Pompeii is an extensive site with uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. There is little shade, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially during summer. Guided tours and audio guides are available for deeper insights into the ruins. While there are some small cafes nearby, packing snacks is a good idea. Be sure to check the official website for entrance fees and any temporary closures before your visit.

Pompeii is easily accessible from Naples, Sorrento, and other nearby cities. The easiest way to get there is by train. The Circumvesuviana train line connects Naples to Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station in about 30–40 minutes. From Sorrento, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. If you’re driving, there are parking areas near the entrance, but they can fill up quickly. Organized tours from Naples or the Amalfi Coast also provide convenient transport with expert guides.

The best time to visit Pompeii is during the spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summer months can be extremely hot and busy, so arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps avoid the worst of the heat and crowds. Winter visits can be enjoyable with fewer tourists, but some areas may be closed due to weather conditions.

A day trip to Pompeii is an excellent addition to any itinerary in southern Italy. Many visitors combine Pompeii with a visit to Mount Vesuvius, where you can hike to the crater of the volcano that destroyed the city. Another great pairing is Herculaneum, a nearby ancient Roman town preserved in a similar eruption but with even more intact buildings and frescoes. If you have more time, consider exploring Naples’ Archaeological Museum, which houses many original artifacts from Pompeii.