Introduction
The ancient city of Pompeii, located just 32 km away from the center of Florence, has long been a popular destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the historic and cultural richness of the region. Since many travelers to Florence prefer to visit Pompeii, it is important they know the easiest and most efficient way of getting there. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on travelling to Pompeii from Florence, including the different modes of transportation and a step-by-step guide to the journey.
Florence to Naples by Train
The best way to get from Florence to Naples, of which Pompeii is a suburb, is by direct train. This is usually the most economical option as well. Tickets can be purchased from the central station in Florence located at the Campo di Marte. The price of the journey will depend on the type of ticket and the schedule chosen. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours.
Naples to Pompeii by Car
Once reaching Naples, traveling by car is the best way to get to Pompeii. It takes approximately 25 minutes from Naples Central Station to the entrance gate of Pompeii. It is advisable to avoid driving in Naples if possible, as the traffic can be chaotic at times. It is also possible to take public buses or taxis, but due to the cost and the distance it is best to rent a car.
Accommodation in Pompeii
Whilst tourists can stay in a few hotels in Pompeii, it is advisable to stay in nearby Naples if the purpose of the trip is cultural exploration and sightseeing. There are a variety of high-quality and affordable hotels in Naples. It is also a much larger city with plenty of restaurants and attractions that Pompeii does not have.
Things To Do in Pompeii
The first stop for tourists who visit Pompeii is the ruins. The ruins of the ancient city are one of the most important archaeological areas in all of Europe, and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. Visitors can spend hours walking through the preserved streets and getting a taste of the ancient Roman lifestyle. After the ruins, tourists can visit the Museo Archeologico, which houses prehistoric and Roman artifacts discovered in the ruins. Lastly, tourists can visit the Solfatara di Pozzuoli, a geothermal area close to Pompeii that is popular for its stunning views and birdwatching.
Suggested Itinerary
The following is an example of an itinerary tourists can follow when travelling from Florence to Pompeii:
• Take the train from Florence to Naples
• Rent a car and drive from Naples to Pompeii
• Go to the ruins and explore the preserved streets
• Visit the Museo Archeologico
• Spend some time birdwatching at the Solfatara di Pozzuoli
• Check into a hotel in Naples and enjoy dinner in the city
• Drive back to Florence the next day.
This itinerary allows tourists to explore both Pompeii and Naples while still returning to Florence in one day.
Conclusion
Travelling from Florence to Pompeii is a great way to immerse oneself in the historic and cultural richness of the region. It is important to plan in advance and be aware of the different transportation options in order to make the most of the journey and ensure a pleasant and enjoyable trip.
Car Rental
The two most popular car rental companies in Italy are Europcar and Avis. They both have offices in all major cities, including Florence and Naples. For travelers wanting to be extra prepared and save time, cars can be pre-booked online before arriving in the country. It is always recommended to book ahead as the prices increase significantly when not booking in advance.
Various Transportation Modes
There are various ways to travel from Florence to Pompeii. The most efficient form is by taking the direct train from Florence to Naples, followed by renting a car to drive to the entrance gate of Pompeii. It is also possible to take a public bus or taxi but the cost of these is high and the journey is much longer. Other transportation options include renting a private car or taking the airport shuttle.
Accommodation and Attractions
Pompeii hosts several hotels, though most tourists end up staying in nearby Naples as there are more options. The two main attractions to visit in Pompeii are the ruins of the city and the Museo Archeologico. Sightseeing can then be completed at the nearby Solfatara di Pozzuoli.
Costs
The cost of the journey will depend mainly on the transportation chosen. Taking the direct train from Florence to Naples is usually the most economical option at about €20–40. Renting a car from Naples to Pompeii costs approximately €40, and accommodation in Naples is usually from €95 per night. It is therefore wise to plan ahead and book tickets in advance to ensure the best prices.
