Before I first went traveling in 2006, I had these expectations in my head based on nothing but my imagination and popular culture.
My trip was going to be a nonstop adventure filled with colorful and exciting people. Crazy things were going to happen to me. I’d make friends everywhere. I’d be talking to strangers on buses. Locals would invite me out for drinks. I’d be sipping a latte, strike up a conversation with my beautiful waitress, and then the next thing I’d know, we’d be at a wine bar, staring into each other’s eyes while she taught me French.
It was going to be just like those articles I’d read or travel movies I saw. One adventurous scene after the next.
Then I went overseas.
There I was in the hostel, on the road, seeing amazing attractions in historic cities. I could do whatever I wanted, when I wanted. I was finally marching to the beat of my own drum.
At first, it was exciting, as I set my daily schedule and did things by myself. I was so busy those first couple of days that I had forgotten I was alone. And that was fine — until it wasn’t.
As the days wore on and my tongue forgot what speech sounded like, that excitement dissipated. I began to crave human interaction and companionship.
Suddenly, I was alone — and in the bad way.
Aloneness had turned to loneliness.
Where were the locals who were supposed to show me around? The cool travelers I’d spend nights out with? Once I ran out of things to do, I could no longer hide my aloneness.
Sure, I could move on to another city, hoping that the magic would happen there, that it was the destination’s fault and not me.
But it was me. Life doesn’t just happen to you — you have to make it happen.
As an introvert, it isn’t natural for me to just walk up to strangers and talk to them. That was especially true way back in 2006, when I first started traveling. (Heck, it takes me a lot to overcome that today.)
But that fear was keeping me from living the dreams I had in my head. If I wanted those dreams to happen, I was going to have to make them happen.
A lot of people wonder if traveling alone means they will always be alone. How will they make friends? Is it hard?
It’s a valid concern and, for us to whom socializing doesn’t come naturally, it’s a challenge. But let me tell you: it’s a lot easier than you think.
There are a lot of people traveling solo.
People just like you.
People looking for an adventure.
People who crave interactions with others.
And that other is you.
I overcame being alone when people in my hostel in Prague started talking to me. They were the first ones to reach out, luckily. They broke the barrier I was too afraid to break myself, sitting there, waiting for “something to happen.”
But, after they broke the ice, I realized that it was actually easier and less scary than I thought. Those travelers were like me and looking for a friend.
It took the introvert in me a while to learn that truth, but once I did, I had no trouble meeting people. After those travelers said hello and showed me how easy it was, I realized I was making a mountain out of a molehill. There was nothing to be scared of. I just had to say hi.
Because we all start off in the same boat: in a foreign country without any friends, not speaking the language, and looking for people to spend time with. Once you realize that, you also realize how simple and easy it is to make friends…because everyone is just like you.
That’s the big secret. There’s nothing more to overcome being alone than to get over yourself and say “hi.”
The key is to start small and break out of your shell. Talk to the person in your dorm room. Say hello. Ask them about themselves. Trust me, they will respond. They’ll ask you about you, your home, your travel plans, and more.
From there, just do the same to other travelers you see. Look for a group leaving for the bar and ask, “Can I join you?”
Walk over to that pool table in the hostel and ask, “Who’s next?”
People will say yes. Conversation will begin. Friendships will blossom.
And thanks to the sharing economy, there are lots more ways to meet people beyond meeting them at hostels,
For example, I’m sure you have one thing you are passionate about, right? Well, people around the world have that same passion. Use a website like Meetup.com to find local groups that form around that passion. Maybe it’s swing dancing, maybe it’s pickleball or Dungeons & Dragons. Whatever it is, I’m sure there are locals who do it too. Finding local groups with a shared interest is a great way to break the ice because you already have something to talk about, something that creates an instant connection.
Moreover, you can try the website Couchsurfing. It’s not only a place to find accommodation; it also has tons of meet-ups you can attend to find other travelers and like-minded people.
I’ll be honest, at first, I found it hard to speak to others. Conversations stumbled from time to time. But you either sink or swim on the road. My options were to be alone (and risk potentially going home early) or to get over my fear, take the plunge, and talk to people.
I choose the latter.
And on the occasions I was sinking instead of swimming, other travelers came up to me and said hello. They made the first move so I didn’t have to.
Why? Because they were looking to make friends too. Like me, they understood that if they didn’t do something, they too would have been alone.
Travelers are a friendly bunch. They want to meet new people and make new friends.
And one of those friends is you.
For that reason, you are never alone on the road. There are people everywhere who will be constantly talking to you and inviting you out (especially if you’re staying in hostels).
Take it from this introvert: you’ll meet more people than you’ll know what to do with. (In fact, there will be points when you wished you had some personal “me” time.)
Eventually, you’ll realize there was never a reason to worry in the first place. And you’ll never be alone again.
How to Travel the World on $75 a Day
My New York Times best-selling book to travel will teach you how to master the art of travel so that you’ll get off save money, always find deals, and have a deeper travel experience. It’s your A to Z planning guide that the BBC called the “bible for budget travelers.”
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
I’ve lived in South Korea for over 3 years and I’m half-Korean I’ve been all over Korea and tested out some of the best tours in Seoul so you can figure out which is the best for you! Now, I don’t need to tell you that Seoul is a city that exudes energy, modernity, and centuries-old traditions, all wrapped in one. But what you might not know is how to see the city’s highlights in the most engaging way. So, grab a notepad (or just open your travel planning app), because I’ve got you covered!
This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Support my blog here
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Day Tours in Seoul for Every Kind of Traveler
Looking for the best way to maximize your time in Seoul? The city offers a range of day tours designed to suit all kinds of interests. Nature lovers can find solace on trips like the Nami Island and Gangchon Rail Bike tour, which offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and physical activity. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Korean Folk Village and Everland Day Tour, combining a deep dive into Korean culture with modern-day thrills. There is so much to see in this beautiful country.
Are you a history buff or just love dressing up? Then this day tour in Seoul is the dream! You get to visit the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace – a UNESCO world heritage site, where you can rent a Hanbok—the traditional Korean outfit—and feel like a royal from the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony; it’s like stepping into a time capsule! You’ll also get to experience Bukchon Hanok Village – one of Korean’s preserved traditional villages.
This is pretty much one of the most popular tours you can possibly grab. You can easily do this on your own as well, but it helps when you have a tour guide to give you some of the history of this palace and surrounding areas.
A visit to Seoul is incomplete without indulging in some lip-smacking Korean street food. This tour provides you with local guides and takes you through bustling markets like Myeongdong and Gwangjang, where you’ll get to try local cuisine classics like Tteokbokki, Hotteok, and Kimbap.
To be honest, this is one of my favorite day tours in Seoul. There aren’t a lot of food tours available in other parts of Korea, so this is a great stepping stone to knowing what foods to try and eat in South Korea. Korean food is more than just Korean BBQ! So go out there and try some of my favorite dishes that I grew up with.
EMBARK ON A CAPTIVATING NORYANGJIN FISH MARKET TOUR | In Seoul, where you’ll witness a bustling hub of activity and immerse yourself in the vibrant seafood culture of Korea. Explore rows of stalls brimming with fresh seafood, observe the lively auctions, and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies straight from the market’s numerous restaurants. More details here.
If you’re anything like me and love to start your day with a burst of physical activity, then I suggest the Bukhansan Mountain morning hike. You’ll head to Bukhansan National Park and hike one of Korea’s most popular mountains. Get those boots on and enjoy the panoramic views of Seoul from the top. Just don’t forget your camera!
And finally, if you’re looking to explore the posh neighborhoods of Seoul, head over to Gangnam. Yes, as in ‘Gangnam Style’. It’s a shopper’s paradise and home to some of the best cafés and boutiques Seoul has to offer. Day tours in Seoul like this are perfect for people wanting to learn more about why Gangnam became so famous.
EXPERIENCE TRADITIONAL KOREAN CULTURE: RENT A HANBOK IN SEOUL | Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Korea by renting a hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, in Seoul. Read more details here.
Ready for the scoop? Seoul is not just a bustling metropolis; it’s also the backdrop for many of your beloved K-Dramas. Picture yourself at the Namsan Tower, where countless love confessions have been made. Or imagine strolling down the stylish streets of Garosu-gil. And let’s not forget the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, which has graced the screen in historical dramas. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a history geek, these K-Drama spots in Seoul add an extra layer of magic to your Korean adventure.
Experience the city that never sleeps! From the sparkling Han River to the bustling streets of Myeongdong, the Seoul Night Tour gives you a slice of Korean nightlife. It’s the city under the stars, and you won’t want to miss a moment. This tour is a great one to also experience delicious Korean street food as many Koreans love to stay out late with a good drink and good food. We have a tradition that when we drink, we also need to eat.
Ghosts in Seoul? You bet! On this eerie walking tour, you’ll hear legends and stories of Seoul’s haunted past. Wander through dark alleys and learn about the city’s mysteries, myths, and spirits that refuse to rest. This is a great way to get spooked especially during Halloween.
Worried about finding Halal options while exploring day tours in Seoul? Worry no more! The Muslim Friendly Tour offers an itinerary that respects Islamic practices, including Halal dining options and prayer spaces. See the sights without the stress!
To be honest, trying to find food tours strictly for Muslims within Korea can be quite difficult, so to see this amazing guided tour being offered and available is amazing. I often get asked what are the options for Muslims in Korea and unfortunately, it’s quite difficult for me to navigate as someone who isn’t. So rely on the experts living in Seoul to provide that information and join this amazing Muslim Tour in Seoul!
This 5 star cooking experience is one that shouldn’t be missed! Unleash your inner chef in this interactive cooking experience! Learn how to make Korean dishes like Kimchi and Bibimbap under the guidance of local experts. It’s a deliciously fun way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. You’ll be able to experience a tour of Mangwon Market as well.
Korean food is no easy task, but this Korean cooking experience will help you learn how to make some of the best and easiest Korean dishes. You’ll be stuffed at the end of this experience and hopefully learn more about Korean food and culture.
Explore Seoul at your own pace with a biking tour that takes you along the Han River and through some of Seoul’s most scenic parks. You’ll cover more ground and see the city from a unique, up-close perspective. In this tour, you’ll be able to have lunch and experience Korean tea at a traditional tea house. You’ll get to experience iconic sights including Iwha Woman Street, Sinchon, Chungdong Church, Deoksu Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the famous Insadong markets.
Best Day Tours from Seoul
These are some of the best day trips from Seoul that you can take. The best thing about traveling within Korea is that it’s quite easily accessible.
This is one of the best Seoul day trips that offer you a breath of fresh air—literally! Imagine pedaling down old train tracks with the wind in your hair at Gangchon, surrounded by lush landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a painting. It’s probably one of the most booked tours you can get because of all the popular destinations. The garden of Morning Calm is a beautiful garden, especially during Christmas in Korea. Nami Island is an island where you can literally see all 4 seasons change. One of my favorite things to do in Korea is ride the Gangon Rail Bike, it’s a unique experience that you should try at least once.
And let’s not forget the fairy-tale charm of Nami Island, with its towering tree lanes, romantic walkways, and even ostriches prancing around. It’s as if Mother Nature herself decided to bless this tiny island. Whether you’re traveling with family, your special someone, or just your adventurous self, this combo is a serene yet exciting way to experience the Korean countryside. Nami island is where many K-Drama movies were filmed and is a popular tourist location, especially during autumn in Korea. This should be added to your Seoul itinerary.
One of the most recommended tours on GetYourGuide is the DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone) tour. It’s an eye-opener that offers a glimpse into the tension between North and South Korea. The DMZ tour includes stops at the 3rd Tunnel, the Freedom Bridge, and the Dora Observatory. A must for anyone interested in geopolitics or history!
This is one of the best things to do in Paju as it has a lot of history. The DMZ has a lot of interesting information and can provide you with some insight into exactly what has happened. Due to the war, many Koreans had escaped from North Korea and a lot of family members in Korea still have family in North Korea that they haven’t been able to see for decades. You can choose between a full day tour or half-day tour. Some tours include the JSA (joint security area) while others do not – this is one thing to consider as it’s definitely an area that shouldn’t be missed.
Suggested DMZ Tours
Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations with Booking.com to save money when you’re moving abroad!
Boulders and blooms, anyone? The Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island tour is a feast for the eyes and soul. First, you’ll explore the stunning landscapes of Pocheon Art Valley—an abandoned quarry-turned art space. Then, bask in the aromatic bliss of Herb Island, filled with themed gardens and magical evening lights. Nature and art have never blended so beautifully.
Pocheon Art Valley is a beautiful place to check out and you can easily take the tram up to the location and see these beautiful rocky features. Herb Island not too far from Pocheon Art Valley is a great place to see some lights and take photos. Many K-Dramas were filmed here because of the beautifully designed backdrops. During summer, it’s a great place to see the lavender.
From the past to the present, experience the full spectrum of Korean culture. Begin your day at the Korean Folk Village, where you can immerse yourself in the traditions and crafts of yesteryears. Then hop over to Everland, Korea’s largest theme park, for some high-adrenaline fun.
Everland is great for older kids as there aren’t as many rides available for younger children, however, there are still a few available and an amazing zoo exclosure to see the different exotic animals. You can get some delicious Korean park food, ride some large wooden rollercoasters, drink beer, and take many photos as well.
Unlock the secrets of the Joseon Dynasty with a visit to Suwon Hwaseong Folk Village. As you walk along the well-preserved Suwon Hwaseong fortress walls, you’ll find artisans demonstrating traditional Korean crafts. It’s history brought to life, making you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll also get to experience Gwangmyong cave as well as a rail bike ride.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I love Seoul – I lived in Seoul for a year, but Incheon is where my heart and home is. I lived in Incheon for 2 years and it’s where most of my family are located and I just find it to be one of my favorite places to be.
Incheon is more than just Incheon airport, there are a lot of things to do in Incheon despite what a lot of people say. You can discover the historical Chinatown, visit the fairytale-like Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village, and don’t miss out on the breathtaking views at Wolmido Island. There are a lot of areas to shop and see in Songdo as well.
Block off a day, adventurers, because Legoland Korea Resort is a colorful paradise and amusement park where every brick tells a story! Perfect for families, kids-at-heart, or anyone who ever dreamt of stepping into a life-sized Lego world. Located in Chuncheon City in Gangwon-do, a convenient distance from Seoul, this wonderland offers roller coasters, water attractions, and hands-on Lego building experiences. Dive into themed zones like Ninjago World and the magical Lego Castle. It’s more than just a theme park; it’s a creative playground that brings your favorite Lego sets to life.
You’ll want to select the Roundtrip Shuttle Bus option and departure times starts between 8-8:30 from either Hongik University Station or Myeongdong Station.
If you are traveling during Winter in Korea, you’ll definitely want to see the snow and visit this beautiful winter wonderland during this time of year. Grab your mittens and your sense of wonder, because Vivaldi Park SnowyLand and ski resort is a winter wonderland you won’t want to miss! Located just a snowball’s throw away from Seoul, this magical resort transforms into a snowy paradise during the winter months.
Whether you’re a pro on the slopes or just there for the snow angels, there’s something for everyone. Think of sledding hills, snow tunnels, and even an ice climbing wall. Plus, the atmosphere is as warm as hot cocoa with bonfires and evening light shows. So if you’re yearning for that perfect blend of exhilaration and coziness, look no further. Get ready to make your winter fantasies a frosty reality!
If you are traveling during autumn or winter, this is a great Seoul day tour to take especially for nature lovers. It’s also amazing to take outside of those time frames as well, but you’ll really get to see the beauty of Korea during those times of the year.
Your journey starts with Jeonju Hanok Village – one of the best places to visit in Korea, where traditional Korean houses, known as Hanok, line the streets like a scene from a historical drama. But keep those cameras ready, because next up is Jangtaesan—home to luscious forests and eco-friendly attractions. And for the grand finale? Daedunsan, where suspension bridges and cable cars await, offers sweeping views of the mountainous landscape. From history to heights, this tour has it all. You’re not just sightseeing; you’re soul-searching in the heart of Korea.
Thoughts on Best Day Tours in Seoul
And there you have it, my adventure-seeking pals! From historical haunts to culinary quests, from natural wonders to the magic of television brought to life, the best day tours in Seoul offer a tapestry of experiences that are as diverse as they are thrilling. Whether you’ve got a single day or a whole week to explore, these tours are your passport to a deeper understanding of this vibrant city.
If you’re a fan, as I am, of the Game of Thrones TV show, you should know that you can actually tour the Game of Thrones studio where many scenes from the show were filmed.
The Linen Mill Studios is found in Banbridge, Northern Ireland, just outside Belfast. It is where many iconic scenes from the show were filmed.
The original sets for the Winterfell Great Hall and Castle Black were constructed here and in fact the tour was built around them. In addition to the amazing film sets, you’ll also find props, costumes, artwork, weapons, prosthetics, exhibits, and lots of information on the making of the show.
There is also, of course, a large gift shop filled with Game of Thrones merchandise.
