Traveling to the Amalfi Coast and looking for a day trip from Sorrento? Pompeii is an amazing option if you happen to be craving a break from swimming in the Mediterranean and sipping Aperol spritzes to your heart’s content during sunset aperitivo.
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking through these ruins feels like stepping into a real-life time capsule. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers one of the most detailed views of everyday Roman society — from villas to bakeries to amphitheaters.
Getting to Pompeii from Sorrento is relatively simple and there are a few transportation options you can take: train, bus, private tour company, or private transfer. Keep reading for all the ways you can get to the ancient city of Pompeii from Sorrento.
By Train (Easiest & Most Popular)
Take the Circumvesuviana Train direct to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri
Where to board: Sorrento Train Station (Centrally located, near Piazza Angelina Lauro)
Line: Napoli–Sorrento line of the Circumvesuviana railway
Travel time: About 30–35 minutes
Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes
Cost: Around €2.80 one-way
Tickets: Buy tickets at the station kiosks
Pros: Cheap and direct
– Drops you off 5 minutes walk from Pompeii’s main entrance (Porta Marina)
Returning to Sorrento: Trains run until around 9:30–10:00 PM, but check the current schedule when you arrive. Don’t wait too late—stations get quiet after dusk.
By Bus (Less Common)
Take the EAV Bus local bus to Pompei Piazza Anfiteatro or Pompei Scavi
Where to board: Sorrento Circumvesuviana Station
Travel time: ~45–60 minutes depending on traffic
Cost: About €3–€4
Tickets: Buy in advance at a local shop or station kiosk
Pros: Less busy and seats more likely
Cons: Run less frequently than trains
– Longer journey & potential delays with traffic
By Taxi or Private Transfer (Comfortable but Pricey)
Book a private transfer via hotel concierge or driving service. Alternatively, there are private tour companies via online platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator.
Travel time: About 30–40 minutes depending on traffic
Cost: About €50–€70 one-way for a taxi
Pros: Direct hotel-to-site service
– Good for families or groups
Cons: More expensive
Final Thoughts
- Wear comfortable shoes — Pompeii’s site is huge and full of uneven stone paths
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat (there’s little shade and it’s hot)
- Consider buying Pompeii tickets online in advance to skip the line
- Guided tours are available at the entrance or online if you want historical context
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