompeii is an extraordinary place to photograph—ancient columns framing open sky, worn cobblestone streets, frescoed walls, and intimate courtyards around every corner. The best light is early morning when the site opens and crowds are thin. A wide angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the Forum and amphitheater, while a zoom lens lets you pull in architectural details without disturbing other visitors. Whatever camera you’re shooting with, you won’t run out of subjects.

Point & Shoot Cameras — The pocketable PowerShot SX740 HS is a do-it-all compact with 4K video and impressive zoom range. No lens swapping required. For a step up in performance, the Canon PowerShot V1 delivers better image quality and video in a still-compact body.

DSLRs — One of the lightest DSLRs on the market, the Canon Rebel SL3 has a great battery life, a vari-angle touchscreen, and solid image quality in a comfortable grip. Ready to go full-frame? The Canon EOS 6D Mark II (my current camera) delivers professional-level image quality with a fully articulating screen and impressive low-light performance—a favorite among travel photographers who don’t want to make the jump to mirrorless just yet.

Mirrorless Cameras — The Canon EOS R50 is the sweet spot for travel: 24.2MP, 4K video, lightweight, and beginner-friendly without sacrificing quality. Step up to the Canon EOS R8 if you want full-frame performance in a carry-all-day body, or the Canon EOS R7 for serious action and wildlife shooting at 32MP.

Adventure & Underwater Cameras — Built for the moments when your camera needs to keep up with you. The GoPro Hero 13 is waterproof, shockproof, and small enough to clip anywhere—perfect for hiking, rafting, snorkeling, or any activity Chris talks me into!

Phone Camera — Arguably the best camera is the one you always have with you. Today’s smartphone cameras are genuinely impressive, and for social media and quick shots, they’re hard to beat whether you’re shooting with an Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel.

Check out my Photography Gear on Amazon for more ideas and recommendations.

My recommendation is to arrive at Pompeii early in the morning for the best photo opportunities and hopefully fewer tourists (though there is no guarantee at such a popular attraction). Whatever camera you choose as you discover all of the best things to do in Pompeii, you will want to have the battery charged and ready to go for the day. A backup battery isn’t a bad idea either.

Italy Quick Facts

  • Official Language: Italian
  • Capital City: Rome
  • Population: 58.9 million
  • Currency: Euro (€ or EUR)
  • Power Outlet: Type L (3 round prongs) is standard and Type C (2 round pins)
  • Emergency Number: 112
  • Drive on the: Right side of the Road
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you visit both Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day?

It is possible, but not recommended. Both sites deserve more time than a rushed visit allows. Pompeii alone requires a minimum of four hours to cover the highlights—add Herculaneum and you’re looking at a very full, very fast day with little room to absorb either site properly. If your itinerary allows, dedicate a full day to each.

How long did the Mt. Vesuvius eruption last?

Mt. Vesuvius erupted in August of 79 CE. The eruption lasted approximately 12 hours. First a fine-grained ash, then coarse white pumice, and later a gray pumice rained down on Pompeii and the surrounding area before the pyroclastic surge buried the city entirely.

What is the best time to visit Pompeii?

Early morning is the best time of day—cooler temperatures and thinner crowds make for a much better experience. For the best time of year, November through March offers smaller crowds, though winter hours are shorter. Summer is peak season and can be extremely hot and busy.

Is Pompeii worth visiting

Without question. Pompeii is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world and unlike anything else you will experience in Italy. Whether you have a passing interest in history or a deep fascination with ancient Rome, walking through a preserved Roman city is an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

How long do you need at Pompeii?

Plan for a minimum of four hours, but a full day is ideal if you want to explore beyond the main highlights. Pompeii is divided into 8 regions and covers a large area—the further you wander from the Forum, the fewer crowds and the more interesting the discoveries.

Is Pompeii suitable for children?

Yes—Pompeii is a fascinating destination for kids of all ages. The stepping stones, ancient bakeries, and sheer scale of the site tend to capture even reluctant sightseers. A few areas, including the Lupanare, contain adult content that parents may want to preview before visiting with younger children.

What should I wear to Pompeii?

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. The cobblestone streets are uneven and you will cover significant ground. Dress in layers, bring sun protection, and carry a refillable water bottle. In summer, a hat and sunscreen are essential as much of the site is exposed with little shade.

