For our last full day in Naples Italy we wanted to do a day trip to Pompeii and Vesuvius volcano.
Find Hotels in Naples
If you’re planning a similar trip, staying in Naples makes it easy to use the city as a base for Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
Searching for the Right Bus to Mount Vesuvius, Near Pompeii Italy
After waking up in the morning, we made our way to Garibaldi train station and took a train to Ercolano. Once there, we understood that we had to locate a particular bus that would take us up to Vesuvius.
After some searching, we found a bus station, but unfortunately, it wasn’t the correct one. The locals there encouraged us to board the same bus as them, which we eventually did. They told us to get off at the end of the line. Then, we should walk about 5 km to get to the top of Vesuvius. It was a bad choice and we ended up skipping the visit to the Vesuvius. We walked uphill for a while under the scorching sun, with little shade and nothing to cover our heads. Finally, we came across the right bus coming down from the top of Vesuvius and took it back to Ercolano.
Compare Pompeii & Vesuvius Tours
Our experience taught us that visiting Pompeii and Vesuvius independently can require quite a bit of planning. If you prefer a simpler option, you can book an organized day trip from Naples with transportation to the archaeological sites and Mount Vesuvius included
The Story of Mount Vesuvius – The Volcano that Buried Pompeii Italy
Mount Vesuvius, located near the Bay of Naples in southern Italy, is one of the most famous and active volcanoes in the world. Notably, the catastrophic eruption in AD 79 buried the Roman cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and several others under thick layers of volcanic ash and pumice. This eruption is one of the deadliest in European history. It remarkably preserved the cities. This preservation provides valuable archaeological insights into Roman life.
Vesuvius has erupted many times since AD 79. The most recent major eruption occurred in 1944 during World War II. Although it has remained dormant since then, experts consider it one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world because of its proximity to densely populated areas, including the city of Naples.
Vesuvius is part of the Campanian volcanic arc, which is formed by the subduction of the African plate beneath the Eurasian plate. The volcano’s structure is characterized by a large cone inside a caldera formed by the collapse of an earlier, much larger volcano. This complex geology contributes to Vesuvius’ explosive and unpredictable eruptions.
Today, scientists closely monitor Vesuvius for signs of activity, while at the same time, many tourists visit the surrounding area, which functions now a national park (https://www.parconazionaledelvesuvio.it).
Exploring Vesuvius National Park Before Visiting Pompeii
During our hike we got to an informational board. The board listed entry fees as 8 euros, which are now 10 euros. It indicated the different operating hours based on the month. These hours range from 16:00 to 18:00, depending on the season.
The map highlighted hiking paths or trails leading to the crater of the volcano. It showed the specific points of interest marked (the crater and viewing spots). It also mentioned a shuttle service (“servizio navetta”) for a one-way trip costing €1.00 for over an hour.
This guide was designed specifically for tourists visiting the Vesuvius National Park, providing detailed information on how to access and hike around the active volcano. Visitors could not only hike up to the crater but also explore the scenic views and, furthermore, learn more about the region’s geological significance.
Vesuvius Hiking Essentials
If you plan to hike around Vesuvius, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection and plenty of water are essential, especially during the warmer months.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Choose comfortable and supportive walking shoes to make hiking around Vesuvius easier and more enjoyable.
Reusable Water Bottles
Stay hydrated during your hike with a reusable water bottle that is easy to carry and refill.
Sun Hats & Travel Accessories
Protect yourself from the sun and stay prepared with practical travel accessories for your Vesuvius adventure.
Budget Travel Accessories
Everything you need to prepare for your Vesuvius adventure in one place. Browse budget-friendly travel accessories on AliExpress.
From Mount Vesuvius to the Ancient City of Pompeii, Italy
Heading back to Ercolano, we took the L1 train from Ercolano Scavi to Pompei Scavi Villa Dei Misteri station, and within 20 minutes, we arrived
Feeling very hungry, we began searching for a place to have lunch; consequently, we decided to enter the first tourist restaurant we found, where we enjoyed some set menus. After that, we went to visit Pompeii.
See Pompeii & Vesuvius Day Trips from Naples
If you want to make the day easier, organized Pompeii and Vesuvius excursions from Naples can combine transportation and sightseeing in one itinerary, so you don’t have to work out each train and bus connection yourself.
