Mount Vesuvius, the volcano near Naples, Italy, is a stratovolcano formed from two separate volcanoes. At the cone’s summit is a crater that’s 1,000 feet deep, created from countless eruptions over the years, with the most notorious one being in 79 AD, which buried Pompeii and Herculaneum.

What is a crater?

The crater is the bowl-shaped depression at the top of a volcano where the eruption happens. The Vesuvius crater lets you see this volcanic landscape up close and enjoy some incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Bay of Naples.

Crater vs Caldera

Mount Vesuvius has a crater rather than a caldera. A crater is a smaller, bowl-shaped depression at the summit of a volcano formed by explosive eruptions, like the one at Vesuvius created by past eruptions. In contrast, a caldera is a much larger depression that forms when a volcano’s summit collapses into a partially emptied magma chamber, often after a massive eruption. While Vesuvius’s crater is prominent, a caldera would be much larger and more expansive.

Journey to the top of Mount Vesuvius

Hiking at Vesuvius offers a variety of challenging and scenic trails. On the Valley of Hell trail, you'll traverse sharp turns and lush forests of pine, chestnut, and oak trees. The Along the Cognoli route takes you past broom-filled valleys and Vesuvius' unique lava formations, adorned with ferns. The Mt. Somma trail rewards hikers with views of the Gulf of Naples and vibrant red lilies in spring. For a less demanding hike, the Great Cono trail provides panoramic views of Mount Somma's ridges, while the River of Lava route showcases a mix of oak, chestnut, and hazelnut trees, ending at a historic rainwater well.

The trails like the Valley of Hell, Along the Cognoli, and Mt. Somma are rated as difficult. However, there are some easier options, such as the Great Cono trail and the River of Lava route, which are shorter and have lower difficulty levels, making them more accessible for casual hikers or those looking for a less strenuous experience.

Hike to Mount Vesuvius

Get your Mount Vesuvius tickets

Mount Vesuvius Entry Tickets

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Transfers included

‌

Check availability

From Pompeii: Mount Vesuvius Entry Tickets with Round-Trip Transfers

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hr.

Audio guide

Transfers included

‌

Check availability

From Naples: Mount Vesuvius & Herculaneum or Pompeii Day Trip

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

6 hr. - 8 hr.

Transfers included

‌

Check availability

From Pompeii: Mount Vesuvius & Herculaneum or Pompeii Day Trip

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

5 hr. - 8 hr.

Transfers included

‌

Check availability

Why go on a Mount Vesuvius crater walk?

Soak up beautiful views: The climb rewards you with beautiful views of the Bay of Naples. Keep an eye out for Italian alder, maples and birches as well as oaken mice and Turkish geckos. The paved road takes you within about 200 meters of the summit. From there, you can follow a spiral walkway around the mountain to reach the crater. Every step of the ascent is worth it.
Dive into ancient history: Standing at the edge of the Vesuvius crater offers a powerful connection to the past, letting you appreciate how this dramatic event shaped ancient civilizations and gave us a glimpse into their lives. It’s intimidating given the tragic story behind the eruption.
Discover geological wonders: Uncover the geological marvels that make Mount Vesuvius so intriguing. As you explore the crater, you'll see layers of volcanic ash and hardened lava, which are incredible records of the volcano's explosive history.
It’s an easy hike: You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to go on a Mount Vesuvius crater walk! The path is well-maintained and it takes only about 20-30 minutes to reach the crater from the park entrance. It’s a great fit for children as well as the elderly, if they’re tagging along.

Plan your visit

Can you go into Vesuvius crater?

While you can’t descend into the Vesuvius crater itself, you can get remarkably close — enough to feel the immense power that lies beneath. The hike to the rim of the crater is an adventure in itself, and once you reach the summit, the reward is nothing short of spectacular. Standing at the edge of the crater, you can peer into the deep, bowl-shaped depression carved by centuries of volcanic activity. The sight is both awe-inspiring and humbling, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of one of the world’s most famous and historically significant volcanoes.

This experience isn’t just about the views; it’s about connecting with a landscape that has shaped history. As you stand on the rim, it’s easy to imagine the dramatic events that unfolded here, from the massive eruption that buried Pompeii to the more recent volcanic activity.

To fully enjoy your journey, be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky. And don’t forget your camera—this is a place where nature’s power is on full display, and the memories you capture will be as unique as the experience itself

What you’ll see at the crater’s edge

The first thing that captures your attention at the crater’s edge is the vast, rugged expanse of the crater itself. This deep, gaping bowl, carved out by centuries of volcanic activity, stands as a stark reminder of the immense forces that have shaped this landscape. The crater’s edges are jagged and raw, revealing layers of volcanic rock and ash along its steep walls. The contrast between the dark, almost black basalt and the lighter ash deposits highlights the complexity of this geological wonder.
As you stand on the rim, the energy of the volcano beneath your feet is palpable. Though Mount Vesuvius is currently dormant, fumaroles—small openings in the earth that release steam and gases—serve as a reminder that this is still a living, breathing volcano. These fumaroles emit wisps of steam that curl into the air, adding an eerie, almost surreal element to the scene.
But it’s not just the crater that will take your breath away. The panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The Bay of Naples stretches out before you, its deep blue waters contrasting sharply with the stark, volcanic landscape of Vesuvius. In the distance, the bustling city of Naples lies in contrast to the serene blue of the bay, while the islands of Capri and Ischia rise from the sea like jewels in the Mediterranean.

