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What to do in Pompeii: Top attractions, tips, and FAQ

As a unique insight into life almost 2,000 years ago, Pompeii offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. This ancient city was frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption in 79 AD and is now one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. The ruins of Pompeii are an unforgettable destination for history buffs, curious travelers, or those simply looking for an interesting day trip.

From top attractions to expert tips and FAQs, I’ll show you everything you need to know to make the most of your Pompeii adventure.

Here is a list of the top 12 attractions in Pompeii that you should not miss

With these must-see attractions in Pompeii, each of which offers a unique window into the past, let’s delve deep in the heart of this ancient city.

1. Take a trip to Lupanare (The Brothel)

It is one of Pompeii’s most infamous sites, the Lupanare, a brothel with erotic frescoes and small stone beds, and one of Pompeii’s most popular attractions. As a result of this site, you will gain insight into the social life and culture of the Romans.

“I was amazed by how explicit the frescoes were—artistry meets ancient social norms. It’s a testament to how open-minded Roman society was.”

Among its features are the small rooms, erotic wall paintings, and Latin inscriptions on the walls
The pros of this book are the following: It provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman life
Cons: It can be crowded; there is not a lot of space for large groups
The main takeaway from this article is that it gives you a unique insight into the attitudes toward intimacy and social structure in ancient Rome.

2. Visit the Forum Baths and see how they are maintained

It is safe to say that some of Pompeii’s best-preserved thermal baths are located in the Forum Baths. Featuring intricate frescoes, hypocaust heating systems, and elegant designs, the baths are divided into men’s and women’s sections.

“Walking through the baths, I imagined Romans relaxing and socializing here. It’s fascinating how advanced they were.”

There are many features to this building, such as hypocaust heating, frescoes, and well-preserved mosaics
The pros of this building are the stunning preservation and the rich historical details it contains
Cons: The game might not be as engaging for young children as older children
It is clear from this piece that the Romans were sophisticated in terms of their engineering practices and leisure activities.

3. Visit the Villa of Mysteries to learn more about the Villa’s history

The villa is a grand structure that lies a short distance from Pompeii’s main ruins, and it is known for its enigmatic frescoes depicting what is believed to be the rites of initiation into the cult of Dionysus.

“The vivid colors of the frescoes are incredible. I stood there trying to decode their meanings—it felt like a real mystery.”

Among the features of the villa are the beautiful frescoes and the spacious layout
The pros of this place are the breathtaking art and the peaceful atmosphere
There is a bit of a walk from the main site to the hotel
There is no doubt that this monument is a masterpiece of ancient art and mysticism.

4. Visit The Forum

The Forum was the heart of ancient Pompeii, where the city’s politics, religion, and commerce were all centered in this place. It is surrounded by important buildings and has spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius because of its location.

“Standing here felt like stepping into history’s heartbeat. The backdrop of Mount Vesuvius is both beautiful and haunting.”

There is an open plaza, ruins of temples, and markets to be found here
Iconic site with a lot of opportunities for photography
Cons: Large, open area with a limited amount of shade
A must-see spot in Pompeii if you want to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s civic life.

5. Visit the Stabian Baths and learn about their history

It is also worth mentioning that one of the oldest baths in Pompeii, the Stabian Baths, is another example of how much the Romans loved relaxing.

“The architectural ingenuity here left me in awe. From the caldarium to the frigidarium, you see how the Romans cherished their wellness.”

Among its features are the following: Hot and cold rooms, detailed mosaics, etc.
There are some pros to this attraction, including: Excellent preservation; less crowded than the Forum Baths
One of the cons is that it is smaller than the Forum Baths
A testament to the architectural brilliance and lifestyle of the Roman Empire.

6. Go on a tour of the House of the Small Fountain

There is a small, yet intricate fountain in the garden of this elegant house, which gives it its name. There is no doubt that it displays the wealth and taste of its owners.

“I felt like I was visiting a millionaire’s house from ancient times. The fountain is a true gem.”

It is decorated with ornate decorations and has a small fountain centerpiece as its centerpiece
There are many pros to this game, such as the peaceful atmosphere and the detailed artwork
There are a few cons to this house: It is smaller than other houses
Takeaway: This is a snapshot of what life was like for upper-class Romans.

7. Take a trip to the House of the Faun

It is impossible not to be impressed by the incredible mosaics found in the House of the Faun, which is one of Pompeii’s largest and most impressive houses.

