Herculaneum  Tickets

Experience only the best of Herculaneum

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Ruins of Herculaneum
Ancient Roman ruins of Herculaneum with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Tourist photographing frescoes at College of the Augustales, Herculaneum.
Ancient ruins of the Herculaneum Samnite House with stone arches and preserved structures.
Ancient kitchen ruins with stone oven at Herculaneum, Italy.
Ancient relief sculpture depicting figures in Herculaneum archives.
Thermae interior with vaulted ceiling and ancient stone basin, Herculaneum.
Ancient frescoes and mosaics in a room at Herculaneum, part of the Pompeii & Herculaneum guided tour.
Herculaneum frescoes with detailed red and white drapery patterns.
Herculaneum ancient floor frescoes with geometric patterns.
Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.

Tickets

Herculaneum Timed-Entry Tickets

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry.
  • Headphones are recommended for using the digital audio guide.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and a hat, as much of the site is outdoors. The experience runs rain or shine, so a raincoat or umbrella is also recommended.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the site or on tour buses.
  • Food and beverages are not included and may not be allowed in certain areas.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on the premises.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment may be restricted in certain areas.

Accessibility

  • The site is not fully wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travellers with mobility impairments due to challenging terrain and uneven surfaces.
  • Visitors with motor disabilities can request access assistance via ramps at the entrance, but some areas may remain inaccessible.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • No luggage storage is available.

Additional information

  • The guidebook is available only in English and in a digital, downloadable format. No hard copies available.
  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult.
  • The experience itineraries may vary due to restoration work or site restrictions.
  • The site is open from 8:30am to 5pm from 15 October to 15 March (last entry 3:30pm), and from 8:30am to 7:30pm between 16 March and 14 October (last entry 6pm).
  • Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month and select national holidays, and reduced tickets are offered for eligible visitors with valid documentation.
  • For digital audio guides, it is recommended to download the app in advance due to limited data coverage at the site.


Check availability
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Transfers available
Pickup available

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry.
  • Headphones are recommended for using the digital audio guide.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and a hat, as much of the site is outdoors. The experience runs rain or shine, so a raincoat or umbrella is also recommended.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the site or on tour buses.
  • Food and beverages are not included and may not be allowed in certain areas.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on the premises.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment may be restricted in certain areas.

Accessibility

  • The site is not fully wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travellers with mobility impairments due to challenging terrain and uneven surfaces.
  • Visitors with motor disabilities can request access assistance via ramps at the entrance, but some areas may remain inaccessible.
  • Accessible restrooms are available on site.
  • No luggage storage is available.

Additional information

  • The guidebook is available only in English and in a digital, downloadable format. No hard copies available.
  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult.
  • The experience itineraries may vary due to restoration work or site restrictions.
  • The site is open from 8:30am to 5pm from 15 October to 15 March (last entry 3:30pm), and from 8:30am to 7:30pm between 16 March and 14 October (last entry 6pm).
  • Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month and select national holidays, and reduced tickets are offered for eligible visitors with valid documentation.
  • For digital audio guides, it is recommended to download the app in advance due to limited data coverage at the site.

Inclusions #

  • Access to Archaeological Park of Herculaneum

  • Digital audio guide in English, Italian, French, Spanish & German (as per option selected)

  • Digital guidebook (as per option selected)

  • Guided tour with an expert English-speaking archaeologist guide (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip AC coach transfers from Naples (as per option selected)

  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Group listening to archaeologist during Herculaneum tour inside ancient ruins.
Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Herculaneum, Italy.
Remains of Herculaneum house interiors with frescoes and mosaics on walls.
Tour group with archaeologist at Herculaneum site viewing ancient skeletons.
Visitors walking through the ancient ruins of Herculaneum basilica site.
Ancient frescoes and ruins inside a building in Herculaneum, Italy.
Herculaneum mosaic depicting marine life and mythological figures.
Group listening to archaeologist during Herculaneum guided tour, examining ancient ruins.
Aerial view of Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.

