Stay away from the crowds of Pompeii and step back 2000 years with your knowledgeable guide. Get immersed in a Roman Town buried under 70 feet of volcanic debris during the Roman Empire. You will enter the ancient houses of Herculaneum, its shops, taverns, bathhouses, and more. Do not expect a visit to some old Town on ruins: you will enjoy unique visions of mosaics, frescoes, and…skeletons!
The availability of buildings open to the public changes continuously, following is just an example of a possible itinerary.
Your private guide will be holding up a sign with your name on it right at the main and only ticket office.
Herculaneum is not as large as Pompeii: it can be visited quite thoroughly in about 2 hrs.
The first approach is spectacular: the ancient town sits at the bottom of an archaeological hole about 60 feet deep. From the top, you can see the entire excavated area at once, dominated by the impressive silhouette of Mt. Vesuvius in the background: a stunning view and a great photo opportunity!
At the very bottom lays the marina, where about 300 human skeletons were found with a fossilized boat and some fishing tools.
Crossing a modern bridge, we will start to discover the garden of the “House of the Albergo”, where quince trees were replanted following the evidence of carbonized roots of these ancient fruit trees.
Our next stop is the Council Hall of the Augustali, where you can admire beautifully preserved frescoes depicting Hercules.
You will visit the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, to see the wonderful mosaics decorating the outdoor ‘biclinium’ (dining room); this was probably the house of a merchant. In fact, it was related to a shop with its counter, containers for food and wine, and fossilized wooden shelves still hanging on the walls!
Then you will discover the Bath House (an ancient Spa), still covered with mosaics. It will introduce you to the world of Roman Daily Care and social life: a gym, a changing room, a tepid room, a hot room, and at last a cold tub.
Nearby, the Grande Palestra – a large outdoor Gym – is a glorious public sporting place. It remains buried for about three-quarters, but we can move underground into the cross-shaped pool. It feels like being an archaeologist moving under the volcanic couch.
Not to be missed is at least one of the nearly intact private houses, according to availability, where we can admire luxurious mosaics, frescoes, and statues.
Herculaneum is not as large as Pompeii. In a 2-hour visit we can see most of the ancient town and most of the highlights. Our walking tour adjusts to the interests and walking attitudes of the participants. Also, the itinerary is subject to the availability of different areas that may change without notice.
Tour Reviews
My family (aged between 8 and 70 years old) spent a wonderful morning with Fabrizio exploring Herculaneum.
Fabrizio is very friendly, fun and engaging, but most importantly incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history of Herculaneum. He shared this passion and knowledge so well that my 11 year old son tells me this was the best day of any holiday he’s ever had. My 8 year old who is less interested in facts/history was kept engaged with some games/activities along the way. The adults in the group were equally well attended to – there was something for everyone.
Communication with Leisure Italy was fantastic throughout the booking process. On the morning of the trip Fabrizio messaged me to let me know he had arrived and where to meet him when we were ready. Fabrizio’s English was perfect! Fabrizio picked us up at the port and drove us to Herculaneum – the car was comfortable, spacious (8 seater) and driven safely (we experienced no hair raising moments on Italian roads!) A booster seat was provided for my 8 year old.
I would highly recommend this trip to families wanting to visit Herculaneum.