21 Things to Do in Pompeii: Unearthing the Secrets of an Ancient Roman City

Pompeii, a city frozen in time, offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the everyday lives of ancient Romans. Buried under volcanic ash and pumice in 79 AD after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, this UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to captivate archaeologists, historians, and tourists alike. Exploring Pompeii is like stepping into a time machine, with its remarkably preserved streets, houses, temples, and public spaces that paint a vivid picture of life nearly 2,000 years ago. Whether you’re an avid history buff or simply a curious traveler, this guide explores 21 unmissable things to do in Pompeii that will enrich your visit to one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures.

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1. Explore the Amphitheater

Built around 80 BC, the Amphitheater of Pompeii is one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters in the world and could accommodate up to 20,000 spectators. It served as a venue for gladiatorial combat and public spectacles, offering entertainment that mirrored the Roman Empire’s penchant for lavish and sometimes brutal performances. Walking through the oval-shaped structure, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd and the clash of weapons, transporting visitors back to an era of grandeur and grit.

Architecturally, the Pompeii Amphitheater set the benchmark for subsequent Roman amphitheaters, such as the Colosseum in Rome. Its design efficiently managed large crowds with tiered seating and well-planned entryways. While the Colosseum is more famous, the Pompeii Amphitheater holds a special charm due to its intimate scale and age, showcasing the ingenuity of early Roman engineering. It’s a great starting point for your Pompeii journey, offering a lens into the city’s social and cultural priorities.

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2. Visit the Forum

At the heart of ancient Pompeii lies the Forum, the city’s central hub of political, commercial, and religious life. Surrounded by grand columns and framed by significant buildings like the Temple of Jupiter and the Basilica, the Forum offers visitors an awe-inspiring view of the city’s architectural ingenuity. The Forum, much like a modern city square, was a bustling center when Pompeii thrived, hosting markets, judicial proceedings, and social gatherings.

As you stroll through the cobblestone floor of the Forum, take time to imagine the rhythmic activity of ancient Pompeii’s citizens. Vendors exchanging goods, magistrates holding court, and priests conducting ceremonies—it’s an immersive environment that brings history to life. Even though parts of these structures have been eroded over time, much of the Forum remains intact, making it one of the best places to envision the city’s vibrant past.

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3. Discover the Villa of the Mysteries

The Villa of the Mysteries is renowned for its enigmatic frescoes, which depict a Dionysian initiation ritual. Located slightly outside Pompeii’s main gates, this villa represents the height of Roman opulence, showcasing intricate designs, luxurious décor, and a deep connection to religious and cultural practices of the time.

The vibrant frescoes have become a focus of extensive historical and artistic interpretation, with their detailed depiction of figures and mythological scenes offering insights into ancient Roman life and belief systems. You can marvel at the skilled craftsmanship that has preserved the colors and themes so vividly over centuries, creating an otherworldly experience for visitors. The Villa of the Mysteries perfectly combines artistic beauty and archaeological importance.

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4. Walk Through the Garden of the Fugitives

Not all of Pompeii’s marvels are architectural; some are poignant reminders of human suffering. The Garden of the Fugitives is a striking site dedicated to the memory of Pompeii’s victims. In this hauntingly beautiful space, visitors will find plaster casts of 13 individuals caught in their final moments during Mount Vesuvius’ eruption.

These casts, created by filling volcanic voids with plaster, preserve the last agonizing positions of the victims and offer a deeply emotional window into the devastating tragedy. Combined with the serene greenery of the garden surroundings, the juxtaposition of life and death in this spot encourages reflection on the fragility of existence. It’s one of the most moving experiences in Pompeii, serving as a memorial that connects the past with the present.

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5. Marvel at the House of the Faun

The House of the Faun, one of Pompeii’s largest and most luxurious residences, epitomizes the wealth and sophistication of the city’s elite. The house covers an astonishing 32,000 square feet and is named after the bronze statue of a faun dancing in the atrium, a symbol of artistic grace and celebration.

