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Herculaneum Small Group tour with an Archaeologist – Skip the line

Pompeii small-group tour with an Archaeologist and skip the line included

Herculaneum private walking tour

Pompeii private tour w/an Archaeologist/Skip the line

Pompeii and Herculaneum walking tour/Skip the line included

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• Pompeii - Mt. Vesuvius

Herculaneum Tours

Guided tours and day trips to Herculaneum with pick-up in Positano and Amalfi

Herculaneum is an archaeological treasure just as captivating as its larger and more famous neighbor Pompeii. Visit the ruins of this ancient Roman city with a tour or day trip from the Amalfi Coast. Book a tour that includes a guide and transfer, with or without a stop in Pompeii.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to see herculaneum.

The ruins of Herculaneum are much smaller than those in Pompeii and can be explored in just a few hours. There is also more shade in Herculaneum than in Pompeii, so it's an ideal place to tour on a hot summer day.

• Naples Attractions

Herculaneum

House of Neptune

Samnite house.

• Frescoes and Mosaics

Villa of the Papyri

• Plan Your Visit
• Skip the Line Tours
• Guided Tours
• Herculaneum and Pompeii
• Audio Guide Tours
• Herculaneum and Vesuvius
• Pompeii Tickets & Tours
• Royal Palace of Naples
• Museo Di Capodimonte

Mount Vesuvius

• Villa Pignatelli
• Museo Archaelogico Nazionale di Napoli
• Certosa di San Martino
• Catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples Tickets
• Città della Scienza
• Bourbon Tunnel
• Naples Underground
• Maradona Tours
• Artecard Naples City Pass
• Veiled Christ
• Alibus Airport Transfers
• Walking Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises

Herculaneum Tickets

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.

Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Archaeologist

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Get ready for an immersive and insightful tour of the ancient town of Herculaneum, along with skip-the-line access.
• Traverse this unique site on foot and pass along the monumental basilica, the grand spa complex, the gymnasium, and then some.
• Thanks to the expert archaeologist who will walk alongside you, you'll be privy to captivating anecdotes, secrets, stories, and chilling facts about Herculaneum.
• Most renowned for its Roman excavations, Herculaneum also has traces of Samnite, Greek, Etruscan influences.
• Learn all about the tragic effects of Mount Vesuvius's eruption, which mirrors its sister town of Pompeii.
• Guided tour of Herculaneum with skip-the-line entry
• Expert English, Spanish, French, German or Italian-speaking archaeologist guide
• Tip: Overlooking the Gulf of Naples in a dramatic fashion, this world-renowned town has much to offer, aesthetically speaking. Bring out your cameras for the panoramas!
• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. Entry is free for people with disabilities and an accompanying adult.
• Dogs are allowed into the venue, without restriction of breed or size. However, they must be kept with a leash and/or muzzle (the latter is obligatory for all breeds and opportunities provided by current regulations). Pet parents must have bags to collect any droppings.
• In the Antiquarium, inside the Padiglione della Barca and in the domus with mosaic floors, access is allowed only to dogs carried in their arms or in the appropriate carrier.
• Facilities: restroom, cloak room.

Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets

• Swiftly enter Herculaneum, an ancient Roman town preserved better than Pompeii during the aftermath of Mt. Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD.
• Take advantage of your skip-the-line tickets into the UNESCO World Heritage Site, avoiding the long tourist lines to explore at your will.
• Upgrade to get 3D glasses and an audio guide for an augmented reality walking tour discovering the remnants of villas, bathhouses, frescoes, and more.
• Spend as much time as you want uncovering different homes, like the spaciously opulent House of the Bronze Hermes and the artisanal living space in the House of the Cloth.
• Skip-the-line entry to Herculaneum
• 3D glasses and audio guide (optional)
• Tip: Check out the unique House of the Skeleton, which has an atrium with shrines and a courtyard with a mosaic-covered altar.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

• Want the freedom of self-discovery and the expertise of a guide as you visit Herculaneum? These skip-the-line tickets with an engaging audio guide have got you covered.
• In 5 languages, unravel the narratives of ordinary citizens woven into the colorful frescoes, intricate mosaics, and stunning structures.
• Explore the lavish House of the Deer and Villa of the Papyri, and walk along the ancient main street Decumanus Maximus, lined with shops and houses.
• Audio guide in Italian, English, French, Spanish & German
• Tip: Want to visit a supposed ancient cult temple rumored to be run by imperially-sanctioned freedmen? Stop by the College of Augustales.

Combo (Save 5%): Pompeii + Herculaneum Tickets

• Combine your visit to 2 ancient towns preserved under the ash of Mt. Vesuvius! Get tickets to the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Bypass the queues at Herculaneum as you learn of its intellectual traditions at places like the Villa of Papyri, where 1st-century philosophy scrolls were found.
• Discover everyday objects at Pompeii, an amphitheater, public baths, and other sites that will give you a glimpse of the life of ancient Romans.
• The preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature excavated ruins of streets and houses that you can freely explore.
• Entry to Pompeii
• Tip: Try to observe the different tiling trends in Pompeii and Herculaneum. While the former had colorful mosaics, the latter had more black and white designs.
• Big dogs (above the weight 10kg and the height of 40cm) are not allowed into the venue. Guide dogs with the proper certification are welcome.

