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Rating Star

4 (13)

Location Icon Sorrento

Herculaneum Tour: Lunch, Ticket & Expert Guide!

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Explore the amazing ruins of Herculaneum on the "Guided Tour of Herculaneum with Lunch and Ticket Included." This UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Sorrento and buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., offers a peek into ancient Roman life. It is not as large as Pompeii, but it is just as important. Discover how the people of Herculaneum lived and worshiped, especially their connection to the hero Hercules, who they believed founded their city.

With a local expert guide, visitors can walk through the perfectly preserved ruins. The tour starts at Bar Kontatto in Sorrento and makes its way through Lauro Square before arriving at Herculaneum. Expect to see important places like the public baths with colorful frescoes and mosaics, busy shops, and the gymnasium where people exercised. You will also visit key stops such as the House of Q. Granius Verus, marvel at the Mosaics of Neptune and Amphitrite, see the Skeleton House, Sacellum of the Augustales, House of the Hotel, and House of the Black Salon. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and light lunch featuring local products at Sorrentino Vini.

This walking tour, led by an authorized English-speaking guide, will help visitors immerse themselves in the daily life of Herculaneum’s residents. With entrance tickets and headphones provided, it's easy to hear the guide's insights. Note that this tour provides an A/C bus for comfortable transportation. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Expert Local Guide: Explore Herculaneum with an authorized, English-speaking guide who knows all the secrets of the city.

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Skip the Line Entry: Get reserved entrance to Herculaneum and save time.

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Delicious Lunch and Wine: Enjoy a wine tasting and light lunch with tasty local food.

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Comfortable Transport: Travel in a semi-private, air-conditioned bus.

Sentiment Analysis

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Most people really liked the tour of Herculaneum. They thought the guide was great, and they learned a lot. The lunch and wine were a nice bonus for many. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Travelers loved having a nice guide who knew a lot about the place.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed the lunch and wine tasting after seeing the old city.

    Positive Highlight Icon People thought the transportation was easy and comfortable.

    Positive Highlight Icon Visitors were happy the tour was not too crowded.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some people wanted more time to look around on their own.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few visitors did not like the food at lunch.

The Journey

1

Sorrento

Welcome to Sorrento, a captivating town perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Steeped in myth and history, Sorrento was once believed to be the home of the sirens who lured sailors with their enchanting songs. Today, it's a vibrant destination famous for its stunning coastal views, fragrant citrus groves, and charming historic center. Wander through the bustling Piazza Tasso, sample local limoncello, and soak in the breathtaking sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Sorrento's blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Italian charm makes it an unforgettable starting point for your adventure.

2

Bar Kontatto, Lauro Square

Begin your adventure at Bar Kontatto, a local hub in Lauro Square. A perfect meeting point before diving into the wonders of the region, Bar Kontatto serves as an iconic local spot. Take a moment to savor a classic Italian coffee or pastry before heading to your next destination.

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Herculaneum

Step back in time at Herculaneum, an ancient Roman city remarkably preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Unlike its more famous neighbor, Pompeii, Herculaneum was buried by a pyroclastic surge, which carbonized organic materials and sealed the city, preserving wooden structures, furniture, and even food. Explore the remarkably intact streets, houses, and public buildings, gaining a unique glimpse into the daily life of a Roman town frozen in time. Let our expert guide lead you through this UNESCO World Heritage site, unveiling the stories behind the ruins and bringing the past to life.

4

House of Q. Granius Verus

Discover the House of Q. Granius Verus, a luxurious villa once owned by a freed slave with a stunning sea view terrace. Admire the exquisite garden adorned with sculptures, including the iconic statues of deer being attacked by dogs that give the house its name. This opulent residence offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Herculaneum's elite, showcasing the wealth and sophistication of the city before its tragic demise.

5

Mosaics of Neptune and Amphitrite

Be mesmerized by the enchanting mosaics of Neptune and Amphitrite, masterpieces of ancient Roman artistry. Crafted with vibrant glass paste, these mosaics depict floral and hunting scenes, culminating in the central panel featuring the marine deity Neptune and his wife Amphitrite. The intricate details and vivid colors, remarkably preserved for centuries, showcase the skill and artistry of Herculaneum's craftsmen, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural life of the city.

6

Skeleton House

Uncover the mysteries of the Skeleton House, a unique dwelling believed to be formed by the merging of three smaller buildings. Its name originates from the poignant discovery of human remains in a second-floor room in 1831, a chilling reminder of the eruption's devastating impact. Explore the multi-level structure and imagine the lives of those who once called this place home.

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Sacellum of the Augustales

Visit the Sacellum of the Augustales, a sacred building dedicated to Emperor Augustus during his reign. Admire the splendid frescoes depicting Hercules' ascension to Olympus, accompanied by Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, in a battle against Achelous. The discovery of a janitor's skeleton in his room adds a poignant human touch to this ancient religious site, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who served the emperor.

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House of the Hotel

Explore the House of the Hotel, the largest residence discovered in Herculaneum, spanning over two thousand square meters. This grand house, perched on the edge of the hill, boasts panoramic views and is unique for its own spa district. Originally thought to be a hotel due to its size and amenities, it now provides a fascinating insight into the luxurious lifestyle of Herculaneum's wealthiest citizens.

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House of the Black Salon

Step into the House of the Black Salon, named for its striking party hall adorned with geometric patterns painted entirely in black. Discover the waxed tablets of L. Venidius Ennychus, believed to be the owner of the house, which detail his eligibility for Augustale, the purchase of a slave, and the birth of his daughter. These tablets offer a rare glimpse into the personal and professional life of a prominent Herculaneum citizen.

10

Sorrentino Vini

Indulge your senses at Sorrentino Vini, a renowned vineyard nestled within the Vesuvius National Park. Founded in 1990, this family-owned winery is the largest on Vesuvius, boasting 35 hectares of vineyards. Discover the unique terroir of volcanic soil, which imparts distinct characteristics to their wines. Sample the famous Lacryma Christi, the only DOC wine produced on Vesuvius, and savor the flavors of the volcanic landscape while enjoying stunning views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.

Know Before You Go

Included in the tour are entrance tickets to Herculaneum, an authorized English-speaking guide, headphones, a light lunch with wine, and transportation on an A/C bus. Pick-up is at Bar Kontatto in Sorrento. Not included are personal expenses and anything not specifically listed as included.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Bringing water and sunscreen is also a great idea.

From €62 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.