May at the Herculaneum Archaeological Park: themed visits and openings

During May 2026 the Herculaneum Archaeological Park presents a series of events for different audiences: guided tours focused on Roman food culture, special holiday openings, free admission during #domenicalmuseo and interactive family routes inspired by the myth of Hercules. Practical information for visitors follows.

Main schedule

• 1 May 2026 – Themed visit “Places of food in Herculaneum”: a route highlighting thermopolia, domus, bakeries, the Ancient Beach and the Boat Pavilion, with recent anthropological research findings. Times: 10:00–11:00 (Italian) and 11:30–12:30 (English). Groups: max 25 people per session. Activity included with park admission; booking recommended: http://www.coopculture.it/it/prodotti/i-luoghi-del-cibo-a-ercolano/
• 1 May 2026 – Regular opening for Labour Day: visiting hours 8:30–19:30 (last entry at 18:00). Standard ticketed entry applies.
• 3 May 2026 – #domenicalmuseo: free admission: the Park and Villa Sora will be freely accessible all day. Hours: 8:30–19:30 (last entry at 18:00). For Villa Sora, the Gruppo Archeologico Vesuviano offers a free guided tour from 10:30 to 12:45. Reservations/contacts: 379 2196736 – [email protected]. Official info: ercolano.cultura.gov.it
• 8 and 15 May 2026 – “Hercules in the city” (family visit): a narrative and interactive route for children that introduces the myth of Hercules through frescoes and public spaces. Times: 10:00–11:00 (Italian) and 11:30–12:30 (English). Groups: max 25 people per session. Activity included with ticket; booking advised: http://www.coopculture.it/it/prodotti/ercole-in-citta/

Practical information

Tickets and bookings: book in advance for themed visits where possible, even if the activity is included in the standard admission. Consider the combined Park + exhibition ticket to see the exhibition “From egg to apples. The food civilization and the pleasures of the table in Herculaneum” at Villa Campolieto (Corso Resina 283).

General opening hours: on the indicated dates the Park opens at 8:30 and closes at 19:30, with last entry at 18:00. Always check official updates before visiting.

Location: Corso Resina, 187, 80056 Ercolano (NA), Italy. Coordinates: 40.8059253, 14.3473869.

The programme aims to enhance the archaeological heritage and make research results accessible to non-specialist audiences: ideal for visitors seeking an active cultural experience in the Vesuvius area.