From Pompeii/Naples: Pompeii & Herculaneum Guided Tour with Archaeologist

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Tick off 2 important archaeological sites ingrained in myth and history – Pompeii and Herculaneum, on the same day with a fun guided tour.
• Walking beside an archaeologist will lend you a unique perspective, a sneak peek into the typical lifestyle of Romans over 1900 years ago.
• Get convenient round-trip transfers! If you are in Naples, have a comfy adventure in an AC coach. From Pompeii, experience the charm of the local train.
• Tune into digital audio guides to listen to fascinating stories of ancient Rome in the language you prefer.
• Marvel at perfectly preserved frescoes, intricate mosaics, and lavish villas of Herculaneum and Pompeii as you listen to its tragic tale of fire and ash.
• Guided tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum with entry
• Expert English-speaking archaeologist guide
• Digital audio guide in Italian, English, Spanish, French & German
• Round-trip AC coach transfers from Naples (optional)
• Round-trip train ticket from Pompeii to Herculaneum (optional)
• Tip: Check out the 3-storey mansion in Herculaneum, House of the Relief of Telephus , once laden with marble walls and a panoramic terrace.
• Unfortunately, pets cannot tag along for this experience.

From Naples: Herculaneum Half-Day Tour

• Discover the ruins of Herculaneum, a well-preserved Roman town that suffered the same fate as Pompeii in 79 AD.
• See picturesque villas, bathhouses, frescoes, metal works, and more preserved in their near-perfect state in Herculaneum.
• Enjoy a comfortable experience with round-trip transfers from your hotel in Naples aboard a fully-fitted GT coach with audio commentary on board.
• 3-hour guided tour of Herculaneum
• Expert local guide
• Audio guides
• Round-trip transfers from Naples
• Fully-fitted GT coach
• Entry to Herculaneum
• During the low season, from Nov to Mar, the live guide inside the ruins will be replaced with an audio guide if the group is less than 6 people.
• The following are not allowed on this tour: Large baggage and suitcases.

From Pompeii/Naples: Vesuvius and Herculaneum Tour

• Immerse yourself in a full-day tour exploring the historical marvels of Vesuvius and Herculaneum, 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Enjoy a stress-free journey with comfortable round-trip transfers and skip-the-line entrance fees to these historic sites included in the package.
• Experience the thrill of hiking up to the Vesuvius crater and marvel at the sweeping views of the Gulf of Naples.
• Delve into ancient Roman history in Herculaneum, where you'll discover remarkably preserved artifacts and the luxurious Villa dei Papiri.
• Embark on this historical journey starting from either Pompeii or Naples.
• 6-hour tour of Vesuvius and Herculaneum
• Skip-the-line tickets to Vesuvius
• Skip-the-line tickets to Herculaneum
• Round-trip transfers from Pompeii or Naples (as per option selected)
• Pick up at 8:45am from Pompei and 9:20am from Naples
• Transfer to Herculaneum
• Free time to visit the Archeological site (2 hours)
• Transfer to Vesuvius
• Free time to reach the Crater
• Return transfer to Pompeii
• Tip: Remember to pack a light lunch or snacks. There are a few options for food but they might not suit everyone's tastes.
• A maximum of 16 people are allowed on this tour.

From Pompeii/Naples: Pompeii, Herculaneum & Vesuvius Day Trip

• Experience a full day of adventure and history as you gain entry to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius National Park.
• Round-trip transfers from your hotel in either Pompeii or Naples, an expert driver, and a carefully curated route allow you to make the most of your trip.
• Benefit from a multilingual audio guide and map of Pompeii, followed by a visit to the homes and public spaces of the smaller city of Herculaneum.
• At Mount Vesuvius, you’ll climb to the active crater along with a volcanic guide, and find a thriving wine industry on its fertile slopes!
• Day trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius
• Entry to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius National Park
• Audio guide and map of Pompeii
• Tip: Don’t miss Herculaneum's boathouses, holding the skeletal remains of those who tried to escape the eruption by sea.
• While Pompeii and Herculaneum are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the climb up Mount Vesuvius is not.

Campania Express One-Way Tickets: Naples Porta Nolana to/from Herculaneum

• Tired of travel hassles? Hop on board this one-way express transfer from Naples Porta Nolana Train Station to Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train Station.
• With train connections available every 3 hours, you won't miss a beat and zoom to your destination in just 18 minutes flat!
• Sit back, relax, and soak in the sights from vibrant city neighborhoods to the majestic Mount Vesuvius in the distance in air-conditioned coaches.
• At Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train Station, you've got options galore: heading further afield or exploring local gems, the station got you covered.
• One-way express transfers between Naples Porta Nolana Train Station and Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train Station
• Air-conditioning onboard
• Tip: First things first, grab a map at the Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train Station to navigate this ancient region and plan your day ahead.
• Please pay attention to the local displays and loudspeaker announcements and look out for trains having the name "Campania Express" on them.

