Discover more on Herculaneum guided tours

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

Guided Tours in Herculaneum






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A guided tour of Herculaneum is...

✔️ With an expert archaeologist

Explore the ruins of the ancient city with a licensed local archaeologist who shares the science and history behind these excavations in your preferred language option.

✔️ Without the crowds

Avoid the long ticket lines, easily redeem your tickets, meet your guide inside, and get right to exploring. For a more intimate experience, select the private tour.

✔️ Efficiently comprehensive

Within two hours, discover key highlights of this coastal town, like the bakeries, public baths, and boathouses.

✔️ Unique and engaging

Ask all your questions and doubts on the tour and turn it into an interactive experience that broadens your understanding of the once-bustling daily life in Herculaneum.

What to expect on a guided tour of Herculaneum

Skip ticketing lines & meet your expert guide
First glimpse: The elevated parts
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Skip ticketing lines & meet your expert guide

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.

First glimpse: The elevated parts

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.

Walking down into the excavated city

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.

Exclusive access to private homes

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.

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The Forum and central buildings

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.

The Baths: Public and private spaces

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.

The famous skeletons & volcanic preservation

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.

Final stop: The harbor

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.

Reflection and conclusion

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.

Which guided tour is best for you?

Skip-the-Line - Guided Tours

Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with an Archaeologist

The classic option, in a shared group with a multilingual archaeologist guide.

🗣️Available in 5 languages

👥Up to 20 guests per group

⌚2 hours

  • Book now
GT coach with a guided tour

Herculaneum Private Guided Tour with an Archaeologist

The exclusive option, in your preferred group size with a multilingual archaeologist guide.

🗣️Available in 6 languages

👥Up to 10 guests per group

⌚2 hours

  • Book now

From Naples: Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Enjoy comfortable round-trip transport from Naples and back.

🗣️Available only in English

👥Up to 20 guests per group

⌚3 hours

🚙Round-trip AC coach transfers

  • Book now

From Sorrento: Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Board a scenic train and enjoy a panoramic ride along the coast.

🗣️Available only in English

👥Up to 20 guests per group

⌚2 hours

🚅Round-trip train transfers

  • Book now

Highlights of your Herculaneum guided tour

Ruins of Herculaneum

The Forum

Central open space
Herculaneum’s civic heart, once the site of commercial and political activities, now revealing its well-planned public spaces.

Herculaneum Baths
Roman excavations in Herculaneum
Herculaneum Boathouse skeletons
Neptune and Aimone fresco wall painting, Ercolano

Things to keep in mind when you go on a tour

  • ID card: Ensure you have a valid photo ID card that matches the name added during booking.
  • Water bottle: The site covers a large area, and it can be quite warm, so always bring a refillable water bottle.
  • Comfortable footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or comfortable walking sandals. The terrain is uneven, with cobblestone streets, stairs, and dusty paths, making it essential to have proper footwear.
  • Sunscreen & hat: During the warmer months, the site can be quite exposed, so sunscreen and a hat are recommended to protect yourself from the sun.
  • A small visitor center is available at the entrance, offering maps, brochures, and information about the site.
  • There’s a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and educational materials.
  • Accessible routes, ramps, and bridges, including a path along Cardo III, and accessible bathrooms at the entrance, visitor center, and ticket office.
  • No touching the artifacts: It’s crucial not to touch or disturb the ruins and artifacts. This helps preserve the site and ensures the integrity of the historical remains.
  • Respect the guided tour schedule: If you are part of a guided tour, make sure to follow the guide’s instructions and stay with the group. Late arrivals or disruptions can delay the tour for others.
  • Stay on the designated pathways: Stick to the marked walkways and avoid straying into restricted or unstable areas. Many sections of Herculaneum are still in active preservation and excavation.
  • Smoking is not allowed on-site, both for safety and to preserve the environment.
  • Eating and drinking in specific areas may be restricted, so be mindful of local signs. It’s better to eat at designated picnic areas or cafés.
  • Book well in advance during peak seasons, as Herculaneum is one of the most popular sites in Naples.
  • Try a combo tour including Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius to get the complete story of what happened two millennia ago.
  • There are a couple of small cafes or refreshment stands near the entrance/exit for a quick bite or drink.
  • After touring the site, you can visit the small onsite museum that houses artifacts from Herculaneum, including mosaics, statues, and carbonized remains.

Frequently asked questions about Herculaneum guided tours

Do I need to book the tour in advance?

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.

Are there any tours available in languages other than English?

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.

Can I visit Herculaneum without a guide?

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.

Why should I opt for a guided tour of Herculaneum?

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.

How long do Herculaneum guided tours last?

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.

Is there wheelchair access at Herculaneum?

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.

Are there any areas of Herculaneum that are off-limits to visitors?

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.

Can I take photographs during the tour?

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.

What should I wear for the tour?

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.

Are audio guides available as an alternative to a human guide?

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.

Do the guides have professional training or certifications related to Herculaneum?

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.

How can I get to Herculaneum from Naples?

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.

What happens if I'm late for my Herculaneum guided tour?

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.

Is the site child-friendly?

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.

Are there any discounts available for students or seniors?

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.

Are there any special events or temporary exhibits at Herculaneum?

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.

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Skip-the-line tours

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.