When I was growing up, I wanted to be an archeologist. I loved history (and still do), and the thought of uncovering temples and tombs in jungles excited me. I used to read books on Greek and Roman history and have discussions with my history teacher, even as young as 13. In short, I was a huge geek from the get-go.
Being such a huge history geek, visiting Pompeii, the city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, has always been high on my list of things to do.
When the volcano erupted, the falling ash came so quickly that it preserved the city just as it was, burying Pompeii in 4–6 meters (13–20 feet) of ash. It’s a city frozen in time.
The earliest settlements in the area date to the 8th century BCE, though most people know Pompeii as the Roman city that it was at the time of its demise. The rich agricultural land combined with its location on important trading routes meant that, over time, Pompeii became a wealthy provincial city. it had a population of over 20,000 people.
The city was also a regional cultural center, with a large amphitheater, forum, public baths, various temples, and an extensive aqueduct system providing clean water. Many of these buildings, including expansive private villas in the surrounding countryside, were buried during Vesuvius’s eruption.
The eruption itself lasted over two days, with the first phase of falling ash and pumice lasting over 18 hours. While the 1,150 bodies discovered is significant, it was only a fraction of the overall population. Most inhabitants likely had a chance to escape during this initial eruptive phase, though the final casualty count remains unknown.
While the eruption was the biggest tragedy of its time, the falling ash also kept the buildings, frescoes streets, pots, and bodies incredibly well preserved. And while there was some looting after the eruption, eventually Pompeii’s location was lost with the passage of time.
It wasn’t until the rediscovery of the nearby town of Herculaneum (buried in the same Vesuvius eruption) that interest was renewed in the area. The first excavations at Pompeii occurred in 1748, with archaeological work continuing to this day. There is still a significant portion of the site that remains unexcavated so who knows what they will discover here in the future!
I’ve traveled the world for a while and have seen plenty of marvelous ruins over the years. But this is one of the best. Even though a lack of upkeep has taken its toll on the site, I still found it a fascinating place to spend the day. My only hope is that the Italian government will get its act together to keep this site from falling into further disrepair.
Located near Naples in Italy, Pompeii takes a full day to see. If you truly want to indulge your inner Indiana Jones and visit every building here, schedule an extra half day. At over 160 acres, it’s a huge site and you could easily spend even more time than that.
I saw a lot on my full day, but there was a lot that I missed. To help you make the most of your visit, here is everything you need to know to visit Pompeii:
The Top 12 Attractions in Pompeii
1. The Brothel
The ancient lupanar (brothel) is a tiny house with stone beds and scenes of the acts customers might pay for. It’s essentially ancient porn, though whether the frescoes served a practical purpose or were merely decoration is unclear.
Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most visited houses in all of Pompeii (it was probably just as popular before the eruption — no pun intended — too). It’s the largest of the pleasure houses uncovered in Pompeii (so far) and so historians think it was the city’s main brothel. After all, the Romans did enjoy their…rest and relaxation.
2. The Forum Baths
Located near the forum (the main public space), these baths are incredibly well preserved. You can peek inside the wall to see how they heated the baths back when they were still in use. Their innovation is incredibly impressive, and it’s not hard to picture the baths as they were.
While the forum baths are the smallest of the various bath ruins in Pompeii, they are arguably the most elegant. There were separate areas for men and women, including separate entrances. The bath not only had hot baths but cold and tepid baths as well.
3. The Villa of the Mysteries
Located outside the main area, the frescoes here are amazingly well preserved in their full vibrant color. In fact, they’re some of the best examples of 1st-century Roman painting. The frescoes seem to depict a woman entering into the initiations for a Greco-Roman mystery cult, hence the name the villa is known by today.
The villa, which is on the outskirts of Pompeii proper, was excavated long after the rest of the city (excavation of the villa began in 1909). Since it’s a bit of a walk, not many people come here either, giving you the place virtually to yourself.
