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Vesuvius

Naples, Italy

Rating 5 /5

Veronika Pololáníková

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Place description

Just a few kilometres from the bustling streets of Naples rises majestic Vesuvius – seemingly tranquil, but with a past that has certainly not been quiet. This iconic volcano is one of the most famous in the world and one of only a handful of active volcanoes on the European mainland. It was most famous for its devastating eruption in 79 AD, when it buried the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under layers of ash and rock in a matter of hours. Today Vesuvius is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

The climb to the top is not too demanding, but the view of the monumental crater and the entire Bay of Naples is unforgettable. And although it looks quiet today, there is still active life inside the volcano, which is constantly monitored by scientists. Occasionally, a light cloud of steam still rises from the crater, a silent reminder that Vesuvius sleeps, but never fully rests.

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Good to know

Opening hours (entrance to the top)

January, February, November, December: 9:00-15:00
March, October: 9:00-16:00
April-June, September: 9:00-17:00
July, August: 9:00-18:00

Tickets

It is necessary to buy them in advance online at official website
Access to the top is only possible with a valid ticket for a specific time.

How to get to Vesuvius from Naples:

By my own car

Length of journey: Approximately 45 minutes from Naples.
Target: Parking lot Parcheggio Vesuvio Quota 1000 at an altitude of 1000 m above sea level.
NoteA: Parking is subject to a charge and must be booked and paid in advance via the Ercolano City Hall website.
Retrieved from: From the car park a footpath leads to the crater rim, the length of the route is about 1 km uphill.

Journey from Naples to Pompeii and Vesuvius – train and bus

Train from Naples: Departs from Napoli Centrale station (part of Napoli Piazza Garibaldi) and goes to the stop Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri. The ride takes about 35-40 minutes, the ticket costs around 3,20€ and you can buy it in the vending machine or at the ticket office.
Bus from Pompeii to Vesuvius: departs from Piazza Anfiteatro, a few minutes walk from the train station. The journey to the Vesuvio Quota 1000 car park takes about 50-60 minutes via a serpentine route. The ticket costs about €3.10 and you buy it from the driver. Buses can be late and tend to be full in the summer season, so you may have to wait for the next connection.

Vesuvio Express – direct transfer from Naples

Length of trip: Approximately 1 hour from the centre of Naples.
Route: A direct bus will pick you up in the centre of Naples and take you to the car park Parcheggio Vesuvio Quota 1000 below the top of Vesuvius.
Price: Approximately 30-50 € per person, includes return ticket, entrance fee and guide.
Reservations: Required in advance online on platforms such as GetYourGuide, Viator, Civitatis or GetTransfer.
Convenient and fast transport without transfers, suitable for those who want to save time and travel in comfort.
From the car park there is a 1 km long walking trail uphill to the crater rim.

Refreshments:

Although there are places upstairs where you can buy coffee or a candy bar, it’s better to bring your lunch.

Weather forecast

Weather forecast for Vesuvius, Naples, Italy

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Vesuvius is one of the places and trip tips in Italy. The detail page covers essentials like opening hours, terrain difficulty and our rating. Part of the Retkee collection of trusted tips for experienced travelers.

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Vesuvius

Place description

Find this and more in our verified guides & itineraries.

From Naples to Amalfi: The most beautiful trips around

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