Guided Tours

Herculaneum Guided Tour with an Archaeologist

Explore Herculaneum’s ruins with a small-group tour led by an expert guide fluent in your language.

  • Everything you get: Entry tickets to Herculaneum with priority access and a 2-hour guided walking tour led by an expert archaeologist. Explore iconic sites like the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, ancient thermal baths, and vibrant frescoes preserved in time.
  • Why choose this: Benefit from a guide who specializes in Herculaneum’s history, offering deeper context and interpretation along the way. Small group sizes encourage interaction, with headsets provided when needed, so every explanation is easy to hear and follow.
  • Upgrades: Opt for the smaller 20-person group option in multiple languages to move naturally through the ruins, with fewer bottlenecks at popular viewpoints.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr

Explore Herculaneum’s ruins with a small-group tour led by an expert guide fluent in your language.

  • Everything you get: Entry tickets to Herculaneum with priority access and a 2-hour guided walking tour led by an expert archaeologist. Explore iconic sites like the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, ancient thermal baths, and vibrant frescoes preserved in time.
  • Why choose this: Benefit from a guide who specializes in Herculaneum’s history, offering deeper context and interpretation along the way. Small group sizes encourage interaction, with headsets provided when needed, so every explanation is easy to hear and follow.
  • Upgrades: Opt for the smaller 20-person group option in multiple languages to move naturally through the ruins, with fewer bottlenecks at popular viewpoints.

Inclusions #

  • 2-hour guided tour of Herculaneum

  • Access to Archaeological Park of Herculaneum with priority entry

  • Expert English, Spanish, French, German, or Italian-speaking archaeologist guide (as per option selected)

  • Group of 20 or 25 people (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

  • Transfers

What to bring

  • Carry a valid photo ID for ticket verification.
  • Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the pathways are uneven in many areas.
  • Sun protection is recommended (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and keep a bottle of water handy.
  • The site is mostly outdoors and tours run in all weather, so pack a light raincoat or umbrella just in case.

What’s not allowed

  • Large backpacks, suitcases, and oversized luggage cannot be brought inside or stored on-site.
  • Food and drink rules may apply in certain sections of the ruins. Check signage as you go.
  • Pets aren’t permitted, except registered service animals.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and controlled substances are strictly prohibited.
  • Flash photography, tripods, or professional filming equipment may be restricted in some areas.

Accessibility

  • Due to uneven ground and steep paths, the site is not fully suitable for wheelchair users or visitors with reduced mobility.
  • Some entrance ramps can be requested, but a number of areas may remain difficult to reach.
  • Accessible restroom facilities are available.
  • There is no baggage storage at the site.

Additional information

  • Children must remain under adult supervision at all times.
  • Certain sections may close temporarily due to restoration or safety measures, so route order can vary.
  • Opening hours vary seasonally:
    • 15 Oct to 15 March: 8:30am to 5pm (last entry 3:30pm)
    • 16 March to 14 Oct : 8:30am to 7:30pm (last entry 6pm)
  • Free entry is offered on the first Sunday of each month and on select national holidays. Reduced tickets are available for eligible visitors with proper ID.
  • Group sizes may be limited, with headsets are provided for larger groups.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Pompeii ruins with Mount Vesuvius and Herculaneum archaeological site panorama.
Pompeii ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background on Rome to Amalfi Coast day trip.
Tour group with guide in ancient theatre, Pompeii.
Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.
Tourist photographing frescoes at College of the Augustales, Herculaneum.
Pompeii Forum view from via del Foro with ancient columns and distant mountains.
Tour group exploring ancient ruins of Pompeii with stone columns.
Tour guide explaining Pompeii victim cast to tourists.
Stabian Baths in Pompeii with ancient frescoes and stone seating.
Ancient bath chamber with vaulted ceiling at Forum Baths, Pompeii.

