Pompeii is one of Italy’s most iconic historical sites, and visiting from Salerno is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a convenient and rewarding day trip. 

Located just 40 km away, Pompeii is easily accessible by train, bus, or car, making it an ideal destination for history lovers, adventure seekers, and curious explorers. 

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Salerno to Pompeii, including transport options, ticket recommendations, travel tips, and expert advice to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Top Tickets

# Pompeii Half-Day Trip from Salerno
# Skip-the-Line Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Shore Excursion
# Salerno Private Pompeii Tour

It’s highly recommended to book your Salerno to Pompeii day tour tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

What’s ahead

Why visit Pompeii from Salerno?

Salerno is one of the best starting points for a trip to Pompeii, offering a quieter and more relaxed alternative to Naples. 

The city’s strategic location makes reaching Pompeii quick and easy, whether you travel by train, bus, or car. 

Unlike other busy hubs, Salerno provides a less crowded and more scenic journey, especially if you’re continuing to the Amalfi Coast or Mount Vesuvius after your visit.

A day trip from Salerno allows you to immerse yourself in Pompeii’s fascinating history without the hassle of long travel times.

Salerno to Pompeii by tour

Joining a guided tour from Salerno to Pompeii is an easy and hassle-free way to explore the ancient city. Tours take care of transport, let you skip the lines, and include expert guides who share fascinating stories about the ruins. It’s a great way to save time and ensure you see the highlights while learning about Pompeii’s history.

Types of guided tours

• Private Tours – Personalized experiences with a dedicated guide, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Ideal for families or small groups.
• Group Tours – Budget-friendly, shared tours with a set itinerary. Perfect for solo travelers or those who enjoy a social experience.
• Shore Excursions – Specifically designed for cruise passengers arriving in Salerno Port, offering efficient itineraries that fit within shore leave times.

What’s included in these tours?

Most guided tours from Salerno to Pompeii include:
✅ Roundtrip transport (by bus, train, or private vehicle)
✅ Skip-the-line entry tickets
✅ Professional English-speaking guide
✅ Some tours also include a visit to Mount Vesuvius or the Amalfi Coast

Recommended tours from Salerno to Pompeii

• Pompeii Half-Day Trip from Salerno – A guided group tour with roundtrip transport and priority entry.
• Skip-the-Line Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Shore Excursion – A shore excursion designed for cruise passengers, combining Pompeii with a scenic Amalfi Coast tour.
• Salerno Private Pompeii Tour – A fully private experience for travelers who want a customized and in-depth exploration of the ruins.
• Vesuvius & Pompeii with Audioguide and Roundtrip Transport – Ideal for those who want a self-paced experience with included train tickets, skip-the-line access, and an audio guide.

Salerno to Pompeii by train

Taking the train from Salerno to Pompeii is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to reach the ruins. You can choose between direct regional trains or a route via Naples, depending on their schedule and preference.

Train routes and schedules

There are two main ways to travel from Salerno to Pompeii by train:

1. Direct Train (Trenitalia Regional Line) – Runs from Salerno Centrale to Pompei station (Napoli-Salerno line).
   
   • Journey Time: 40 minutes
   • Final Stop: Pompei station (15-minute walk to Piazza Anfiteatro entrance)
2. Via Naples (High-Speed & Circumvesuviana Train)
   
   • Take a high-speed train (Frecciarossa or Italo) from Salerno to Napoli Centrale (40 minutes).
   • Transfer to the Circumvesuviana train (Naples-Sorrento line) from Napoli Centrale to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri (35 minutes).
   • This station is right next to Porta Marina, the main entrance to the ruins.

Ticket prices and where to buy them

• Direct Regional Train: Around €3 to €4 one-way
• High-Speed Train + Circumvesuviana: Around €15 to €20 total
• You can buy tickets at Salerno Centrale station (ticket counters or machines), Online via Trenitalia or Italo websites, or On mobile apps like Omio or Trainline

Travel time & tips for the journey

• Total Travel Time: 40-80 minutes, depending on route
• Best Train to Take: Morning trains (before 9 am) to avoid crowds
• Tip for a Smooth Journey: If you prefer comfort and speed, take the high-speed train via Naples. If you want a direct, budget-friendly option, go for the regional train.

