Mt. Vesuvius (Monte Vesuvio)

Mt. Vesuvius is easily seen 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 tours combine a visit to the area with a stop in Pompeii, Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast.

• 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.

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, which provide transportation, crater access, and insight into the history and details of ancient life in the area.

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.

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.

Plan to spend at least 3–4 hours visiting Mt. Vesuvius, including the hike to the crater rim. The trail to the crater, called Il Gran Cono, is about 2.2 miles (3.6 kilometers) and takes about 1–2 hours to complete. Generally, you can visit Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii in one day.

Yes, hiking Mt. Vesuvius is worth it. The roughly 2.2-mile (3.6-kilometer) hike to the summit along the Il Gran Cono trail is relatively short, and the payoff is a chance to peer into the volcano's active crater and catch marvelous views of Sorrento and the Bay of Naples.

No, you don't need to join a tour to visit Mt. Vesuvius—anyone with an admission ticket can hike to the summit. Travelers visiting on their own can reach Mt. Vesuvius National Park by bus from Pompeii or the Vesuvio Express shuttle from Herculaneum, and drivers can park off the Strada Provinciale 114.

No, you don't need to join a tour to visit Mt. Vesuvius—anyone with an admission ticket can hike to the summit. Travelers visiting on their own can reach Mt. Vesuvius National Park by bus from Pompeii or the Vesuvio Express shuttle from Herculaneum, and drivers can park off the Strada Provinciale 114.

What you wear to climb Mt. Vesuvius depends on the time of year, but generally, you should wear clothing you're comfortable walking in, hiking boots or athletic shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. It's also good to dress in layers as the temperature can suddenly change, and consider taking a walking stick.

It’s generally cooler on top of Mt. Vesuvius, which is about 4,200 feet (1,280 meters) above sea level, than it is at the base or surrounding towns and Naples. While it can be windy, it doesn't get truly cold until late fall and winter when snowfall is possible.