GemmaHerculaneum is one of Italy’s most fascinating ancient towns, a place where history seems frozen in time under layers of volcanic ash. If you’ve ever thought Pompeii is the only star of ancient Roman ruins, Herculaneum is here to show you there’s more to explore—and it’s smaller, cozier, and often much easier to enjoy with your family. From my own personal experience, wandering through these ancient streets feels like stepping into a time machine. Every corner tells a story, every mosaic whispers secrets, and every roofless house invites curiosity.
Whether you’re traveling with kids who need a little adventure mixed with education or older family members who appreciate history with a relaxed pace, Herculaneum has a lot to offer. Let me guide you through the 10 things to do in Herculaneum that will make your family trip memorable, enjoyable, and full of discoveries you’ll truly love.
1. Walk Through the Ancient Streets
One of the most immersive ways to experience Herculaneum is simply by walking through its preserved streets. Unlike Pompeii, which can feel overwhelming with crowds and vast ruins, Herculaneum offers a more intimate setting. You and your family can wander along the cobblestone roads and imagine life almost 2,000 years ago.
Kids often enjoy spotting ancient graffiti or imagining what it was like to shop at Roman bakeries. Meanwhile, adults might marvel at how sophisticated Roman engineering was, from the layout of the streets to the intricate water systems. Walking here is not just sightseeing—it’s like a living history lesson without the dusty textbooks.
2. Explore the Well-Preserved Houses
Herculaneum is famous for its incredibly well-preserved houses, many of which still contain colorful frescoes and detailed mosaics. Visiting homes like the House of the Deer or the House of the Mosaic Atrium is a must.
You’ll see rooms arranged with clear purpose, kitchens, bedrooms, even private baths. It’s remarkable how much personality shines through in these spaces. Kids might enjoy pretending to live like ancient Romans, and adults can appreciate the artistry and functionality that went into building these homes. Based on my overall experience, spending an hour or two inside these houses can be mesmerizing.
3. Visit the Thermal Baths
No trip to Herculaneum is complete without exploring the ancient thermal baths. The baths were more than just a place to get clean—they were social hubs where Romans would relax, exercise, and catch up on local gossip.
Families will find the baths fascinating because they show a glimpse of daily life from nearly two millennia ago. Kids often enjoy seeing how the heated floors worked, while adults can imagine the conversations that once echoed in these halls. The sense of scale and detail in the ruins is breathtaking, making it an educational and fun stop for everyone.
4. Marvel at the Frescoes and Mosaics
Herculaneum is a treasure trove of Roman art. Many houses and public buildings feature colorful frescoes depicting mythological scenes, landscapes, and daily life. The mosaics, often laid out in intricate geometric patterns, are equally impressive.
As you walk through these spaces, encourage your family to imagine the stories behind the artwork. What myths were important to the Romans? How did these designs reflect their values? Art here isn’t just decoration; it’s a window into the hearts and minds of people who lived centuries ago.
5. Discover the Ancient Harbor
Herculaneum was a thriving port town, and its harbor remains a fascinating place to explore. Walking along the ancient waterfront gives you a sense of the town’s connection to trade and travel.
Kids often enjoy imagining ships loaded with goods arriving from across the Roman Empire. Adults can reflect on the logistics of ancient trade and how crucial the harbor was to the town’s economy. Visiting the harbor area is a unique way to combine history with scenic views—a perfect spot for family photos.
6. Check Out the Archaeological Museum
For a deeper dive into the artifacts unearthed in Herculaneum, stop by the Archaeological Museum. Here, you can see everything from pottery and jewelry to tools and preserved food items.
The museum helps bring the ruins to life by providing context for what you see while walking the streets. Children often enjoy the interactive exhibits, while adults will appreciate the stories behind each object. It’s a perfect stop for families who want to connect the dots between ancient artifacts and daily life.
7. Climb Up to the Viewpoints
Herculaneum isn’t just about what’s on the ground. Some areas offer elevated viewpoints where you can see the town layout, the coastline, and even Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
These spots are fantastic for family snapshots, but they’re also a moment to pause and reflect on history. Standing here, you can imagine the eruption in AD 79 and the lives that were changed in an instant. From my own personal experience, these viewpoints are often the moments that stick with you long after the trip.
8. Enjoy a Guided Tour
A guided tour can make your visit much richer. Knowledgeable guides bring the ruins to life with stories that aren’t always obvious from the structures alone.
Families benefit from tours because they answer questions kids and adults might have, keeping everyone engaged. Some guides even include fun activities for children, like spotting certain artifacts or imagining scenarios from ancient Roman life. It’s not just educational—it’s entertaining too.
9. Visit the Forum and Public Buildings
The Forum was the heart of Herculaneum, where politics, commerce, and social life came together. Exploring this area gives you a sense of the town’s organization and importance.
You’ll find temples, administrative buildings, and open spaces where Romans gathered for festivals or discussions. Kids may enjoy pretending they’re ancient senators or merchants, while adults can appreciate the architectural planning that made public life possible in Roman times.
10. Take a Relaxing Stroll Along the Beach
While Herculaneum is primarily famous for its ruins, the town’s coastal location offers a chance for a relaxing end to your day. After exploring, a stroll along the nearby beach is perfect for letting kids run around and for adults to soak in the Mediterranean views.
The combination of history and nature makes Herculaneum unique. You can discuss what you’ve seen during the day, share favorite discoveries, and enjoy a peaceful moment by the water before heading back to your accommodations.
Herculaneum is a gem for families. It combines fascinating history, well-preserved ruins, engaging educational opportunities, and scenic beauty. From wandering ancient streets and exploring houses to visiting the harbor and climbing viewpoints, there’s something for everyone.
Based on my overall experience, a trip here is more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to spark curiosity, create lasting memories, and connect with history in a personal way. Whether you’re traveling with young kids, teens, or grandparents, Herculaneum offers a perfect balance of fun, education, and adventure that will leave your family talking about it long after you leave.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.