

Salerno to Pompeii: A Simple Travel Guide
Pompeii is one of the most famous places in Italy. It’s an ancient Roman city that was buried by a volcano in the year 79 AD, and it was only rediscovered in the 18th century. Today, you can walk through the old streets and see what life was like 2,000 years ago.
Traveling from Salerno to Pompeii is a short and exciting trip. In this guide, you’ll learn how to go from reach Pompeii, what to see, and how to plan your tour.
Why Visit Pompeii from Salerno?
Salerno is very close to Pompeii. It’s also easy to reach by train or car within half an hour. Many people stay in Salerno because it’s quiet, pretty, and a city that’s by the sea. From there, you can visit Pompeii in one day and get back the same day.
You don’t need to change hotels or carry bags. Just take a Salerno to Pompeii tour, spend a fun day, and return by evening.
How to Travel from Salerno to Pompeii
There are three easy ways to go from Salerno to Pompeii. You can either go by train, car, or opt for a guided private tour (highly recommended).
1. By Train
- The easiest way is to take a train from Salerno. Trains run all day and stop at Pompei station.
- The trip takes about 40 minutes.
- Trains leave from Salerno Centrale station.
From the Pompei station, you can walk to the entrance of the ruins in about 10 minutes.
2. By Car
You can also drive from Salerno to Pompeii. The drive is short and takes about 30 to 35 minutes.
If you rent a car:
- Follow the A3 highway toward Naples.
- Exit at Pompei Est or Pompei Ovest.
Parking is easy near the site, but it can be full during summer. Arrive early to find a spot.
3. With a Tour – Easy and Informative
A Pompeii tour is a great choice if you want to learn more about the city and its history. Opt for a tour from a reliable local tour operator, like Exploring Amalfi Coast, to get a tour guide who tells you interesting facts and everything in between as you explore the city.
While tours include transport, tickets, and lunch, it’s best to contact the tour operator in advance to know what you can expect. This is a great option for families or groups who want a relaxing day with everything pre-planned by the tour operator, or custom planned according to your preference.
What to See in Pompeii
Pompeii is a big city, meaning that you can spend a few hours or a full day there. Here are the top things to see:
1. The Forum
This was the main square of Pompeii. People came here to meet, shop, and talk. You can still see the ruins in the form of old stones and columns.
2. The Amphitheatre
Pompeii’s amphitheatre is the oldest Roman one in the world and was constructed in 70 BC. It’s like a small version of Rome’s Colosseum. It’s a part of the Pompeii Archaeological Park.
3. The Baths
The city had public baths where people came to clean and relax. You can still see the pools and changing rooms.
4. The Houses
Some houses have colorful wall paintings and pretty gardens. The House of the Faun and the Villa of the Mysteries are very famous.
5. The Plaster Casts
When the volcano hit, people and animals were trapped. Their shapes were saved in the ash. Today, you can see plaster casts of them, created by archaeologists, including Giuseppe Fiorell in the 19th century.
Tips for Visiting Pompeii
Here are some easy tips to help you enjoy your visit:
- Wear good shoes – The roads are old and made of stones. Comfortable shoes are a must to enjoy your time.
- Bring water and snacks – The site is big and there are few places to buy things inside. Stay hydrated.
- Wear sunscreen – This is important to protect your skin from the sun. If it’s too sunny, also carry a hat.
- Go early – It gets hot and crowded after 11:00 AM.
- Take a map or guide – It’s easy to get lost without one. A smart idea would be to visit by booking a tour to Pompeii that gives you a knowledgeable local tour guide.
Salerno to Pompeii Tour Options
You can join a Salerno to Pompeii tour for a full or half-day trip. Tours come with different options:
1. Half-Day Guided Tours
These tours include transport from Salerno, entry to Pompeii, and a licensed guide.
2. Full-Day History Tours
Some tours also include a visit to Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that buried Pompeii. You can hike to the crater and see the view.
3. Private Tours
If you want something special, choose a private tour. A guide will take just your group around and explain everything. It’s great for families or school trips.
Best Time to Visit Pompeii
You can visit Pompeii all year, but some months are better:
- Spring (April to June): Nice weather and fewer people.
- Fall (September to October): Warm days and clear skies.
- Summer (July to August): Very hot and busy, but still possible with care
Is Pompeii Good for Kids?
Yes! Your kids will love walking through old streets and seeing real Roman houses. In fact, many schools take students to Pompeii to learn about its interesting history.
Bring a notebook and camera to take notes and capture moments. This makes learning fun and exciting for them, while keeping them occupied.
Final Thoughts
Going from Salerno to Pompeii is an easy and fun day trip for all ages. You can travel by train, car, or tour. Once you arrive, you will walk through real Roman streets and learn how people lived long ago.
A Pompeii tour is a perfect way to see everything without stress. Whether you go alone, with family, or in a group, Pompeii will leave you amazed.
The best way to visit is through a tour from a reliable tour operator, like Exploring Amalfi Coast. You won’t need to plan anything else as everything is pre-planned, unless you want it customised: this is possible too!
If you’d want to explore other tours, you have many options. Check out all tours to book a private tour based on your preference.
Don’t miss this chance to explore one of the most famous places in Italy. Start your journey from Salerno and step back in time at Pompeii.