Explore Herculaneum with an Archaeologist

Herculaneum | Vesuvius’ well-preserved victim

Buried alongside Pompeii in the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, lies Herculaneum, a smaller yet more opulent Roman city. Unlike Pompeii, which was smothered by ash, Herculaneum was struck by a superheated pyroclastic surge, a scorching cloud acting as an insulator, essentially flash-baking the city and preserving a remarkable amount of organic material.

Even today, the remains of wooden furniture, doors, roofs, mosaics and frescoes, and even food have been remarkably preserved, offering a unique window into the daily lives of its wealthy residents. Visit Herculaneum in the Campania region of Italy and discover its amazing history.

Things to know before booking Herculaneum tickets

Booking combo tours to both Herculaneum and Pompeii to understand the full aftermath of Vesuvius’ wrath makes sense. But don’t feel pressured to visit both sites on the same day. These tickets allow you to book entry to them on different dates.

Besides Herculaneum and Pompeii, opt for the Artecard Campania to enter 5 top sites and grab discounts on several more! The Artecard Campania is valid for 7 days from the time of purchase.

Purchasing skip-the-line tickets helps you save anywhere between 20 minutes to an hour’s worth of time, otherwise spent in long ticketing lines.

Take a guided tour with a knowledgeable archeologist who can explain in detail the ins and outs of Herculaneum history, secrets, myths, and more.

Short on time but don’t want to miss out? Ride the superfast Campania Express between Naples and Herculaneum in just 18 minutes! Note that this is a one-way ticket either from the Herculaneum Ercolano Scavi Train station to Naples Porta Nolana station or vice versa. Additionally, it doesn’t guarantee entry to Herculaneum; those tickets need to be purchased separately.

Opt for the Artecard Campania to enter 5 sites, besides Pompeii and Herculaneum, like the Royal Palace of Caserta, the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, and Paestum for free, and grab discounts on several more! The Artecard Campania is valid for 7 days from the time of purchase.

Those with mobility constraints/wheelchair users can avail of a specially designed route by informing the help desk at the beginning of the site.

Herculaneum is the ultimate day trip destination, and you can book day trips with convenient transfers from Naples and Pompeii. In half a day, travel from Naples or Pompeii in an AC coach and visit both, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius.

To learn more about the main reason behind Herculaneum — Mount Vesuvius itself, visit the volcano, hike up to its summit, peer into its craters, and know what makes it as famous as it is fearsome!

Did you know that many of Herculaneum’s treasures are no longer housed in Herculaneum? Head to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples to see artifacts and items rescued from Herculaneum.

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House of Neptune

Located a little further from the House of the Charred Furniture, the House of Neptune was created as a tribute to the gods Neptune and Amphitrite. The primary attraction at the House of Neptune is a stunning glass mosaic wall featuring Neptune and his wife Amphitrite, with marble masks over it.

Frequently asked questions about Herculaneum tickets

How much time can I save with skip-the-line tickets to Herculaneum?

You can expect to save 20 minutes to an hour of waiting time by booking priority access tickets. With these tickets, all you need to do is show your ticket at the entrance and begin your tour immediately.

How would a guided tour enhance my visit?

Since Herculaneum is buried in historical wealth, walking the ruins with a tour guide or archeologist can help you understand the meaning and purpose of various houses, frescoes and mosaics and other remnants. So, paying the extra few bucks for a guided experience is absolutely worth it.

What are my options if I don't want to avail a guided tour of Herculaneum?

Although nothing quite tops a guided tour, you can still learn about the history and significance of the Herculaneum with audio guided tours like Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide. If you want to go the traditional route and explore on your own, make sure you do plenty of research before visiting so you can fully appreciate what you’re looking at.

In what languages are audio guides available?

Avail Herculaneum audio guide tours in Italian, English, French, Spanish and German.

Who can avail discounted tickets to Herculaneum?

Typically, those under 18 enter for free, as do members of the ICOM, people with disabilities and one companion, students and teachers enrolled in courses related to archeology, culture, history, conservation, etc. Groups, Ministry bodies, etc. are liable to receive concessions.

What is the cancelation policy for Herculaneum tickets?

It depends on the ticket you choose to book. While some tickets offer a full refund on canceling tickets up to 48-72 hours in advance, for others there may be no refund available on cancelation. Please check before you make your reservation.

Is entry free for people with disabilities?

Yes, entry is free for people with disabilities and one companion, provided they offer proof of availing social support.

Can I access all the excavated portions of the Herculaneum with my tickets?

Yes, tourists can generally access all sites open to visitors, unless any specific monument or building is cordoned off for repair, like the Villa of the Papyri, for instance.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots inside the Herculaneum that visitors should check out?

While not exactly hidden, definitely check out the Palestra that sprawls two terraces (here, ancient Romans engaged in physical sport and ball games). Also visit the House of the Wooden Partition which has sliding doors that still work on their hinges. Though not much to look at, you can also stop by the House of the Skeleton, known for the fact that a skeleton was discovered here in the 19th century. It now has faded mosaics.

Are there day trips to Herculaneum that I can book?

Yes, Herculaneum is a popular day trip destination owing to its proximity to Naples. From Naples or Pompeii, book transfers to Herculaneum. To tour Herculaneum from Naples, you need just 3 hours, including travel time. Additionally, along with Herculaneum, you can even visit Mount Vesuvius if your ticket permits.