Salerno to Paestum and Pompeii: Private day trip

Founded by the Greeks in 600 BC, the city was conquered by the Romans in 273 BC. However, the fall of the Empire, malaria outbreaks, and raids by the Saracens eventually forced the population to abandon the city. Today, the archaeological site is home to three of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples, most notably the large Temple of Hera, which was once thought to be dedicated to Neptune. The Temple of Ceres, which is actually dedicated to the Athena, was transformed into a Christian church in the middle ages, and still houses three tombs. The museum is filled with smaller and more delicate archaeological finds, including ceramics, daily paraphernalia, and even frescoes such as the iconic Tomb of the Diver funerary fresco.

In 79 AD, waves of volcanic runoff and ash buried Pompeii, one of Ancient Rome’s most active and splendid cities. The speed and magnitude of the event left the city frozen in time, preserved as it was. Excavations of the ancient metropolis have revealed some of the most significant insights into Roman art, customs, trades, and the brick-a-brack of everyday life. Walking the 2000-year-old streets reveals a wealth of architectural styles. Pompeii didn’t segregate its neighborhoods based on income, so you'll find affordable apartments are next to lavish villas. The city’s best-preserved home is the House of the Vetti, where you can admire richly frescoed entertainment rooms, and a central courtyard where a pool is surrounded by a formal garden. The city enjoyed an abundance of water, and used an aqueduct-fed reservoir to supply everything from public fountains to a street-cleaning system. Tickets are not included and often sell out, so we strongly recommend booking yours in advance at https://www.ticketone.it/en/artist/scavi-pompei/