Temples, a basilica, and market spaces cluster around the forum—start here for orientation, context, and views toward Vesuvius. The forum anchors the site and gives a clear sense of the city's scale before you explore further.
Relive the last moments of the ill-fated Pompeiians, walking in their final footsteps, and witness the plaster citizens frozen in time forever.
In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius buried Pompeii in ash and pumice. Rediscovered centuries later, the city offers an unparalleled look at Roman daily life.
Today Pompeii is one of Italy's most visited archaeological parks. Wear sun protection, comfortable shoes, and plan several hours—or a full day—for the main forum, homes, baths, and amphitheatre.
Temples, a basilica, and market spaces cluster around the forum—start here for orientation, context, and views toward Vesuvius. The forum anchors the site and gives a clear sense of the city's scale before you explore further.
Wealthy merchants' houses preserve vivid frescoes and mosaics that survived two millennia under volcanic ash. The House of the Vettii is among the most visited. Some buildings rotate access seasonally for conservation—check the official map on arrival and allow extra time if specific houses are a priority.
One of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatres—dating to 80 BC, predating the Colosseum by over a century. The walk from the forum covers much of the site; wear sun protection and carry water, as shade is limited outside the covered spaces.
Pompeii is easily reached from Naples via the Circumvesuviana train to 'Pompei Scavi–Villa dei Misteri' station, or from the Amalfi Coast by ferry to Salerno then train. Buy tickets online to skip long entrance queues. Flat shoes, sun protection, and a minimum of two hours are essential—a full half-day is more realistic for the main sites.
