A quick guide to exploring Mt Vesuvius

The world famous volcano of Mt Vesuvius completely buried Pompeii and several other ancient roman towns in 79AD. This active volcano is now in a dormant cycle, so each year hundreds of travellers flock to the Amalfi coast to catch a glimpse of Mt Vesuvius.

Getting there

From Sorrento (an ideal town for exploring the Amalfi Coast) take a Circumvesuviana train (the locals refer to this line as Vesuviana) to Ercolano.

The train to Ercolano takes around 40 minutes and can be combined with a trip to Herculaneum too. At Ercolano station, you’ll be besieged by coach companies all offering return trips to a carpark near the summit. A return ticket costs roughly €10 but prices could’ve risen.

After securing a seat on the coat, expect to be on board for 20 minutes. The coaches loop round winding narrow roads and eventually drop passengers at a car park.

Tip: It’s a long excursion so take water and refreshing snacks with you.

Exploring Mt Vesuvius

Generally, coach companies give hikers 90 minutes to climb to the crater. Before starting to climb, tourists need to pay an entry fee. It’s roughly €10 for adults (but prices could have risen).

The climb to the crater is a gradual 15 minutes. Once you’ve reached the summit, you can wander around the perimeter of the crater. The crater is lined with little shops selling souvenirs and refreshments. But make the most of the allotted 90 minutes to enjoy the views before the journey back to base camp.

More from Campania

• A quick guide to Pompeii and Herculaneum
• A quick guide to Sorrento