Private Herculaneum Ruins Tour & Royal Palace Cooking Class

Campania , Italy

Private Herculaneum Ruins Tour & Royal Palace Cooking Class

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About this experience

Discover a journey where history and flavor intertwine.
Begin with a private guided tour of Herculaneum, the ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Smaller than Pompeii yet even better preserved, Herculaneum offers an extraordinary glimpse of daily Roman life. Walk through elegant villas, mosaics, frescoes, and wooden balconies still intact after two millennia, while your expert guide reveals stories of its inhabitants and the dramatic day the city was frozen in time.
Then enjoy a pleasant 15-minute walk to the nearby Royal Palace of Portici, the 18th-century residence of King Charles of Bourbon. In this majestic setting, join a shared cooking class led by a local chef and learn to prepare fresh pasta and tiramisu following authentic Neapolitan recipes. Finally, relax and savor your creations with local wine — a perfect blend of archaeology, cuisine, and royal charm.

Available options

Private Herculaneum Ruins Tour & Royal Palace Cooking Class

Pickup included

What's included

2 glass of wine per person

Bottled water

Cooking class Experience

Private guide

Entrance ticket to Ruins

Caffè Napoletano

Hands-on preparation and tasting of an authentic Neapolitan dish

Detailed itinerary

Found during the excavation of a well in 1709, the ancient Herculaneum was a Roman town that overlooked the sea with beautiful terraces and sumptuous Otium Villas. Excavations began with the Bourbons through the construction of tunnels still visible today, but for the most part, the city is still buried. Our expert guides will describe the structures that are still intact, the mosaics and the frescoes in bright colors will make you admire the surprisingly preserved wooden doors and stairs and will take you to the ancient beach where the casts of the victims' skeletons are exposed.

It is an amazing experience to introduce you to the traditions of Neapolitan cuisine like Gnocchi, pizza, pasta, meatballs, and tiramisù.
But that’s not all.
The frame of this experience will be the magnificent royal palace of Portici—one of the three residences of the ancient king of the Borboni of Naples.

History and culinary traditions will be the theme of this wonderful experience.
Starting with a welcome aperitif tasting typical products from Campania, we will tell you the story of the Royal Palace of Portici.
Then we will start having fun learning all the secrets to know and create tasty traditional Neapolitan dishes based on fresh and seasonal products.
At the end, we will taste everything together accompanied by a good local wine and a delicious Neapolitan coffee.

What's not included

Auto Privata

Mance

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Sconsigliato ai viaggiatori con intolleranze alimentari

About Campania

Campania is a region in southern Italy known for its stunning Amalfi Coast, the ancient ruins of Pompeii, and the vibrant city of Naples. It offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Italy.

Top Attractions

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline known for its colorful cliffside villages, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking views. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Campania.

Nature/Historical Full day or overnight stay Free to explore, but activities and accommodations can be expensive

Pompeii

Pompeii is an ancient Roman city preserved by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It's one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Historical Half day to full day €15-20 for entry

Naples National Archaeological Museum

This museum houses one of the world's most significant collections of Greco-Roman antiquities, including artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Museum 2-3 hours €15-20 for entry

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano that famously erupted in 79 AD, destroying Pompeii and Herculaneum. Visitors can hike to the summit for stunning views of the Bay of Naples.

Nature/Adventure Half day €10-15 for entry and guided hike

Capri

Capri is a beautiful island known for its stunning landscapes, luxury shopping, and the famous Blue Grotto. It's a popular day trip from Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Island/Beach Full day Ferry €15-25, Blue Grotto €14, other attractions vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pizza Margherita

A classic Neapolitan pizza made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Spaghetti with clams, garlic, white wine, and parsley.

Main Dish Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Ragù Napoletano

A rich, slow-cooked meat sauce served with pasta.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made gluten-free

Babà al Rhum

A small cake soaked in rum and often served with whipped cream.

Dessert Contains alcohol, can be made without rum

Popular Activities

Hiking the Path of the Gods Boat tours to Capri and the Amalfi Coast Scuba diving and snorkeling Mountain biking Beach relaxation Spa treatments Wine tasting Yoga and meditation retreats

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Campania for beach activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Campania is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, especially in Naples. Exercise caution in unfamiliar areas, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Naples International Airport • 5 km from Naples city center

By train

Naples Central Station

By bus

Naples Central Bus Station, Salerno Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Naples is comprehensive but can be crowded. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Naples Historic Center Chiaia Positano Amalfi

Day trips

Isle of Capri

40-50 km from Naples • Full day

The Isle of Capri is a beautiful island known for its stunning landscapes, luxury shopping, and the famous Blue Grotto. It's a popular day trip from Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento

50-60 km from Naples • Half day to full day

Sorrento is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful views, historic center, and as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. It's a great place to explore local culture, enjoy delicious food, and shop for souvenirs.

Caserta Palace

30-40 km from Naples • Half day

The Royal Palace of Caserta is a former royal residence built for the Bourbon kings of Naples. It's one of the largest palaces in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Festivals

Festa di San Gennaro • September 19 Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinarie • First Sunday in June Pizzafest • July (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit Pompeii early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto on the Isle of Capri for a unique and unforgettable experience
Try authentic Neapolitan pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples, one of the most famous pizzerias in the world
Explore the charming towns and villages of the Amalfi Coast, such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, for stunning views and unique shopping opportunities
Take a day trip to the Royal Palace of Caserta, one of the largest palaces in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site