Pompeii
A whole Roman city frozen by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 - streets, houses and frescoes preserved under ash, a UNESCO window onto ancient daily life.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Pompeii is the most extraordinary archaeological site in Europe, a whole Roman city buried and preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 and dug from the ash. Walking its streets past shops, houses, temples, baths, a forum and an amphitheatre, with vivid frescoes and the haunting plaster casts of the dead, is to step directly into ancient daily life, a UNESCO wonder.
What you actually see
- The streets and houses - the preserved Roman city with its shops and villas.
- The frescoes and mosaics - the vivid wall paintings in the grand houses.
- The plaster casts - the haunting forms of the eruption's victims.
- The forum and amphitheatre - the civic centre against the backdrop of Vesuvius.
When to go
Spring and autumn for mild weather, as the ruins are exposed and summer is punishingly hot with little shade. It is vast, so allow a good half day and wear sturdy shoes for the ancient cobbles.
Honest expectations
It is vast and exposed, so summer heat is brutal and a full visit tiring; a guide or audio guide brings it alive. Many houses are closed or under restoration at any time. It is very popular, so it is busy, especially the famous villas.
Nearby
Naples and its archaeological museum are nearby; Mount Vesuvius, Herculaneum and the Amalfi Coast are close.
What to pack for Pompeii
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
