Experience only the best of PompeiiHeadout is an authorised and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
4.4/5
64k+ travellers from around the world love this
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of this venue.
Ancient ruins of Pompeii with columns and archway under a clear blue sky.
























































From happy customers

Loved by 46 million+
Ecaterina Pasicovschi
MD

Ecaterina

Moldova
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

Built 2,000 years ago... But how logical, functional, beautiful and cared for! The villas are perfectly integrated into the landscape, the windows offer magnificent views of the Neopolitan bay and mountains, socially significant buildings are striking in scale and proportions. Even drinking fountains (utilitarian in their purpose) are decorated with marble heads and arranged systematically and quite often! Aesthetics and harmony with nature amaze modern man, and how fantastic this city was 20 centuries ago .... I can't imagine!
Oleksand pereverzev
UA

Oleksand

Ukraine
Nov 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image
It was very easy to find the place to change the voucher for the tickets, and it was very close to the entrance. Pompeii looks amazing! You can walk there for a full day. Also, there is the official app where you can find descriptions of the places and an audio guide.
Pedro Bienes Bonet
ES

Pedro

Spain
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

Reception very correct. A 10 for the guide in Spanish Maria Laura, she explained everything very well, polite and with a lot of sympathy.
Bogdan Popescu
RO

Bogdan

Romania
Nov 2025
5/5

review-image
Pompeii was an amazing experience. The ruins are incredibly well preserved, and walking through the ancient streets feels like stepping back in time. It’s a big site with lots to explore, so comfortable shoes help. Overall, a fascinating and unforgettable visit.
Gabriele De Nicola
IT

Gabriele

Italy
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image

+2 more

The visit to the excavations of Pompeii with this guide was truly outstanding. Knowledgeable, clear and passionate, she managed to bring every corner of the ancient city to life with detailed explanations and engaging stories. The organization was impeccable and the itinerary well thought out. An experience that I recommend to anyone who wants to discover Pompeii in an authentic and in-depth way.
Raphael Costa verderosi
IE

Raphael

Ireland
Dec 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image
There was no guide in Portuguese but I managed to understand very well in Spanish and our guide was simply sensational. Without him I have no doubt that the tour would not be the same. Thank you
Tatjana Kaskura
GB

Tatjana

United Kingdom
Nov 2025
5/5

review-image
Amazing! Very large territory, many interesting historical objects. Special atmosphere. Shoes should be as comfortable as possible.
Paul Rowell
GB

Paul

United Kingdom
Oct 2025
5/5

review-image

review-image

review-image
A fantastic tour with a really knowledgeable guide. An unforgettable experience wandering the ancient streets of Pompeii


Overview

  • Ways to explore: Choose between standard timed entry or guided tours led by historians/archaeologists. Audio guides and physical guidebooks in multiple languages help you navigate over 170 acres of preserved temples, theaters, and frescoed villas.
  • Additional access: Upgrade to Pompeii Plus to visit the suburban villas such as the Villa of the Mysteries, Villa Diomede, and Villa Regina in Boscoreale, along with the Antiquarium Museum. A free shuttle connects these areas for easier movement between sites.
  • Queues & timing: Entry lines can reach one to two hours in high season. Booking Pompeii tickets with a reserved slot helps you start exploring sooner.
  • Guided value: Guided tours add structure and storytelling to a vast, largely unsignposted site. Small-group options of about fifteen guests allow more personal interaction.
  • Combos & day trips: Combine Pompeii with Vesuvius or Herculaneum for a two-site archaeological experience. Naples or Sorrento round-trip transfers are included in most combo tours.
  • Good to know: Most tickets include free cancellation within 24–72 hours and remain valid for an entire day.
  • Best upgrade: Choose an archaeologist-led guided tour for expert commentary and smoother navigation.

Compare your Pompeii ticket options

Ticket typeEntrance usedLines skippedSecurityIncludesGuideWhy pick thisCancellation policyPrice fromRecommended experience

Basic entry ticket

Porta Marina Inferiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Entry to main archeological park

No

• Cheapest option • Full freedom inside

Free cancelation up to 72 hrs

€24

Pompeii Tickets

Pompeii Plus ticket

Porta Marina Inferiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Ruins + suburban villas

No

• Extended access • Villa transfers via shuttle

Free cancelation up to 72 hrs

€29

Pompeii Plus Tickets

Entry + audio guide

Anfiteatro di Pompeii

Ticket line

Mandatory

Ruins + digital/physical multilingual audio guide

Audio

• Flexible pacing • Context without groups

Free cancelation up to 24 hrs

€25

Pompeii Audio Guide

Entry + guidebook

Porta Marina Superiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Ruins + printed multilingual guidebook

