Meet up with your guide in front of your central hotel in Sorrento and hop in the air-conditioned vehicle for the trip to Herculaneum. During the journey, take in the scenic nature and terracotta-roofed villages while learning about the history of Herculaneum and the volcanic eruption that sealed its fate.
Once there, about an hour from Sorrento, marvel as you approach the statuesque archway that serves as the site's entrance.
It was once believed the denizens of Herculaneum had successfully fled the eruption, unlike those from Pompeii who were instantly covered in mud and lava, freezing them there for centuries. But, alas, Herculaneum suffered a similar fate, as 300 skeletons — likely locals running for their lives — were unearthed near the port, buried under layers of dirt.
Visit the ‘fast’ food restaurant where you’ll see clay jars that were used for storing food. See the gymnasium and the colorful mosaics in the public bathhouse.
After exploring the Herculaneum Archaeological Site, your tour concludes back at your Sorrento hotel in the afternoon.