Mount Vesuvius, near Naples

About Vesuvius

Vesuvius stands on the eastern shore of the Bay of Naples, its twin-peaked outline visible from almost everywhere in the city. The main cone rises to about 1,281 metres. It's the only active volcano on mainland Europe and is watched by scientists around the clock.

The volcano is famous for the eruption of AD 79, which buried the Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum and preserved them to this day. Today Vesuvius is quiet: pines and vineyards cover its slopes, and since 1995 it has been the heart of a national park.

The slopes produce Lacryma Christi wine, the 'tears of Christ', and the fertile volcanic soil grows tomatoes and apricots. Above Ercolano stands the Vesuvius Observatory, founded in 1841, the oldest volcano observatory in the world.

Climbing to the crater

Cars and buses climb to a car park at about 1,000 metres. From there a wide gravel path zigzags up to the crater in 30 to 40 minutes. It isn't technical but it is steepish and shadeless, so wear good shoes and bring water.

At the top the path runs along the crater rim: on one side a vast hollow of scree with wisps of steam, on the other the whole bay, with Naples, Capri, the Sorrento peninsula and, on clear days, Ischia and Procida.

There's a small café and a souvenir stall at the top. The walk back down the same path takes about half an hour.

What to see on Vesuvius

• The crater — a vast hollow of scree.
• The Gran Cono path — the zigzag up to the rim.
• The bay view — Naples, Capri and Sorrento.
• Pines and lava fields — on the way up.
• Vesuvius Observatory — the historic building on the slope.
• Lacryma Christi wineries — on the lower slopes.

Combining it with Pompeii and Herculaneum

Vesuvius pairs easily with the ruins in one day. Buses to the crater leave from Ercolano Scavi station, so you can visit Herculaneum after coming down. Buses also run from Pompei Scavi, making the day the volcano in the morning and Pompeii after lunch.

Mornings are quieter on the volcano, with clearer views; by midday a haze often settles over the bay. The path is hot in summer, so take an early bus.

Tips for the climb

Wear closed shoes with good soles: the gravel slips, and sandals or flip-flops make it hard going. Bring water, a hat and a windproof layer. Poles aren't needed, but people with bad knees may find the descent harder than the climb.

The climb is fine with children, and school groups come up all the time, but buggies can't manage the gravel. Allow half a day for the climb and descent, including the journey from Naples.

How to do it right

• Book a timed crater ticket ahead.
• Closed shoes and a windproof.
• Mornings have clearer views.
• Pair it with Pompeii or Herculaneum.

Questions