Introduction
Stepping back in time to the ancient city of Pompeii is a highlight for anyone visiting Southern Italy, and the journey from Naples is your first step to get there. While the tragic history of this UNESCO World Heritage site is well-known, getting there from the largest city of southern Italy can feel overwhelming and confusing.
When I was researching how to get from Naples to Pompeii during my visit to Italy, I kept coming across conflicting information on the internet. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the most straightforward ways to get to Pompeii from Naples, taking all the guesswork out of your journey.
This guide will walk you through the most convenient and cost-effective ways to travel from Naples to Pompeii. From scenic train rides to private transfers, I’ll help you choose the best option so you can focus on exploring the incredible ruins of Pompeii.
Critical Updates for 2026
Passport/ID is Mandatory: Do not leave your accommodations without your passport or a valid government ID. Pompeii now issues personalized (nominative) tickets with your name printed on them to prevent scalping. Staff at the turnstiles perform frequent spot checks; if the name on your ticket doesn’t match your ID, you will be denied entry without a refund.
The 20,000 Visitor Cap: Pompeii has a daily limit of 20,000 visitors, with the morning slot (9:00am – 12:00pm) being the most likely to sell out. I highly recommend booking your tickets on the official Pompeii site at least 3-5 days in advance.
Strict Bag Policy: Any bags larger than 30x30x15cm are strictly prohibited inside. This is a common ‘day-ruiner’ for cruise passengers carrying large backpacks. If your bag is oversized, you must use the free luggage deposit located at the entrances before joining the entry line.
Entrance Strategy: While the Porta Marina entrance to Pompeii is closest to the train station, it often has 1–2 hour wait times in 2026. Instead, walk around 15 minutes further to the Piazza Immacolata entrance. It is significantly quieter, has better facilities (ATMs/Bookshops), and places you directly next to the impressive Amphitheatre (Anfiteatro di Pompei).
Taking The Train
Taking the Circumvesuviana train
The Circumvesuviana train is the most common and budget-friendly way to get to Pompeii from Naples. This is a local commuter train that runs from Naples to Sorrento, with a stop at Pompeii. This is the train that I took to get to Pompeii from Naples.
The popular station to depart from is Napoli Piazza Garibaldi, which is the lower level of the main Napoli Centrale train station. I recommend boarding the train at the Napoli Porta Nolana station instead. This is the departure station of the route and is often less crowded; this is what I did.
The arrival station is “Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri” (note the “Scavi” which means “excavations”). This station is located directly across the street from Pompeii’s main entrance, making it incredibly convenient. The travel time is about 35-40 minutes.
Here is the timetable for the Circumvesuviana train, including stations and departure times.
Getting Tickets
The cost is about a few euros for a one-way ticket. You can buy tickets at the train station you are departing from; make sure to tell the employee that you are buying Circumvesuviana train tickets. You cannot book tickets for the Circumvesuviana train in advance online.
You can also use your contactless credit/debit card or phone to pay for tickets directly at the turnstiles at some stations. You simply tap your card on the reader to enter and tap again to exit, and the system automatically calculates the correct fare.
TIP: As soon as you arrive in Pompeii, buy your return ticket(s) to Naples at the Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station. This way, you won’t have to wait in a long line when you’re ready to head back.
What to Remember
The train will be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, and they are not always modern or air-conditioned. IMPORTANT: Be cognizant of your surroundings as pickpockets are a major issue throughout Italy, especially on trains.
Taking the Campania Express Train
The Campania Express is a separate service on the same route as the Circumvesuviana that has fewer stops and nicer trains. The departure station is Napoli Piazza Garibaldi and the arrival station is Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri. The travel time is around 35 minutes. These trains are cleaner, less crowded, and have air conditioning.
Here is the timetable for the Campania Express train, including stations and departure times.
Getting Tickets
To use the Campania Express, you should buy tickets in advance to secure a seat. Tickets for the Campania Express train can only be purchased online at this website or at the InfoPoints at the Napoli Porta Nolana station, Napoli Garibaldi station, or the Montesanto inclined railway station. These tickets are more expensive than Circumvesuviana tickets, but are still reasonably priced: €15 one-way / €25 round trip. Additionally, this train only runs 4 times a day in each direction.
As I mentioned above regarding taking the Circumvesuviana train, I highly recommend boarding at Porta Nolana instead of Garibaldi station. Since it’s the first stop, readers are almost guaranteed a seat, whereas Garibaldi is a chaotic “push-and-shove” to get on.
