Starting Friday, July 3, 2026, it will once again be possible to visit the Herculaneum ruins at night.
A unique and evocative experience featuring lights, colors, music, and theatrical performances, which can be enjoyed every Friday from July 3 through August 7.
It’s a different way, in a magical atmosphere, to discover and admire the history of the ancient city destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
This won’t be just a simple nighttime stroll, but a true sensory journey in which history will interact directly with contemporary art.
During the evening openings, visitors will be able to freely explore the archaeological site, illuminated at night by a sophisticated play of lights, as they stroll through the streets, shops, and sumptuous domus of ancient Herculaneum. At the same time, they can admire various dance, theater, and musical performances along an artistic itinerary dedicated to the universal themes of love and war.
An evocative stroll enveloped in the silence of the night, interrupted only by the beauty of the illuminated ruins and the artists’ performances.
Information for Visiting the Herculaneum Ruins at Night
The Herculaneum ruins can be visited at night every Friday from July 3 through August 7.
There will be two tour sessions:
- One event starting at 8:00 p.m. and ending at 9:30 p.m., with the requirement to leave the park by 10:00 p.m.
- The second session runs from 10:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., with guests leaving the park at midnight.
The tour will last 1 hour and 30 minutes. To participate in the event, you must arrive at the site at least 20 minutes before your tour time.
Sessions can be booked online at the ercolano coopculture website or by calling the call center at +39 081 0106490 (also available for information, Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
Reservations are required for all visitors, including those eligible for free admission.
Ticket prices are as follows:
- €10 (full price)
- € 5 (reduced rate) for those aged 18–25 (not yet 25), including EU citizens.
- Free for children under 18, people with disabilities and their companions, and holders of an archaeological park pass.
For a safe visit, it is essential to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes to avoid falls on the uneven paving, and to use insect repellent.
In addition, visitors with disabilities can book their visit at least 3 days in advance by sending an email to pa-erco@cultura.gov.it, specifying the date and time.
In the event of adverse weather conditions, the event may be canceled; in this case, you may request a refund for tickets purchased. Furthermore, if weather conditions change during any event, the events will be held indoors in the boat and antiquarium pavilion.
Parking
To visit the Herculaneum ruins at night, you can park for free at the Rodinò School (Via IV Novembre), the Iovino Scotellaro School (Traversa Via IV Novembre), or the Villa Favorita parking lot (Corso Resina), subject to availability.
Alternatively, you can pay to park at the “Herculaneum Parking” municipal parking lot on Via dei Papiri Ercolanesi.
