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Pick up your Free Map and Guide book from the Tourist Information office (next to the ticket office). During peak times, they do run out, so at the very least, print out a map ahead of time.
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Visit the indoor exhibits on your way out, when the sun is at its meanest. I would prefer to visit these beforehand, but in summer, you’ll appreciate the cool break.
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Get there early before it gets too crowded and too hot. You can also buy your tickets before you go.
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Be Comfortable- Make sure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes as there are lots of cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
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Strollers and Prams- There is an all-abilities route marked on the map- which would also be stroller friendly. That said it has a lot of cobblestones.
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Be Sun Smart- Bring sunscreen and hats
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Bring Snacks- Bring snacks and possibly lunch for the kids. There is only one food place on site. It is a cafeteria and cafe. We found the food tasty, but it became quite busy. If you prefer to use the café, then I suggest going in for an early lunch. There are several cafes outside the entrance for before or after your visit (you are not allowed to exit and reenter). About 500 meters down from the Porta Marina Entrance (main entrance), there is a Carrefour supermarket on Via Plinio.
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Bring Water bottles (for parents too). While there are some random water taps around the site, they looked quite dated, so we brought our own water.
Pompeii with Kids
Take it like an Espresso - Short and Sweet
Plan before you go. I am going to be honest. In summer, it’s really hot, crowded, dusty, and uncomfortable. We went mid-October and it was still hot. Pompeii with kids is like this- see EVERYTHING and everyone is exhausted (including you) and completely over it. You may hear tantrums. They might not even be from the kids. Just kidding. But this place, while amazing, is also overwhelming. SO, like the title, plan ahead, see your priority places, and leave while everyone is happy.
Finally, enjoy everything you get to see! The history of Pompeii is amazing and seeing Mt. Vesuvius in the background is awe-inspiring. Hopefully, with these tips you can fully enjoy your time in Pompeii. And, if you loved the Scavi di Pompei, then you might want to visit Herculaneum (Ercolano) and Naples National Archaeological Museum.