Combos

Combo (Save 9%): Pompeii + Herculaneum Tickets

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry (mandatory for Pompeii bookings).
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as both sites have uneven terrain.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as both sites are mostly outdoors.
  • The experience runs rain or shine, so consider a light raincoat or umbrella.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside either site.
    • Herculaneum has no luggage storage, while Pompeii has storage at the Superiore Entrance.
  • Pets are not allowed, except certified service/guide dogs.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on site.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment may be restricted in some areas.

Accessibility

  • Both sites have uneven surfaces and limited wheelchair access.
  • Visitors with mobility challenges may find the experience difficult.
  • At Herculaneum, some areas are accessible via ramps, though portions remain restricted.
  • Accessible restrooms are available at both sites.

Additional information

Herculaneum

  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult.
  • The experience may vary due to restoration work or site restrictions.
  • The site is open from 8:30am to 5pm from 15 October to 15 March (last entry 3:30pm), and from 8:30am to 7:30pm between 16 March and 14 October (last entry 6pm).
  • Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month and select national holidays, and reduced tickets are offered for eligible visitors with valid documentation.

Pompeii

  • Full names must match ID for ticket validation. It's recommended to double-check at checkout.
  • Tickets are free for visitors with disabilities and one companion (issued on-site).
  • Children under 18 enter free with a valid ID.
  • EU citizens aged 18–24 (and non-EU residents with Italian permits) receive reduced tickets.
  • Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.


Check availability
Flexible duration

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry (mandatory for Pompeii bookings).
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as both sites have uneven terrain.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as both sites are mostly outdoors.
  • The experience runs rain or shine, so consider a light raincoat or umbrella.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside either site.
    • Herculaneum has no luggage storage, while Pompeii has storage at the Superiore Entrance.
  • Pets are not allowed, except certified service/guide dogs.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on site.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment may be restricted in some areas.

Accessibility

  • Both sites have uneven surfaces and limited wheelchair access.
  • Visitors with mobility challenges may find the experience difficult.
  • At Herculaneum, some areas are accessible via ramps, though portions remain restricted.
  • Accessible restrooms are available at both sites.

Additional information

Herculaneum

  • Children must always be accompanied by an adult.
  • The experience may vary due to restoration work or site restrictions.
  • The site is open from 8:30am to 5pm from 15 October to 15 March (last entry 3:30pm), and from 8:30am to 7:30pm between 16 March and 14 October (last entry 6pm).
  • Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month and select national holidays, and reduced tickets are offered for eligible visitors with valid documentation.

Pompeii

  • Full names must match ID for ticket validation. It's recommended to double-check at checkout.
  • Tickets are free for visitors with disabilities and one companion (issued on-site).
  • Children under 18 enter free with a valid ID.
  • EU citizens aged 18–24 (and non-EU residents with Italian permits) receive reduced tickets.
  • Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Inclusions #

  • Skip-the-line entry to Pompeii

  • Timed entry to Herculaneum

Exclusions #

  • Transfers between sites

  • Guide

  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Visiting from Naples or Sorrento? Travel stress-free.

The guided tour with round-trip transfers ensures you get to Herculaneum on time and avoid crowded trains or delays. Transport, entry, and your guide are all coordinated, so you can focus on exploring, not logistics.

Tour group with archaeologist at Herculaneum site viewing ancient skeletons.
Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Herculaneum, Italy.
Ancient frescoes and mosaics in a room at Herculaneum, part of the Pompeii & Herculaneum guided tour.
Ruins of the College of the Augustales with frescoes and columns in Herculaneum, Italy.
Traveler waiting with luggage for Vesuvius and Herculaneum tour bus in Naples.
Herculaneum Ruins with ancient stone arches and preserved structures in Italy.
Skeletons of fugitives at Herculaneum entrance, Italy, in ancient stone chambers.
Wooden partition in Herculaneum house interior, Italy.
Aerial view of Herculaneum ruins in Italy, showcasing ancient streets and structures.

Day Trips

Herculaneum Timed Entry Tickets with Round-Trip Transfers

Make the most of your Herculaneum visit with easy departures from nearby cities and ample time to explore the ruins.

