The Rise, Fall, and Rediscovery of Pompeii: A Self-Guided Tour

5.0
(1 reviews)
Pompeii, Italy

1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Please Note: This tour doesn't include entry into Pompeii. Tickets to access the site can be purchased on-site or online.

Once a thriving city, Pompeii was frozen in time when, in October 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted after centuries of rest, burying the city in layers of ash, pumice, and volcanic matter. On this walking tour with Context Travel expert Roberta Meomartini, you‘ll learn about the perfectly preserved city’s history and former inhabitants.

Decode phallic symbols, explore Basilica Pompeiana, Macellum market, and casts of citizens' final moments. This tour unveils Pompeii's rise, fall, and rediscovery, offering a vivid glimpse into its vibrant, ancient past.

Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it.

Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Tickets to access the site, which can be purchased online or on-site for € 19
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Marine Gate entrance to Pompeii Archaeological Park. You can take the Circumvesuviana train to the Pompei Scavi-Villa dei Minsteri station to reach the Marina Gate (Piazza Esedra) entrance to the park, or you can take the regional train with Trenitalia to the Pompeii station.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Pompeii Archaeological Park

    On this tour, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, starting at Porta Marina, one of the city‘s entrances. The Pompeii Archaeological Park is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM with the last entrance at 5:30 PM from April 1st to October 31st, and it is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM with the last entrance at 3:30 PM from November 1st to March 1st. You will need will need a ticket to access the site, which can be purchased on-site in-person or online for € 19.

    1 hour 15 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • (Pass by)

    Start your journey at Porta Marina, a city entrance that witnessed Pompeii's bustling life before the eruption. Though not a stop, its significance marks the beginning of your exploration.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Explore Santuario di Apollo, the oldest place of worship in Pompeii. Rebuilt and redecorated over the centuries, it showcases various architectural styles, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual practices.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass by Basilica Pompeiana, a structure adorned with remnants of red paint on its walls. While not a designated stop, its historical presence contributes to the visual narrative.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Arrive at Foro di Pompei, the former centre of everyday life. Marvel at the stepping stones that once kept Romans' feet above street-level elements. Absorb the tales of Pompeii's vibrant existence.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Glide by the Building of Eumachia, possibly a former wool market. Though not a stop, its historical significance adds depth to the narrative of Pompeii's economic and social structures.

    Admission ticket free
  • Macellum (Pass by)

    Visit Macellum, Pompeii's food market and social hub. Delve into the richly decorated homes, mosaic treasures, and the survival of carbonized loaves of bread, offering insights into daily life.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Step into the House of the Faun, once home to a wealthy resident. Explore the opulent surroundings and learn about the lifestyle of Pompeii's affluent inhabitants.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Visit the House of the Vettii, owned by freed slaves. Marvel at the preserved frescoes and unravel the stories of those who once called this dwelling home.

    Admission ticket free
  • Thermopolium Regio VI, Insula VIII, 8 (Pass by)

    Pause at Thermopolium, a fast-food restaurant offering insights into daily life. Gain an understanding of ancient Pompeii's culinary practices and social dynamics.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Pass by Terme Stabiane, one of the old public bathhouses. While not a stop, its presence adds to the mosaic of Pompeii's public infrastructure.

    Admission ticket free
  • Lupanar (Pass by)

    Step into Lupanare di Pompei, an ancient brothel adorned with intriguing frescoes. Decode the stories of Greek and Oriental prostitutes and absorb the unique social dynamics of the time.

    Admission ticket free
  • Teatro Grande (Pass by)

    Explore Teatro Grande, the large theater hosting gladiator spectacles. Delve into the Romans' love for culture, entertainment, and open-air theaters.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    See Teatro Piccolo, the small theatre where poetry readings and plays unfolded. Immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of ancient Pompeii.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    End your journey at Quadriporticus of the theatres, a monumental structure and gathering spot. Hear the riveting tale of Pompeii's rise, fall, and rediscovery.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by VoiceMap Audio Tours

Tags

Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Archaeology Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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