Top things to do in Naples

Herculaneum | Vesuvius’ well-preserved victim

Besides Pompeii, there was yet another ancient Roman city that was smothered under Mount Vesuvius’ outburst in 79 AD. Enter Herculaneum, smaller yet more opulent than Pompei . Proof of its richness lies in the perfectly preserved ruins of villas and town squares that were previously used by Roman noblemen and women as holiday homes and retreats. 

Even today, the remains of wooden furniture, doors and roofs, mosaics and frescoes, and organic substances like food have been remarkably preserved. This is due to the unique pyroclastic, or volcanic, residue that blanketed the settlement, trapping its contents in an infinite fire-freeze. Visit Herculaneum in the Campania region of Italy to discover its secrets.

Things to know before booking Herculaneum tickets

• Booking combo tours to both Herculaneum and Pompeii to understand the full aftermath of Vesuvius’ wrath makes sense. But don’t feel pressured to visit both sites on the same day. Your tickets allow you to book entry to them on different dates.
• Besides Herculaneum and Pompeii, opt for the Artecard Campania to enter 5 top sites and grab discounts on several more! The Artecard Campania is valid for 7 days from the time of purchase.
• Purchasing skip-the-line tickets helps you save anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour’s worth of time , otherwise spent in long tourist lines. Better still, take a guided tour with a knowledgeable professional who can explain in detail the ins and outs of Herculaneum history , secrets, myths and more.
• Short on time but don’t want to miss out? Ride the superfast Campania Express from Naples to Herculaneum in just 18 minutes! Note that this is a one-way ticket either from the Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train station to Naples Porta Nolana station or vice versa. Additionally, it doesn’t guarantee entry to Herculaneum, so those tickets will have to be purchased separately.
• Bid goodbye to your travel woes if you're arriving from Naples or Pompeii. In half a day, get transfers rom Naples or Pompeii in an AC coach and visit Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius.
• To learn more about the main reason behind Herculaneum — Mount Vesuvius itself, make a stop at the volcano , climb its summit, peer into its craters and know what makes it as famous as it is fearsome!
• Those with mobility constraints / wheelchair users can avail a specially designed route by informing the help desk at the beginning of the site.
• Did you know that many of Herculaneum’s treasures are no longer housed in Herculaneum? Head to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples to see artifacts and items rescued from Herculaneum.

Your Herculaneum ticket types explained

Skip-the-line tickets.

Suited for: Those short on time

What you get

• Breeze through the entry and meet your guide, or begin your exploration on your own without waiting for anyone.
• If you’ve booked a guided tour additionally, meet the archeologist who will whisk you away into the settlement’s folds and regale you with tales of majesty, heroism and heartbreak.  

Guided tours

Suited for: History and culture enthusiasts

• Interesting history, anecdotes and trivia about the site from an expert local guide.
• If you're visiting Mount Vesuvius, benefit from a volcanic guide who will offer little-known facts and insights about these areas in an active volcanic belt.

Suited for: Those looking for an end-to-end package tour

• Round-trip options offer pick-up-and-drop from Naples/Pompeii, depending on your choosing.
• You can either book round trips from Naples or Pompeii to Herculaneum and back. Else, you can book round-trips from Pompeii to Herculaneum and back.

Combo tickets

Suited for: Those who are seeking an in-depth experience

• Tick off other attractions on your Campania visit besides Herculaneum. Combo tickets offer better savings as compared to buying individual tickets.
• Include Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in your itinerary to get a well-rounded understanding of the region, the consequences of the 79 AD eruption and more.

Booking guide: Find the best Herculaneum ticket for you

What to see inside herculaneum.

Located a little further from the House of the Charred Furniture, the House of Neptune was created as a tribute to the gods Neptune and Amphitrite. The primary attraction at the House of Neptune is a stunning glass mosaic wall featuring Neptune and his wife Amphitrite, with marble masks over it.

Considered one of the most magnificent villas in Herculaneum, this site gained fame due to the discovery of numerous papyrus scrolls that offer insights into the philosophical and intellectual rigor of the time. The Villa of the Papyri is thought to once have a vineyard and gardens, and has a direct view of the sea from its terraces.

Thermae (thermal baths)

The thermal baths date back to the 1st century BC and clearly demarcate separate areas for men and women. Once can still identify how the water was heated by a large, still-intact furnace.

Hall of the Augustales

Devotees of Emperor Augustus’ cult met here for their meetings and claimed it as their official seat. It is also identified by various frescos, famous ones portraying Hercules wrestling Achelous.

From all the excavation projects, the Samnite House was identified as one of the oldest aristocratic residences in Herculaneum. Of note is its beautiful flooring, rainwater pool and still-standing columns and pillars.

House of the Deer

On this spot, one can find another grand villa in Herculaneum, facing the oceanside. These were decorated with statues of deer and large marble tables that one can find in the on-site museum as well. Notice the unique flooring of this villa, as it is covered with intricate mosaics, frescoes and marble chips.