Geological highlights of Mount Vesuvius crater

Pyroclastic Deposits

Within the crater, you can observe layers of pyroclastic deposits, which are a mixture of volcanic ash, pumice, and other volcanic materials. These layers provide valuable insights into the volcano's eruptive history and the dynamics of past eruptions.

Fumaroles and Solfatara

The crater is also home to fumaroles and solfatara—openings in the Earth’s crust that release gases and steam. These geothermal features show that volcanic activity is still happening beneath the surface and remind us that the volcano could potentially erupt again in the future.

Volcanic Landscapes

The rough terrain around the Mount Vesuvius Crater is full of fascinating volcanic landscapes, like lava flows, volcanic cones, and ash deposits. Checking out these geological features gives visitors a chance to see the different ways volcanic activity has shaped the Earth and helps you appreciate the powerful processes at work.

Mount Vesuvius crater | A breakdown of its formation

Explosive eruptions: The most significant eruption that shaped the Vesuvius crater occurred in 79 AD. This catastrophic eruption expelled a massive amount of volcanic material, including magma, ash, and gasses, with such force that it blew off the top of the volcano. This explosion created the initial bowl-shaped depression at the summit, which is the crater we see today.
Summit collapse: Following the explosion, the central part of the volcano, weakened and partially emptied of magma, collapsed inward. This collapse deepened the depression and further defined the crater's shape.
Subsequent activity: Over the centuries, Vesuvius has had additional eruptions and volcanic activity that modified the crater’s appearance. New layers of volcanic deposits have built up around the crater, but the basic bowl shape created by the 79 AD eruption remains the prominent feature.

Detailed history of Mount Vesuvius

Navigating Mount Vesuvius crater | Key safety tips

Respect warning signs and barriers: Pay attention to any warning signs and barriers around the crater. These are there to protect you from potential hazards, like unstable ground or harmful gases. Don’t cross them!
Check the weather: The weather around Vesuvius can shift quickly. Before heading up, check the forecast. Poor weather might lead to trail closures or make visiting the crater unsafe due to slippery paths or reduced visibility.
Avoid the crater’s edge: Keep a safe distance from the edge of the crater. It’s risky because of loose rocks and potential steam or gas emissions. Don’t try to get too close or climb down into the crater.
Stick to designated paths: Follow the marked trails around the crater. Venturing off the paths can be dangerous due to uneven ground and hidden hazards. Staying on the trails helps you stay safe and enjoy the views without risking injury.
Carry essentials: When visiting the Mount Vesuvius crater, wear sturdy footwear, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Always have a charged phone with local emergency contacts, and stay with your tour group for added safety.

Plan your visit to Mount Vesuvius

Frequently asked questions about Mount Vesuvius crater

Can I hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius Crater?

Yes, you can hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius crater. There is a well-marked trail that leads to the crater, which takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

Is it safe to visit Mount Vesuvius crater?

Yes, it is safe to visit Mount Vesuvius crater. The volcano is closely monitored by scientists, who use a variety of instruments to detect any signs of activity. Visitors should follow all safety guidelines and instructions from authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

What is the best time of year to visit Mount Vesuvius crater?

The best time of year to visit Mount Vesuvius crater is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

What should I wear when visiting Mount Vesuvius crater?

Visitors should wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, as well as comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. It is also recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

Can I bring food and drink to Mount Vesuvius crater?

Yes, you can bring food and drink to Mount Vesuvius crater, but there are a few things to keep in mind. The area around the crater is mostly outdoors, and there are no designated picnic areas or food services right at the top. It’s a good idea to carry any snacks and beverages with you during your hike, but make sure to pack them in a way that doesn’t create litter.

Is Mount Vesuvius still active?

Yes, Mount Vesuvius is still an active volcano. Although it hasn’t erupted since 1944, it remains closely monitored for signs of potential future activity. The volcano’s status is classified as active, and it poses a significant risk to the surrounding areas, including the city of Naples.

Can children hike to the Mount Vesuvius crater?

Yes, children can hike to the Mount Vesuvius crater, though the trail can be challenging for younger kids due to its steep and rocky terrain. It's recommended to assess your child's stamina and ensure they have proper footwear.

Are guided tours available to the crater?

Yes, guided tours to the crater are available and highly recommended. These tours offer informative insights about the volcano's history and geology while ensuring safety and navigation along the trail.