Visiting the Archaeological Excavations of Pompeii is a unique experience — you will walk through the streets of an ancient Roman city remarkably well preserved. This guide provides updated information on entrances, tickets, opening hours, accessibility, visit rules, and practical tips to organize your day efficiently.
What are the entrances to the Pompeii Ruins?
The archaeological park has three official entrances with ticket offices:
- Porta Marina (Circumvesuviana station “Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri”): ideal for quick access to the Forum area.
- Piazza Esedra: a few steps from Porta Marina; automatic ticket machines available.
- Piazza Anfiteatro: convenient for visiting the Amphitheatre and Large Palaestra; starting point of the accessible route “Pompeii for All”.
Official ticket offices are located only within the archaeological area at the entrances listed above. TicketOne for exemple.
If you arrive by car, choose the entrance closest to parking; if arriving by train (Circumvesuviana), Porta Marina is the nearest.
Useful read: Visit Pompeii by car: tips and parking near the ruins.
Pompeii Ruins Opening Hours
Opening hours vary depending on the season (indicative opening hours subject to change over the seasons or years):
- April 1 – October 31: opens at 9:00 AM, last entry at 5:30 PM, closes at 7:00 PM.
- November 1 – March 31: opens at 9:00 AM, last entry at 3:30 PM, closes at 5:00 PM.
From April 1 to October 31, visitor limits and entry time slots apply (see the Tickets section). Maximum daily capacity: 20,000 visitors.
Closed on December 25 and January 1 unless otherwise announced. Always check for updates before your visit.
How to Plan Your Visit: Map, Itineraries and Duration
The archaeological site covers about 66 hectares (over 45 hectares open to visitors). A complete visit takes at least 4 hours — ideally a full day. Maps and the official app are available at the entrance.
Suggested “must-see” route:
- Forum
- House of the Faun
- Lupanar (Ancient Brothel)
- Stabian Baths
- Amphitheatre
- Villa of the Mysteries (reachable on foot)
Short on time? Try this route: Alternative itinerary in Pompeii.
Accessibility: “Pompeii for All” (Barrier-Free Route)
Since 2016, the “Pompeii for All” route has offered an accessible 3.5 km itinerary starting from Piazza Anfiteatro through the main streets up to the Forum, with access to key sites. Suitable for wheelchairs and strollers (some ancient paving sections).
Additional inclusive resources (LIS, “Museum for All” guides) are available on the official website.
Learn more: Accessible Pompeii: guide for visitors with disabilities.
Visitor Rules, Bags, Pets and Useful Services
- Bags: bags larger than 30×30×15 cm are not allowed. A free cloakroom is available at the main entrances.
- Pets: only small dogs
- Audio guides: only official authorized ones allowed (available at all entrances).
- Fountains: found throughout the site; in summer, bring water and a hat, as shaded areas are limited.
- Free Sunday at the Museum: free entry with direct turnstile access (no online booking).
For more precise information, please visit the official website
What to Do After Visiting the Ruins?
After your visit, relax in Piazza Esedra, have dinner in a traditional trattoria, or head toward the Vesuvius trails for sunset views.
- Pompeii by Night: illuminated ruins and evening events
- Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius: educational trip
- Vesuvius hiking trails and viewpoints
- Places of interest near Pompeii
Where to Stay Near the Pompeii Ruins?
If you want accommodation just minutes from the main entrances, discover Il Tesoro Pompeiano rooms and services (parking, breakfast, Wi-Fi).
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main entrance to Pompeii Ruins?
Porta Marina is the most used and convenient entrance, especially for visitors arriving by Circumvesuviana train.
How long does it take to visit Pompeii?
About 4 hours; a full day is ideal.
Is Pompeii accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the “Pompeii for All” route (starting from Piazza Anfiteatro) is accessible and covers more than 3.5 km. (For more precise information, please visit the official website.)
Are pets allowed?
Only small dogs are allowed on a leash; must be carried inside buildings. (For more precise information, please visit the official website.)
Want to stay close to the ruins? Check out Il Tesoro Pompeiano rooms, just minutes from the main entrances.
Official Links and Useful Resources
- Official hours, rates, MyPompeii Card (official site)
- Buy tickets (TicketOne)
- “Pompeii for All” – Accessible route
- Visitor services (official audio guides)
- Rules and tips for visiting
- Free Sunday at the museum: direct access details
- MiC page (official opening hours)
Please note: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is intended as a general overview to help you plan your visit to the Pompeii Archaeological Park.
Opening hours, ticket prices, access procedures, and regulations may change at any time. For official, up-to-date, and binding information, please refer exclusively to the official website of the Pompeii Archaeological Park and to authorized ticket vendors, accessible through the links provided on this page.
