Itineraries for Your Trip to Pompeii
3 Days in Pompeii for First Timers
One of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, the ancient Roman city of Pompeii is surrounded by the modern metropolis of Pompei. My first foray into the sprawling archaeological site was a rushed, unguided school trip. Since then, I’ve learned that taking your time and visiting with a guide helps illuminate these magnificent ruins. Make the area your base for a dive into the blockbuster UNESCO-listed site—ideally staying near the Circumvesuviana train line for hassle-free logistics. Take a few days to explore Pompeii and the Campania region. Naples, Sorrento, and the famed Amalfi Coast fishing villages are easy day trips.
To experience southern Italy far from the crowds (and on a budget), here are my tips for plotting a 3-day visit to Pompeii.
The ancient ruins have almost no shade, and the sun is relentless in summer, so bring a hat and sunscreen.
If you only have time for one thing, make it the Garden of the Fugitives to see plaster casts of those killed in the Pompeii eruption.
Begin with the headliner and get to Pompeii when the ruins open to beat the crowds. Little explanatory information is posted inside this sprawling site, so visit with a guide who can explain the highlights and provide insights to help interpret the complex Roman ruins.
Afterward, take a bus or join a tour with transportation to Mt. Vesuvius, the volcano that looms above the Pompeii ruins. Hike the short trail to the crater’s edge for sweeping views across the Bay of Naples. A number of wineries sit on the slopes of the volcano; stop for a tour and tasting.
Set off for nearby Sorrento today to admire its charming historic center, home to shop-lined lanes and landmark churches. Begin with an espresso in the bustling Piazza Tasso, then tour the Cloister of San Francesco and stop by the scenic overlook in the Villa Comunale Park.
The Amalfi Coast is farther down the coastline. After visiting Sorrento, set off to Positano by ferry or private boat (or take a driving tour). Dedicate a few hours to wandering steep lanes and staircases in this charming fishing village, stopping to browse the boutiques and enjoy the views around every corner.
Get to know the captivating city of Naples, rich in cultural treasures and unforgettable cuisine. To get a sense of the city's sometimes overwhelming layout, take a guided walk through the historic center to see its magnificent churches and chaotic street markets.
Take a break from the relentless pace in Naples, setting off along the coastline with an afternoon boat tour through the bay. Cruise past Posillipo and Castel dell’Ovo and stop for a cool dip. Back on land, end with an authentic pizza napolitana at one of the traditional pizzerias dotting the waterfront and city center.