4. The Forum
The most crowded place in Pompeii, the forum is located right near the main gate. It was the main center of life in Pompeii, the cultural and civic nerve of the city. Any significant religious or commercial events would occur here; it was essentially the main square and heart of the city. When you wander around here, you can really get a sense for what life in Pompeii was like.
5. The Stabian Baths
Another well-preserved bath, this one is the oldest in Pompeii. It also has a slightly bigger chamber and sees a whole lot fewer crowds. You can also see some preserved bodies here, which is unsettling (though you’ll get used to it the more you wander the ruins).
The bath area also had a gym and workout area (for wrestling, as well) and a large, almost Olympic-sized, swimming pool.
6. House of the Small Fountain
A beautiful house with a large back room, wonderful frescoes, and a beautiful mosaic fountain. Almost all of the rooms lead to the central atrium and you can see that the house was owned by someone who was wealthy.
The sloped roof was used to collect rainwater and doubled as a fountain, a great example of innovation at the time.
7. House of the Faun
This is the biggest house in Pompeii and gets its name from the statue in the front courtyard. Built in the 2nd century BCE, there’s a large courtyard in the back where you can also find a very detailed mosaic of a battle scene.
It’s one of the most complete surviving examples of a wealthy and luxurious private residence from the time — even better preserved than many sites in Rome itself!
8. Garden of the Fugitives
Located in the back of Pompeii, this old vineyard has preserved casts of people who didn’t make it out of the city alive. There are 13 bodies in the garden, frozen in a grotesque and agonizing tableau that reflects the horrible final moments of the city. It’s both incredibly interesting and unsettling at the same time.
9. House of Venus in the Shell
Another place located far away from the crowds, this house has a colorful fresco to the goddess Venus. There are also a few gardens here and a detailed statue of Mars.
The house was actually under renovation when Vesuvius erupted and was also damaged during the bombing in World War II (though it was restored in the 1950s).
10. The Amphitheater
This huge amphitheater is where the citizens of Pompeii held the ancient games that entertained them. It’s a quiet place to walk around and given its position at the far end of Pompeii, you’ll see very few people there, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours.
Built in 70 BCE, it was one of the first amphitheaters to be built of stone. Today, it is the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater in existence.
11. Great Palestra
Right next to the amphitheater, the “great palace” was an exercise park and place for youth groups. It was used for sports and games, and there was also a swimming pool here as well.
It’s another a great place to escape the crowds as not so many tourists make it here.
12. House of Sallustio
This is one of the oldest houses in Pompeii, with sections dating to the 4th century BCE. It was most likely an elite residence, owing to its location and size. The upper floors may have even been used as an inn at some point in its history.
There’s a small garden and covered porch in the back, a fresco of the goddess Diana, a bakery, and even a little food shop in the front. During World War II, a bomb partially destroyed the back walls, though these were restored in the 1970s.
12 Tips for Visiting Pompeii
Here are 10 super important things to remember when visiting Pompeii:
1. Watch out for closings – Not all the attractions are open, even if they say they are. I found a number of places you were supposed to be able to get into closed. They even started closing one while I was looking around. Check the hours when you arrive, since information online might not be accurate.
2. Start in the back – To avoid the crowds, move from the farthest temples toward the front. The majority of people stick to the center of Pompeii, and you can visit the main area when the crowds have gone by late afternoon.
3. Don’t do the audio guide – I bought the audio tour and found it to be a waste of time. The free book they give you includes enough information. The audio guide doesn’t explain much more.
4. Limited time? Do a guided tour – I listened to a number of guided tours while I was walking around and I was impressed with their knowledge. Plus, I like being able to ask questions that can further explain things. The guided tours simply take you to the highlights, unless you do a personal tour.
5. Bring lots of water – During the summer, it gets scorchingly hot. Bring lots of water and some sunscreen to avoid getting burnt. A hat is a good idea too.
6. Pack snacks – There are a few cafes and snack bars here, but if you wander far into the ruins, you might not be near them for a while. It’s best to bring some food with you for the day’s explorations.
