Pompeii is one of Italy’s most famous archaeological sites, located just 25 kilometers from Naples.
This makes it one of the most popular day trips from Naples.
Even though I only had one week in Naples, I still allotted one day to visit Pompeii. I was so glad I did it!
Here’s a comprehensive guide to all transportation options between these two cities.
Main Topics of How To Go to Pompeii from Naples: A Complete Transportation Guide
1. Circumvesuviana Train (Most Popular Option)
Duration: 35-40 minutes
Cost: €3.60 one-way
Pros:
– Most economical option
– Frequent departures (multiple trains per day)
– Direct route to Pompeii Scavi station
– No traffic concerns
Cons:
– Often crowded, without the option to book seats in advance
– Basic facilities
– No air conditioning
– Can be uncomfortable during peak summer months
– Limited luggage space (that most people don’t need anyway on their day trip to Pompeii)
I used Circumvesuviana to get from Naples to Pompeii in May. I found it very convenient, as it wasn’t crowded at all. Also, the temperature inside the cars was comfortable.
It looks rather like a commuter train or a subway going above the ground.
How to Use:
1. Go to Napoli Centrale station
2. Head downstairs to the Circumvesuviana platforms
3. Buy tickets at the counter or machines
4. Take the train towards Sorrento
5. Exit at “Pompeii Scavi – Villa dei Misteri” station
From the exit point, you need to walk for about 5-10 minutes to get to the Pompeii site entrance. Just follow the other people to get there.
2. Organized Tour
Duration: 30-40 minutes (transport only)
Cost: €40-200 (including guided tour)
Check out this small group, round trip tour of Pompeii with wine tasting. This tour has excellent customer reviews and it has several pickup point variants.
Pros:
– Includes professional guide
– Air-conditioned comfort
– Historical context provided
– Convenient pickup from Naples hotels or from the airport
Cons:
– More expensive
– Fixed schedule
– Less flexibility for exploration
– Must follow group pace
The biggest downside of organized tours, in my view, is the limited exploration time.
I spent 4-5 hours inside the archaeological site of Pompeii and I thought it was a hasted tour. Nonetheless, if you go with a savvy guide, you can see most things in as little as a couple of hours.
Many of the houses in Pompeii have such frescoes
3. Private Transfer/Taxi
Duration: 25-30 minutes
Cost: €60-100 one-way
Pros:
– Maximum comfort and convenience
– Direct door-to-door service
– Flexible departure times
– Air-conditioned vehicles
– Professional drivers
Cons:
– Most expensive option
– Need to arrange return trip
– Potential traffic delays
– Risk of tourist overcharging
4. Public SITA Bus
**Duration:** 45-60 minutes
**Cost:** €3.20 one-way
Pros:
– Economical option
– Scenic route
– Air-conditioned
– More comfortable than train
Cons:
– Subject to traffic
– Less frequent than trains
– Limited schedules
– Not as reliable as the train service
5. Tourist Express Train
This train has fewer stops than the Circumvesuviana.
It is more expensive and it runs less frequently than the Circumvesuviana. I don’t see why anyone would choose it, but I listed it here, anyway.
That’s Vesuvius, in the background
Tips for Your Pompeii Visit
Remember to validate your tickets before boarding trains or buses to avoid fines.
Keep your belongings secure and carry water during summer visits. Consider downloading offline maps and transportation apps for easier navigation.
Wear a hat and sunscreen. There’s barely any shadow at Pompeii, so you’ll be under direct sunlight for most part of your visit.
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