No

• Visual reference • Easy self-navigation

Free cancelation up to 24 hrs

€31

Pompeii Guidebook

Guided tour

Porta Marina Superiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Expert-led walk through Pompeii’s main highlights

Yes

• Saves ~1–2 hrs • Clear storytelling

Free cancelation up to 24 hrs

€31

Pompeii Guided Tour

Archeologist-led tour

Porta Marina Inferiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Research-driven storytelling on-site

Yes

• Expert depth • Personalized attention

Free cancelation up to 24 hrs

€49

Pompeii with Archeologist

Combo: Pompeii + Herculaneum

Porta Marina Superiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Priority entry to two archeological sites

No

• Compare outcomes of same eruption across 2 cities

No free cancelation

€40

Pompeii + Herculaneum

Combo: Pompeii + Vesuvius

Porta Marina Superiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Ruins + crater entry

Audio

• City + volcano • Complete context

Free cancelation up to 48 hrs

€55

Pompeii + Vesuvius

Guided day trips

Porta Marina Superiore

Ticket line

Mandatory

Transfers + guided visit

Yes

• Easy logistics • Long-range travel

Free cancelation up to 24 hrs

€42

Pompeii with Transfers

What to expect at Pompeii

Tour guide in Pompeii holding a map and briefing tourists.
Tourists exploring Pompeii ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Plaster cast of a victim's body surrounded by ancient pottery in Pompeii.
Guide explaining Pompeii ruins to tourists with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Female friends exploring ancient ruins at Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
1/5

First sight and entry

You arrive at Pompeii through the historic Porta Marina. The ancient stone-paved road unfolds beneath a warm sun as you pass olive trees and remnants of columns. Early visitors enjoy a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds entering the vast archaeological park.

Explore Pompeii’s ancient streets

Stroll along cobbled streets lined with preserved ruins and ancient murals. You pass by the bustling Forum, stately basilica, and remains of bathhouses that reveal everyday Roman life. The soft echoes of history set a deliberate, unhurried pace as you wander.

Discover Pompeii’s timeless heart

Reach the iconic Forum where ruins of temples and market stalls whisper stories of ancient life. Marvel at the amphitheatre and poignant plaster casts in the Garden of the Fugitives. This profound centerpiece evokes the tragedy and resilience of Pompeii.

Upgrade to guided insight

Opt for a guided experience to access hidden layers of Pompeii. With a knowledgeable archaeologist, discover exclusive routes including the Villa of the Mysteries and intimate commentary on frescoes. This upgrade streamlines your visit, reducing wait times and deepening your historical context.

Exit with lasting impressions

As you leave through the quieter Piazza Anfiteatro, the ancient ruins recede into a modern backdrop. The soft glow of the afternoon sun and distant view of Mount Vesuvius remind you of Pompeii’s enduring legacy. A reflective farewell concludes your journey.

Things to know before booking your Pompeii tickets

Booking window
• Tickets are best purchased online up to several days in advance during peak season.
• During busy months (April–August) and on free-entry Sundays, advance booking secures your preferred time slot and may reduce waiting times.

Entry & access
• All Pompeii tickets are for timed entry only; you must arrive within 15 minutes before or after your slot to be admitted.
• Timed entry tickets bypass the ticket counter but not the mandatory security check, where waits of around 15–30 minutes are common in peak conditions.

What’s included
• A standard Pompeii entry ticket grants access to the extensive open-air archaeological park. It covers the core ruins and main highlights found along ancient streets, baths, and public sites.
• Standard tickets do not include suburban villa circuits (such as the Villa of the Mysteries) unless you purchase the the 'Pompeii Plus' ticket.
• Optional add-ons like audio guides or guidebooks are available with select tickets to provide historical context for self-guided exploration.

Ways to explore
• Self-guided visits offer flexibility; using a map or audio guide can help you navigate the expansive ruins at your own pace.
Guided tours are ideal for efficient routing and insightful commentary that brings Pompeii’s history to life. These tours often include reserved entry and may feature small group sizes for a more personal experience.
• Combo tickets combine Pompeii with nearby attractions (such as Herculaneum or Mount Vesuvius) and sometimes include train or coach transfers from Naples or Sorrento, offering a fuller day-trip experience.

Policies
• All tickets are nominative and require a valid ID on entry (name on ticket must match name on ID). Once you leave the site, re-entry is not permitted.
• Dogs larger than 40cm or heavier than 10kg are not permitted. Service animals with valid certification are allowed.
• Note that while accessible routes are offered (such as the “Pompeii for all” path from Piazza Anfiteatro), the uneven terrain means not all areas are suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.

