On August 24 in the year 79 AD, nearly 2,000 years ago, the volcano Mt. Vesuvius began erupting. It blanketed the nearby town of Pompeii, freezing the 20,000 denizens with its ash and molten lava, thus perfectly preserving this ancient Roman city. On this half-day guided walking tour, you can see the best that the archeological site has to offer.
After your driver picks you up from your hotel in Naples, the railway station in Naples, or the Naples cruise terminal, enjoy the ride to Pompeii, roughly 30 miles (48 kilometers) away.
Meet your guide at the entrance and prepare to be dazzled by this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the city walls and the Porta Marina gate that was once the entryway to the harbor of Pompeii. Explore the ancient theater where performances were regularly given. Gawk at what once was a Roman version of a ‘fast food’ restaurant, where vast vases still stand that were used for storing food. Stop at the Forum and learn about the political system in Pompeii and what the Forum was used for. Walk down the basalt-laden streets and squares of the city.
See the blocks that provided stepping-stones across the often-flooded and sewage-filled streets; and view must-sees such as the Temple of Apollo, the Macellum market, and the public weighing scales.
And, intriguingly, see the casts of victims who were immediately frozen by the volcanic eruption. Stop by the thermal baths, a popular pastime in ancient Roman times. And even visit an old brothel, also a much-enjoyed proclivity among Roman men.
Transport-Only Option: If you prefer to explore the Pompeii ruins independently, the transport-only option offers private round-trip transportation from Naples and lets you spend time in Pompeii on your own. Your driver will wait for you while you wander around Pompeii for a couple of hours and then take you back to Naples. There is also an audio guide available (additional cost).