First Impressions of Pompeii – A City Frozen in Time
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city located near modern-day Naples in the Campania region of Italy. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, known for being incredibly well-preserved after being buried under volcanic ash and pumice following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Find Hotels in Pompeii
If you prefer to stay closer to the archaeological site instead of returning to Naples, there are also hotels and guesthouses within walking distance of the Pompeii ruins
Pompeii was a thriving Roman city with a population of approximately 11,000 people. It was a prosperous trading town known for its advanced architecture, villas, baths, theaters, and temples. However, on August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted violently, covering Pompeii, along with neighboring Herculaneum, in several meters of ash and debris. The city was lost for nearly 1,700 years until its accidental rediscovery in the 18th century.
The thick layer of ash that buried Pompeii effectively preserved the city. Thus, this preservation gives us an unparalleled glimpse into everyday life in ancient Rome. Buildings, mosaics, frescoes, and also pottery were frozen in time. Even the remains of the residents were preserved. These finds provide valuable insights into Roman urban planning, art, and social structures. Excavations have revealed homes, shops, streets, public baths, and temples. They show details such as furniture, graffiti, and food remnants. Other archaeological sites rarely preserve these details.
The Best Things to See at Pompeii, Italy
- Forum: The main public square of Pompeii, which was surrounded by important buildings like temples and government offices.
- Amphitheater: A large arena where gladiator games and other public spectacles were held.
- House of the Faun: One of the largest and most luxurious residences in Pompeii, famous for its intricate mosaics, including the famous “Alexander Mosaic.”
- Lupanar: Pompeii’s most famous brothel. It features explicit frescoes that preserve and reveal Roman attitudes towards sexuality.
- Villa of the Mysteries: A well-preserved villa on the outskirts of Pompeii, famous for its striking frescoes depicting initiation rites of a mystery cult.
- Plaster Casts: Archaeologists made plaster casts of voids left in the ash layer by decomposed bodies, capturing the final moments of many of Pompeii’s inhabitants as they tried to escape the disaster.
Today, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually. Visitors can explore the ruins, walking through the streets and entering buildings that give a vivid picture of ancient life. Pompeii remains an extraordinary time capsule of Roman civilization, offering insights into the daily life, art, and architecture of a world that existed nearly 2,000 years ago. Website: https://pompeiisites.org. Ticket prices vary now between 18 – 35 euros per person. Back in 2017 we paid a lower price.
See Guided Pompeii Tours
If you want more context while exploring the ruins, a guided Pompeii tour can be a good option. Instead of simply walking through the ancient streets, you can have a guide explain the buildings, mosaics and daily life of the city.
Exploring the Amphitheater – Ancient Entertainment in Pompeii, Italy
After the entrance we got to the Amphitheater of Pompeii.
This amphitheater stands as one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters, and it remarkably preserves its original structure.
Gladiators fought in it and people attended public spectacles there. Moreover, it could hold around 20,000 spectators.
The Palaestra of Pompeii – Ancient Sports and Daily Life in Italy
Then, next to the Amphitheater is the Palaestra (a large sports complex) with a swimming pool and exercise area.
Shop Comfortable Travel Shoes
Pompeii involves several hours of walking over ancient stone streets and uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are definitely worth packing.
The Large Palaestra consists of an expansive open-air courtyard. It measures roughly 140 by 140 meters. A high, battlemented wall encloses the courtyard, while porticoes border it on all four sides. Ten doorways provide access to the complex. Along three sides of the courtyard once stood ancient plane trees, of which only the root molds remain, preserved since the eruption. At the center lies a rectangular pool measuring 23 by 35 meters. The Palaestra was constructed during the Augustan era in the early 1st century AD. It served as a space for the physical and intellectual training of young citizens. Over time, visitors inscribed numerous poetic and erotic graffiti on its walls and columns. Excavations uncovered many victims inside the structure, who had sought refuge or escape in vain.
Today, the Palaestra hosts a permanent exhibition. It showcases the magnificent frescoes and artifacts. These were recovered from the Complex of the Moregine Triclinia. This is an important site located about 600 meters from Pompeii near the ancient river port.
Walking the Streets of Pompeii, Italy – Discovering Via dell’Abbondanza
Then, after the Palestra we walked towards the streets of the ancient city.
