Pompeii and Herculaneum Private Walking Tour with an Archaeologist
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Pompeii and Herculaneum Private Walking Tour with an Archaeologist

Active
(76 reviews)
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A marvellous archaeological walk at the discovery of the ancient cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, both buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

With this tour, you’ll start your journey in Herculaneum. Smaller than Pompeii but incredibly well-preserved, this ancient city offers a unique glimpse into Roman life. Your licensed expert Archaeologist guide will take you through remarkable highlights such as wooden doors, intricate frescoes, and the ancient beach where more than 300 skeletons were uncovered.

After this fascinating visit, take a quick break before continuing to Pompeii. Here, your guide will show you the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Forum – the heart of Pompeii’s social and political life – as well as its grand houses, public buildings, and the famous plaster casts of the victims frozen in time by the eruption.

This immersive experience will give you an unforgettable understanding of life in these two extraordinary ancient cities.

Available options

Pompeii and Herculaneum Tour

What's included

Private Tour
Guidance and assistance by an Archaeologist guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Transfer by train to Herculaneum (30 minutes trip + 10 minutes walk) and quick lunch break if required.

Meeting place is the Ticket Office of the Herculaneum ruins.

You can get there as follows:
- By car in via Pignalver (There is a not guarded parking very close the meeting place)
- By train in Corso Resina 1 (Circumvesuviana train station is 10 minutes walk away)

2

The house receives its name from marble statues of stags/deer found in the peristyle.

3

M. Nonius Balbus was the city's major benefactor restoring and building many public buildings. On his death he was made patron and feted with many honours, detailed in the long inscription on his funeral altar.

4

It is thought that the building was a centre of the cult of the Emperor Augustus and the headquarters of the Collegium Augustalium (or possibly even the local curia).

5

The house possibly belonged to one of the town's leading benefactors, Marcus Nonius Balbus and is somewhat unusual in that it has its own private access to the adjoining Suburban Thermae to the south.

6

It is very important house for the elegant wooden partition remained.

7

The House of the Skeleton probably the aggregation of three smaller buildings, derives its name from the discovery of human remains in a second floor room in 1831.

8

The Central Thermae were built around the beginning of the 1st century AD and were divided, as was then the common practice, into men's and women's baths, each with their own separate entrances.

9

The House of the Black Hall is one of Herculaneum's more luxurious mansions.

The house has a monumental entrance which still retains the carbonised remains of the doorposts and lintel.

10

The house has an arrangement that was typical of the Samnites (an ancient people of the Sabine race who occupied this mountainous part of central Italy). The splendid atrium is skirted by a gallery with Ionic columns. The rooms are decorated with frescoes.

11

This is one of the most original houses in Herculaneum. It has a courtyard with a stairway and a stone balcony instead of an atrium.

12

Beautiful domus in the Centre of the archaeological area, with various environments, collonnati, frescos e-com everywhere at Herculaneum-charred remains of wooden parts.

13
Stop 13

Meet the guide at the main entrance of the archaeological site called "Porta Marina Superiore". The guide will be holding a sign with our company's name "Askos Tours" on the top.

14
Stop 14

Visit the most famous brothel in the ruined Roman city of Pompeii.

15
Stop 15 Pass by

Walk through the main street of Pompeii.

16

Have a look of the ancient main square of Pompeii.

17

In the granary you will see marble tables and baths for fountains that adorned the entrances of houses and some casts of victims of the eruption as well as that of a dog and a tree.

18

Basilica was an open portico that gave shelter to merchants and other activities.

19
Stop 19

These occupy a vast area between the Brothel lane, the Holconius crossroads and the Via Stabiana. They represent the oldest thermal complex in the city.

20

The house of Faun was one of the largest and most impressive private residences in Pompeii.

21

The house of Menander is one of the richest and most magnificent houses in ancient Pompeii in terms of architecture, decoration and contents.

22

Visit the most important Theater in Pompeii

23

Have a look of the so called Teatro Piccolo of Pompeii.

What's not included

Herculaneum entry tickets - 'Pompei express' entry tickets
Any kind of transportation to the sites
Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide
DE PT CMN JA EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
15 reviews
5★
13
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
61 reviews
5★
57
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Sunglasses and sunscreen are suggested
Comfortable shoes are required, NO flip flops
Herculaneum ruins' entry tickets: 16 euros (adult) 2 euros (EU citizens 18-25 y.o.)

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide at the ticket office of Herculaneum Ruins

Important notes

Ticket redemption will be managed by the tour guide directly on spot.

About Naples

Naples, Italy's third-largest city, is a vibrant and chaotic metropolis known for its rich history, incredible food, and vibrant street life. As the birthplace of pizza, Naples offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, stunning coastal views, and a bustling urban atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Naples National Archaeological Museum

One of the most important archaeological museums in the world, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the Roman era, including those from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Museum 2-3 hours €15

Pompeii

The ancient Roman city of Pompeii, preserved by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Historical Half day to full day €15

Castel dell'Ovo

A medieval castle located on the former island of Megaride, connected to the mainland by a causeway. It offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples and a rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Mount Vesuvius

The famous volcano that erupted in 79 AD, destroying Pompeii and Herculaneum. It's an active volcano and offers a unique hiking experience with breathtaking views.

Nature Half day €10

Galleria Umberto I

A beautiful 19th-century shopping gallery with a stunning glass and iron roof, elegant shops, and cafes. It's a great place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to enter

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pizza Margherita

The original Neapolitan pizza, made with simple ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. It's a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and a must-try in Naples.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy.

Spaghetti alle Vongole

A classic Neapolitan dish made with spaghetti, clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley. It's a delicious and simple representation of the local seafood cuisine.

Dinner Contains gluten and seafood.

Sfogliatella

A traditional Neapolitan pastry made with layers of crispy, flaky dough filled with sweet ricotta cheese and semolina. It's a popular breakfast or snack item.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Babà al Rhum

A small, rum-soaked cake that's a popular dessert or afternoon snack in Naples. It's often served with whipped cream or pastry cream.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Vesuvius Boat tours to nearby islands Scuba diving in the Bay of Naples Beach relaxation on the Amalfi Coast Spas and wellness centers Coffee and pastry at historic cafes Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The peak season offers the best weather for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are manageable.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Italian
  • Widely spoken: English, Napolitan (local dialect)
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Naples is a vibrant and exciting city, but it can also be chaotic and overwhelming. While violent crime is relatively low, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams is common, especially in tourist areas. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always ensure the meter is running.

Getting there

By air
  • Naples International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train

Napoli Centrale, Napoli Garibaldi

By bus

Napoli Centrale, Napoli Garibaldi

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean and efficient but has limited coverage. It's useful for reaching major attractions and connecting to other public transport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Storico) Chiaia Posillipo Quartieri Spagnoli

Day trips

Pompeii
25 km • Half day to full day

The ancient Roman city of Pompeii, preserved by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Herculaneum
15 km • Half day

An ancient Roman town, also preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Herculaneum is smaller and less crowded than Pompeii, offering a more intimate and well-preserved look at Roman life.

Sorrento
50 km • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its stunning views of the Bay of Naples, lemon groves, and historic center. It's a popular destination for day trips from Naples.

Festivals

Festa di San Gennaro • September 19 Pizzafest • June Napoli Teatro Festival • June to July

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to communicate with locals and enhance your experience.
  • Try the local specialties, such as pizza, seafood, and pastries, and support local businesses.
  • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Visit the historic center and other attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
  • Use public transportation, walk, or bike instead of driving to reduce your environmental impact and experience the city like a local.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook