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Playground of Emperors
Discover Roman Social and Cultural Life
Trips starting from
€
1,479
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Trip Details
"Naples is curiously chaotic and, if I may say so, comically serious" - E.M. Forster
4 days, 3 nights
Upgrade Your Worldview
On this journey, you will travel to Pompeii and Naples to delve into the unique social and cultural lives of the ancient Romans, while also navigating the chaos and contradictions of modern Naples. Pompeii stands as a frozen moment in time, preserved by the volcanic eruption in 79 AD. As you wander through its ancient storefronts, aristocratic villas, and even brothels, you'll gain deep insights into the daily lives of Roman citizens. This exploration offers a vivid look at the social structures of the past, challenging and expanding your perspective on life. In Naples, you'll experience a city whose character combines elements more reminiscent of North African or Middle Eastern cities than traditional Italian ones. You'll uncover Roman ruins beneath the city streets, savor celebrated Neapolitan street food, and engage with local insiders who will shed light on how ancient wealth and modern issues coexist. Throughout this trip, we aim to foster meaningful discussions that not only enhance your understanding of these historic places but also help you build relationships and broaden your worldview.
4 days, 3 nights
Upgrade Your Worldview
Exclusive Videos by Dr. Billows
Dr. Billows, one of the world's leading thinkers on the ancient world, has crafted a punchy primer for you to brush up your Roman history.
Explore Napoli & Pompei with Experts
On each day you’ll be accompanied by expert archaeologists and historians to experience Rome’s political and social legacy.
Connect with Local Insiders
Political journalists join us for a series of off-the-record chats over food & wine to discuss the state-of-affairs in modern Italy.
On this journey, you will travel to Pompeii and Naples to delve into the unique social and cultural lives of the ancient Romans, while also navigating the chaos and contradictions of modern Naples. Pompeii stands as a frozen moment in time, preserved by the volcanic eruption in 79 AD. As you wander through its ancient storefronts, aristocratic villas, and even brothels, you'll gain deep insights into the daily lives of Roman citizens. This exploration offers a vivid look at the social structures of the past, challenging and expanding your perspective on life. In Naples, you'll experience a city whose character combines elements more reminiscent of North African or Middle Eastern cities than traditional Italian ones. You'll uncover Roman ruins beneath the city streets, savor celebrated Neapolitan street food, and engage with local insiders who will shed light on how ancient wealth and modern issues coexist. Throughout this trip, we aim to foster meaningful discussions that not only enhance your understanding of these historic places but also help you build relationships and broaden your worldview.
Dr. Richard Billows
Historian
Columbia UniversityRichard A. Billows, a Professor at Columbia University, specializes in Ancient Greek and Roman History and has authored several books on topics ranging from Julius Caesar's role in the decline of the Roman republic to the development of classical Greek city-states.
Dr. Ben Kolbeck
Historian
Cambridge UniversityDr. Ben Kolbeck is a Roman historian and author specialised in Roman imperialism and early christianity. He's published widely on topics like ancient fire fighting, Roman imperialism and Pontes Pilates, the man who killed Jesus. He's earned history degrees from Durham and Oxford and a PhD from the Kings College London.
Dr. Paolo Gardelli
Archeologist
Ludwig-Maximilians University, MunichDr. Gardelli is a dedicated archaeologist and author based in Rome, known for his extensive research, fieldwork, and expertise in Roman history, art, and architecture, particularly focused on Rome and the Bay of Naples region.
Dr. Lorenzo Curatella
Medieval Archeologist
University of Rome, La SapienzaLorenzo Curatella specializes in religious and funerary culture in medieval Rome, with a strong background in archaeology and a range of excavation and research experience in Italy and Israel. He has a PhD from the University of Rome, La Sapienza.
Travel Itinerary
Each day we explore a different aspect of the Roman story.
1
Day 1 - Arrival in Naples
Welcome to Napoli!
Welcome to Naples! Upon your arrival, we’ll have a car waiting to take you to the hotel. Our hotels are always boutique and centrally located. You can expect to check in between 2 and 5 PM. Around 6 PM, we’ll welcome you in the bar with a welcome drink to meet your trip mates in person. Your trip leaders will deliver a short welcome presentation to get you inducted and ready for the journey before we all head to our rooms to rest up for the big week ahead!
