In 79 A.D., fierce volcanic eruptions buried several towns and villas that hugged the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius with molten lava and ash. Many of these sites were not unearthed until the modern era, when in the late 18th century, the Bourbon kings of Naples financed vast excavation efforts that greatly enriched the royal collections. Ironically, the volcanic material that settled upon the ancient settlements preserved homes, stores, temples, and bodies to frightening accuracy, allowing for an in-depth investigation into the ancient life and culture of the area. 

On this Full-Day Pompeii and Herculaneum Tour, we dive into the two ancient cities with an archaeologist or classical historian, marveling at and being moved by the remains that have astonished viewers since their discovery while developing an in-depth understanding of the importance of these finds.

Our day begins in Pompeii, where we will spend the full morning exploring the site and imagining life before the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius that changed the course of history.  We will explore the depth and breadth of the site with an expert who will bring the ancient history of Pompeii to life.

Throughout the day, we will be chauffeured with a car service and will travel in the good company of an expert guide, specialized in archaeology or classic history who also possesses a deep knowledge of the individual sites and the overall context of the Campania region during antiquity and its relationship to Rome, who ruled the area at that time.

After lunch in a local trattoria, we will set out for Herculaneum, located just nearby.  Although less well-known then its neighbor, Pompeii, Herculaneum was discovered first and excavated a few years before the larger city.  While smaller than Pompeii, Herculaneum holds clues to ancient life among the wealthier classes and helps to complete our understanding of ancient life.

Those interested in a briefer look at the archaeological remains may prefer our Half-Day Pompeii Tour, while families should see our Pompeii for Kids Tour.

NOTE: This tour includes a car service that will pick you up at your accommodation in Naples. Please include your hotel or apartment address in the 'Additional Details' box while adding the tour to your shopping cart.

For this tour, your tickets are pre-purchased which allows you to skip the ticket office line upon arrival at the venue. You may still have to wait in a security line or in a line to have your pre-purchased ticket scanned.   

Is the cost of lunch included in the full-day Pompeii excursion from Naples?
No, you'll be responsible for the cost of lunch for you and the guide.

Can I be picked up from a location outside of Naples?
Yes, in most cases, we can arrange pickups from locations such as Port of Naples, Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento. Please let our team know when booking, and we’ll confirm availability and make the necessary arrangements

Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.