Top Things to Do in Pompeii’s Ancient Ruins Near Naples

With its well-preserved streets, frescoes, homes, and public buildings, it's an archaeological site that reveals centuries of Roman civilization. Whether planning a day trip from Naples or pairing it with a hike to Mount Vesuvius, this guide explores the most remarkable things to do in Pompeii.

Top things to do in Pompeii: What to see in Pompeii

Pompeii Archaeological Park

Located in central Naples, the Naples National Archaeological Museum holds a world-class collection of Greco-Roman antiquities. It showcases mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and nearby sites. Highlights include the stunning Alexander Mosaic, the fascinating Secret Cabinet, and the impressive Farnese Collection, each offering an unforgettable glimpse into the grandeur of Roman art. 

[Opening hours: The museum is open from 9:00 to 19:30 on Wednesdays through Mondays. On Tuesdays, it is closed.]

Pompeii Amphitheater

Dating back to 80 BC, this remarkable amphitheater is the oldest surviving example of Roman engineering. Its construction lacks an underground hypogeum, providing valuable insights into the ingenuity of early Roman engineering. Remarkably, on a free-entry Sunday in October 2024, over 36,000 visitors explored the site, reflecting its enduring appeal.

Source: news.com.au

Forum of Pompeii

Pompeii's thriving civic, religious, and commercial hub was the Forum. Surrounded by impressive temples, basilicas, and bustling marketplaces, it perfectly showcases the brilliance of Roman city planning. With Mount Vesuvius in the background, it remains one of the most iconic parts of the ruins.

Stabian Baths

Dating back to the 2nd century BC, the Stabian Baths are among the oldest Roman public baths. This historic complex features caldarium, tepidarium, and frigidarium rooms, as well as separate facilities for men and women. Stucco decorations and frescoes highlight Roman engineering and leisure culture.

Villa of the Mysteries

Positioned just beyond Pompeii’s city walls, this Roman villa is best known for its vivid frescoes, likely depicting Dionysian rituals. It combines elegant rural architecture with insights into Roman religion and social customs.

Lupanar (Brothel)

The Lupanar is Pompeii’s most famous brothel, providing valuable insight into Roman views on sexuality and trade. Its small rooms, stone beds, and vivid frescoes reveal how sex work was both organized and accepted in ancient Roman culture. 

If you're interested in understanding the daily lives of ordinary Romans, this site provides a raw and honest perspective. Think about adding the must-see sights of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius to your agenda while you're sightseeing.

House of the Faun

This large residence spans almost an entire city block. It houses intricate mosaics, such as the famous Alexander Mosaic, along with a bronze statue of a dancing faun. The home’s scale and design reflect the wealth of its original owners. In the Pompeii Archaeological Excavations experience, it is also a must-see.

Temple of Apollo

Built in the 6th century BC, this temple is one of Pompeii’s oldest religious sites. It combines Greek and Roman architectural styles and originally held statues of Apollo and Diana. Its location near the Forum emphasizes its significance.

Garden of the Fugitives

Located in an old vineyard, this site preserves plaster casts of 13 victims caught in their final moments during the eruption. It stands as a powerful reminder of the tragedy and the human cost of the disaster.

Basilica

This impressive hall near the Forum served as the hub of legal and commercial activity in Pompeii. Featuring rows of columns and a spacious interior, it showcases Roman civic architecture and public life.

House of the Vettii

Owned by two affluent freedmen, the House of the Vettii stands out for its vivid mythological frescoes and refined design. The detailed artwork, especially scenes from Roman mythology, offers a direct glimpse into the cultural tastes of Pompeii’s wealthy class. I recommend spending extra time in this villa; the layout and preservation make it one of the most immersive stops in the ruins.

Pompeii day trip from Naples- Exploring ancient Pompeii

Tips Pompeii archaeological site

• Wear comfortable shoes: The ancient streets are paved with uneven cobblestones, reflecting the city’s original layout and age.
• Know where the facilities are: Restrooms and cafés are located near the entrance and scattered around the site.
• Use a map: A digital or paper map helps navigate the large archaeological area and locate major attractions.
• Bring essentials: With limited shade throughout the site, it’s important to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the summer months.
• Book tickets early: Pre-purchased skip-the-line tickets help avoid long queues during busy hours.

For a comprehensive grasp of the area's long-standing mysteries, consider including Underground Naples encounters if you're also interested in them.

Conclusion

Pompeii’s ruins are more than historical remnants; they reveal the rhythms of ancient Roman life, interrupted yet preserved by nature’s force. From its bustling Forum to quiet villas and tragic casts in the Garden of the Fugitives, Pompeii offers a layered experience of art, daily life, and history. 

Just outside Naples, it continues to resonate with visitors drawn to the story written in stone and ash. Dream Tourism provides professionally planned trips, whether you're seeking a curated experience or are organising your schedule.