Pompeii, Herculaneum & The Treasures of Campania

Step into the heart of the ancient world on an unforgettable journey through Campania, Italy. Over eight immersive days, you’ll explore some of the most iconic archaeological treasures ever unearthed—Greek temples at Paestum, the streets of Pompeii frozen in time, and the private homes of Herculaneum preserved by volcanic ash. Guided by our knowledgeable tour lecturers, this tour blends expert insight with hands-on discovery, bringing to life the art, architecture, and daily rhythms of civilizations that shaped history. From world-famous UNESCO World Heritage sites to hidden gems like Stabiae’s opulent villas and the rural estates of Boscoreale, every visit reveals a new chapter of the ancient story. With breath-taking views from Mount Vesuvius and engaging expert commentary, this tour is a deep dive into the classical world.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Naples
Depart London for Naples then transfer by coach to our hotel for a seven-night stay. Evening welcome drink, dinner with wine and talk from your tour lecturer.

Day 2: Paestum
Step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park of Paestum, where three remarkably preserved Greek temples from the 6th and 5th centuries BCE stand as a testament to Magna Graecia. Continue to the Paestum Museum, which houses painted tomb slabs, pottery, and everyday objects from the ancient city. While here we take a guided tour of the Store Rooms to explore a wide range of objects discovered during excavations. The visit concludes with the Tomb of the Diver, a unique 5th-century BCE burial featuring rare frescoes that provide insight into early Greek art and symbolism.

Day 3: Pompeii
We spend the full day exploring Pompeii, the Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. Walk through its streets and visit key sites such as the amphitheatre, theatre, and forum, which reveal the civic and cultural life of the city. See the bathhouses and thermopolia (bars), offering a glimpse into daily routines and social customs. Newly reopened areas from ongoing excavations provide fresh perspectives on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your tour lecturer will be on hand with his expert commentary, giving insight and depth to the visit.

Day 4: Naples and Pozzuoli
This morning we travel to Pozzuoli to visit its impressive Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Italy. Later we take a special visit through the ancient tunnels at the Cave of Sejanus to the Villa of Pausilypon overlooking the Bay of Naples. In the afternoon visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, one of the world’s finest collections of Greco-Roman art and artifacts, and renowned for its collection of mosaics, frescoes, and artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. 

Day 5: Stabiae and Castellammare di Stabia
In the morning, tour the Villas of Stabiae, including Villa Arianna and Villa San Marco, which were once luxurious residences adorned with vibrant frescoes and commanding views of the Gulf of Naples. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum of Castellammare di Stabia (Libero D’Orsi), where over 500 artifacts from these villas illustrate the wealth and lifestyle of the Roman elite. 

Day 6: Herculaneum and Boscoreale
Start the day at Herculaneum, a smaller yet remarkably preserved site that offers intimate glimpses into Roman homes and streets. Its wooden structures, upper floors, and household items survived the eruption, offering unique insights into Roman domestic life. The Antiquarium provides additional context through its collection of finds. In the afternoon, journey to Boscoreale to see the charming Villa Regina and its Antiquarium, showcasing rural life and agricultural practices in the Vesuvian countryside.

Day 7: Vesuvius and Villa Oplontis
Our final day of touring starts with a morning visit to Mount Vesuvius, where you can view the crater and take in sweeping panoramas of the Bay of Naples. In the afternoon, visit Villa Oplontis, a grand seaside residence attributed to the family of Emperor Nero. Its elaborate frescoes and architectural design reflect the opulence of imperial leisure during the first century AD.

Day 8: Departure
Free time today before our transfer to Naples airport for the return flight to the UK.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 23 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as demanding due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. Most sites will be very uneven underfoot, with no handrails, and limited places to sit. Any paths may be cobbled, grassed, or gravel. Please note that this is a busy itinerary with long days touring sites which will be physically demanding. On Day 7, the walk to Mount Vesuvius is very demanding, on a steep ascent with limited mountainside barriers. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Naples
• Seven nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the four-star Hotel Scapolatiello, Cava de’ Tirreni, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink and dinner with wine
• 6 further dinners at the hotel
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Accompanied by an expert tour lecturer throughout
• UK tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement from £280
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Hotel Scapolatiello

Tucked away in the charming medieval hamlet of Cava de’ Tirreni, Hotel Scapolatiello offers a peaceful retreat after days exploring ancient wonders. Surrounded by woodland and panoramic mountain views, this historic property combines traditional Italian elegance with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in the wellness centre, take a swim in the panoramic pool, and enjoy authentic regional cuisine at the hotel’s renowned restaurant. Its tranquil setting and warm hospitality make it the perfect base for an archaeological journey through Campania—close enough to Naples and the key sites, yet worlds away from the bustle of city life.

Hotel Website