Visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum is like stepping back in time to ancient Rome. Both cities were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, but they offer very different experiences.

If you want to explore on your own or prefer a guided tour, there are several ways to travel between them.

You can take a guided tour for a hassle-free experience, hop on a train for a quick and budget-friendly ride, catch a bus, or drive for more flexibility.

In this guide, we’ll break down all your options so you can choose the best way to visit these historic sites.

Top Tickets

# Full-Day Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour from Naples
# Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Tour from Rome
# Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour from Sorrento

It’s highly recommended to book your Pompeii and Herculaneum 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 and Herculaneum?

Visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum in one trip offers a unique and comprehensive look into ancient Roman life, as both cities, though buried by the same eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, tell different stories.

Pompeii, a bustling commercial hub, was covered in ash and pumice, preserving grand villas, frescoes, and public spaces that showcase the city’s social and political life.

In contrast, Herculaneum, a smaller but wealthier town, was buried under a thick layer of volcanic mud, which helped preserve wooden structures, furniture, and even food remains, offering an intimate look into daily domestic life.

By visiting both, you get a well-rounded perspective—Pompeii reveals the grandeur of a thriving Roman city, while Herculaneum gives a more personal and detailed glimpse into private homes and elite lifestyles.

How far is Herculaneum from Pompeii?

Herculaneum is located about 11 km (7 miles) from Pompeii, making it an easy and convenient trip between the two sites.

Travel time depends on the mode of transport, but the fastest and most popular option is the Circumvesuviana train, which takes about 15–20 minutes between Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri and Ercolano Scavi stations.

Buses also connect the two sites, though they can take longer due to traffic. If you prefer flexibility, taxis or rental cars offer a quicker and more direct journey, typically taking 15 minutes via the A3 highway.

Rome to Pompeii and Herculaneum

Day trips from Rome to Pompeii and Herculaneum

For a comfortable and stress-free journey, the Pompeii, Herculaneum & Vesuvius Tour by Luxury Bus from Rome offers premium transport and a relaxed experience.

If saving time is a priority, the Rome to Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour by Train provides a fast and efficient way to reach the sites, giving you more time to explore.

For those who prefer a fully guided experience, the Pompeii & Herculaneum Full-Day Tour from Rome includes expert commentary and well-organized transport, ensuring a deeper understanding of these ancient cities.

Public transportation from Rome to Pompeii and Herculaneum

By Train

Taking a train is the fastest and easiest way to reach Pompeii and Herculaneum from Rome.

• High-speed trains from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale take about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• From Naples, take the Circumvesuviana train:
  • Pompeii: Around 30 minutes
  • Herculaneum: Around 20 minutes
• Regional trains are a cheaper option but take about 2 hours to Naples.

By Bus

Some bus operators run direct services from Rome to Pompeii, taking 3–4 hours. There is no direct bus from Rome to Herculaneum; you would need to transfer in Naples.

Buses are cheaper than trains but less frequent and less comfortable.

By Car

Driving gives you flexibility, but parking can be tricky near the ruins. Get Directions

• The drive from Rome to Pompeii or Herculaneum takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
• The fastest route is via the A1 highway to Naples, then the A3 highway towards the sites.
• Parking can be expensive and limited, especially near Pompeii.

Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum

Day trips from Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum

Naples is the best starting point for visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum, as it is the closest major city to these historic sites. With trains, buses, and guided tours available, traveling from Naples is quick and hassle-free.

There are several great tour options based on your preferences:

• For a stress-free experience with guided visits and lunch included, check out the Pompeii & Herculaneum Day Tour with Lunch from Naples.
• If you want a detailed guided tour of both sites, the Full-Day Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour from Naples is a great choice.
• For a more personalized experience, the Private Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour lets you explore with an expert archaeologist for deeper insights.

Public transportation from Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum

Getting from Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum is quick and easy, with several public transportation options. The Circumvesuviana train is the fastest and most popular choice, while buses provide an affordable alternative. Driving is also an option if you prefer more flexibility, though parking near the ruins can be tricky.

