Planning a trip to Pompeii, the EPIC archaeological site in Italy? We got you covered with our top picks of the best Pompeii tours from Rome, Naples, and Sorrento!
Located near Naples, Pompeii is a well-preserved ancient Roman city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius almost two thousand years ago. The tragic event left behind a time capsule that still fascinates visitors from around the world today.
The city of Pompeii was frozen in time as a result of the catastrophic eruption, and much of it remains virtually intact. Today you can explore the ruins of homes, public baths, temples, and more with an archaeologist while on a day tour from Rome.
Best Pompeii Tours from Rome: Planning A Day Trip to Pompeii from Rome by Public Transport
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Best Guided Pompeii Tour from Rome
This Pompeii and Herculaneum tour is one of the popular tours from Rome. You will love to check two heritage sites in one day along with dedicated sightseeing in Pompeii with an archaeologist. Plus this tour has good frequency so you can surely add that to your Italy itinerary with ease! And you also get hotel pick up and drop off & lunch included!
At Pompeii, you can experience history first-hand with guided tours that bring to life the story of its destruction and subsequent rediscovery. You can also visit nearby Herculaneum, another city destroyed by the eruption which offers beautiful views of the Bay of Naples.
An impressive array of artifacts have been discovered during excavations throughout the years including frescoes, mosaics, jewelry, weapons, pottery, and much more. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the everyday life of ancient Romans.
Whether you’re an avid traveler, history enthusiast, or curious explorer, a visit to Pompeii is not to be missed. We will share all the possible options to travel to Pompeii with or without a tour.
So let’s get started,
Best Rome to Pompeii Tours
Most day tours from Rome to Pompeii will include round-trip transportation, a guided walk, and a second stop at a nearby attraction such as Herculaneum, Naples, or the Amalfi Coast.
1. Pompeii and Herculaneum Tour from Rome (12 hours)
➤ BOOK this Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
♡ RATING: 4.9 Out of 5 stars
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Rome
- ☑ This is a small group tour (You can upgrade to a private tour)
- ☑ Skip the line entrance tickets to Pompeii and Herculaneum
- ☑ Guided walking tour of both sites
- ☑ Lunch on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius
- ☑ Start time is 07:20 am (hotel pick up and drop off)
Why choose this tour?
Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum Ercolano in one day. This day tour is perfect to visit the heritage sites with an English-speaking guide. You will travel by private minivan after a pick up from your Rome accommodation.
Skip the line tickets are included for both sites and you will have a guide who will share their histories.
Each day tour also includes a tasting of the local specialty, buffalo mozzarella, as well as lunch and wine tasting whilst soaking in the views of Mount Vesuvius.
After an engaging day, you will be dropped off in Rome!
🛒 Click to book this Rome to Pompeii & Herculaneum Full Day Sightseeing Tour
2. From Rome: Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Positano Day Trip (13 hours)
➤ BOOK this Rome to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast tour
♡ RATING: 4.5 Out of 5 stars – with over 1450 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Rome in an air-conditioned coach
- ☑ You can upgrade to a semi-private tour (maximum 8 people) when checking out
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided walking tour of Pompeii with an archaeologist
- ☑ Free time in Positano or Amalfi town
- ☑ Start time is 07:20 am
Why choose this tour?
This is one of the affordable day tours from Rome. It includes dedicated sightseeing time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii with an expert guide.
You have Skip-the-Line tickets included as well as a round-trip ride from the centre of Rome.
The sightseeing in Pompeii is pretty in-depth and you get to learn how the ancient Roman city was tragically destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption nearly two thousand years ago and has been meticulously preserved as a time capsule ever since.
You will explore the ruins of homes, public baths, temples, and more to uncover an impressive array of artifacts from frescoes to pottery that provide insight into the everyday life of ancient Rome.
After Pompeii, you will drive to Amalfi Coast. Depending on the season, you will either explore Amalfi town or Positano at your leisure. Here you can grab a bite to eat/drink and then return to Rome in the evening.
In Positano, you will see pretty houses tumble down the hillside and stroll among the boutique stores. Purchase some of the local limoncello liqueur, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, or people-watch from a restaurant terrace.
