The Roman city buried by Vesuvius in AD 79, now one of the world's great archaeological sites
Walking into Pompeii feels like stepping into a Roman town on an ordinary day. Stone-paved streets still carry the ruts of cart wheels, raised stepping stones cross the roads, and behind the walls lie bakeries, bars, bathhouses and private homes decorated with frescoes and mosaics. At the end of many views stands Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that ended the city's life.
The park is large, with around two-thirds of the ancient city excavated, so a visit is as much about choosing what to see as seeing it all. The Forum, the theatres, the amphitheatre and grand houses such as the House of the Faun and the Villa of the Mysteries are the classic stops, but quieter side streets often give the strongest sense of everyday Roman life.
Pompeii was a prosperous commercial town near the Bay of Naples when Vesuvius erupted on 24 August AD 79, burying it, along with Herculaneum and many wealthy villas, under volcanic debris. The town remained hidden for centuries. Excavation began in 1748, and in 1763 an inscription confirmed that the site was Pompeii.
In the 19th century Giuseppe Fiorelli organised the city into nine regions and developed the technique of pouring plaster into the voids left by victims, creating the casts that still move visitors today. Large-scale digging continued into the 20th century under Amedeo Maiuri. In 1997 UNESCO inscribed the Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata as a World Heritage site, recognising the unique picture they give of Roman society, and research and new discoveries continue in the park.
The modern town of Pompei grew up beside the ruins and is also an important pilgrimage destination, centred on its basilica dedicated to the Madonna of the Rosary. For people across Campania, the excavations are a source of pride and a reminder of living alongside an active volcano, and Vesuvius remains a constant presence on the skyline around the Bay of Naples.
Plan a route before you arrive using the official map: a half day covers the Forum, the theatres, a few major houses and the main streets, while a full day lets you add the amphitheatre and the Villa of the Mysteries at either end of the site. A licensed guide or the audio guide brings the ruins to life, explaining how Romans shopped, bathed, worshipped and entertained themselves.
Many visitors combine Pompeii with Herculaneum, which is smaller but better preserved, or with a trip up Vesuvius itself to look into the crater that destroyed both towns.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) are the most comfortable seasons, as there is little shade on the site and summer afternoons can be very hot. Arrive at opening time to enjoy cooler air and quieter streets. Summer brings the largest crowds, and timed entry slots apply in the busy season, so booking ahead is wise.
Checked against the sources on 27 October 2026. Opening times and fees can change — confirm before you go.
General guidance from our specialists, not official information.
The modern town of Pompei has cafes, pizzerias and shops around the Piazza Bartolo Longo and its basilica. Herculaneum and the slopes of Vesuvius are close by, and both Naples and Sorrento are reachable by local train, making Pompeii an easy day trip from either base or a stop on the way to the Amalfi Coast.
Italy · 2 nights4★ HotelItaly · 7 nights4★ HotelItaly · 7 nights4★ HotelThis guide was researched from the sources below and reviewed by our team on 27 October 2026. Facts under “Verified information” link to the page they were checked on; travel tips are general guidance. Photos are credited on each image. The ambient recording’s author and licence are shown in the sound player.
