Summer escape to Napoli and Pompei
Frecciarossa Trip from Rome to Napoli
We hopped aboard a Frecciarossa high-speed train (~280 km/h), a comfy 1 h 10 min dash south. No flights meant no stress—and we saved cash, too. The sleek carriages and scenic route were a perfect kickoff.
Napoli Centrale – First Impressions of the City
Napoli Centrale welcomed us with its bustling energy. I captured a great shot of the station—teeming with locals and tourists, suitcases, pizza slices, and a hum that felt like the heartbeat of Naples.
Ponte nord di Bagnoli – A Sea-Side Swim
We ventured to Ponte nord di Bagnoli, where we took an impromptu swim in the warm sea. Water was warm but what cought my attention more was the long pier which in the past served to nearby factory. It was worthy to climb up and take a walk and talk to locals.
Picturesque Streets of Quartieri Spagnoli – Our Home Base
We stayed in Quartieri Spagnoli, tucked into its narrow alleys and vibrant facades. The neighborhood buzzed with local life—laundry lines, espresso bars, and spontaneous laughter around every corner.
Castel Sant’Elmo + Funicular – Height & Descent
One afternoon we hiked up to Castel Sant’Elmo, enjoying sweeping city views. The descent on the funicular was effortless—and scenic—a perfect contrast to the climb up.
Day 2: Pompei Day Trip from Napoli Centrale
Bright and early we caught the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale to Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri (35 min, €3 each way). It was part commuter ride, part time machine—delivering us straight to the ruins.
Inside Pompeii, we wandered the Forum, admired the amphitheater, and took in haunting plaster casts at the House of the Faun and Villa of the Mysteries. It was surreal to imagine life here before Vesuvius. Tip: bring water and comfy shoes—you’ll need them!
Last Day: Napoli City Centre & Local Eats
Back in Naples, we spent our final day wandering the historic city centre—sampling pizza at tiny pizzerías, sipping espresso in sunlit piazze, and browsing local markets. My favorites? Fritto misto, sfogliatelle, and a crisp local beer by the waterfront. Sunlit, salty, and soul-healing.
Cherry on Top: FlixBus Rescue After a Strike
We were all set to return to Rome by train—but a sudden national rail strike hit, cancelling services between Naples and Rome on our return date. No high-speed Frecciarossa or Italo for us that afternoon.
Instead, we scrambled and scored FlixBus tickets straight to Rome’s airport. The ride took roughly 3 h 30 min. It may have been an unexpected twist, but fun in its own way—like a real‑time adventure. But luckily we arrived on time and even had few drinks before our flight :)
Final Thoughts
Three days, zero flights, maximum charm—and a bonus bus trip for story points. From Frecciarossa speed to sea swims, Castel views to archaeological awe, this trip had it all. If you're craving a short Italian escape blending city energy, history, and easy coastal vibes—Napoli and Pompei deliver every time.