What to know before visiting Pompeii
Before embarking on a day trip to Pompeii, there are several things you should know to make the most out of your visit. Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. The ancient Roman city was destroyed and preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and it is now an active archaeological site that offers a unique glimpse into the history of the Roman Empire.
One of the first things we should keep in mind is that Pompeii is located near Naples, which is a bustling city with its own attractions and culture. If we have time, we may want to consider exploring Naples before or after our visit to Pompeii. However, we should also be aware that Naples has a reputation for pickpocketing and other petty crimes, so we should take precautions to keep our belongings safe. As for Pompeii itself, we should be prepared to do a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. We should also bring a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen, as the site can get hot and sunny during the day.
Practical Information
When planning a visit to Pompeii, it’s important to have practical information in mind to make your experience smoother. In this section, we will cover essential information about tickets, getting to Pompeii, facilities, and luggage storage.
Ticket Information
Visitors can buy tickets online or at the ticket office. Online tickets are valid for one day, while tickets bought at the ticket office are valid for two consecutive days. The prices for tickets vary depending on the season, with higher prices during the peak season.
Free tickets are available for EU citizens under 18 years old, and for everyone on the first Sunday of each month. During the pandemic, it’s important to check the official website for updates on ticket prices and availability.
Getting to Pompeii
Pompeii is easily accessible by public transport. The SITA bus and the Circumvesuviana train both stop at Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station. Visitors can also drive and park at the parking lot near the entrance.
Facilities
Toilets are available throughout the site, and visitors can bring their own water bottles to fill up at the fountains. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the vending machines and the cafeteria.
Luggage Storage
Visitors can store their luggage at the luggage storage near the entrance for free. Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the site, so it’s recommended to store them before starting the visit.
Overall, having this practical information in mind will help you plan your visit to Pompeii and make the most of your experience.
Exploring Pompeii
When visiting Pompeii, exploring the ancient ruins is a must-do activity. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your exploration of Pompeii.
Highlights
Pompeii is a vast archaeological site, and it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start exploring. Some of the highlights you won’t want to miss include:
- The Forum: This was the center of Pompeii’s public life, and it’s where you’ll find some of the most impressive ruins, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Basilica.
- The Amphitheater: This is one of the oldest surviving amphitheaters in the world, and it’s a testament to the importance of gladiator games in ancient Roman culture.
- The House of the Faun: This was one of the largest and most impressive private residences in Pompeii, and it’s famous for its intricate mosaics.
- The Street of the Tombs: This is where you’ll find the final resting places of some of Pompeii’s wealthiest citizens.
Itinerary
To make the most of your visit to Pompeii, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the ruins, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time. Here’s a sample itinerary:
- 9:00 am: Arrive at Pompeii and pick up a map at the entrance.
- 9:30 am: Start exploring the ruins, beginning with the Forum.
- 12:00 pm: Take a break for lunch at one of the cafes near the entrance.
- 1:00 pm: Continue exploring the ruins, making your way to the Amphitheater and the House of the Faun.
- 4:00 pm: Finish up your visit with a stroll down the Street of the Tombs.
- 5:00 pm: Exit the site and head back to your accommodations.
Guided Tours
If you want to learn more about the history and archaeology of Pompeii, consider taking a guided tour. There are many options available, including private tours, group tours, and audio tours. Some of the benefits of a guided tour include:
- A knowledgeable guide who can answer your questions and provide context for what you’re seeing.
- A pre-planned itinerary that ensures you don’t miss any of the highlights.
- The opportunity to learn about the latest excavations and discoveries.
Audio Guide
If you prefer to explore Pompeii on your own, consider renting an audio guide. These devices provide audio commentary as you walk through the ruins, giving you a deeper understanding of what you’re seeing. Some of the benefits of an audio guide include:
- The ability to go at your own pace and explore the ruins at your leisure.
- Detailed explanations of the history and architecture of each site.
- The convenience of not having to carry around a physical guidebook.
Overall, exploring Pompeii is an unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time to ancient Rome. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the most of your visit and gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable archaeological site.
Sights to See
When visiting Pompeii, there are several must-see sights that will give you a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Here are some of the top sights to check out:
Houses
The houses in Pompeii are a fascinating look at the architecture and design of ancient Rome. One of the most impressive is the House of the Faun, which is named after a statue of a dancing faun that was found on the property. The house is filled with beautiful mosaics, frescoes, and other artwork that give us a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy elite in Pompeii.
Theatre
The theatre in Pompeii is one of the oldest surviving Roman theatres in the world. It was built in the 2nd century BC and could seat up to 5,000 people. Today, visitors can still see the stage, orchestra pit, and seating areas.
Amphitheatre
The amphitheatre in Pompeii is another impressive sight to see. It was built in the 1st century AD and could seat up to 20,000 people. Gladiatorial games and other events were held here, and visitors can still see the underground chambers where the animals and gladiators were kept.
Forum
The Forum was the center of public life in Pompeii. It was a bustling marketplace and gathering place for the city’s residents. Visitors can still see the remains of the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, and other important buildings in the Forum.
