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Your journey begins at Corso Resina, 187 – the main entrance of Herculaneum. Jump past queues with your tickets, go through a short security check, and meet the expert archaeologist who will guide you through the rest of the site. An accessible ramped entrance is available at Cardo III.
The tour typically begins with the upper part of Herculaneum, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the distant Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Your guide will help you understand the initial layers of volcanic ash and how they were essential to the town's preservation.
What you’ll see: An overview of the site’s structure, with an introduction to the ancient streets, buildings, and everyday life during the Roman Empire.
You will then descend toward the heart of the site encased in ash, passing through the modern entrance and stepping down into the ancient city itself. The contrast between the modern world above and the ruins below is striking.
What you’ll see: The well-preserved, carbonized wooden beams, and walls. The guide will point out specific houses, shops, and the remains of businesses like a bakery or laundry, offering insight into daily life.
One of the highlights of the Herculaneum tour is the opportunity to enter the private homes of wealthy Romans. These houses are remarkably well-preserved, with some of the finest frescoes and mosaics surviving almost intact.
What you’ll see: Beautiful frescoes depicting mythological themes, intricate mosaic floors, and marble or mosaic decorations. You will even pass by the iconic library, Villa dei Papyri, where ancient scrolls were unearthed.
The forum is the heart of any Roman city, and Herculaneum is no exception. As you continue through the site, you’ll reach this bustling public area, which was once filled with traders, politicians, and townspeople.
What you’ll see: The remains of public buildings, including the basilica (law courts) and shops, which offer insight into the commercial and social life of the city. Your guide will describe how these structures were used for public life, legal proceedings, and social gatherings.
Herculaneum’s baths are some of the best-preserved in the Roman world, offering a glimpse into Roman social life and hygiene practices. As you enter these large public spaces, you’ll see the advanced engineering used to create the heating system (hypocaust).
What you’ll see: Large pools, mosaic floors, and the intricate heating systems of these baths. Imagine how the Romans would have relaxed and socialized here.
One of the most poignant stops on the tour is at the site of the skeletons. As the surprise eruption of Mount Vesuvius preserved the town under a blanket of volcanic material, the bodies of its residents were trapped in place, offering a haunting yet fascinating look at their final moments.
What you’ll see: Skeletal remains of victims, preserved in dramatic poses. The guide will explain how these individuals were caught in the eruption and how the plaster casts were made, providing a human connection to the past.
The tour often ends near the ancient harbor, where the remains of the dock and ships can still be found. This area gives you a sense of the commercial activities that once thrived in the city. You can also catch a glimpse of the boathouse where a hopeful few had waited to be rescued.
What you’ll see: The remnants of the harbor, including the intricate structures that were used to protect ships, and an overview of how Herculaneum functioned as an important port for trade.
Your guide will conclude the tour by taking you to a vantage point that overlooks the entire excavation site. Here, you’ll have a moment to reflect on the history, the tragedy, and the marvel of Herculaneum’s preservation.
After the tour, your guide will direct you to the exit. If you wish to continue exploring on your own, check out the small museum or relax in the onsite café.
Central open space
Herculaneum’s civic heart, once the site of commercial and political activities, now revealing its well-planned public spaces.
While it’s not always necessary to book a tour in advance, it’s highly recommended during peak seasons (April to October) or if you are visiting with a group. Booking in advance ensures availability, especially for specialized or private tours.
Yes! Many guided tours are available in Italian, Spanish, French, German, and other languages. Make sure to check when booking, as some tours may only offer specific language options on certain days or times.
Yes, you can explore Herculaneum on your own, but a guided tour will enrich your experience by providing historical context, detailed information about the site’s significance, and access to areas that may be harder to understand without a guide. It’s especially helpful for first-time visitors.
Guided tours offer expert insights into the history and significance of Herculaneum, which you may miss out on if you're exploring on your own. With a tour guide, you will gain intimate knowledge of highlights within Herculaneum such as the ancient houses, the grand baths, the gymnasium and more. Plus, all tours include skip-the-line tickets.
