Getting to Pompeii from Naples

The Pompeii Archaeological Park, a captivating window into ancient Roman life, is situated just southeast of Naples, approximately 24 km (15 miles) from the Napoli Centrale train station. 

This close proximity makes Pompeii an easy and compelling day trip from Naples. Whether you prefer the convenience of a taxi, the affordability of a bus, or the efficiency of a train, multiple public transportation options are available to help you reach this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Check out our exhaustive guide to discover the best ways to travel from Naples to Pompeii and make the most of your visit to this historical treasure.

Not sure which Pompeii entry tickets are right for you? Let us guide you through the best options, from skip-the-line tickets and guided tours to convenient day tours to Pompeii, to make the most of your visit!

Naples to Pompeii tours

Tourists who don’t want the hassle of navigating the public transport from Naples to Pompeii usually opt for one of the many tours. 

There are tours that take the whole day, and then there are also half-day tours. Some of these tours only include Pompeii, while some others include nearby attractions such as Mt Vesuvius, Herculaneum and Sorrento. 

Some of these tours include hotel pick up and drop off, while the others start from a central location in Naples. 

We list some of the best Naples to Pompeii tours below – 

Wondering how to reach Pompeii from different locations? Whether you’re coming from Rome, Amalfi, Sorrento, or Positano, we’ve gathered the best travel options to make your journey easy and hassle-free.

Route Map

By Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus from Naples to Pompeii, you have three options: the shuttle bus, Flixbus, and the SITA bus.

The SITA bus is the most affordable and frequent option for reaching Pompeii.

While Flixbus and shuttle buses offer more comfort, they are also more expensive than SITA buses.

SITA buses depart every hour from the Pompeii Scavi bus stop. You can catch the SITA bus route 5001 Napoli – Nocera – Salerno.

The journey to Pompeii costs between $2 and $3 one way and takes approximately 35 minutes.

Flixbus departs from Napoli Metropark Centrale at 10.45 am and arrives in Pompeii at 11.20 am.

You can board the bus at 6 pm for your return trip, arriving in Naples at 6.35 pm.

For the best bus experience, choose the shuttle bus from Naples to Pompeii.

Two shuttle buses depart from Naples daily between 9.20 am and 11.05 am.

Related: Explore Pompeii with convenient day tours departing from Naples, Rome, Sorrento, Amalfi, and Positano.

Note: If you want to save time without worrying about going to the bus terminal and waiting for the bus, we highly recommend you to go on a guided tour from Naples to Pompeii, which includes round-trip, live tour guide (in Spanish, English, Italian, and French), optional audio guide. This ticket costs €59. If you are looking for a cheaper ticket, choose a Round-Trip Shuttle Bus to Pompeii, which costs €21.

By Train

Train travel is the most practical and straightforward way to get from Naples to Pompeii, offering a convenient and scenic journey. Most visitors catch the train from Porta Nolana Train Station to Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri Train Station, the closest stop to the archaeological site.

The EAV Circumvesuviana Train, though slower, is very popular due to its high frequency and affordability. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, and tickets are available at the station or online. Trains run throughout the day.

The Campania Express is a more tourist-friendly and comfortable version of the Circumvesuviana train, ideal for those looking for a smoother ride. The journey time is similar to the Circumvesuviana, and tickets can be purchased at the station or online. The Campania Express runs seasonally with a limited schedule.

For those preferring Trenitalia, the Trenitalia Regional/Metropolitan Trains require a change at Torre Annunziata to reach Pompeii. The combined journey typically takes a bit longer due to the transfer, and tickets are available at the station or online.

Plan your visit to Pompeii:

# Discover Pompeii’s opening hours and timings
# Find the best entrance for your Pompeii adventure
# Explore the must-see highlights of Pompeii
# Get essential tips for an unforgettable visit to Pompeii

Learn about the facilities available onsite, familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for visitors, and enjoy convenient dining and refreshment spots within Pompeii. For a complete experience, you’ll also find nearby hotels for a comfortable stay after a day of exploration.

Practical Tips:

Numerous trains cover the short distance between Naples and Pompeii, making it easy to find a departure time that suits your schedule. The last train from Pompeii to Naples departs at 10:21 PM. If you miss it, you may need to stay overnight in Pompeii or arrange alternative transportation back to Naples.

Opting for the train not only ensures a hassle-free journey but also allows you to enjoy the charming Italian countryside as you travel. Whether you choose the frequent Circumvesuviana, the comfortable Campania Express, or the comprehensive Trenitalia service, you’ll find the train to be an efficient way to reach the historic ruins of Pompeii.

If you want an up-and-down ticket to Pompeii, you can take the Porta Nolana Train Transfer to/from Pompei.

By Car

Once you start your journey from Naples, head toward the A3 motorway, the primary route connecting Naples with the southern region of Italy. Observe the directions pointing towards Salerno/Reggio Calabria on the A3/E45 expressway.

Depending on whatever area of the site you want to see, continue on the A3 for approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) and take the Pompeii exit, Pompei Ovest, or Pompei Est.

Following your departure, proceed to the Pompeii archeological site by following the indications in the area. Porta Marina is the major entrance, and it is clearly marked. 

There are several parking lots nearby; just be sure you park in the visitor-designated spaces, which are easily identifiable and close to the major doors.

If you wish to go on a Mercedes Benz with AC and onboard Wi-Fi and hear the driver’s live commentary about Pompeii Roman history from Naples and vice versa, follow the link.