Tour option with train transport

For a hassle-free experience, consider the Pompeii Guided Walking Tour from Salerno, which includes roundtrip train tickets, skip-the-line entry, and a guided tour. 

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, the Pompeii Entry + Audioguide + Roundtrip Train from Salerno is a great alternative, offering self-guided exploration with an audio guide.

Salerno to Pompeii by Bus

Taking a bus from Salerno to Pompeii is a budget-friendly option for travelers who prefer public transport over trains or guided tours.

Bus options and routes

The SITA Sud bus runs from Salerno (Via Vinciprova bus terminal) to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri, the closest stop to the Porta Marina entrance of the ruins. Some buses may also stop at Pompei city center, which requires a short walk to the site.

Timings, ticket prices & where to board

• Departure point: Via Vinciprova bus terminal, Salerno
• Journey duration: 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic
• Ticket price: Around €2 to €3 per person (one-way)
• Where to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the station, in tobacco shops (Tabacchi), or directly on the bus.
• First & last bus: Timings vary, but the first bus usually departs around 6 am, and the last bus back to Salerno is generally in the early evening.

Pros and Cons of taking the bus

✅ Affordable – One of the cheapest ways to reach Pompeii
✅ Direct Route – Drops you close to the ruins
✅ Scenic Drive – Enjoy views of the coastline along the way

❌ Traffic Delays – Travel time varies, especially during peak hours
❌ Limited Frequency – Buses are less frequent compared to trains
❌ Less Comfort – It can be crowded, especially in the tourist season

Guided tour option with bus transport

If you prefer a hassle-free visit with guided insights, the Pompeii Half-Day Trip from Salerno is a great choice. This tour includes roundtrip bus transport, skip-the-line entry, and a guided walking tour, making your visit seamless and informative.

Salerno to Pompeii by car

Driving from Salerno to Pompeii is a great option for travelers who want flexibility and convenience. The route is fairly straightforward, and having a car allows you to explore at your own pace.

Driving distance and route details

• Distance: Around 40 km (25 miles)
• Travel Time: 35–45 minutes, depending on traffic
• Best Route:
  • Take the A3/E45 highway (Autostrada Napoli-Salerno) towards Pompei.
  • Exit at Pompei Ovest for the closest access to the archaeological site.
  • Follow signs for “Scavi di Pompei,” which will lead you directly to the main entrances.

Parking options near Pompeii Ruins

There are several paid parking lots close to the Pompeii archaeological site:

• Parking Zeus (near Porta Marina entrance) – Secure lot with hourly and daily rates
• Piazza Immacolata Parking – A budget-friendly option near Pompei city center
• Camping Spartacus Parking – Located close to the ruins, offering full-day parking

🚗 Tip: Arrive early during peak seasons (spring & summer) as parking lots fill up quickly.

Rental car tips & road conditions

• Where to Rent a Car: You can rent a car from Salerno city center or Salerno train station, with major companies like Hertz, Europcar, and Avis.
• Road Conditions: The A3 highway is well-maintained, but local roads near Pompeii can be narrow and busy, especially during tourist season.
• Toll Fees: The A3 highway has small toll fees, so carry some cash or use a credit card. It may cost €5 to €10 in average for each toll.

Tips for visiting Pompeii

• Visit early morning (9 am) or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
• Spring and fall offer the best weather; summer can be very hot and crowded.
• Buy tickets online in advance to skip long queues.
• Free entry on the first Sunday of every month, but expect large crowds.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the ancient streets are uneven.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—most of the site is exposed.
• Carry a refillable water bottle; a few fountains are available inside.
• Pack light, as large bags may not be allowed.
• Plan your route to see key sites like the Forum, Amphitheater, House of the Faun, and plaster casts.
• A short visit takes at least 2 to 3 hours, while a detailed exploration can take up to 5 hours.
• Check train and bus schedules in advance to ensure a smooth return to Salerno.
• Confirm pickup points and return timings beforehand if you are on a guided tour.