Overview
Travel into ancient Herculaneum, forever preserved by the same eruption that destroyed Pompeii.
Herculaneum is an ancient residential town of Greek origins, destroyed, along with Pompeii, by the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was a seaside resort, a smaller town with a wealthier population at the time of its destruction. Covered by a torrent of mud, rather than ash, the ruins are in some ways even better-preserved than those of Pompeii. Because the site was more protected from atmospheric agents and illegal excavators, here you will find a natural preservation of wooden elements, fabrics, and architecture.
Excavations began by accident in 1709 when some workers were digging a well. They discovered a wall, which was later discovered to be one of the stages of the ancient theatre. Later, many human skeletons were uncovered at the ancient shoreline, suggesting that numerous inhabitants attempted to escape, but perished when mountains collapsed and volcanic gases were released.
Embark on a walking tour through the well-preserved Roman villas with portico gardens, fountains, and baths. Admire the wall frescoes and floor mosaics, which are still as they were when the eruption began.
- The guided portion of this tour is 2 hours long.
- We highly recommend comfortable walking shoes be worn for this excursion as the terrain is very muddy and rugged.
- The price of this tour does not include the per person entrance fee of 11€ to Herculaneum.
We have found that there may be a rare occurrence of a port change from Sorrento to Naples. Naples is accessible to the same sightseeing as Sorrento, but is a slightly longer ride. This port requires an increase in cost as the distance from these highlights is further. Your guide will be waiting for you as you disembark. You may have an adjustment to your tour itinerary depending on your exit time, but be assured that your knowledgeable driver will direct you to a satisfying day. This change is an exception to our policy that ship changes will result in a refund. We feel this is in the best interest of the traveler due to the disappointment we have received when the tour is cancelled instead. There will be an additional charge of $100 for the extra mileage. We apologize for your difficult day, but promise that the sun will shine as soon as you meet your driver.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 5 hours