Why Herculaneum is Better to Visit Than Pompeii for families

When families plan a trip to Naples or the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii often tops the list. But here’s the secret—Herculaneum is the hidden gem you’ll be glad you discovered. Smaller, easier to explore, and far less crowded than Pompeii, it’s a brilliant day out with kids and offers a more relaxed way to step back into Roman history.

Cost-Friendly for Families

Let’s be honest, family tickets to attractions can add up quickly. The good news? Entry to Herculaneum is cheaper than Pompeii. Because the site is more compact, you won’t feel the need to splash out on extra tours or guides unless you want to. Everything is walkable and easy to navigate, which means less stress (and fewer tired little legs).

Less Crowds, More Space

Pompeii is incredible, but in peak season it’s also packed with tour groups and long queues. Herculaneum, on the other hand, has a much calmer vibe. You can take your time wandering the streets, peeking into homes, and pointing out amazing details to the kids without feeling like you’re being rushed along. It’s also easier to keep an eye on little explorers when there aren’t huge crowds around.

Unique Experiences You Won’t Find in Pompeii

What makes Herculaneum special is how well-preserved it is. Unlike Pompeii, which was buried in ash, Herculaneum was covered in volcanic mud. This meant that wooden furniture, roof beams, even food and papyrus scrolls have survived. It feels like walking through a Roman neighbourhood frozen in time. Kids will love spotting colourful mosaics, ancient shop fronts, and even the boathouses by the shore.

*caution*The Skeleton Cave – For Older Visitors Only

One of the most striking (and perhaps unsettling) parts of Herculaneum is hidden away at the very lowest level of the site. Through a tunnel you can reach the old boat houses where hundreds of skeletons were discovered, huddled together from the eruption. It’s a powerful reminder of the human story behind the ruins, but it can be quite confronting. I wouldn’t recommend this area for young children—maybe only suitable for older teens who can appreciate the history without being unsettled. Importantly, you won’t see these skeletons anywhere else on site—they’re only visible through this tunnel.

Easier for Families to Explore

One of the big challenges of Pompeii is its sheer size—it can take hours to see even part of it. Herculaneum is much smaller, which means you can cover the site in just a few hours, perfect for younger children who tire quickly. There are shaded spots, benches, and clear paths that make it far more family-friendly than Pompeii.

Views That Bring History to Life

Before you even step down into the ruins, you get an incredible view from above, looking down into the excavated town. It’s a brilliant way to explain the story to kids before they explore it for themselves.

Practical Tips for Visiting Herculaneum (with Kids)

Getting there from Naples
Take the local Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Garibaldi to Ercolano Scavi (about 10 minutes’ walk from the ruins). The seasonal Campania Express is another option, comfier but less frequent.

Opening times
• 16 Mar–14 Oct: 08:30–19:30 (last entry 18:00)
• 15 Oct–15 Mar: 08:30–17:00 (last entry 15:30)
Closed on 1 Jan and 25 Dec.

Tickets & money savers
• Adults €16
• Ages 18–25 €2
• Under 18s go free
• First Sunday of each month = free entry
Tip: If you’re visiting multiple sites, grab a Campania Artecard for savings.

Facilities & family-friendly notes
Toilets and vending machines are by the entrance, with benches overlooking the ruins. Bring your own water and snacks, as there’s nothing inside. Sometimes there’s a simple children’s treasure-trail map available at the ticket office.

Accessibility & prams
Herculaneum is much easier with pushchairs than Pompeii. There’s an official “Herculaneum for Everyone” route plus metal walkways that make exploring smoother. Accessible toilets are also on site.

Quick tips
• Visit early or late to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Wear sturdy shoes for uneven surfaces.
• On free Sundays, arrive early as you can’t pre-book and queues form quickly.

Why Choose Herculaneum Over Pompeii?

If you’ve got the time, both sites are worth a visit. But if you’re travelling with children and want something that’s budget-friendly, less crowded, and easier to manage, Herculaneum comes out on top. It’s an unforgettable family adventure that gives you all the magic of ancient Rome without the overwhelm.