2
Day 2 - Pompei
The Roman City State
Ob this day, you’ll journey to Pompeii, an ancient Roman town that was home to between 10,000 and 20,000 people over 2,000 years ago. Remarkably preserved by the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, Pompeii offers a vivid glimpse into Roman life at the time. As you explore ancient storefronts, markets, and even brothels, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of daily life in a Roman town. You’ll also visit beautifully tiled ancient bathing sites to appreciate the bathing culture of the empire, and explore aristocratic villas like the Casa dei Vetti, revealing insights into noble culture. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Naples, where the stunning sea views set the backdrop for an engaging evening. You’ll have the unique opportunity to discuss with a local Neapolitan crime expert. He’ll share his personal experiences of growing up in the city, explore the chaotic legacy left by the ancients, and demystify what the mafia really is.
3
Day 3 - Naples
A Story of Human Resilience
In Naples you’ll explore the city’s unique character, which at times resembles a city in North Africa or the Middle East more than one in Italy. You’ll come to understand why as you wander through Naples’ historic streets, immersing yourself in the vibrant lifestyle of the Neapolitans. Your first stop is the Church of San Lorenzo, where you’ll explore the underground Roman ruins beneath this renowned Renaissance church. As you indulge in celebrated Neapolitan street food and sample local culinary delights, you’ll continue to the Museo Lapis, discovering an ancient quarry that evolved into a Roman aqueduct and later a WWII bunker. In the afternoon, a stroll to the Archaeological Museum of Naples (MAAN) awaits, home to the world’s premier collection of Roman and Greek artifacts. Your day concludes with a quiet dinner, offering a moment to reflect on how Naples’ layered history influences its contemporary chaos and charm.
4
Day 4 - Departure from Napoli
Stàtte Buòno, Napulè!
Enjoy a leisurely morning with a late check-out arranged for your convenience. Savour your breakfast at the hotel, taking the time to reflect on the memories created during your stay. Please remember, you are free to use the facilities throughout the day.
What’s Included?
Online Course
Dr. Richard Billows
Course Creator & Lecturer
Dr. Billows has masterfully crafted a pre-trip lecture series including the following themes and videos:
Overview
- A timeline of Roman history from the foundation to Christianity
- What can we learn from Rome and its fall?
Roman Social and Cultural Life
- Roman bathing culture
- Life in a Roman town
- Disaster and relief efforts in the Roman Empire
Guided Tours
Our expert guides and host will guide you through all the experiences included in the itinerary:
- Archeological site tours
- Museum visits
- City walking tours
Accommodations
- 3 nights in a 4* hotel
- Shared double twin room
- Single occupancy available at an extra cost
Food Experiences
3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 happy hours, 1 dinner, inclusive of:
- Welcome drinks
- Every Breakfast
- Lunch at Local Trattoria
- Aperitivo
- Private Special Guest Dinner
Transport
- Car transfer from Airport to your hotel in Naples
- Private van transfers across Naples & Pompei
Special Guests
We will encounter local insiders to discuss the key topics presented in the itinerary, including:
- Colonization of southern Italy during unification
- Political Corruption
- Mafia
Online Course
Dr. Richard Billows
Course Creator & Lecturer
Dr. Billows has masterfully crafted a pre-trip lecture series including the following themes and videos:
Overview
- A timeline of Roman history from the foundation to Christianity
- What can we learn from Rome and its fall?
Roman Social and Cultural Life
- Roman bathing culture
- Life in a Roman town
- Disaster and relief efforts in the Roman Empire
Guided ToursOur expert guides and host will guide you through all the experiences included in the itinerary:
- Archeological site tours
- Museum visits
- City walking tours
Accommodations- 3 nights in a 4* hotel
- Shared double twin room
- Single occupancy available at an extra cost
Food Experiences3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 happy hours, 1 dinner, inclusive of:
- Welcome drinks
- Every Breakfast
- Lunch at Local Trattoria
- Aperitivo
- Private Special Guest Dinner
Transport- Car transfer from Airport to your hotel in Naples
- Private van transfers across Naples & Pompei
Special GuestsWe will encounter local insiders to discuss the key topics presented in the itinerary, including:
- Colonization of southern Italy during unification
- Political Corruption
- Mafia
Our Guides
Enjoy the good company of your expert local guides who will breath life into the Roman Empire's story!
