Travel time: Year-round
Pompeii sits in a classic Mediterranean climate zone, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. However, the site’s unique geographical position—tucked between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the looming silhouette of Mount Vesuvius—creates specific weather dynamics that differ from nearby Naples.
Spring is a period of rapid transition. In March, the air remains crisp with temperatures around 14°C (57°F), but by May, highs frequently reach 24°C (75°F). This season is defined by increasing stability; while early spring may see sudden Mediterranean downpours, May offers some of the clearest and most temperate days of the year.
Summer is intense and arid. July and August are the peak months, with average highs of 30-32°C (86-90°F), though heatwaves can push mercury past 35°C (95°F). Rain is rare, occurring on only two or three days a month, usually in the form of brief, violent thunderstorms. The sun is punishingly direct during the midday hours.
Autumn begins as an extension of summer, with September remaining warm (27°C / 81°F). However, October and November bring the arrival of the "wetter season." November is historically the rainiest month in the region, receiving significant precipitation that often comes in heavy, persistent bursts.
Winters are mild by European standards, with daytime highs hovering between 12°C and 14°C (54-57°F). Frost is extremely rare, though the humidity—often exceeding 70%—can make the air feel damp and biting. While January is the coldest month, the sun still makes frequent appearances between rainy spells.
The most critical aspect of Pompeii’s weather is not the air temperature, but the thermal mass of the site itself. The ancient Roman basalt paving stones and volcanic stone walls absorb solar radiation throughout the day. In the summer, these surfaces act as massive radiators, making the "feels-like" temperature within the narrow streets significantly higher than the official forecast. Conversely, in winter, these same stones can feel exceptionally cold and damp underfoot.
Mount Vesuvius acts as a major climatic barrier. It can trap moisture moving inland from the Gulf of Naples, leading to localized cloud cover or fog (known locally as nebbia) that might shroud the ruins while the coast remains clear. The archaeological park is also much more exposed to wind than the modern city. The Libeccio (southwest wind) often brings moisture and warmer air, while the Tramontana (north wind) can bring sudden, sharp drops in temperature during winter nights.
The climate in 79 AD was remarkably similar to today's, though the coastline has shifted. Historically, the area was prized by Roman elites for its "salubrious air"—a mix of sea breezes and mountain air. Today, climate change has introduced more volatility, with the region experiencing more frequent "flash-flood" rainfall events that challenge the ancient drainage systems of the ruins.
Locals in the Campania region live by the rhythm of the sun. In the summer, activity peaks in the early morning and late evening, with a distinct midday lull when the heat is most oppressive. In the winter, residents adapt to the humidity rather than the cold, as the dampness from the sea can make even a mild 10°C (50°F) day feel quite raw. You will notice that the ruins offer almost zero natural shade, a factor that defines the local and visitor experience from June through September.