Inside, you’ll find some of the most remarkable mosaics preserved from antiquity, including the famous “Alexander Mosaic,” which depicts the Battle of Issus between Alexander the Great and Persian King Darius III. Visiting this house transports you into the daily life of Pompeii’s elite, as the building’s layout—from its opulent Roman courtyards to intricate tile work—reflects the affluence and tastes of its inhabitants. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in ancient art and architecture.

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6. Explore the Temple of Apollo

Dedicated to the god Apollo, this temple stands as one of the oldest structures in Pompeii, dating back to the 6th century BC. The Temple of Apollo reflects a mix of Greek and Roman architectural styles, illustrating the city’s cultural and religious evolution over centuries. Positioned in a prime location near the Forum, this temple holds great importance as a center of worship and civic pride.

The bronze statues of Apollo and Diana, which once adorned the temple’s courtyard, have been moved to the Naples National Archaeological Museum, but replicas stand in their place. The surrounding columns and altars make the Temple of Apollo a striking location for photography, offering an excellent balance of architectural beauty and historical significance.

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7. Visit the Stabian Baths

The Stabian Baths provide a detailed glimpse into the leisure and hygiene practices of ancient Pompeians. These public baths, divided into sections for men and women, feature heated rooms, cooling pools, and even exercise areas, showcasing the advanced engineering techniques Romans used for plumbing and heating.

Their ornate decorations, including frescoes and stucco reliefs, elevate the baths beyond a mere functional space to a symbol of communal life and social activity. Visiting the Stabian Baths not only tells a story of daily life but also highlights how Pompeii was at the forefront of urban development, with infrastructure that rivaled modern amenities in many respects.

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8. Experience the Lupanar (Brothel)

The Lupanar, Pompeii’s most famous brothel, offers a unique perspective on the social norms and practices of ancient Roman society. Its small rooms feature stone beds and suggestive frescoes that served both as decoration and as a form of “menu” for clients.

While it may be uncomfortable for some visitors, the Lupanar provides fascinating insights into the commerce and morality of the time. Archaeological evidence suggests that Pompeii was an open and diverse society, and this establishment is one of the best-preserved examples of such openness. The Lupanar helps shed light on the many facets of Pompeian culture, giving visitors a fuller understanding of the ancient city.

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9. Discover the House of the Vettii

The House of the Vettii is another remarkably preserved example of Roman domestic architecture. Owned by two freedmen—former slaves turned wealthy merchants—this house speaks volumes about social mobility in Pompeii.

Its walls boast vivid frescoes depicting mythological scenes, including the famous depiction of Priapus, god of fertility, weighing his enlarged phallus on a scale—a scene both humorous and profound. The House of the Vettii, with its grand courtyards, elaborate design, and artistic richness, serves as a testament to cultural and economic diversity in Pompeii. It’s also a key site for scholars aiming to understand Roman aesthetics and daily life.

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10. Walk Along Via dell’Abbondanza

Via dell’Abbondanza, Pompeii’s main street, was the lifeline of the city, bustling with shops, houses, public buildings, and pedestrians going about their daily routines. Stretching from the Forum to the outskirts, this street offers an immersive experience of ancient Pompeii’s urban vibrancy.

Walking this main thoroughfare, you’ll spot remnants of bakeries, taverns, and workshops, all of which provide insights into the commercial and social dynamics of the city. Aligning your steps with ancient Pompeians, it’s easy to imagine the lively atmosphere, from the chatter of vendors to the hum of public discourse. The street also offers occasional glimpses of Mount Vesuvius looming in the background, a stark reminder of the city’s fate.

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11. Visit the Basilica

The Basilica in Pompeii is one of the most important public buildings in the city, serving as a multi-purpose facility for legal proceedings, economic transactions, and municipal governance. Located near the Forum, this massive structure provides an excellent example of early Roman basilica architecture that would later influence the design of Christian churches.

The Basilica’s grand columns, sprawling interior, and open layout make it a site of both historical and architectural significance. Visitors can admire the building’s rectangular design, which features three aisles separated by rows of Corinthian columns. Despite some structural damage, the Basilica still exudes an aura of authority and importance, echoing the power and organization of Roman law and commerce. Walking through its ruins, you can practically envision assemblies and legal disputes unfolding thousands of years ago.