Lararium
The Lararium was a shrine to the household gods that was found in many Roman homes. The one in Pompeii is particularly well-preserved and gives us a glimpse into the religious practices of the ancient Romans.
Baths
The Stabian Baths in Pompeii are some of the oldest and most well-preserved Roman baths in the world. Visitors can still see the changing rooms, hot and cold pools, and other areas of the baths.
Brothel
The brothel in Pompeii is a fascinating look at the seedy underbelly of ancient Roman life. Visitors can still see the rooms where the prostitutes worked and the erotic artwork that adorns the walls.
Garden of the Fugitives
The Garden of the Fugitives is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The garden contains plaster casts of some of the victims of the eruption, including men, women, and children. It’s a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of human life.
Overall, visiting Pompeii is a unique and unforgettable experience that gives us a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient Romans. We highly recommend taking the time to explore these sights and learn more about this fascinating city.
Porta Marina Entrance
When visiting Pompeii, one of the first things to consider is which entrance to use. The Porta Marina entrance is the main entrance to the site, and it offers the most facilities and services. Here’s what you need to know about this entrance:
- Location: The Porta Marina entrance is located at the southwest corner of the site. It is easily accessible from the Circumvesuviana train line, which stops at the Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station. You can also reach the entrance by bus (D-E and SITA).
- Facilities: This entrance has the most facilities, including restrooms, a gift shop, a cafeteria, and an information point where you can rent audio guides and ask questions. There is also a free baggage storage area where you can leave your bags if they are larger than 30x30x15 cms.
- Hours: The Porta Marina entrance is open from 8:30 AM to 7 PM, with the last entrance at 5:30 PM. However, during peak season, the entrance may close earlier due to the high number of visitors.
- Wait time: Depending on the time and date of your visit, you can expect a wait time between 1-2 hours. To avoid long lines, it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
When using the Porta Marina entrance, keep in mind that it is the busiest entrance and may have longer lines than the other entrances. However, it offers the most services and facilities, making it a good choice for those who want to rent audio guides or have questions about the site.
Research and History
Before visiting Pompeii, it is essential to have some basic knowledge about the history of the city and the research that has been conducted over the years. Pompeii is an archaeological site that has been preserved for centuries, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pompeii was a Roman city that was destroyed in 79 CE when Mount Vesuvius erupted, covering it with ash and other volcanic debris. The city was rediscovered in the late 16th century, and the subsequent excavation of Pompeii and the surrounding areas in the mid-18th century marked the beginning of modern archaeology.
The research conducted at Pompeii has provided us with a wealth of information about life in ancient Rome. Historians and archaeologists have been able to learn about the city’s infrastructure, economy, social structure, and daily life through the artifacts and structures that have been uncovered.
It is important to note that the excavation of Pompeii has not been without controversy. Some historians have criticized the way the site has been preserved and presented to the public. However, it is still an incredibly valuable resource for anyone interested in ancient history.
When visiting Pompeii, it is helpful to have some background knowledge about the city’s history and the research that has been conducted. This will allow us to better appreciate the significance of the site and understand what we are seeing.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Pompeii, there are several nearby attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of our top picks:
Herculaneum
Herculaneum is another ancient Roman city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It is smaller than Pompeii but is better preserved. The buildings and artifacts here provide a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy Romans who lived in the city. Herculaneum is located just a few kilometers from Pompeii and can be easily reached by train or bus.
Sorrento
Sorrento is a charming coastal town located just south of Naples. It is known for its beautiful views of the Bay of Naples, colorful houses, and lemon groves. Sorrento is a great place to relax and enjoy the Italian way of life. It is also a good base for exploring the nearby Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. It is known for its steep cliffs, colorful houses, and crystal-clear waters. The towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello are particularly picturesque and are worth a visit. The Amalfi Coast can be reached by car or bus from Pompeii.
Positano
Positano is a small town located on the Amalfi Coast. It is famous for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and beautiful beaches. Positano is a popular destination for tourists and can get quite crowded during the summer months. However, it is still worth a visit for its stunning views and relaxed atmosphere.
Overall, there are many nearby attractions that are worth exploring when visiting Pompeii. Whether you want to learn more about ancient Roman history, relax on the beach, or enjoy the beautiful scenery, there is something for everyone in this part of Italy.
Visiting Pompeii is a fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans. We hope that this guide has provided you with practical information and historical context to make the most out of your visit.
When planning your trip, consider the time of year and weather conditions. Bring a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen as there is no shade in Pompeii. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and can be slippery.
It’s important to remember that Pompeii is an active archaeological site, and new discoveries are constantly being made. Respect the site by not touching or removing any artifacts and following the rules and regulations set by the authorities.
While exploring the ruins, take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the architecture and artwork. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Forum, the Amphitheatre, and the House of the Faun, among other attractions.
In conclusion, a visit to Pompeii is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique glimpse into the past. With a little preparation and an open mind, we can immerse ourselves in the history and culture of this ancient city.
