Roman Ruins by Train from Naples: Pompeii, Herculaneum & Beyond
- realtravelguides
- Sep 6, 2025
- 2 min read
Naples is the perfect base for exploring some of the world’s most famous Roman ruins. Just a short train ride away, Pompeii and Herculaneum reveal entire cities frozen by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Combine them with the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses the best-preserved treasures from both sites. September and autumn bring cooler weather and fewer crowds, making it the ideal time to wander ancient streets.
What to Expect
Frequent Circumvesuviana trains from Naples to Pompeii (35 mins) and Herculaneum (20 mins)
Vast archaeological parks best enjoyed over several hours
Cooler temperatures in September, though still sunny
A mix of outdoor ruins and museum collections
A Bit of History
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD buried Pompeii and Herculaneum under ash and pumice, preserving homes, frescoes, and even food in startling detail. Rediscovered in the 18th century, they’ve offered unparalleled insight into daily Roman life.
Things to Do
Pompeii Archaeological Park – Walk ancient streets, amphitheatres, villas, and gardens. Don’t miss the Villa of the Mysteries with its vivid frescoes.
Herculaneum – Smaller but better preserved than Pompeii, with wooden beams, mosaics, and even food remnants intact.
Naples National Archaeological Museum – See mosaics, sculptures, and treasures removed from both sites, including the famous Alexander Mosaic.
Villa Poppaea (Oplontis) – Near Pompeii, a luxurious Roman villa thought to belong to Emperor Nero’s wife.
Stabiae Ruins – Less visited villas overlooking the Bay of Naples, accessible from Castellammare di Stabia station.
Campanian Cuisine
Campania is a food lover’s paradise, blending rich volcanic soil with coastal flavours. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and you’ll find the classic pizza Margherita at its best here. The region is also famous for buffalo mozzarella from the plains near Caserta, seafood pastas along the Amalfi Coast, and rustic vegetable dishes from the countryside. For dessert, don’t miss sfogliatella pastries or delizia al limone. Paired with local wines like Falanghina and Greco di Tufo, Campanian food is as bold and vibrant as the landscape itself.
Where to Stay/Eat
Stay: Naples offers the best base, with hotels near the station for easy day trips.
Eat: Pizzeria Da Michele in Naples for classic pizza; Add’u Mimi in Pompeii for local pasta and seafood.
Hidden Gems
Herculaneum’s Ancient Boat Sheds – Preserved skeletons tell the story of those who tried to flee.
Secret Cabinet at the Naples Museum – A collection of ancient erotic art hidden for centuries.
Travel Tips
Buy tickets online to skip queues, especially at Pompeii.
Start early in the day to avoid midday sun.
Wear sturdy shoes—the Roman streets are uneven.
Consider a combined ticket for Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Oplontis.
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