Pompeii is one of Italy’s most famous ancient cities, boasting extensive ruins and relics from the Roman Empire. It has been a popular tourist destination ever since it was discovered in the mid-18th century. So, as you can imagine, everyone wonders – How much to get into Pompeii?
The cost to enter Pompeii is quite affordable, actually. For adults, it is €11.50 for each ticket for Pompeii Archaeological Park and Oplontis villa – the two most commonly visited sites in Pompeii. For those aged 18-25, it is €9, while citizens aged 18 and under can enter free of charge. It is also free to enter the ruins on the first Sunday of each month.
Tickets are available to purchase upon arrival at the site, or in advance online at the official Pompeii website. The 19/20 Super Pompeii Pass – a discounted ticket package to visit the sites, is also available in the tourist offices and the Pompeii Archaeological Park, and those tickets are available for €20. Those who are military personnel or members of the European Union can also receive discounts.
Visitors to the ruins also have the option to opt for guided tours of the sites, which is highly recommended. Tours usually cost between €50 and €100 per person, and usually include professional tour guides and special access to some areas on the site. The professional tour guides will allow visitors to have a much deeper understanding of the city’s past, as well as offering extensive insights into the sites.
In addition, entrance to the Pompeii ruins is included on the Campania Artecard ticket. This is a 3-day card which provides access to 40 museums, archaeological sites and other attractions for €37 for adults and €27 for those aged 18-25. On the other hand, the 7-day Campania Artecard also covers the entry fee and costs €63 for adults while being free for those aged 18 and under.
If you’re looking for a way to truly experience the beauty of Pompeii, we recommend that you opt for private experiences on the site. For little cost, you will have the site almost to yourself and get expert insight from people that know the city like the back of their hand. No matter what way you choose to experience the ancient city, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience.
History and Origins
Pompeii is one of the most well-known ancient cities in the world. Located near modern-day Naples, the city was founded in the 6th century BC by the ancient Greeks. It was an important trading center, and became a Roman colony in 80 BC. Pompeii was a thriving and affluent city, with marble streets and impressive public baths.
The city was destroyed, however, during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The city was buried in volcanic ash and the residents were killed almost instantaneously. It was only in the late 18th century that the city was rediscovered by a team of Italian archaeologists, who started excavating the site in 1748. Over the years, more and more of the city has been uncovered and brought to light, so that visitors today can enjoy the stunning ruins of old Pompeii.
Facts and Figures
Pompeii is a large archaeological site, measuring about 166 hectares. It is home to 82 ancient buildings and monuments, as well as many other important sites such as the famous Forum and Sanctuary of Apollo. Although many areas remain buried beneath the surface, there are over 2000 individual artifacts on display.
The city was home to a population of around 13,000 people in the first century BC, with many hundreds of thousands visiting the city during public festivals. Over the centuries, the city has been excavated and studied extensively, and many of the artifacts uncovered during the excavation process are on display in local museums as well as art galleries around the world.
Highlights and Must-See’s
When visiting Pompeii, the first thing on everyone’s list should be the Forum, the city’s main square. This is an amazing sight and offers an insight into the social, political, and religious life of the ancient citizens. The Temple of Jupiter, the Temple of Venus, and the Temple of Apollo are all worth a visit in their own right.
The House of Menander is also an interesting sight – it is one of the best-preserved houses in the city and offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthier citizens. It is filled with beautiful frescoes and ornate mosaics. The Villa of the Mysteries is an exquisite sight, and is an important part of Pompeii’s cultural heritage. The Amphitheatre is also a must-see, and was the site of gladiator battles and theatrical performances.
Safety & Accessibility
The site is quite safe for visitors, although there are certain areas of the ruins that visitors should be aware of. Parts of the ruins may be unstable and visitors should therefore use caution when climbing on the ruins.
The site is also quite accessible for visitors with limited mobility. There are wheelchairs available to borrow at the ticket office, and there are also electric carts available to those who need them. There is also an audio guide which is helpful for those who want to learn more about the ruins.
Takeaway
Pompeii is truly one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites, and while entrance fees may seem like they are quite expensive, they are quite affordable. Tickets and packages can be obtained in advance or upon arrival at the site, and guided tours are also available. No matter what way you choose to experience the ancient city, it is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.