Explore the ruins at Pompeii

Temple of Apollo tickets
villa dei misteri pompeii tickets
Cave canem (beware of the dog) Roman mosaic at the entrance to the house of the tragic poet in Pompeii, Italy
temple of isis pompeii tickets
pompeii spectacula pompeii tickets
Stabian baths pompeii tickets
house of the vettii pompeii tickets
House of the faun
Forum of pompeii tickets
The gladiator's barracks have been reconstructed at Pompeii, a World Heritage Site, in Italy.
Interior of the Basilica of Pompeii, Naples Italy
1/11

Temple of Apollo

Dedicated to the Greek and Roman god Apollo, the temple has 48 Ionic columns and stands on a high podium. In this compound, you will find a statue of Apollo archer and the bust of Diana in the original locations that they were in before it was buried under debris.

Villa of the Mysteries

The site is fabled for its frescos which are believed to illustrate the initiation of a woman into a Greco-Roman mystery cult. It was discovered in 1910 and is said to have belonged to a wealthy family that resided in Pompeii during the Augustan Era.

The House of the Tragic Poet

This is a 2nd Century villa deemed to have the best interiors amongst all the houses in Pompeii due to the still-visible frescoes and elegant decor. Archaeologist Antonio Bonucci excavated the house in 1824.

The Temple of Isis

Dedicated to Isis, an Egyptian goddess, this was one of the first sites that surfaced when the Pompeii excavations began. Principal devotees of the temple are believed to be women, slaves, and freedmen.

Pompeii Spectacula

Pompeii Spectacula, the amphitheater of Pompeii, dates back to around 70 BC. It is not only the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater made of stone but also predates the Colosseum in Rome by over a century!

Stabian Baths

The Stabian Baths stand close to the Forum and are the oldest in the city. Much like other Roman baths, there were different rooms with thermal pools of different temperatures and depths.

Read more

House of the Vettii

Spanning an entire block, the House of Vettii is one of the largest in Pompeii, preserved in almost pristine condition. This luxurious Domus, through its fresco and pictorial depictions, tells a great deal about the rich merchants of Pompeii.

House of the Faun

Also known as Casa del Fauno, this house was built during the 2nd century BC and is found to be one of the largest and most impressive private residences in Pompeii. It houses 2 atriums, one intended for residence and the other for work.

Forum of Pompeii

The Forum was the hub of cultural and political life in Pompeii. It housed the marketplace, bathhouses, and a unique, cross-shaped courthouse that later influenced European churches.

Read more

Gladiator barracks

IIn Pompeii’s later years, the colonnaded structure behind the Theatre served as gladiator barracks. It housed a kitchen, mess hall, stables, and an armory. Excavations revealed helmets and ornate parade armor in several rooms.

Basilica of Pompeii

The Basilica of Pompeii, built in the 2nd century BC, was the town’s main law court and commercial hub. Located near the Forum’s west corner, it is one of Pompeii’s oldest and most significant public buildings.

Plan your visit to Pompeii

Tour guide explaining Pompeii victim cast to tourists.

April 1 to October 31: 9am to 7pm (Last entry: 5:30pm)

November 1 to March 31: 9am to 5pm (Last entry: 3:30pm)

Closed: December 25, May 1 and January 1

Duration: Ideally, it would take two days to complete an entire tour of the ruins; however, you can tour the major parts of the town within a day.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Pompeii is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it comfortable for exploring the archaeological site.

Detailed Pompeii hours

Address: 80045 Pompei, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

Find on Maps

Getting There

  • By Train: Circumvesuviana Napoli-Sorrento line, Circumvesuviana Napoli-Poggiomarino line, Train FS Napoli-Salerno
    Nearest stop: Pompei Villa dei Misteri Station for Porta Marina and Piazza Esedra entrances
  • By Bus: SITA from Napoli and Salerno, BUSITALIA Campania n. 4 from Salerno, BUSITALIA Campania n. 50 express coach from Salerno (by motorway)
    Nearest Stop: Pompei Piazza Esedra Stop
  • By car: Motorway A3 Napoli-Salerno, exit at Pompeii Ovest
    Car parking: Pompeii Ruins Parking, about 400 meters away.
Visitors reading information plaques on a Pompeii VIP small group tour.

Porta Marina Superiore: This is the main gate, located directly across the road from the Pompeii Scavi train station (100m away). Sees longer queues mid-morning.
Anfiteatro di Pompeii: Located to the east of the archeological site, this entrance is a 15-minute walk from Porta Marina and closer to the modern town of Pompei. A quieter entrance, this entrance is ideal for those with mobility issues.
Piazza Esedra (Porta Marina Inferiore): Alternative to the Superiore during peak season, this entrance is only marginally less crowded and is about 300m away from the Scavi station. Leads to the Antiquarium.

