Travel
Visiting Pompeii is a must-see when you are travelling through Italy’s historical sites, and it is easy to do a tour from Sorrento. Whether you plan to go by car,train or bus, here is all the information you need to make your journey from Sorrento to Pompeii a smooth and enjoyable one.
Using a car and taking a road trip is the best option to reach Pompeii from Sorrento. Driving through the Amalfi coast is one of the most scenic routes to take; the road offers spectacular views of the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean and the nearby hills. The cost of such a trip is incredibly affordable and it takes about an hour and a half to reach Pompeii from Sorrento.
Another option is to catch a train from Sorrento to Naples, and then transfer to the Naples-Sorrento Circumvesuviana railway, which will take you straight to Ruins of Pompeii. This is a faster option compared to the car, as it takes only an hour to reach. Public transport is also much more cost-effective than hiring a private car.
The third option is to take a bus from Sorrento to the Ruins of Pompeii. Sorrento is well-connected to Pompeii’s nearby town of Castellammare by bus operated by Metronapoli. This is a direct route and takes approximately one hour and a half to reach the ruins. The cost of a one-way ticket is also very affordable.
Having a car to explore Pompeii is certainly a bonus. It allows you to go to different parts of the ruins and explore the vast array of roman ruins and artifacts, as well as its many cafes and shops. However, it can be a hassle to find parking so if you prefer public transport it is highly recommended.
Where to Stay
The ruins of Pompeii are an incredible site to behold and exploring the area is a great way to immerse yourself in history. There are several accommodation options to choose from in the area, ranging from inexpensive hotels to luxurious villas. It all depends on your budget, preferences and availability.
For those travelling on a shoestring budget, the nearby town of Castellammare has plenty of hostels that offer a variety of services for a fraction of the cost. They also provide private rooms for a little extra money. For those looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are plenty of hotels and villas in the area, offering different amenities and services.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can look for alternative accommodation options such as renting an apartment or house. This is a great way to get to know the charm of the Sorrento area without breaking the bank. With a bit of research, you can find some great options that are within your budget.
Whatever option you decide to go with, it is important to be aware of the best places to stay as not all accommodation choices in this area can offer a safe and pleasant experience. Read up on reviews to ensure that the place you choose provides the services that are suitable for you.
Things to Consider
When travelling to Pompeii from Sorrento, it is important to consider safety and comfort. Carrying some spare change for emergencies and for when you pay for tickets and meals is recommended. It is also important to wear sun protection and comfortable clothes, as the ruins can get incredibly hot in the summer months. Furthermore, it is advisable to have some bottled water, sunscreen and bug spray to make your trip more comfortable.
When visiting the ruins, make sure to get there early to avoid long queues. There are several guided tours available, which can make the experience of visiting the ruins much more enjoyable. Guides will often offer insights about the historic site, as well as stories about its past. If you are travelling with children, guided tours are especially recommended.
It is also important to bear in mind that the site of Pompeii is vast, and will take you several hours to explore. It is recommended to bring a snack, some comfortable shoes and plenty of water. This will allow you to enjoy the experience to its fullest and make the most of the beautiful scenery.
When leaving Pompeii, you have to bear in mind that the public services will be quite crowded, so it is wise to plan ahead and leave the site when it is not too busy. Furthermore, you should always keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpockets may target tourists in crowded areas.
What to See
Pompeii is a city with a huge amount to see and explore.The ruins of the city are a great example of how advanced Roman civilization was, and there are plenty of archaeological sites to explore. From the Forum to the House of the Vettii, you’ll find plenty to take your breath away.
Aside from exploring the ruins, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to visit. Pompeii is renowned for its delicious pizza, and you can try some of the amazing seafood dishes at the local restaurants. Make sure to check out the lovely farmers’ markets as well, where you will find fresh produce and seafood.
There are also plenty of other attractions in the area, from the nearby Amalfi Coast to the charming villages of Ercolano and the island of Ischia. Make sure to take the time to explore these areas and savour the natural beauty of the region.
Finally, if you have time, try visiting the nearby Vesuvius volcano. You’ll be able to explore the area and its fascinating history, and even take a hike up the volcano to get an incredible view of the Bay of Naples.
Where to Shop
Exploring the ancient ruins in Pompeii should certainly take priority on your itinerary, but it’s also important to take some time to explore the city’s bustling streets and shops. For souvenirs and handmade gifts, the streets around the main tourist attractions are great places to start.
In Pompeii, you can find a wide variety of items such as traditional ceramics, leather goods and other locally-made crafts. There are also plenty of well-stocked souvenir shops, which feature most of the classic items associated with Italy such as yummy gelato and colourful postcards.
If you’re looking for something more unique, the smaller alleys and side streets of Pompeii are definitely worth a visit. Here, you’ll find small shops that offer custom jewellery and handmade clothing. You might even stumble upon a hidden gem – an interesting trinket that you can bring back with you to show off to friends and family.
Finally, you should definitely check out the farmers’ market in Pompeii. Here, you’ll find some truly delicious and authentic local produce, from freshly caught fish to organic vegetables. This is definitely a great place to buy some treats for your hotel room or kitchen, as well as some special souvenirs to take home with you.
Wellness and Relaxation
After a long day of sightseeing, you may need some relaxation and self-care to rewind and rejuvenate. There are plenty of wellness opportunities in the area, such as yoga classes, massage services and spas.
In addition to these, there are several beach clubs scattered along the coast, with plenty of swimming and sunbathing opportunities. For those seeking a spot of luxury, there are several wellness retreats in nearby towns, offering a variety of treatments such as detox programmes, Ayurvedic therapies and Reiki.
Furthermore, there are a variety of natural attractions to explore, such as the stunning coastal walks and nature trails. For a unique experience, try exploring the caves of the area. These are great for photography, as well as for a bit of peace and solitude.
Another popular way to relax in the area is to take a boat trip along the coast, which offers stunning views and a good chance to observe dolphins and other sea creatures. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try snorkelling, as there are plenty of spots with great visibility.
Finally, a great way to relax and recharge is simply to take some time for yourself and visit the many cafes and restaurants in Pompeii. Enjoy some Italian coffee and take some time to sit back and soak up the atmosphere.