7. Take the train – This is the easiest way to visit. Just make sure you go to Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri station as the main Pompeii station only takes you to the modern city.
8. Watch out for scams and pickpockets – As Pompeii is such a popular attraction (over 2.5 million people visit each year), there are many people who try to take advantage of visitors. Common scams include trying to sell fake (or overpriced) train and bus tickets or saying that the entrance is closed (but they can get you in). Also watch out for pickpockets around the entrances and train station.
9. Don’t bring a large backpack – Security likely won’t let you bring in a large rucksack, so only come with a smaller purse or day bag.
10. Choose your tour carefully – If you’re going to do a tour, do an official tour from inside the gate. There are plenty of tours offered outside of the gate, but they are much larger and not as good (though they are cheaper). I suggest going with Take Walks. I always learn a ton on their tours.
11. Wear sturdy footwear – The ruins are actually quite spread out and you’ll be on your feet all day. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (no flip flops).
12. Buy tickets in advance – To beat the line, buy your tickets online in advance. Pompeii can get super busy, meaning long lines when they open. Avoid the hassle and get your tickets ahead of time.
How to Get to Pompeii
The train is the best way to get to Pompeii if you’re coming from Naples. To get here, catch the Sorrento Circumvesuviana train from Naples and get off at Pompeii. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs around 3.50 EUR. The site is just 5 minutes from the train station.
If you’re coming by car, it’s about a 30-minute drive. Note that there is no free parking lot for the site, though there are many paid municipal and private parking lots nearby.
Starting in 2025, the site has put restrictions on daily visitors to help preserve the site:
From 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, a maximum of 15,000 admissions (subdivided into 12,000 for Pompeii express and 3,000 for Pompei +)
From 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm, a maximum of 5,000 admissions?(subdivided into 3,000 for Pompeii express and 2,000 for Pompei +)
From April 1st to October 31st, the entire site is open from 9am-7pm (last entrance at 5:30pm). From November 1-March 31, the site is open from 9am-5pm (last entry at 3:30pm). However, each individual attraction has its own opening and closing times, with last entrances starting 1-1.5 hours before closing time of the entire site. For updated hours, check pompeiisites.org.
FAQ on Visiting Pompeii
How long do you need in Pompeii? You’ll want to spend a full day here if you want to see everything. If you just want to see the main sites, 3–4 hours will suffice.
Do you have to pay to visit Pompeii? Yes! Tickets are 18 EUR per person for the basic ticket (this gets you the main sites) and 22 EUR for the comprehensive, all access ticket.
Should I book a guided tour? If you don’t have a guidebook or if you want a deeper, more insightful visit then getting a guide is a good idea. There is minimal signage here so you’ll get much more from your visit if you have a guide.
You can either book a guide on arrival (you’ll see a bunch hanging around the entrance) or go with a reputable company like Take Walks. They have a comprehensive and informative 3-hour tour of the site as well as a full-day tour that includes Pompeii and a drive along the Amalfi Coast. Tickets are 59 EUR for the three-hour tour and 189 EUR for the full-day tour (including tickets that let you skip the line).
Do you need to book tickets in advance for Pompeii? Tickets can be bought online in advance, which includes access to Pompeii, Oplontis, and Boscoreale. If you’re visiting on a Saturday or public holiday, you must book online in advance.
How many tourists visit Pompeii each year? Pompeii is one of the most popular attractions in Italy, bringing in over 2.5 million tourists each year. It gets busy!
When should I visit Pompeii? The summer offers the best weather, but it is also incredibly hot and busy. Consider visiting in the shoulder season (May or October) in order to beat the crowds and also have cooler weather. But if you are going to visit in the summer, bring sunscreen as the site is very exposed to the sun.
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In the time I was there, I barely scratched the surface of Pompeii — and I filled a whole day! One day, I’d love to go back and visit all the buildings I missed. But then again, I’m a history geek and could spend days upon days among ruins. If you don’t live and breathe history as I do, one day would be enough to see the highlights.