If you are visiting Amalfi town, you will have time to enjoy the beach and enter the beautiful Duomo and souvenir shops.
🛒 Click to book this Rome to Pompeii and Amalfi Coast day tour
3. From Rome: Pompeii and Naples Day Trip by High-Speed Train
➤ BOOK this Rome to Pompeii and Naples Day Trip by High-Speed Train
♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Rome to Naples via high speed train and private car transfer to Pompeii
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided tour of Pompeii with an expert guide
- ☑ Lunch in Naples
- ☑ Start time is 08:00 am
Why choose this tour?
This day tour from Rome takes you via high-speed train to Naples and then a transfer to Pompeii in an A/C transportation.
Rome to Naples is just over an hour. From Rome, you will arrive in Naples and then visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii on a 2-hour guided tour exploring the ancient streets.
Take your time to see the various bakeries, shops, stalls, private and communal residences, public baths, and more.
After visiting Pompeii, you will hop on a ride back to visit a historic pizzeria serving some of the most authentic pizza the town has to offer (and remember, they are the birthplace of Italian pizza, so it’s a competitive market)!
After lunch, you will enjoy free time in the heart of Naples for more exploring. Take in the breathtaking view of the Bay of Naples from Posillipo, and also wander the historic center – Piazza del Plebescito, the San Carlo Theatre, and of course, the Royal Palace (from outside) before returning to Rome by train.
🛒 Click to book this Rome to Pompeii day tour by high-speed train
4. From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius on a private tour (12 hours)
➤ BOOK this Rome to Pompeii Mount Vesuvius on a private tour
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Private round-trip transportation from Rome (with a hotel pick-up)
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided 2 hour walking tour of Pompeii
- ☑ Lunch on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius
- ☑ Hike up Mount Vesuvius
- ☑ Start time is 07:30 am
Why choose this tour?
This day tour, although very difficult to come by – is perfect for a comfortable trip to Pompeii. It includes a hike and lunch as part of the private day tour!
From Rome, your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel, and then take you to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
At the Pompeii site, you will embark on a guided tour, and learn of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption and how the Romans lived. You will see all the most important public buildings and private houses.
Afterward, you will enjoy lunch at a typical restaurant, pizzeria, or winery. In the afternoon, a hike to Mount Vesuvius awaits you. At the top of the volcano is a crater rim that allows a view into the crater that still smokes slightly.
Don’t forget to wear (closed) hiking shoes as you will be on a steep uphill walk. At the end of the tour, the guide/driver will drop you back at your Rome hotel.
🛒 Click to book this Rome to Pompeii Private Tour
5. From Rome: Day Trip to Pompeii with Lunch and Guide (12 hours)
➤ BOOK this Pompeii day tour with lunch and a guide
♡ RATING: 4.4 Out of 5 stars – with over 430 reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Rome in an air-conditioned bus
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided walking tour of Pompeii (options for an audio guide)
- ☑ Lunch (of pizza and drink)
- ☑ Start time is 07:30 am
Why choose this tour?
Hop on an air-conditioned bus from Rine whilst enjoying rolling hills on the drive to Naples. On this full-day tour from Rome, you will explore Pompeii as well as Naples. Naples is known for its rich history, art, culture, and gastronomy.
The tour splits time between Naples and Pompeii. You will drive up the Vomero Hill for views of the city, the Bay of Naples, the Sorrento peninsula, and the volcanic area of Phlegrean fields.
Plus you will stop for a traditional lunch of Neapolitan pizza with a drink before reaching the archaeological site.
In the afternoon, you will enter the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pompeii site with skip-the-line tickets and enjoy a guided tour.
🛒 Click to book this Pompeii day tour with lunch and a tour guide
6. From Rome: Pompeii with Winery Lunch on Mount Vesuvius (12 hours)
➤ BOOK this From Rome: Pompeii with Winery Lunch on Mount Vesuvius
♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Private round trip transportation from Rome
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided walking tour of Pompeii
- ☑ 3-course winery lunch
- ☑ Tasting of 4 wines led by a sommelier
- ☑ Start time is 07:15 am
Why choose this tour?
Ride from Rome to Pompeii in a comfortable vehicle. Along the way, you will learn about the Pompeii Archaeological Park and nearby areas.