We took the photo above while exploring one of the ancient streets of Pompeii. Large stone blocks and ruins line both sides of the street, thus giving it its distinctive character. Then we arrived to the main street of the ancient city, Via dell’Abbondanza.
Crossbody Bag
A small crossbody bag is also useful for a long day of sightseeing, especially when you are carrying your phone, tickets, water and other small essentials.
Ancient Houses and Temples Along Via dell’Abbondanza, Pompeii Italy
Via dell’Abbondanza was lined with homes, shops, and also public buildings:
– Teatro Grande, used for plays and performances, then the smaller Odeon Theater, which was used for more intimate performances or musical recitals, both located in Pompeii’s entertainment district.
– House of the Faun (Casa del Fauno) – one of the largest and most luxurious houses in Pompeii, takes its name from a bronze statue of a dancing faun discovered inside the residence. It’s famous for its mosaics, including the famous Alexander Mosaic, which depicts the Battle of Issus between Alexander the Great and Darius III. Many other elite homes are nearby, making this area rich in Pompeii’s residential history.
– House of the Vettii (Casa dei Vettii) – This home is notable for its beautifully preserved frescoes and artwork. They depict mythological scenes and nature motifs. It belonged to wealthy merchants and is one of the most popular sites for visitors.
– The Temple of Isis – Worshipers dedicated the well-preserved Temple of Isis to the Egyptian goddess Isis. It was popular among freedmen and slaves.
– The Bakery of Popidius Priscus – Located off Via dell’Abbondanza, demonstrates how ancient Pompeiians produced bread. You can still see the millstones and ovens they used to bake.
– The Stabian Baths (Terme Stabiane) – Located off Via dell’Abbondanza, the Stabian Baths are one of the oldest and best-preserved bath complexes in Pompeii. People used the baths for socializing and relaxing, with separate areas for genders and also a variety of rooms for hot, warm, and cold baths. The Baths also have a palaestra (gymnasium) and a swimming pool.
– Lupanar (Brothel) – Pompeii’s most famous brothel, the Lupanar. It contains well-preserved erotic frescoes and stone beds, and it offers a fascinating insight into the private lives of Pompeii’s inhabitants. This area also features many shops and taverns, showing the commercial aspect of Pompeii.
The Forum of Pompeii Italy – Political and Religious Heart of the City
Then, at the end of Via dell’Abbondanza we found The Forum.
It was the political, religious, and also economic center of Pompeii.
Important buildings—including the Basilica (used for legal matters), the Temple of Apollo, and also the Temple of Jupiter—surrounded this large open area. These structures were all key parts of Pompeii’s both civic and religious life.
The Forum of Pompeii is, in fact, one of the most significant areas of the ancient city. Additionally, the large bronze statue of a centaur seen in the center of the photo is a modern addition, placed there as part of an art installation by the sculptor Igor Mitoraj. Consequently, this striking statue now stands prominently within the Forum area, blending contemporary art with the city’s ancient ruins.
Explore Pompeii Guided Tours
If you want to understand the history behind the ruins rather than simply walk through them, a guided Pompeii tour can make the Forum, temples and ancient houses much easier to appreciate.
This space also functioned as a place for public gatherings, political speeches, and also socializing.
Temples and Monuments of Pompeii – Exploring the Forum Area
Other significant locations in and around the Forum would be:
- The Temple of Jupiter – Located at the northern end of the Forum, it is one of the most prominent temples in Pompeii and is dedicated to Jupiter, the chief deity in Roman mythology.
- The Basilica – People used the large, rectangular Basilica for legal proceedings and also business transactions. It sits on the west side of the Forum.
- The Macellum – Specifically, the Macellum functioned as the market building, where vendors sold foodstuffs such as meat and fish. It is located to the northeast of the Forum.
- The Temple of Apollo – On the west side of the Forum, this temple is one of the oldest and most significant in Pompeii, dedicated to the god Apollo. Its columns and altar are still standing today.
The Temple of Apollo in Pompeii was one of the city’s main temples and thus it held an important religious role in the community. Although the bronze statue of the god Apollo is modern, it evokes ancient themes and stands precisely where the ancient temple once stood.
Compare Pompeii, Herculaneum & Vesuvius Tours
Planning your own Pompeii and Vesuvius day from Naples? If the public-transport connections feel complicated, an organized tour can save time and make it possible to combine the main sights in one day.