House of the Relief of Telephus

One of the largest buildings to have been excavated in Herculaneum, this house features a relief of Telepho, son of Hercules, being cured by Achilles. This residence is believed to be owned by Roman senator Marco Nonio Balbo.

It was in this boat house that some 300 skeletons were found. The remains are thought to be of people who sought to flee Vesuvius’ wrath by the sea, but the heat got to them before they could escape. 

Plan your visit to Herculaneum

March 16 to October 14: 8:30am to 7:30pm. October 15 to March 15: 8:30am to 5pm.

Last admission: 90 minutes before closing time. Closed: January 1 and December 25.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Herculaneum is in the morning (before 11am) or during the off-season, between October to April. This offers a more relaxed tour experience.

Address: Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy. Find On Map .

Getting there

By train:   L1, L4 Nearest station: Ercolana Scavi By bus: ANM Nearest stop: Herculaneum By car: via A3, E45 Car parking: In addition to various private car parks in the area, the municipal car park in Viale dei Papiri Ercolanesi is operating regularly. 

• Guests with motor disabilities can be assisted with the III Cardo ramp by reaching out to the staff at the entrance.
• There is an experimental app called Coloredibluerculanus that is available for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Interested visitors can email the site staff a week in advance to use it.

• Audioguides
• Information desk

• Please carry a small backpack or a purse as large bags aren’t allowed.
• Children below the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Infants must be carried in a sling or baby carrier as it is difficult to handle strollers in the cobblestoned areas.
• During the opening hours of the park, be sure to experience the Pomegranate Garden inside the House of the Relief of Telephus. It’s also a good idea to visit Maiuri Park, designed by the archeologist who extensively headed Herculaneum’s excavation projects. This botanical oasis is a gateway to appreciating the Naples countryside.
• If you’re a book lover, look out for and be part of the book sharing exchange that usually happens at the entrance on Corso Resina.
• There aren't many eateries around, so it is best to carry snacks or food and have a picnic around the site.

• Pappamonte:  Enjoy a delectable selection of salads, Italian favorites (like gnocchi and eggplant parmigiana) and seafood at Pappamonte, located 1.7 km away .
• Bistrot Italia: Great interiors and sumptuous food (try the porcini!) spanning seafood, desserts and more, Bistrot Italia is just 1.6 km away.
• Ristorante Vesum: Good food and good views, Ristorante Vesum has an array of local delicacies including a selection of Campania red wine. Vesum is also known for its seafood. Vesum is located 7.7 km away.

• Budget: Herculaneum Maison and Hotel ( 40 m away ), Ruins B&B ( 1 km away )
• Mid-range: Miglio D’Oro Park Hotel ( 290 m away ), Villa Signorini Events and Hotel ( 900 m )
• Luxury: Il San Cristoforo ( 3.3 km away ), Sisina Luxury Room ( 1.6 km away )

Pompeii, Herculaneum’s twin site, was also entombed by hot ash and pumice by the Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD, preserving the city's structures, artifacts, and even human remains. Unlike Herculaneum, however, the debris that coated Pompeii was far lesser, aiding easier excavation of its remains.

Location: 16 km away

Still a fire-breathing dragon, Vesuvius is an active volcano that has lost some steam over the years. Now no longer as deadly as it once was, small spurts of sulfur occasionally escape from its mellow peaks. Visit this geological site to get an insight into its terrain and character — and discover how it reduced the cities on its foothills to near ash.

Location: 12.9 km away

National Archeological Museum

The Naples National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world, housing an unparalleled collection of artifacts from ancient Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other sites in southern Italy. Some noteworthy works include the Bronze Runners from Herculaneum’s Villa of the Papyri, erotic charms and phallic symbols salvaged from Pompeii.

Location: 19.2 km away

Frequently asked questions about Herculaneum tickets

Booking Herculaneum tickets online offers convenience and flexibility. You can easily book anytime, select your preferred date and time, and access various ticket options, including priority access and guided tours. Plus, enjoy customer support assistance and flexible cancellation policies, providing added convenience for your travel plans.

You can expect to save 20 minutes to an hour of waiting time by booking priority access tickets. With these tickets, all you need to do is show your ticket at the entrance and begin your tour immediately.

Since Herculaneum is buried in historical wealth, walking the ruins with a tour guide or archeologist can help you understand the meaning and purpose of various houses, frescoes and mosaics and other remnants. So, paying the extra few bucks for a guided experience is absolutely worth it.

Although nothing quite tops a guided tour , you can still learn about the history and significance of the Herculaneum with audio guided tours like Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide . If you want to go the traditional route and explore on your own, make sure you do plenty of research before visiting so you can fully appreciate what you’re looking at.

Avail Herculaneum audio guide tours in Italian, English, French, Spanish and German.

Typically, those under 18 enter for free, as do members of the ICOM, people with disabilities and one companion, students and teachers enrolled in courses related to archeology, culture, history, conservation, etc. Groups, Ministry bodies, etc. are liable to receive concessions.

It depends on the ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.

Yes, entry is free for people with disabilities and one companion, provided they offer proof of availing social support.

