• Travel Guide
• Hotel deals
• Cheap flights
• Tours and activities
• Audio guide Mp3

Rome > Nearby sights > Herculaneum

Located in the region of Campania, the town of Herculaneum succumbed to the terrible explosion of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Similar to what happened in Pompeii, the citizens did not have time to flee and everything was frozen into place, buried under the ashes to be preserved over the passage of time.

What to see in Herculaneum

Located close to Mount Vesuvius, the ashes hit Herculaneum with greater force. It was completely buried and even better preserved than Pompeii. Houses, baths and taverns are impeccably preserved.

In most of the buildings, both floors are kept intact, and in the interior of some of the buildings one can see the beautiful frescoes and mosaics that are a testament to the city’s luxury before the great catastrophe.

On the far side of the city are the most luxurious villas overlooking the sea, notably the Villa dei Papiri, which was the luxurious retreat of Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

In Herculaneum, preserved early Roman skeletons dating to the first century were found. Prior to this period the Romans practiced cremation. The skeletons can be seen in one of the houses in the city.

A trip to the past

Herculaneum is preserved almost as if the clocks had stopped centuries ago and someone had lovingly cared for the city so it would remain intact.

Although not as well known as Pompeii, Herculaneum has nothing to be ashamed of. Although it is significantly smaller, is better preserved.

The new city, known as Ercolano, was built practically on top of ancient Herculaneum, so the houses of the ancient inhabitants are virtually next to the new houses, which makes for an interesting contrast.

How to get to Herculaneum

The two most common ways to get from Rome to Herculaneum are:

• By train: To take the train to Herculaneum, you will have to take a train from Termini to Naples. Once in Naples, take the Circumvesuviana line to the Ercolano Scavi station. The total journey time varies from 2 to 3 hours. Like the duration, prices range from €30 to €100 roundtrip, depending upon the train.
• Rent a car: Although this is the cheapest option for families or groups, you must take into consideration the price of gasoline, tolls or time lost arranging the rental. We would recommend this option if you’re thinking of renting a car for additional days and visiting other sites nearby. You can rent a car by clicking here.