How to get from Naples to Pompeii

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Planning a trip to Naples and thinking of visiting Pompeii? Absolutely do it – seeing a whole Roman town preserved in volcanic ash is one of those travel experiences that sticks with you. This guide cuts through the options so you can pick the fastest, cheapest or most comfortable way to get from Naples to Pompeii, depending on your travel style.

We’ve visited Pompeii and tested the main routes – from the local Circumvesuviana commuter train to private transfers and guided day tours – so these recommendations are hands-on, not theoretical. You’ll learn the quickest entry-level option for budget travellers, when upgrading to the Campania Express makes sense, and which transport choices make the most sense if you’re combining Pompeii with Herculaneum or the Amalfi Coast.

Read on for clear journey times, realistic costs, and honest pros and cons for each method. We’ve also added a short comparison table later that helps you choose in under 30 seconds.

How far is Pompeii from Naples?

Pompeii is roughly 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) southeast of Naples.

Travel time varies by transport method: from 30 -40 minutes by train, to 40 minutes by car, and just over an hour by bus.

Most people do it as a day trip from Naples, making it one of the most accessible ancient sites in Italy.

Because of this, most people fly into Naples when visiting Pompeii. Booking your flights and flying at the right time can save you a lot on your flights.

Getting the train to Pompeii (Circumvesuviana) – Most Popular Option

The most common way to reach Pompeii is via the Circumvesuviana train.

The Circumvesuviana is a local train line that connects Naples to several towns around Mount Vesuvius, including Pompeii. It’s not the most luxurious train, but it’s a convenient and budget-friendly way to get to Pompeii.

To catch the Circumvesuviana, head to the Napoli Porta Nolana station or Napoli Garibaldi station (which is connected to the main train station, Napoli Centrale). Look for the signs for the Circumvesuviana. It can be tricky to find, so ask the station staff or security guards.

Catch the train heading towards Sorrento and get off at Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri.

From there, it’s a short walk to the site (it’s well signposted, and there’ll be other tourists making the walk).

• Journey time: ~35–40 minutes
• Cost: €3–€4 (one way)
• Tickets: Buy on Trainline.com, at the station or via local apps/machines

Pros: Cheap, frequent departures, station is a short walk from the site entrance, best option for the environment.
Cons: Can be crowded, especially in summer, and doesn’t have air conditioning

The Campania Express

The Campania Express is a tourist-oriented train running along the same route as the Circumvesuviana, but with reserved seating, air conditioning, and fewer stops. It mainly runs in high season.

• Journey time: ~35 minutes
• Cost: €10–€15 one way
• When: Only operates in high season (spring to autumn)
• Tickets: Buy on Trainline.com, at the station or via local apps/machines

Perfect if you want a bit more comfort and space (we got the Circumvesuviana which was fine – don’t feel you have to get the Campania).

Getting the bus to Pompeii

Several regional buses connect Naples to Pompeii. They slightly less direct and can be delayed by traffic; but, they’re useful if you’re coming from the port or a neighbourhood which isn’t served by trains.

• Journey time: 45–60 minutes
• Cost: €3–€6
• Operators: EAV Bus and other regional services

You can catch buses from Piazza Garibaldi, Naples Central Station, or from the Port of Naples if you’re arriving by cruise. Buses normally stop at Pompei Piazza Immacolata or Pompei Via Plinio, both of which are within walking distance of the archaeological site.

It’s worth checking schedules in advance – especially on weekends or public holidays – and purchasing tickets ahead of time if possible. In summer, opt for an air-conditioned coach-style bus.

Pros: Inexpensive, good option if you’re staying near a bus terminal or travelling from the port
Cons: Less frequent than trains, timetable changes possible, travel time varies depending on traffic.

Driving to Pompeii

If you’re renting a car in Naples, driving to Pompeii is another option. The drive takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

We recommend hiring a car from Discover Cars – they have great prices, wide availability and we’ve always had a good experience with them.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple sites (like Mount Vesuvius or Herculaneum), having a car can save a lot of time and make your itinerary more efficient.

Watch out for traffic in Naples. Driving can be chaotic! Also, be aware of ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones), where driving is restricted.

The A3 motorway is the main route, and is well-signposted. Google Maps will also help. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Mount Vesuvius and the Neapolitan countryside.

There are several car parks near the main entrances to the archaeological site, such as Parcheggio Zeus, which is located close to the Porta Marina entrance. Most car parks charge an hourly or daily fee, typically ranging from €2–€3 per hour or €10–€15 per day.

Pros: Total flexibility, ideal for groups or families, great if you’re combining with Herculaneum or the Amalfi Coast
Cons: Traffic congestion possible, parking fees, toll roads may apply

Booking a private transfer to Pompeii

A private transfer gives you door-to-door convenience from your hotel and is stress-free. It involves a pre-booked car and driver who will pick you up from your hotel in Naples and take you directly to Pompeii.

You can review and buy various options on Get Your Guide. There’s also options to include entry tickets, and other destinations too. However, we’d always recommend staying the whole day in Pompeii because there’s so much to see, rather than trying to pack more in.

Private transfers are more expensive, but they can save you time and stress. For most travellers, the train is usually cheaper and similar in travel time.

• Cost: From €80–€120 round trip (varies by provider and group size)
• Booking: Online in advance

Pros: convenient and comfortable, and direct (although depending on traffic, train can be quicker)
Cons: more expensive, and less of an adventure!

Joining an organised tour to Pompeii

If you prefer someone else to handle the logistics, an organised tour is a good choice.

Many tours depart from Naples and include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of Pompeii.

There isn’t a huge amount of information available on Pompeii (there’s an online guide, but the quality of information was variable), so this is a great way to learn more about what you’re looking at. Plus, you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport.

Viator and GetYourGuide are good places to start your search.

We’d always recommend staying the whole day in Pompeii (some tours will take you to other places and only have half a day in Pompei). There’s so much to see that you’ll miss a lot if you try and pack too much in.

• Cost: From €50 per person
• Booking: In advance, from Viator and GetYourGuide
• Includes: Transport, guide, entrance fee (check package details)

Pros: all logistics handled for you, and you’ll get more information than on a self-guided tour.
Cons: Less flexible (to choose where you want to go and for how long), and more expensive.

In summary…

Tips for your visit to Pompeii

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
• Bring water and sunscreen: Pompeii can get hot, especially in the summer. There’s a café on site, and water taps to refill your bottle.
• Consider a guided tour: A guide can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the site.
• Check the opening hours: Pompeii is not open every day, so check the schedule before you go.
• Book your tickets in advance: never get them on the door – you’ll waste time, its more complicated, and they may sell out. It’s also cheaper to book online in advance.
• Allow plenty of time: There’s a lot to see, so plan to spend the whole day here.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the fastest way to get from Naples to Pompeii?

On paper, the train and car take similar times (35–40 minutes). In practice, the Circumvesuviana train is usually the most reliable for city-centre travellers because it avoids road traffic.

Is Pompeii worth a full day?

Yes – full day recommended. There is a lot to explore and limited context without a guide.

Can I buy tickets on arrival?

You can, but queues form and some ticket types (guided entries) may sell out. Book online to be safe.

Are trains safe from pickpockets?

Regional lines can be busy and opportunistic pickpockets exist. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying passports or large sums.

What’s next?

Once you’ve decided how you want to travel – train, bus, tour, car or transfer – getting from Naples to Pompeii is simple.

The journey is short, and the site is right by the station or parking.

The only thing that really makes a difference is giving yourself enough time. Pompeii is huge, so arrive early, pace yourself, and make a day of it.

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