“I couldn’t take my eyes off the intricate Alexander Mosaic. It’s incredible that something so detailed has survived.”

Mosaics, a large courtyard and a statue of a dancing faun are some of the features of this palace
An iconic piece of art; a spacious layout are some of the pros
There are a few cons to this event: Large crowds
The main takeaway is that this is a must-see for art and history lovers.

8. Take a trip to the Garden of the Fugitives

A haunting reminder of the tragedy occurs at this poignant site that preserves plaster casts of people who were trapped in the eruption.

“Seeing the casts up close was a somber experience. It made the disaster feel real and personal.”

Among the features are plaster casts and a lush garden setting
The pros are that it is both emotional and educational
The disadvantage of this is that it may be distressing for some visitors
The main takeaway from this site is that it is a powerful and deeply moving tribute to lost lives.

9. Go to the House of Venus in the Shell to see what it is all about

There is a stunning fresco of Venus on the wall of this small but beautifully decorated house.

“The artwork here felt alive, as if Venus herself was watching over Pompeii.”

Among its features are vibrant frescoes and elegant architecture
A stunning color scheme and a peaceful setting are some of the pros of this place
Cons: It is smaller than other attractions in the area
There is a celebration of Roman art and mythology in this exhibition.

10. Pay a visit to the Amphitheater

Pompeii’s amphitheater, built in 70 BC, is the oldest of its kind and is a rare example of an ancient venue for entertainment.

“Standing in the middle of the amphitheater, I could almost hear the echoes of the crowd.”

There are a number of features including an elliptical structure and seating for thousands of people
Among its pros are its historical significance and great photo opportunities
Cons: There is a limited amount of shade available
There is no doubt that this is a must-see for anyone interested in Roman architecture and culture.

11. Go to the Great Palestra to see what it is all about

A lot of social gatherings and athletic training took place in this open space.

“It was fascinating to see where young Romans trained and socialized—a precursor to today’s gyms.”

It is characterized by an open courtyard with surrounding porticos
The pros are that it is peaceful and less crowded
One of the cons is that it lacks detailed features
The main takeaway from this place is that it is a serene place that offers an alternative viewpoint of Roman life.

12. Visit the Sallustio House and learn about its history

This is one of Pompeii’s oldest houses, with beautiful frescoes and a charming garden that make it a must-see.

“This house felt like a sanctuary. The blend of nature and art was stunning.”

A few of the features of the property are: Frescoes, a small garden, and an ancient kitchen
There are several pros to this place: Beautiful artwork; historic charm
One of the cons of this villa is that it is smaller than other villas
There is a perfect blend of art, history, and tranquility that can be found here.

Here are 12 tips that you should keep in mind when visiting Pompeii

Make sure you arrive early in order to avoid the crowds and the heat.
It is very important that you wear comfortable shoes since you will be walking a great deal on uneven terrain.
Be sure to bring water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated as well as energized throughout the day.
You can also book a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of Pompeii’s history by booking a guided tour.
The Audio Guide is perfect for exploring at your own pace and allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Depending on the season, you may need to pack sunscreen or a raincoat, depending on the weather.
There are fewer crowds and cooler temperatures if you visit in the off-season.
Spend a night in one of the nearby towns, such as Naples or Sorrento, if you are planning to stay nearby.
It is advisable to carry cash with you because some facilities may not accept credit cards.
It is important to check the opening hours as they may vary from season to season.
Take a hike up Mount Vesuvius as part of your trip: This iconic volcano is a perfect combination with your trip.
Allow yourself at least four to six hours to thoroughly explore this attraction.

Here is a short guide on how to get to Pompeii

Taking the Circumvesuviana line from Naples or Sorrento to Pompeii Scavi station is the easiest way to reach Pompeii.
It is accessible by car via the A3 highway, and parking is available in the area as well.
The best option would be to go on a guided tour that includes transportation from Naples, Sorrento, or Rome.

FAQ on Visiting Pompeii

Q: What are the opening hours of Pompeii?
A: Typically, Pompeii opens at 9 AM and closes around 5 PM, but hours vary by season.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Yes, tickets start at €16. Discounts are available for students and children.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: No, pets are not allowed in the archaeological site.

Q: Is Pompeii wheelchair accessible?
A: Certain areas are accessible, but uneven terrain may pose challenges.

With the help of this guide, you will be able to explore Pompeii like a pros in no time. Pompeii is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on those who visit, from its poignant history to its breathtaking art and architecture.

How to Visit Pompeii: Tips and Insights