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Visiting the Crater on Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is one of only two active volcanos in Continental Europe and stands about 1281 meters tall, with a symmetrical central cone and steep wooden slopes. The whole of the Mount Vesuvius National Park is both beautiful and productive, dotted with small farms and wineries planted with heirloom varietals boasting a unique terroir. Visiting the crater is a must, and tourists from across the globe climb the path each year to peer into its depths.
The curious have been climbing the slopes of Mount Vesuvius since the 1600s, as the crater was considered one of the more "exotic" stops on the Grand Tour, attracting tourists from northern Europe who had never seen a volcano.
Between the 18th and 19th centuries, the ruins of Pompeii stop along the 'were discovered by chance, and a trip to Pompeii-Vesuvius became a cultural attraction, as well. Many travellers who were drawn to the unearthed city also wanted to see the volcano that had destroyed it, and excursions up the mountainside were a huge draw'.
From the 18th century to today, hiking up Mount Vesuvius is one of the most popular activities in the area; the Volcanological Observatory, founded in 1841, and the official Mountain Guide Association, founded in 1855, have expert guides able to accompany tourists up the final stretch of the mountain trail.
Still today, the most popular route among visitors is the trail up the highest reaches of the cone to the rim of the crater, a stretch that is not particularly difficult, can be undertaken by anyone, and does not require hiking experience.
The trail is about 4 km up and back, with a change in altitude of about 140 meters and an average slope of 14%; the trail reaches 1,170 meters above sea level.
There are buses and shuttles that climb the lower slope of Mount Vesuvius, stopping at the ticket office at 1,050 meters above sea level. The trail begins here, offering views of the Vesuvius park overlooking the Tirone Reserve, the Bay of Naples, and the Campanian Plain. About halfway up the trail you can begin to see Punta Nasone and, on the opposite side, Cognoli di Ottaviano towering over the Valle dell’Inferno. Continue along the broom-lined route to the short climb under maritime pines and birch trees to the Forest Service Post. Pass this to the crater rim with its breathtaking view over the entire Bay of Naples, Pompeii ruins, and Apennine mountains of Molise and Abruzzo.
Visit to Mount Vesuvius: opening hours and tickets
Crater trail opening hours
January, February, November, December: 9:00 – 15:00
March and October: 9:00 – 16:00
April, May, June, September: 9:00 – 17:00
July and August: 9:00 – 18:00
Tickets can only be purchased online through the official Park website or authorized platforms. Opening times may vary depending on weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Always check updated information before your visit.
Unless weather alerts or safety issues occur, the trail leading to the crater is open every day of the year — including Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Vesuvius visit – Ticket prices
€10: full-price ticket
€8: students of schools and universities of any level
Free admission: children under 120 cm in height, and visitors with 100% disability plus one accompanying person
Access by car
If you arrive by car, parking is available at 800 m (online reservation required through the municipality/parking provider). From there, you continue by shuttle or on foot to 1000 m, where the trail entrance begins.
Access to the crater is limited and allowed only with a pre-booked ticket.
In case of bad weather, strong winds or weather alerts, access may be suspended.
Review Summary: pros and cons
Most visitors find Vesuvius impressive: the views over the Bay of Naples, the dramatic volcanic landscape, and the walk up to the crater are the highlights everyone mentions. Many describe it as a memorable experience — challenging in parts but manageable for anyone with moderate fitness. The guides at the crater are often praised for their enthusiasm and clear explanations.
On the downside, organization is a recurring complaint. People often report confusion around tickets (which must be booked online and tend to sell out), unclear shuttle and parking logistics, and overall costs that feel high compared to the services offered. Heat, wind, and dust add an extra layer of difficulty, especially in summer.
Practical tips
Buy your ticket online in advance: arriving without one often means being turned away.
Go early in the day: cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Be prepared for extreme heat: in July and August temperatures can easily exceed 40°C on the trail.
Wear closed, sturdy shoes: the terrain is dusty and slippery.
