Private Pompeii & Herculaneum

Departing from the cruise ship terminal in Naples, this 9-hour Pompeii tour starts at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, in the ruins of the ancient city. Archaeological and cultural treasures abound here, where the ghosts and echoes of history can still be seen and heard amidst the ruins. You can wander two 2000-year-old roads and glimpse into the temples and villas of the ancient city. You will see everything from colorful, lively frescoes and mosaics to the ghostly, white stone people of the city, frozen in time forever.

Pompeii is one of the most significant proofs of Roman civilization and, like an open book, provides outstanding information on the art, customs, trades and everyday life of the past. You’ll have three hours to explore the history and culture of Italy in Pompeii before breaking for lunch.

History buffs and anyone with archaeological and anthropological interests take note, your next stop will be at the historical site of Herculaneum. Herculaneum’s fate runs parallel to that of Pompeii. Destroyed by an earthquake in AD 62, the AD 79 eruption of Mt. Vesuvius saw it submerged in a thick sea of mud that essentially fossilized the city. The ruins of Herculaneum, like Pompeii, are very well preserved and harbor a wealth of archaeological finds, from ancient advertisements and stylish mosaics to carbonized furniture and terror-struck skeletons. Indeed, this superbly conserved Roman fishing town of 4000 inhabitants is easier to navigate than Pompeii.

Lightweight summer clothing and light layers are recommended, with sweaters and jackets advised for evenings and cooler months. Some terrain in Italy is uneven and archaeological sites can be challenging for those who are not surefooted, so keep that in mind when booking your Naples port tour. This particular tour involves a hike. Vehicles are accessible for a folding wheelchair or walker.

Bookings for this tour are available from March – November, with each tour lasting roughly nine hours. Private tours for small and large groups are both available, using luxurious eight-seat Mercedes vans. Whether it’s a family vacation or a large group, party, or wedding excursion, you can count on expert, local drivers to privately chauffeur you through Italy.

Please Note: This tour includes an English-speaking driver, fuel, highway toll fees, and parking fees, but does not include entrance fees or tickets to local attractions, or private guides. Though your English-speaking driver can provide commentary while driving you around, they cannot act as a guide outside of the car. Food and beverages are not included in this tour, though there are times set aside for snack breaks and meals included in the day’s schedule. The driver will be happy to make suggestions about the best places to eat throughout the day. At the end of this history-steeped tour, your driver will return you to the Amalfi Ferry Pier.