The ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., offers a unique insight into Roman life. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious explorer, Pompeii is a must-visit.

This guide will provide you with practical tips and advice to make your trip from Rome to Pompeii as smooth and rewarding as possible.

How to Get to Pompeii from Rome

There are a few key ways to get to Pompeii from Rome. I, personally, have done two different tours to get there from Rome, but there are certainly other ways for those feeling a bit more adventurous.

Book a tour.

If you're looking for simple, book at tour.

It's important to do your research on the various companies that offer tours to Pompeii from Rome, as prices and services can vary greatly. Some tours offer just transportation, while others also include a guided tour of Pompeii once you arrive.

I personally did this on the 12-hour From Rome: Pompeii, Amalfi Coast and Positano Day Trip. I won't lie – it was a long day. But I was traveling with my mom, and I was looking for something simple and convenient for both of us. Booking with a tour company was nice because we simply showed up, napped on the bus, and enjoyed our destination. The only downside of a busy tour like this is that you don't have as much time to explore as you'd probably like.

Drive

I have never personally driven in Europe outside of Greece–and I'd like that to remain so. That being said, if you're willing to conquer Italian roads, go for it. Be sure to secure an international driver's permit before your vacation.

These generally cost $20, and you can apply for a permit by mail. When you're renting a car, if you don't drive stick–be sure to specify you need an automatic.

Take the train

Taking the train from Rome to Pompeii is relatively simple and allows you the chance to explore at your own pace. You'll take the high-speed train from Rome's Termini Station to Naples, which takes about an hour and twenty minutes.

From Naples, you can catch a Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii Scavi station, which takes about 40 minutes. There are 35+ trains between Naples and Pompeii, so your schedule can be pretty flexible.

I suggest booking train tickets on Omio. This isn't an ad! I used it all the time when my boyfriend was living in Italy.

Tips for Visiting Pompeii

Now that you know how to get to Pompeii from Rome, here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

Be prepared for some emotions

While Pompeii has fascinated us for years, it is a really sad place. Seeing the molds of human being's last moments is very, very sad. While it is an incredible and beautiful place to visit, remember you are walking on legitimate roads of tragedy.

Carry water

There is little to no shade in Pompeii. The first time I visited Pompeii was in March. It was cool, sunny, and so enjoyable.

The second was in the middle of July with 105-degree temperatures. You absolutely must carry water. Pompeii is huge, and you won't make it very far without hydrating.

Wear comfortable shoes

As mentioned before, Pompeii is huge. You can cover it all in about 2 hours if you're not interested in seeing every last corner of it. However, most people will likely want to spend at least half a day exploring. That's a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Also, keep in mind that the streets are made up of large stones and can be uneven or slippery in some areas.

Bring sun protection

In addition to staying hydrated, it's important to protect yourself from the sun while visiting Pompeii. Wear a hat and sunscreen, and consider bringing an umbrella or parasol for extra shade.

Take a guided tour

While exploring Pompeii on your own can be fun and adventurous, taking a guided tour can enhance your experience by providing historical context and interesting facts about the ancient city. Plus, you won't have to worry about getting lost or missing important sites.

That being said, I would choose a tour that allows at least an hour of free time. Once you get in there, you're really going to want to start exploring and getting into the nitty gritty on your own.