When you arrive at the port of Naples, your driver will be waiting for you, holding a white sign with your name on it. You’ll be whisked away in a Mercedes vehicle for a private day tour to Herculaneum, Pompeii and Vesuvius. We guarantee you will be back at your dock well in advance of your cruise ship’s departure. The itinerary for the day trip can be adjusted to fit your preferences and desires. Explore these unique and unforgettable sites at your own pace!
You will first visit Herculaneum, which was founded, according to tradition, by Hercules. Like Pompeii, it was buried during the AD 79 eruption of Vesuvius. The mud solidified into tuff, causing the town to disappear over time. All timber structures were preserved by a hard shell of solidified mud. Highlights include the Hall of the Augustals with its marble floor and wall paintings, the elegantly decorated Thermal Baths and the Palestra, a monumental sports arena for competition and training.
Afterwards, you will stop to climb Vesuvius, the symbol of Naples, which closes the Gulf with its perfect shape. The view from the summit spans from the Sorrentine Peninsula to Capo Posillipo, creating unforgettable memories. The mountain was once taller, reaching around 3000m instead of today’s 1281m. Its violent eruption in AD 79 buried Pompeii in pumice, pushed the coastline back several kilometers, and destroyed much of the summit, forming a large caldera and two new peaks.
Your excursion will end at the “buried city”. The origins of Pompeii are uncertain but likely trace back to the 7th century BC when founded by the Campanian Oscans. Over seven centuries, it was controlled by the Greeks and Samnites before becoming a Roman colony in 80 BC. The site’s significance lies in it being buried under lapilli by Vesuvius in AD 79, rather than destroyed. This has preserved a remarkable snapshot of ancient life, allowing visitors to walk Roman streets and explore ancient homes and businesses, including a brothel.
Please note: Entrance fees, meals and drinks are not included. A certified English speaking guide is highly recommended at Pompeii for a better experience and because of your time frame; two hours is the minimum number of hours required for hiring a guide. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water (especially in the summer) for this tour.
