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If you’re planning a visit to Italy’s ancient ghost city, you might be wondering how to get from Sorrento to Pompeii. On paper, it’s simple. In practice? A bit of a sweaty, slightly chaotic adventure involving trains, queues, and questionable station cafés. But don’t panic – I’ve done it, survived it (barely), and I’m here to walk you through it so you can do it better.
🚉 First, Which Train Should You Take?
There are two main train options from Sorrento to Pompeii:
1. The Circumvesuviana – the public train
This is the standard commuter train and the most popular choice for tourists. It’s:
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Cheap (about €2.80 one way)
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Frequent (every 30 mins or so)
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Slightly chaotic but very local
It’s not air-conditioned (but is ok) and yes, it’s slow – but it does stop at smaller towns along the way, so it’s a nice way to see everyday life along the Bay of Naples.
Would I recommend hopping off for a wander at one of those towns? Honestly, not unless you’re staying nearby – the train can be crowded and the platforms are basic. But I went mid-morning, the train wasn’t too bad and with the windows open, it was quite pleasant, especially with the lovely views. Here is the official website of the Circumvensuviana.
2. Campania Express – the tourist train
This is the smoother, quieter option with:
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Fewer stops
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Air conditioning (bliss)
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Higher price (~€8 each way)
It’s faster and more comfortable, but not drastically so. Unless you’re travelling at a very hot or crowded time, the public train is just fine – and more budget-friendly. The official website of the Campania Express.
⏰ How Often Do Trains Run from Sorrento to Pompeii?
The Circumvesuviana trains from Sorrento to Pompeii run fairly often – roughly every 30 minutes throughout the day. Perfect if you’re not a morning person (but I am!), or if you’re trying to dodge the peak heat.
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First train from Sorrento: Around 6:00 AM
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Last train from Sorrento: Around 9:30 PM
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Return trains from Pompeii: Also run until around 9:30 PM
Always double-check the current schedule, especially on weekends or holidays – Italian transport loves a surprise change or two. You can check updates at EAV Campania’s official site.
🚄 Campania Express Notes:
This tourist-friendly train has fewer daily departures, usually 4 to 6 services per day, and only runs seasonally (spring to early autumn). So it’s ideal if you’re travelling May–October, but check ahead and plan your timing.
🏫 Sorrento Train Station: What to Expect
Sorrento’s station is located on Via Ernesto de Curtis, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre. It’s very central – handy if you’re staying nearby or coming from the marina.
But fair warning:
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Toilets – not great. Bring tissues. And hand sanitiser.
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Café – very basic. Think fridge sandwiches and sad coffee.
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Tickets – buy them in the small shop at the entrance. There’s often a long queue, so factor in an extra 15–20 minutes, especially during high season.
Oh, and keep your ticket – you’ll need it to exit at Pompeii.
🛑 Arriving in Pompeii: Prepare for the Tourist Hustle
The correct stop is Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri (don’t get off at ‘Pompei’ – that’s the town centre, not the archaeological site). Trust me, I made that mistake on the way back and had to walk… a lot. Not ideal after four hours in 34°C heat.
When you arrive, brace yourself – you’ll be approached by ticket sellers and tour guides the second you step off the train. Some are legit, some are pushy. Smile, say “no, grazie”, and walk on unless you’re genuinely interested.
Be sure to check out our essential guide on Pompeii – Top 10 Things to See in Pompeii – Italy’s Lost City Frozen in Time
🏛️ Guide or No Guide?
I went without one, thinking I’d just wander and see what caught my eye – which kind of worked, but also… didn’t. In hindsight, a bit more planning (or even a small group tour) would have helped me appreciate more of the ruins. There’s so much to see, and very little signage.
👉 Read my full Pompeii travel guide here if you want to do it smarter than I did.
☀️ Sun, Sweat and Survival Tips
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Suncream: Load it on. Then reapply. Then reapply again.
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Water: Bring a bottle – there are fountains to refill inside.
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Shade: There isn’t much. The ruins are wide open and the stone reflects heat.
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Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. The old Roman roads are beautiful but ankle-twisting.
🚉 Coming Back: Don’t Make My Mistake
After your visit, if you fancy a stroll around modern Pompeii, great! But make sure you return to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station for your journey back to Sorrento.
I mistakenly headed to Pompei town station – a 20-minute walk in full sun when I was already tired, sweaty, and covered in dust. Learn from me. Go back the way you came.
🚖 What If You Miss the Last Train?
Let’s say you’ve had a dreamy (but long) afternoon wandering Roman ruins and lose track of time – or you’re like me and accidentally go to the wrong station after already hitting your 20,000 steps.
In that case, a taxi is your backup. From Pompeii to Sorrento, a taxi will cost you around €60–€80, depending on the time of day and how charming your negotiation skills are.
It’s not cheap, but it’s better than being stranded – especially if you’re hot, tired, and have suncream in your eyes.
💡 Top tip: If you’re worried about timing, ask your accommodation to book a taxi in advance or download a local ride app like FreeNow, just in case.
🌟 Final Thoughts on How to Get from Sorrento to Pompeii
So, how to get from Sorrento to Pompeii without losing your mind (or your way)? Take the Circumvesuviana if you’re budget-conscious, the Campania Express if you want comfort. Avoid the wrong station, bring suncream, and maybe splurge on a guide.
Pompeii is unforgettable – but it’s even better when you’re not dehydrated and lost. You’re welcome.
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