I’ve already written about visiting the main Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland as well as in Iceland, however until now I hadn’t put together a guide to the studio tour. I think it’s well worth a visit for both fans of the show, and those interested in how TV shows are put together in general.
If you are planning on visiting a number of Game of Thrones locations during your visit to Northern Ireland, then I can recommend including the studio, ideally as one of the first locations you visit.
Coming here is going to give you a huge appreciation for the amount of work that went into creating the show. There’s loads of information on display, with details on the filming locations, set design, props, costumes, and lots more!
In this guide I’m going to cover everything you need to know to visit the Game of Thrones studio tour, from how to get here, to buying tickets, to how long to stay, and more. Let’s get started.
Where is the Game of Thrones Studio Tour?
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour is located in the Linen Mill Studios. These are situated just outside the town of Banbridge in County Down, Northern Ireland.
This is about 25 miles (30 minutes drive) southeast of Belfast, or around 80 miles (80 minutes drive) north of Dublin.
Note that there is no public parking at the Linen Mill Studios. If you are making your own way to the studios by public transport or by car (more on getting here soon), you need to head to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour parking lot.
This is found at the Boulevard shopping center in Banbridge, just off the A1. Here there is free parking and a free shuttle service for ticket holders of the studio tour.
Does the Game of Thrones Studio Tour include House of the Dragon & A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms?
However, currently the Game of Thrones Studio tour focuses primarily on the Game of Thrones TV show which was filmed between 2009 (pilot episode) and 2018 and aired from 2011 to 2019 on HBO. Much of the filming took place in Northern Ireland.
Whilst some props from House of the Dragon have been put on display, that show is not being filmed at this studio or in Northern Ireland. Instead, it’s being filmed at the Warner Bros Leavesden studio in Watford, England. This is the same studio where you can take the Harry Potter Studio tour.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms was announced in 2024 and production is taking place at the Titanic Studios in Belfast, where parts of Game of Thrones was also shot. As the show has only just been announced, there’s no further information as to whether this will be included in the Game of Thrones Studio tour.
Game of Thrones Studio Tour Opening Times
The Game of Thrones Studio tour is typically open from 10am to 6.30pm. It’s open every day with some exceptions for public holidays.
How Much Does the Game of Thrones Studio Tour Cost?
The tour, which includes parking and shuttle bus from the parking area, currently costs as follows (prices as of June 2024)
£29.50 for adults (16-65)
£24 for students with student ID and seniors (66+)
£12 for teenagers (13-15)
£5 for children (5 – 12)
Free for children under age 5
There is also a family ticket which costs £67.25 and which includes two adult admissions and two teen admissions.
You can see the various ticket options and purchase tickets online here.
Game of Thrones Studio Audio Guides
There are audio guides available for the Game of Thrones Studio tour for an additional fee. These contain narration through the tour as well as additional information and details not on display.
You can either get this through the official app for Android or iOS, (must bring your own headphones to use) or you can rent an audio guide handset on site for around £5.
Currently the audio guides (both physical handsets and app) are available in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, and Mandarin Chinese.
The audio guide is not necessary for enjoying or understanding the experience as there are a lot of signs and placards you can read along the way. But they do enhance the experience and add extra information. For non-English speakers, they are likely to be very helpful in giving background information about the exhibits as the information is displayed only in English.
You can book a audio guide handset or download the app in advance, or you can wait to do so once you are at the studio. You can get the audio guide handsets from the Information Desk. So you don’t need to decide before your visit, but you do need to decide before you start the tour.
Game of Thrones Studio Afternoon Tea
If you are interested in having a Game of Thrones themed afternoon tea experience, you can pre-book an afternoon tea experience to have before or after your tour.
The afternoon tea includes themed food such as Kings Rocky Road, Hot Pie’s Sausage Rolls, Chocolate Crunch Dragon Eggs, and High Garden Sandwiches. It currently costs £30 per person.
You do need to pre-book the experience in advance of your visit, so you will want to book it along with your admission tickets.
Although the show itself was not exactly a child friendly show (with quite a lot of violence, gore, sex, and nudity and complicated plots), the studio tour is designed to be a family-friendly experience.
There are no minimum age restrictions although all children age 16 and under must be accompanied and supervised by an adult during their visit.
Buggies, pushchairs, and strollers are allowed on the studio tour.
I haven’t visited with kids but when we visited there were several families with children of all ages, and everyone seemed to be enjoying the experience.
Is the Game of Thrones Studio Tour Accessible?
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour takes place on one level, so there are no elevators or steps to content with. As such, the tour is fully wheelchair accessible.
For those arriving by car with a wheelchair, the parking situation is the same, and the shuttle bus can take one wheelchair or mobility scooter per trip.
Registered guide dogs are also welcome, identification for the dog will be required.
For other needs, you can read more details about accessibility here. That page also contains contact information where you can enquire about other accessibility needs.
How to Get to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour
There are a number of options for getting to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, which are as follows.
By Tour Bus
If you do not have your own transport, or would rather just visit the studio with round trip transport from where you are staying, then you can book a tour which includes a coach bus transfer.
Tours depart from both Belfast and Dublin. From Belfast it’s around a 30 minute coach ride, and from Dublin it’s around 90 minutes. You then will have 3 or more hours (depending on shuttle time) to visit the studio on your own.
The visit itself is self-guided and most people spend 2 to 3 hours doing the tour.
There is no direct public transport from Belfast or Dublin to the Studio Tour shuttle bus departure location.
It is possible if you are determined, to take a series of 3 buses to get from Belfast to the Boulevard shopping center, but it will take you between 90 minutes and 2 hours each way.
Dublin is a similar story, it is theoretically possible, buy you are looking at a 3 hour trip each way.
We’d suggest instead booking a tour with round-trip transport, it’s going to be a lot less hassle, much quicker, and honestly not much more expensive.
By Car
If you have your own car then you can drive to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour. Just remember that you can’t drive to Linen Mill Studios where the tour is located.
Instead, drive to the Game of Thrones Studio tour parking location in the Boulevard Shopping Center (it is well sign posted). From here it’s a 10 minute shuttle ride to the studio.
Car parking and the shuttle ride are included as part of your Game of Thrones Studio ticket price.
Bus stop at car park for transfer to studio
Purpose built check-in area for visitors waiting for shuttle
Where to Buy Game of Thrones Studio Tour Tickets
You need to buy your Game of Thrones Studio Tour tickets online in advance of your visit. Entries are timed, and there is a limit to the number of people allowed per timeslot so the attraction does not get overcrowded.
When booking, you can choose whether you just want the entry ticket, or if you want a ticket which includes round trip transport from Dublin or Belfast.
Tickets are available:
Note the official website has a fee if you need to change the date or time of your ticket. Last time we checked, GetYourGuide offered free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your visit. The price is normally the same so I’d recommend booking there if you can.
Last time we visited, we booked on GetYourGuide which is the site we normally choose to use for tickets, tours and attractions when we travel as we like that tickets are often more flexible than booking direct.
How Long Does the Game of Thrones Studio Tour take?
The Game of Thrones Studio tour is self-guided, so you can take as long or as short as you want to complete it. However, most visitors come for two to three hours.
I would make sure to book your timeslot to come at least 3 hours before closing to ensure you have enough time. If you are planning to eat lunch or do an afternoon tea experience, I would add an extra hour.
Where to Stay Near the Game of Thrones Studios
There are a number of hotel options to choose from, both near the studio, and also in major cities within easy driving distance such as Belfast and Dublin.
I’ll share some of these options below.
Hotels in Belfast
If you plan to drive to the Game of Thrones Studio tour yourself, then you will likely want to find accommodation with parking. Many hotels do offer parking but as this is a city center many locations do charge for this option.
If you are taking the coach transfer option, then you might consider staying near where the coach departs from, which is the Visit Belfast visitor information center. This is located on 9 Donegall Square N in the city center.
Belfast International Youth Hostel – If you are looking for a hostel in Belfast this is a good, well located option, around 14 minutes walk from the coach departure point. It has both shared and private dormitory rooms, an on-site cafe, linens, a communal kitchen, a breakfast menu and self-service laundry. It also has free parking.
Leonardo Hotel 4-star hotel offering good sized rooms, a breakfast buffet, bar, and restaurant. In our experience this hotel chain offers good value for money. 5 minute walk from the coach departure point. Paid parking is available nearby
Ramada – A well-rated 3-star hotel. Has an informal restaurant and bar, 24-hour front desk, and free Wifi. 14 minutes walk from the coach departure point. Paid parking is available nearby.
Bullitt Hotel – Centrally-located 4-star hotel offers a range of room options to suit most budgets. There’s also a bar, a cafe, a restaurant, a rooftop bar area, and 24-hour desk service. It is a 7 minute walk to the coach departure point for the tour. Parking is also available. We spent 4 nights here and can definitely recommend it if you are looking for a central hotel!
The Merchant Hotel – A 5-star historical luxury hotel located in a beautiful 1860 building. This hotel offers all the luxury amenities you would expect, including a restaurant, bar and lounge, spa, hot tub, and a rooftop gymnasium. 11 minutes’ walk from the coach station. Paid parking is available nearby.
For more ideas of where to stay in Belfast, see our guide to things to do in Belfast, which has everything you need to know to plan your visit here.
Hotels in Dublin
Dublin is only around an 80-minute drive from the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, meaning you can easily visit here as a half-day trip. If you have your own car, you could even add in some Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland as well.
If you are planning on taking advantage of the transport coach service from Dublin, this departs from the Busarus bus station in central Dublin. Here are some hotel options to consider.
Jacob’s Inn Hostel – a good option for those looking for a hostel experience. This hostel is just a 2 minute walk from the coach departure point, and five minutes from the lively Temple Bar area of town. Private and shared accommodation is available and there’s also a bar, restaurant, roof terrace and on-site laundry. There’s no on-site parking but paid public parking is available within a 5 minute walk.
Moxy Dublin City – this is a very well located mid-range hotel just 7 minutes walk from the coach station. We’ve stayed at a number of Moxy hotels around the world and always appreciated the fun decor and comfortable rooms. Paid parking is available nearby.
Leonardo Hotel Dublin Parnell Street – well rated excellent value mid-range central hotel, a 14-minute walk from the coach departure point. Parking is available nearby for a fee.
Maldron Hotel Parnell Square – this is a good value mid-range hotel 20 minutes walk from the coach departure point. We’ve stayed here and enjoyed it. Parking is available nearby for a fee.
Merrion Hotel – a five star luxury property which has everything you could want for a luxury stay in Dublin including a 2* Michelin restaurant, Italian marble bathrooms and a spa. On-site parking is available for a fee, and it’s a 20-minute walk to the coach station.
If you’d rather stay near the studio itself, then there are also a number of options to choose from, as follows:
Belmont House Hotel – just 5 minutes drive from the shuttle departure location for the studio tour, this 4* hotel has an on-site restaurant and free parking. It’s definitely the closest option we are aware of for the Studio tour, and the hotel the studio themselves recommend if you want to stay nearby.
Mourne Country Hotel – found 15 minutes drive south of the studio tour parking near the city of Newry, this quiet 3 star hotel offers free on-site parking, en-suite rooms, a bar and restaurant.
Is Food Available at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour?
Yes, you can purchase food and drinks at the Studio Tour. There are two options for food and drinks.
First, in the foyer of the tour building before you enter the main tour area there is the Lobby Cafe which serves hot and cold drinks as well as snacks like sausage rolls and cakes.
If you’d prefer a larger meal, or want to take a break part way through your tour, then the Studio Cafe is a good option.
Found just before the halfway point of the experience, this has a menu which includes things like burgers, breakfast items, soups and sandwiches, as well as dessert and drink options. It also has a kids menu.
There is also as mentioned the Game of Thrones afternoon tea experience, but that must be pre-booked before your visit. You can do that here.
Is there a Cloakroom at the Game of Throne Studio Tour?
Yes there is a cloakroom at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour. It’s next to the information desk right where you first enter the tour building. You can leave coats and bags here for free, which will save you carrying them through the tour.
I left my coat and small backpack here when we visited which was very convenient.
Game of Thrones Studio Tour Review and Experience
Now I’m going to talk a bit about our experience actually visiting the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, including lots of photos so you can see what it’s actually like inside and what to expect from your visit.
First, we drove from Belfast, which would have taken around half an hour except we got a flat tire on the way! That slight mishap aside, we arrived at the car parking area just after midday. The parking area and shuttle bus stop was very easy to find.
The shuttle ride took around 10 minutes, the bus was comfortable and fairly busy but everyone had a seat. The shuttle is free you just need to have a studio tour ticket.
On arrival, I dropped off my small backpack and coat at the information desk. We then got a coffee and sausage roll at the cafe before entering the experience. Entrances into the actual tour were every 15 minutes or so, and we were told we didn’t have to go in straight away if we wanted to have a coffee or something to eat first, which was nice.
We then joined the line for the actual entrance where we had the option to have our photo taken against a green screen. Photos were then made available for purchase.
The first part of the actual experience is in a movie theatre, where you take a seat and watch a ten minute video which covers the show and its production as well as a bit about the tour. This was really well done and definitely got us excited for the experience ahead.
This was the only part of the studio tour where photography and video were not allowed.
After the video was over, the cinema screen moved aside and a fog filled tunnel was revealed. This was really cool, as it felt like we were stepping into the world of Game of Thrones, specifically walking through The Wall to Wildling and White Walker territory.
Walking through the fog shrouded tunnel led us into the main self-guided tour, where the first sight to greet us were Wildings and White Walkers, as fog tendrils drifted across the floor.
From here the tour was entirely self-guided, with information panels to read and video screens to watch. A nice touch was that the voice over for the video was done by Nathalie Emmanuel, who had the roll of Missandei in the show.
The tour is set up as a journey through the world of Westeros. When we visited the order of exhibits was as follows:
Beyond the Wall
The entrance set piece had statues of the Wildings and Whitewalkers, as well as the Giant Wun Wun.
Fun fact, Wun Wun was so big they had to present him kneeling down so he would fit!
Production Design / Art Department
This part of the tour showed how the production team conceptualized the world of Westeros.
There are incredible artworks, set design concepts, drawing boards, and more which show the amount of time and effort it takes just to design a world for the screen.
Castle Black / Prop Design
The Castle Black part of the tour is home to one of the original sets that was filmed on. This section of the tour includes the Mess Hall, Lord Commanders Quarters, Jail, and Bran’s Chamber.
There’s also information here on how sets were decorated and how the props were made, with lots of props to look at including dragon eggs, books, cookware, and loads more. This area also has as a fun interactive where you can design your very own House shield!
Studio Cafe
Between Castle Black and the Winterfell Crypts is the Studio Cafe, where you can get food and drinks. We didn’t eat here but the menu looked good!
If you want more of a meal, this is definitely where I would recommend coming rather than the cafe in the lobby area.
Note that if you do miss this and decide to return after you exit, just let a team member know and they will escort you back here.
Winterfell Crypts
After the Studio Cafe you will go into the Winterfell Crypts, which is set up to look just like the crypts in the show.
The actual scenes were filmed not too far away in Shane’s Castle on Lough Neagh. There are also statues here of members of the Stark family.
Winterfell Hall
In my opinion, the Winterfell Hall is definitely one of the main attractions in the tour.
This is one of the actual sets from the show (over a hundred sets were built for each season!), which has stayed in the same location since it was built (the tour was built around it).
You can walk around the hall itself, and see key moments that were filmed here recreated with mannequins, such as the knighting of Brienne of Tarth.
Dragonstone
The next area you visit is themed around Dragonstone, the ancestral seat of House Targaryen.
Here you will see rooms set up as the impressive Dragonstone Map Room and the Dragonstone Throne. There are also some enormous dragon skull props here to admire.
Costume shop / Special Effects / Prosthetics Workshop
From Dragonstone you will enter an area which is dedicated to helping you understand how different parts of the production were put together.
The costumes in the show were truly spectacular, and there’s a whole area dedicated to some of these amazing items as well as information on how they were created.
Special effects and visual effects were also a big part of the show, and you can learn about how these were created. There’s also a fun interactive here where you can animate your own Game of Thrones character by moving around.
Finally, this area also has a lot of information on the prosthetics that were used in the show, and how these were made. There’s another interactive experience here where you can virtually apply your own prosthetic!
Hall of Faces
In the show, the hall of faces is a large, pillared hallway, with the pillars home to the faces of the dead. Which is kind of creepy.
The studio tour version looked pretty much the same, except instead of dead people’s faces, the faces of previous visitors are displayed in the pillars. And yes, I made my own face which was added to the Hall of Faces, before hurrying along to somewhere slightly less creepy.
Armory Gallery & Armory Workshop
Game of Thrones was obviously a fairly violent show, and as such it included a lot of weaponry and armor.
These two areas of the tour showcase some of the incredible weapons and armor from the show, including the massive dragon-killing Scorpion artillery weapon.
There are also lots of other well-known weapons from the show on display, including Arya’s needle.