Yes, tourists can generally access all sites open to visitors, unless any specific monument or building is cordoned off for repair, like the Villa of the Papyri , for instance.

While not exactly hidden, definitely check out the Palestra that sprawls two terraces (here, ancient Romans engaged in physical sport and ball games). Also visit the House of the Wooden Partition which has sliding doors that still work on their hinges. Though not much to look at, you can also stop by the House of the Skeleton, known for the fact that a skeleton was discovered here in the 19th century. It now has faded mosaics. 

Herculaneum Italy - Tickets & Tours

Visit the roman ruins of herculaneum (ercolano) from naples italy.

Tips, tours from Naples and Ercolano tickets for visiting the archaeological park of Herculaneum Italy, a former fishing village that was hit by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Visit Herculaneum, the city next to the Vesuvius

The city of Pompeii is often mentioned in the same sentence with the volcanic eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79, but on the other side of the volcano was also another city, namely Herculaneum or in Italian Ercolano . The city of Herculaneum was also affected by the volcanic eruption, albeit to a lesser extent. Pompeii was covered in a large layer of ash and mud during the volcanic eruption in 79. Herculaneum, however, was covered by a 20-meter-thick lava flow. This is why houses were much better preserved than in Pompeii . They are still fairly intact, especially the upper floors. In addition, many paintings have been preserved and you can even see some furniture. Some of the best archaeological finds of the archaeological park of Herculaneum can now be found in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, Italy.

Discovery of Herculaneum (Ercolano)

Herculaneum was discovered by accident in the year 1709 during the construction of a well. From that year on, the city was excavated by archaeologists, but especially from 1927, archaeologists actively started excavating. It is almost impossible to excavate everything of the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum and so parts of the city are still underground. 5 of the 20 hectares have now been excavated. If you visit Herculaneum nowadays you will end up in a kind of valley.

The big differences between Pompeii and Herculaneum

If you compare Pompeii to Herculaneum you will come across two completely different cities. In Herculaneum you can easily walk through houses, while that is impossible in Pompeii. In addition, Herculaneum is a lot smaller and you can see everything within half a day, while you could really spend a few days in Pompeii. In the smaller city 'Ercolano' you have more the feeling that you are walking through an authentic Roman city, while Pompeii was much more destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius .

Visit Herculaneum Italy

Another reason to visit Herculaneum Italy is because the archaeological park of Herculaneum is only 15 minutes away from the train station of Naples . A visit to Herculaneum is also easier to combine with a visit to the Mount Vesuvius , since from the train station of Herculaneum ('Ercolona Scavi') the Vesuvius Express buses depart to the top of the Mount Vesuvius . It is a good idea to book a guided tour during your visit of Herculaneum. The guides will provide you with all kinds of useful facts and tips. More info about tours and Herculaneum tickets :

Video: Documentary about Herculaneum

Where is ercolano (herculaneum) in italy.

Herculaneum Italy, also known as Ercolano, is located in the Campania region of southern Italy. It is located on the west coast of the peninsula, about 10 kilometers southeast of the city of Naples. Herculaneum is located at the foot of Vesuvius , an active volcano that has had a great influence on the surrounding cities in the past. The city is easily accessible by train or bus from Naples and is an important archaeological site due to the well-preserved remains of the ancient Roman city that was buried under volcanic ash.

Most visited attractions

Top 25 Things to do in Naples

Pompeii: Tours & Tickets

Day trips from Naples

Herculaneum Guided Tour with Your Archaeologist

• Certified Guide
• Archaeologist
• Entrance tickets
• Entry/Admission - Parco Acheologico di Ercolano
• Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy The guide will wait for the guests at the Ticket Office of Herculaneum Archaeological Park
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Parco Acheologico di Ercolano

