Uncover the extraordinary stories of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and beyond on this expert-led tour. Staying at the four-star Hotel Forum, just metres from the archaeological site of Pompeii, you'll enjoy several guided visits.
Joining you throughout the tour will be historian Dr Jess Venner, who will offer expert insights and deliver an exclusive talk on her latest book The Lost Voices of Pompeii on your first evening. Each booking will also receive a copy of this book. During a guided walk around Naples, you'll visit many of the locations discussed.
Highlights include tours of Pompeii and the once opulent seaside town of Herculaneum, where entire streets, homes, and everyday objects remain preserved beneath volcanic ash. Visit the opulent Villa at Oplontis, believed to have belonged to Nero's wife, Poppaea, and admire its striking frescoes.
While in Naples, you'll also explore the world-class Archaeological Museum, home to mosaics, bronzes, and frescoes recovered from the Vesuvian cities, and descend into the ancient Roman markets beneath the city at San Lorenzo Maggiore.
Dr. Jess Venner is an Ancient Historian, author and presenter. She specialises in ancient Rome, particularly Pompeii and Herculaneum and her work bridges academic research and public storytelling. Jess' debut book The Lost Voices of Pompeii will be released in April 2026.
Fly from London Heathrow to Naples. Upon arrival, transfer to the four-star Hotel Forum Pompeii for your four-night stay. Meet your tour manager for a brief overview of your itinerary and hear from Dr Jess Venner, as she delivers a talk on her book, The Lost Voices of Pompeii. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.
After breakfast this morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage designated Archaeological Area of Herculaneum. The city was buried beneath 16 meters of ash and mud during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This layer of detritus preserved intact two-story domus homes with the internal architecture and décor, including features in wood and marble, decorations, jewellery, and even organic remains like food, providing a unique insight into the daily lives of the ancient population of Herculaneum.
After lunch at a local restaurant, finish the day with a visit to the opulent villa maritima at Oplontis, which might have belonged to the family of Poppaea, wife of Nero. Here, see stunningly preserved frescoes which were being refurbished at the time of the eruption, as well as remarkably well-preserved slave quarters which allow us a glimpse into a Roman household.
Return to the hotel for dinner this evening.
After breakfast this morning, visit the Naples Archaeological Museum, which houses the extraordinary finds from the excavations from the Vesuvian towns, as well as from other cities in the Bay of Naples. You'll see exquisite bronze statues, which would normally have been melted down and reused; marble statues which would have been broken up to make lime for fertiliser; beautiful wall paintings which would have decayed or plastered over - all would have been lost had Vesuvius not erupted and buried them all. Highlights include the stunning mosaics from the House of the Faun and the unique collection of frescoes, such as the so-called Sappho or the portrait of Terentius Neo and his wife.
After lunch at leisure, embark on a guided walking tour of the city centre and visit the deepest roots of the Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, built in the 6th century on the Via Augustale, where the general markets were located in Roman times. The Neapolis Sotterrata preserves the remains of the ancient Forum coinciding with the agora of the Greek city, 10 metres deep from the rumoured streets of the heart of ancient Naples, and represents the most relevant archaeological site in the city.
Return to the hotel for dinner this evening.
After breakfast this morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage designated Archaeological Area of Pompeii and meet your guide, Dr Jess Venner, an expert in Pompeian archaeology. This town was frozen in time preserving the area in a thick layer of ash, pumice, and lapilli. The terrible eruption of Vesuvius that buried Pompeii on 24th October 79 AD has left to posterity the opportunity to visit the town as it appeared to the ancient inhabitants just before the catastrophe. Enjoy your packed lunch and the afternoon at your leisure in Pompeii. Return to the hotel for dinner this evening.
After breakfast this morning, check-out of the hotel and transfer to Naples airport for your return flight to London Heathrow.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £379. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. **3 courses, ½ litre of water and 1 glass of wine per person. One book per booking. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd.