Pompeii’s ruins are a perfect canvas for full-day tours—offering a chance to walk through ancient streets, admire well-preserved buildings, and imagine Roman life nearly 2,000 years ago. While wandering independently is rewarding, joining a guided tour adds rich stories and insider knowledge. We particularly love tours that combine Pompeii with nearby gems like the Amalfi Coast or Mount Vesuvius, such as the Full Day Private Tour of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, which combines stunning coastal scenery with a deep dive into the ruins. The variety of options means you can tailor your experience—whether it’s a private vehicle, expert guide, or special focus like wine tasting or Herculaneum.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the 14 best full-day tours in Pompeii, from private explorations to group excursions, with itineraries that blend history, scenery, and local flavor. Whether you want a quick overview or an immersive deep dive, there’s a perfect option here.
1. Full Day Private Tour of Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast
At number 1, this private tour combines a 2-hour visit to Pompeii with a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast, which is famous for its dramatic cliffs and colorful villages. You’ll have the chance to choose between Positano, Sorrento, Amalfi, or Ravello—based on your interests and driver’s advice. Traveling in a comfortable Mercedes sedan or minivan, you’ll enjoy air conditioning, WiFi, and a bottle of water, making the long day relaxed. The coastal drive is a highlight, with stops at panoramic viewpoints and free time in your selected town. Guests rave about the personable driver and the flexibility to tailor the day. This tour delivers a perfect blend of history and stunning scenery, ideal for those wanting a private, curated experience.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers seeking personalized attention and the chance to enjoy both Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast at their own pace.
2. Full Day Private Tour – Positano Amalfi Ravello or Sorrento
At number 2, this tour offers a flexible itinerary focusing on three (or four) of the coast’s most beautiful towns—Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, or Sorrento. You’ll start in Amalfi, walking its charming alleys and visiting the Duomo, then move on to Positano’s famously photogenic hillside houses, and finish in Ravello, with its breathtaking views from Villa Rufolo. The driver will help you choose the best towns to visit, and extra hours can be added to explore more places. Guests highlight the personalized service and the scenic stops, with one reviewer noting that their driver was very accommodating. It’s an excellent option for those wanting a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to see the coast’s highlights with flexible timing and expert guidance.
3. Skip-the-line Exclusive Private Full-Day Complete Ancient Pompeii Guided Tour
At number 3, this skip-the-line tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive, private deep dive into Pompeii’s ruins in about 4 hours. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore highlights such as the House of Menander, the Stabian Baths, and the Forum, all while avoiding crowds. This tour is customizable, so if you’re particularly interested in frescoes, mosaics, or Roman baths, your guide can focus on those areas. Guests appreciate how the guide makes the site come alive with stories and details, making it perfect for history buffs who want quality over quantity. It’s a great value for those who prefer an in-depth look in a shorter time.
Bottom Line: A focused, private experience for travelers eager to learn about Pompeii’s art and daily life without rushing.
4. Full Day Tour to Pompeii, Vesuvius and Wine Tasting
At number 4, this tour combines the Pompeii ruins with a visit to Mount Vesuvius and a wine tasting at the Vesuvius National Park. After exploring Pompeii’s streets, you’ll ascend Vesuvius itself, with about 1.5 hours to hike the crater (without requiring advanced fitness). Then, indulge in regional wines and local produce at a vineyard, making it a well-rounded day of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Guests mention the helpful driver and the unique opportunity to stand on one of the world’s most famous volcanoes. It’s ideal for those wanting a mix of archaeology, geology, and wine, all in one day.
Bottom Line: A good pick for wine lovers and those eager to experience Vesuvius firsthand along with Pompeii.
5. Full-Day Amalfi Coast Excursion
At number 5, this private shore excursion is tailored for cruise passengers. It covers Ravello, Positano, and Amalfi, with optional extra stops like Conca dei Marini. You’ll explore Ravello’s Villa Rufolo, wander among Positano’s steep streets, and visit Amalfi’s cathedral. The tour emphasizes flexibility—your driver-guide makes stops for photos, shopping, or dining. Guests who enjoy scenic drives and picturesque villages will find this tour perfect. It’s especially suited for those with limited time in port but who want a full taste of the coast’s most iconic spots.
Bottom Line: Great for cruise travelers who want a personalized, scenic day without the hassle of planning.
6. Full Day Private Tour of Naples and Vesuvius
At number 6, this tour combines an exploration of Naples’ historic center—full of churches, piazzas, and vibrant street life—with a trip up Mount Vesuvius. You’ll have about 2 hours to wander through Naples, then a scenic drive to the volcano’s crater, with options to hike (tickets and guides not included). An ideal choice if you’re interested in seeing a lively Italian city and experiencing Vesuvius’s awe-inspiring presence. Guests note the knowledgeable driver and the opportunity to enjoy local wines during the city visit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a city break combined with a volcanic adventure.
7. Pompeii and Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Full Day Tour
At number 7, this combined tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum offers a comprehensive look at two UNESCO sites. In about 5 hours, your private guide will showcase Pompeii’s well-preserved streets and Herculaneum’s remarkably intact buildings. Guests appreciate the skip-the-line access, which minimizes waiting and maximizes exploring. The tour suits history enthusiasts who want to compare both cities’ different states of preservation and lifestyles. One reviewer praised their guide for making the experience educational and engaging.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs eager to see both Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day.
