Hike the Legendary Mount Vesuvius

Discover the dramatic volcanic landscapes, panoramic views, and ancient history of Vesuvius. Experience Italy's iconic volcano through guided hiking adventures in one of the world's most famous volcanic landscapes.

Elevation

1,281 m

Park Established

1995

Location

Vesuvius National Park, Italy

Mount Vesuvius in Vesuvius National Park

Mount Vesuvius Hiking Trails & Experiences

From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip with Lunch
Guided Tour

From Rome: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius Day Trip with Lunch

Discover Pompeii's ruins & Mt. Vesuvius on a day trip from Rome. Savor a 3-course lunch and customize your experience with an exciting volcano hike or a leisurely exploration guided by a geologist.

Transport included Guided tour Lunch included
$140
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Naples: Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius with Lunch & Wine tasting
Guided Tour

Naples: Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius with Lunch & Wine tasting

Skip the lines and explore the ruins of Pompeii. Hike the slopes of the volcano Vesuvius with a local specialized guide and enjoy a wine tasting in a local vineyard with a traditional Italian lunch.

Guided Pompeii Wine tasting Lunch included
$136
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Mount Vesuvius: Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide
Audio Tour

Mount Vesuvius: Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide

Skip-the-line entry to Mount Vesuvius with an audio guide. Explore at your own pace and learn the volcano’s history while enjoying panoramic summit views.

Skip-the-line Audio guide Self-paced
$$24
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About Mount Vesuvius National Park

Mount Vesuvius is one of the world's most famous volcanoes, located on the Bay of Naples in southern Italy. Rising to 1,281 meters, it is renowned for its dramatic eruptions and fertile slopes.

The volcano is best known for the catastrophic eruption in AD 79 that buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Today, Vesuvius is a symbol of both natural beauty and historical significance.

Vesuvius National Park features unique volcanic landscapes, Mediterranean flora, and a network of hiking trails - making it a must-visit for hikers, history lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Explore Park Features
Hiking on Mount Vesuvius

Why Visit Mount Vesuvius?

Iconic Active Volcano

Stand on the rim of one of Europe's most famous volcanoes and peer into the vast crater.

Mediterranean Flora

Walk through pine forests, wildflowers, and unique plants thriving on volcanic soil.

Ancient Ruins Nearby

Combine your hike with visits to Pompeii and Herculaneum, preserved by Vesuvius's eruption.

Sweeping Views

Enjoy panoramic vistas of Naples, the Bay, and the Sorrento Peninsula from the summit.

The Story of Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius has shaped the history and culture of the region for millennia. Its fertile slopes have supported vineyards and villages since ancient times.

The eruption of AD 79 destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, preserving them under ash for centuries. Today, these archaeological sites offer a window into Roman life.

Vesuvius remains an active volcano, monitored closely for signs of activity. The national park was established in 1995 to protect its unique environment and heritage.

Learn more about Vesuvius's history

Park Features & Highlights

Vesuvius Crater

Vesuvius Crater

Walk along the rim of the massive crater and witness fumaroles and volcanic rocks up close.

Pine Forests

Pine Forests

Explore fragrant pine woods and Mediterranean scrub that cover the lower slopes of the volcano.

Wildflowers

Wildflowers

In spring and summer, the park bursts with colorful wildflowers unique to the volcanic landscape.

Summit Views

Summit Views

From the top, enjoy sweeping views of Naples, the Bay, and the islands of Capri and Ischia.

Planning Your Mount Vesuvius Adventure

Visitors hiking at Mount Vesuvius

Make the most of your adventure with these essential tips:

  • Prepare for conditions – Weather can change quickly. Bring sun protection, water, and sturdy shoes.
  • Check park updates – Trails may close due to volcanic activity or maintenance. Visit the park website before your trip.
  • Arrive early – Especially in summer, to avoid crowds and midday heat.
  • Know your limits – Some trails are steep and exposed. Choose routes that match your fitness.
  • Respect the environment – Stay on marked paths and do not remove rocks or plants.
  • Combine your visit – Explore Pompeii, Herculaneum, or local wineries nearby.

Find Mount Vesuvius National Park

Address: Via Vesuvio, 80044 Ottaviano NA, Italy

Coordinates: 40.8224°N, 14.4289°E

Located near Naples, about 30 minutes by car from the city center or accessible by train and shuttle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring water. Weather can be hot and sunny or windy at the summit.

Yes! The main crater trail is suitable for families, but some routes are steep. Always supervise children.

Entry to the crater area requires a ticket. Other trails in the park are generally free.

Absolutely. Vesuvius offers stunning photo opportunities. Drones may be restricted - check park rules.

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busiest and hottest.

Some visitor areas are accessible, but most trails are steep and uneven. Contact the park for details.

Look for lizards, butterflies, birds, and unique plants adapted to the volcanic slopes.

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