At Pompeii, you will join a guided tour of the site. From there, you will make your way to a local vineyard right on the slopes of Vesuvius. This is where you will enjoy a picturesque stroll through the vines and learn about the winemaking traditions here as well as the history.
The tour also includes a homemade three-course lunch prepared with regional products and expertly paired with four of the best wines from the vineyard.
Before leaving you will enjoy a quick hike up the volcano and soak in the panoramic views.
🛒 Click to book this Rome to Pompeii with Winery Lunch on Mount Vesuvius
7. From Rome: Naples, Pompeii, and Amalfi Coast 3-Day Trip (3 days)
➤ BOOK this 3 day tour from Rome to Naples and Amalfi Coast
♡ RATING: 4.6 Out of 5 stars
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Private round trip transportation from Rome
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided walking tour of Pompeii
- ☑ 3-course winery lunch
- ☑ Tasting of 4 wines led by a sommelier
- ☑ Start time is 07:30 am
Why choose this tour?
Here is a unique 3 day tour of Pompeii, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast from Rome. It is a great option if you are not renting a car and wish to explore the Amalfi with ease.
The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation in Amalfi – Hotel Fontana (3 stars) or Lido Mare (3 stars), BB.
On your first day, lunch is also offered in Pompeii.
You will have ample time to explore Pompeii with a guide (tickets). A short sightseeing walk in Naples is also included. This package has a mix of regular tours and private services, and transfers could be arranged using different vehicles on the same trip
🛒 Click to book this 3 day tour from Rome to Naples, and Amalfi Coast
Other Pompeii Tours worth taking
Now that we have covered some of the popular and the best day tours from Rome here are some of the other Pompeii guided tours in English from nearby towns of Naples and Sorrento. (One of the benefits of taking a tour from Sorrento or Naples is that you can start a little later than 07:00 am 🙂
8. Best Pompeii Tours from Sorrento
➤ BOOK this Full-Day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Tour from Sorrento
♡ RATING: 4.6 Out of 5 stars – with over 1690 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Rome
- ☑ Skip-the-line entrance tickets to Pompeii
- ☑ Guided walking tour of Pompeii – 2.50 hours
- ☑ Lunch
- ☑ 1 hour hike to Mount Vesuvius (+ entry tickets included)
- ☑ Start time is 09:15 am
Why choose this tour?
Explore Pompeii ruins and Mount Vesuvius on a guided day trip starting from Sorrento (or Naples). The tour kicks off with a guided walk at Pompeii.
After sightseeing at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will have time to visit the surrounding shops and cafes.
Next, enjoy a 3-course lunch meal that is included with one drink.
After lunch, get to Mount Vesuvius from the comfort of your seat. From there, step out and make your own way to the crater’s edge on a 30-minute ascent. Learn about the history and the geographical terrain of the volcano.
🛒 Click to book this Full-Day Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Tour
9. Best Pompeii and Vesuvius Tour from Naples (7 hours)
➤ BOOK this From Rome: Pompeii with Winery Lunch on Mount Vesuvius
♡ RATING: 4.4 Out of 5 stars with more than 1160 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation + pick up/drop off from main hotels in Naples
- ☑ 2 hour sightseeing in Pompeii
- ☑ 2 hour Mount Vesuvius visit
- ☑ Lunch and wine (if option selected)
- ☑ Start time is 08:00 am
Why choose this tour?
This is a 7-hour day tour from Naples with pick up and drop off (from main hotels) with 2-hour sightseeing included in each site – Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
See the Forum, the Stabian Baths, a brothel, the House of the Faun, the House of the Tragic Poet, and more. Then, drive up Mount Vesuvius with a volcanologist guide.
After visiting Pompeii, enjoy your lunch, and then drive to the top of Mount Vesuvius to enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Here you will enjoy another walk with a volcanologist guide who will tell you about the geological history of the volcano and its eruptions.
🛒 Click to book this Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius with Pizza or Wine Tasting
10. From Naples: Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Sightseeing Tour (8 hours)
➤ BOOK this Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
♡ RATING: 4.3 Out of 5 stars with more than 220 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation
- ☑ Pompeii visit
- ☑ Herculaneum visit
- ☑ Light lunch
- ☑ Start time is 08:00 am
Why choose this tour?