Make sure you move away from the city center to see some of the lesser-known and less crowded sites. Walking among the ruins is an eerie but beautiful feeling.
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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!
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.
If you are planning a road trip to the Basque Country and wonder whether it’s worth including San Sebastián into your itinerary, this post is for you. We recently returned from a three-week to Spain, so in this article I’ll get into the pros and cons of visiting San Sebastián. Based on our experience, there are plenty of good reasons to visit this city, but there are also a few cons which may be a deterrent for you.
San Sebastián-Donostia
But First Things First: where is San Sebastián?
San Sebastián is one of the four main cities in the Basque Country, Spain, next to Bilbao, Santander and Vitoria-Gasteiz, the region’s administrative capital. Officially known by the bilingual name Donostia/San Sebastián (Basque: Donostia, Spanish: San Sebastián), the city lies on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, about 12 miles from the border of Spain and France.
The Pros of Visiting San Sebastián
San Sebastián was once a summer vacation spot for the European elites, and once you see it you’ll understand why.
It’s a Clean and Safe Place to Visit
San Sebastian is generally a very safe city to visit. The crime rate is low in comparison to other cities in Spain. We spent about 5 days in San Sebastián and never felt unsafe, whether it was day time or night time. That being said, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town, where pickpocketing can occasionally occur.
What impressed me most was how clean an well maintained the streets and the buildings are hare. In fact, San Sebastian is famous for its elegant Belle Époque buildings and charming old streets.I
Old Town in the morning
In the heart of San Sebastian is its Old Quarter (Parte Vieja), a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with pintxos bars and local shops. This area which buzzes with activity, especially in the evening when locals and tourists come out for a drink and a bite to eat.
People enjoying a drink in Plaza de la Constitucion
Beautiful Beaches and an Amazing Scenery
The city’s coastline location is a big draw for visitors. It has wide sandy beaches in either direction, while inland it abounds with green forests, high cliffs, and strange rock formations. When visiting San Sebastián you’ll be surprised how green, lush and diverse the landscape is. Even in the midst of summer, when the rest of Europe is baking in a heatwave, the city maintains its verdant color.
Scenic view of San Sebastián
Beach culture is a big thing in San Sebastián because the city is blessed with quite a few nice beaches. The most popular one is La Concha. The other two are Zurriola and Ondaretta.
La Concha Beach
Located in a small bay in the center of the city, La Concha Beach is by far the best in San Sebastián and truly worth visiting. The beach has calm waters, fine golden sand and abundant amenities like sun-beds, umbrellas, showers, lifeguards on duty. Its protected location from the wind make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing and various water sports.
La Concha Beach
Zurriola Beach
Another beautiful beach is Zurriola, located on the other side of the river in the Gros neighborhood. This beach is very popular for surfing, but not so much for swimming because of its strong currents and big waves.
Zuriolla beach in the evening
Exquisite Food
One of the reasons San Sebastian is worth visiting is its food. What makes the food here so special? It’s the ingredients, the fresh seafood, the local produce, and the artisan cheeses they use. The city’s rocky coastline bordered by rolling green hills and farmland, make this area great for fishing, farming, and gardening. The fresh seafood and produce are delivered almost immediately to the world-class restaurants.
Tamboril, one of the Michelin-star restaurants in San Sebastián
San Sebastián has a large number of Michelin-starred restaurants. You practically stumble upon them almost everywhere you go in this city. Some of the most renowned are Casa Unroll (3 Michelin stars), Kokotxa (3 Michelin star), Mirador de Ulia (3 Michelin star), Ikaitz (2 Michelin Stars), and Tamboril (1 Michelin stars).
Pintxos, small snacks characteristic to the Basque Country
But the city is especially famous for its pintxos (pronounced pin-chos), which are small snacks typically served in bars. These delicious bites are a huge part of Basque culture. You’ll find the best pintxo bars in the old town, especially the streets around the Basilica. And while strolling the old town, don’t miss the traditional Basque cheesecake, which is quite different from the one we have here, in the USA.