  • Everything you get: Travel comfortably from Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii and walk straight into Herculaneum with priority entry. Once inside, explore centuries-old houses, colourful frescoes, wooden structures, and ancient pathways at your own pace for an enriching visit.
  • Why choose this: A seamless way to explore one of the world's best-preserved archaeological sites without the hassle of handling the transits or long ticket queues.
  • Options: Choose your preferred departure point among Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii, each offering fixed scheduled times for a smooth and convenient start to your visit.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
3 hr 45 min
Transfers available

Make the most of your Herculaneum visit with easy departures from nearby cities and ample time to explore the ruins.

  • Everything you get: Travel comfortably from Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii and walk straight into Herculaneum with priority entry. Once inside, explore centuries-old houses, colourful frescoes, wooden structures, and ancient pathways at your own pace for an enriching visit.
  • Why choose this: A seamless way to explore one of the world's best-preserved archaeological sites without the hassle of handling the transits or long ticket queues.
  • Options: Choose your preferred departure point among Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii, each offering fixed scheduled times for a smooth and convenient start to your visit.

Inclusions #

  • Timed entry to Herculaneum

  • Round-trip AC coach transfers from Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii (as per option selected)

  • 3 hours of free time to explore Herculaneum

Exclusions #

  • Live guide

What to bring

  • Carry a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking, as it may be checked during pickup or entry.
  • Wear sturdy and comfortable footwear, as you’ll be walking extensively throughout the visit.
  • Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions and consider bringing sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your visit.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, and bulky luggage are not permitted within the archaeological areas for security reasons.
  • Pets are not allowed, with the exception of certified service animals.
  • Consumption of alcohol, drugs, or participation while intoxicated is strictly forbidden.
  • Drones, tripods, and professional video or photography equipment are prohibited inside the sites.

Accessibility

  • The uneven pathways and inclines within the site make it only partially accessible, which may create difficulties for visitors with limited mobility.

Additional information

  • Your booking voucher includes the pick-up point details in Naples, Pompeii, or Sorrento (usually in the city center), with departures at 9:20am from Naples, 9:10am from Pompeii, and 8:50am from Sorrento.
  • The experience lasts approximately 6 hours from start to finish.
  • The tour operates in most weather conditions. However, in cases of extreme weather, the schedule or route may be modified for safety.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Group of tourists on a Herculaneum private guided tour inside ancient ruins.
Herculaneum Ruins with ancient stone arches and preserved structures in Italy.
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Herculaneum, Italy.
Ruins of the College of the Augustales with frescoes and columns in Herculaneum, Italy.
Customers smiling on air-conditioned bus during Herculaneum tour from Naples.
Group listening to archaeologist during Herculaneum tour inside ancient ruins.
Herculaneum ruins with tourists exploring ancient streets on a guided tour from Naples.
Samnite House interior with ancient frescoes in Herculaneum, Italy.
Ancient columns and walls at Herculaneum ruins in Italy.
Ancient kitchen ruins with stone oven at Herculaneum, Italy.

Guided Tours

Herculaneum Guided Tour with Round-Trip Transfers

Explore Herculaneum the easy way with an all-in-one package including transfers, fast-track entry, and a guided tour.

  • Everything you get: A guided exploration of Herculaneum’s remarkably preserved ruins, including entrance tickets, priority on-site entry, and round-trip transfers from Naples or Sorrento. Benefit from expert commentary, a detailed site map, and the freedom to explore at your own pace after the tour.
  • Why choose this: The most comprehensive and well-structured way to make the most of your time at Herculaneum. Transfers are handled, and the guided visit is clear, informative, and paced for easy understanding from start to finish.
  • Upgrades: Enhance your experience with the full-day option that includes a guided tour of Pompeii along with Herculaneum, either starting from Naples or directly from Pompeii.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr - 8 hr
Transfers available
Pickup available

Explore Herculaneum the easy way with an all-in-one package including transfers, fast-track entry, and a guided tour.

