Visiting Pompeii after sunset is a truly unforgettable experience. From late June throughout July, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii will open its gates in the evening, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the ancient city in a unique atmosphere, away from the daytime heat.
Evening openings are scheduled on June 25, 27 and 28, and July 2, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 16, 17, 18, 22, 24, 25, 26 and 27.
The evening route includes the Amphitheatre and the Palestra Grande, where visitors can enjoy a fascinating combination of archaeology, history and authentic local food and wine experiences.
Explore the Exhibition on the AD 79 Eruption
During your visit, you can explore the permanent exhibition housed beneath the porticoes of the Palestra Grande, dedicated to the dramatic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
The exhibition tells the story of Pompeii's final hours through archaeological artefacts, organic remains and the famous plaster casts of the victims, offering an engaging journey into one of the most significant events in Roman history.
The exhibition can be visited independently with a special evening admission ticket costing €5. Tickets are available online through Vivaticket or at the Piazza Anfiteatro ticket office. Standard discounts and free admission policies apply.
Opening hours are from 9:00 pm to 11:30 pm, with the last admission at 11:00 pm.
Guided Tours with Archaeologists
Visitors wishing to learn more about the eruption and the exhibition can join a guided tour led by professional archaeologists and ancient history experts from Le Nuvole.
Tours begin at 9:30 pm, last approximately 45 minutes, and are limited to 25 participants.
The guided tour costs €8 per person, in addition to the park admission ticket. Advance booking is required through the Pompeii Children's Museum website.
Enjoy an Aperitif in the Heart of Ancient Pompeii
After exploring the exhibition, visitors can relax in the beautiful gardens of the Palestra Grande while enjoying an aperitif featuring local products, prepared by Chora.
For an even more memorable experience, guided visits to the ancient vineyard of the House of the Open-Air Triclinium are also available, including wine tastings.
These special experiences allow visitors to discover how vines were cultivated in Roman times and compare ancient winemaking techniques with modern production methods, thanks to the collaboration with Tenute Capaldo – Feudi di San Gregorio, the Archaeological Park's partner in preserving and enhancing Pompeii's historic vineyards.
Advance booking is required for vineyard tours and wine tastings. Booking at the address
Dinner with a View of Pompeii
To complete the evening, visitors can book dinner or an aperitif on the panoramic terrace of the Casina dell'Aquila Restaurant, overlooking the archaeological site.
Booking at the address
Free Exhibition Access for Concert Ticket Holders
The evening openings coincide with the concerts of BOP – Beats of Pompeii, held at the Amphitheatre of the Archaeological Park.
Visitors holding a concert ticket can enjoy free access to the exhibition at the Palestra Grande before the performance begins. They may also book a special guided tour at 8:00 pm for €8 per person.
Why Visit Pompeii at Night?
The evening openings offer a completely different way to experience one of Italy's most famous archaeological sites. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and the magical atmosphere created by the evening light make this a perfect opportunity to discover Pompeii from a new perspective.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore the ancient city once again, an evening visit combines archaeology, history, local wines and traditional flavours in one unforgettable experience.
Source: Pompeii Archaeological Park
If you would like to book a traditional daytime guided tour with an expert, licensed guide, you can find various options here >>