Naples and Pompeii, two mythical places, so close that they are almost one.

First Naples, a great Mediterranean city, rich in stories to discover and increasingly appreciated by tourists and critics alike for its cultural diversity and rich food and wine.

And then Pompeii, which for many of the tourists who choose us, remains one of the most incredible sites they have ever seen.

If you are considering a trip that combines history, breathtaking views and unforgettable flavors, then Naples and Pompeii are the perfect combination.

If someone were to ask me what to see in and around Naples in 3 days, I would certainly say that it is not a lot, but that Pompeii deserves a thorough visit because of the uniqueness of its excavations. Excavations that are truly unique in the whole world. In three days, then, you can experience the authentic soul of Naples, get lost in the streets of an ancient buried city and discover hidden corners that tell centuries of history.

Ready* to hit the road? Here is our brilliant and engaging itinerary to experience these two Italian jewels at their best.

Naples and Pompeii: day 1 – Historic Center

In this itinerary between Naples and Pompeii, we dedicate the first day to the city of Partenope.

Between its picturesque alleys, art stations, waterfront and good food, Naples is becoming increasingly rich in places to discover and little restaurants to visit.

Naples has a very strong soul, so I recommend that you lose yourself in its streets and don’t just stop at the historic center. But more about that later.

Let’s go in order.

The first day is dedicated to Naples and its vibrant soul.

• Morning: The historic center and the magic of Spaccanapoli Naples is experienced by walking, so lace up the most comfortable shoes you have and start at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, where the Church of Jesus with its unique facade awaits you. Then make a stop at the Basilica of Santa Chiara, famous for its tiled cloister that looks like something out of a fairy tale.
• Lunch: The ritual of Neapolitan pizza What trip to Naples would be without a pizza? Stop at one of the historic pizzerias on Via dei Tribunali: Sorbillo, Di Matteo or Dal Presidente are a guarantee of authenticity and pure taste.
• Afternoon: Hidden Treasures and Breathtaking Views After lunch, it’s time to discover one of the most fascinating places in Naples: the Sansevero Chapel, where the Veiled Christ will leave you speechless. Then move on to Castel Sant’Elmo to admire Naples from above. The view from up here is something you will not easily forget!
• Evening: Relaxation and waterfront After a busy day, treat yourself to a romantic stroll along Via Caracciolo and perhaps a sea-view dinner in Mergellina. The freshest fish and a delicious sfogliatella for dessert will end your first day on a high note.

Day 2: A leap in time among the ruins of Pompeii

The second day in theitinerary between Naples and Pompeii necessarily takes us to the former Roman province, to one of the most influential and visited historical places in the world.

Pompeii is famous, unfortunately, for the eruption of Vesuvius that occurred in 79 A.D. under the Flavian dynasty with Emperor Titus, who razed it to the ground in one of the most destructive volcanic eruptions of all time.

Why is Pompeii famous all over the world? First of all, a clarification: the eruption of Vesuvius did not exactly destroy Pompeii, but hid it under six meters of pyroclastic materials.

It all begins at Herculaneum, in 1738, when the first excavation campaign was started thanks to Charles of Bourbon. In 1748, however, those of Pompeii began.

But let’s get straight to the point, what is a must-visit in Pompeii?

• Morning: Immersion in the Pompeii excavations. Take the Circumvesuviana or train from Naples and in less than an hour you are catapulted into the past.
• Not to be missed:
  • The Forum, the political and social heart of Pompeii.
  • The House of the Faun, one of the most luxurious villas of antiquity.
  • The frescoes of the Villa of the Mysteries, among the most enigmatic in all of Roman art.
  • The Lupanare, historical evidence of daily life at the time.

Lose yourself in the streets of ancient Pompeii and visit thermal complexes, including the Forum Baths.

Another must-see is thegarden of the fugitives, where casts of 2 households are still present. The scene is truly incredible, and gives back a glimpse not only of the historical but also of the human side of ancient Pompeii.

Day 3: Beyond the center, discovering a lesser-known Naples

As we said at the beginning, Naples is more than just the historic center. And the third day will introduce you to perhaps an even more fascinating side.

• Morning: Certosa di San Martino and Castel Sant’Elmo Start the day with a visit to the Certosa di San Martino, a Baroque masterpiece with a breathtaking view of the city. Then, head to Castel Sant’Elmo, the castle shaped like a six-pointed star, unique in the world.
• Lunch: A dive into the flavors of Naples Descend down the wonderful Pedamentina staircase to the Pignasecca Market, the paradise of Neapolitan street food: a cuoppo of fried food, a baba, and you’re ready to go again;
• Afternoon: Naples Underground or the Spanish Quarters? If you love mysterious stories, Napoli Sotterranea will fascinate you with its hidden tunnels and the secrets of the city beneath the city. If, on the other hand, you want to breathe in the more authentic side of Naples, the Quartieri Spagnoli will captivate you with Maradona’s murals and the energy of its narrow streets.
• Evening: Sunset at Posillipo End the trip with a scenic dinner at Posillipo, watching the sun go down behind Vesuvius. The perfect way to say goodbye to Naples…with a promise to return soon!

Conclusion

Three days between Naples and Pompeii is a concentration of history, culture, good food and postcard views. Whether you are a lover of art, nature or good food, here you will find everything you need for an unforgettable trip.

If you want to discover these places with an expert guide and have an even more immersive experience, join our Partenope in Tour tours! Naples is waiting for you with its stories, its flavors and its unique magic!