More on Pompeii entrances
Restroom sign with male, female, and wheelchair symbols on a pole.
  • Bookshop
  • Information office
  • First Aid
  • Refreshment points
  • Cloakroom service at the Porta Marina entrance (bags larger than 30x30x15 cms not allowed)
  • Smoking area
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Toilet facilities at the Porta Anfiteatro and Porta Marina entrances, the Pompeii Restaurant, and a few others.
Plan your visit to Pompeii
Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.

• Designated entry route for wheelchair users via Piazza Anfiteatro.
• Assistance available for uneven cobblestones and steps.
• Not all areas are fully accessible.

No littering sign in desert area with crossed-out trash symbols.
  • Valid tickets are required for entry; if there are any issues, please report to security.
  • Follow on-site rules: no littering, respect artifacts and no disruptive behavior.
  • No professional recording equipment allowed without permission.
  • Dogs over 10 kg aren't permitted, except for service dogs with a disability certificate.
  • Criminal offenses include damage, refusal to show documents, threats and indecency.
  • Violators face administrative penalties and removal from the park.
  • Groups must follow designated paths; max visitor limit is 15,000 at a time.
  • Visitors with mobility issues or health concerns should take caution due to the vast space and uneven terrain.
  • Pompeii tickets are nominative, meaning you need to provide the full names of all guests while booking. Ensure the names provided at checkout match your ID cards for a hassle-free entry.

Tips and guidelines

  • Avoid entering through Porta Marina after 10am since crowded queues slow entry and create tight bottlenecks at security lanes.
  • Begin your visit at the Forum by 9am: fewer groups allow cleaner flow and easier exploration of ancient streets.
  • Pause at the House of the Vettii courtyard earlier in the day for optimal viewing. The soft morning light clarifies vibrant fresco details.
  • Steer clear of the steep steps near the Stabian Baths during peak heat; uneven stone floors increase slip risks.
  • Respect designated paths at the Lupanar. Look out for restricted zones that enforce no touching to protect delicate wall artwork.
  • Use the quieter Piazza Anfiteatro entrance for a smoother start. Its open layout reduces navigation challenges and crowd pressure.
  • Avoid backtracking towards the Temple of Jupiter area when harsh sunlight falls; congested corridors compromise clear viewing.

Frequently asked questions about Pompeii tickets

Is the official Pompeii Express ticket enough for a first visit?

Yes, the official Pompeii Express ticket provides access to the main ruins. It covers the ancient city on a self-guided visit lasting about 2–4 hours. For suburban villas, consider an upgraded ticket option.

Should I opt for a guided tour or explore Pompeii on my own?

Guided tours are ideal if you want historical insights and efficient routing through Pompeii’s highlights. Self-guided tickets with an audio guide work well for visitors who prefer a flexible pace and independent exploration.

Do I need skip-the-line tickets for Pompeii?

Pre-purchased tickets help you bypass the ticket office queue, but they do not eliminate security checks or capacity controls. Skip‐the‐line branding generally covers only the purchase stage, so expect a short wait at security.

Can I combine a visit to Pompeii with nearby sites?

Combo tickets, such as those including Herculaneum or multi-day passes, work well if you plan to explore multiple Vesuvian sites. For a standalone visit, the standard Pompeii Express ticket is usually sufficient.

What are the typical entry wait times at Pompeii?

Wait times vary by season and time-of-day. Early mornings or shoulder seasons often see waits under 20 minutes, while summer afternoons and free‐entry Sundays can result in queues exceeding 30 minutes.

Is Pompeii accessible for visitors with limited mobility?

Pompeii’s uneven stone streets can be challenging. However, the “Pompeii for all” route from Piazza Anfiteatro offers a more accessible path, though visitors should still expect some ramps and uneven surfaces.

Does the standard ticket include access to suburban villas?

No, the standard Pompeii Express ticket covers only the central archaeological park. To visit sites like the Villa of the Mysteries, choose the city + villas ticket or a multi‐site pass.

How strict are the timed-entry slots at Pompeii?

Tickets are time-slotted to manage visitor flow. Arriving after your designated window may result in delays, as entry is subject to capacity controls and security checks at the gate.

Is advance booking recommended for Pompeii tickets?

Advance booking is advisable—especially during peak seasons and free‐entry Sundays—to secure a specific time slot and minimize waiting at the ticket office on busy days.

Are there guided tours available with skip‐the‐line entry?

Yes, many guided tours offer skip‐the‐line entry combined with expert commentary. They provide a structured 2–3 hour experience that efficiently covers key sites like the Forum, amphitheatre, and thermal baths.

What should I pack for a visit to Pompeii?

Wear comfortable, closed‐toe shoes and bring water, sun protection, and a hat. The open‐air ruins have uneven terrain and limited shade, so proper preparation is essential during hot days.

Can I re-enter Pompeii once I exit?

No, Pompeii tickets are single‐entry. Once you exit the park, you must purchase a new ticket if you wish to return on the same day.