The best time of the year to travel to Pompeii is during the off-season, between October and April, when crowds are lighter. Summer, between May and September, is busiest for Pompeii tours.

Pompeii is a massive site with lots to see. Here are a few can’t-miss highlights to explore when you visit Pompeii on tour.

• House of the Vettii
• House of the Faun
• House of the Tragic Poet
• Villa dei Misteri
• Temple of Apollo
• Temple of Isis
• Garden of the Fugitives
• Amphitheater of Pompeii

For details about each of these sites, check out what to see in the ancient city of Pompeii in a single day.

Preparing to travel to Pompeii includes packing a few essential items that will keep you comfortable.

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Roads in Pompeii are dusty and uneven. A sturdy pair of shoes will help you keep your balance, and closed toes will help keep out dust and, if it rains, mud.
• Sun protection. If you travel to Pompeii in the summer, pack a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin and eyes from the strong sun. Consider bringing a light-colored, long-sleeve shirt made from breathable materials, such as linen, to help simultaneously protect your skin and keep cool.
• Lightweight layers. Travelers visiting Pompeii in cooler months should pack lightweight layers. In cooler months, bring a lightweight sweater and a light jacket.
• Water. Pompeii tours typically involve a lot of walking outside, where it can be hot and sunny. Bring a reusable bottle filled with fresh water to stay cool and hydrated.
• A camera. A good camera is a must for travelers on our trips to Pompeii who want to capture the site’s centuries-old ruins.  
• A small backpack. A small, durable backpack will help travelers on tours in Pompeii keep their belongings within easy reach—and their hands free for all that picture taking.

Here are a few helpful things to know before booking a Pompeii tour package.

• Travelers who are interested in Pompeii vacations can visit the ancient site on several of our tours.
• Archaeologists first began uncovering Pompeii in the mid-1700s. While excavation continues to this day due to the massive size of the site, much of the focus is now on the restoration and maintenance of structures that have been uncovered. With so many travelers visiting Pompeii to learn about its history firsthand, conservation of the ruins is a top priority, and travelers are asked to abide by rules and guidelines designed with that mission in mind.
• After walking through the ruins and seeing the city from atop Mount Vesuvius, stop by the National Archaeological Museum in the heart of Naples. This museum houses a large collection of artifacts and art from both Pompeii and Herculaneum, the other city that was destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.

For more, check out staffer Courtney’s tips for visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii, Italy.