This area also goes into detail as to how the weapons were created, the work involved, and the sheer volume of weaponry that was required for the show. Hint – it was a lot!
Finally, this area also has a really fun game where you can use your own bow and arrow to blow up hordes of the undead on screen. I really enjoyed this game, it was definitely my favourite of all the interactive experiences we tried.
Kings Landing
Towards the end of the tour you come to the Kings Landing themed area. This is actually home to a lot of different areas, so don’t worry, there’s still lots to see.
There’s Tommen’s Chamber, the Small Council Chamber, Map Courtyard, and Red Keep. I thought the Map Courtyard set piece was particularly impressive.
In this area you will also find information on the incredible musical score for the show and how that was put together.
Throne Room
The final set piece in the tour is the Throne Room in Kings Landing, where the Iron Throne sits.
This is set up as it was shown towards the end of Season 8, with much of the room in ruins and snow dusting the floor.
It’s an impressive way to end the tour.
Shop, Throne & Exit
The Throne Room is the final room of the tour. If you feel you missed something, this is the time to turn back as once you exit to the shop you can’t go back inside.
We’d already spent a couple of hours inside by this point so was ready to hit the shop. The gift shop is absolutely full of items from the show, so if there’s anything you need, from clothing to magnets to coasters, they’ve got you covered.
The shop is also where you can actually sit on the Iron Throne! Ok, so it’s a replica and not the actual one from the show. But you can sit on it in front of a green screen, and live your own fantasy of winning the Game of Thrones.
Once you’re done shopping and taking photos, you return to the lobby where you can collect any belongings, refresh with a drink or snack at the cafe, and wait for your shuttle bus or coach transfer.
There’s a helpful screen here which shows all the upcoming departure times. For the return shuttle to the parking lot there’s no specific timeslot, you just get on the next available shuttle when you are ready to leave.
And that’s it!
Overall Thoughts on our Visit to the Game of Thrones Studio
We really enjoyed our visit to the Game of Thrones Studio tour. We learned a lot about how the show was made, and we appreciated all the interactive displays and photo opportunities.
Personally, I think it is a must visit for Game of Thrones fans. However, even if you are not a fan of the show it is really interesting just in learning all the behind the scenes work that goes into make a big tv show like this.
Overall, it reminded us a lot of the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford, If you have done that and enjoyed it, you’ll probably enjoy this experience as well. The bonus is that this doesn’t get as many visitors and isn’t as crowded.
Sitting on the “Glass of Thrones” throne in Belfast
Tips for Visiting the Game of Thrones Studio
If you are planning to visit, here are some tips to help you prepare for your visit and make the visit itself go as smoothly as possible.
Decide how you are going to get there
The first thing you’ll need to do when planning your visit to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is decide how you are going to get here. Your choices are to drive and take the short shuttle from the parking lot, or to book a ticket with round-trip transport from Dublin or Belfast.
The advantage of driving is that it will let you be more flexible in your timing in terms of how long you stay at the attraction. The round-trip transport coaches obviously have to operate to a timetable, and you don’t want to miss your return coach.
That said, they do allow for enough time for people to have a great time at the studio.
Book your tickets in advance
You need to book your tickets in advance when visiting the studio as you can’t buy tickets at the studio. Tickets have a timed entry slot and you need to show up at the time on your ticket.
If you are driving, make sure you arrive in plenty of time to take the shuttle.
Also note if you are interested in the afternoon tea experience, you need to book that in advance as well.
Decide if you want the audio guide
You should decide if you want the audio guide before you visit. You can either rent this in person and use their handset or you can use your own smartphone and headphones and download the app.
Both options incur a fee, but obviously you will get more out of your visit if you opt for the audio guide. You can hire this on site.
If English is not your first language, then an audioguide will probably really help you make the most of your visit if it is available in your native language.
Personally we didn’t hire the audioguide and we felt that we still had an amazing time. However, if you have plenty of time and really want to nerd out, then it’s probably a good thing to get.
Don’t Rush
The average visitor spends between 2 hours and 3 hours on the studio tour. So I would be sure to allow yourself at least 3 hours here to fully enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. There is a lot to see, read, and do here.
In addition you may also want extra time to explore the gift shop or have a meal. If driving you need to allow for the 10-minute shuttle rides at the beginning and end.
Take Part!
The Game of Thrones Studio tour has a lot of interactive games and experiences you can take part in as you go around. From adding your face to the Hall of Faces to blowing up the undead with a bow and flaming arrow to taking photos on the Iron Throne, these are a lot of fun.
They really add to the experience in my opinion, and as most of them are included in your ticket (with the exception of the photos) you should definitely take advantage of them all!
Further Reading
We’ve been lucky enough to both explore a number of Game of Thrones locations around the world, as well as a lot of Ireland. Based on our experiences, we have a number of other posts we think you will enjoy and find useful for your trip planning.
Many of the GoT locations in Northern Ireland can be found along the Causeway Coastal Route – check out our guide to the highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route for more inspiration on what to see on the way.
Game of Thrones fans heading to Iceland will definitely want to check out our guide to Game of Thrones in Iceland. The show was also filmed in Girona, and you can see our guide to Girona here.
And that’s it for our guide to visiting the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Northern Ireland! As always, we’re happy to hear your comments and feedback. Just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
Hey, it’s been a while, hasn’t it? I don’t think I’ve written a blog post in a year or so. I hope you’re all doing well in these crazy times. As always, thanks for reading.
I have a question: What’s your favorite U.S. National Park?
Over the past two years, I’ve fallen in love with them.
Before the pandemic, I had only visited a handful of them, mostly by accident. But once the pandemic hit, and it was safe enough to road-trip, I drove all around the country visiting them.
Now I’ve seen 15 out of 63. And someday, I’d like to see them all.
First, there was Redwood National Park, with its towering trees and black-sand beaches…
Then Indiana Dunes, with its sprawling views of nuclear reactors…
Then Utah, home to some of the best national parks in the country: I visited Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion.
Hiking the Canyons at Zion. I’d love to do it again during the summer!
After Utah, I visited Mammoth Cave (Kentucky) and Hot Springs (Arkansas), on the way to Austin, which is where I live now.
Then there was Big Bend, Texas. The night sky is incredible there! You can see so many stars.
Followed by Petrified Forest in New Mexico…
And most recently, Glacier (Montana) and Grand Teton (Wyoming). Glacier National Park reminded me of Switzerland with its alpine valleys, purple wildflowers, and jagged mountains. I even saw mountain goats.
I feel so lucky that I’ve gotten to see so much of our beautiful country in the past few years.
When I was younger, I focused solely on international travel (this blog isn’t called Ashley Abroad for nothin’). But over the past two years, I’m happy to report that I’ve gained a newfound appreciation for my own backyard.
It turns out you don’t have to fly halfway around the world to go on an adventure.
Camping in Big Bend National Park with my dog, Alfie
As for my favorite? It’s a two-way tie between Redwood and Big Bend.
How many national parks have you visited?Do you have a favorite?
Subscribe here to receive new Ashley Abroad posts straight to your inbox.
Thanks for subscribing! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.
This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Please read my disclosure for more info.
There are times when I absolutely adore living in Austin: when I’m paddleboarding on Town Lake, when I’m drinking a frozen margarita at Maudie’s, when I’m hanging out in hip East Austin under string lights.
That being said, there are certain things I’m less fond of: the sweltering summers, the isolation, the lack of walkability.
I’ve lived in Austin for almost two years. Here’s what I’ve come to love and hate about it:
What I love about Austin
The People
By and large, Texans are incredibly nice people: generous, funny, and sincerely kind. When I had Covid, multiple neighbors brought me tortilla soup and walked my dog. People say hello to you on the street here, even if they don’t know you. Austin is by far the friendliest place I’ve ever lived.
The Food
Another positive – the food. Austin’s food scene is thriving: you can find excellent TexMex, Thai, Vietnamese, and of course, barbecue. Some of my favorite spots are Uchiko (sushi), Odd Duck (new American), and Loro (Asian/barbecue fusion). I’ve also grown to LOVE frozen margaritas, ha.
The Water
As a born-and-raised Michigander, I desperately need to live near water (that was one of the things I found hardest about living in Colorado). Luckily, Austin has plenty of it: Town Lake, Barton Springs, and Lake Travis, to name a few.
The Winters
The winters here are delightful – the temperature hovers around 70 degrees, and the skies are usually crisp and blue. Though we do have the odd snow day, the winter weather is very mild.
Live Music
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Austin’s internationally renowned live music scene. I love how you can walk into a random bar on a Tuesday and hear an incredible performance for the price of a Shiner Bock.
The Dog-friendliness
In Austin, you can bring your dog almost anywhere — I bring my pup almost everywhere I go. My local CVS is even dog-friendly.
What I Hate
The Crowds
Due to its huge popularity in recent years, Austin feels insanely crowded at times. Parking is hard to find, restaurants are packed, and the weekends especially can be hectic.
The High Cost of Living
Austin is very expensive. To buy a plot of land – not even a house – in my neighborhood, costs a million dollars.
Poor Walkability
Sadly, Austin is not a walkable city. Bisected by two highways, Austin is a very car-dependent city; for walkability, it ranks 42nd in the US, between Las Vegas and Pheonix. As someone who loves to walk, this is a huge downside.
The Allergies
Central Texas has been called the “Allergy Capital of the World.” There’s even a daily allergy report on the local news, where official pollen counts for ragweed, grass, and mold are measured. I never had allergies in my life until I moved here — ugh.
The Heat
The summers in Austin are brutal. Temperatures can reach 110 degrees (or higher). After this year’s scorching summer, 90 degrees bizarrely feels somewhat cool to me.
The Isolation
Austin is close to only a few cities: Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Earlier this year I made the mistake of driving to New Orleans, which took 10 hours. Sometimes I feel so envious of the East Coast – imagine driving a few hours and being able to access Boston, Philly, and NYC? Sigh.
All this to say, I’ve been pretty happy here. I’m not sure if it’s my forever home (I’m not sure I have a forever home, period), but I plan to stay at least a few more years. And enjoy many more lake days and frozen margs.
Enjoyed this post? Subscribe here!
Subscribe here to receive new Ashley Abroad posts straight to your inbox.
Thanks for subscribing! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.
This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Please read my disclosure for more info.
A photography accessory that I find useful for all sorts of things as a professional photographer is a photography bean bag. These are a versatile and highly portable product which can be used for a range of different types of photography.
I first got into using a photography bean bag when Jess and I went on safari several years ago. However, since then we have come to use a photography bean bag for a range of different types of photography, and I personally find them especially useful for wildlife photography.
Whilst I still regularly travel with and use my tripods of course, I have found that there are many times when a photography bean bag is a better option.
I’ve tested a number of photography bean bags in the real world, and I’ll share my favorites with you as well at a range of price points.
I’m also going to share with you everything you need to know about photography bean bags in general, so you can make your own informed choice. From what to look for, to when to use them, to what to fill them with, this guide should help you decide on whether or not a photography bean bag is right for you.
Let’s get started!
What Can You Use a Photography Bean Bag for?
You may be wondering what you need a photography bean bag for. Well, there are actually quite a few uses for a photography bean bag which make it a useful tool for photographers, even if, like me, you already own a tripod.
Personally I have quite a few tripods, but I also own quite a few photography bean bags. I first bought one for a safari, but since then I have found them to be useful for a range of photography.
As a result of research for this guide, I also have quite a few of them now, although most photographers will only need one or two.
Anyway, here are some situations where a photography bean bag will come in useful.
Wildlife photography
A photography bean bag can be an invaluable tool for wildlife photographers. Wildlife photography often involves sitting or lying still for prolonged periods of time with a long, heavy lens, just waiting for something to happen.
As most of us don’t have arms like Arnold Schwarzenegger, it’s not practical to hold a lens up for hours on end waiting for wildlife to appear.
With a bean bag, you can solve this problem by resting your heavy camera kit on the bean bag while you wait for the action.
Of course, you could use a tripod in this situation as well. However, a bean bag often allows you to get closer to the ground than a tripod, is more portable, and can work in a wide range of situations. It’s also very fast to set up and move, and is much more cost effective.
If you are shooting birds from a constructed wooden hide for example, a bean bag can easily be rested on the window ledge of the hide. In these situations, depending on the size of the hide, a tripod can be a bit of an encumbrance where a bean bag is not.
Overall, wildlife photography is an excellent example of when a bean bag make sense for a photographer.
Travel photography
As a travel photographer, I have long been of the opinion that a travel tripod is an essential bit of photography kit.
However, I appreciate that not everyone wants to carry even a lightweight travel tripod with them on a trip. Sometimes it might not even be possible to take a tripod, even a light one, due to luggage allowance restrictions.
So if you don’t want to, or can’t, take a tripod with you on your next trip, but still want to do photography that would benefit from a tripod such as long exposure photography, star photography, northern lights photography, wildlife photography etc., then a bean bag is a great option.
They pack light, especially if you buy the filling in destination, are versatile, and will let you get a range of photos that you wouldn’t have been able to achieve otherwise. In travel photography, a bean bag is the next best thing to a tripod.
Safari / Vehicle-Based Photography
If you are doing any photography from a vehicle, then a bean bag can make a big difference to your experience.
The classic example of shooting from a vehicle is of course when you are taking photos on safari. However, there are other situations when you might want to take pictures from a vehicle, from visiting a state or national park through to visiting a drive through zoo.
Generally, if you are shooting from a vehicle, even a larger safari type vehicle where you can stand up and move around a bit, a tripod or even a monopod isn’t going to be practical. The legs get in the way, you can’t move them quickly enough to respond to wildlife movements, they won’t let you shoot from every angle, and you’ll just end up frustrated.
A bean bag solves this problem. You can place it almost anywhere, from a windowsill to the edge of a pop-top in a safari vehicle. They are relatively light and portable, and you can use them to support even larger lenses.
Overall, if you are planning a safari or any type of photography that might involve a vehicle, I think a bean bag is an essential addition to your kit.
Tripod Weight
A bean bag can also be really helpful for weighting down a tripod. Many tripods have a system underneath where you can hang ballast to improve stability.
If you have a photography bean bag which has a carry loop or d-ring, and you fill it with heavier fill like sand, beans or Poly Beads, then it can double up as useful ballast for your tripod as well.
What is the Best Filling for a Photography Bean Bag?
The great thing about a photography bean bag is that, despite the name, you can actually fill it with all sorts of things. In fact, many bean bags ship empty so you can make your own decision as to what to fill it with.
The different filling options allow you to choose how heavy or light you want your bean bag to be. A heavier bean bag will generally provide more stability whilst a lighter bean bag is going to be more portable. So you have to choose the option that works best for you.
Here are some filling options to consider and my thoughts on each. These are approximately ordered from lighter to heavier options.
Polystyrene balls. These are a very light and cheap bean bag fill option. Their main advantage is the low weight, although they are probably a bit too light. They can also get everywhere if you are not careful!
Cushion stuffing. You might consider filling your bean bag with the same sort of stuff you would fill a cushion with. This can work, and will be quite light, but can be a little bit too soft and squishy to properly support a camera and lens.
Buckwheat hulls. These are a natural byproduct of buckwheat processing. They are popular as use for filling pillows, and make an excellent photography bean bag fill. They are relatively light but are also quite hard. They are also fairly small, which means the bag will be quite flexible in shape. The main downside is that larger lenses (>200mm) can crush them over time, reducing their usefulness.
Dried seeds (sunflower, bird seed etc.). Dried seeds are a popular choice as a bean bag fill as they are widely available. They are going to be heavier than the previous options on this list, offering a more stable platform. The main downside is that edible seeds can attract wildlife, and being organic they won’t last forever. Seeds also contain oils which can release into your bean bag case.
Dried beans or grains (rice, kidney beans, red beans, black beans etc.). These are similar in weight, performance and availability to dried seeds. I would say they are a slightly better option as they have less oils and will likely last longer. If you are traveling, they are widely available for purchase, making them a great option.
Poly Beads – If you want a heavier, more durable option, then Poly Beads are the way to go. These are made from a hard plastic, so won’t break down, and are generally around five times heavier compared to something like Buckwheat
There are of course lots of other options to choose from. Some people use cat litter or sand to fill their bean bags. But I would say for most people, Buckwheat hulls, dried beans or poly beads are probably going to be the best options.
One tip, if you are going to be using organic materials which might stain or be hard to remove from the bag, is to put the fill in one or more heavy duty Ziploc plastic bags first. Then put those bags full of the fill inside the bean bag. This will protect the bag and the fill and make it easier to remove and clean if necessary.
Some options for filling a photography bean bag. From left to right: black beans, poly beads, buckwheat hulls.
What to Look for in a Photography Bean Bag
I’m now going to cover some of the different features that a photography bean bag can come with. This will help you decide which bean bag is going to be right for your needs.
Bean Bag Shape
The first decision to make is what shape photography bean bag you want. The main bean bag shapes are as follows.
