Visiting both Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day is certainly doable, but it requires careful planning and a lot of walking. Both sites are incredibly rich in history and culture, and offer unique insights into ancient Roman life. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to arrive early and prioritize the must-see areas. Pompeii is much larger than Herculaneum, so it may be helpful to spend the morning at Herculaneum and then head to Pompeii in the afternoon. Here is how to plan A Day Trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples
Driving yourself vs taking a tour
Driving yourself to Pompeii and Herculaneum can offer several advantages over taking an organized tour. Firstly, it allows you to set your own schedule and explore the sites at your own pace, without being rushed or having to stick to a specific itinerary. Additionally, it provides more flexibility and freedom in terms of where you go and what you see, as you can make detours or stops along the way if something catches your eye. Driving yourself also allows you to avoid the crowds that are often associated with organized tours, particularly during peak season. Finally, it can be a more cost-effective option, as you only need to pay for gas and entrance fees, rather than a potentially expensive tour package. Overall, driving yourself to Pompeii and Herculaneum can be a great way to have a more personalized and enjoyable experience. We arrived to Naples early morning by train, took a taxi to car rental place(we rented car from Hetrz and cant be happier with their service), then drove to Herculaneum and from there to Pompeii.
Day Trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples.
A road trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples is a great way to explore these ancient Roman cities at your own pace. The drive from Naples to Herculaneum takes about 30 minutes, while the drive from Herculaneum to Pompeii takes another 30 minutes. Both sites are easily accessible by car and have ample parking. However, be aware that the roads can be busy and parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Herculaneum
Herculaneum, located just a short distance from Naples, is an ancient Roman town that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. To visit Herculaneum, you can purchase tickets on-site or online in advance. he site is open daily from 9am to 7:30pm, ticket price is 5.50 euro.
Once inside the site, you can explore the well-preserved ruins of ancient Herculaneum, including the ancient marketplace, public baths, and wealthy villas. Highlights include the House of the Neptune Mosaic, the House of the Deer, and the House of the Skeletons. The site is also much smaller than Pompeii, making it easier to explore in a shorter amount of time.
One of the biggest differences is the level of access visitors have to the buildings and rooms. At Herculaneum, you can walk around and explore many of the buildings and rooms, seeing the intricate details of the frescoes, mosaics, and architecture up close. In contrast, at Pompeii, the majority of the buildings are closed to visitors, with only a few select structures open for exploration.
Pompeii
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city that was destroyed and buried under layers of ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The city remained undiscovered and buried until its rediscovery in the 18th century. The site contains numerous well-preserved structures and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the daily life and culture of ancient Romans. You can explore the ruins of houses, villas, public buildings, and even a brothel. Some of the most famous sites within Pompeii include the Forum, the Amphitheater, the House of the Vettii, and the Lupanare.
Tickets for Pompeii can be purchased on-site at the ticket office, or online in advance through the official Pompeii Archaeological Site website. I recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines and ensure entry, especially during peak tourist season. The website offers several options for tickets, including single entry tickets, combined tickets for Pompeii and other archaeological sites in the area, and guided tours. It is important to note that some areas of the site, such as the Villa of the Mysteries, require a separate ticket for entry. Additionally, there are reduced admission fees available for EU citizens under the age of 25, and free admission for EU citizens under the age of 18.
Overall, a road trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples allows you to explore these ancient sites at your own pace and provides the flexibility to make stops along the way. It also offers the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius along the route.
