Mt. Vesuvius (Monte Vesuvio)

The basics

Visitors can easily see Mt. Vesuvius from below. But a trip to the volcano itself provides the best understanding of the area and its impact on the region’s history. A hike up the mountain begins in Mount Vesuvius National Park, which has nine nature trails and allows for summit access.

The crater’s lunar landscape is otherworldly, and the views are tough to beat. Many Mt. Vesuvius (Monte Vesuvio) tours combine a visit to the area with a stop in Pompeii, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast.

Things to know before you go

• Mt. Vesuvius is ideal for both outdoor lovers and history buffs.

• Hiking is best suited for clear days when you can enjoy the views.

• If you plan to hike, wear comfortable walking shoes. The paths are often dusty and rocky, so closed-toe shoes are best.

• You can walk to the edge of the crater only with a certified guide on a Mount Vesuvius tour.

How to get there

Mount Vesuvius National Park is easily accessible from Naples via the Circumvesuviana train. The nearest stop is Herculaneum (Ercolano)—from there, the Busvia del Vesuvio takes you up the mountain. Alternatively, you can book private or guided tours from Naples. These tours provide transportation, crater access, and insight into the history and details of ancient life in the area.

When to get there

Though Mt. Vesuvius is open year-round, the best time to go is in the off-season from October to April. Crowds and temperatures rise during summer, which can get hectic in southern Italy. Spring and early fall provide the best times to avoid the area’s potential fog.

The volcanic eruption of AD 79

It’s impossible to understand the impact that Mt. Vesuvius had on Italy without a visit to the nearby archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Though many people tragically died in the volcanic eruption, their villas, roads, public buildings, artworks, and ways of life remain largely intact in two of the world’s best-preserved ancient sites.

Ways to explore

Mt. Vesuvius is set inside a national park, which you can enter by paying an entrance fee. While you can hike up to its summit alone, many hike Trail 5 (il Gran Cono) to the rim of the crater with a volcanologist guide to get the lowdown on the volcano’s geology and history as they go.

Most hikes spend around three or four hours on the volcano, meaning that tour companies can fit it into a neat half-day trip. Mt. Vesuvius trips from Naples are popular, along with longer full-day Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius tours.

Accessibility

The trails up Mt. Vesuvius are not wheelchair accessible. However, there are specialist tour operators that may be able to offer accessible tours by Jeep.

Age limits

None, although families with young kids should note that the trails are steep, with little shade

What to pack

Cash, sunscreen, water

What to wear

Light jacket to put on at the top, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun hat

Not allowed

Walking on the wrong side of the trail (stay to the right)

Amenities

Hiking paths, small shop, ticket office

Address

Mt. Vesuvius National Park is easily reachable by both car and public transportation from Naples.

Driving

From Naples or Salerno, take the A3 highway to the Torre Greco exit, and follow the signs for Vesuvio. After the Contrada Osservatorio, follow the SP144 road to the main parcheggio (car park). From here, you can pay around €1 for the shuttle bus or walk for around 30 minutes to reach the trailhead of Trail 5.

Public transportation

Take a Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station in the direction of Sorrento or Poggiomarino via Pompeii. Disembark at Pompeii-Villa dei Misteri station, and board one of the local EAV buses for Vesuvius.

Best times to visit

The ticket office opens in the mid-morning, and it’s best to arrive as early as possible to beat the tour buses and hike the trails when it’s cooler.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are quieter than weekends at Mt. Vesuvius.

Best months to visit

Avoid the summer and winter extremes if you can, and hike up Mt. Vesuvius during the milder spring and fall.

Special events

Watch out for the Vesuvius Under the Stars events (Vesuvio Sotto le Stelle) in the summer, which are a series of nighttime hikes with wine tastings.