Getting to Pompeii is straightforward thanks to public transport linking Naples and Sorrento directly to the site entrances. The Circumvesuviana stops at Pompei-Scavi, just a short walk from common guided routes. Travelers who prefer to avoid transfers and delays can choose a private shuttle included in the tour. Many tours also offer direct transportation from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. Planning ahead helps streamline your schedule and start the visit with less stress.

Booking a licensed guide is recommended because Pompeii is huge and full of details you may overlook on your own. Guides know daily updates, open areas and sections closed for restoration. A guided tour provides context about daily life, architecture and the eruption timeline. After the introductory tour, you can continue exploring at your own pace. It’s the best choice for first-time visitors seeking a well-structured experience.

Not all tours include the entrance ticket, so it’s essential to check what’s covered. Several budget options require you to buy the ticket separately through the official website.

Visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day is doable, but it often becomes exhausting because both sites require time, energy and walking on uneven ground. A more balanced alternative is dedicating the day to just one site and pairing it with a visit to the Vesuvius crater, which offers a completely different landscape and adds variety to your experience. This combination allows a more manageable pace and a broader understanding of the area. Consider your interests and physical stamina before deciding.

A Pompeii + Vesuvius tour usually offers a guided morning visit of the ruins followed by an afternoon transfer to the crater, with a short final hike suitable for most visitors. These excursions often include a lunch stop at a winery on the volcano’s slopes, giving you a chance to enjoy local food and wine. The combination balances archaeology and nature, ideal if you only have one day. Booking with a reliable operator ensures predictable timing and fewer delays.

An audio guide ensures flexibility, while a live guide offers personalized explanations and immediate answers. Guided tours allow tailored detours and deeper insights. If you want a more interactive experience, choose a live guide. If you prefer independence and quiet, an audio guide is ideal. Consider how deeply you want to explore the site.