Train From Naples to Pompeii

One of the easiest and most popular day trips from Naples is to see the incredible ruins of Pompeii, one of the ancient Roman cities buried by an explosion of nearby Mt. Vesuvius. The excavation is a short 17.3 miles (28 km) from Naples, and there’s a train connecting the two that makes it simple to explore the ruins.

While you’re in Naples, either before or after your visit to Pompeii, don’t miss the phenomenal collection at the National Archaeological Museum - it’s where many of the artifacts removed from Pompeii are now on display.

Frequent Trains from Naples to Pompei

The train line connecting Napoli Garibaldi station with Pompei (the name of the modern city near the excavation, the latter of which is spelled Pompeii) is called the Circumvesuviana. It’s a slow local train that hugs the base of Mt. Vesuvius, hence the name. The Naples-Sorrento line stops at Pompei Scavi-Villa Misteri, which is the station very close to the excavation.

Trains depart Naples for Pompei 2-3 times per hour during most of the day, and there are a few trains per day that stop at fewer points along the way - those trips are faster. Usually, the trip takes about 35-40 minutes. There’s no need to change trains, but there are lots of stops en route. Tickets are only about $4 for the train.

Note that weekends and holidays typically mean less frequent service and sometimes longer travel times.

Direct Trains from Naples to Pompei

The direct trains from Naples to Pompei are the fastest and least expensive option. There are some routes you can choose that require a change along the way, but these not only add an hour to your travel time, they’re also several times more costly than the direct train.

Amenities on Trains from Naples to Pompei

The trains used for this route are typically older cars and they don’t travel very fast. Reservations aren’t even an option, and if you’re visiting during the high season you may not find a seat - but you’re welcome to stand. It’s sort of like a subway in that regard, albeit above-ground.

Naples and Pompei Train Stations

Napoli Centrale is Naples' biggest station, and it's on Piazza Garibaldi which is the main hub for the city and regional buses. There's also a Metro (subway) station connected to Centrale called Napoli Piazza Garibaldi. Different trains arrive to different parts of the station, but it's easy to find via directional signage. It’s technically called Napoli Garibaldi.

The train station for the Pompeii excavations is in the modern Italian city of Pompei, which is spelled differently from the ancient city. It’s called Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Misteri.