It’s Home to the Oldest European Culture
The Basques have one of Europe’s oldest and most unique cultures. Their language and traditions are very different from the rest of Spain, so there is a good reason why they consider themselves a distinct cultural group. They cherish their unique language, music and folklore and try to preserve them the best they can. Even their dances set them apart from the rest of Spain or Europe.
Locals dressed in folk Basque costumes performing a dance
If you want to experience the traditional Basque music and dances, San Sebastián is the place to go. Basque dances are performed on the old town streets, in plazas or public places at during all the festivities and celebrations in the Basque Country. In June, when we visited the city, they had traditional Basque dances every evening in Plaza de la Constitución.
Lots of Places to Walk or Hike
If you are looking to spend some time outdoors, San Sebastián has plenty of delightful places to stretch your legs.
Mount Urgull
Overlooking the Old Quarter, the summit of Monte Urgull and the 40 foot tall Christ statue at the top are visible from many points in the city. One of the nicest things to do in San Sebastián hike to the very top of the mountain. It’s really a nice walk that goes only in the shade, with breathtaking views. While the paths are nicely paved, there are some steep parts as well as stairs in some places.
The walls of Castelo de la Mota at the top of Mount Urgull
This is a great place to observe the city and the sea. The different paths around the area open up to many scenic lookout points that are hidden between leafy patches. At the very top of the mountain you’ll see upclose the Sagrado Corazon statue (the statue of Christ) as well as the fortifications and cannons of the Castelo de la Mota.
Christ Statue at the top of Mount Urgull
La Concha Promenade (Paseo de la Concha)
Next to La Concha Beach there is a long promenade that follows the bay, bordered by a wrought-iron balustrade. This is a great place for walking, cycling, or people-watching. The lively promenade offers great views of La Concha Bay and Santa Clara Island. It also passes by opulent looking buildings, such as the emblematic Londres Hotel and Miramar Palace.
Paseo de la Concha
Don’t miss the famous Clocks scattered along the promenade, which the locals use as meeting points. Also located on the promenade is the famous thermal springs spa of La Perla. This is the only center of thalassotherapy in town, reminiscent of the time when San Sebastián was a spa city.
Mount Igueldo
Located on the western side of La Concha Beach is Monte Igueldo, a leafy mountain that features a funicular train, great views and even a roller coaster. As you ascend the mountain on the funicular, you will enjoy the stunning panoramic view of San Sebastián. Once at the top, you can go on a roller coaster and a few other amusement park rides that operate at the top of the mountain.
Spectacular view from the top of Mt. Igueldo
Having been up to both peaks in San Sebastián, I think visiting Mt. Igueldo is truly worth it for the views, which are absolutely amazing. Also, if you don’t want to spend money on the funicular (€2.80) you can also hike to the top.
The funicular at Mt. Igueldo
It Has Interesting Museums
If you have time for museums, you’ll find quite a few worth visiting in Donostia-San Sebastian. Like Eurika! Science Museum, San Telmo Museum, which is housed in an ancient convent in San Telmo, Museum of Sacred Art, or History House in the Castillo de la Mota at the top of Monte Urgull, where you can find out about the history of San Sebastián.
Museums in Donostia-San Sebastian
Cons of Visiting San Sebastián
After listing so many good reasons to visit San Sebastián, you may be wondering what could be the cons. Well, like I promised in my title, this will be an unbiased review of San Sebastián where I’ll give both the good and the bad and let you decide whether it’s worth visiting or not.
The Weather is Totally Unpredictable
If you decide to visit San Sebastián, be prepared for rain. You may like the lush, green vegetation and cooler temperatures during the summer, but there is a reason for this. San Sebastián receives more rainfall than almost anywhere else in Spain, with an average 59 inches of rain per year. The rainiest months are October to January, but it rains often and during every season. Even in summer.
