Set aside about 4 to 5 hours to fully explore the Pompeii ruins. Although there is a cafeteria inside the ruins, it is recommended you eat before entering the site. The first Sunday of the month allows free entry to Pompeii but note that the site will be very crowded on this day.

To truly appreciate the scale and history of the Pompeii ruins, you should plan to spend at least 4 to 5 hours. Because the site is essentially an entire preserved Roman city, a quick two-hour visit will only allow you to see the Forum and perhaps one or two villas. A half-day (4-5 hours) gives you enough time to walk the ancient cobblestone streets, visit the Amphitheatre, snoop through the Lupanare (brothel), and explore well-preserved homes like the Villa dei Misteri. If you are a history buff or an archaeology enthusiast, it is easily possible to spend a full 7-hour day there, as about one-third of the city is still being unearthed. Regardless of your timeframe, it is highly recommended to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the site offers very little shade against the intense Italian sun.