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Archaeological Park of Herculaneum Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy The guide will wait for the guests at the Ticket Office of Herculaneum Archaeological Park See address & details
• 1 Parco Acheologico di Ercolano Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded Explore ruins of Herculaneum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most preserved ancient cities. Herculaneum was buried under volcanic material after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD but, unlike the nearby site of Pompeii, a lot of the town was preserved: roofs, beds, doors, food, and even skeletons. Walk the cobbled streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with an archaeologist and get a glimpse of what life was like before the devastating eruption. Explore intact buildings at your own pace, see well-preserved frescoes, and imagine the daily rituals of those using the shops, public gymnasium and public thermal baths that can still be seen today. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• 929Buzz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best Naples tour with the best guide Excellent guide with Raffaele who had so much knowledge about all that we saw and was able to show us so much more than normal guide books. He was so proud of his heritage and culture and this just shone through during the tour. He got us past the crowds and being such a small group tour we could adapt and see things and ask questions at any time and he always had an answer for us as his knowledge is superb. Would definitely use again when we return Read more Written April 25, 2024
• Meera201 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fascinating tour of Pompeii with great guide, Gennaro We had a fantastic two hour tour of Pompeii with our very knowledgeable and personable guide Gennaro. Our only regret was that we did not give ourselves enough time to visit and only saw a very small part of the expansive ruins. Read more Written April 24, 2024
• christinetF1033FP 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Setting the history alive Roberts was an excellent guide showing us all the most interesting parts and setting the site alive for us to visualise the history 2 hours is just the right amount of time - we then spent another couple of hours drifting around ourselves once slightly more educated Very enjoyable (The guided tour and the entry tickets are two separate fees ) Read more Written April 18, 2024
• MARNE13 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Experience the real Pompeii with an archaeologist! Visiting Pompeii with a real archaeologist is not only a privilege, but also a must! Raffaele is super passionate and incredibly well informed about the site itself. He knows the areas that are the best, most beautiful and recently opened, and leads you directly there, all the while providing insightful bits of backstory—in this way, we made the most of our visit and learned so much! We saw other people wandering around aimlessly, not knowing where to go...such a waste of time and energy in this gorgeous locale. Friendly, relaxed and humorous, Raffaele was everything you could hope for in a guide. Don't miss this opportunity to see Pompeii through his eyes! Read more Written April 7, 2024
• AngieFrizzie 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Guide Raphael was a fantastic guide, giving us a unique perspective from the archaeological view. He was thorough and passionate, yet did not rush us. It was a great experience. We could have never learned so much from a map or an audio guide. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• E6259XBkyler 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pompeii in March 2024 Annalisa was great ! She showed us all the best areas in Pompeii. She was very knowledgeable and took care of our group very well. Read more Written March 10, 2024
• matthew t 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guided Tour of Pompeii ~Riccardo is a true legend in the Guide Status!!!! His knowledge was exceptional and clearly has a true passion for the history of Pompeii. Would highly recommend 👍 Read more Written March 8, 2024
• PidongSu 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Tour Guide Raffaele was our tour guide for Pompeii and Naples. He was amazing. We love Pompeii. He showed us how amazing this city was and made us appreciate the effort archeologist are doing. My family did not want to leave Pompeii. He managed to change our preconceived notion of Naples and made us love the city. We were there for the food tour and did not think much of history. Raffaele managed to incorporate Naples history and culture in our food tour. We even had the controversial pineapple pizza. We appreciated Raffaele's love for his culture and heritage and Naples treasures. He was also very good at managing time and coordinating with our tour driver on traffic and drop off and pick up places. Amazing tour. We will come back for more. Read more Written February 15, 2024
• satz89 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best Pompeii tour and Naples walking food tour! Raffaele was one of the best tour guides we had on our Italy trip. He brought Pompeii to life. He was very knowledgeable and funny. We would keep asking more questions and he did not mind them one bit. He also took us through a walking food tour of Naples which was a lot of fun. By then end, we were stuffed with so much good food. When we come back to see more of Pompeii, we will definitely be booking with him. Oh, he also took the best group pictures we had! Read more Written January 17, 2024
• Odysseus2700 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A highly informative, enjoyable tour Our tour guide, Raf, was knowledgeable and informative. We visited the Museo Archeologico, Herculaneum and Pompeii with him. We had a list of sites and artefacts we specifically wanted to see- as well as seeing the sites more generally. By guiding us through the Museo Archeologico first, he helped us visualise the sites as they would have been before the eruption, pointing out specific artefacts and where they would have been placed at the sites. Raf’s knowledge of both archeology and art was invaluable. He was also friendly and helpful with general tour suggestions. Read more Written January 16, 2024
• Luigi E 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Napoli meravigliosa An incredible experience. We visited Naples with a guide who revealed unknown aspects of our wonderful city. A journey through time with Alessandra, a fantastic guide." Read more Written November 18, 2023
• austinmT6771EI 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles No customer loyalty We received a cancel text the day before tour with no explanation. Still waiting on refund. Unhappy! We are nervous about the rest of the tours we reserved through Viator for the rest of our time in the area. Read more Written November 17, 2023
• Woelin 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Since I was a child watching “ the last days of Pompeii” I wanted to see this. It was certainly worth the wait! We made our tour guide at the gate in for the next two hours, disturbed in amazement and all the majesty that was Pompeii and the science that preserved it at one point my grandson said the Romans were smarter than we are look at the engineering involved. And he’s 15 on this trip with seen the Vatican., The Colosseum and now Pompei. Each tour guide has made us live in that particular site . each guide has educated us joked with us and made us understand life over 2000 years ago. I’m glad I was able to share this experience with my family . I highly recommend this trip. Read more Written November 8, 2023
• kellybT204VV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Federica was excellent Federica was fantastic tour guide. In just 2 hours she managed to show us all of the main areas and her knowledge was superb. The headsets given to us were great because it meant we could hear everything she was saying. Thank you Federica for bringing Pompeii to life. Read more Written October 21, 2023
• Compass44061229264 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Tour This tour was outstanding Maria was our tour guide and she was very knowledgeable telling us about the history of Pompeii Highly recommend One of the best tours of our trip Read more Written October 21, 2023

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Herculaneum Guided Tour with Your Archaeologist provided by Naples Grand Tour

• Amalfi Coast
• Pompeii - Mt. Vesuvius

Herculaneum Guided Tour, entrance fee + Lunch included

What better way to spend a day than exploring one of the world's most famous archaeological sites, Herculaneum, as well as tasting wine and other local delicacies?

