Estimated to have a population of 20,000 at the time of its destruction, Pompeii was covered, probably over a period of hours, of up to 60 feet of ash and pumice. A fascinating eyewitness account of the eruption by Pliny the Younger, who was 18 years old at the time, can be read here .
Pompeii was a thriving holiday town, and much evidence of daily life there has been preserved. Unfortunately, due to conservation issues, only 30% of the buildings open to tourists in the past can be viewed currently. Nonetheless, a full day can be spent wandering the 100+ acres of archeological wonders. This website is quite useful in planning a day at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Do not miss Pompeii’s Villa of Mysteries, located at the western edge of the city. Read here and you’ll understand why.
Finally, a word to the wise: avoid staying in the modern town of Herculaneum. Several locals advised that the town is not considered safe.
Photos below are from when Jay and I went to Pompeii with Adagio Travel on the Amazing Almalfi trip!
Bottom Line- Consider checking out Herculaneum instead of or addition to Pomeii. It’s supposed to be better preserved! Make sure you go to the Naples Museum which houses the more beautiful mosaics found in Pomeii!