Mount Vesuvius crater path

The path to the Gran Cono of Vesuvius, designated Trail No. 5 in the national park, starts at the Piazzale di Quota 1000 in Ercolano at 1,000 m. The route is 4,010 m long and reaches a maximum of 1,175 m; the park classes it as easy and short. The crater is up to 580 m across. According to the park, the open path currently ends at the Capannuccia (1,170 m); the summit route is closed for safety works and is off limits without authorisation (as of October 2026).

Tickets are sold online only. Entry is limited to 360 people an hour, who walk in groups of 20 with a guide, and access is closed when an orange or higher weather alert is in force (as of October 2026). By car, take the Torre del Greco exit of the A3 to a car park at 800 m. From there it is a walk of about 30 minutes (1.8 km), or you can take the shuttle to the piazzale. Allow about two and a half hours in total.

Wikivoyage advises an early start, water and a windproof jacket, as a cool wind often blows at the crater rim; closed shoes are needed because of the loose, dusty ground, and cloud or fog is frequent.