  • Everything you get: A guided exploration of Herculaneum’s remarkably preserved ruins, including entrance tickets, priority on-site entry, and round-trip transfers from Naples or Sorrento. Benefit from expert commentary, a detailed site map, and the freedom to explore at your own pace after the tour.
  • Why choose this: The most comprehensive and well-structured way to make the most of your time at Herculaneum. Transfers are handled, and the guided visit is clear, informative, and paced for easy understanding from start to finish.
  • Upgrades: Enhance your experience with the full-day option that includes a guided tour of Pompeii along with Herculaneum, either starting from Naples or directly from Pompeii.

Inclusions #

  • Priority entry to Herculaneum

  • 2-hour guided tour of Herculaneum

  • Pompeii entry tickets (as per option selected)

  • 2-hour guided tour of Pompeii (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip AC coach transfers from Naples (as per option selected)

  • Round-trip express train ticket from Sorrento (as per option selected)

  • One-way Circumvesuviana ticket from Pompeii (as per option selected)

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry and verification.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven and ancient terrain.
  • Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.
  • Pack an umbrella or raincoat, as the tour operates rain or shine.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, backpacks, luggage, or suitcases larger than 30 x 30 x 15 cm are not allowed inside the sites.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.
  • The tour operator is not liable for any loss of personal belongings.

Accessibility

  • Not recommended for travellers with reduced mobility.
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure as the tour leader will wait only 10 minutes.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • The itinerary may vary depending on site openings, restoration work, or visitor flow.
  • If you have a train, flight, or ship booked on the same day, please inform in advance to help manage your schedule.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Archaeologist explaining Herculaneum ruins to tourists in Naples, Italy.
Ruins of Herculaneum entrance with ancient stone structures and arches, Italy.
Ancient street with ruins and columns in Herculaneum, Italy.
Ancient frescoes and mosaics in a room at Herculaneum, part of the Pompeii & Herculaneum guided tour.
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Herculaneum, Italy.
Tour guide discussing Herculaneum archives with visitors in a museum setting.
Ancient thermopolium ruins in Herculaneum with stone counters and walls.
Skulls and skeletons at Herculaneum ruins excavation site, Naples.
Thermae interior with vaulted ceiling and ancient stone basin, Herculaneum.
Group of tourists on a Herculaneum private guided tour inside ancient ruins.

Private Tours

Herculaneum Private Guided Tour with an Archaeologist

See more of Herculaneum with an experience designed around what captivates you the most.

  • Everything you get: Bypass ticket queues to enter Herculaneum. Benefit from a private tour led by an archaeologist who explains key areas at a comfortable pace. See well-preserved frescoes, intact structures, and the excavated shoreline while gaining clear insight into daily life and the eruption.
  • Why choose this: With a flexible multilingual tour and focused attention, the experience feels comfortable and well-paced. You’re able to notice details, understand their significance, and genuinely take in the site without being rushed or crowded.


Check availability
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
Guided tour

See more of Herculaneum with an experience designed around what captivates you the most.

  • Everything you get: Bypass ticket queues to enter Herculaneum. Benefit from a private tour led by an archaeologist who explains key areas at a comfortable pace. See well-preserved frescoes, intact structures, and the excavated shoreline while gaining clear insight into daily life and the eruption.
  • Why choose this: With a flexible multilingual tour and focused attention, the experience feels comfortable and well-paced. You’re able to notice details, understand their significance, and genuinely take in the site without being rushed or crowded.

Inclusions #

  • Private tour of Herculaneum

  • Fast-track entry to Herculaneum

  • Expert English, French, Spanish, or German-speaking guide (as per option selected)

  • Maximum of 10 guests

Exclusions #

  • Transfers
  • The Northen Cardo
  • The House of the Skeleton
  • The Thermal Baths
  • The Temple of the Augustali
  • The House of Neptune and Amphitrite
  • The House of the Wooden Partition
  • The Gymnasium
  • The Terrace of Nonius Balbus
  • The beach

What to bring

  • Carry a valid photo ID for verification at entry.
  • Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear as some paths are uneven.
  • Sun protection is recommended (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), along with a bottle of water.
  • The visit runs in all weather conditions, so pack a light raincoat or umbrella if needed.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, trolleys, and oversized luggage cannot be taken inside the site.
  • Food and drinks may not be allowed in certain zones of the site.
  • Pets are not allowed, except for certified service animals.
  • Smoking, alcohol, and prohibited substances are strictly forbidden within the site.
  • Flash photography, tripods, and professional film equipment may have restrictions depending on area rules.

