Welcome to the ancient Italian town of Ercolano! Nestled in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Ercolano is a charming destination packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. It is well known for its ancient ruins – the Herculaneum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. But there’s so much more to explore and discover in this vibrant town. From adrenaline-pumping activities to leisurely strolls through picturesque streets, Ercolano has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best attractions and things to do in Ercolano to help you plan an unforgettable trip. So, let’s dive in!

The 2 Best Family Things to Do in Ercolano

1. Herculaneum Guided Walking Tour
2. From Ercolano Herculaneum Guided Tour With Lunch

The 2 Best Family Things to Do in Ercolano

1. Herculaneum Guided Walking Tour

Discover the incredibly well-preserved ruins of Herculaneum on this 2-hour guided walking tour. Your certified guide will take you through the town, showing you landmarks such as the house with the mosaic atrium, the thermal spas of the forum, and the house with the mosaic of Neptune and Amphitrite. Gain insight into daily life of Roman citizens as you explore the ruins of the town, all while learning about how the archaeological site was first discovered in the 18th century. With priority access to buy your entry ticket included and transportation arranged, this is the perfect way to experience one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn more about how Herculaneum was destroyed and get a glimpse into daily Roman life.

2. From Ercolano Herculaneum Guided Tour With Lunch

Enjoy a guided tour of the ancient city of Herculaneum with skip-the-line tickets and transportation to and from the city. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and see preserved organic objects from before AD 79. Learn about the history of the city from your specialized guide and see the almost completely preserved wooden beds, doors, and houses. Discover how the city was uncovered in the 18th century and how it influenced the uncovering of Pompeii. The tour also includes a lunch break at a vineyard on the slopes of a volcano with breathtaking views of the Italian countryside. Don’t miss out on the chance to uncover pieces of history preserved in time with our guided tour of Herculaneum.

The Ultimate Tourist Guide to Ercolano: FAQs Answered

Are you planning a trip to Ercolano anytime soon but have some questions in mind that you just can’t find answers to? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city to help you plan your trip better.

1. What is Ercolano famous for?

Ercolano, located in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, is historically known for the UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient city of Herculaneum, which was buried by the same volcanic eruption that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was covered with volcanic mud and ash, preserving the city’s buildings and artifacts remarkably well.

2. How do I get to Ercolano?

Ercolano is easily accessible by train from Naples or Sorrento, with a station located right across the ancient city of Herculaneum. You can also take the Circumvesuviana train if you’re traveling from Naples or Sorrento. Buses are also available from Naples and other neighboring towns.

3. What is the best time to visit Ercolano?

The best time to visit Ercolano is in the spring (April – June) or the fall (September – November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, if you want to avoid the peak tourist season, which is during the summer (July – August), it’s best to plan your visit for the shoulder season (March or November).

4. How long does it take to visit the ancient city of Herculaneum?

The length of time it takes to visit the ancient city of Herculaneum depends on your level of interest in history and archaeology. However, most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the ruins, although some might stay longer. It’s best to plan your visit for at least half a day so that you can explore the city at your own pace.

5. Are guided tours available?

Yes, guided tours are available, and they are highly recommended as they offer a deeper understanding of the ancient site. Some tours also include access to restricted areas within the site. You can book a tour in advance online or purchase one on the spot.

6. What should I wear when visiting the ancient city of Herculaneum?

The ancient city of Herculaneum is an outdoor site, so dressing comfortably is essential. It’s best to wear lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes. A hat and sunscreen are also recommended during the summer months.

7. Are there any other attractions in Ercolano?

Yes, Ercolano has many other attractions to offer visitors. The MAV (Virtual Archaeological Museum) is an excellent place to visit if you want to learn more about the ancient city of Herculaneum in a creative way. The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is also just a short train ride away, featuring archaeological finds from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other ancient sites in the area.

8. Are there any local dishes that I should try in Ercolano?

Yes, Ercolano is known for its local cuisine, which includes dishes such as spaghetti with clams, fresh seafood, pizza, and sfogliatella, a traditional Neapolitan pastry. Head to a local restaurant, and don’t forget to try the local wine, Lacryma Christi, made from grapes grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ercolano

Ercolano is a beautiful town located in the Campania region of Southern Italy. It is best known for its extraordinary archaeological site, which was once a thriving Roman town. Aside from the ancient ruins, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Ercolano. In this guide, we’ll tell you how to make the most out of your trip to this remarkable destination.

1. Visit the Ancient Ruins

The ancient ruins of Ercolano are the town’s main attraction. The site was once a thriving Roman port town until it was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The ruins of the town were buried under a layer of ash, preserving them for over 2,000 years. Today, visitors can wander through the streets of the ancient town and explore the impressive archaeological finds.

How to get there:

The ancient ruins of Ercolano are located near the train station. Take the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale to the Ercolano Scavi stop.

Opening hours:

The site is open daily from 8:30am to 7:30pm. The last admission is at 6:00pm.

Ticket price:

A standard ticket costs €13, and it includes access to the ancient ruins.

2. Explore the Town Center

The town center of Ercolano is a charming place to explore. The streets are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and the atmosphere is lively and bustling. Take some time to stroll along the main street, Corso Resina, and soak up the local culture.

Best time to visit:

The town center is busier during the day, but it comes alive at night. Many restaurants and bars stay open late, so it’s an excellent place to spend an evening out.

3. Visit the Vesuvius National Park

The Vesuvius National Park is home to the famous Mount Vesuvius, the active volcano that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum. It’s an incredible natural attraction that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike up to the crater of the volcano and take in the stunning scenery.

How to get there:

The Vesuvius National Park is located about 12 kilometers from Ercolano. You can take the Circumvesuviana train from the Ercolano station to the Pompei stop, and from there, take a bus to the volcano.

Opening hours:

The Vesuvius National Park is open daily from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

Ticket price:

A ticket to the Vesuvius National Park costs €10.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

When in Ercolano, make sure to try the local cuisine. The town is famous for its traditional dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), pizza napoletana, and sfogliatelle (a sweet pastry).

Best restaurants:

There are many good restaurants in Ercolano. Some of the best include Osteria da Alberto, Pizzeria La Masardona, and Trattoria da Peppino.

5. Take a Day Trip to Naples

Naples is the capital city of the Campania region and is located just a short distance from Ercolano. It’s a vibrant city that’s full of history and culture. Take a day trip to Naples and explore the old town, visit the National Archaeological Museum, and sample the local cuisine.

How to get there:

Take the Circumvesuviana train from Ercolano to Naples. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

Opening hours:

The city center of Naples is open all day and all night.

Ticket price:

The cost of a return ticket from Ercolano to Naples is around €5.

Book Your Tour Now

Ercolano is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Visit the ancient ruins, explore the town center, sample the local cuisine, and take a day trip to Naples. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Ercolano is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.