Flat – a flat beanbag basically looks like a pillow. It offers versatile placement, but might not mold as well around objects such as a windowsill as some of the other shapes
Double-cushion – a double cushion bean-bag is basically two flat bean bags sewn together in the middle. This offers good versatility, as you can use it like a flat bean bag, balancing the camera on the top, or you can use it on its side, with the camera nestled between the two cushions
Saddle bag – this bean bag looks like a lower-case letter “n”, or a “u”, depending which way up you have it. You can use it either way up. In the “n” shape you can place each of the legs over a windowsill or other edge for stability. In the “u” shape, you can put the camera lens between the two legs and rest the flat part on the ground.
Each bean bag shape offers advantages and disadvantages. Personally I like the saddle bag shape as it offers a lot of versatility for a range of situations. However, the flat cushion shape also works well in specific situations, such as when shooting on the ground.
Bean Bag Material
Bean bags can be made out of a range of materials which affect the durability and weight of the product.
Different parts of the bean bag may also be made out of different types of material. For example, parts of it may be made out of a water resistant material or a material that features a grippy surface.
Common materials for bean bags to be made from include Cordura, Nylon and Canvas. The main thing is to ensure the materials used offer good quality with high quality stitching. A rubberized grippy base is also a good feature to look for as it offers both waterproofing and additional stability.
How to Fill Bean Bag
One of the good things about most photography bean bags is that you can remove and change the fill. So, if you are planning a trip where packing weight is a consideration, then you will likely want to empty your bean bag before your trip and fill it in destination.
Different bean bags offer different options for how you actually open them up to access the interior where the filling resides. These can include zippered openings and velcro openings.
Personally, I would recommend a high quality zippered opening. Velcro is not as good as it can come open in the middle of a shoot or in your bag with messy consequences.
Some bean bags offer multiple zippered openings, which can make distributing the fill to different parts of the bean bag easier. With saddlebag designs for example, the zip is often on the leg, so having two zippered openings can be particularly helpful to ensure both legs get an even amount of fill.
Size of Bean Bag
When shopping for a bean bag, you will want to decide on how big you want the bean bag to be. This will affect a few things.
First, a larger bean bag will be able to accommodate a larger lens. If you have a particularly large lens (300mm and up on a full frame camera), you will want to be sure the bean bag is going to be large enough to fully cushion and support it.
Of course, a large bean bag will require more filling, and the final filled weight of the bag will also be heavier (although this is also obviously affected by what you fill it with).
Bean Bag Color
The color of your bean bag is also something to consider. Most bean bags come in wildlife friendly colors, including browns, khakis, greens and black. Some also have a camo style print.
Most colors will work for most uses. However, for specific photography situations, some colors will be better than others. For example, if you are going on safari it is often recommended to avoid colors like black or blue as these can attract tsetse flies. So in this situation, a khaki, green, camo, or sandy color would be good.
If you are planning on using your bean bag for wildlife photography in general, and will be trying to blend in with your surroundings, then a camo style bean bag might be worth considering.
Additional Features
Some manufacturers like to differentiate their bean bags by offering additional features. If you are comparing two similarly priced bean bags and one has extra features that you find useful, then that one might be a better fit for you.
Features I have seen include zippered pockets to hold accessories, grippy bases, straps for carrying, the ability to convert between a pillow shape and a saddle shape, and even tripod thread for mounting tripod heads or gimbals.
The Best Photography Bean Bags
I’m now going to go through a number of photography bean bags of different styles and at different price points. I have personally tried out the majority of these bean bags myself.
If I haven’t tried a specific model, then I have tried another version from the same brand, and would expect the experience to be similar.
Many brands have multiple bean bag options, with the differentiators being the size of the bean bag and the lenses they can support. Some brands also offer multiple bean bag styles.
These bean bags are ordered approximately by price from lower to higher, but prices always vary so do click through the check the latest price for each model when comparing.
The very first camera bean bag I bought was this budget option called the Grippa Bean Bag.
It is essentially two square bean bags sewn together with an interior join so beans can flow from one side to the other.
Despite its budget nature, it actually worked very well on my safari. When I purchased it prior to a safari trip it came prefilled with very light polystyrene beads, which made it light (if bulky) to travel with. The interior is accessed with a zip which means you can empty it and refill it, and it can also be purchased empty.
Honestly, I’d probably recommend purchasing it empty and filling it with something other than the polystyrene beads. They are a little light, and they also make a bit of noise when you use the bag, which might scare wildlife away.
That said, I had a good experience using this bean bag on safari in East Africa, and if you are in the UK looking for a more budget oriented option, it’s definitely one to consider.
Dimensions: 21.6 x 21.2 x 20.5 cm / 8.5 x 8.3 x 8.1 inches Item Weight: 0.22kg /7.76oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon UK here.
Kinesis makes a range of photography bean bags with a primary focus on bean bags that work well for safari. Of course, their bean bags also work well for all kinds of other uses, but their original mission was to create bean bags specifically for the needs of photographers on safari. Their bags are all made in the USA.
Safari photography often has you taking photos from a vehicle, either through a side window or through a pop-up roof viewing area. You tend to have to move quickly and adjust your position, and there tend to be all sorts of odd bits of metal on a safari truck to work around.
As such, the Kinesis SafariSacks are designed to be flexible and tough to stand up to the rigors of being bumped around and placed over all sorts of shapes.
The Kinesis SafariSack 1.4 is currently their smallest model, designed for lenses up to 200mm in length. It has zippered access to the fill area, and a rubberized base which has grippy sections at each end of the bag.
The bag is made of 400-denier and 420-denier Diamond Ripstop nylon fabrics, and the base is SlipNot, a rubberize-type fabric.
This SafariSack is designed to be used in flat mode. On safari this is generally best for use on top of a vehicle. It also has a quick release strap which can be used to secure the bag, for example to a roof mounted rack, offering additional peace of mind. It can also be used as a carry strap, and extended with an optional accessory for use as a shoulder strap.
Personally, I’d recommend purchasing the version which comes with the optional shoulder strap as it makes it easier to carry.
Kinesis provides estimated weights for the bag when it is filled with different materials. With Buckwheat the weight would be 240g / 8.5oz. With Polybeads, it would be 910g / 2lbs. You can normally purchase the bag empty or with either buckwheat or polybeads supplied.
Personally, I would recommend buying the variant with the buckwheat fill and the Y208 extension strap.
I have a larger Kinesis SafariSack and the build quality of their products is excellent.
Dimensions: 20 x 28 cm (7.9 x 11″) Item Weight: 0.08kg / 2.9oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and B&H Photo here.
LensCoat are a US based company who have been creating products aimed at wildlife photographers for many years. The company was started by wildlife photographer Scott Elowitz, and their products are all made in the USA.
LensCoat are particularly well known for their LensCoat lens covers. This is a neoprene wrap which goes around a lens, offering thermal protection, waterproofing, and camouflage.
However, they also make a range of photography bean bags.
The LensCoat LensSack Jr. is a flat style bean bag although depending on how you fill it you can shape it in a “v” shape if you prefer. It has a non-slip grippy bottom along the full base of the bean bag and the bag itself is constructed from water-resistant heavy-duty Cordura.
It has a locking zipper for fill compartment access as well as a carry-strap and 4 d-ring securing points.
Compared to the Safari Sack 1.4 this is a slightly larger bean bag which can handle larger lenses, I’d estimate up to 400mm would work fine on this bean bag. It also has the advantage of offering grip along the entire base of the bean bag, which is a nice feature.
If you have a bigger lens or would prefer an even larger flat style bean bag from LensSack, check out the LensCoat LensSack which offers the same features but in a larger size.
I own a saddle bag shaped LensCoat bean bag and have found the product to be well made and durable.
Dimensions: 38 x 20 cm (19.5 x 11.5″) Item Weight: 0.08kg / 2.9oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and B&H Photo here.
The Grizzly Camera bean bag is a saddlebag style bean bag which offers a no-frills but fairly well-made bean bag product at a good price. I bought this to compare it to some of the more expensive options on the market.
The bag itself is made from 1000 Denier Cordura Nylon which, looks and feels (to my touch) hard wearing. It’s relatively large, able to work with lenses up to 600mm comfortably I would say.
The saddle area which would normally sit over the windowsill, fence post or other support is made from a rubberized coating for waterproofing and durability. This base is a little smooth though, especially compared to the Kinesis or LensCoat products.
It has a single high quality YKK zipper, which is functional if not as handy as having two zippers. There’s also a carry handle.
Overall, for the price, this is a good saddlebag option. You don’t get the extra features and more premium construction of higher end bags but it is certainly good enough for regular use.
Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 20 cm (10 x 8 x 8″) Item Weight: 0.15kg / 5.6oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and Etsy here.
The Kinesis SafariSack is one of my personal favorite photography bean bags that I’ve used, primarily because of its versatility.
It is essentially a larger version of the SafariSack 1.4, which works with longer lenses up to 800mm. However, it does have some key added features that make it worth the upgrade beyond larger lens capacity, even for smaller lenses.
The main differentiating feature it has is that it’s designed to be used as both a flat bag and also in a more saddlebag shape. To achieve the saddlebag shape, you just tighten the two straps underneath the bag which pull the ends together to form the “legs” of the saddle.
It is designed with a gusset in the middle of the bag so that when in saddlebag mode this area has more fill and thus provides more support. That said, Kinesis do recommend filling the bag slightly less than full if planning on using it in saddlebag mode.
Whilst it’s obviously not quite as firm of a shape as a purpose-built saddlebag, I find that it works well and molds well to different surface shapes.
Like the 1.4 model, the 4.2 also has a rubberized bottom, and a carry handle which can be extended into a shoulder strap with the optional Y208 extension strap. I would definitely recommend purchasing the version with the carry strap as it makes it a lot easier to carry around. The carry handle also has d-ring attachments.
The bag is made of 400-denier and 420-denier Diamond Ripstop nylon fabrics, and the base is SlipNot, a rubberized-type fabric.
Parts of this base at each end of the bag have extra grip, as you can see in the below image, which helps especially when using the bag in a more saddlebag configuration for grip.
Another thing I like about all the Kinesis SafariSacks is that the fill zipper stops about half an inch from the edge of the bag. This means there is room for the zipper pull to fold over flat up to the edge of the bag. It is then secured under the zipper flap.
This means it’s a lot easier to know when it is properly closed. The other bean bags I’ve used require you to try and push the zipped closed right up to the edge of the bag. This can make it hard to know if it’s properly closed.
A properly closed zipper on a bean bag is really important as otherwise your fill can start to pour out, which is not a good situation to be in.
Kinesis provides estimated weights for the bag when it is filled with different materials. With Buckwheat the weight would be 0.66kg / 1lb 7oz. With Polybeads, it would be 2.5kg / 5lbs 8oz.
You can normally purchase the bag empty or with either buckwheat or polybeads supplied, and with or without the carry strap. I would recommend the version with the Y208 extension strap which will make it easier to secure and carry.
Then, I’d suggest the version with buckwheat if you have a lens up to around 200mm, or plan to travel with it. If weight is not an issue and you have a larger lens, then the Poly Bead option is the best option.
Dimensions: 24 x 40 cm (15.7 x 9.4″) Item Weight: 0.144kg / 5oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and B&H Photo here.
The LensCoat LensSack Pro Jr. is my favourite saddlebag style “u” shaped photography bean bag that I own. It is really well made and has some unique features that I’ve not seen in other photography bean bags.
First, the basics. It’s made of heavy-duty water resistant Cordura, with a rubberized base and reinforced stitched seams. The base (the inside of the “u”) offers grip across its whole surface, which is a really nice feature for ensuring stability and grip.
The LensSack Pro Jr can support lenses up to 500mm (for larger lenses look at the LensCoat LensSack Pro). It has two YKK locking zippers, one on each leg, making it easy to fill and empty.
In terms of extra features, you get two adjustable quick release straps at the end of each leg which can be used for carrying and securing the LensSack. There is also a M.O.L.L.E webbing system on the outside of each leg which you can attach pouches and accessories to.
Each leg also has a storage compartment which is secured by Velcro, and is suitable for carrying things like spare batteries, memory cards and so-on.
The real stand out feature though is that it comes with a removable lightweight aircraft grade aluminum plate with a standard 3/8″-16 mounting screw. This is the standard size for a gimbal or ball head, meaning you can actually attach these accessories directly to the bag if you want.
Now, the price of this bag is certainly higher than some of the other options on the list, but I think the products features and premium quality more than justify that price point. It’s also made in the USA.
If you are looking for a high quality, well-made saddle bag style photography bean bag, I would say either the LensCoat LensSack Pro Jr. or Pro (for larger lenses up to 800mm) should definitely be on your short list.
LensCoat provides an estimated weight when filled with sunflower seeds of 2.5kg (5lb 8oz), without the mounting plate.
Dimensions: 17.7 x 16.5 x 19.1 cm (7 x 6.5 x 7.5 “) Item Weight: 0.26kg / 9oz (no fill). Add 0.12kg (4.2oz) if using mounting plate Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and B&H Photo here.
I wanted to include the Kinesis Safari Sack 7.3 in this list as it’s a true saddleback “u” shaped bag from Kinesis. It’s also, at time of writing, the largest photography bean bag that Kinesis make, and the largest in our list.
So, if you need a truly huge photography bean bag for a really big lens (think 600mm and up), then this is a good option. I think for most people this might be just a bit much, but I felt it was worth including so you can see all the options.
In terms of features, you get all the quality you would expect from Kinesis.
To start with, it’s made from the same materials as their other bags, which is a combination of 400-denier and 420-denier Diamond Ripstop nylon fabrics. The base (internal part of the “u”) is coated with SlipNot, a rubber-like fabric, which offers grip. Note the grip is across the whole part of the rubberized area.
Access to the interior is via only one zip, but as the zip is in the saddle part of the bag rather than in the legs, it does make distributing the fill evenly fairly easy.
In terms of additional features, there’s M.O.L.L.E style webbing slots on both sides of the bag for attaching accessories, there are a pair of carry straps sewn in to the top of the bag and there are also straps on the “feet” for easy pick up when it’s inverted.
Overall, if you need a really big photography bean bag I would say it’s a choice between this one and the LensCoat LensSack Pro. They are both great products, you would just need to decide which fits your needs and budget best.
Kinesis suggest using this bean bag with either Poly Beads, or the Git-Lite product. The latter is similar to Poly Beads but is roughly half the weight.
As this bag is designed for larger lenses, a fill like buckwheat is likely to get crushed over time.
With Poly Beads, the total weight of this bag is 9lbs 30z / 4.24kg. With Git-Lite, you’re looking at 4lbs 7oz / 2kg.
Dimensions: 20 x 40 x 22 cm (7.8 x 15.75 x 8.7 “) Item Weight: 0.2kg / 7oz (no fill) Purchase: Check price on Amazon here and B&H Photo here.
Tips for Using a Photography Bean Bag
Now that you have chosen your photography bean bag, I wanted to share a few tips to get the most out of it, based on my experiences.
Invert your tripod collar. If you have a camera with a tripod collar, rotate this so it’s at the top of the camera rather than the bottom, as otherwise it’s going to get in the way of the camera resting fully on the bean bag. Of course, if you are using a product like the LensSack Pro Jr with the ball head, you might be using the tripod collar, so ignore this tip!
Fill you photography bag in destination. If you are traveling, you can save your luggage space by filling the bag in destination rather than travelling with an already full bag
Choose your filling wisely and make sure you have enough of it as your bag will likely hold more than you think. There are multiple options for a filling. For organic materials, I find buckwheat hulls, sunflower seeds, or larger dried beans works well. I would avoid rice as the shape of rice means that is can compact a bit too much and means you can lose some of the flexible shape benefits of a bean bag. Polystyrene balls can be a good option, especially if you need something very lightweight, but they can be too light for some situations, challenging to work with to fill, not to mention environmentally unfriendly. Poly plastic beads are probably best option if you want something heavy, durable, and washable.
If you are using an organic product to fill your bean bag you will want to take care that it doesn’t get wet, and be aware that it might need to be replaced from time to time. A good idea is to put the filling into a Ziploc bag and sealing that, then putting the sealed Ziploc bag into your bean bag. Depending on the shape of the bean bag and the size of the access hole, you may need to use multiple bags.
When it comes to filling your bean bag, patience is the key. Make sure the zippered part is as high as possible relative to the rest of the bag, and pour the filling in carefully and slowly. You don’t want to make a mess everywhere and have to waste time trying to collect errant bits of fill!
Keep your bag secure. If you are planning to use this in vehicles, boats, tree limps, on railings, near cliffs, etc. then you want to make sure you secure you bag so it doesn’t accidentally fall or fly away. You can attach it to an object such as a vehicle hook, roof railing, or fence, secure it to your camera (if your camera is secured to you), or you can secure it around your neck. Most safari bags come with a strap of some kind but if yours don’t you can use something like this photography bag strap.
Further Reading
That’s it for my guide to the best bean bag for photography. If you found this useful, you might enjoy some of my other photography content. Here are some articles to get you started.