Embark on an 8-hour day tour from Naples to enjoy a guided tour of the World Heritage Sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The tour offers a pick-up at your hotel in Naples and a transfer by bus to the ruins at Pompeii.
A light lunch is included. After lunch, head to Herculaneum where you’ll have the chance to explore the ruins on your own.
*Note that entrance tickets are extra
🛒 Click to book this Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
11. Pompeii Tours from Naples: Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip (8 hours)
➤ BOOK this Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
♡ RATING: 4.5 Out of 5 stars with more than 160 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation
- ☑ Pompeii visit – 2 hour walking tour
- ☑ Walking tour in Amalfi town – 2 hours
- ☑ Light lunch
- ☑ Start time is 08:00 am
Why choose this tour?
Explore Pompeii (on a 2-hour walking tour) and Amalfi town on a single-day tour from Naples.
In Pompeii, you will see the theater, the necropolis, the Thermae, and some aristocratic houses that were owned by the city’s richest citizens.
The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, the tour continues to the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Sit back and relax as panoramic views of Positano and Amalfi town! You will have time to wander the town before returning to Naples.
🛒 Click to book this Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
How to do a day trip from Rome to Pompeii on your own
A day trip from Rome to Pompeii is a great way to explore the ancient city’s archaeological wonders without having to stay overnight.
Without a day tour, you can take the train, shuttle bus, or drive there yourself.
Once you arrive in Pompeii, it’s time to explore the ruins! The best way to get oriented is to book a 2 hour walking tour with an expert archaeologist guide.
Rome to Pompeii by train
There are several direct trains that run daily including the high-speed Frecciarossa and Intercity from Rome to Naples and then making connections to Pompeii. The journey takes about two hours each way, and tickets can be purchased in advance online or at any of the major train stations in Rome.
It is also an affordable way to make the journey, and visiting Pompeii on your own allows you to customize your experience.
You can book fast trains that take you from Roma Termini to Pompeii via Naples (Napoli Centrale). Most trains will have one change and the total travel time is one hour and 30 minutes.
Roma Termini (1 hour 10 minutes) > Napoli Centrale (25 minutes) > Pompeii
The best station for the ruins is Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri train station. And regional trains called the Circumvesuviana will take you there from Naples.
Tickets start at 15 euros for a round trip. You can find train schedules and prices here on RailEurope.
There are talks of a direct train line from Rome to Pompeii (to be completed/open in 2024).
Shuttle bus from Rome to Pompeii
Buses operate between Rome and Pompeii on a regular basis. It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes, one way to arrive. Some trips are 5-7 hours long – depending on the day and time of travel.
We won’t recommend this option if you are planning a day trip. However, you can plan to explore Pompeii and then later stay in Naples. One-way tickets cost 16 euros.
Rome to Pompeii by car
The road distance between Rome and Pompeii is about 240 kilometres (149 miles). It will take you 2 hours and 32 minutes via the E45 road, southbound to complete the trip.
Parking is available near the Pompeii site.
Read: Rome and Amalfi Coast Itinerary with Pompeii
Travel Tips for Pompeii Italy
Visiting Pompeii, Italy, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips to help you plan your visit.
Pompeii opening hours
First and foremost, check the opening hours before you go. The archaeological site is open from 09:00 am to 07:00 pm with the last entry at 05:30 pm.
Pompeii tickets and tours
Pompeii tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office located next to the main entrance.
Tickets cost about 16€ per person without a guide. It is best to buy tickets online and ahead of time avoid long queues.
✅Book: Grab a ticket here
Pompeii Packing Tips
Make sure to pack appropriately for your visit. The weather can be unpredictable so it’s best to bring a light raincoat or umbrella.
Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and remember to bring a hat and sunscreen if it’s sunny.
It’s important to stay hydrated during your visit, so make sure to bring plenty of water with you. Food is also available inside and near the archaeological site at several restaurants and cafés, but it’s usually more expensive.
So if you want to save money, it’s best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Finally, it’s important to respect the archaeological site. Don’t touch any of the ruins or artifacts as this could damage them or even put you in danger. Also, make sure to take all of your trash with you when you leave.
