Pompeii is the bigger of the two sites, taking significantly more time to explore in full. Herculaneum is smaller, meaning that you can get around and discover its evocative remains in just a half-day if you're pushed for time.
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If you're in Naples or on the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii is a must-visit attraction that no one should miss. This massive archeological site is the best way to glimpse the daily life of ancient Romans. We highly recommend taking a Pompeii tour to fully appreciate the history here.
Though you could spend an entire day touring the site, the average time needed once inside is about two to three hours. Like most Roman-built cities, Pompeii is well organized with a clear street plan, but the modern-day signposts are often wrong.
We both strongly recommend doing Pompeii before Vesuvius for several reasons, but it is absolutely possible to do them the other way round; just follow these steps in reverse and keep a keen eye on timetables.
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance to speed up entry to the Archaeological Park. Those who buy in advance will receive their ticket in PDF format, that can be printed out or shown on their smart phone, and they can go directly to the turnstiles at the entrance to the Archaeological Park.
Herculaneum was buried under volcanic ash and pumice in the Eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Reference no. Like the nearby city of Pompeii, Herculaneum is famous as one of the few ancient cities to be preserved nearly intact, as the ash that blanketed the town protected it against looting and the elements.
You can visit Pompeii for free on the first Sunday of each month. It is best to secure your ticket online or you can get a from the ticket office in Pompeii. When visiting Pompeii on the first Sunday of any month, it can get very busy.
Could It Erupt Again? Yes! Mount Vesuvius is considered an active volcano that sits on top of an extremely deep layer of magma—154 miles into the earth. Geologists think the volcano is overdue for an eruption, so it is likely to happen and it won't be pretty.
Herculaneum History, traditions and daily lifeVisitors can book guided tours. Toilets are available. Entirely or partially accessible to people with disabilities and other challenged persons.
You can see all of Pompeii's main attractions in around two to three hours, taking in the preserved ruins that once made this town such a thriving place.