Ivan Varriale, MSc
Archeologist & Expert Guide
Ivan Variale, a Naples native, holds degrees in Conservation of Cultural Heritage and in Classical Archaeology. Ivan is the co-editor of four books and author of 14+ academic papers on archeology and has actively contributed to excavations at sites like Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Naples. Currently, Ivan leads the Venus Pompeiana Project and is Vice-President of the International Research Institute for Archaeology and Ethnology (I.R.I.A.E.)
Dr. Paolo Gardelli
Archeologist & Expert Guide, Co-Creator of "Rise & Fall of Rome" Trip
Dr. Gardelli is an archaeologist with 20+ years' experience leading digs in Pompeii, Castellammare di Stabia, and Greece. His expertise includes building archaeology, wall paintings, mosaics, and Roman social history. Holding degrees in Cultural Heritage and Classical Archaeology, he earned his PhD at Ludwig Maximilians Universität in Munich, Germany.
Roberto Musio, Msc
Archeologist & Expert Guide
Roberto, is an archaeologist with a Bachelor's Degree in Cultural Heritage, a Master's Degree in Classical Archaeology, he has extensive experience working across the Mediterranean, including sites in Italy, France, and Greece and he's been a licensed guide for over 12 years. When not on digs or site visits, Roberto collaborates with Italy's Slow Food Association to promote Italian culinary traditions.
Book with confidence
Reserve with a 10% deposit
Reserve your place with just a fully refundable 10% deposit.
Full refund policy
Full refund for reservations canceled 60 days before the trip.
Financial failure protection
Your payments are insured by ABTOT in accordance with The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. See our Terms & Conditions for full details.
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Trip Departure Dates
Review the number of travelers, date and total price & deposit
Thursday, 12th September
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €160.88
Future payments: €1,447.88
Thursday, 26th September
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €162.51
Future payments: €1,462.62
Thursday, 10th October
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €171.87
Future payments: €1,546.86
Thursday, 24th October
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €163.80
Future payments: €1,474.20
Thursday, 7th November
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €152.69
Future payments: €1,374.17
Thursday, 21st November
BOOKINGS OPENDeposit amount: €147.89
Future payments: €1,330.99
Key Information
- Guests must provide proof of travel insurance for their adventure’s duration.
- Flights are not included in the price.
- Prices are based on twin room sharing. For a single room preference, please contact our team.
- Before booking, check the required documents, visas, and vaccinations for your destination and make sure you have enough time to take care of any potential requierments
For assistance of any kind, please contact us.
FAQ
You have questions? We've got answers!
Which airports should I use for booking flights?
Arrival: Naples International Airport (NAP)
Departure: Naples International Airport (NAP)
Departure: Naples International Airport (NAP)
What time should I arrive for the welcome meeting?
Aim to arrive before 12 pm on Day 1 to settle in before the evening dinner with the group.
When should I schedule my departure flight?
You're free to leave at any time on the last day, as there are no planned activities.
Are airport transfers provided?
Airport transfers on Day 1 are included if you arrive on the start date of the tour. For other situations or arrival by different modes of transport, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer. Arrival transfers are grouped by flight times, which may require a short wait.
Can the itinerary change?
The itinerary is subject to change only due to factors outside of our control like weather or availability. We strive to minimize any impact and will inform you of changes. Occasionally, we update itineraries to keep our tours exciting.
Do I need a visa?
Tourists from the EU, UK, USA, Australia, or Canada typically don't need a visa. Check with your local consulate/embassy or our website for specific requirements. From 2024, ETIAS travel authorization will be required for visa-exempt travelers to Europe. More Info: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-etias_en. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and you have a return ticket.