Pompeii: Archaeologist-Led Walking Tour & Small Group Entry

Summary

Walk Pompeii’s lost streets with an archaeologist by your side

You’ll walk Pompeii’s ancient streets with an archaeologist as your guide, hearing stories that bring ruined walls to life. From the main square to faded mosaics in private homes and even a stop at the infamous brothel, each moment feels personal and real. Small group size keeps things relaxed—and you might find yourself still thinking about those silent stones long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it really feels like to stand in the middle of a city that just… stopped? That’s how it hit me at Pompeii, right after we met our guide (Francesca — she waved a sign by the Porta Marina Superiore gate, easy to spot). The air was warm but not too heavy, and there was this faint smell of dust and old stone — not unpleasant, just ancient. Our small group shuffled past the main square, where Francesca pointed out grooves in the stones from Roman carts. I tried to imagine the noise back then. Now it’s mostly soft footsteps and a few birds.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a day trip to Pompeii from Naples. Francesca had all these details about daily life — she even joked about the graffiti in the brothel (Lupanar), which honestly made everyone snicker like school kids. The walls there felt cool and rough under my hand; you could almost picture someone leaning against them centuries ago. She showed us the Stabian Baths too, explaining how Romans basically invented spa culture. It’s wild how much is still visible — even faded mosaics and empty pools.

We wandered through narrow streets like Via dell’Abbondanza, pausing at places I’d only read about: House of Menander, House of Faun, those ancient granaries full of amphorae lined up like they’re waiting for something. Sometimes Francesca would stop mid-sentence because a dog trotted past (they’re allowed if they’re small enough — who knew?), or someone tried saying “thermopolium” and got tongue-tied. There was something comforting about how casual it all felt, even surrounded by so much history.

By the time we reached the theatre and stood in its shadowy coolness, I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once. Maybe it was just being there with someone who actually studies these ruins for a living — she answered every weird question without flinching. I still think about that moment standing in the quiet House of Vettii, sunlight slanting through a broken doorway. You don’t really leave Pompeii behind when you go; some part of it sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided walk through ancient Pompeii

• Meet guide at Porta Marina Superiore
• Visit the main square
• Explore the court house
• See the brothel
• Visit the ancient granaries
• Tour the House of Menander
• Tour the House of Faun
• Explore the ancient baths
• Walk along Via dell'Abbondanza
• See the Thermopolium
• Visit the theatre
• Tour the House of Vettii

Top questions

How do I meet my guide for this Pompeii tour?

You’ll meet your guide at Porta Marina Superiore entrance; look for a sign with “Askos Tours”.

Is admission to Pompeii included in this walking tour?

Yes, admission fees are included with your booking.

Who leads this day trip in Pompeii?

An expert archaeologist guides your group through the site.

Are headsets provided during the tour?

Headsets are provided for groups of 16 or more people.

How many people are in each group?

The maximum group size is 20 people per guide.

Can I bring my dog on this tour?

Dogs under 10 kg and 40 cm tall are allowed if leashed and carried inside buildings.

What are some highlights visited on this tour?

You’ll see sites like Stabian Baths, Lupanar (brothel), House of Menander, House of Faun, theatre, and more.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Pompeii’s entrance.

Do travelers under 18 need ID?

If under 18, bring passport or ID for free admission eligibility.

What’s included

Your day includes entry tickets to Pompeii itself (no extra fees), dedicated guidance from an expert archaeologist throughout all major sites listed on the route—like Stabian Baths and Lupanar—and headsets if your group has sixteen or more people so you won’t miss any stories along those echoing stone streets.