I have a detailed guide full of safari photography tips to help you get great photos on safari whatever your camera is
Once you’ve taken all your photos you don’t want to lose them! Read our guide to backing up your photos for an idea of how to keep them all safe.
Wildlife photography can often result in noisy images. See my guide to the best noise reduction software for some ideas on how to get the best out of your photos even when they might be a bit noisy
Knowing how to compose a great photo is a key photography skill. See our guide to composition in photography for lots of tips on this subject
We have a guide to what depth of field is and when you would want to use it.
We are big fans of getting the most out of your digital photo files, and do to that you will need to shoot in RAW. See our guide to RAW in photography to understand what RAW is, and why you should switch to RAW as soon as you can if your camera supports it.
If you found this post helpful, and you want to improve your photography overall, you might want to check out my online travel photography course.
Since launching the course in 2016, I’ve already helped over 2,000 students learn how to take better photos. The course covers pretty much everything you need to know, from the basics of how a camera works, through to composition, light, and photo editing.
It also covers more advanced topics, including astrophotography, long exposure photography, flash photography, and HDR photography.
You get feedback from me as you progress, access to webinars, interviews and videos, as well as exclusive membership of a Facebook group where you can get feedback on your work and take part in regular challenges.
It’s available for an amazing one-off price for lifetime access, and I think you should check it out. Which you can do by clicking here.
And that’s it! I’d love to hear about your thoughts on bean bags for photography, and am happy to answer any questions you have. Just pop them in the comments below and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
Hey guys, it’s been a while! Working in consulting has taken a toll on my blogging — when I have free time, the last thing I want to do is stare at a screen.
But I wanted to pop in to share some reading recommendations. I read 32 books in 2022 which is about average for me — I usually read 30-35 books a year. Which is perfectly fine with me. I read for pleasure, and I’m not a fan of reading challenges.
In 2022, I read way more fiction than usual, which is something I want to continue this year as well.
Without further ado, here are my favorite reads of 2022:
Eleanor Oliphant is quirky, reclusive, and painfully socially awkward. But despite her social difficulties, what she craves above all else is connection with other people.
I loved this book. At turns heartbreaking and laugh-out-loud funny, I enjoyed every moment I spent with Eleanor, who is one of the most memorable and likable characters I’ve come across in years.
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry follows the story of widower, curmudgeon bookstore owner, A.J. Fikry, as he grapples with grief and, in an unexpected twist of fate, single fatherhood. At its heart, this novel is an ode to books and book lovers.
This book is my first read by Gabrielle Zevin but it won’t be my last. Zevin also wrote Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, which is currently sitting on my shelf. I’m excited to delve into it soon.
As a lifelong tennis player, I really enjoyed Carrie Soto is Back. Carrie Soto is a world-famous tennis champion in her late thirties. But six years after her retirement, she watches her world record be taken to her at the US Open, and vows to get it back.
Though Carrie Soto Back obviously centers around tennis, you don’t have to be a tennis player in order to appreciate this: it also features a complicated father-daughter relationship, which I loved, as well as a love story.
If you haven’t read Taylor Jenkins Reid yet, I highly recommend her work: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and Daisy Jones and the Six are fun and easy reads. (I still need to read Malibu Rising!)
I binged this at my cottage over the span of a delicious summer weekend, and it was truly the perfect summer read. Set in Cape Cod, The Paper Palace takes place over a single summer day in which Elle, 50, must confront her past and all its secrets. Truly a page-turner, I was dying to find out what happened between Elle and her childhood love, Jonas, all those years ago.
The only downside – the book features a chilling child abuse scene that I wish had been omitted.
So this is a bit out of left field, but in 2022, I finally read Beowulf. As a diehard Tolkien fan, I had meant to read this Beowulf for years, as it greatly influenced The Lord of the Rings.
Beowulf is an epic poem that tells the story of Beowulf, a Scandinavian hero who rids the kingdom of Grendel, a monster that has been terrorizing the land for 50 years.
As the book was written in Old English, I obviously read a translation, and I’m so glad I read Seamus Heaney’s translation. As a Nobel-prize-winning poet, Heaney brought Beowulf to life in such a powerful and never-boring way.
The Simple Pathto Wealth by J.L. Collins (2016)
In 2022, I had a goal to learn more about personal finance and investing. I read many personal finance books: The psychology of Money, Total money makeover, I will make you rich, and more. But the best of the lot was The Simple Path to Wealth.
The Simple Path to Wealth is a personal finance book for people who have no interest in learning about finance and who want to keep investing simple. Due to its simplicity and brevity, this is the best personal finance book I’ve ever read.
In 2022, I went on a major Philippa Gregory kick, reading seven of her books. The Kingmaker’s Daughter is my favorite of hers I’ve read so far.
The Kingmaker’s Daughter follows the story of Anne Neville, one-time Queen of England and wife of the infamous Richard III. Anne began her life as the daughter of Richard Neville, so-called “the kingmaker” for his ability to make (and unmake English) kings.
I love Philippa Gregory’s books because they focus on women in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. So often, historical texts and novels gloss over women and their accomplishments during these time periods. But clearly, as in the case of Anne, women of this time period deserve a closer look.
What was your favorite book of 2022?
Enjoyed this post? Subscribe here!
Subscribe here to receive new Ashley Abroad posts straight to your inbox.
Thanks for subscribing! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.
This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). Please read my disclosure for more info.
It’s that magical time of year again when the air turns crisp, leaves paint the landscapes with vibrant hues, and a cozy feeling settles in. As summer in Germany comes to an end, we come into my favorite season which is autumn in Germany. It’s the best time to visit Germany because the weather is nice and cool, there are a lot of events and things going on and something about this time of the year just seems so magical, maybe it’s my obsession with Harry Potter haha.
This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Support my blog here
Autumn in Germany: Weather and Event Guide
Germany has 4 distinct seasons. As we transition from the warmth of summer months to the cool embrace of autumn, let’s dive into the mesmerizing changes each month brings to Germany. Here are some important things to consider about the weather in Germany during Autumn.
Autumn in Germany Month-by-Month Breakdown – Autumn Months in Germany
Autumn Weather in Germany in September
As we enter Autumn in Germany, September arrives with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 23°C) on some occasions in the beginning of the month hotter around 85°F or 29°C. It’s the perfect time for scenic hikes and strolls through quaint villages. There are still warm days that linger from summer, but overall it gets quite cool in the evenings and mornings.
September is the season of Oktoberfest (despite it saying October, it takes place mainly in September and ends in early October), where Munich comes alive with lively celebrations and frothy mugs of beer. The long days of summer are now quite short as we transition into fall during late September.
Autumn Weather in Germany in October
The heart of autumn in Germany beats strong in October with temperatures dropping to 46°F to 57°F (8°C to 14°C). You’ll get to experience beautiful weather during this time of the year. The beginning of October is when fall is in full swing. Our favorite festival Oktoberfest ends as we move into colder temperatures. Leaves will start to change in color and you’ll experience some of the beautiful foliage Germany has to offer.
Autumn Weather in Germany in November
As November sweeps in, the temperatures continue to cool, ranging from 39°F to 48°F (4°C to 9°C). The landscapes transform into a mosaic of fiery reds and deep oranges, making it the ideal time for leisurely walks and exploration. The end of this month is when the Christmas markets in Germany start and it’s time to be sipping on a warm cup of Glühwein.
What to Pack for Germany in Autumn
Wondering what to pack for your autumn in Germany escapades? Think layers! A mix of sweaters, jackets, scarves, and comfy boots will keep you cozy as you navigate the changing weather. Don’t forget an umbrella for rainy days and a pair of sunglasses – you never know when the sun might peek through the clouds. You’ll want a jacket or thick sweater for the brisk mornings and evenings.
Some things you may want to pack for Germany in Autumn are:
T-shirts
Long sleeve tops
Light Jacket
Dresses
Cardigans
Sweaters
Jeans
Leggings
Boots or sneakers
German weather can be quite unpredictable, so they don’t believe in bad weather, they only believe in bad gear. There is a saying “you aren’t made of sugar” on days that it rains.
Autumn Festivals in Germany for 2023
Germany knows how to celebrate, and the fall season is no exception! There are a lot of things to celebrate during fall in Germany, from wine festivals to beer festivals, these are some of the most popular festivals to visit during autumn. Whether you are taking a road trip in Germany or traveling by train, make sure to add these vibrant festivals to your German itinerary.
Winefest in Bernkastel Kues
Imagine a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Moselle River and about an hour away from Burg Eltz, filled with vineyards as far as the eye can see. This is where the Winefest in Bernkastel Kues takes center stage. As autumn’s golden light bathes the landscape, wine enthusiasts gather to celebrate the region’s finest offerings. Glasses clink, laughter fills the air, and the aroma of exquisite wines mingles with the gentle breeze, creating an ambiance of pure delight.
This area is mainly known for its riesling wine which you’ll be able to taste at every vendor that happens to be in the area. As the festival continues throughout the day, you’ll experience live bands, music, and activities. At the end of the night, you’ll be able to see the loud fireworks shoot from the bridge into the dark sky.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a pumpkin wonderland, the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival is the largest pumpkin festival that brings that dream to life. In a world where pumpkins become art, intricate carvings, and whimsical displays transform the gardens into a fairytale realm. As the sun sets and the pumpkins glow with a warm radiance, visitors young and old find themselves immersed in a magical pumpkin-themed adventure.
They have a variety of different events that happen from August until November, like pumpkin carving, pumpkin smashing, and more. Be sure to read more in this in-depth guide to the Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival.
Dates: August 25 – December 3
Wurstmarkt
Autumn in Germany | Wurstfest in Bad Durkheim
A journey into tradition awaits at the Wurstmarkt, one of the oldest wine festivals in the world. Nestled in the charming town of Bad Dürkheim, this festival seamlessly blends local wines, delicious sausages, and a lively atmosphere. Amidst the cheerful clinking of glasses, merry-go-rounds, and the aroma of savory treats, visitors partake in an age-old celebration of regional culture and culinary delights. This is where you’ll get to experience German culture in this exciting event.
The grandest of all German festivals, Oktoberfest needs no introduction. Munich transforms into a lively carnival, where Bavarian traditions and hearty cheers echo through the air. Lederhosen and dirndls become the attire of choice as locals and visitors raise their steins high in a beer tent, toasting to a jovial atmosphere filled with live music, dance, and, of course, a bottomless flow of beer. This is the largest folk festival or volk festival in Germany which is a colorful celebration of Bavarian culture. Many men are dressed in traditional leather pants while women are dressed in their trachen or traditional dirndls.
It’s one of my favorite events to visit every year, however, it’s not the only beer festival that happens during this time of the year. This is where you will meet a variety of people, eat Bavarian food, spend time at the carnival and so much more.
Dates: September 16 – October 3
Herbstfest in Heidelberg
Autumn in Germany | Heidelberg, Germany
Nestled against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage, the Herbstfest in Heidelberg is a celebration of autumn’s charm and the city’s rich history. From vibrant markets showcasing local crafts to the aroma of warm pretzels wafting through the air, this festival invites all to relish in the beauty of the season while immersing themselves in the culture of Heidelberg.
There is more to do in Heidelberg than just this festival, so you should definitely consider all of the other things that Heidelberg has to offer from Heidelberg Castle to Heidelberg’s Christmas Markets, there are a lot of things to do in Heidelberg.
Dates: September 30 – October 1
Frankfurt Book Fair
For literary enthusiasts, the Frankfurt Book Fair is a mecca of ideas, creativity, and inspiration. Authors, publishers, and book lovers from around the world gather to explore the latest literary works, engage in discussions, and celebrate the written word. As the leaves fall outside, the pages of countless stories come to life within the halls of this celebrated fair.
Dates: October 18 – 22
Cannstatted Volkfest – Second Largest Beer Festival in Stuttgart
Stuttgart boasts its own version of the iconic Oktoberfest, the Cannstatter Volksfest. This festival captures the essence of Bavarian revelry with a distinct Swabian twist. Traditional costumes, fairground attractions, and culinary delights set the stage for a jovial gathering that pays homage to both local heritage and the spirit of celebration. It is the perfect event for a beer lover.
Dates: September 22 – October 8
Beethoven Festival
In a land rich with musical heritage, the Beethoven Festival is a harmonious celebration of one of the greatest composers of all time. As autumn leaves rustle, symphonies and melodies fill the air in cities like Bonn and beyond. The sounds of Beethoven’s masterpieces resonate through concert halls, creating an immersive experience that pays homage to the genius and his timeless compositions.
Dates: August 31 – September 24, Thursday – Sunday
Erntedankfest
Gratitude takes center stage at the Erntedankfest, the German Thanksgiving festival. Communities come together to express their thankfulness for the bounties of the season. Churches are adorned with colorful harvest displays, and parades filled with floats carrying the fruits of the land showcase the importance of giving thanks for nature’s gifts.
Date: Sunday, October 1, 2023
Festival of Lights in Berlin
As darkness descends earlier in the autumn evenings, Berlin lights up with a spectacular display of artistry during the Festival of Lights. Iconic landmarks and historical buildings become canvases for mesmerizing light projections, telling stories through vibrant colors and dynamic animations. Berlin’s streets come alive with a magical glow, and the city’s creative spirit shines brighter than ever.
Date: October 6 – 15
Autumn Travel Tips
Dress in Layers: Germany’s autumn weather can be quite unpredictable, so packing layers is key. A mix of sweaters, jackets, and scarves will keep you cozy in the cooler temperatures while allowing you to adapt to any sudden shifts in weather.
Embrace Comfortable Footwear: Whether you’re wandering through charming streets or exploring scenic trails, comfortable footwear is a must. A pair of sturdy yet comfortable shoes will ensure you can explore to your heart’s content without worry.
Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path: Autumn is the perfect time to venture beyond the tourist hotspots and discover Germany’s hidden gems. Explore lesser-known towns, stroll through tranquil parks, and interact with locals for an authentic experience of the season.
Savor Seasonal Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of autumn by sampling traditional dishes made with seasonal ingredients. From hearty pumpkin soups to freshly baked pretzels, every bite is a celebration of the harvest.
Check Festival Dates: With numerous festivals taking place, make sure to check the dates and locations of events you’re interested in attending. Whether it’s a wine fest, a pumpkin festival, or Oktoberfest, being well-informed will ensure you don’t miss out on the fun.
Capture the Moments: Autumn’s splendor is a photographer’s dream. Don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, and picturesque scenes that unfold before your eyes.
Research Hiking Trails: If hiking is on your agenda, research hiking trails that match your skill level and preferences. Germany offers a plethora of trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes, each offering a unique perspective on the season’s beauty.
Pack an Umbrella: Autumn showers are not uncommon, so tuck a compact umbrella into your bag. It will come in handy to shield you from unexpected rain while exploring the charming streets or attending outdoor events.
Plan Ahead for Accommodation: Autumn is a popular time for travelers especially those in Munich heading to Oktoberfest, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. Whether you’re staying in a cozy guesthouse or a charming boutique hotel, securing your stay ensures a stress-free trip.
Embrace Cultural Traditions: Embracing local customs and traditions adds a special touch to your autumn adventure. From celebrating St. Martin’s Day with lantern processions to joining in the joyful festivities of harvest festivals, immersing yourself in cultural experiences enriches your journey.
Best Things to Do in Autumn in Germany
Germans take pride in their outdoor activities and enjoy taking a long walk daily to enjoy the fall scenery.
Eat Some Pumpkin
Autumn in Germany | Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, indulging in pumpkin delights becomes a quintessential autumn experience in Germany. From creamy pumpkin soups that warm your soul to delectable pumpkin fires, the seasonal culinary offerings are a celebration of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re savoring a slice of pumpkin strudel in a cozy café or enjoying a hearty pumpkin stew at a local eatery, each bite tells a story of the harvest season. During this season, you’ll find pumpkin soup at almost every restaurant.
Fly a Kite
Channel your inner child and let your imagination take flight as you engage in the simple yet exhilarating act of flying a kite in the brisk autumn wind. Germany’s open fields and picturesque landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for this classic activity. Feel the tug of the string and watch your colorful kite dance against the backdrop of the clear blue sky, creating a memory that encapsulates the spirit of the season.
Attend a Harvest Festival
The heart of autumn beats to the rhythm of harvest festivals that dot the German countryside. These joyful gatherings are a tribute to nature’s bounty and the hard work of farmers. From lively parades showcasing intricately designed floats adorned with produce to bustling markets brimming with fresh goods, attending a harvest festival allows you to immerse yourself in the essence of rural life and celebrate the rewards of the season.
Go Mushroom Picking
Venture into the enchanting forests of Germany during autumn and uncover a hidden treasure trove – mushrooms! With a basket in hand and a keen eye, explore the woodland trails and discover the various fungi that flourish in this season. As you gather your finds, you’ll not only engage in a captivating outdoor activity but also become part of a longstanding tradition that connects people to the natural world.