Rainy day in June in San Sebastián
You can count that on one of the summer months will be a rainy mess, but the other two will usually be warm and sunny. The problem is you never know which month will be the rainy one. And when it rains, it rains! If you are lucky, it’s just a short shower. But sometimes it rains for a few hours and often it rains for days in a row.
It’s Expensive
Generally, San Sebastián is rated as a moderately expensive city, but that was not our experience. When compared to other European city, San Sebastián is among the top 15% most expensive cities in Europe.
They say that on average, a visitor can spend about $150 per day when visiting San Sebastian, while a couple would spend an average of $267 per day. Of course, prices will vary a lot based on the travel style and length of trip. But if you stay at moderately priced hotels, eat at affordable restaurants, and use public transportation, this is what you can expect to pay.
However, if you want to go to a couple of Michelin restaurants, stay in the center of the city where you can walk practically everywhere, or rent a car for day trips, the price per day will jump considerably.
It Has Big Crowds
San Sebastián is a popular beach town with a beautiful seashore and a charming old town. The problem is that it’s not very big, so if you plan to visit it during the summer time, when the weather is nice and your chances of getting rain are slimmer, you’ll be faced with big crowds. That’s especially a problem at La Concha Beach, or when you try to get a seat at one of the bars or restaurants in the Old Quarter.
Big crowds in Donostia-San Sebastián
Streets will also be very crowded and sometimes you’ll have to walk almost shoulder to shoulder with other people.
Unfriendly Locals
We travel extensively through Europe and by comparison I can safely say that locals in the Basque region aren’t exactly friendly, or willing to help. They seem rather impatient and uninterested in you, as a tourist. This is especially true for San Sebastián, which sees a lot of visitors every year.
We had quite a few experiences within the five days we’ve spent there and in almost all circumstances we received average or poor service. Waiters who wouldn’t show up to take the order, or were obviously annoyed by merely asking for another drink. Shopkeepers who wouldn’t acknowledge our presence and would continue their private conversation. Hotel receptionists who were very arrogant and patronizing, and so on.
Who is San Sebastian Best Suited For?
San Sebastián is a perfect blend of natural landscapes and city attractions. Home to the world’s finest food, wine, art, and so much more! Because of its luxurious appeal, the city has always been a retreat for royalty and European aristocracy, which is why I believe it’s perfect for travelers looking for relaxation, culture and gastronomy.
It is also a great city for couples looking for a romantic getaway or in search of a serene seaside retreat.
Visiting San Sebastián
In short, if you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, surfing, and water sports in San Sebastián. And if you like to discover new dishes and wines, you’ll be in Heaven here!
A Final Note
So, is San Sebastián worth visiting? After reading both the pros and cons, I’m pretty sure your answer will be yes! In San Sebastián you’ll experience some of the best food in Spain, enjoy gorgeous scenery, visit beautiful museums and learn a few things about the oldest culture in Europe.
If this is your first time in Mykonos and you are not sure whether it’s worth visiting, keep reading. You may have heard a lot about this island and maybe not all of it was good. Yes, Mykonos is one of Greece’s most popular islands, yet people have very mixed feelings about it. Some say it’s crowded, touristy and overhyped. Others say it’s their favorite Greek island for its beauty, activities and nightlife. So who is right?
Mykonos
Like with everything in life, attractiveness depends on the perspective of the beholder; meaning that beauty is subjective and influenced by individual experiences and cultural norms. What one person finds attractive, another might not. That being said, there are both good and bad things to be said about Mykonos and once you are aware of them you can decide whether the island it’s worth visiting or not.
How did Mykonos gain its fame?
Mykonos is a very small, barren island with a total area of around 85.5 square kilometers (33 square miles) and a population of only 10 thousand permanent residents. Landscape wise, it doesn’t even compare to other lush Greek islands like Crete, Kefalonia, or Corfu. Then why is it so popular?
Back in the 1950’s Mykonos was a simple fishing island where the most common sights were fishing boats in the harbor and handcrafts.