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12. Explore the House of Menander

Another exceptional highlight is the House of Menander, named after a fresco of the Greek poet Menander found within its walls. This aristocratic house is one of the best-preserved examples of a high-status Roman residence. It covers a vast expanse with atriums, private baths, and a peristyle garden, reflecting the wealth and sophistication of its owners.

What makes this house especially valuable in archaeological terms is the sheer volume of frescoes and mosaics that have been preserved. These decorative elements tell stories of mythology and daily life, offering invaluable insights into the cultural priorities of Roman elites. Exploring the intricate rooms of this house feels like entering a museum of ancient art, complete with vivid visuals steeped in historical significance.

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13. Admire the Temple of Jupiter

Standing at the northern end of the Forum, the Temple of Jupiter was one of Pompeii’s most significant religious landmarks, dedicated to the king of Roman gods. This temple played a central role in the civic and religious life of the city, reflecting the deeply ingrained beliefs of the population.

While much of the structure was damaged by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the remains of its towering columns still dominate the Forum’s skyline. From its elevated position, the temple offers stunning views of both the Forum and the distant Mount Vesuvius, creating a remarkable backdrop for photos. A visit to the Temple of Jupiter provides an opportunity to meditate on the intersection of religion, politics, and public life in ancient Pompeii.

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14. Visit the Necropolis of Porta Nocera

Pompeii isn’t just about public spaces and homes—it’s also a city that tells stories about its dead. The Necropolis of Porta Nocera is one of the city’s principal burial sites, located just outside the city gates. It provides insights into Roman funerary customs, including the design of tombs and the rituals of honoring the deceased.

Here, you’ll find elaborately decorated tombs, epitaphs, and urns that encapsulate the lives of Pompeii’s citizens, from high-ranking officials to ordinary townsfolk. The site emphasizes the Romans’ reverence for their ancestors and their belief in an afterlife. Visiting the necropolis creates a balance in understanding Pompeii—not only how its citizens lived but also how they mourned, honored, and remembered their dead.

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15. Explore Teatro Grande and Teatro Piccolo

Entertainment played a pivotal role in ancient Pompeii, and no visit would be complete without exploring the city’s two main theaters. The Teatro Grande (Large Theatre) and Teatro Piccolo (Small Theatre) are remarkable structures that served different purposes in Pompeian society.

The Teatro Grande is a grand amphitheater-style venue designed to host dramatic performances and other public gatherings. Sitting in the semi-circular seating area, you’ll immediately sense the cultural importance placed on the arts in Roman life. Meanwhile, the Teatro Piccolo, also called the Odeon, was an intimate space used for musical performances and poetry readings. Its superb acoustics and intricate design highlight the Romans’ love for refined entertainment. Together, these theaters illustrate how Pompeians entertained and enriched their cultural lives.

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16. Discover Fullonica di Stephanus

For an insight into ancient Roman industry and daily life, head to the Fullonica di Stephanus, a laundromat of ancient times. The fullonica is essentially a Roman laundry facility where clothes were cleaned, dyed, and even repaired. Here, workers used unconventional cleaning agents like urine to wash garments and restore their color—just one example of Roman ingenuity in resource utilization.

As you tour the Fullonica, you’ll notice large basins, washing areas, and remnants of tools that paint a vivid picture of the hard labor that went into maintaining Pompeian wardrobes. It’s a fascinating detour from the grand villas and temples, offering a glimpse into the blue-collar life that kept the city running.

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17. Visit Bakeries in Pompeii

Food production was a key part of Pompeii’s economy, and several excavated bakeries offer a tasty glimpse into this industry. The ancient bakeries of Pompeii remain remarkably well-preserved, complete with milling stones, ovens, and even loaves of bread that were carbonized during Vesuvius’ eruption.

Walking through these bakeries, you can imagine wooden shelves stacked with freshly baked bread and the hustle and bustle of workers grinding grain into flour. One notable bakery, the Pistrinum of Modestus, still contains tools used thousands of years ago. The preserved details in these bakeries make them a favorite stop for visitors interested in the culinary history of ancient Rome.

