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Park · Pompeia, Campânia
Vesuvio – Gran Cono
Trail to the rim of the Vesúvio crater, the volcano that destroyed Pompeia, within the Vesúvio National Park. Tickets are sold online only, with timed entry.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Vesuvio – Gran Cono
The Vesúvio, at about 1,280 metres, is the volcano that dominates the Gulf of Naples. After the AD 79 eruption that buried Pompeia and Herculano it has erupted several times; the last eruption was in 1944 during World War II. It is now closely monitored by volcanologists.
The hike is along sentiero 5, Il Gran Cono, which starts from the car park at roughly one thousand metres altitude in the municipality of Ercolano. It is about 4 km round trip, with around 200 metres of ascent, on a wide trail of sand and volcanic lapilli.
At the top you walk along part of the crater rim, from where you can see the volcano's floor, fumaroles and, on clear days, the whole gulf from Naples to Capri and the Sorrento peninsula.
Tickets are sold only online through the park's official platform, with timed slots and limited numbers. The trail closes in strong wind, rain or fire risk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Around two hours on the trail, plus transport time to the car park.
Best time
In the morning, when the air is usually clearer. The trail is open year-round, with earlier last entry times in winter; check that day's schedule.
How to get there
There are buses and shuttles from Ercolano Scavi and Pompei Scavi stations and from Naples to the Quota 1000 car park. By car, follow the road from Ercolano.
Tip
Buy your ticket in advance: there is no ticket office on site. Wear sneakers or boots with good soles and bring a warm layer, because it's windy up there. Bring water.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Vesuvio – Gran Cono
Do I need to reserve to climb Vesuvius?
Yes. The ticket for the Gran Cono trail is sold only online, with a set time and limited slots. There is no ticket office on site.
Is the trail difficult?
It's short, about 4 km round trip and 200 meters of elevation gain, but the volcanic sand ground is slippery. Go with closed-toe shoes.
How to get to the trailhead without a car?
By bus or van departing from Ercolano Scavi or Pompei Scavi stations, or from Naples, to the Quota 1000 parking area.
Can the trail close?
Yes, in case of strong wind, rain, or fire risk. Check on the day.