Mount Vesuvius: Day Trips and Tours from Naples

Mount Vesuvius is a formidable volcano that looms over the Italian city of Naples. Its iconic cone shape stands at 4,203 feet (1281 meters) tall and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Italy.

The mountain has been dormant since 1944, but its history as an active volcano has left a permanent mark on the landscape and culture of Naples.

A day trip to Mount Vesuvius from Naples offers visitors stunning views, fascinating geological features, lessons about the region's unique past and a chance to explore one of Europe's most famous volcanoes up close.

Here's all you need to know about Mount Vesuvius, one of the most exciting day trips from Naples.

How to get to Mount Vesuvius From Naples?

Mount Vesuvius is located on Italy's western coast, in the Campania region as part of the Campanian volcanic arc. It sits about 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) east of Naples, overlooking the city and the Bay of Naples, and can be reached in a few different ways.

From Naples to Mount Vesuvius by car

Thanks to its proximity, getting to Mount Vesuvius by car is a great option. You can rent a car in Naples and make the roughly 30-minute drive to the volcano's base.

To get there from the city center, take the A3 Napoli-Salerno highway east to the Torre del Greco or Herculaneum exit and then simply follow the signs for "Vesuvio" which will direct along the winding path to Vesuvio National Park.

From Naples to Mount Vesuvius by public transport

You have a few options for reaching Mount Vesuvius by public transportation. The most popular option is taking the Circumvesuviana train to the Ercolano Scavi station and then taking the Vesuvio Express bus — a roughly 50-minute journey.

Alternatively, take the EAV Naples-Vesuvio bus from the Piazza Piedigrotta terminus in Naples. This will take you close to the Gran Cono walking path.

Guided tour to Mount Vesuvius From Naples

A guided tour is the most straightforward way to get from Naples to Mount Vesuvius, as it picks you up from your Naples hotel (or a central meeting point) and takes care of all return transport for you.

Most guided tours will include a few different stops in the area, including visits to Pompeii and Herculaneum.

How much does the entrance ticket to Mount Vesuvius cost?

The cost of entry to Mount Vesuvius National Park is roughly €15 per adult over 25 years old and €12 for visitors between 6 and 25 years old.

This grants you entrance to the hiking path but does not include the cost of transportation, so make sure to plan for that too.

If you want to visit nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum as part of your tour, you'll need to buy separate tickets. For the best value for money, a guided tour that includes all entry tickets and transport is recommended.

What is the typical itinerary?

There are several different options for exploring Mount Vesuvius. Most people opt to take a guided tour of the volcano's walking path. These tours typically start with convenient hotel pickup from your accommodation in Naples.

After meeting your guide and fellow tour members, you’ll set off on the roughly 30-minute drive to Mount Vesuvius, passing by the town of Torre del Greco.

Once you arrive, your guide will lead you up the Gran Cono walking path, which offers stunning views of the volcano crater, Naples and its bay from over 1,000 meters high.

Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about the volcano’s history and geology — including the devastation to nearby ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum — making sure you understand what you’re seeing.

A light lunch and refreshments are often included in the tour, as well as a stop for souvenir shopping at the end. After your descent from Mount Vesuvius, you’ll be returned safely to your Naples hotel or other drop-off location.

Depending on your tour of choice, you might also visit nearby sites like Pompeii, Herculaneum or wineries.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Mount Vesuvius?

There are a number of tour options available for visiting Mount Vesuvius. The most popular option is a guided tour.

However, you can also choose from private tours and combination tours. This means there is something to suit every budget and style of travel.

Guided tours to Mount Vesuvius from Naples

Led by local experts, these guided tours are the most popular and budget-friendly options.

They usually start with hotel pickup and include a stop at the Gran Cono walking path. Since this is a small group tour with other visitors often part of the group, it's a great option if you're looking to meet fellow travelers.

Private tour to Mount Vesuvius from Naples

For a more personalized experience, opt for a private Mount Vesuvius tour — ideal for couples, families or small groups.

You’ll get the same level of expertise as the guided tour but your guide will focus solely on you and any other members of your group.

This can be great if you want to spend extra time at certain points like the Pompeii ancient ruins, or have special requests along the way, like stopping at wineries.