Bring plenty of water and a snack: services are limited.
Expect some disorganization: shuttles, parking, and queues can be confusing.
Wind can be very strong at the top: even in summer it can feel chilly at the crater.
Avoid midday in high season: the heat makes the climb much tougher.
Getting to Mount Vesuvius
Getting to Mount Vesuvius
You can reach the Mount Vesuvius National Park by car or with one of the bus services from Pompeii or Herculaneum.
If you are arriving by car, take the A3 Napoli-Salerno highway to the Torre del Greco or Herculaneum exit, and follow the signs for Vesuvio. At 800 meters above sea level, there is an unstaffed parking area that costs EUR 5 for all day. Shuttles to the ticket office depart from here, and cost EUR 2 round trip (free for children). We suggest taking the shuttle as it is a tough climb from the parking area to the ticket office, and it's best to save your energy for the trail!
By public transport, you can take the bus or shuttle from the Circumvesuviana Pompei - Villa dei Misteri stop or the Circumvesuviana Ercolano Scavi stop; buses and shuttles cost about EUR 22 round trip (entrance to the park included) and take you directly to the ticket office that is about 200 meters below the trail head for the crater. There are also EAV bus routes between the Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius every 50 minutes.
Visit to the Crater – How it Works
Visit to the Crater – How it Works
The visit to the crater begins at an altitude of 800 meters, where the official parking area is located. From the parking lot, you continue up to 1000 meters by foot or with a shuttle service — a private minibus that takes about ten minutes and brings you directly to the controlled entrance of the Vesuvius National Park.
At 1000 meters, tickets are checked: you show the QR code purchased online and, after passing the gate, you join Trail No. 5 – Gran Cono, the only path that leads to the crater rim. The trail is wide and well maintained, with volcanic gravel underfoot and a moderate incline. The first stretch is the steepest and can feel demanding, especially on hot days.
As you climb, the vegetation gradually disappears and the landscape becomes increasingly barren and volcanic, while the view opens over the Bay of Naples and the coastline. After about an hour, you reach the crater rim, where Park guides provide insights into the volcano’s history and the fumaroles still visible along the inner walls. From here, you can walk along a safe section that follows the edge of the caldera, enjoying spectacular views of the sea and the towns below.
The entire visit, including the ascent and descent, takes an average of 2–3 hours. It’s a striking and relatively accessible experience, as long as you’re prepared for an uphill walk and for the elements — with summer temperatures that can easily exceed 40°C.
The Vesuvius history
The Vesuvius history
The story of Mt. Vesuvius is deeply intertwined with the geological evolution of southern Italy and, in particular, with the region of Campania, one of the most densely populated areas of Italy. Part of the broader Somma-Vesuvius system, the volcano rises within the ancient caldera of Mount Somma, a reminder of a past shaped by repeated Plinian eruptions and powerful lava flows that have sculpted the surrounding landscape for thousands of years. The most famous event remains the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., a major eruption described in vivid detail by Pliny the Younger, whose letters are still considered a milestone in the history of volcanology. That catastrophic volcanic eruption buried the ancient city and the city of Pompeii, along with neighboring Torre Annunziata, under thick layers of ash, lapilli, pumice, and devastating pyroclastic flows and mudflow deposits.
Today, the excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum form one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Italy, recognized by UNESCO, and continue to reveal how Roman society functioned at the height of the Empire. Ironically, the same destructive forces that overwhelmed the Italian towns ensured their extraordinary preservation. The volcanic system sits along a complex subduction zone, where the African plate dives beneath the Eurasian one—an arrangement that explains both the frequency of Plinian eruptions and the intense eruptive styles that have marked Campania through the centuries. Even in modern times, researchers note parallels between ancient accounts and the behavior of explosive volcanoes worldwide, from Rome to New York, showing how the lessons learned from Vesuvius continue to shape our understanding of volcanic risk.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
What is the current height of Mount Vesuvius?
