Pompeii Tickets — Prices, Booking & Free Entry Days (2026)
Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide
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Pompeii Tickets: Everything You Need to Know
Purchasing the right pompeii city tickets is the first step in planning your visit. Whether you need pompeii ancient city tickets for the ruins alone or a bundled pass, this guide covers all ticket types, discounts, booking options, and money-saving strategies.
Live prices: ticket rates are set by the Archaeological Park and change from time to time, so we don't hard-code them here. Check the current price in the booking box at the top of this page, or see the reference table at the very bottom.
How to Book
Official Website
The most reliable way to book is through the official Pompeii Archaeological Park website (pompeiisites.org). You can select your preferred date, entry time, and entrance (Porta Marina, Piazza Anfiteatro, or Piazza Esedra). A small online booking fee applies.
At the Gate (Pompeii City Entrance)
Tickets can be purchased at the pompeii city entrance ticket offices, but queues can be very long during peak season (April-October), sometimes exceeding 30-60 minutes. This option is not recommended during busy periods.
Authorized Resellers
Several authorized platforms sell Pompeii tickets, often bundled with audio guides, guided tours, or transportation. Prices may be slightly higher than the official rate due to booking fees.
Free Entry: First Sunday (Domenica al Museo)
On the first Sunday of every month, entry to all Italian state museums and archaeological sites — including Pompeii — is completely free. So is pompeii city free? Yes, on these designated Sundays. This is an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious visitors, but be aware that the site will be extremely crowded. No advance booking is available for free Sundays; entry is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Combo Tickets: Pompeii + Herculaneum
The combo ticket covers both Pompeii and Herculaneum and is valid for 48 hours from first use. Think of it as a pompeii city pass that unlocks both sites. It works out cheaper than buying two separate tickets. If you plan to visit both sites — which is highly recommended — the combo ticket is the best value.
Audio Guides and Guided Tours
Audio guides are available for rent at the entrance. They provide narration at key points throughout the site and are available in multiple languages.
Official guided tours are offered in various languages, typically lasting 2-3 hours and covering the major highlights. Group tours are the budget option; private guided tours can be arranged for a small group at a higher rate.
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy the combo ticket if visiting both sites — it's cheaper than two separate tickets
- Visit on a free first Sunday (but expect large crowds)
- Under-18s enter free at all times
- EU citizens aged 18-25 pay a heavily reduced rate — bring valid EU ID
- Download the free MyPompeii app instead of renting an audio guide
- Bring your own water and snacks — on-site prices are high
- Book online to avoid wasting time in ticket queues
Important Notes
- Tickets are timed entries — arrive within your designated time slot
- Last entry is typically 90 minutes before closing time
- Re-entry with the same ticket is not permitted (except the Villa of the Mysteries, which has its own entrance)
- Keep your ticket until you leave — it may be checked
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked at the entrance cloakroom (free service)
Ticket Prices Reference
Note: the Archaeological Park updates these rates from time to time, so treat the table below as a rough guide only. For the exact, current price always use the booking box at the top of this page or the official pompeiisites.org.
| Ticket Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Adult | EUR18 | All visitors aged 25+ |
| EU Citizens (18-25) | EUR2 | Must show valid EU ID |
| Under 18 | Free | All nationalities |
| Pompeii + Herculaneum Combo | EUR22 | Valid 48 hours |
| Special Exhibition | EUR22 | When temporary exhibitions are running |
| First Sunday | Free | First Sunday of each month |
| Disabled visitors | Free | Plus one companion free |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Pompeii tickets cost?
Pompeii sells a standard adult ticket, a reduced-rate ticket for EU citizens aged 18-25, and a combined Pompeii + Herculaneum ticket. Entry is free for all visitors under 18. Prices are set by the Archaeological Park and change from time to time, so check the live rate in the booking box at the top of this page or on the official pompeiisites.org before you go.
Can you get free entry to Pompeii?
Yes. Entry is free on the first Sunday of every month (Domenica al Museo). All visitors under 18 get free entry on any day. Disabled visitors and one accompanying person also enter free.
Should I book Pompeii tickets in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season (April-October). Online booking ensures entry at your chosen time and avoids potentially long queues at the ticket office. Tickets can be purchased on the official Pompeii website or through authorized resellers.
Is there a combo ticket for Pompeii and Herculaneum?
Yes, a combined ticket covers both Pompeii and Herculaneum and is valid for 48 hours. It costs less than buying separate tickets for each site, so it's the best value if you plan to see both.