Private tours are more expensive, but they're worth it if you want more personal attention.

Day trip to Mount Vesuvius plus Pompeii and Herculaneum from Naples

This style of tour is most popular among history buffs. You’ll get the same pickup and guided tour of Mount Vesuvius, but you’ll also be taken to nearby Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Here, you’ll explore the ruins of these ancient cities, learning about their history and how they were destroyed by the volcano’s eruption. This type of tour is generally longer, and slightly more expensive, than a basic guided tour to Mount Vesuvius.

Day tour to Mount Vesuvius plus Sorrento and Amalfi Coast from Naples

The most comprehensive option is a day tour to Mount Vesuvius plus the beautiful Amalfi Coast. This full-day experience combines a guided tour of the volcano with a scenic drive along southern Italy’s coastlines.

You’ll have ample time to explore each village and destination, as well as a stop for lunch along the way. Some options include wine tasting, cooking classes and limoncello tastings too.

This type of day tour is perfect if you want to explore multiple attractions in one day, but it generally is more expensive and longer.

How much does a day trip to Mount Vesuvius from Naples cost?

The price of Mount Vesuvius tours from Naples varies depending on the type of tour you choose, but generally starts at around €60.

Small group guided tours are the most budget-friendly option, with prices ranging between €60 and €100 per person.

Private tours are more expensive, with prices starting at around €150 per person, varying depending on the number of people in your group.

Combination tours that include Pompeii and Herculaneum can cost between €60 and €200, while tours including the Amalfi Coast start at €90 for group tours or €200+ for private tours.

What will you see and do?

On a day tour to Mount Vesuvius, you'll see the volcano itself, as well as several nearby attractions, depending on your chosen day trip.

Mount Vesuvius

When visiting Italy, a pilgrimage to its most renowned volcano is essential. Not only will you gain knowledge about the catastrophic eruption of 79 AD - responsible for annihilating Pompeii and Herculaneum - but also experience outstanding sights on the Gran Cono walking path.

Pompeii

Once a thriving port city, Pompeii was buried beneath ash and rock during Mount Vesuvius' eruption. It has since been excavated to reveal an ancient city frozen in time, with intricate mosaics, structures and frescos still intact.

Herculaneum

Like Pompeii, Herculaneum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history lovers. This ancient Roman city was also destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and its site is scattered with ruins, artifacts and even preserved wood.

Amalfi Coast or Sorrento

Popular on combination day tours, the Amalfi Coast provides a beautiful contrast to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Here, you'll enjoy stunning views as you drive along its winding coastline, stopping in towns like Amalfi, Positano or Sorrento to explore its picturesque plazas, old churches and delicious restaurants.

Wineries

The fertile soil and mild climate of the Campania region make it ideal for growing grapes. On some tours, you can stop at local wineries to sample the local vintages, learn more about the winemaking process and explore their vineyards.

If your combination tour includes Sorrento, expect to also sample limoncello, a classic Italian liqueur made from lemons.

The Gulf of Naples

From the top of Mount Vesuvius, you'll also be able to spot the stunning view of the Gulf of Naples and its islands in the distance. Depending on the tour you choose, you may visit bayside towns for a change of scenery and up-close look at the coast too.

What are the opening times?

Mount Vesuvius is open for visitors all year round. It opens at 9 AM but closes at different times depending on the season.

In the winter it will close as early as 3 PM. In the summer it will stay open until 6 PM. It's advised that you plan your visit in the morning to make sure you get enough time to explore.

When is the best time to visit Mount Vesuvius?

The trail to the crater is open all year round, barring bad weather. However, the best time to visit Mount Vesuvius is during the summer months (June-August) when the days are longer and the weather is warmer.

If you prefer to avoid the summer heat and busy crowds, then the months of May and September are considered good times to visit.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. You'll be walking on uneven ground and the temperature can vary depending on the altitude.
• Book your tour online and in advance. This will ensure you can travel on your preferred date.
• For the best value for money, consider a combination tour that visits multiple sites in one day.
• Don't forget your camera - the views from Mount Vesuvius are incredible and you'll want to capture them!