Quick Information

ADDRESS

Mount Vesuvius, 80044 Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

RECOMMENDED DURATION

4 hours

Timings

09:00–18:00

VISITORS PER YEAR

1000000

TICKETS

From $23.18

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

True or false: You can see smoke coming from the crater? ✅ Sometimes.

True or false: It only erupted once. ❌ 50+ known eruptions.

What to do at Mount Vesuvius?

1/5

🌋 Walk the rim of an active volcano

Hike up to the summit of Mount Vesuvius, the only active volcano on mainland Europe. At 1,281 meters, you’ll stand on the edge of a massive crater and witness steaming fumaroles—raw proof of the Earth's power.

🌄 Enjoy beautiful views of Naples, Capri and more

Enjoy sweeping vistas of Naples, the Bay of Naples, Capri, and Pompeii from the crater rim. The combination of sky, sea, and volcano creates an unforgettable panorama.

🕰️ Learn about ancient Roman history

Step onto the site of the infamous AD 79 eruption that froze Pompeii and Herculaneum in time. Vesuvius connects you directly to one of the most tragic events in Roman history.

🍷 Sip wine from volcanic soil

Take a vineyard tour and taste wines like Lacryma Christi, grown in Vesuvius’s mineral-rich soil. Expect local delicacies, cellar visits, and a true flavor of the region’s heritage.

🏛️ Explore Pompeii & Herculaneum

No visit to Vesuvius is complete without exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites, buried by the AD 79 eruption, offer a fascinating look into ancient Roman life with remarkably preserved structures and artifacts.

Geography of Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, located in the Campania region of Italy, near the Bay of Naples, is a stratovolcano known for its towering peak and steep slopes. It rises about 1,281 meters (4,203 feet) above sea level. It is known for its steep, conical shape. The geography around the volcano features a mix of fertile volcanic soil, rugged terrain, and lush vegetation, particularly on its lower slopes. The volcano's distinctive crater, formed from past eruptions, offers a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock and fumaroles, showcasing the dynamic nature of Italy's Mount Vesuvius.

History of Mount Vesuvius

79 AD: The most famous eruption of Mount Vesuvius, which destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Stabiae. Thousands of people perished as the cities were buried under ash and pumice.
1631: One of the largest eruptions since 79 AD, causing widespread devastation in nearby villages and resulting in over 3,000 deaths.
1779: A powerful eruption sent lava fountains over 3 kilometers into the air. It was visible from Naples and became a famous event in Europe.
1906: Another major eruption caused significant damage to Naples and other nearby towns. Over 100 people were killed, and lava destroyed several villages.
1944: The most recent major eruption occurred during World War II, destroying nearby villages and damaging aircraft at a U.S. military base.
Ongoing: Mount Vesuvius is currently dormant but remains an active volcano under close monitoring.

Mount Vesuvius eruptions through the years

Myths and legends about Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, famous for its deadly eruption in AD 79, has inspired all sorts of myths and legends over the centuries. One of the most well-known is the idea that the eruption was divine retribution against the decadent cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Back then, people often saw natural disasters as the gods' way of showing their displeasure, so it made sense to them that Vesuvius's eruption was a response to the cities' perceived moral decay.

The volcano was also linked to the Roman god Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking. People believed that Vulcan's forge was located beneath Vesuvius, and that the eruptions were caused by his powerful hammering as he crafted weapons for the gods. This connection added a sense of mystery and divine power to the volcano, making it seem like more than just a natural phenomenon.

Is it safe to visit Mount Vesuvius?

Mount Vesuvius is an active volcano and has the potential to be dangerous, but visiting the volcano is generally safe as long as visitors follow the guidelines and advice of local authorities. The Italian Civil Protection agency monitors the volcano closely and has systems in place to detect any signs of activity. In the unlikely event of an eruption, the authorities have evacuation plans in place to ensure the safety of visitors and local residents. Visitors are advised to stick to designated trails and follow the advice of their guide.

Mount Vesuvius in pop culture

Andy Warhol's painting "Vesuvius" (1985) captures the volcano’s explosive power through vibrant colors and bold strokes, symbolizing both creation and destruction. Warhol was fascinated by Vesuvius as an icon of natural force. The volcano also appears in literature, films, and music, symbolizing both destruction and rebirth. From Pliny the Younger's historical accounts to modern films like Pompeii (2014), Mount Vesuvius remains a powerful cultural symbol of nature's might.

Frequently asked questions about Mount Vesuvius

Why is Mount Vesuvius famous?

Mount Vesuvius is famous for its catastrophic eruption in AD 79, which buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under volcanic ash and pumice. It remains one of the most well-known and studied volcanoes in the world. Its ongoing activity and dramatic eruptions make it a significant geological and historical landmark.

When is the next Mount Vesuvius eruption?

Predicting the exact timing of volcanic eruptions is challenging. Scientists use various monitoring techniques to assess volcanic activity and potential eruptions, but exact dates can't be determined.

Is there an age limit for hiking Mount Vesuvius?

There’s no strict age limit, but the hike can be challenging for young children and the elderly due to uneven terrain and elevation gain.

Who first discovered Pompeii, the city destroyed by Vesuvius?

Pompeii's ruins were initially uncovered in the late 16th century by architect Domenico Fontana.

What about Herculaneum?

Karl Weber (1712-1764) was the pioneering archaeologist who meticulously explored Herculaneum, resulting in some of the most significant discoveries of the ancient world.

Are guided tours available at Mount Vesuvius?

Yes, guided tours are available and often include transportation. These tours provide insights into the volcano’s history and geology, making the experience more enriching. You can visit the online tickets page to know more.

How long does the hike to the crater take?

The hike takes about 20-30 minutes from the parking lot to the crater rim. It’s advisable to plan for a total visit time of around 2-3 hours.

Can I drive up to the summit of Mount Vesuvius?

No, vehicles can only go as far as the parking area below the summit. From there, it’s a short but steep hike to the top.

Is there any danger from volcanic gases?

While gases are emitted, they’re not typically dangerous to visitors. However, it’s crucial to stay on designated paths and avoid the crater rim.