Ending the Day with Pizza in Naples After Visiting Pompeii
After we returned to Naples, we finally got to our hotel room and rested for a while. Then, after changing, we went out for dinner. We decided to walk to Via dei Tribunali, and ultimately chose to spend our last evening in Naples at Pizzeria Dal Presidente, ttp://www.dalpresidentepizzeria.it/.
Pizzeria Dal Presidente is a famous pizzeria located right in the heart of Naples. Over time, it gained widespread popularity, especially after former President Bill Clinton visited in 1994 and dined there during the G7 summit. This is where the name “Dal Presidente” (meaning “From the President”) originates. Inside the restaurant there was a classic Italian decor with framed photos on the walls, adding to its authentic vibe.
The pizzeria not only follows traditional methods but also uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create its classic Neapolitan pizza. Consequently, we decided to try one of the signature pizzas at Pizzeria Dal Presidente, which, moreover, featured various toppings carefully arranged in distinct sections around the crust.
In 2017, prices for pizza at Pizzeria Dal Presidente were relatively affordable, with a typical Margherita pizza costing around €5-6. More elaborate pizzas with additional toppings might have cost lightly more, around €8-12. Although prices have increased recently due to inflation and the growing fame of the restaurant, Pizzeria Dal Presidente still manages to offer reasonably priced pizzas, which remain in line with those of typical Neapolitan pizzerias. A pizza Margherita now may cost around €7-9, with more elaborate options priced between €10-15. Therefore, the pizzeria remains a popular destination for pizza enthusiasts looking to experience traditional Neapolitan pizza in a historic setting.
Day 6 – Saying Goodbye to Naples
The next day we were leaving. Since our flight was at noon, we still had some time to take one last stroll through the tiny alleys of the historic center. First, we wandered down Via dei Tribunali, and then we continued on to Via San Gregorio Armeno, where we bought some souvenirs.
San Gregorio Armeno is also a great place to look for traditional Neapolitan-inspired souvenirs and small gifts to take home.
Packing Cubes for Travel
Packing the right travel essentials can make your trip much more comfortable. Here are some of our favorite travel products that we always bring along and highly recommend.
Exploring San Gregorio Armeno Market in Naples Before Leaving Italy
At the San Gregorio Armeno street market, which is famous for its handcrafted nativity scenes and figurines, we discovered a wide variety of playful and satirical pieces. Among them, there was a particularly humorous sculpture depicting two football players—one appearing to bite the other. This cleverly referenced the famous incident during the 2014 FIFA World Cup when Uruguay’s Luis Suárez bit Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini. Other caricatured figures—such as politicians, musicians, and public figures—surrounded this scene, reflecting common themes in Neapolitan art.
There was a colorful and crowded display of figurines, many of which included depictions of famous Italian and international figures from various walks of life. As we explored, we noticed caricatures of celebrities, footballers, and historical figures, all often exaggerated in style; furthermore, there were musicians depicted holding their instruments. The market specializes in these eclectic, hand-painted figurines, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary satire.
Read On
Continue exploring — from hidden corners to grand vistas, there’s much more to discover. More info on Pompei and Naples you can also find here and here. For more inspiration and practical tips on visiting Italy, grab our maps and travel guides and also head over to our Italy Travel Hub and Italy Bucket List — your starting point for all things Italian! And if you’re looking to expand your itinerary, don’t miss our posts on Rome and Vatican experiences, and also our day trips to Nemi, Tivoli and Riviera di Ulisse.
Plan Your Naples & Surroundings Trip
Planning a trip to Naples? From the historic streets of Naples and the fascinating underground tunnels to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, there is plenty to explore. Here are some of the travel resources and practical essentials we recommend for planning your own adventure in southern Italy.
Find Hotels in Naples
Naples is a great base for exploring southern Italy. Staying in the city gives you easy access to historic attractions, restaurants, Naples Central Station and transport connections to Pompeii, Sorrento and other destinations.
You can choose from hotels in the historic centre, accommodation near Napoli Centrale or properties in quieter areas of the city. Compare different options and locations before booking your stay.
Explore Naples on a Walking Tour
One of the best ways to experience Naples is on foot. Wander through the historic centre, discover colourful streets and historic churches, see Spaccanapoli and experience the unique atmosphere of this fascinating Italian city.
A guided walking tour can also help you discover the history, traditions and hidden corners of Naples while learning more about the city from a local guide.