TIP: As mentioned before, buy your return ticket(s) to Naples from the Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station right when you get there. That way, you can skip the long line when it’s time to head back.
What to Remember
Because the Campania Express route is an express route and therefore makes fewer stops, it does not stop at the Pompeii station as often as the Circumvesuviana train. Make sure you keep in mind the departure times to and from Pompeii on the schedule so you do not miss the train you want to take back to Naples! Also, keep your belongings close to prevent them from being stolen by pickpockets.
Taking the Trenitalia train
This is Italy’s national train company, and it also offers a route from Naples to Pompeii. However, the route differs slightly from the previous ones I mentioned. The departure station is Napoli Centrale, and the arrival station is Pompeii (without the “Scavi” in the name). This station is a 15-20 minute walk from the archaeological site’s main entrance. The travel time is about 30-40 minutes. I have taken the Trenitalia train when traveling to Florence, and it is a great alternative option.
Getting Tickets
The ticket prices are similar to the Circumvesuviana prices; very low! You can purchase tickets in advance on the Trenitalia website. Additionally, you can purchase tickets on Trainline, which I have mentioned as one of my favorite travel apps in another post. You can use Trainline’s Italian site to plan your trip from Naples to Pompeii.
What to Remember
While these trains may be more modern, the walk to the ruins is longer compared to the walk from the Pompeii Scavi station on the other routes. This makes the Circumvesuviana and Campania Express more popular choices. Again, remember to keep your belongings close!
Taking the Bus
Public Buses
The public SITA bus is a popular bus option that connects Naples to Pompeii. The SITA bus station is near the Nuova Marina port. Take the bus to the Pompei Scavi stop, which is a short walk from the main entrance to Pompeii. Buses run daily except on Sundays. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to Pompeii, depending on the traffic. Taking the SITA bus costs a few euros, like the Circumvesuviana train.
Getting Tickets
Walk about 600 meters from the Nuova Marina port to the Varco Immacolatella bus depot and purchase a ticket for the 5001 line to Pompei Scavi at the office.
What to Remember
This option can be subject to traffic delays and may not be as direct or frequent as the train options. Additionally, travelers note that this method of transportation is often unorganized and inefficient.
Shuttle Bus/Tour Bus
Many private companies offer round-trip shuttle services from Naples to Pompeii. You can go to Viator and/or GetYourGuide to see shuttle bus options. The departure point for a shuttle bus is usually from a central location like the Naples cruise port or a hotel in Naples. This option is more expensive than public transport but often includes a guide or other services.
Getting Tickets
Tickets/reservations will be purchased when you reserve seats on Viator and/or GetYourGuide.
What to Remember
While this can be a more comfortable and stress-free option, you are on a set schedule and have less flexibility. Because a tour bus operates on a fixed schedule, your time in Pompeii is limited to when the bus departs, which may not be enough time to explore everything you want to.
Taking a Private Transfer
This is the most expensive but most convenient option to get to Pompeii from Naples. When taking a private transfer, you get door-to-door service from either your hotel, a train station, or even the airport. It would take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to get to Pompeii from your departure point, depending on traffic. The cost of a private transfer varies, but it can cost around €75 to €140 for a one-way trip. For private transfers, Daytrip is a popular and reliable choice for getting to Pompeii in comfort.
What to Remember
Even though this is the most expensive option, it is a smart choice for those travelling in a group, with luggage, or who prefer the comfort of a private trip. When taking a private transfer, you also do not have to worry about being pickpocketed.
What About Renting a Car?
While renting your own car and driving to Pompeii from Naples is an option, it is difficult for visitors to navigate the traffic in Naples. Moreover, be aware that you’ll have to contend with narrow, winding roads and limited road signs as you get closer to the archaeological site. You will also have to pay a fee to park the car at Pompeii. Finding a secure parking spot can also be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season.
The original is in the National Archaeological Museum, Naples.
Conclusions
Thousands of people travel every year from Naples to visit Pompeii. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to confidently choose the best method of transportation, whether you prefer a quick train ride, a convenient tour, or a scenic and comfortable private transfer. In my opinion, the best, most straightforward, and seamless method of transportation to get to Pompeii from Naples is the Circumvesuviana train, followed by the Campania Express train. No matter which option you pick, you’re sure to have an incredible experience exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii on your next trip!