However that changed in the 1960s, when celebrities like Jackie Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis began frequenting the island. That helped Mykonos establish itself as a luxurious destination with a cosmopolitan vibe, a vibrant nightlife and a gay-friendly scene.
St. John Hotel & Resort
Mykonos was successful at attracting wealthy entrepreneurs because the island felt like it had no rules. More and more tourists who wanted to escape their work-dominated routines and enjoy a bohemian lifestyle started flocking here, so Mykonos became their paradise.
What is worth visiting on Mykonos Island
Although it’s not one of my favorite Greek islands, Mykonos has quite a few nice places to visit.
Mykonos Town
The biggest attraction on the island is Mykonos Town (a.k.a Chora), a charming maze of narrow alleys with blue-white houses, colorful bougainvilleas, and a great array of small luxury boutiques and fancy restaurants. When visiting Mykonos Town, you shouldn’t miss:
The Iconic Windmills
These are especially beautiful at sunset. The whitewashed, rounded windmills with pointed roofs and small windows were once an important source of income for the island’s inhabitants.
The windmills in Mykonos town
The Church of Panagia Paraportiani
This unique church located in the Kastro neighborhood is one of the most photographed churches in Greece. The special thing about the church is that it consists of five small churches, built one on top or next to the other. The five churches were not constructed at once, but gradually over the centuries.
Panagia Paraportiani
Little Venice Neighborhood
Little Venice is one of the places truly worth visiting on Mykonos island. It is not only pretty and romantic, but also very authentic. The neighborhood is packed with colorful old houses hanging precariously on the edge of the land.
Little Venice neighborhood
Many of these historic homes have been transformed into a variety of cozy restaurants, trendy bars, shops and nightclubs, overlooking the sea.
Matoyianni Street
Matogianni (Matoyianni) is the most popular street in Mykonos for a good reason. What makes it truly unique is its cobblestone ground and white houses. There are beautiful flowers that embellish every corner as you walk by.
Matoyianni Street
But perhaps the biggest attractions on this street are the numerous boutiques and souvenir shops. If you want to go shopping in Mykonos, this is where you’d come.
Old Port of Mykonos
Mykonos has two ports, located about two kilometers apart: The Old Port which serves local boats and the New Port/Tourlos whichserves ferries and all cruise ships that dock in Mykonos. While there is nothing special about the New Port, the Old Port has a lot going for it.
Old Port in Mykonos
Located right in the heart of Mykonos Town, just behind Little Venice, the Old Port is full of life 24 hours a day. This is where you’ll find the traditional fish market as well as numerous shops, bars and restaurants. Around its rocky dock you can still see the traditional wooden vessels used for fishing. The northern part of the Old Port is the spot from where many organized tours and small cruises depart.
Also, don’t miss the seaside promenade lining the historic harbor in Mykonos Town. The walkway starts at the northern edge of the Old Port and continues all the way to the windmills. Walking alongside this promenade is an experience in itself.
Delos Island
If you are a fan of Greek mythology, a visit to the adjacent Delos island is a must and an adventure that you shouldn’t miss if you are in Mykonos. This is a historically significant ancient Greek site where you can explore well-preserved ruins including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Terrace of the Lions, and other important monuments.
Delos Archeological site
Delos is an uninhabited island, so there are no lodging options, no airports and no direct ferries from mainland Greece. The only way to visit it is by booking a ferry from the closest island, which is Mykonos. During the summer months, ferry routes from other nearby islands (Naxos, Paros, Tinos, Syros) are also available.
The Beaches
Mykonos has many beautiful beaches, most of which have easy access, slowly descending water depths and crystal-clear waters. However, none of them compares to the beaches in Ithaca, Zakinthosh, or Crete.
Remote beach in Mykonos
Most of the beaches in Mykonos are very crowded, especially during the high season. But if you hire a boat you can get to some that are absolutely pristine.
Pristine beach in Mykonos
Some of the beaches worth visiting are:
Kalafatis Beach: A family-friendly beach on the southeastern coast of Mykonos
Psarou Beach: A romantic area with a waterfront and lively bars
Platis Gialos: A lively beach with loungers, umbrellas, bars, and restaurants
Super Paradise Beach: A beach known for its parties and crystal-clear blue waters
Restaurant next to the main beach in Mykonos
The Downside of Visiting Mykonos
There are quite a few drawbacks that make Mykonos less desirable than other Greek islands.
The High Costs
On the less positive side, the costs associated with visiting Mykonos are very high. Starting with accommodations and continuing with boat rentals and restaurants, everything is insanely expensive on this island.
Jewelry stores in Mykonos Town
To say nothing about the stores, most of which sell designer clothes, handbags and jewelry at prices that are even higher than the ones you’ll find in the department stores in Paris!
The Barren Landscape
Another disappointment is the island’s landscape, which is relatively flat with few hilly areas and completely barren. It’s mostly rocky, arid terrain with very little vegetation and a lack of rivers. This is a typical feature of the Cycladic islands in Greece. And for this reason, Mykonos is not a hiking friendly destination.
Barren landscape on Mykonos island
The Roads
Roads in Mykonos are narrow and overcrowded with cars, busses, trucks, mopeds and quads. The pavements are either shattered (and often lined with trash) or non-existent. You can also throw potholes into the mix.
The Crowds
Perhaps the most annoying thing in Mykonos are the huge crowds. The island is jam packed with tourists not only during the peak season, but almost throughout the year. We visited late October, which is the end of the shoulder season, and every single day there were 4-5 big cruise ships anchored in the port.
If you consider that each of these cruise ships carries a minimum of 5000 passengers, that means that at least 25,000-30,000 people roam around the small streets of Mykonos town at the same time.
This is in addition to the thousands of tourists that are already on the island and those that arrived daily from the main land in big busses via ferry boats. Overtourism makes it difficult to find a quiet, peaceful spot to relax on the island and will eventually lead to environmental degradation, affecting local ecosystems and local communities.
When should you visit Mykonos?
High season in Mykonos is June to September, so hotel prices are at their highest and the beaches, restaurants and nightclubs are packed. Summer is also party time, so expect concerts and loud music everywhere. Not to mention XLSIOR in August, a five-day clubbing festival that attracts some 30,000 gay revelers!
Shoulder season (April to early June, late September and October) is arguably a more pleasant time to visit. The temperatures are lower while the water is still perfect for swimming. However, don’t expect empty beaches or low accommodation prices.
Visiting Mykonos in October
In winter is too cold for sunbathing and swimming, but that’s the only time of the year when you’ll see empty beaches and plenty of bargain accommodations. The good thing is that many of the restaurants in Mykonos stay open year-round, unlike on other Greek islands. On the less positive side, winter can bring fierce storms and ferries are limited.
How much time should you spend on Mykonos?
We spent 3 full days in Mykonos and felt this was just about the right amount of time for this island. We spent the mornings exploring the beaches and the afternoons visiting the shops, restaurants and bars of Mykonos Town. One afternoon we caught a boat to the sacred island of Delos.
How to get to Mykonos?
There are frequent ferries that connect Mykonos Island with Athens’ ports of Rafina and Piraeus. During the high season the high-speed catamarans link Mykonos with numerous other Cycladic islands, including Santorini and Paros.
Mykonos Airport also has year-round flights between Athens and many European destinations. Even though Mykonos is a small island, I would advise renting a car, moped or ATV to properly explore it.
In Conclusion
Whether Mykonos is worth visiting or not depends entirely on what you’re looking for in a vacation: if you want a vibrant nightlife scene, beautiful resorts, stunning whitewashed houses, and are okay with crowds and high prices, then Mykonos could be a great choice.
Shops in Mykonos
On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, budget-friendly experience, you might want to consider other Greek islands. Although is part of many Greek islands itineraries, Mykonos is considered a very touristy and expensive island. We liked it, but would not consider returning there. There are so many more beautiful islands to visit in Greece.