Go to a Festival
Autumn’s arrival heralds a flurry of festivals across Germany, each with its own unique charm. From wine and food festivals that tantalize your taste buds to cultural celebrations that showcase local traditions, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine at a wine fest, marveling at intricate pumpkin carvings at a pumpkin festival, or dancing to traditional music at an Oktoberfest, these gatherings provide a vibrant tapestry of experiences.
Celebrate St. Martin’s Day
In Germany, the enchanting glow of lantern processions lights up the streets on St. Martin’s Day. Children carry colorful lanterns, creating a magical ambiance as they parade through the twilight hours. The tradition celebrates the story of St. Martin, known for his compassion and kindness. Join in the festivities, savor warm treats, and immerse yourself in a heartwarming community celebration that bridges the gap between generations.
Go Hiking
Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails to witness the breathtaking transformation of Germany’s landscapes during autumn. As the trees don their vibrant coats of red, orange, and gold, the paths come alive with a symphony of colors. Whether you’re ascending to panoramic viewpoints or exploring serene forests, hiking in autumn allows you to soak in the beauty of the season and reconnect with nature’s wonders.
Wine Tasting in the Rhine
As autumn unfurls its vibrant colors along the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine River, a delightful invitation awaits – an enchanting journey through vineyards and wineries that grace the region. Welcome to a world of sensory delights, where wine tasting in the Rhine becomes a celebration of both nature’s bounty and human craftsmanship.
Cruising along the gentle waters of the Rhine, you’ll be captivated by the sweeping views of terraced vineyards that line the riverbanks. The vines, adorned in shades of gold and crimson, create a tapestry that harmonizes with the changing season. As you embark on this oenophile’s adventure, prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors and aromas that reflect the essence of the region.
Best Cities and Places to Visit in Germany in Autumn
Rakotzbrücke
As the curtain rises on autumn, the Rakotzbrücke, also known as the Devil’s Bridge, emerges as a surreal vision in Germany’s Kromlau Park. This captivating stone bridge, adorned with its reflection in the serene waters below, creates a scene that seems plucked from a fairytale. With the surrounding trees dressed in fiery hues and the crisp air enhancing the enchantment, Rakotzbrücke stands as a testament to the harmonious union of architecture and nature.
Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
Perched atop a hill, the Hohenzollern Castle stands as a regal guardian of the past, offering breathtaking vistas of the autumnal landscapes that stretch below. As the leaves turn into vibrant shades of red and gold, this magnificent fortress casts a spell that transports you back in time. The castle’s majestic presence combined with the splendor of autumn creates a setting that is both awe-inspiring and serene.
Munich
In the heart of Bavaria, Munich transforms into an autumn wonderland, where the bustling streets and iconic landmarks embrace the season’s charm. The English Garden becomes a canvas of warm colors, inviting leisurely strolls amidst falling leaves. Traditional beer gardens serve hearty fare, creating an atmosphere that is both convivial and comforting. There are many cozy cafes and restaurants in the area.
Heidelberg
The town of Heidelberg becomes a masterpiece of autumn beauty, with the Neckar River flowing gently beneath the shadow of the imposing Heidelberg Castle. Wander through the charming Altstadt (Old Town) and feel the whisper of history as you pass by centuries-old buildings adorned in ivy. The combination of the castle’s grandeur and the town’s romantic allure makes Heidelberg a timeless destination for autumn explorations. There are quite a bit of things to do in Heidelberg which is why you should at this to your autumn in Germany itinerary.
Stuttgart
As the second-largest Oktoberfest destination, Stuttgart enters autumn with a vivacious spirit that blends tradition and modernity. The Swabian capital becomes a playground of revelry, where the Cannstatter Volksfest comes to life. The aroma of traditional dishes mingles with the laughter of locals and visitors, creating an ambiance that is rich with merriment and cultural celebration.
Lichtenberg Castle
Nestled in the charming village of Thallichtenberg in Germany’s Palatinate region, Lichtenberg Castle emerges as a captivating sentinel of history and culture. This well-preserved medieval fortress, perched on a picturesque hill, offers a glimpse into centuries of stories and traditions. As you step into its timeless embrace, you’ll find yourself transported to a world where knights roamed, lords ruled, and the echoes of the past resonate through the ancient stones.
Visiting Lichtenberg Castle in the autumn months is a particularly enchanting experience. As the surrounding foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds, the castle’s ancient stones take on a warm, inviting glow. The crisp air and the rustling leaves add to the sense of timelessness that permeates the castle grounds.
Ludwigsburg
Ludwigsburg’s enchantment deepens during autumn, especially with the renowned Ludwigsburg Pumpkin Festival. The city’s splendid baroque architecture serves as a backdrop for this whimsical event, where pumpkins of all shapes and sizes become intricate works of art. From fairy tale characters to intricate patterns, the carved pumpkins illuminate the city’s gardens where you can enjoy the colorful fall foliage and create an atmosphere of pure magic.
Berlin
As autumn paints Berlin with its golden touch, the Festival of Lights brings an ethereal glow to the city’s landmarks. From the Brandenburg Gate to the Berlin Cathedral, these iconic structures become canvases for mesmerizing light installations that tell stories through vibrant colors and dynamic animations. Berlin’s streets come alive with a magical atmosphere, making the city’s creative spirit shine even brighter.
Potsdam
The splendid gardens of Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam undergo a breathtaking transformation as autumn takes hold. The meticulously landscaped grounds, adorned with statues, fountains, and vibrant foliage, create an idyllic escape from the bustling world. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be transported to a realm where the elegance of history merges with the enchantment of the season.
Neuschwanstein Castle
As autumn paints the landscapes with a kaleidoscope of colorful leaves in southern Germany, this majestic castle stands as a testament to the whimsy of King Ludwig II’s imagination.
Perched atop a hill in Bavaria surrounded by the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle emerges from the mist like a vision from a storybook. The surrounding forests adorned with fiery red and golden leaves create a breathtaking backdrop that enhances the castle’s charm. As you approach, the turrets and towers adorned with whimsical designs transport you to a world of dreams.
Built in the 19th century, Neuschwanstein Castle captures the romantic spirit of a bygone era. Its interiors, though incomplete, offer a glimpse into the king’s vision – a blend of medieval motifs and artistic inspiration. The grandeur of the Throne Room and the intricate detailing in the Singers’ Hall reveal King Ludwig II’s dedication to creating a sanctuary where reality and fantasy could coexist.
Final Thoughts on Autumn in Germany
Each of these locations in Germany invites you to embrace the sensory delights of autumn – from the rustling leaves underfoot to the rich colors that paint the landscapes. Whether you’re seeking history, natural beauty, or cultural celebrations, these destinations offer a captivating experience that encapsulates the essence of autumn in Germany.
The number of calls I’ve gotten from friends and family members lately asking me to help with using credit card points for flights is at an all-time high. You should have a workshop, they say. We’d pay to have you figure this out for us, they tell me.
But look, I’m not going to charge them—or you—but I will share all my secrets here. It’s taken me awhile to figure out the process, and it’s a bit like travel Jenga if we’re being honest. If you do find this content helpful, I’d appreciate you use the embedded links to open credit cards or subscriptions, as it continues to help me provide these resources free of charge to you.
This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Quick resources for booking flights
How to find rewards flights
People think that opening a credit card and earning the sign-up bonus is all you have to do, and rewards flights will just materialize. Wrong! Obviously, you need the points first, but each airline varies in how much inventory they have open for awards seats and the amount of points needed to book (which also depends on time of year you’re traveling, class of service and route, among other things). One service I love that makes this process easier is Point.Me, which lets you load in all your credit card points and figures out flights for you based on which points you have (Ultimate Rewards, Membership Rewards, Bilt Reward, etc.). You can then sort by lowest points, quickest flights or your personal credit card/airline loyalty programs.
It’s how I found our flights in a very complicated itinerary to Qatar and onto Thailand—we flew in suites all the way around the world and just paid a total of $200 out of pocket for taxes—and it’s well worth the subscription fee. But if you don’t want the ease of a service to do it for you, here’s what you need to know as you start the process of using credit card points for flights.
You have to put in the research
Once you have your destination in mind, the first things to research are 1) what airlines fly there from your home airport and 2) do your credit card points transfer to those airlines? For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to United, KLM and AirFrance, while American Express Membership Rewards transfer to Delta (and no one transfers to American, ha). I find this chart from In Points We Trust a helpful one to reference quickly when I’m doing my flight searches.
When finding reward flight availability, you may have to reposition to a larger airport (i.e. book a separate flight to a larger airport with better airlift). Being based out of Nashville at BNA, I do a lot of this—I often fly for cheap or use my Companion Pass to get to other cities like D.C., Atlanta, Newark or even JFK to begin my journey, then book my round-trip international airfare out of those hubs.
Once you have an idea of what routes go where, then you can start plugging and playing on the airline websites. You’ll usually need a frequent flier account to search rewards availability, so go ahead and sign up for the airline(s) you think you may be flying so you’ll be one step closer. After you have an account, you can plug in your dates or date range, then start looking at availability and pricing. For many airlines, this means checking a box that says “use points” or “rewards flights.” And if the airline (like United, pictured here) offers a calendar by the month, it’s worth checking to see what days have the cheapest rewards availability to your destination.
Sometimes, I find it easier to search awards availability on the airline’s app, so if you’re finding the browser experience clunky, considering downloading the app instead. The 300 level of using credit card points to fly for free is learning what alliances (e.g. Avios, Flying Blue, etc.) you can transfer to—and also what airports to avoid connecting through as they charge an exorbitant amount of taxes (I’m looking at you, Heathrow)—but that is a topic for another day once you’ve got the basics down.
This is important: You’re always going to want to transfer points to that airline’s site versus booking through the credit card portal, which often costs five times the points as transferring directly to the airline, not to mention has fewer routes available.
If you find a flight for, say, Qatar Airways that requires 140,000 points, then—and only then—is it safe to transfer the points over from your credit card to that airline account and book the flight stat. Points transfers often are instantaneous but sometimes can take up to 72 hours, so don’t fret if you don’t see them in your airline account right away. And if an airline allows you to hold the seat—which often is something you’d have to do via calling—absolutely take them up on that.
You have to book early
For our Thailand trip this year, I booked my flights 11 months out, and the same for our Australia trip coming up this winter. Do you always have to be looking that far out? If you want to fly business, the answer is generally yes. Economy availability is usually more plentiful, but business class has limited inventory because the airlines want the cash for those expensive seats.
Airlines typically release flights around 330 before departure. If you’re flying international and want to use points for business class seats, I suggest you book as close to that release date as possible.
You have to be flexible
You can’t have dates set in stone when you need to leave and arrive and expect to find points flights that magically align with that dream. After I have a general idea of where I want to go—like the year and season, for example—and how many days I want to be gone for, I’ll start tracking prices on Google Flights (if I’m paying out of pocket), including setting up price alerts, and watching rewards availability like a hawk (if I’m using points). This is a time-consuming hobby, make no mistake.
If you have the flexibility to travel with a few weeks’ notice, you can definitely make out well using points for flights. For example, I just saw a lot of award availability open up to Europe for next month! The points game is great for Type A travelers like me who plan their travels a year out, as well as fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants jetsetters who have the flexibility to up and go on a whim.
I also subscribe to many different newsletters like Going and 10xTravel—I recommend the paid subscriptions for both—which give me heads up about short sales, awards flight availability and more.
Also know going into this process that many holidays or high season periods will likely be sold out or blacked out—or, on the flip side, you’ll have to spend a premium of points, meaning it might not be worth it to use your hard-earned points on that specific trip. I typically find I get the best bang for my buck using credit card points for flights when I’m traveling outside of the big travel seasons like summer and November/December.
My favorite credit cards for earning travel points
Each of them has different benefits, but all of them come with lounge access, which I use the heck out of.
Top ways to earn points toward flights
Beyond opening credit cards, getting the sign-up bonuses and using those cards for key categories, there are other things you can do to make sure you’re getting the maximum points.
Link your Rakuten to your AmEx account
The number one—read this: NUMBER ONE—way to rack up additional Membership Rewards points is by signing up for a free Rakuten account, then linking it to your American Express card. I’ve found my points through cash back are way more valuable than a few dollars each cycle.
You can only do this if you have an AmEx account. Sorry, Chase and Cap1 card holders. Explore my favorite AmEx card here.
Check your offers regularly
No matter which card you have, there will be an offers section in your dashboard. I routinely browse them and add any ones—like LuluLemon, Marathon gas, Hilton, etc.—to my offers, that way if I spend money with any of those businesses and meet the criteria, I’ll either earn additional points or cash back. AmEx, in particular, often has points deals for Amazon purchases. You just have to make sure you (obviously) use that card when shopping at the business.
Refer your family and friends
Once you have opened credit cards, using your referral link when friends and family open the same card can be helpful in accruing additional points you can use toward travel. And bonus, you didn’t have to spend a dime to do it either!
Any other questions on using credit card points for flights? This is just the tip of the iceberg, but should get you going as you work toward your master’s degree in rewards travel.
Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Pompeii is one of the most well-known archaeological sites in Italy, and a popular attraction for visitors. We’ve visited Pompeii a number of times over the years, (Laurence first visited in 1995) and in this guide we’re going to share everything you need to know to plan your own visit to Pompeii.
There’s a lot to see and learn about at Pompeii, and there are also various options for visiting. You can take a guided tour or do a self-guided visit, and there are also various transport options for getting to Pompeii from different locations in Italy, including Rome, Naples and the Amalfi Coast.
In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to visit Pompeii, from getting to Pompeii, to which tours are worth it, to other sights in the area, and lots more. Let’s get started with some background.
What is Pompeii?
In AD 79, Pompeii (Pompei in Italian) was a relatively large and successful town in the Roman Empire, home to between 10 and 20 thousand people.
That all came to an end in the autumn of 79 AD when the nearby Mount Vesuvius volcano erupted. This had catastrophic consequences for the surrounding towns and villages.
Within 24 hours of the eruption, the massive amount of ash and pumice produced by the volcanic eruption had covered the towns in the region to a depth of 13 – 20 ft (4 – 6 metres).
Thousands of people who had tried to shelter lost their lives, and the towns were effectively lost to history.
It wasn’t really until the 18th century that Pompeii and neighboring towns such as Herculaneum surfaced back into public consciousness. This was when the first scientific excavations at the site took place.
In the following centuries, huge efforts were taken to reveal the hidden city, efforts that continue today. New discoveries are still being made at the site every year.
Pompeii effectively serves as a snapshot of a Roman town at the height of the Roman Empire. The volcanic eruption was so violent and quick that a great many inhabitants perished, with their bodies trapped in the ash. Plaster casts of the imprints these bodies left behind are an image that is inextricably linked with Pompeii.
Planning your Visit to Pompeii
I’ll now go through some helpful information to help you plan your trip to Pompeii, from how to get here to where to buy tickets and lots more.
Where is Pompeii?
Pompeii is found in the Campania region of Italy at the southern end of the Bay of Naples. It’s around 27km (16 miles) to the southeast of Naples, or approximately a 30-minute trip by car, bus or train.
It’s around 250km (155 miles) south of Rome, or approximately a three-hour journey by car, bus or train.
It is possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from both Rome and Naples, options I will cover below.
House of the Tragic Poet
How to get to Pompeii?
Pompeii is relatively easy to reach, with good transport connections from various locations in Italy. We’ll go through the options for visiting Pompeii from some of the more popular departure points.
How to get to Pompeii from Rome?
It is possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from Rome as long you are prepared for a long day with a fair bit of travel time. You’re generally looking at around 2.5 – 3 hours of travel time each way from Rome to Pompeii.
The main options you have are to drive, take public transport, or take a guided tour.
Drive from Rome to Pompeii
Unless you are planning on taking a road trip in Italy and continuing on after Pompeii, we’d suggest taking public transport or a tour rather than driving.
If you drive, you’ll have to go through the hassle of finding and renting a car, dealing with traffic around Rome, navigating, and paying tolls and gas.
Taking public transport or a tour is going to be a lot easier.
Public Transport from Rome to Pompeii
For public transport, you can take an express train from Rome to Naples Central train station. Then, from Naples you can take a local train to Pompeii.
See details below in the section on getting from Naples to Pompeii for how to do this.
Tours from Rome to Pompeii
Our recommended way for getting from Rome to Pompeii as a day trip is to take a guided tour. This will make your day a lot more relaxing as you won’t have to worry about logistics.
You’ll also have a better time at Pompeii with a professional guide to explain what you are seeing. There are a number of tour options to Pompeii from Rome, some recommended options are as follows.
When comparing tours and prices, always check how much time is actually spent at the various sights, as well as group size and what is and isn’t included.
Paying a little extra for a tour that includes more might work out more cost effective!
How to get to Pompeii from Naples?
There are multiple options for getting from Naples to Pompeii. You can drive, take the train, take a shuttle bus, take a train, or take a tour.
