Prior to the Italian governments’ decision in 2020 to reopen the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii to the public, understanding whether the archaeological complex remains open on Mondays was an important consideration for any travelers under a tight schedule. Of course, that is not the only thing to consider when planning a visit to Pompeii, as there are numerous factors to keep in mind such as ticket prices, types of tickets, and crowding. In fact, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions and can get very crowded, especially during the summer months. So, to answer the question: Is Pompeii closed on Mondays? Unfortunately, the answer is yes.
Anyone interested in visiting the ruins of Pompeii should note that the archaeological site is always closed on Mondays and opens to the public at 10am Tuesday through Sunday. The ticket office opens around 8.30am and the opening hours are generally until 7pm with last admission at 5pm. The ticket office closes an hour before the closing time, so it is important to plan accordingly. The last entry into the archaeological site is at 6pm. Visitors should also take note of the fact that the site can only be visited with a guided tour, as it is illegal to enter without one from April to October. Group tours can be arranged with a licensed guide ahead of time.
There are a number of factors which are sparking a growing interest in the ancient city, including its cultural and World Heritage value, its proximity to Naples, and the fact that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pompeii is not only a fascinating place to explore and an inspiring background for any photographer; the city’s day-to-day life has provided an invaluable glimpse into the past. Furthermore, the ruins give visitors a unique insight into life in ancient Rome and the civilizations that once lived there.
In addition to the regular opening hours, visitors to Pompeii can take advantage of several different types of tickets, each of which offers a varying level of access to the ruins. For instance, the basic ticket only allows access to the ruins, while the comprehensive ticket grants access to all the excavations, monuments, and archaeological sites. Furthermore, there are special ticket packages available for families, seniors, and students. It is important to check the availability of these packages before your visit and to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
In order to make the most of your visit to Pompeii, it is important to be aware of what to bring. Visitors should wear suitable clothes and comfortable shoes as the archaeological site is vast and some of the streets are cobbled. Furthermore, it is a good idea to bring plenty of water, a sun umbrella, and a hat for the hot summer months. Camera equipment is also recommended, although it is forbidden to use a professional photography tripod.
General Advice
When visiting Pompeii, it is important to take into account the local customs and laws as they do differ from other places in Italy. For example, visitors should not touch any artifacts while they are touring the site, as this is prohibited and could lead to penalties. It is generally not permitted to bring food inside, however, drinks are allowed. Furthermore, inappropriate behavior, such as speaking loudly or playing music, is not tolerated.
In terms of safety, visitors should not travel alone and should be aware of the potential dangers that lurk around the site. Pickpockets and mugging can happen, so staying vigilant and avoiding dark alleys is recommended. Additionally, visitors should also be mindful of sunburn and dehydration in the hot summer months. Some of the pathways within the ruins are uneven and slippery, so it is advisable to watch your step.
Temperature Range & Time Schedule
The temperatures in Pompeii can vary greatly, depending on the season and the time of day. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 40°C, while in the colder winter months, temperatures can drop down to 10°C. The temperatures inside the ruins can also differ greatly, so it is important to be prepared for this.
In terms of the time schedule, when visiting Pompeii, it is important to take into account the opening and closing times. Depending on the time of year, the site usually opens at 10am and closes at 7pm with last admission at 6pm. It is also important to keep in mind that the ticket office closes an hour before the closing time, so it is important to plan ahead.
Children’s Allowance
Children are allowed to visit Pompeii, however, it is important to take into account the age limits – generally only older children are allowed to enter the archaeological site. Furthermore, there are special tickets available for children, which they can purchase at reduced prices.
Children under 8 years of age may enter free, however, they must be accompanied by a responsible adult and must remain close at all times. Additionally, children under 12 years of age must be supervised by an adult at all times while they are in Pompeii.
Transportation and Accessibility
Pompeii is easily accessible by public transportation, car, or taxi. It is located about 30 kilometers from Naples and can be reached by train, bus, or taxi. When traveling by public transportation, it is important to take note of the train and bus schedules as the frequency can vary throughout the day.
For visitors with disabilities, there is wheelchair access throughout the site, however, not all public transportation options are accessible. Furthermore, certain pathways and cobblestone streets may prove difficult for wheelchair users and additional assistance may be required.
Parking Availability
In terms of parking availability, there are several parking options near the site, however, spaces can get crowded quickly and availability is not guaranteed. Some areas are private and require payment upon entry, while others are free of charge. Visitors should take note of the signs, as the parking regulations can vary.
Furthermore, driving inside Pompeii is forbidden and visitors should take into account the fact that the roads around the archaeological site can be narrow and difficult to navigate. It is also important to leave enough time to find a parking space, as finding an empty spot can often take longer than expected.
Food and Drinks
The archaeological site of Pompeii does not have any restaurants, however, there are several restaurants, cafes and gelaterias located nearby. Visitors should take into account that it is forbidden to bring food inside the archaeological site. Additionally, drinking in the ruins is also not allowed and visitors should refrain from taking any drinks onto the site.
Furthermore, there are several kiosks located around the site where visitors can get snacks, drinks and souvenirs. These kiosks usually offer reasonably priced products and are generally open from 10am to 7pm. Although, some may close earlier if there are not many visitors.