Discover Naples Underground
Beneath the busy streets of Naples lies another world of tunnels, caves, ancient passages and archaeological remains. Naples Underground is one of the city’s most fascinating experiences and offers a completely different perspective on the history of Naples.
If you enjoy history and unusual attractions, consider adding a guided Naples Underground tour to your itinerary.
Experience Naples Street Food
Food is one of the highlights of visiting Naples. From traditional pizza and fried snacks to pastries and local specialties, the streets of Naples are full of flavours worth discovering.
A guided street food tour is a great way to sample local dishes while exploring the historic centre and learning about Neapolitan food traditions.
Visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
A trip to Naples would not be complete without visiting Pompeii. The ancient city offers an incredible glimpse into Roman life and was preserved after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
You can combine Pompeii with a visit to Mount Vesuvius on a day trip from Naples. This is a convenient option if you want to see both attractions without arranging all the transportation yourself.
Take a Boat Trip to Capri
Capri is one of the most spectacular destinations near Naples. A boat trip gives you the chance to enjoy the Mediterranean coast, dramatic cliffs, sea caves and beautiful views of the island.
Depending on the tour, you may have time to explore Capri and Anacapri, swim in the sea or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat.
Explore Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
The spectacular coastline south of Naples is perfect for a day of scenic views and charming towns. Explore Sorrento, admire the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast and discover colourful coastal villages along the way.
An organized day trip from Naples can be a convenient way to see several highlights without worrying about driving, parking and navigating the winding coastal roads.
Naples Travel Essentials
Exploring Naples, Pompeii, Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast means plenty of walking, sightseeing and time outdoors. These practical travel essentials can make your trip more comfortable and help you stay organized while exploring southern Italy.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Naples on foot, walking through Pompeii and spending long days sightseeing. Choose supportive walking shoes that can handle cobblestone streets, uneven surfaces and plenty of steps.
Passport Holder
Keep your passport, cards and important travel documents together in one convenient place. A passport holder is especially useful when moving between airports, trains, ferries and hotels.
Anker Power Bank
A power bank is useful when your phone is working overtime for Google Maps, photos, tickets, restaurant bookings and travel information. Keep a portable charger in your day bag so you can recharge while exploring.
EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
A universal travel adapter is useful for charging your phone, camera, power bank and other electronics during your trip. A compact adapter helps keep all your devices ready for a full day of sightseeing.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important when spending long days walking around Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. An Owala or Hydro Flask reusable bottle is easy to carry and refill throughout your trip.
Pacsafe Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag
A secure crossbody bag is convenient for carrying your phone, passport, wallet and other small essentials while sightseeing. An anti-theft design can provide additional peace of mind in busy streets, train stations and crowded tourist areas.
Compression Packing Cubes
Compression packing cubes help organize clothes and make better use of the space inside your suitcase. They are particularly useful when moving between several hotels or destinations during an Italy trip.
Waterproof Phone Pouch
A waterproof phone pouch is handy for Capri boat trips, beach days and other activities around the coast. It can help protect your phone from splashes while keeping it accessible for photos.
Foldable Backpack
A lightweight foldable backpack is useful for day trips to Pompeii, Vesuvius, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. It folds down small when you do not need it and gives you extra carrying space when exploring for the day.
Luggage Tags
Luggage tags make it easier to identify your suitcase at the airport, especially when travelling with checked baggage. Choose a durable tag with your contact details securely hidden or protected.
Cable Organiser
Keep charging cables, USB adapters, memory cards and small electronics organized in one place. A compact cable organiser makes it much easier to find your accessories when changing hotels or heading out for the day.
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Exploring Naples and Surroundings
Naples is a destination that rewards curiosity. The city can feel chaotic and energetic, but that is part of its character. Take your time exploring the historic streets, stop for pizza or traditional street food and leave room for unexpected discoveries.
Beyond Naples, you can easily build an itinerary around Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Each destination offers a completely different experience, from ancient Roman history to dramatic coastal scenery and island adventures.
Where to Eat in Naples
Discover restaurants in Naples, from traditional Neapolitan pizzerias and authentic trattorias to casual street-food spots and stylish restaurants. Try fresh pasta, local seafood, classic Neapolitan pizza and delicious pastries while experiencing the vibrant food culture of southern Italy.