Accessibility

  • Due to uneven ground and excavation terrain, the site is not entirely suitable for wheelchair users or visitors with reduced mobility.
  • Some ramps and assistance may be available at the entrance, but several areas may remain inaccessible.
  • Accessible restrooms are available.

Additional information

  • Children must remain under adult supervision throughout the visit.
  • Certain routes or areas may occasionally be closed for conservation or restoration work.
  • Opening hours vary by season:
    • 15 Oct – 15 March: 8:30am–5pm (last entry at 3:30pm)
    • 16 Mar – 14 Oct: 8:30am–7:30pm (last entry at 6pm)
  • Free entry is offered on the first Sunday of each month and selected national holidays, and discounted entry is available for eligible visitors with valid documentation.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

From happy customers

Loved by 50 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Charasson E

France
Couple
Last week

+6 more

A wonderful organization for a magical tour. An exceptional way to skip the lines for a magnificent experience and an unforgettable moment. Don't hesitate to use this app.

Lucy L

United States
Couple
2 weeks ago
Our visit to Herculaneum was spectacular... We took the train from Naples and walked to the entrance, absolutely delighted. We picked up an audio guide and started the tour with it... We had a great time and learned a lot... But since we're getting on in years, we were so tired by the end that we couldn't make it all the way to Pompeii—we'll try to go another day...

Sara B

Spain
Group
2 weeks ago

+2 more

Take your time exploring the ruins—a walk through history well worth the visit, complete with commentary. The audio guide is very clear and lets you hear the sound of carriages rolling down the streets.

Susan B

Couple
2 weeks ago

+4 more

Our guide Antonella was the best. Very informative and you can tell she really loves what she does. Lovely lady and we envied her being an archaeologist. Amazing 2hrs spent with her. Sue,Hev,Jan & Maggie Bath. England

Malgorzata M

Poland
Family
Jan 2026

+1 more

A very well-organized trip, everything on time. A little more time would have been useful in Pompeii. We will definitely come back here again.

Gjøa R

Norway
Group
Last week
Nice way to see both Vesuv and Herculaneum. However we did miss a map before visit to Heculaneum, and app on the phone was not reliable and did not function as it should.

Matt D

United States
Couple
Last week
Our guide Giovanni was extremely knowledgable and able to easily answer any questions this history nerd could think of. Incredibly well preserved, would highly recommend, especially with Giovanni!

Castell R

France
Couple
Last week
Our guide, Alfredo, was fantastic—really friendly, a true archaeologist, and incredibly knowledgeable about history. It wasn’t a rushed tour; in fact, it went a little over time and felt more intimate than the one in Pompeii. You can really get a sense of how people lived in the past.

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TL;DR

  • Ways to explore: Enter with timed entry tickets for a relaxed, self-guided visit, or choose a guided tour to understand the site’s layout, homes, and remarkably preserved details. Audio guides are available for flexible pacing.
  • What guided tours add: An archaeologist-led tour brings daily life, street structure, and preservation methods into focus, making it ideal if you want the story behind what you’re seeing rather than just walking the ruins.
  • Combo options: You can pair Herculaneum with Pompeii for a fuller picture of the 79 AD eruption and how each site was impacted differently.
  • Queues & access: The site is calmer than Pompeii, but timed entry helps during weekends and peak months. Some areas can be temporarily closed for conservation.
  • When to book: Secure tickets 1–2 weeks ahead in high season to guarantee preferred time slots and tour availability.
  • Good to know: Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Surfaces are uneven — comfortable walking shoes recommended. Tickets are generally time-specific and non-refundable.
  • Best upgrade: Choose a guided tour that includes transport from Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii to avoid navigation hassles and enjoy a richer, more connected understanding of the site.