• Visit Herculaneum in one day
• A dedicated guide
• Wine and food tasting

This experience will be shared with other guests

Choose your departure location

You can depart from Sorrento

Free cancellation

Up to 7 days in advance

• Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or meeting point
• Transfer via private coach to Herculaneum
• Admission to the ruins with a guided walking tour inside for 1.5 hrs
• Transfer to the “Cantina Vesuvio” winery
• Headsets for groups larger than 10 to hear your guide clearly
• Return to Sorrento in the afternoon

Not included

Important information, printed or mobile voucher accepted.

• From 2 April 2024 to 29 October 2024 (All days)

Additional information

This tour departs at 11:00 a.m. Please indicate the name of your hotel when you book so we can arrange for pick-up from there or the closest meeting point Wear comfortable shoes to tour the archaeological site. Don't forget a hat and sunscreen!

Service provided by Buyourtour

Tours and day trips departing from Sorrento to Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Vesuvio, Ischia, and Procida

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Herculaneum guided tour with an Archaeologist

Walking tour – the tour lasts about 3 hours

As an archaeologist I consider the excavations of Herculaneum a unique, exceptional site. They are the most preserved Roman remains ever. You will visit a Roman city crystallized by a violent eruption of Vesuvius that occurred in the year AD. An exciting experience that will indelibly enrich your travel experience.

Herculaneum was an ancient Roman town located in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, near present-day Naples in Italy. The history of Herculaneum is closely intertwined with the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Here’s an overview of its history:

Foundation and Early History : Herculaneum was founded by Greek colonists around the 7th century BC as a small coastal settlement known as Heraklion. Over time, it grew into a prosperous town, benefiting from its strategic location along trade routes and its fertile agricultural land.

Roman Period : In the 4st century BC, Herculaneum came under Roman control during the expansion of the Roman Republic. Under Roman rule, the town flourished as a resort destination for wealthy Romans, who built luxurious villas along the coast. Herculaneum became known for its opulent architecture, beautiful frescoes, and vibrant social life.

Mount Vesuvius Eruption : On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted catastrophically, burying Herculaneum and several other nearby towns, including Pompeii, under a thick layer of volcanic ash and debris. The eruption preserved the town remarkably well, providing invaluable insights into daily life in ancient Rome.

Rediscovery and Excavation : Like Pompeii, Herculaneum remained buried and largely forgotten for centuries after the eruption. Its rediscovery began in the 1710, when a farmer, digging a well in his land to find water, instead found the marble floor of the Roman theater stage. Excavations have been ongoing since then, revealing a wealth of archaeological treasures, including well-preserved buildings, artifacts, and skeletal remains.

Archaeological Site : Today, Herculaneum is an important archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved ruins of the ancient town, including its streets, houses, public buildings, and even organic remains such as wooden furniture and foodstuffs preserved by the volcanic ash.

Insights into Ancient Life : The excavations at Herculaneum have provided scholars with invaluable insights into various aspects of ancient Roman life, including architecture, urban planning, social structure, economy, and daily routines. The well-preserved state of the town has made it a crucial site for understanding the Roman world and its inhabitants.

Overall, the history of Herculaneum is a testament to the power of nature and the resilience of human civilization. The town’s tragic fate and subsequent excavation have enriched our understanding of ancient history and continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

MEETING POINT + TOUR DURATION

Meeting Point Options:  At the entrance of the Archaelogical Site of Herculaneum.

Duration:  3 hours

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Guiding Service

Visit of the Ruins and of the local Musem

Herculaneum is an incredible ancient Roman city, smaller than Pompeii, but much better preserved. It was a rich city of the Empire that faced the center of the Gulf of Naples; many of his houses are superb and elegant, showing that many of his citizens had achieved good economic prosperity.

Herculaneum is located on the slopes of Vesuvius and for this reason, was completely buried by about 25 meters of pyroclastic materials of the terrible eruption of Vesuvius that occurred in A. D. 79.

Here you will see the incredible: wooden doors, windows, beds, other charred materials and the second floors of the houses. It is an extraordinary archaeological site that has a unique charm in the world.

During the guided tour of Herculaneum you are visiting: – The ancient beach – The scheletons – The house of the dears – A roman fast food – The house of the wodden partition – The Samnite House – The public bathhouse – The house of Neptune and Amphitrite – The decumanus maximus – The house of the bicentenary – The guild of the Augustales

ESTIMATED LOCAL CASH NEEDED

13 € – admission fees to enter in Herculaneum (the price is per person).

Under 18 years old are free of charge.

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Tours of Pompeii

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Pompeii: plan, book, go.

Plan the perfect visit!

Visiting Pompeii

Guide to itineraries and sights

Visiting Herculaneum

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Tips for planning a trip to the Vesuvius crater

Getting here

Practical information on transport options

Tours and excursions

Book guided tours to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius

Frequently asked questions about Pompeii and the surrounding area

Naples-Pompeii train schedules

How to reach Pompeii and Herculaneum quickly and on a budget

Pompeii-Vesuvius bus schedules

Bus operating all year to get to the top of Vesuvius

Day trips from Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and Naples

Choose from our curated, vetted tours. Book now to reserve your spot!

