Half-Day Exclusive Private Tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum

Pompeii , Italy

Half-Day Exclusive Private Tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum

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About this experience

If you're a history buff and want to see the wonders of two world renowned archaeological sites, this Exclusive Private Tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum the perfect experience for you! This archaeological adventure provides you with an expert private guide who will tell you all about that ominous day in 79 A.D., when both Pompeii and Herculaneum were destroyed by the powerful Mt Vesuvius eruption.
Most travelers only visit Pompeii but Herculaneum is well worth a visit too, thanks to its impeccable preservation which has given us even more insight into the lives of residents from thousands of years ago. These two towns, once thriving commercial centers, were both completely wiped out away in just one afternoon. This tour will tell you all about that day, their thriving history and culture.
Enjoy this dive back into Ancient Roman History in the intimacy and comfort of your very own Private group. Ask all the questions you wish to your private expert guide, and move at your own pace.

Available options

Half-Day Exclusive Private Tour of Pompeii and Herculaneum

What's included

Skip-the-Line Entrance to both sites

Transfer from Pompeii to Herculaneum

Local Professional and Expert Guide

Private Tour of Pompeii and Hercolaneum

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will begin your tour with a warm welcome from your expert guide who will take you directly into the excavations of Pompeii with skip-the-line access! Your guide will take you on a journey through ancient road mapping, residential planning and marvel sewage systems. Being a valuable commercial trade town, your guide will also take you around the “shops” which lined the streets to catch the attention of traveling tradesmen. The walk through these excavation grounds is fascinating, and you are sure to hear stories worth reading up on once you are back home. You will be visiting the Forum of Pompeii, the pulse of the city where residents practiced religious, economic and commercial life. You will pass the ancient basilica of town, a preserved architectural prototype of the Christian basilica for years to come. One of the more interesting walks in Pompeii is the one through residential neighborhoods where you can hear tales of just how the private residents of Pompeii lived… and loved!

Stop 2

Just a short 5 miles southeast of Naples lies an ancient town which is known by archaeologists, locals and history lovers, a town whose richness and history is on par with that of Pompeii: Herculaneum. Your guide will accompany you on a quick ride to the this site to begin the second half of your adventure.
The town of Herculaneum is often noted as a “better preserved” Pompeii as the volcanic material which covered it helped preserve not only the framework of the homes and buildings, but also the more delicate materials such as wood and other natural substances. This makes for an archaeologist and tourist’s dream! You get to see the very beds and even food remnants left behind from that deadly day. There is no closer look into history than a walk around Herculaneum. Depending on the route for the day, some of the attractions you will see in Herculaneum include the House of Galba, the Thermal Baths and wonderful mosaic floors, the Samnite House and plenty more.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

46 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of Bar Sgambati, Via Villa dei Misteri 1, right next to the Pompeii Scavi Train Station, regional line. Your guide will be holding a LivTours / LivItaly Tours sign.

Important notes

Please arrive at the meeting point 10-15 min prior your tour's start time. Your guide will be holding a LivTours / LivItaly Tours sign and will have your skip the line entry tickets to both sites.

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