Ercolano, ancient Herculaneum, is a pearl nestled in the history and nature of the Campania region. Although its Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, represents the main attraction, a trip to this area cannot be considered complete without exploring the wonders that surround it.
Herculaneum’s strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the charm of the volcano that buried it, the cultural riches of Naples, and the sister ruins of Pompeii. Here is an itinerary of activities and must-see places nearby, to enrich your experience beyond the excavations.
Vesuvius: an unforgettable experience
The majestic Vesuvius dominates the landscape and is a must-do excursion for anyone visiting the Herculaneum area. The Vesuvius National Park offers several trails, but the most popular is the one leading to the crater, the so-called “Gran Cono” (Great Cone). The ascent to the crater allows you to admire the power of nature up close, with fumaroles that testify to the quiescent volcanic activity. From the summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking view that encompasses the entire Gulf of Naples, a panorama that rewards the effort of the climb. To reach the crater, you can use a shuttle service from Herculaneum up to an altitude of 1000 meters, and then continue on foot with a volcanological guide. It is an experience that combines trekking and geology, a close encounter with the imposing volcano that marked the history of Herculaneum and Pompeii.
Also worth mentioning in the vicinity of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park are the Vesuvian Villas of the Golden Mile (Miglio d’Oro), sumptuous 18th-century residences overlooking the Gulf, such as the famous Villa Campolieto, an architectural masterpiece that can be visited and often hosts cultural events. Another must-see site is the MAV – Virtual Archaeological Museum of Herculaneum, a multimedia and interactive experience that allows visitors to relive the ancient city before the eruption of 79 AD.
Naples: art, culture, and gastronomy
Just a few kilometers from Herculaneum, easily reachable via the Circumvesuviana railway, lies Naples, a vibrant and history-rich city that deserves at least a day of exploration. The capital of Campania is a concentration of art, culture, and unparalleled gastronomy. In the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can get lost in the alleys and decumani (ancient streets), visiting the Duomo di San Gennaro (Naples Cathedral), discovering the mysterious Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples), or admiring the works housed in the National Archaeological Museum (MANN), which contains many artifacts originating from Herculaneum and Pompeii themselves. For art and history lovers, the Maschio Angioino (Castel Nuovo), the Teatro San Carlo (San Carlo Theatre), and the monumental Piazza Plebiscito are unmissable. Don’t forget to taste the authentic Neapolitan pizza and the local street food. For a local alternative, the Pietrarsa National Railway Museum (also reachable by train from Herculaneum) offers a fascinating immersion into the history of Italian railways, with a collection of vintage locomotives and a unique view of the sea.
Pompeii: another unmissable archaeological site
If the Herculaneum excavations have fascinated you, you cannot miss a visit to Pompeii, the other great Roman city buried by the eruption of Vesuvius. Unlike Herculaneum, which was covered by solidified volcanic mud, Pompeii was submerged by ash and lapilli, which allowed for the preservation of different elements, such as the famous plaster casts of its inhabitants. The Pompeii excavations are much more extensive and offer a broader and more monumental view of Roman life, with temples, the Forum, the Amphitheatre, and countless frescoed domus (houses) like the House of the Vettii. Reaching Pompeii from Herculaneum is extremely easy thanks to the Circumvesuviana, making the combination of the two archaeological sites an excellent solution for a full immersion in ancient history. Visiting both sites allows you to grasp the differences in conservation and urban structure, offering a complete perspective on the impact of the 79 AD eruption.
In conclusion, the Herculaneum area is a crossroads of history, natural beauty, and culture, which, with its nearby attractions, will satisfy every type of traveler, making your visit to Campania an unforgettable experience.