More about: The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Pompeii
Discover Pompeii in the open air and travel back in time.
Pompeii is a destination to be experienced outdoors. Its open-air ruins, surrounding volcanic landscapes and proximity to the coast make it a perfect place to explore at leisure. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters, so any time of year is ideal for walking its petrified streets, climbing Vesuvius or hiking the Amalfi Coast.
If you want to enjoy Pompeii to the fullest, here are some of the best outdoor activities to do in this fascinating region of Italy.
1. Hiking Mount Vesuvius and panoramic views of the bay.
Mount Vesuvius is the great protagonist of Pompeii's history. This volcano is still active and offers one of the most impressive views of the Bay of Naples. Climbing up to its crater on a hiking trail is a unique experience, where you will feel the force of nature beneath your feet.
The trail ascends through arid landscapes and volcanic rocks until you reach the top, where you can look out over the crater and contemplate the panorama. To walk along Vesuvius is to understand the power of the eruption that, in 79 A.D., changed the history of Pompeii forever.
2. Sunset on Vesuvius with a spectacular panoramic view
If Vesuvius is impressive by day, at sunset it becomes magical. A hike to the volcano late in the day will allow you to watch the sun set over the Bay of Naples, tinting the sky in shades of orange and pink as you enjoy the scenery in a much calmer atmosphere.
In addition to the beauty of the sunset, this tour offers the opportunity to learn about the geology of the volcano and its history with the help of an expert guide. A perfect plan to end the day with an unforgettable view.
3. Amalfi Coast tour to Amalfi and Positano
Just a short drive from Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast is a paradise of cliffs, crystal clear waters and colorful villages. An excursion to Amalfi and Positano will allow you to tour two of Italy's most beautiful towns, strolling through their narrow streets, enjoying their terraces overlooking the sea and bathing on their beaches.
Amalfi, with its majestic cathedral, and Positano, with its hillside houses, are two Mediterranean jewels not to be missed. If you are looking for a relaxing day with dreamlike landscapes, this excursion is perfect for you.
4. Sorrento and Ravello tour to discover the essence of the Mediterranean.
If you want an even more complete experience, you can add Sorrento and Ravello to your tour of the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento, famous for its sea views and limoncello production, is a destination full of Italian charm.
Ravello, on the other hand, is one of the coast's quieter gems, with stunning gardens and lookout points offering some of the best views in the region. This excursion is ideal for those who want to explore the essence of the Amalfi Coast in a single day.
5. Horseback riding along Vesuvius among vineyards and volcanic landscapes.
If you are looking for a different way to tour the area around Pompeii, a horseback ride around Vesuvius is an incredible experience. Riding among vineyards, ancient lava paths and hills overlooking the sea will allow you to see the region from a totally different perspective.
On horseback, the ride becomes a relaxing and special adventure, ideal for both beginners and more experienced riders. In addition, many routes include a stop to taste local wines produced in the fertile volcanic lands.
6. Stroll through the ruins of Pompeii and relive its history.
A trip to Pompeii is not complete without touring its archaeological ruins, one of the best preserved cities of Ancient Rome. Walking among its cobblestone streets, entering the ancient houses and seeing the frescoes and mosaics that still survive is a unique experience.
The Forum, the Amphitheater and the House of the Vettii are just some of the key points of the visit. The best thing about this tour is that everything is outdoors, allowing you to explore at your own pace and soak up the atmosphere of this place frozen in time.
7. Wine tasting in the Vesuvius vineyards and Lacryma Christi tasting.
The volcanic lands of Vesuvius have given rise to some of Italy's most special wines. Very close to Pompeii, there are vineyards where native varieties such as Lacryma Christi are produced, a wine with a history as fascinating as its taste.
Many wineries offer tours among the vineyards, where you can learn about the winemaking process and finish the visit with a tasting. Enjoying a good wine with a view of the volcano is undoubtedly one of the best ways to end the day.
8. A day at the beach in Castellammare di Stabia and its hot springs.
If after so much history and exploration you need a break, the beach at Castellammare di Stabia, just a few kilometers from Pompeii, is the perfect place to relax. Its calm waters and local atmosphere make it an ideal alternative to unwind.
In addition, this destination is famous for its hot springs and its port, from where you can take a boat to explore the coast. A simple but perfect plan to enjoy the sea and the outdoors in this spectacular region of Italy.