Mount Vesuvius

Hike in Naples

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, one of only two active volcanoes on the European mainland, rises majestically to about 1,281 meters above the Bay of Naples. Its symmetrical cone and steep, wooded slopes dominate the landscape, forming the heart of Mount Vesuvius National Park — a fertile area dotted with small farms and vineyards cultivating ancient grape varieties that thrive in volcanic soil. A visit to the crater is a quintessential experience, drawing visitors from around the world who hike the winding path each year to peer into the volcano's vast mouth.

Since the 1600s, Vesuvius has fascinated travelers and scientists alike. During the Grand Tour era, it was considered an exotic marvel, especially for Northern Europeans who had never seen a volcano before. When the ruins of Pompeii were rediscovered in the 18th century, the twin attractions of the buried city and the mountain that destroyed it became irresistible. By the 1800s, ascending Vesuvius was one of the highlights of any visit to southern Italy.

The establishment of the Volcanological Observatory in 1841 — the world’s first — and the Mountain Guide Association in 1855 made visiting safer and more structured. Today, the most popular trail remains the path leading to the crater rim. This 4-kilometer round trip, with a 140-meter elevation gain and a moderate 14% incline, is accessible to most visitors and reaches about 1,170 meters above sea level.

Visiting Mount Vesuvius

Visiting Mount Vesuvius by car: If you're driving, take the A3 Napoli–Salerno highway and exit at Torre del Greco or Ercolano, then follow signs for Vesuvio. There's a designated car park, Parcheggio Vesuvio at 800 meters above sea level, which charges EUR 5 for the entire day. , located 800 meters above sea level that charges €5 per day. Note that you cannot pay for parking at the top, and there’s no internet connection on the mountain. You must book your parking space in advance through the official website — creating an account and entering your license plate number. You’ll receive a numbered parking place (though parking tends to be informal). From this lot, shuttles run to the ticket office about 2 km away, costing €2 for a round trip. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Visiting Mount Vesuvius by Bus from Ercolano: You can take a bus or shuttle from Circumvesuviana Pompei – Villa dei Misteri station or the Circumvesuviana Ercolano Scavi station (the archeological site of Herculaneum). Vesuvio Express offers From Ercolano: Vesuvio Park Entry Ticket and Roundtrip Bus, the cost is around €35.00 for a round trip, which includes park entrance fees. These are private companies not public transport. These services drop you off approximately 200 meters below the crater trailhead.

Visiting Mount Vesuvius by Bus from Pompeii: Additionally, Around Vesuvio buses operate between Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius approximately every 50 minutes, offering convenient access for visitors. This costs €39.00 takes about 3 hours and includes entry to Vesuvius.

Bus from Naples to Vesuvius: You can also travel to Mt Vesuvius from Naples by bus. Departures are from near Piazza Garibaldi and the central station in Naples, where tickets can be booked for €45.00. These buses typically allow for approximately one and a half hous of free time at the summit of the volcano.

Buying tickets to see Mount Vesuvius

Tickets for Mount Vesuvius must be purchased online in advance from the official website, as there is no ticket office at the summit. Because internet access on the mountain is unreliable, it’s essential to print or screenshot your tickets before traveling.

Tickets often sell out for morning time slots — when conditions are cooler and visibility is best — so book several days ahead. If your preferred time is unavailable, it’s worth checking with licensed tour companies, which often have reserved allocations.

When is Mt Vesuvius open?

January – February: 9 am – 3 pm.
March: 9 am – 4 pm.
April, May & June: 9 am – 5 pm.
July – August: 9 am – 6 pm.
September: 9 am – 5 pm.
October: 9 am – 4 pm.
November – December: 9 am – 3 pm.

Tips for visitng Mount Vesuvius

Visiting Mt. Vesuvius can be an exhilarating experience, offering breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into geological history. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

  1. Use bathroom before setting out: At the moment, there are no public bathrooms at the top.
  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain around Mt. Vesuvius is rugged and can be steep in places. Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for hiking.
  3. Check the Weather: The weather on the mountain can change quickly. Check the forecast and be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential rain, even if it’s sunny at lower elevations.
  4. Buy Tickets in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s a good idea to purchase your entrance tickets or tour packages in advance to avoid long lines and ensure your spot.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, especially since there are limited facilities once you start the hike up to the crater.
  6. Use Sun Protection: The sun can be quite strong, even on cooler days. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  7. Consider Transportation Options: If you're not driving, look into shuttle buses or organized tours from nearby cities like Naples, Pompeii, or Herculaneum. These often include round-trip transport and entrance fees.
  8. Respect the Environment: Stick to marked paths and respect all safety barriers and signs. Taking rocks or other natural souvenirs is prohibited.
  9. Plan Your Time: If you take a bus or shuttle, you’ll usually have about 2 hours at the site. Plan your hike to make sure you have enough time to enjoy the views without rushing.
  10. Educate Yourself Before Visiting: Knowing a bit about the history and geology of the volcano can enrich your experience. Consider reading up or hiring a guide who can provide insights during your visit.
  11. Pack Snacks: There are few services available at the top, so bring some snacks if you think you’ll get hungry during your excursion.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy a safe and memorable visit to Mt. Vesuvius.

Where to Stay close to Mount Vesuvius

For proximity and comfort, Il Vecchio Binario offers easy access to both Vesuvius and Pompeii. Hotel Villa Signorini provides elegant rooms within a restored 18th-century villa surrounded by gardens. For scenic views of the volcano and bay, Miglio D’Oro Park Hotel offers a luxurious stay near the archaeological sites.

Is Mount Vesuvius Worth Visiting?

Yes — Mount Vesuvius offers one of the most extraordinary experiences in southern Italy. Standing on the edge of its crater and looking across the Bay of Naples is both humbling and exhilarating. The mountain's dramatic history, geological power, and sweeping views make it one of the top sights in Campania. Whether combined with a visit to Pompeii or explored as a stand-alone adventure, Vesuvius is a place that brings history and nature vividly to life.

FAQs for Visiting

Is Mount Vesuvius still active?
Yes, it is considered active but currently dormant, with no eruptions since 1944.

How long is the hike to the crater?
Around 30 minutes each way, depending on pace.

Can you visit Vesuvius year-round?
Yes, but access may close in winter or during poor weather.

Is the hike suitable for children?
Yes, older children with moderate fitness can manage it, though the path is steep.

Can you see Pompeii from the summit?
Yes, on clear days you can spot the archaeological site far below.

Nearby Attractions to Mount Vesuvius

  • Pompeii – The world-famous Roman city frozen in time by the 79 CE eruption.
  • Herculaneum – Smaller and better preserved than Pompeii, with remarkable mosaics.
  • Naples – A vibrant city known for its art, architecture, and world-class pizza.
  • Sorrento – A picturesque coastal town with sweeping views of the bay and Capri.
  • Villa Oplontis – A lavish Roman villa near Torre Annunziata, also buried by Vesuvius.

The Mount Vesuvius appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Naples!

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Visiting Mount Vesuvius

Hours:

January – February: 9 am – 3 pm.

March: 9 am – 4 pm.

April, May & June: 9 am – 5 pm.

July – August: 9 am – 6 pm.

September: 9 am – 5 pm.

October: 9 am – 4 pm.

November – December: 9 am – 3 pm.

Address: Mount Vesuvius, Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
Pompeii: 9 km
Naples: 14 km
Sorrento: 22 km
Amalfi Coast: 26 km

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