By following these tips, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable visit to Pompeii. So start planning your trip today and experience why this ancient city remains fascinating thousands of years later!
Other frequently asked questions: Rome to Pompeii day trip guide
Can I enter Pompeii for free?
Yes, you can visit Pompeii for free on the first Sunday of each month. We recommend securing a spot online or you can get a pass from the ticket office in Pompeii. Keep in mind, it can get very busy on free Sundays.
Do I need to join a tour or can I explore on my own?
We highly recommend using a guided tour to explore the Pompeii site (regardless of how you plan to arrive – tour, train or drive there yourself). Typically a 2-hour tour with an expert guide will save you time and provide you with a good understanding of the archaeological site.
With over 44 hectares of ruins, you will be wasting precious time without a guide. A day tour from Rome or Naples will not only provide you with round trip transportation but also include a guided walking tour along with 1-2 extra stops – so it is 100% worth booking.
Is there a direct train from Rome to Pompeii?
There are usually no direct trains from Rome to Pompeii. Most trains including the fastest ones will have one change (either in Salerno or Naples). And then from there, you can complete the last leg of the journey on a regional train.
How long is the bus from Rome to Pompeii?
The average travel time between Rome and Pompei is around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The fastest bus can get you there in about 3 hours, one way.
How much time do you need to explore Pompeii? Is 2 hours enough to see Pompeii?
It will take 2 full days to explore the entire Pompeii site. Most day tours will include 2 hours of guided walk, and this is enough to learn about the archaeological site and its history.
How to extend my trip beyond Pompeii? Things to do in and around Pompeii
When visiting Pompeii, there are plenty of things to do and see in the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure-filled getaway, there’s something for everyone near Pompeii.
Take some time to explore the area and discover why so many travelers come back year after year.
Naples
To begin with, the nearby city of Naples is a must-see. Not only does it offer delicious Neapolitan pizza and wonderful sightseeing opportunities, but it’s also home to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples which houses many artifacts from Pompeii.
You can book wine and food tours from Naples to nearby areas.
Mount Vesuvius
Another nearby attraction is Mount Vesuvius, the still active volcano that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD. You can take a hike up the mountain and marvel at its incredible views of Naples and the Bay of Sorrento. Be sure to bring your camera as the scenery is truly breathtaking!
Hikes, visit to winery and lunches are amazing in and around Mount Vesuvius.
Sorrento
For a change of pace, you can also visit nearby Sorrento. It’s an ideal day trip destination with its charming shops and restaurants, spectacular views of the Bay of Naples, and easy access to the Amalfi Coast.
Here you’ll find beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, and stunning cliffside roads perfect for exploring by car or scooter.
Many travelers keep Sorrento as a base and take day trips to the Coast. Read our 4 days in Amalfi Coast itinerary
Amalfi Coast Capri and coastal towns
And all around Pompeii lie some of Italy’s most beautiful places like the stunning Amalfi Coast. The area’s picturesque views, colorful villages, and crystal-clear waters make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
You can explore the coastal towns on foot or take boat tours to some of the nearby islands like Capri. There are lots of private tours that you can book as well to explore most of the charming towns and beaches without renting a car.
The island of Capri is another fantastic place to visit. From the cliffs of Anacapri to the Blue Grotto, there are so many things to explore and experience here. You can go swimming in crystal-clear waters, take a boat tour around the island, or just relax and take in the stunning views.
For foodies, a visit to Pompeii is also an opportunity to sample some of Italy’s most delicious dishes. From pizza and pasta to seafood and gelato, you’ll find something irresistible at every turn.
Take a food tour around Naples or explore one of the nearby towns like Sorrento or Amalfi for an unforgettable culinary experience.
From its incredible archaeological site to nearby attractions like Naples, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, and connections to the Amalfi Coast, there’s no shortage of things to do and see near Pompeii.
Rome Pompeii Tours: Final words
A trip to Pompeii offers something for everyone and should be on every traveler’s list. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning archaeological ruins, this is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, don’t forget to add Pompeii and Herculaneum to your itinerary!
Start planning your trip today and explore why Pompeii is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world.
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