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Plaster cast of a Pompeii victim seated among ancient artifacts—one of the best things to do in Pompeii, Italy.

One Day in Pompeii & You’ll Want to See All of Italy

This post contains only a small sprinkling of the best things to do in Pompeii during your visit. There is so much more to see and experience. I enjoyed our day exploring the archeological site immensely and would love to return and perhaps add Herculaneum or “Ercolano” as part of the experience.

If Roman history has you hooked, Italy is just the beginning. Impressive ancient ruins are scattered across Europe, from the Arena in Pula, Croatia to sites throughout Greece and beyond. Once you start chasing history, it’s nearly impossible to stop.

Before you go, grab my free Italy Travel Planning Bundle and start checking things off your list.

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39 Comments

  1. Pompeii is definitely a bucket-list item for me as well – I didn’t realize that there was bread found too! usually all you hear about are all the people… And visiting on the first Sunday is a great tip to save a little. Thanks for sharing.

  2. I would love to visit Pompeii! The bread fact is wild but so cool. Great to know the Antiquarium is open now. I’ll definitely be downloading the app and the audio tour, great tips!

  3. Wow I had no idea Pompeii was so close to Naples and Sorrento – and not even that far from Rome! I didnt get a chance to visit when I was in Italy, so its definitely on the bucket list when I go back!

  4. I have been in Italy for so long and I love Campania, but I never made it to Pompeii. Shame on me, I know!! But your guide gives me all the wanderlust ? Will save it asap!

  5. Wow, what a fascinating history! I’d visit simply to learn more about that, but there’s so much more to do here! Great tip about visiting (for free) on Sundays. I’d especially love to see the Antiquarium – how neat that it was closed for 36 years and is now reopened to the public! You have truly convinced me to visit Pompeii; adding it to my bucket list now. Thanks again for all of the great info! Xx Sara

  6. I must admit I was far more fascinated with Pompeii than I expected. The site was massive and so much more was being uncovered. We did a tour from Sorrento included Mt Vesuvius. That would have been a long day from Rome. 

  7. I love history-centred trips. Pompeii is on my list and I hope to make it there soon. I will for sure save this guide for the future.

  8. What a photographer’s dream spot to go and capture these ancient sites. Next I’m in Rome I’ll need to make sure I do this.

  9. This is on my bucket list too. Wow, they found bread!?!
    It must have been an amazing and vibrant city before the eruption. I like to do a mental reconstruction and imagine people and animals walking around. I would be looking forward to doing the tour as it must be super interesting.

  10. i’ve always been so intrigued with the history and story of Pompeii – it’s almost surreal reading about your experience and contrasting it against all that i’ve learned!

  11. I have wanted to visit Pompeii since I was a young and this article is so helpful thank you! I had no idea that the first Sunday was free too! That’s fantastic!

  12. Time and time again, I go to Italy and avoid Pompeii because I don’t know where to start! Thanks for the great guide to get me motivated!

  13. I loved Pompeii when I visited – so interesting. This is such a comprehensive guide you provide and I wish I had seen it before my trip. Next time!

  14. Wow! What a thorough guide. There’s so many points of interest in this historic site. I think I’d want to see Temple of Jupiter most. Saving for later!

  15. Great post. I went to Pompei a hundred years ago…LOL. Id love to go again now that I have a better understanding of the world history. Great photos…maybe I can visit again someday so saving this for later.

  16. Love the recommendations on apps to download and camera to bring along…. the Basilica would be at the top of my must see list…

  17. I love visiting spots like this! Good to know about the free entry on the first Sunday of the month. I’d definitely take advantage of that if it aligned with my travel plans. But, I’d also be more than happy to pay to see such a cool piece of history.

  18. We were so surprised when we visited Pompeii. There was more to see and it was definitely more captivating that we expected. And so much is continuing to be excavated. Will be worth another visit in a few years to see more of the Roman ruins in Pompeii.

  19. I didn’t prioritize Pompeii when I was in Italy, but after reading this I wish I went. But i’m sure I’ll be going back – great read

  20. Pompeii is one of the most fascinating historical sites I’ve ever visited. Walking through the ancient streets really makes history feel alive. Thanks for sharing such a detailed guide!

  21. I must admit we almost passed on visiting Pompeii. But it was an amazing experience and we were glad we did not miss it. So fascinating to see all that they have uncovered. And to know that each visit will be different because they are still doing excavation.

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