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18. Explore Inns, Restaurants, and Taverns

Pompeii was a city teeming with social life, and its many thermopolia (ancient restaurants or snack bars) and inns showcase the Romans’ love for food, wine, and conversation. These small establishments, often located along Pompeii’s main streets, catered to the city’s working class and travelers.

Archaeologists have uncovered counters with inset jars used for storing hot food, along with frescoes advertising dishes or services. Sites like the Thermopolium of Vetutius Placidus are particularly notable for their well-preserved features. Visiting these spaces sheds light on the communal culture of Pompeii and how its people dined outside their homes.

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19. Walk Through Quadriporticus di Teatros

Adjacent to Pompeii’s theaters, the Quadriporticus di Teatros was originally a shaded colonnaded area used as a social gathering space. Later, it was repurposed as housing quarters and training grounds for gladiators, illustrating the changing functionality of Pompeii’s structures over time.

This site captures the intersection of leisure, social interaction, and the more rugged side of Roman entertainment. Strolling through the columns, you can imagine gladiators preparing for battle in the nearby amphitheater. It’s a unique space that bridges the gap between culture and combat, making it a worthy addition to your Pompeii itinerary.

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20. Visit Herculaneum or Mount Vesuvius Tour Options

While Pompeii is among the most famous archaeological sites in the world, it’s worth pairing your visit with a trip to nearby Herculaneum or even hiking Mount Vesuvius itself.

Herculaneum, another city destroyed by the same eruption that buried Pompeii, offers a smaller yet better-preserved experience. Its buildings, frescoes, and wooden structures have survived with breathtaking detail, thanks to being buried deeper under volcanic material.

Alternatively, you can summit Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and a closer inspection of the volcanic crater that reshaped history. Whether you’re drawn to comparative archaeology or enjoy the thrill of hiking, these tours complement your Pompeii experience beautifully.

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21. Enjoy Guided Tours with Archaeologists

To elevate your visit to Pompeii, consider taking a guided tour with an archaeologist. These expert guides provide an in-depth narrative that connects the sites to their historical, cultural, and social contexts, enriching your understanding of the city. Specialized tours are available, ranging from family-friendly options to themes focused on art, architecture, or everyday life in Pompeii.

The benefit of guided tours is that you’ll gain insights and trivia often missed when exploring on your own. From snippets about Pompeian diets to stories of individual merchants or slaves, a knowledgeable guide brings Pompeii to life in vivid detail. It’s an investment in truly understanding the layers of history embedded in this ancient city.

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FAQs About Visiting Pompeii

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions to help you plan your trip to Pompeii:

1. What is the best time to visit Pompeii?
   The best time to visit is during spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October), when the weather is cooler and crowds are smaller.
2. How long should I plan to spend at Pompeii?
   A minimum of 4–6 hours is recommended to explore the major highlights, but a full day allows for a deeper dive into the history and nuances of the site.
3. Are there guided tours available?
   Yes, numerous guided tours, including private and group options, are available. Many focus on specific themes like art or daily life.
4. What should I wear when visiting?
   Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Pompeii has uneven terrain and limited shaded areas, so dress appropriately for the weather.
5. Can I visit Mount Vesuvius from Pompeii?
   Yes, Mount Vesuvius is just a short drive away and can be included in the same itinerary. Several operators offer combined Pompeii and Vesuvius tours.

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Conclusion

Pompeii is more than just an archaeological site—it’s a time capsule offering unparalleled insights into ancient Roman life. From its grand amphitheaters and luxurious villas to its bustling streets and poignant reminders of tragedy, Pompeii is a journey into the past that continues to captivate and educate visitors thousands of years after its destruction.

Whether you’re marveling at frescoes in the Villa of the Mysteries or reflecting on plaster casts in the Garden of the Fugitives, each corner of Pompeii tells a story waiting for you to uncover. So, pack your bags and prepare to be transported to a world that remains forever etched in history.