Drive from Naples to Pompeii
The drive from Naples to Pompeii is around 30 minutes via the A3 toll road, and there is paid parking on site.
This is going to be an option to consider if you already have a car rental for your trip in Italy, but we’d not recommend renting a car specifically for this journey as the other options are likely going to be easier.
Shuttle Bus from Naples to Pompeii
A really easy option for getting from Naples to Pompeii is to take the dedicated City Sightseeing bus. This departs from central Naples and takes you directly to the ruins.
The journey takes around 40 minutes depending on traffic, and you get around 4 hours on site. Note that you have to book a specific departure time, which ties you to a specific return time, you can’t choose to stay longer and come back on a later bus.
4 hours should give you enough time to see a lot, but if you wanted to spend longer on site then this might not be the best option.
There are two direct train options for getting from Naples Central train station to Pompeii.
First, you need to be aware that Pompeii itself has a couple of train stations. When taking the train to the Pompeii historical site you want to get off at Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteria Station as this is the one directly by the ruins.
Direct trains from Naples to Pompeii all depart from the Garibaldi train station, which is (a little confusingly) located directly underneath Naples Centrale train station.
The cheapest train option from Naples to Pompeii is the Circumvesuviana service. This regional commuter train system runs trains all around the area, and you will want to take a train which is heading to Sorrento.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, and there are normally a few trains every hour. Journey time to Pompeii is around 35 minutes. You can see train times on the official website here (Italian only).
A slightly more expensive, but generally more comfortable train option, is the tourist-oriented Campania Express train. This also operates from Garibaldi train station and takes you directly to the ruins.
Trains run less frequently and cost more, but are less crowded and more comfortable.
See timetables and buy tickets with seat reservation for the Campania Express train online here. Tickets are also available in person.
Note that Trenitalia runs trains from Naples central train station to Pompeii, but these go to the main train station in Pompeii rather than the station by the ruins.
It’s possible to take a shuttle out to the ruins or walk (20 – 30 minutes), but honestly, we’d recommend taking one of the other options as it’s going to be easier. You won’t be having a shortage of walking when you’re on site!
Entrance to Garbialdi train station in Naples from the Naples Central train station
Tours from Naples to Pompeii
You can also book a tour to Pompeii which includes round-trip transport to and from Naples. There are quite a few options, with both half-day and full-day tours available.
Most full-day tours include an additional attraction or two such as a visit to Mount Vesuvius or time on the Amalfi Coast.
Here are some options to consider.
How to get to Pompeii from Sorrento
Sorrento is one of the major towns on Italy’s popular Amalfi coast, a popular and spectacular destination for tourists visiting Italy. Sorrento makes for a good base for exploring the Amalfi Coast.
It’s also easy to get to, being connected by rail directly to Naples. This is on the same train line that goes to Pompeii, meaning you can easily reach Pompeii by train from Sorrento as well.
Here are some options for how to get from Sorrento to Pompeii.
Driving from Sorrento to Pompeii
You can drive from Sorrento to Pompeii, so if you already have your own car rental this is definitely an option to consider. However, you might find taking the train to be just as convenient.
The 28km (17 mile) drive takes around 40 minutes depending on traffic. Just remember you’ll need to pay for parking when you get to Pompeii.
Public Transport from Sorrento to Pompeii
Getting from Sorrento to Pompeii by public transport is easy. There is a regular train service from Sorrento to Naples, which stops at the Pompeii Scavi train station. This is right by the Pompeii site entrance.
Tickets can be purchased at the station, and there are normally a few trains every hour. Journey time to Pompeii is around 45 minutes. You can see train times on the official website here (Italian only).
Tours from Sorrento to Pompeii
You can also take a guided tour from Sorrento to Pompeii. These tours generally include round-trip transfers, and a guided tour of Pompeii lasting 2-3 hours.
Tours then differentiate by other additions such as lunch, and other destinations like Mount Vesuvius or Herculaneum.
Note that not all tours include your Pompeii entrance ticket, and any additional sights may have additional ticket requirements, such as Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum. So always check what is and isn’t included before booking anything.
Here is a selection of tours from Sorrento to Pompeii to consider.
As you can see there are plenty of options. We’d always recommend comparing a few different tours to see which suits your requirements and budget, and always check what is and isn’t included when comparing tours as well.
Pompeii Opening Times
Pompeii is normally open year-round with the exception of 25th December, 1st May, and 1st January.
Generally, everything at Pompeii opens at 9am, but closure times can vary. So if you want to see everything, then we recommend visiting in the morning. This is usually also the coolest time of day in the summer months.
There are also multiple locations across the main Pompeii site such as the Amphitheater, Garden of the Fugitives, House of the Menander etc. which also have opening times to be aware of. You can see those here.
Additionally, there are a number of nearby sites linked to Pompeii which have a last entrance time 30 minutes after the main site last entrance time.
These include Villa Regina, Villa Arianna, Villa San Marco and Villa de Poppea. These locations are all closed on Tuesdays with the exception of Villa Regina.
These extra sites require a specific ticket to access them and you need to take a shuttle bus from the main Pompeii site to reach them, so if you plan to visit these locations you will want to give yourself plenty of time.
You can see more information on opening times as well as any exceptional closure information for Pompeii on the official website here.
How Long to Visit Pompeii For
There is a great deal to see at Pompeii, however you also have to consider the time of year you are visiting and your personal interest in ancient archaeological sites when deciding how long to visit.
The majority of visitors come for 2 – 3 hours, which is also how long the majority of guided tours are.
If you think you will want to spend more time on site (there is lots to see), then a good option is to take a guided tour that finishes on site, and then explore on your own when the tour is finished. Your tour guide should be able to direct you to particular highlights once the tour is over.
We have done this and it was a great way to learn a lot from a guide, after which we were able to explore on our own at our leisure.
One thing to note, if you are visiting in the summer months it can get very hot here, and there isn’t a lot of shade, so visiting for much longer than 2 or 3 hours can be quite challenging.
However, if you are really keen to explore and spend more time on site, and are either prepared for the heat or are visiting at a cooler time of year, there is certainly lots to see! You could easily spend a whole day exploring Pompeii, especially if you head out to the villas. It’s entirely up to you!
Stabian Baths
Pompeii Ticket Information
We’ll now cover ticketing information for Pompeii, including ticket types and costs, discounted tickets, where to buy tickets and more.
Do You Need a Ticket for Pompeii?
Yes, all visitors need a ticket for Pompeii, even those eligible for free and discounted entry.
You can purchase tickets online in advance or in person on site.
How Much does it Cost to Visit Pompeii?
There are a number of ticket options for Pompeii, depending on what you want to see. These are as follows. Prices are correct as of April 2025.
Tickets are for adults 18 and over only. Children under 18 have free entry, although they do still require a ticket which can only be collected in person at the ticket office.
If you arrive at Pompeii with an Express ticket and decide you want to visit the villas, it is possible to purchase a ticket upgrade for €8 at the Herculaneum Gate – Street of the Tombs entrance. This only accepts card payment.
Are there Discounted Pompeii Tickets?
Yes, discounted Pompeii Tickets are available.
EU citizens between the ages of 18 and 24 inclusive with ID can enter the park for €2.
All children under 18 get free entry to Pompeii, although they still require a ticket.
There are currently no discounts for seniors.
Where to Buy Pompeii Tickets
You have a number of options for purchasing Pompeii tickets.
In person
First, you can buy tickets for Pompeii on-site at Pompeii itself. There are ticket offices at the three main entrances: Porta Marina, Piazza Anfiteatro and Piazza Esedra.
We’d generally advise against this where possible as you might end up standing in line for a while, but it is an option.
If you under 18, an EU resident aged 18-24, or fall into another category for reduced price tickets, then you will need to visit the ticket office for your ticket.
This is so your qualification for the reduced price ticket can be verified, so be sure to bring any necessary paperwork, such as a government issued Photo ID document (i.e. a passport or ID card).
Online
You can buy Pompeii tickets online from a number of websites, as follows:
In our experience, the official website tends to have the lowest cost online tickets, but they do not come with free cancellation.
Tickets sold by third parties do normally cost a bit more, but can have benefits such as free cancellation as well as the option to book a guided tour.
We recommend comparing prices and options to see which suits you. It’s also important to carefully read the redemption instructions when buying a ticket online so you know what you need to do in advance of your visit.
Often you can just show a ticket on your smartphone, but sometimes you might need to print something out or collect a ticket from a specific pick-up point.
You can also buy this pass which includes access to multiple sites of interest. It includes your Pompeii entry ticket, Vesuvius ticket and Herculaneum ticket. If you plan on visiting all these sights this can be can good option to consider.
By Phone
You can buy tickets for Pompeii by phone. The number is +39 811 865 8177. The office is normally open weekdays from 9.30 to 6pm. There’s a surcharge of €1.50 for booking by phone.
Can you Skip the Lines at Pompeii?
There are two lines at Pompeii. First, there is the line for the ticket office where you can buy tickets in person. Next, there is an entrance line for going into the site, which includes a security check.
If you pre-book your ticket, in most cases you can skip the ticket line. However, this will depend on the ticket you purchase, as some online tickets require you to swap a voucher for an actual ticket, so do check if this is the case with the ticket you have purchased.
The security / ticket-check line cannot be skipped by any visitors, but in our experience it moves pretty quickly.
When is Pompeii Free in 2025?
Pompeii is free to visit on the first Sunday of every month. On these days you will still need a ticket, but there is no cost for purchasing it.
Tickets for the free days can be purchased online at the official Ticketone site here, or in person at the ticket office on site.
We’d suggest doing the online ticket option as the site can get very busy on the free days, and if it exceeds capacity, the ticket offices close.
Note that some third-party sites will still charge you for the free ticket days, so only buy tickets for the free days on the official site!
What is the Pompeii Official Website?
There are multiple sites offering information on visiting Pompeii, including this one.
However, for the latest information on visiting Pompeii including ticket prices, updates, opening hours and more, we always recommend consulting the official website.
You can find it at the following web address, with content available in multiple languages including English. The site is excellent and has a wealth of information to help you plan your visit, and is well worth checking out.
Pompeii is a large attraction, covering around 65 hectares (170 acres). From the east side to the west side is around a kilometer (0.67 miles), and it’s 0.8km (0.5 miles) from north to south.
Suffice to say, it’s not hard to get lost in Pompeii. Whilst much of the site is laid out in a grid, there are also plenty of narrow lanes and twists and turns. Navigation isn’t helped by fairly limited signage.
To help you find your way around, it’s a good idea to have an idea of the layout of Pompeii.
The first thing to know is that Pompeii is divided into nine distinct regions, or “Regio“. This system was developed way back in the 19th century when the site started to be excavated and remains in use to this day.
Each regio is assigned a Roman number, from I (one) to IX (nine). The regio is in a grid pattern, 3 wide and 3 high.
The layout of the regions isn’t entirely intuitive. It’s a counterclockwise spiral starting from the lower middle grid square. You can think of it like a tic-tac-toe board, or a table that looks as follows.
VI
V
IV
VII
IX
III
VIII
I
II
Having an idea of this grid and the numbering system will help you orient yourself when you are on site, as the Regio number you are in is regularly printed on walls and in signs.
Each Regio is also divided into “Insulae” or “Insula”. In Roman times, an Insulae was a city block, or an apartment building. For Pompeii, the Insulae are the blocks.
So, when you see a sign in Pompeii, it will usually tell you which Regio and Insulae you are in, for example REG VII INS XIII would mean you are in Regio 7, Insula 13.
The Insula follow a layout system which I’m sure makes sense to an archeologist but seems designed to confuse the average person in my opinion.
However, it doesn’t really matter, because the official map has both the Regio and Insula numbers marked. So, if you have the map, all you need to do is find a sign to know where you are.
We highly recommend doing this in advance and saving it to your smartphone for reference. You should be able to get a printed version of this guide when you visit, but it’s good to be prepared just in case they aren’t available.
There are also street names to help you orient yourself. The main houses and attractions also have names.
I’d also add that each house (and some of the rooms in the houses) also have numbers. However, this is really more for cataloging and archaeological purposes rather than something visitors would want to use for navigating!
It is also worth noting that whilst most visitors visit the main Pompeii site, there are a number of other sites which have been excavated, and which can also be visited. These require you to have a different ticket, and to take a shuttle bus from the main site.
In summary, if you are visiting Pompeii without a guide, we recommend having a map on hand, and being aware of the Regio and Insulae system. You can also orient yourself with nearby obvious landmarks, with Mount Vesuvius often visible for example.
Model of Pompeii as displayed in the Naples Archaeological Museum
What to see and do at Pompeii
There’s a lot to see and do in Pompeii, and it can be a fairly overwhelming place to visit. This is why we would recommend taking a guided tour, or at the very least getting an audio guide.
To help you figure out what to see, we’re going to share what we think are some of the unmissable sights at Pompeii. Most tours will include at least some of these, although tour routes can vary. If you are taking a tour, always check what they include to be sure it covers your interests.
Top Sights at Pompeii
Obviously, everyone will have slightly different interests, however we think this is a good overview of the main highlights at Pompeii. These are the sights that most tours are likely to visit as well, although of course it will vary, and not all tours will visit every sight we list.
These sights are ordered approximately as you would encounter them entering the city from the western side. There’s an excellent map here you can download for reference as well.
Porta Marina – arguably the most impressive of the original seven gateways to the city, and the one which led to the sea, hence the name. The barrel-vaulted ceiling is made from concrete and dates from 80BC.
Plaster Casts of Pompeii’s victims – One of the most well-known sights at Pompeii are the plaster casts of those who lost their lives in the eruption, including people and dogs. The victims were encased in ash and asphyxiated, and their bodies entombed. Over time the bodies decomposed, leaving gaps in the hardened ash layer. During the excavations, plaster was carefully injected into these cavities to form the molds you can see today. These can be seen at various locations in Pompeii, including at the Antiquarium and the Forum Granary
Antiquarium di Pompei (Pompeii archaeological museum) – found by the Porta Marina, this museum houses a collection of artifacts from the site. It must be said that the best artefacts from Pompeii can be found in the Naples Archaeological Museum, however there is a lot to see here nonetheless, including plaster casts of Pompeii’s victims.
The Forum (Foro) – the heart of any Roman city or town is the Forum, where you would have found city administration buildings, the main temples and the market. If something important was going to happen in Pompeii, this was probably where it was going to happen.
Basilica – found in the south-western corner of the Forum, the Basilica dates from around 80BC. Despite the religious sounding name, it was actually more of a civic hall, used for business and as a court for handling legal matters. Religious Basilicas came later, basing their name and layout on the Roman buildings!
Forum Granary – The Granary is located by the Forum and would originally have been the main produce market. Today it is the home of thousands of artifacts which have been excavated from the ruins, as well as plaster casts of some of the victims of the disaster.
Baths of the Forum (Terme del Foro) – No Roman town is complete without a bath house (the more the better), and Pompeii had at least five of them. The Baths of the Forum are the closest to the Forum. Here you can see the male and female bathing houses including the hot bath room, warm bath room and cold plunge room.
Via Abbondanza (main street) – the main street (Decumanus Maximus in Roman times) of Pompeii runs west to east from the Forum all the way across the town to Sarno Gate. This would have been a busy, pedestrianized street filled with shops and food and drink vendors. The stretch which leads from the Forum has three upright stones, designed to block chariot passage as this was a pedestrian street.
Eateries – along many of the streets, and especially the main streets, you will see evidence of ancient Roman eateries. Look for marble counter tops with holes cut out where the food would have been stored.
Arches – Pompeii has a number of arches which you will see throughout the city. At the northern end of the Forum is an honorary arch, whilst further north at the intersection of Via Fortuna and Vicolo del Foro you will find the Arch of Caligula. Some of these arches also served a more practical function, hiding water tanks that supplied nearby fountains. Today many of these fountains have been modernized and provide clean drinking water for visitors.
House of the Tragic Poet (Casa del Poeta Tragico) – One of the many houses you can visit in Pompeii, this one is just to the north of the Forum by the Arch of Caligula. It’s notable for the beautiful mosaic floors which depict scenes from Greek mythology, which is where the houses name comes from.
House of the Faun (Casa del Fauno) – just to the northeast of the House of the Tragic Poet, on Vicolo del Fauno, this is one of the largest and most well-known of the houses in Pompeii, and is a must-visit. It occupies a whole block, taking up around 32,000 square feet, and would have been owned by a very wealthy family. The name comes from a bronze statue of a faun which was found here, the original of which is in the Naples Archaeological Museum (a copy is viewable in the house).
House of the Vetti (Casa dei Vetti)– found to the northeast of the House of the Faun, the House of the Vetti is a beautifully decorated property featuring many beautiful fresco paintings which depict various mythological scenes. It’s also a very large property.
Brothel (Lupanare) – almost as popular today as it likely was in its heyday 2,000 years ago (although with a somewhat different clientele), the brothel was where citizens came to find sex workers, as well as drinks and social interaction. The name Lupanare comes from the Latin name for a wolf-den, as prostitutes were known as she-wolves. The brothel has fairly graphic frescoes and graffiti, and parents might want to skip this attraction.
