Private Pompeii Tour with Archaeologist Guide

Pompeii , Italy

Private Pompeii Tour with Archaeologist Guide

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About this experience

Experience Pompeii at your own pace on this in-depth private tour with a trained archaeologist. Skip the long lines to enter the UNESCO-listed ruins and discover how everyday life looked nearly 2,000 years ago before Mount Vesuvius’ eruption. Explore more of the ancient city than on standard tours, including shops, baths, temples, and the recently reopened House of the Vettii. Your expert guide brings Pompeii’s streets to life with stories of its people, politics, and tragic final day. With personalized attention and time for questions, this private experience offers a stress-free, enriching journey through one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.

Available options

Private Pompeii Tour with Archaeologist Guide

What's included

Official Pompeii tour guide

Pre-reserved entrance tickets to Pompeii

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin by skipping the long lines and entering Pompeii’s vast archaeological park. Wander through ancient streets where bakeries, shops, and public baths once buzzed with life. Hear fascinating details about the people who lived here and see the plaster casts that preserve their final moments. Next, explore the Forum and Temple of Apollo, the civic and spiritual heart of the city, where politics, religion, and commerce intertwined. Continue to the House of the Vettii, one of Pompeii’s most famous private residences, recently reopened after years of restoration. Admire its frescoes and courtyards that offer a rare glimpse into upper-class Roman life. Finally, stroll along Pompeii’s city walls for sweeping views of Naples and Capri.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Taking the train from Rome to Pompeii is fairly easy. Departure station: "Roma Termini", Arrival station: "Napoli Centrale".

The full names of all participants must be provided at the time of booking and match the names on their ID/passport. Name changes are not permitted.

Walks / Devour complies with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior the start of the tour. This tour meets at the Entrance Gate for the Pompeii Archaeological Park across from the Hortus Pompei restaurant. Your guide will be holding a green walks sign.

Important notes

- This tour meets 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- The full names of all participants must be provided at the time of booking and match the names on their ID/passport. Name changes are not permitted.
- All guests (including children) must bring a government-issued ID/passport on the day of their tour. Failure to bring an ID may result in security staff denying entrance to the monument.
- Taking the train from Rome to Pompeii is fairly easy. Departure station: "Roma Termini", Arrival station: "Napoli Centrale". The fastest train, "Frecciarossa" takes about one hour to Naples. Tickets can be booked at trenitalia.com. When you arrive at Napoli Centrale, transfer to the "Napoli-Sorrento Circumvesuviana" line. Trains depart every 30 minutes to Pompeii. Tickets for this train can only be purchased once you arrive at Napoli Centrale. Exit the train at the "Pompei Scavi - Villa Dei Misteri" stop to meet our tour.
- Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

About Pompeii

Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near modern-day Naples, famously preserved by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It offers a unique glimpse into Roman life, with remarkably well-preserved ruins and artifacts. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world.

Top Attractions

Pompeii Archaeological Park

The main attraction in Pompeii, this vast archaeological site preserves the ruins of the ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It offers a unique glimpse into Roman life and architecture.

Historical 3-5 hours €18 (full price ticket)

Mount Vesuvius

The volcano that famously destroyed Pompeii offers a scenic hike with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. The crater is accessible via a short walk from the summit.

Nature 2-3 hours €10 (entry fee)

Villa of the Mysteries

One of the most famous villas in Pompeii, known for its well-preserved frescoes depicting mysterious rituals. The villa offers insight into the daily life and beliefs of the ancient Romans.

Historical 30-45 minutes Included in the general admission ticket

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pizza Margherita

A classic Neapolitan pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It is a must-try in the region.

Lunch/Dinner Contains dairy and gluten

Spaghetti alle Vongole

A traditional Italian dish made with spaghetti, clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. It is a popular seafood dish in the region.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and gluten

Sfogliatella

A traditional Neapolitan pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese and candied fruit. It is a popular dessert in the region.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Vesuvius Biking in the surrounding countryside Beach visits in nearby coastal towns Wine tasting in local vineyards Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours in the Bay of Naples Visiting nearby ski resorts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The peak season offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. The weather is ideal for exploring the ruins.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Neapolitan
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Pompeii is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or requests for money

Getting there

By air

Naples International Airport • 20 km (12 miles)

By train

Pompeii Scavi - Villa dei Misteri Station

By bus

Naples, Sorrento, Salerno

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available in the modern town of Pompeii, but the archaeological site is best explored on foot.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pompeii Town Ancient Pompeii

Day trips

Naples

25 km (15 miles) • Full day

Naples is a vibrant city known for its rich history, art, and culture. It offers a variety of attractions, including museums, churches, and historic sites.

Sorrento

20 km (12 miles) • Full day

Sorrento is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful views, lemon groves, and traditional crafts. It offers a variety of attractions, including beaches, shops, and restaurants.

Herculaneum

15 km (9 miles) • Half day

Herculaneum is an ancient Roman town that was also buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It offers a unique glimpse into Roman life and architecture.

Festivals

Festa di San Gennaro • September 19 Pompeii Wine Festival • May Napoli Teatro Festival • June to July

Pro tips

Arrive early to the archaeological site to beat the crowds and the heat
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sun protection
Consider hiring a guide or using an audio guide for a deeper understanding of the site
Try traditional Neapolitan pizza and other local dishes in Pompeii and the surrounding region
Visit nearby attractions, such as Naples, Sorrento, and Herculaneum, for a more comprehensive experience