The ruins of the historic towns of Herculaneum and Pompeii are located near the city of Naples in the Italian region of Campania. Visiting the two is essential for anyone wanting to explore the region and soak in the ancient civilization that existed here. Many visitors often opt for a day trip to both sites in combination, but with some planning it is easy to make it a comfortable journey. These instructions will guide you on how to get from Pompeii to Herculaneum.
Often the best way to get from Pompeii to Herculaneum is by car or hired transportation. The journey is approximately 16 kilometers and it can take between 40 minutes and an hour to travel. Although most tour operators offer transfers between the two sites, parking at each site can be limited. There are also taxi and minibus services available, but these can be expensive when running on a hourly basis. There are a number of buses that run from Pompeii to Herculaneum regularly, but these can take longer and have fewer stops than a car or hired vehicle.
For those wishing to explore both sites independently there are a number of ways to get from Pompeii to Herculaneum. From Pompeii you can take the Circumvesuviana railway line, although you will need to transfer at the port of Ercolano to get to the Herculaneum stop. Journey times will vary depending on the type of train service you use, but the line runs regularly throughout the day. It is also possible to travel from Pompeii to Herculaneum on foot, which will take between two and three hours along the Via Papp Elicio road. However, it is not recommended as the path can be difficult and the temperature can reach uncomfortable levels during mid-day. Although a much cheaper option, a combination of buses and local trains can take up to two hours and involve multiple transfers.
Once in Herculaneum the best way to explore the site is on foot. There is a limited number of tour buses that run around the site, but these are typically reserved for large tour groups. Walking will provide a more intimate experience and allow you to take in the vast expanse at your own pace. There are two main entrances to the site with a public toilet and ticket office situated at the main entrance.
Exploring Herculaneum
Herculaneum is a lesser-known archaeological site than its more famous counterpart, Pompeii. Never-the-less its ruins are just as spectacular and well worth the visit. As the site is mostly unexcavated and built on a smaller scale, excavations at the site have revealed a wealth of artifacts and volcanic remains. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman villas and houses, as well as the remains of the famed bell-shaped structures called the boat sheds.
Aside from the fascinating ruins, the site offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the ancient history of the region. At the site visitors will encounter fascinating artifacts from the roman era, such as statues and frescos. There is also an abundance of fascinating sites that are not often visited, such as the thermal baths and the Roman Forum.
One of the best ways to explore the area is to take a guided tour of the site. Professional guides can expertly walk visitors through the archaeological site, revealing the secrets of Herculaneum and taking in the most stunning areas of the site.
Outside of the ruins themselves, visitors to the area can enjoy the nearby ruins of Stabiae which is located just to the west of Herculaneum. This is another well preserved Roman site, which offers visitors the opportunity to explore more of the city.
Local Accommodations
If you are looking to stay in the Herculaneum area overnight, there are a variety of options available. There are a number of hotels situated nearby, as well as a selection of Bed and Breakfasts. If you’d prefer something more rustic, there are also an abundance of campsites and caravan parks located nearby.
The area is also full of attractions, from beaches and historical monuments to natural reserves. The town of Ercolano is located nearby and boasts an interesting selection of restaurants and interesting sites. There are also a number of wineries that are open to the public offering sample wines, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The area is also a great base for exploring other parts of the region such as Naples, the Amalfi Coast, the Island of Capri, and the wonderful Sorrento.
Conclusion
Getting from Pompeii to Herculaneum is easy when you know the best routes, and it can be done in as short as 40 minutes. Exploring Herculaneum is an exciting journey into the past and the ruins offer an abundance of interesting objects and sites to explore. For those wishing to stay in the area there is an abundance of accommodation to choose from, and plenty of nearby attractions.