The duration of Herculaneum guided tours can vary based on the type of tour and the inclusions. On average, a Herculaneum tour can take around 2 hours.
Herculaneum is an ancient site, and while efforts have been made to improve accessibility, the terrain can be challenging for wheelchair users due to uneven paths, stairs, and steep inclines. However, some areas of the site are more accessible, and there are provisions for those with mobility difficulties. It's a good idea to contact the site in advance for specific accessibility information.
Some parts of the site are under excavation or closed for preservation, meaning they may not be accessible to the public. Depending on the tour you choose, certain areas might be exclusively opened for private tours. Your guide will ensure you’re able to see the most significant highlights while respecting any restricted areas.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Herculaneum. However, flash photography and the use of tripods might be prohibited in certain areas, especially near delicate frescoes or artifacts. Always follow the instructions of your guide regarding photography, and respect the preservation rules.
Wear comfortable shoes with sturdy soles, as the terrain can be uneven and often cobblestone. Dress in weather-appropriate clothing (light and breathable in summer, and layered clothing in winter). A hat and sunscreen are recommended during the warmer months, as parts of the site are exposed to direct sunlight.
Yes, you can book Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide to avail an audio guide experience if you don't prefer an in-person guided tour.
An expert archeologist will walk you through the ruins to explain the significance of the remnants. This guide is not only well-versed with the site but is also a subject matter expert having the necessary academic and professional certifications.
Herculaneum is easily accessible from Naples. You can take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station to Ercolano Scavi Station, which is just a short walk from the site. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or book a private transfer if you prefer a more direct route. Day trips are another convenient, all-inclusive option.
If you're late, you might miss the tour, as these tours tend to start promptly. Latecomers may neither be able to join the group nor receive a refund. Try to arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior so even if get delayed for any reason, you’ll still have some buffer time.
Yes, Herculaneum is a fascinating site for children, as long as they are old enough to handle the walking and uneven surfaces. Some tours may offer a more interactive or family-friendly experience, with guides who tailor the presentation to younger visitors. Always keep an eye on small children, as there are some steep drops and narrow pathways.
Yes, there are usually discounts available for students and seniors, and free entry for children under a certain age (often 18 or under). You can find the current rates on the check-out page, as they may vary depending on the time of year.
Occasionally, Herculaneum hosts special exhibitions, archaeological events, or temporary installations to showcase recent discoveries or provide more in-depth looks at the site’s history. Inquire at the visitor center for any events during your visit.
Follow an expert archaeologist guide on an exclusive tour tailored to your interests.
Inclusions
Private tour of Herculaneum with skip-the-line entry
Expert English, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, or Italian-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Enjoy hassle-free round-trip transport and skip-the-line access on a guided tour to the ancient city of Herculaneum.
Inclusions
Guided tour of Herculaneum with skip-the-line entry
Round-trip transfers from Naples
Fully-fitted GT coach
Journey through two buried cities and a volcano – all featuring in a saga of ash and lava.
Inclusions
Day trip to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius
Round-trip transfers from Pompeii or Naples (as per option selected)
Entry to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius National Park
Audio guide and map of Pompeii
Exclusions
Take a scenic train ride from Sorrento to Herculaneum, skip the lines, and enjoy a guided tour of the ancient city.
Inclusions
Guided tour of Herculaneum with skip-the-line entry
Round-trip express train ticket from Sorrento
Maps
Get expert insights and spot hidden details at Herculaneum’s remarkably preserved ruins on a tour led by an archaeologist.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Easily travel between two sister cities that tell the tale of Vesuvian wrath and primeval urbanity!
Inclusions
Guided tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum with entry
Expert English-speaking archaeologist guide
Digital audio guide in Italian, English, Spanish, French & German
Round-trip train transfers between Pompeii and Herculaneum
Pompeii Express ticket
Visit to Mount Vesuvius (optional)
Round-trip AC coach transfers (optional)
Inclusions
Skip-the-line access to the Herculaneum
Expert English-speaking archeological guide (optional)
Headsets (for groups of 10 or more)
Exclusions
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You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
