The small seaside town of Herculaneum really packs a punch – a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient Roman life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. On this tour, you’ll walk through streets frozen in time, from bustling markets to luxurious villas and artefacts. Ciro, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Can you believe that everything in Herculaneum was buried 30 metres deep under ash? That’s why the ruins are so well-preserved – even more so than Pompeii. It’s really like stepping into a real-life history book.’
The tour kick starts with a glimpse into ancient daily life. You’ll make a pit stop at the bakery and the Forum, letting your imagination run wild picturing the Romans socialising in the bathing areas – snapping up pics of dolphin mosaics and geometric tiles. Wandering along, your local expert will give you the inside scoop on the hobbies, work, and diet of the tunic-clad citizens. And, you’ll have the chance to see how the wealthy lived in lavish waterfront villas, decked out with frescoes, mosaics and marble plaques.
Next up, you’ll visit the Boat Pavilion, where you’ll come face to face with a real-deal Roman vessel that once sailed to the rescue of Herculaneum’s citizens. It’s the perfect backdrop for some epic selfies. And, to top it all off, make your way to the antiquarium where you'll be surrounded by a mind-blowing collection of sculptures, frescoes, jewellery, and everyday Roman knick-knacks.