Which Herculaneum ticket is best for you?

Ticket typeQueues bypassedIncludesWhy pick this?Price fromRecommended tours

Self-guided visit

✅ Ticket queues

Site entry + Multilingual audio guide or English guidebook

You decide the pace and path, with optional add-ons to deepen context

€16

Timed Entry Tickets

Archaeologist-led tour

✅ Ticket queues

Site entry + Expert guide

Gain a clearer picture of daily life and how the site was preserved

€35.55

Guided Tour w. Priority Entry

Day trip with transfers

✅ Ticket queues

Site entry + Transfers from Naples, Sorrento, Pompeii

Everything’s arranged for you, no need to figure out transport or timings

€70

Guided Tour with Transfers

Private tour

✅ Ticket queues

Site entry + Expert guide (Small group)

The guide focuses on your interests and questions throughout the visit

€330

Private Guided Tour

Roman ruins combo

✅ Ticket queues

Entry to both sites

Covers both major Vesuvian ruins in one straightforward combo

€41.14

Pompeii + Herculaneum Entry

What to expect at Herculaneum?

Ruins of Herculaneum entrance with ancient stone structures and arches, Italy.
Herculaneum ruins with tourists exploring ancient streets on a guided tour from Naples.
Wooden partition in Herculaneum house interior, Italy.
Carbonised wooden shelves in an ancient room at Herculaneum, Italy.
Samnite House interior with ancient frescoes in Herculaneum, Italy.
Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.
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Start at the ancient shoreline

Begin your visit near what was once the town’s waterfront. The first impression is striking: quiet stone arches and boathouses where residents once gathered, offering an immediate sense of the site’s human history and its close relationship to the sea.

Explore streets frozen in time

Walk along narrow lanes lined with houses, workshops, and public buildings. The scale feels personal, closer and more intact than Pompeii, allowing you to imagine everyday Roman life in detail, from family routines to neighborhood activity.

Step inside remarkably preserved homes

Enter villas where colorful frescoes, mosaics, and wooden furnishings are still visible. Some upper floors and balconies remain in place, giving you a rare view of how multi-level Roman homes were designed, decorated, and lived in.

See objects that survived the eruption

Because Herculaneum was buried in volcanic mud rather than ash, organic materials endured. Charred wooden beams, doors, shelves, and food remains reveal the textures of daily life with surprising clarity, bringing the ancient world closer than expected.

Learn through thoughtful interpretation

Signs, reconstructions, and optional guides help explain architecture, family life, commerce, and the community’s final moments. Rather than just examining ruins, you follow a narrative that connects the site to real people and real stories.

Pause at the panoramic viewpoints

Towards the end, elevated walkways give sweeping views of the excavated town framed by the modern city above. It’s a moment to take in the layers of time, and reflect on how a thriving coastal town was both lost and preserved in an instant.

Things to know before booking your Herculaneum tickets

  • Book ahead: Slots can book out on weekends and during peak travel months. Reserving earlier ensures you enter at your preferred window.
  • Standard timed entry: Ideal if you want to explore independently. You’ll bypass the ticket queue and walk through homes, bathhouses, and ancient streets at your own pace. You can add a multilingual audio guide or a digital guidebook for extra context during your visit.
  • Guided walk with expert insights: A highly recommended upgrade for first-time visitors. Your archaeologist guide explains how the site was buried and preserved, highlights daily Roman habits, and points out architectural and artistic details that are easy to overlook. This makes the experience more engaging and meaningful.
  • Convenient day trip options: Perfect if you're staying in Naples, Sorrento, or Pompeii. Round-trip transfers and priority entry are included, so there’s no need to figure out routes or timings. You simply travel with your group, explore the site, and return comfortably, a seamless and time-efficient option.
  • Private tours for a more intimate visit: Explore Herculaneum at a pace that suits you, with your small-group private guide leading the way. Ask questions freely, focus on the details you care about most, whether that's daily life, fresco techniques, or volcanic history, and enjoy a more personal, conversational experience that’s ideal for families, couples, and small groups.
  • Roman ruins combo: A smart pick if you're visiting both sites. You get entry to Herculaneum and Pompeii under a single booking, simplifying your planning while offering better overall value. 
  • Site conditions: Ongoing restoration means some rooms, houses, or viewing areas may be closed without prior notice. The layout of accessible areas can change.
  • Accessibility: Paths are uneven with steps and narrow walkways. While more compact than other archaeological sites, Herculaneum may still be difficult for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility.
See More, Miss Less with a Guided Tour

