We will be visiting Pompeii will be arriving in around 2pm, I would prefer to do a self guided tour, because I don't know if we will be too tired from our travels on our first day to visit the ruins, so we might tour it the next morning. Has anyone done the self guided tour and a guided tour that might be able to let me know what is being missed by just doing a self guided tour? I really want to see Pompeii and my husband seems like he could care less, so we probably wont be there for more than 2-3 hours. Thanks
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23653 posts
This question is similar to the white tennis question - frequently asked but mostly personal opinion. We have done a number of self guided tours includes Steves guidebooks and they are OK. However much prefer a guided tours because you can ask questions of the guide and generally get more information because there is a limit to how much can be put on a printed page. There are lots of official guides at the front door of Pompeii who will give an hour overview, a two hour tour or whatever you want. Just talk to them when you get there. Some people want to save money by not using a live guide but IMO why get cheap at the last minute after spending thousands to get there. Go cheap on your next meal. Guides add an additional element that is not available from a guidebook. PS Not not used any of the ipod tours that Steves' sells. Might be a good compromise.
Posted by
Fontainebleau, France
893 posts
Having recently been to Pompeii, I can tell you that I was really surprised by how large it is. If you dont' want to spend that much time there, then a guide is a good idea, as he/she can get you through there in 2 hours.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15798 posts
I used Rick's FREE audio guide (are there others that he sells?) at Pompeii and thought it was very good. He manages to cover the highlights with interesting and informative commentary. The audio guide runs about 45 minutes, but of course it takes longer, since you have to get from place to place. At the entrance, before the ticket window, there are free maps and small pocket guides. Take both. The pocket guides give a brief description of all the bits covered by the audio guides for rent at the site, with photos so you know what to look for. One of the best places at Pompeii is the Villa dei Misteri. It's a bit of a walk from the other main sites, but well worth it. As for timing, take into account that there is very little shade. If you are going to be there in hot weather, morning would be better than afternoon.