Ancient Ruins & Volcanoes: Explore Italy’s Classic Route

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania is the newest itinerary from archaeological tour specialists Andante Travels. This eight-day journey highlights the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, guided by experienced archaeologists and lecturers who have worked directly at these extraordinary sites.

The itinerary offers an immersive exploration of ancient Roman life. Spend a full day in Pompeii, where you will walk through forums, theaters, baths and recently reopened villas, gaining insight into urban planning, daily routines and private domestic spaces. Visit the remarkable temples of Paestum, home to some of the best-preserved Greek Doric temples in southern Italy. In Naples, a guided tour of the National Archaeological Museum provides a concentrated collection of artifacts from Pompeii, Herculaneum and other sites across Campania.

The tour also includes access to the monumental Piscina Mirabilis at Misenum, a vast ancient cistern that supplied water to the Roman fleet; the exceptionally preserved remains at Herculaneum, where organic material and wooden structures survive in ways not found elsewhere; and the seaside villa complex of Oplontis, revealing luxurious Roman domestic architecture. Participants will ascend to the crater of Vesuvius for panoramic views and geological context, and visit the elegant seaside resorts of Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna at Stabiae, once exclusive retreats for wealthy Romans.

Departure dates are available in September, October and November. Pricing starts at $2,765 per person, based on double occupancy; international airfare is not included.

Included in the tour price are all meals with wine at dinner (note: lunch during the Pompeii day is excluded), hotel accommodations, expert guides, a dedicated tour manager, transportation by air-conditioned coach, entry fees and standard tips, as well as detailed field notes to support your experience and learning.

This itinerary is designed for travelers interested in archaeology, ancient history and cultural context, offering a balanced mix of guided interpretation, on-site exploration and time to absorb the landscapes and antiquities of Classical Campania.