Herculaneum is filled with details that are easy to overlook. Going with an expert guide means you’ll understand the homes, frescoes, daily life, and the eruption’s timeline, not just walk past the ruins. Perfect if you want the site’s story to truly come alive.

Archaeologist explaining Herculaneum ruins to tourists in Naples, Italy.

Herculaneum highlights

Amphitheater at Villa of the Papyri with visitors exploring the site.

Villa of the Papyri

A luxurious seafront villa believed to have belonged to Julius Caesar’s father-in-law. It once held the only known library of ancient carbonized papyrus scrolls, alongside a remarkable collection of bronze and marble statues. The scale and layout reflect the refined leisure and cultural life of Rome’s elite.

Mosaic of Neptune and Amphitrite at Herculaneum's House of Neptune, Italy.
Samnite House interior with ancient frescoes and mosaic floor in Herculaneum, Italy.
Wooden partition in Herculaneum house interior, Italy.
Tourist exploring ancient Herculaneum baths interior, Italy.

Plan your visit to Herculaneum

Aerial view of Herculaneum ruins with Mount Vesuvius in the background, Italy.
  • Opening hours: 
    • March 16th – October 14th: 8:30am – 7:30pm (last entry at 6pm)
    • October 15th – March 15th: 8:30am – 5pm (last entry at 3:30pm)
  • Closed: January 1 & December 25
  • Free entry: First Sunday of each month (expect heavier crowds)
  • Average visit duration: 2–3 hours

Best time to visit

  • Time of day: 8:30am for cooler temperatures and quieter streets; After 4pm for soft golden light over the ruins
  • Day of week: Weekdays are calmer; weekends see more tour groups
  • Season: April–June and September–October for pleasant weather; July–August can be very hot (shaded areas are limited)
Herculaneum opening hours
  • Address: Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano NA, Italy
  • By Train:
    • From Naples or Sorrento: Take the Circumvesuviana line to Ercolano Scavi (station → site entrance is a 10-minute walk downhill).
    • Trains run every ~20 minutes.
  • By Bus: EAV or local buses operate from Naples, but travel times vary due to traffic.
  • By Car: Paid parking available near the entrance, but narrow one-way streets can be tricky.
  • Round-trip transfers available: From Naples, Pompeii, and Sorrento, with guided tour included.
Washroom
  • Mostly open-air site with limited shade, bring sun protection.
  • Restrooms near the entrance (none inside the ruins).
  • Cafe and small snack kiosks by the ticket office.
  • Water fountains are available inside; carry a refillable bottle.
  • Not fully wheelchair accessible: Uneven Roman roads and steps throughout.

Tips & Guidelines

  • Start with the boat houses: This is where the 300 victims were found. It frames the emotional context of the site from the beginning.
  • Walk the main street: It’s the clearest visual of daily Roman life, shops, counters, and second floors still intact.
  • Look for preserved wood: Herculaneum’s unique carbonization lets you see doors, furniture, shelves, and beams still in place.
  • Wear good shoes: The Roman paving stones are irregular and can be slippery when wet.
  • Shade is limited: Carry water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially in summer.
  • Photography: Allowed throughout, but flash photography and drones are prohibited
  • 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.

Frequently asked questions about Herculaneum tickets

This ticket grants priority entry and access to the full archaeological park. You’re free to explore the preserved streets, houses, baths, and shoreline areas at your own pace.

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