This is a Naples shore trip for those who wish to visit the lesser known archaeological site of Herculaneum, part of the same UNESCO World Heritage designation as Pompeii. You start your day visiting the town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples. Then in the afternoon you explore Herculaneum.
After meeting your driver guide you depart for the seaside town of Sorrento. You have time to explore the tiny pedestrian lanes lined with cafes and shops. The warm Italian sun makes the area perfect for growing lemons which are used to make the local liqueur limoncello. Make sure you sample the many lemon flavored ice creams, candies or liqueurs while you are here. Sorrento sits on the Gulf of Naples and is not technically a part of the Amalfi Coast, but for most visitors, it is the jumping off point to that famous area.
You have time to have lunch (meal not included) while you are in Sorrento.
This afternoon you leave the coast and drive to Herculaneum where you have time to explore the site by audio guide (entrance fee not included). Herculaneum, like its more famous neighbor Pompeii, was buried when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. After ash covered the city it was then inundated by fast moving pyroclastic flows of mud and debris. When the ancient city was rediscovered in 1709 it was nearly 65 feet below the surface.
Today only a small portion of the city has been excavated but it is still very impressive. While Pompeii was a typical working town, Herculaneum was a posh sea side resort for wealthy Romans. You'll be amazed by the condition of the buildings, villas and carvings that have survived nearly two thousand years.
Herculaneum is as impressive as Pompeii but not as crowded with tourists. If you have been to Pompeii in the past, this is a natural for your next visit to the region.