Are you considering a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Pompeii, Italy? The ancient Roman town of Pompeii is world-famous for its preserved ruins, buried in volcanic ash nearly 2000 years ago. With its central location near the Bay of Naples, Pompeii is an ideal vacation destination for history buffs, culture seekers, and foodies. To make the most of your trip to the ancient city, here is a must-see itinerary of historical and architectural sites, and delicious food to try.
Pompeii Ruins: The ruins of Pompeii give visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of Roman citizens before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Open daily from 8:30am-7:30pm, Pompeii offers a self-guided audio tour to learn more about the sites. Insiders tip: Bring a sarong or a large shawl to protect your skin from the intense sun.
Piazza Anfiteatro: Located in the heart of Pompeii, Piazza Anfiteatro is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. As its name suggests, the piazza was originally built as an amphitheater and now contains some of the city’s best-preserved ruins with its breathtaking architecture.
Stabian Baths: The Stabian Baths site is a must-see for insiders looking to experience Roman culture. With its ancient changing rooms and steam baths, the site allows visitors to feel a genuine sense of the Roman's daily lives.
Torre del Greco: The small seaside town of Torre del Greco is home to many natural treasures. The town is most well-known for its magnificent black sand beach and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius in the background. For seafood-lovers, the local waterfront restaurant serve up delicious freshly caught seafood dishes.
National Archaeological Museum of Naples: This museum is an excellent place to start your trip. Located in the heart of Naples, it contains centuries of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. From vases to statues, the museum offers an in-depth look into the past.
Il Forno di Ponticino: Located near the ancient ruins, this pizzeria offers some of the best pizza in Pompeii. The wood-fired oven and thin crust will have you coming back for more.
PalaPompeii: After exploring the ruins, head to PalaPompeii- an outdoor theatre and event space that hosts live concerts and festivals from April to September. Catch an outdoor concert or take a walk around to admire the breathtaking view of the Bay of Naples.
From exploring the ancient ruins to eating delicious pizza, Pompeii is a unique destination that offers something for everyone. With this itinerary, you can make the most of your trip to the ancient city.