May at the Herculaneum Archaeological Park: thematic tours, holiday

May at the Herculaneum Archaeological Park

Throughout May the Herculaneum Archaeological Park hosts a range of activities for diverse audiences: thematic tours on ancient food culture, special openings on public holidays and family-oriented routes focused on the myth of Hercules. Below are the main details to plan your visit.

Highlighted events

• 1 May 2026 – Thematic tour “Places of food in Herculaneum”

  The closing session of the season explores eating habits and culinary practices in ancient Herculaneum: from the thermopolium to private homes, the bakery, the Ancient Beach and the Boat Pavilion, including findings from recent anthropological studies on the site.

  Times: 10:00–11:00 (Italian tour), 11:30–12:30 (English tour). Groups: max 25 people per session. Cost: activity free with standard park admission. Bookings: www.coopculture.it/it/prodotti/i-luoghi-del-cibo-a-ercolano/

• 1 May 2026 – Labour Day: regular opening

  The Park will observe standard opening hours for the public holiday.

  Hours: 8:30 – 19:30 (last entry 18:00). Admission: paid according to regular rates (reductions and free entry as per regulations).

• 3 May 2026 – #domenicalmuseo: free entry

  As part of the national initiative, the Park and Villa Sora will be open free of charge for the entire day.

  Hours: 8:30 – 19:30 (last entry 18:00). Info: ercolano.cultura.gov.it

  At Villa Sora, the Gruppo Archeologico Vesuviano will offer a free guided visit from 10:30 to 12:45. Reservations: 379 2196736 – [email protected]

• 8 and 15 May 2026 – “Hercules in town” (family tour)

  A route designed for children and families that tells the story of Hercules through frescoes and public buildings, using a narrative and engaging approach to make archaeology accessible to young visitors.

  Times: 10:00–11:00 (Italian tour), 11:30–12:30 (English tour). Groups: max 25 people per session. Cost: activity free with park admission. Bookings: http://www.coopculture.it/it/prodotti/ercole-in-citta/

Practical information and tips

Tickets and access: reservations are recommended for thematic tours even when the activity is included in the standard admission. Consider purchasing the combined Park + exhibition ticket to visit the exhibition "From egg to apple. Food culture and dining pleasures in Herculaneum" at Villa Campolieto (Corso Resina 283), located close to the Park.

General hours: for the listed events the Park opens at 8:30 and closes at 19:30, with last entry at 18:00. Always check official updates before your visit.

The programme aims to enhance the archaeological heritage and present research in an accessible format, ideal for visitors seeking an active cultural experience in the Vesuvian area.