How to get from Naples to Pompeii
Which train, which station, which entrance, and what to prepare before you go.
Pompeii is an easy day trip from Naples by train, with no need for a car. The main choice is which station you arrive at, because it decides which entrance of the site is closest.
Circumvesuviana
The local railway departs from Napoli Garibaldi (next to Napoli Centrale). Get off at Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri, right by the Porta Marina entrance of the archaeological site. The journey is about 35 minutes.
Regional train (Trenitalia)
Regional trains from Napoli Centrale stop at Pompei, the station in the modern town. From there it is a walk through the town to the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance. A good fit if you prefer to start at that end of the site.
Organised tour
Tours from Naples include the transfer and usually a guide. It costs more and follows a fixed schedule, but you don't have to work out the trains or the entrances yourself.
Which entrance
The archaeological park has three entrances: Porta Marina, Piazza Esedra (Porta Marina Inferiore) and Piazza Anfiteatro. Ticket offices are at the entrances.
- By Circumvesuviana you arrive next to Porta Marina.
- By the regional train to Pompei you are closer to Piazza Anfiteatro.
- Which end you start from also decides where you finish, so think about which station you'll take back.
Before you go
- Tickets: the park sells tickets online and at the entrances. Booking ahead is recommended in busy periods. Check the official site for current ticket types and rules.
- Plan at least 3-4 hours. The site is large, with little shade and uneven ancient paving.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and bring water, a hat and sun protection.
- There are limits on the size of bags you can take in. Paid luggage storage is available at the Porta Marina and Piazza Anfiteatro entrances.
- Spring and autumn are milder. In summer go early in the day.
- Keep your bags and phone close at the station and on the train.
- Timetables, tickets and opening hours change: check the train operator and the park's official website before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to get from Naples to Pompeii?
The Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Garibaldi to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri. The station is next to the Porta Marina entrance and the journey takes about 35 minutes.
Do I need to book Pompeii in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends and in busy periods. The park sells tickets online and at its entrances. Check the official site for the current rules.
How long do you need at Pompeii?
Plan at least 3-4 hours. A full day lets you see more of the site at a relaxed pace.
Should I visit Pompeii or Herculaneum?
Pompeii is larger and more famous. Herculaneum is smaller, closer to Naples and easier to see in a few hours. If you have time for only one, both are good choices: it depends on whether you prefer scale or a calmer visit.
How many days do you need in Naples
It mainly depends on whether you also want day trips outside the city.
Plan the rest of your trip
See how many days to allow and what else fits into a day trip.