By Train

Taking the train is the fastest and most convenient way to reach both sites.

• The Circumvesuviana train runs from Napoli Centrale (Piazza Garibaldi station):
  • To Herculaneum (Ercolano Scavi station): 15–20 minutes
  • To Pompeii (Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station): 30–35 minutes
• Trains run every 20–30 minutes, making it easy to plan your trip.
• The Campania Express is a more comfortable option with fewer stops and air-conditioning, but it runs less frequently.

By Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly option, though they can take longer than trains due to traffic.

• EAV and SITA buses run between Naples and Pompeii/Herculaneum.
• The journey takes about 40–50 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Buses depart from Napoli Porta Nolana or Naples Piazza Garibaldi.

By Car

Driving offers flexibility, but parking near the ruins can be challenging. Get Directions

• The drive from Naples to Pompeii or Herculaneum takes 25–35 minutes via the A3 highway.
• Parking is available near both sites but can be expensive and limited, especially in peak tourist seasons.
• Renting a car is only recommended if you plan to visit other locations in the area, like Mount Vesuvius or the Amalfi Coast.

Pompeii to Herculaneum

Visiting both Pompeii and Herculaneum in one trip is a great way to explore the ancient Roman world. Herculaneum is just 11 km (7 miles) from Pompeii, and you can get there in two ways—by booking a guided tour or transfer ticket or using public transportation.

Option 1: Book a Tour or Transfer Ticket

For a hassle-free journey, you can book one of these tickets that include transport between Pompeii and Herculaneum:

• Pompeii Train Transfer to Herculaneum: A convenient transfer ticket that lets you travel between Pompeii and Herculaneum by train, making the journey quick and easy.
• Pompeii & Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour: This English-guided tour includes skip-the-line access to both sites, saving you time and effort.
• Explore Pompeii & Herculaneum with an Archaeologist: A private tour with an expert guide, offering in-depth historical insights and seamless transportation between the sites.

Option 2: Travel by Public Transport

If you prefer to travel on your own, public transportation is a cheap and easy option:

• By Train: Take the Circumvesuviana train from Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri to Ercolano Scavi—it takes about 15–20 minutes, and trains run every 20–30 minutes.
• By Bus: Some local buses connect Pompeii and Herculaneum, but they can be slower due to traffic.
• By Taxi: A taxi ride takes around 15 minutes, but fares vary depending on the time and demand.

Herculaneum to Pompeii

If you’re exploring Herculaneum first, getting to Pompeii is easy since it’s just 11 km (7 miles) away. You have two main options—booking a tour that includes transport or using public transportation.

Option 1: Book a Tour with Transport

For a stress-free visit, you can book a ticket that includes both entry and transport between the sites:

• Herculaneum to Pompeii: Audioguides & Entrance Tickets: This ticket includes entry to Pompeii and an audioguide, making it a great option if you want to explore at your own pace while learning about its history.

Option 2: Travel by Public Transport

If you prefer to get there on your own, public transportation is affordable and convenient:

• By Train: The Circumvesuviana train from Ercolano Scavi to Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri takes about 15–20 minutes, with trains running every 20–30 minutes.
• By Bus: Local buses also run between the two sites, but they can be slower due to traffic.
• By Taxi: A taxi ride takes around 15 minutes, but prices may vary based on demand.

Tips for visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum

Some buildings in Pompeii may be temporarily closed for restoration—check for updates before your visit.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.

Spring (March- May) and Fall (September–November) are the best seasons for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as both sites have uneven, ancient stone streets.

Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen since most areas have little shade.

Carry a water bottle and some snacks, as food options inside are limited.

Pompeii takes around 3–5 hours to explore, while Herculaneum takes 1.5–2 hours—plan accordingly.

A guided tour can enhance your visit with historical insights and help you navigate the ruins efficiently.