My family and extended family will be stopping in Naples for 1 day while on a cruise. Visiting Pompei has always been a dream of mine, but I'm curious - would you recommend visiting Herculaneum instead? Unfortunately we can only choose one because of our limited time.
Thank you!
Posted by
Australia
1072 posts
My extended family - two generations who have been to both - would say Herculaneum.
Why? It's a smaller site and so easier to see in a limited time, it got less ash than Pompeii so houses are in better condition than Pompeii meaning that mosaics etc are in better condition, it is often less crowded than Pompeii, it's closer to Naples so you will spend less time getting there and back compared with Pompeii.
Why not? Fewer guided tours so you need to be prepared to find your own way around.
It will really depend on whether you want a guided tour experience or whether you want to be able to wander around on your own more.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7958 posts
Posted by
NorthCarolina
1086 posts
We've been to both and I'd say Herculaneum - it is smaller, less crowded, more manageable, yet still has the amazing history, frescos, and dwellings - get the RS Italy book and he does a great job narrating you thru it - even how to take the train there - he has a great map and discusses each area and the important facts and history. Don't miss the very end - down some steps where all the skeletons are as they tried to escape - we saw MANY people not see the steps and missed that area - so def follow the RS book, map, narrative and directions.
Posted by
3471 posts
We went to both Pompeii and Herculaneum in April 2022. If you can't see both, I would go with Pompeii - if for no other reason, to see the Amphitheater and the Villa of the Mysteries. They are on opposite ends of Pompeii, so allow plenty of time if you want to see both.
If you decide to visit Herculaneum, try to arrange for a guide who will you take you to Oplontis and Stabiae as well.
Posted by
500 posts
We also have done both….and love them both! They are different as noted by other replies. I do think going to Pompeii is the option to visit first. It’s been a dream to see, as you say.
We too are cruising this July as extended family….grandkids grade school aged. We talked about both options…the pros and cons. They chose Pompeii. Cruise tour. Yes it’s bigger,..more spread out…further from Naples, will be crowded and they will be very hot. Spoke of this. But we will be flexible, find ways to to cool off….I have “ways”. They want to see Pompeii and are excited.
Posted by
SF Bay Area
917 posts
Herculaneum takes less time to see and will make for a more relaxing day and possibly allow you to see a bit of Naples. But Pompeii was more impressive to me, and if you have always wanted to see it you might want to go for it. Both are wonderful.
Posted by
3471 posts
I'm chiming in again to say that a private guide for either Pompeii or Ercolano would be a great value for money - especially with your limited time. They can navigate you through the crowds, and frequently the "bus tour" guides will let you go ahead with your guide at the entrance to a house or business. At least that happened to us several times at both sites.
Posted by
693 posts
Just a reminder that recently in Pompeii, archaeologists uncovered another eatery or snack bar. It has colorful paintings that once advertised specific food offerings as would a menu. Am assuming that visitors may now check that place out, in addition to all Pompeii's previous offerings.
I am done. the vesuvio