Wondering what to wear to Pompeii? In this guide we will tell you what to wear to this UNESCO World Heritage Site whether you are traveling in Winter, Summer, Spring or Fall.
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What to wear to Pompeii
Before we get onto what to wear to Pompeii specifically we thought it would be a good idea to say what Pompeii is and the conditions you can expect.
Pompeii today is an archaeological marvel that was created after the city was destroyed by the nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79CE.
The ash that fell of the city and inhabitants in the aftermath of the eruption caused the city to preserved almost perfectly which is what people come to see today.
It is easily accessible from Naples but also a good day trip from the Amalfi Coast from places such as Positano too.
So what do you need to consider wearing to this amazing archaeological site.
Considerations for what to wear in Pompeii
There is no dress code for visiting Pompeii like there is in some other Italian attractions such as the Pantheon and the Vatican City, however there are a few things you need to consider when considering your Pompeii outfit.
Heat
Pompeii in Summer can be stiflingly hot with very little shade. Therefore when packing for Pompeii in Summer you will want lots of lightweight natural fabrics which are most breathable.
As well as that you will need items for sun protection such as a wide brimmed sunhat and sunglasses as there is very little shade in Pompeii itself.
Terrain
Pompeii is obviously an ancient city, so when you are walking around you will be unsurprised to find cobbles and lots of uneven surfaces. Therefore you need to select your shoes carefully for Pompeii.
What to Wear to Pompeii in Summer
If you are traveling to Pompeii in Summer (i.e. June, July and August) you should consider adding the below to your packing list:
Shorts
As there is no dress code for Pompeii Shorts are perfectly acceptable in Summer. This is always my go to as they are comfortable for walking in and also will help keep you cool.
Linen Trousers
If you don’t like shorts, then I would recommend a pair of trousers over a long skirt as these are easier to walk in.
And given the heat in Naples in summer something loose and lightweight is best. Linen is a great choice for Pompeii in Summer.
T Shirt / Tank Top
A T shirt or tank top is perfect for the summer months and as there is no dress code like there is at Italian churches, tank tops and bare shoulders are also acceptable.
However having said that, I would remind you that the sun is very strong in Naples in Summer and shoulders can get very easily burnt.
If you do decide on a tank top over a t shirt be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen.
Hat
As there is very little shade at Pompeii
Sunglasses
Again there is little shade in Pompeii so you will want sunglasses with you whatever time of year you visit.
And if you are visiting other regions of Italy in Summer be sure to check out our other Italian summer packing guides:
- what to wear to Venice in summer
- What to wear to Italy in August
- What to wear to Rome in August
- What to wear to Cinque Terre
What to Wear to Pompeii in Winter
Jeans
Whenever I visit in Winter (this is counter as December, January and February in the Naples area) I always choose to wear jeans. I don’t find it warm enough for shorts or thinner clothing personally.
T Shirt
Layers are key to your Pompeii Winter outfit. We recommend a t shirt as your base layers and a
Hoodie and /or Jacket
for your top layer. Depending on the temperature and weather on they day you are visiting will depend whether you need both the hoodie and jacket.
I would advise packing a waterproof jacket if possible in case you visit Pompeii on a rainy day.
And if you are visiting other regions of Italy in Winter be sure to check out our other Italian summer packing guides:
Best Shoes for Pompeii
The truth is that although there are lots of uneven surfaces in Pompeii, you will not be required to wear hiking shoes or sandals.
However I would recommend a shoe with good ankle and arch support as opposed to something flimsy like a flip flop.
Whenever we go to Pompeii we always choose to wear a sneaker as this works on the uneven surfaces even when slippery after rain.
What Else to Pack for Pompeii
On top of what to wear for Pompeii, you need to consider adding the below to your Pompeii packing list.
Reusable Water Bottle
Pompeii is very open with little amenities in the site itself. Therefore we recommend packing a reusable water bottle with you to make sure you stay hydrated.
Sunscreen
The sun is strong in Naples and and therefore you should have plenty of sunscreen with you no matter the time of year you travel to Pompeii.
FAQs about Pompeii Attire
What to wear to Herculaneum
Pompeii is not the only ash ruins in the Naples area. THe other archaeological that is worth visiting is Herculaneum.
Herculaneum is just as well preserved as Pompeii, however is not as famous and therefore does not get quite so many visitors.
If you plan to visit both Pompeii and Herculaneum it is worth noting that the conditions are very similar and therefore you can wear the same outfit to both of these amazing sites.
And if you are visiting the Naples region you may also be interested in reading our other Italian packing guides for the area:
Have you visited Pompeii? We would love to know what you wore and if there is anything else that you would add to this Pompeii packing list.