You can also discover restaurants and dining experiences in Sorrento, Capri and along the Amalfi Coast, where local cuisine comes with beautiful coastal scenery.
Planning Your Own Naples Adventure?
Start planning your trip to Naples and explore the best of southern Italy. Combine the historic streets and food culture of Naples with day trips to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, scenic adventures in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, and a boat trip to beautiful Capri.
With the right accommodation, tours and travel essentials, you can make the most of your time exploring Naples and its spectacular surroundings.
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Exploring Naples
Experience Naples through its historic streets, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating mix of ancient and modern Italy.
Amalfi Coast
Discover dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, scenic coastal roads, and beautiful Mediterranean views along Italy’s iconic Amalfi Coast.
Naples – Day 2
Continue discovering Naples with its historic landmarks, lively neighborhoods, local flavors, and authentic Neapolitan atmosphere.
Capri
Explore Capri’s stunning coastline, charming streets, hidden coves, and iconic landmarks on this unforgettable island escape.
Table of contents
- Searching for the Right Bus to Mount Vesuvius, Near Pompeii Italy
- From Mount Vesuvius to the Ancient City of Pompeii, Italy
- First Impressions of Pompeii – A City Frozen in Time
- The Best Things to See at Pompeii, Italy
- Exploring the Amphitheater – Ancient Entertainment in Pompeii, Italy
- The Palaestra of Pompeii – Ancient Sports and Daily Life in Italy
- Walking the Streets of Pompeii, Italy – Discovering Via dell’Abbondanza
- Ancient Houses and Temples Along Via dell’Abbondanza, Pompeii Italy
- The Forum of Pompeii Italy – Political and Religious Heart of the City
- Temples and Monuments of Pompeii – Exploring the Forum Area
- Ending the Day with Pizza in Naples After Visiting Pompeii
- Day 6 – Saying Goodbye to Naples
- Read On
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Day 5 & 6: Vesuvius, Pompeii & Naples Farewell
Related:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Day 5 & 6: Vesuvius, Pompeii & Naples Farewell
1. What was the plan for Day 5?
On Day 5, we planned a day trip from Naples to Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii, combining a volcano visit with a tour of the ancient Roman city preserved by ash from the 79 AD eruption.
2. How did you get to Vesuvius from Naples?
We took a train from Naples Garibaldi station to Ercolano Scavi, then tried to find the bus up Vesuvius National Park. The first bus station wasn’t correct, and after a long uphill walk in the heat, we adjusted plans and eventually caught the right bus back down — but skipped the Vesuvius summit visit due to the difficult walk in hot conditions.
3. What’s special about Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius is one of Italy’s most famous volcanoes and is responsible for burying Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. The national park around the volcano offers hiking paths and views over the Bay of Naples.
4. How did you visit Pompeii?
After returning to Ercolano, we took the L1 train to Pompei Scavi Villa Dei Misteri, arriving in about 20 minutes. Once there, we explored the ancient city ruins, including the Forum, Amphitheater, House of the Faun, Temple of Apollo, and also other streets and temples that reveal daily Roman life.
5. Where did you eat near Pompeii?
We stopped at a tourist restaurant near Pompeii for lunch before beginning our archaeological exploration.
Tips:
6. How did you wrap up Day 5 in Naples?
After returning to Naples, we rested and then went out for pizza dinner at Pizzeria Dal Presidente in the historic center — a classic local spot famous for its traditional Neapolitan pizza.
7. Why visit Pompeii on this trip?
Pompeii offers a remarkable time-capsule look at Roman life, with well-preserved streets, homes, baths, temples, and an amphitheater — a must-see archaeological site when based in Naples.
8. Any travel tips for Vesuvius & Pompeii?
- Bring water and sun protection — the uphill walks can be long and exposed.
- Double-check bus departure points for Vesuvius — signage can be confusing.
- Pompeii takes several hours to explore, so plan accordingly.
9. What happened on Day 6 (departure day)?
On the final day, with a noon flight, we had time in the morning to stroll Naples’ historic center, including Via dei Tribunali and the San Gregorio Armeno street market, where we bought souvenirs before heading to the airport.
10. What’s special about San Gregorio Armeno?
The San Gregorio Armeno street market is famous for hand-crafted nativity scenes, figurines, and artistic souvenirs — a great place to pick up unique holiday or travel gifts before you leave Naples.
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