
MAV Virtual Archaeological Museum
Immerse yourself in ancient Herculaneum with virtual reality, 3D films, and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

MAV Virtual Archaeological Museum
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in ancient Herculaneum with virtual reality, 3D films, and interactive exhibits.
"A superb insight as to how life and the town was back in AD79 before Vesuvius erupted."

📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4 · 2,026 reviews
Type
Museum
Website
museomav.itHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

3D Eruption Film
Experience the Vesuvius eruption from the volcano's perspective in a captivating 3D film.

Then and Now Recreations
See Herculaneum brought to life with virtual reality and screen displays showing ancient life alongside modern views.

Interactive Roman Town
Explore a virtual drone sequence of the Roman town, controlled with a game controller for an engaging experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Virtual Journey
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.
Is Herculaneum worth it?
Hi everyone! My wife and i are visiting not only your beautiful country Italy, but also the magnificent cities of Naples and Pompeii! Yesterday we were taken in the ruins of Pompeii and found out there is also Herculaneum to see. Will that be a similar experience or is there…
☕ Cafe Break
The on-site cafe is great and very cheap, perfect for a rest.
🚶 Easy Walk from Station
MAV is conveniently located between the Ercolano train station and the archaeological site.
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Bring Your Smartphone
Essential for interactive exhibits! Download the MAV app and connect to their Wi-Fi for the full experience.
💡 Visit Before Herculaneum
Gain context for the ruins. MAV provides a superb insight into ancient life before you explore the site.
☕ Cafe Break
The on-site cafe is great and very cheap, perfect for a rest.
🚶 Easy Walk from Station
MAV is conveniently located between the Ercolano train station and the archaeological site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MAV offers an immersive, virtual experience of ancient Herculaneum, praised for its 3D eruption film and 'then and now' recreations that enhance understanding of the ruins. While some find the technology a bit dated, its convenience and educational value, especially as a prelude to visiting the archaeological site, are frequently highlighted. The cafe is also noted as a pleasant and affordable spot.
"This museum is based on videos on the walls and audios in italian or english that you can hear on your Phone. In our opinion it should be more interactive.
What we found interesting was to see recreations of Pompei and Herculaneum."
Catarina Gomes
"Interesting place and worked well to do before visiting Herculaneum. We got the train in and it was a straight walk down between the station and Herculaneum. The staff were friendly and helpful. The 3d film was good and a bit different, narrated from the perspective of Vesuvius. Some of the exhibits weren't working, but without a sign you had to guess by waving in front of them to see if anything happened! Well worth a visit."
sally peacock
"Having just visited both Pompeii and Herculaneum we found this museum a superb insight as to how life and the town was back in AD79 before Vesuvius erupted. The virtual reality videos (one is a 3D re-enaction) and screen displays combining both then and now really helped bring everything to life. Really enjoyed this museum and well worth visiting after visiting Herculaneum. Friendly and helpful staff. Definitely would recommend."
Tim Wells
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MAV is easily accessible. If you're arriving by train, it's a straightforward walk from the Ercolano station towards the Herculaneum archaeological site. Many visitors find it convenient to visit MAV first before heading to the ruins.
While specific parking details for MAV aren't widely publicized, there are typically parking options available in Ercolano, especially near the train station and the archaeological site. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
Yes, MAV is located conveniently between the Ercolano train station and the Herculaneum archaeological site, making it easy to walk to from either location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's generally recommended to check the official MAV website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchasing. While some visitors have mentioned buying tickets on arrival, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official MAV website for the most accurate and current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, there is an admission fee for the MAV. Some reviews suggest it's worth the cost for the insights it provides, while others feel it's a bit pricey for the experience.
Information on discounts, such as for students, seniors, or families, is usually available on the MAV's official website. It's worth checking there for any applicable offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
MAV offers an immersive experience with videos on walls, audio guides (in Italian and English), and interactive exhibits using your smartphone. Highlights include a 3D film about Vesuvius and virtual recreations of Herculaneum.
Yes, a smartphone is essential for the MAV experience. You'll need to download their app and connect to their Wi-Fi to interact with many of the exhibits.
The museum has a gift shop aimed at children with items like rubbers, pens, and imitation coins. The interactive nature of some exhibits might also appeal to younger visitors, though some content might be more suited for older children or adults.
Most visitors spend around 1-2 hours at MAV, depending on how much time they dedicate to each exhibit and the interactive elements. It's often recommended to allow ample time to fully appreciate the virtual experience.
Some visitors have reported that certain exhibits were not working during their visit. It's advisable to be patient and explore what is available, as some interactive elements might require a bit of trial and error.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, MAV has a cafe that is described as great and very cheap, offering a good spot for a break during your visit.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas. It's best to consume these in designated areas like the cafe or outside the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While some areas might allow personal photography without flash, it's always best to check for signage or ask staff for clarification to avoid any issues.
The 'Then and Now' recreations and the 3D film sequences offer visually striking moments. The interactive drone footage of the Roman town also provides unique perspectives for capturing images.





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