Mount Vesuvius rises to 1,281 m above sea level, a value that may change over time because the Gran Cono evolves after eruptions. Its height has fluctuated historically due to events like the 1631 and 1944 eruptions. These shifts also affect the inner shape of the crater. Its stratovolcano structure makes long-term variability normal. Future measurements may update the official elevation.
How dangerous is Mount Vesuvius today?
Mount Vesuvius is considered dormant but potentially dangerous because over 700,000 people live in its highest-risk area. Civil protection authorities have defined a red zone exposed to major hazards if activity resumes. Warning signs such as gas-composition changes or minor quakes are constantly monitored. The risk comes from its historically explosive eruptions rather than frequency.
When did Vesuvius last erupt?
The last eruption occurred in 1944, producing lava fountains up to 800 m high and covering several towns in ash. It reshaped the crater and started the current dormant phase. No new eruptions have occurred since, though a magma reservoir at a depth of 8 km indicates ongoing volcanic activity.
Is it dangerous to visit Mount Vesuvius today?
Visiting Mount Vesuvius today is not considered dangerous, as the area is continuously monitored by the Vesuvius Observatory and access to the crater is supervised by official park guides who ensure a controlled and safe hike. The volcano has been dormant since 1944 and, importantly, it cannot erupt without warning: any future activity would be preceded by clear signs such as micro-earthquakes, changes in gas emissions, or ground deformation — all monitored in real time. Access is suspended only during bad weather or by order of the authorities. The trail is safe but requires proper footwear and attention.
Is the Vesuvius trail suitable for children? Can I use a stroller?
The Vesuvius trail is suitable for children who can walk on uneven terrain, but it is not accessible for strollers. The path to the crater includes steep sections, loose volcanic ash and gravel, making stroller use unsafe and impractical. For very young kids, a baby carrier or hiking backpack is recommended. Children in good physical condition can complete the hike safely, as long as they are supervised and wear proper footwear.
How can I reach Mount Vesuvius from Naples, Pompeii, or Herculaneum?
From Naples, take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi or Pompei Villa dei Misteri, then board a direct shuttle (€22 round trip including entry). By car, follow the A3 highway and signs for “Vesuvio.”
Where can I park when visiting Mount Vesuvius?
An official parking area sits at about 800 meters above sea level near Herculaneum, costing €6 per day. From there, shuttles run to the ticket office for €2 round trip (free for children). The uphill walk can be steep, so the shuttle is the most convenient option to save energy for the crater trail.
How long is the hike to the crater and how difficult is it?
The round-trip trail is about 4 km with a 140-meter elevation gain and an average 14% slope. It’s a moderately easy walk, suitable for most visitors. Expect a 30–40 minute hike depending on pace and photo stops along the breathtaking views.
When is the best time to visit Mount Vesuvius?
The best months are May, June, and September, with mild weather and blooming trails. July and August can be quite hot, while winter offers fewer crowds but possible snow. Try to avoid rainy days, as the volcanic terrain can become slippery and unsafe.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If heavy rain or strong winds occur, the crater trail may be temporarily closed for safety reasons. Visitors can reschedule or receive a refund in such cases. Decisions are made by park staff based on the latest weather assessments and safety protocols.
Is the trail accessible for people with disabilities or families?
The main crater path is not wheelchair-friendly, but the park offers accessible routes like Trail No. 11 – Pineta di Terzigno.
What can you see along the trail to the crater?
On the way up, you’ll enjoy views of the Tirone Reserve, Gulf of Naples, and Valle dell’Inferno. Midway, spot Punta Nasone and Cognoli di Ottaviano, continuing toward Baracca Forestale before reaching the crater rim overlooking Pompeii and the Apennines.
Where can I eat near Mount Vesuvius?
At the foot of the volcano, you’ll also find many traditional restaurants and several Vesuvian wineries offering tastings of local wines and regional dishes. Some of them has a shuttle service from the train station.