Stabian Baths (Terme Stabiane) – As previously mentioned, Pompeii had at least five bath houses, of which the Stabian Baths are the largest and oldest. In fact, they are one of the oldest Roman baths in the world. They are found on the intersection Via dell’Abbondanza and Via Stabiana. Here you can see the different mens and women’s bathing areas. We’d probably recommend picking one bath house to visit, unless you are particularly into Roman bath houses.
Other sites which are a little off the main route and which are not always included on regular tours (although, again, this varies!):
Temple of Isis (Tempio di Iside) – this small and largely intact temple is found next to the Grand Theatre, and is dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis. The Cult of Isis was popular in Pompeii, despite proclamations against it by the Roman Senate. It is believed that the composer Mozart visited this temple when he was 13, and it inspired his composition The Magic Flute
Grand Theater (Teatro Grande) – Entertainment was a key part of Roman life, and there were a number of venues across the city where performances would have taken place. The Grand Theater was built in the Greek style, which meant taking advantage of a natural hill slope to create the auditorium, which would have had seating for 5,000 spectators. Much of the Theatre survives today, and it is well worth a visit. It’s in the south part of Pompeii, near Porta di Stabia.
Small Theater (Teatro Piccolo – Odeion) – Right next to the Grand Theater is the Small Theater, a more intimate performance venue which was also used for council meetings. It also had a roof, primarily to improve acoustics. At the time, it was often used for mime performances, which were popular. It was also used for music.
Viewpoint / Panoramic View of Pompeii – To grasp the scale of Pompeii, you should consider visiting the viewpoint by Casina dell’Aquila, just by the intersection of Via Dell’Abbondanza and Vicolo di Tesmo. The viewpoint is at the original level of the ground here before the excavation, and will give you an idea of just how much ground had to be moved in order to unearth the city.
House of Menander (Casa del Menandro) – owned by a high ranking and wealthy family, this large house (19,000 square feet) is named for the fresco which depicts the Greek playwright Menander. There are a number of rooms that can be visited.
Garden of the Fugitives (Orto dei Fuggiaschi) – found in the southeast part of Pompeii, the Garden of the Fugitives contains the plaster casts of 13 of the victims who died trying to escape the city.
Amphitheater – an important entertainment center in a Roman city or town was the amphitheater, essentially an enclosed theatre which was used for gladiatorial battles, circuses and more. The most famous Amphitheatre is Rome’s Colosseum, but the one in Pompeii is actually one of the oldest surviving amphitheaters from the Roman Empire. Much of the structure still survives, with seating for around 20,000 people.
Aqueduct – The Romans were incredible engineers, and whilst they didn’t invent the aqueduct, their aqueducts were definitely engineering wonders of their time. They allowed the distribution of water across the Roman Empire, and allowed towns like Pompeii to get fresh water to their citizens. The water in Pompeii was carried by the Augustan Aqueduct, sourcing water from 96km away, using only gravity to move the water! Today, you can see where the aqueduct system arrived into the city at Castellum Aqueduct, next to Porto Vesuvio in the northern part of the city. From here it was distributed to water towers and fountains across the city.
As you can see, there’s plenty to see and take in at Pompeii!
Casa Del Menandro
Casa del Fauno
Pompeii Amphitheater
Tours of Pompeii
One of the best ways to visit Pompeii is to take a guided tour. There’s a lot to see and a lot of history and information to absorb, and having a good guide can definitely improve your experience.
You have a few options for taking a tour. You can book a tour which includes transport from a major city such as Rome or Naples. Or, you can make your own way to Pompeii and just take a tour on site.
We’ll include a number of options for you to consider, depending on your preferences.
You can also book a tour guide on arrival at Pompeii. Tour guides are available just inside the site entrance and should have an official badge.
Note however that whilst accredited, the guides are freelance and prices are not fixed. You will need to negotiate price, route and tour duration with the available on-site guides.
Generally, these guides will have a price they charge for a tour, irrespective of group size. By having a larger group you’ll pay less per person, but obviously have a less personalized experience.
Depending on how busy the day is, guides may not be available. So, we would generally recommend booking a guided tour in advance instead.
Pompeii Forum on a guided tour
Pompeii official guide point
Practicalities for Visiting Pompeii
Dress Code at Pompeii
Pompeii is not a religious site and as such there is no specific dress code for visiting.
There are a couple of rules around clothing. First, you cannot be bare chested, you must be wearing a top. In addition, clothing that could be considered disruptive is also not allowed, and costumes, masks and banners are not permitted.
This clothing rule is normally used to prevent protestors using the site, so is unlikely to affect most visitors. Steer clear of any offensive clothing and you’ll be fine!
You will still want to think through your clothing choices prior to visiting. The majority of your visit will be spent outside, and there is minimal shade or shelter available.
See the section of what to wear and pack for Pompeii for some suggestions on what to bring for your visit.
Facilities at Pompeii
Pompeii has a number of visitor services you can use. These include:
two on-site bookshops, one at Piazza Esedra and one inside the Antiquarium.
audio guide hire, available at the Porta Marina entrance and Porta Anfiteatro entrance.
first aid services, available near the Chora Cafe on Vicolo degli Augustali
Multiple free water fountains across the site
Multiple free toilet facilities across the site
Baby changing facilities. There are three of these, one on Via dell’Abbondanza, one on Via di Nola, and one at the corner of Via Stabiana and Via della Fortuna
Restaurants / Dining at Pompeii
If you’re visiting Pompeii for a few hours you might want some food. There are a number of tourist oriented restaurants near the main entrances to the site, particularly around the train station. There are also two main options for food and snacks on site as follows:
A cafe called Chora where you can get drinks and snacks like cakes, pastries and ice cream. This is at Casina Dell’Aquila, on Via Dell’Abbondanza
The Vicolo del Foro restaurant, which is just north of the Forum by the Arco di Nerone Forum entrance / exit.
Note that you cannot exit and re-enter Pompeii on the same ticket, so if you plan to eat on site during your visit you will either need to bring food with you, or visit one of the above options.
Smoking at Pompeii
Smoking is forbidden at Pompeii except at designated smoking areas. These can be found near the Casina dell’Aquila and the toilet facilities.
Security at Pompeii
All visitors must go through a security check at Pompeii. Bulky objects, umbrellas, and bags larger than 30x30x15 cm (12 x 12 x 6 inches) are not permitted on the site and must be left at the cloakroom. This is a free service.
Otherwise, the rules are pretty obvious, and mostly focus on protecting the site and ensuring a good experience for all. So you’re not allowed to play music, deface objects, climb on the ruins, pick fruits or flowers, build fires, enter fenced off areas and so on.
You can see the full list of rules and regulations here.
Accessibility at Pompeii
Pompeii is obviously an ancient city, and as such there are accessibility challenges. However, efforts have been made to ensure the site is as accessible as possible for all visitors.
There are a number of specially designed accessible routes, called Pompeii for All, which are designed to allow access for mobility impaired users, as well as parents with buggies, to a large part of the site.
These routes include many of the main buildings that visitors would want to see, and cover a total of 3.5km. You can see details of these routes on the Pompeii for All page.
There are also accessible toilets found on site.
Pompeii has also developed a program to help those hard to hearing to enjoy the site. More on this program, and accessibility on the site in general, can be found on the Pompeii for All page.
Luggage storage Near Pompeii
Visitors to Pompeii are not allowed to bring any bags larger than 30cm x 30cm x 15cm on site. So nothing larger than a small backpack essentially. We’d suggest leaving luggage in your hotel room where possible.
If you must travel with a bag which is larger than the allowed size, there is a cloakroom at Pompeii itself where you can store luggage and other items free of charge.
There are also luggage storage lockers on the lower floor of the Pompeii Scavi train station available for a fee.
Tips for Visiting Pompeii
Based on our experiences visiting Pompeii, we wanted to share some tips to help you get the most from your visit.
Plan your day in advance
The first thing we recommend doing is planning your day out before you visit. Decide what you want to see at Pompeii, and then decide if you want to take a tour.
If you decide to take a tour, check what it includes, and then consider if you need additional time. If you are taking a tour that includes round-trip transport, you might not have much extra time.
If you are taking a tour that starts on site, make sure you know where the meeting point is and the meeting time, and plan how you will get to and from Pompeii.
If you are doing a self-guided visit for any part of your time at Pompeii, we suggest looking at the official map and planning out what you want to see. You may even consider coming up with a general route to follow. This will help orient you when you are actually there.
Consider a Guided Tour or Audio Guide
We can highly recommend taking a guided tour of Pompeii. An expert guide is going to be able to bring the site to life and really help you understand what you are seeing.
On our most recent visit to Pompeii we took this guided tour with Take Walks and can highly recommend it. However, there are a number of options.
If you take a guided tour that meets on site, we highly recommend planning on staying at least an hour more on site once the tour ends so you can see any other sites that the tour didn’t cover.
If you opt not to take a guided tour, then we’d suggest either picking up an audio guide on site, or at the very least a guidebook that includes a self-guided Pompeii tour like the Rick Steves Italy guidebook.
Dress and Pack Accordingly
If you are visiting Pompeii in the hotter months of the year, you will want to bring a good sun hat to keep the sun off your face, loose fitting clothing, and likely a small daypack to carry suncream, water and any snacks.
If rain is a possibility, a light raincoat or poncho is also a good idea. Umbrellas are not allowed on site.
If you are visiting outside of the warmest months of the year, then some warmer layers are a good idea just in case it is cooler on site.
Footwear is also important. The ancient streets of Pompeii can be uneven, varying between loose dirt and cobblestones. A good pair of comfortable shoes that you are happy to spend time walking in is a must.
You will definitely want to bring a water bottle with you. Fresh drinking water is available at fountains across the site, and on a hot day you will need to drink plenty of water. We use and love our Klean Kanteen water bottles for travel, but there are lots of options out there of course.
Both have a self-guided Pompeii tour which is an excellent option if you choose to skip a guided tour.
Be Wary of on-site Touts at Pompeii
Like any popular tourist destination, Pompeii has a couple of pitfalls to watch out for.
First, if you want to take a tour and haven’t pre-booked one, then we’d recommend taking one of the tours with an approved tour guide.
These can be found at Piazza Esedra and Porta Marina, once you have entered Pompeii, after the security checks. These tour guides have official badges issued by the Tourist Board of the Campania Region. If you are unsure if a guide is accredited, check with the ticket office.
Be aware that these guides will most likely need to be paid in cash, and the price of the tour is going to be something you’ll need to discuss with the guide in advance.
When you arrive at Pompeii you will also likely be offered tours by guides outside the gates. These will not be led by Pompeii’s accredited guides, so the quality of the tour is not guaranteed. We’d suggest ignoring these options and heading inside to find a guide if that is of interest.
One other thing to note is that as Pompeii is a popular tourist destination that can be crowded, there is a risk, as with any destination like this, of pickpockets. So just be mindful of your belongings and keep valuables in sight, or safely away in zippered pockets. This is also the case on the train and at the train station if you choose to take public transportation.
We’ve never had an issue in Italy, but it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions when traveling anywhere, as you would at home.
Arrive Early and Head to the Back
Pompeii is a popular destination, and as such it can get quite busy. In addition, there is limited shade on site, and in the summer months particularly it can get very hot on site.
All this means that for the best experience we recommend arriving early in the day if you can. If you are planning on taking a tour, book it for earlier in the day. If you are planning to guide yourself, plan out your route so you head away from the entrance first, and work your way back towards it.
Many visitors only visit the major sights, many of which are located not too far from the entrance areas, particularly Porta Marina. Tours groups also follow similar routes. So if you want a less crowded experience, identify a few sights that you are interested in that are off the beaten path, and head to those first.
Bring a Water Bottle
We mentioned this already in the “what to pack for Pompeii” section of this guide, but we think it is worth repeating. Pompeii gets incredibly hot in the summer months and there is not much shade.
There are lots of free drinking water fountains across the site, so bring a water bottle and stay hydrated for free as you wander!
Escape the Crowds at Pompeii
Pompeii is a hugely popular attraction, and as a result it can be busy. The site has a limit of 15,000 visitors at any one time, but despite the site being quite large people tend to head to a handful of locations such as the Forum, Brothel, and Bath houses, meaning it can feel more crowded than it is.
Here are some tips for escaping the crowds at Pompeii.
Visit at a quieter time of the week or year. Peak season in Italy is generally from May through August, with weekends being busier than weekdays. If you can’t avoid visiting in high season, try visiting on a week day if possible.
Head to a quieter part of the site if you can, away from the groups. Most tours follow a similar route to a handful of highlights, and if you head to the less popular areas you can find yourself wandering almost deserted streets, even at a busy time of year
Use a quieter gate. Many people enter through the Porta Marina as it’s next to the train station. The Anfiteatro gate tends to be quieter, and brings you in right next to the Amphitheater as well, from where you can explore the site at your leisure
Attractions Near Pompeii
Pompeii is one of the most popular attractions in the Naples area, but it is by no means the only attraction in the area! Here are some other attractions in the general area to consider adding to your itinerary.
Herculaneum – the other well-excavated town that was buried by the Vesuvius eruption is Herculaneum. This is closer to Naples, and also easily accessible by the Circumvesuviana train service. It’s a smaller site but as it was a wealthy seaside resort, it has a high density of luxurious dwellings. It is usually quieter than Pompeii, and some tours like this one visit both.
Mount Vesuvius – the volcano which caused all the trouble is still active and still posing a threat to the millions of people who live in the area. It’s a dominant part of the skyline, and you can head all the way up to the summit to peer into the steaming crater and hike around the rim. There’s a small fee to visit the park, and it can be reached by public transport or on a guided tour like this.
Amalfi Coast – one of the most popular and spectacular regions of Italy, the 50km long Amalfi Coast is right next to Pompeii. Gorgeous seaside towns like Positano and Sorrento cling to the dramatic coastline. It’s well worth spending a few days here if you can. Alternatively, you can get a taste of what’s on offer by taking a tour which includes the Amalfi Coast like this.
Naples – the capital city of the region, Naples tends to divide visitor opinion. It can be crowded, and chaotic yes, but it’s also home to amazing food and numerous attractions. Pompeii visitors should definitely take the time to visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which has the majority of the best preserved artefacts from Pompeii available for viewing.
Capri – a popular island for a day trip (although stay overnight if you can to avoid the crowds!), Capri can be visited by ferry from both Naples and Sorrento. It’s a beautiful island with a lot to see, but it can get incredibly crowded in the summer months.
Of course, there is much more to see in this area, but this should give you an idea of what is on offer in the area around Pompeii!
Mount Vesuvius
Where to Stay Near Pompeii
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Pompeii, you have quite a few options. You can stay close to the site, or you could stay in nearby Sorrento or Naples.
It’s also possible to visit Pompeii as a day trip from Rome, but we’ll focus on closer accommodation for this part of the guide. See our guide to spending 3 days in Rome for Rome accommodation options.
Pompeii Ruins De Charme B&B – Literally across the road from the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance this popular B&B offers air-conditioned rooms with breakfast included. Rooms also have a kitchen and dishwasher if you prefer to cook for yourself. Parking is available for a fee.
Hotel Forum – also just next to the Piazza Anfiteatro entrance, this is a well-reviewed 4* hotel offering free private parking, air-conditioned en-suite rooms and a restaurant. Breakfast is available.
Habita79 Pompeii – just a few minutes walk from the Anfiteatro entrance, this 4* hotel offers en-suite air conditioned rooms as well as an on-site spa and wellness studio. Breakfast is available. Note there’s no on-site parking.
Agora Hostel – five minutes walk from the Anfiteatro entrance to Pompeii, this well rated hostel offers great value private and shared rooms with air conditioning. There’s a bar and coffee house on site but no dining or parking available.
La Ferrovia Guesthouse Sorrento – found just next to Sorrento train station, this guesthouse offers private en-suite air-conditioned rooms with coffee makers. Paid parking is available nearby but there’s no on-site restaurant
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria Sorrento – if you’re looking for a 5* luxury experience in Sorrento, this is the hotel to head for. Expect spectacular coastal views, a beautiful garden, lovely rooms, and two restaurants to choose from.
Of course, there are a great many more options to choose from! We recommend looking on booking.com for everything from hotels to guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels and apartments.
We use them for our booking accommodation for travel all over the world and love how easy it makes it to filter and find the right property for our budget and requirements.
Well, that finished up our guide to visiting Pompeii! It’s just a small part of our content on Italy and Europe, which we hope you will find useful when planning your trip.
Here are some of those guides, as well as links to third party resources we recommend.
If you’re looking for a physical (or Kindle!) guidebook, we recommend the latest edition of Rick Steves Italy guide, which has lots of practical information to help you make the most of your stay
And that’s it! As always, we hope you found this guide useful, and if you have any questions or comments about visiting Pompeii, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll answer as soon as we can.