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Free cancellation

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Herculaneum: Guided Tour Departing from Naples

The essential guide to visiting pompeii, herculaneum, and mt. vesuvius.

Schedules, prices, skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and top itineraries

Hours for Pompeii and Herculaneum

April to October : 9 am - 7 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm) November to March : 9 am - 5 pm (last entry at 3:30 pm) Closed : January 1, December 25

Herculaneum

March 16 to May 4 : 9:30 am - 7:30 pm (last entry at 6 pm) May 5 to October 14 : 8:30 am - 7:30 pm (last entry 6 pm) October 15 to March 15 : 8:30 am - 5 pm (last entry 3:30 pm) Closed : January 1, December 25

Tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices at the entrance to each site or through the online ticket office . Do not purchase tours or tickets from street vendors who may approach you at the Circumvesuviana train station!

Skip-the-line tickets to Pompeii

Skip-the-line tickets to Herculaneum

Prices / tickets

Pompeii ticket : Full price €18; discounted €2 Herculaneum ticket : Full price €13; discounted €2

Mastercard and Visa are accepted

Discounted tickets

Entrance is free to all EU citizens under 18. EU citizens under 24 have a special discount.

Luggage deposit

Backpacks or bags larger than 30x30x15 cm cannot be brought into either Herculaneum or Pompeii. The sites offer free baggage storage at the entrance, next to the ticket office.

Should I visit Pompeii or Herculaneum?

The biggest difference between Pompeii and Herculaneum is size: the ruins of Pompeii cover about 44 square hectares, while Herculaneum covers just four .

Pompeii was an important city and trade center , while Herculaneum was a small resort town without the large public buildings (forum, amphitheater, theaters, gym) found in Pompeii.

However, Herculaneum is in a much better state of preservation due to the deep layer of ash and dust that covered the site, which filled the buildings without damaging them. Pompeii was heavily battered by falling rocks and hot air that knocked down the upper floors of buildings and incinerated wood, both of which are still intact at Herculaneum.

All things considered, if you only have time to see one site, choose Pompeii . Herculaneum is a good alternative if you don't want to do too much walking or if the temperatures are particularly scorching, as it has more shade than Pompeii.

We do not recommend visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day, as it is simply too tiring.

The ruins of Pompeii Recommended because: It's a unique example of a perfectly preserved Roman city with temples, theaters, homes, restaurants, and public buildings. It has more sites open to the public and a greater variety of architectural structures to visit. You can experience first hand the majesty of a Roman forum, theater, and amphitheater. Not recommended if: You only have an hour or two, as it takes a significant amount of time and energy to visit. It's a particularly hot day, as there is little shade. Visit Pompeii

The ruins of Herculaneum Recommended because: It's a small town that was a resort destination in ancient times, and can be visited in less that two hours. There are multi-story houses, wooden furnishings and decorations, and perfectly preserved mosaics and sculptures to admire. Not recommended if: You only have time to visit either Pompeii or Herculaneum; we do not recommend attempting both in one day. You want to explore it all, as many of the houses and buildings are not open to the public. Visit Herculaneum

Visiting the crater on Mt. Vesuvius

Combine a visit to pompeii or herculaneum with the mt. vesuvius national park.

Instead of attempting to see both Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day, we suggest a trip up to the crater at the peak of Mt. Vesuvius either before or after visiting one of the archaeological ruins. Wear sturdy shoes and clothes suitable for a short hike up the trail.

Getting from Pompeii to Mt. Vesuvius EAV bus : You can catch the local EAV bus from Piazza Anfiteatro and the Circumvesuviana station 'Pompei Villa dei Misteri.' The bus will drop you off at the upper bus parking lot on Mt. Vesuvius, where you can purchase tickets to the national park and take part in a guided mountain hike. Buses depart every 50 minutes; the ride takes about 55 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on board for €2.70.

Getting from Herculaneum to Mt. Vesuvius Vesuvio Express bus : This bus departs from the Circumvesuviana station 'Ercolano' and reaches 1,050 meters above sea level. From here you proceed on foot with a mountain guide, walking for about 20 minutes. Departures every 40 minutes, starting at 9:30 am. Tickets: €20 (includes bus + entrance to Mt. Vesuvius National Park)

Getting to Pompeii from Sorrento or Naples

The easiest way to reach the Pompeii ruins from Sorrento or Naples is via the Circumvesuviana train that runs between Sorrento and Naples. The train leaves from Piazza Garibaldi in Naples from the underground platforms of the Napoli Centrale station. From the ground-level platforms where high-speed trains arrive and depart, follow the signs downstairs to platform 3 where trains to Pompeii depart. Note the displays that list the next departing train for Sorrento - Pompei so you don't end up in Sarno!

Guide to visiting Pompeii

Guide to visiting Herculaneum

Guide to visiting Mt. Vesuvius

Download the PDF Guide (PDF 278 KB)

Getting to Pompeii and Herculaneum

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