8. Full-Day Pompeii and Stabiae Tour with Pickup
At number 8, this tour focuses on the wealthy Roman villas of Stabiae, buried by Vesuvius. In about 7 hours, you’ll see the ruins of Pompeii and the luxurious villa sites of Stabiae, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of ancient Roman aristocrats. The tour is ideal for those fascinated by Roman architecture and art, with a relaxed pace. One review praises the well-preserved remains and the informative guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in Roman aristocratic life and exquisite villa ruins.
9. Full-Day Positano, Praiano, Conca dei Marini e Amalfi
At number 9, this tour offers a comprehensive drive along the coast, stopping in Positano, Praiano, Conca dei Marini, and Amalfi. You’ll get to spend about an hour in Positano’s iconic streets, explore Praiano’s peaceful views, and visit the famous Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini. Optional visits to Ravello are also available. The highlight is the mix of lesser-known villages and the classic Amalfi towns, making it ideal for those wanting a broader experience of the coast beyond the main tourist hubs.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to see a variety of coastal villages in one day.
10. Full Day Private Tour to Pompeii, Herculaneum and Oplontis
At number 10, this full-day trip covers Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the Villa Oplontis. It’s perfect for travelers craving a broad overview, exploring Pompeii’s vast ruins, Herculaneum’s better-preserved quarters, and the luxury of Villa Oplontis. The tour is private, with about 7 to 8 hours for a thorough experience. Guests love the mix of different types of ruins, giving a rounded perspective on Roman life across social classes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an all-encompassing Roman archaeological experience.
11. Full Day Private Tour to the Royal Palace of Caserta and Pompeii
At number 11, this tour combines visiting the largest royal residence in the world, the Royal Palace of Caserta, with Pompeii’s archaeological wonders. The 47,000 m² palace offers stunning architecture and gardens, while Pompeii provides a window into ancient Roman urban life. Guests appreciate the luxurious setting and the flexibility to explore both sites comfortably. It’s perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and royal splendor.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers seeking a mix of grand architecture and ancient ruins.
$300.20 per person
12. Pompeii & Naples: Full Day Tour with Your Local Guide
At number 12, this tour pairs Pompeii’s ruins with a guided walk through Naples’ historic center. It’s a 5-hour experience focusing on key sights, with tips on local restaurants and pizzerias. The tour’s strength is the insider knowledge, making it ideal for those wanting both archaeological and urban exploration. One reviewer highlights their guide’s engaging storytelling, which made the ruins come alive.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who want a balanced day of history and city culture.
$465.43 per group (up to 10)
13. From Pompeii: Full Day Visit of Pompeii and the Mount Vesuvius
At number 13, this organized day trip from Pompeii includes a guided tour of Pompeii and a hike to Vesuvius’s crater. Ideal for those on a limited schedule, it offers a 2-hour exploration of Pompeii’s highlights, followed by a roughly 3-hour trek up Vesuvius. One reviewer describes it as “worth the steep hike,” emphasizing the thrill of standing inside an active volcano. It’s best suited for active travelers who want both archaeology and adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those keen on a strenuous but rewarding day combining history and geology.
14. Full Day Capri Tour from Pompeii by Small Ferry Boat
Finally, number 14 offers a full-day trip to Capri via small ferry, perfect for travelers eager for a luxurious escape. Starting with a scenic ride along the Sorrento coast, you’ll disembark to explore Capri’s charming streets, beaches, and caves such as the Faraglioni and Green Grotto. The tour includes a boat tour of the island, providing stunning views and photo opportunities. Reviews mention the “amazing boat ride” and the smooth organization, making it a memorable day out. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, all-encompassing experience of this glamorous island.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers craving a scenic, leisurely day on the water and on Capri’s stunning shores.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Pompeii
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and whether you prefer a private or group experience. If you’re keen on deep historical insights, the Skip-the-line Pompeii tour (#3) offers personalized attention. For scenic coastal views combined with archaeology, the Amalfi Coast private tours (#1) and #2 are hard to beat. If you want a mix of history, geology, and wine, the Vesuvius and wine tasting is a superb choice.
For cruise passengers, the full-day shore excursion (#5) with its flexible stops offers a worry-free way to see the coast. Those wanting a more active adventure may prefer the Vesuvius hike combined with Pompeii (#13), while travelers seeking luxury can opt for the Capri boat trip (#14) for a splendid day on the sea.
In summary, Pompeii’s full-day tours cover a wide spectrum—from intimate private explorations and archaeological dives to scenic drives and luxurious island escapes. For history lovers, the private Pompeii tours (#3) or combined Pompeii and Herculaneum (#7) are excellent options. For those craving coastal views and picturesque towns, the Amalfi Coast tours and #9 are hard to beat.
Booking early is advisable—these popular tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Whether you’re after history, scenery, or a special mix, Pompeii’s full-day options will enrich your Italian adventure with memorable sights and stories waiting to be uncovered.