Climbing to the top of Mt. Vesuvius, Naples, Italy

The earliest written accounts of Mt. Vesuvius describe it as a lush green mountain, planted with vines and crops that flourished in the fertile soil. It wasn’t until the massive eruption in AD 79 that it became violently clear that what loomed over the Bay of Naples was instead an angry and unpredictable volcano. It was this that destroyed the famous cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum that you can visit today, and since then, Vesuvius has erupted many times.

Vesuvius’s last sign of life was in 1944 during World War II but since then the volcano has remained eerily quiet. After the last eruption Vesuvius has been continually monitored and expert volcanologists say another eruption could happen again unexpectedly. Perhaps it is better not to dwell on the fact that the volcano’s current silence is the longest in the past 500 years.

Visiting Mt. Vesuvius is an impressive experience. At 1,281 meters (4,202 feet), the volcano offers tremendous views of the Bay of Naples and the chance to climb the only active volcano in mainland Europe. Vesuvius is now surrounded by a protected area called the Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio, which was established in 1995.

To reach the crater, walking tours are lead regularly by volcanologist guides who will lead you up the steep pathway to the top. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minute each way, and you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for cooler temperatures at the summit, even in the summer months.

Once at the top, walk around the central crater for the most impressive views. Be sure to look for the ruins of Pompeii near the base of the volcano. The panorama is awe-inspiring and the calm total. Listen to the sound of the wind sweeping over the crater and imagine the destructive power of this seemingly serene spot.

How to Get There
Mount Vesuvius is an ever-present figure in the Bay of Naples, and is an easy day trip from Naples, Sorrento, Salerno and the Amalfi Coast. The summit is reachable by car or public transportation.
By Car: Travelling by car from Naples or Salerno, follow the A3 Autostrada and exit at “Ercolano Portico.” Follow the signs marked “Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio,” which will lead you to the summit of Vesuvius, where you can park your car for a small fee.
By Bus: Several bus companies run frequent and affordable services to the top of the volcano. In Pompeii take the Vesuviani Mobilità buses from the Piazza Anfiteatro or Piazza Porta Inferiore. There are approximately ten round-trip buses per day, and the trip takes about an hour each way. Certain Vesuviani Mobilità buses also stop in Ercolano on Via Panoramica near the Ercolano-Scavi Circumvesuviana train station. Vesuvio Express operates round-trip bus services from outside the same train station.
By Rail: To reach Mt. Vesuvius by rail, transfer to the Circumvesuviana railway line in Naples. Trains runs about every half hour throughout the day. Exit at the Ercolano-Scavi or Pompeii-Scavi stops and continue by bus or private taxi.