Booking choice: The small group with pizza, from $133 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
The coach takes you up the winding road to the trailhead of the Gran Cono path, trail No. 5 of the Vesuvius National Park, the only path to the crater rim. From there you are on foot.
Guests describe it in almost the same words: steep, gravelly, shorter than it feels, and worth it.
The quick answer
From the drop-off at about 1,000 metres it is roughly 2 km of steep gravel switchbacks to the rim at 1,175 metres. Guests report 30 to 35 minutes up at a steady pace, with places to stop. The trail closes on weather-alert days, and it is cooler and windier at the top.
How long is the walk to the Vesuvius crater?
About 2 km up from the tour drop-off, taking most people 30 to 35 minutes, then the same path back down.
Tours usually allow around 70 to 90 minutes at Vesuvius in total, so you have time to walk part of the rim and take photos before heading down.
How hard is it?
Moderate: the path is wide and well kept but steep the whole way, on loose gravel.
Guests in their 70s and children of 4 and 7 have made it, while others describe it as a genuine climb. Go at your own pace; there is no prize for being first. Walking poles help on the way down, when the gravel is slippery.
Want a guide on the trail with you? The small-group day includes an alpine guide for the crater visit.
Check dates for the small group with pizzaCan you drive to the top of Vesuvius?
No. Vehicles stop below the trailhead; the last stretch to the rim is on foot for everyone.
Tour coaches drop you near the trailhead at about 1,000 metres. Independent drivers park lower, at about 800 metres, and take a short shuttle or walk up.
What do you see at the top?
An elliptical crater up to 580 metres across, with steaming fumaroles, and on a clear day views over Naples, Sorrento, Capri and the whole bay.
The park describes the rim at a maximum of 1,175 metres. Low cloud can hide everything, so check the forecast the day before.
What happens if the crater is closed?
The park closes the trail on regional weather-alert days, and tours then substitute something else or refund part of the price.
Gray Line offers skip-the-line Herculaneum instead when it knows in advance; one small-group guest reports a wine tasting instead of the hike; the winery lunch tour gives a partial refund. Every tour here cancels free up to 24 hours before.
No volcano for your group? Pompeii and Herculaneum makes a full day of two Roman towns.
Explore Pompeii and Herculaneum with lunchDoes the guide climb with you?
It depends on the tour: on some the guide or an alpine guide walks up with you, on others you climb at your own pace and meet back at the coach.
Guests on the minivan day note they were left to their own devices with about 70 minutes. The pizza day includes an alpine guide for the crater. Neither is wrong, but know which you are booking.
What should you wear for the hike?
Closed shoes with grip, a light layer for the wind at the top, a hat and water.
Sandals slip on the gravel. Even on hot days the rim can feel chilly. See what to wear for Pompeii and Vesuvius for the full list.
Who should skip the climb?
Anyone with heart problems, serious medical conditions, back problems or limited mobility.
You can wait at the bottom while the rest of your group climbs, or choose a tour without the volcano: Pompeii only or Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Ready for the rim? Check dates for the small-group day with a crater guide.
Check dates for the small group with pizzaFrequently asked questions
How high is Vesuvius?
The summit is about 1,281 metres; the visitor path reaches the crater rim at about 1,175 metres.
Is Vesuvius still active?
Yes. It last erupted in 1944, and steam still rises from fumaroles in the crater.
Can children do the Vesuvius hike?
Many can: one family reported boys of 4 and 7 managed it easily. Under-6s enter the park free.
Is it cold at the top?
It is often cooler and windier than at sea level, so bring a light layer even in summer.
Ready to book
Choose your day
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Small-Group Pompeii & Vesuvius with Pizza
- Licensed guide in Pompeii and an alpine guide on Vesuvius
- Pompeii entry and the Vesuvius National Park ticket
- Pizza and a soft drink at a local pizzeria
Pompeii & Vesuvius Full Day from Sorrento
- Round trip from Sorrento in an air-conditioned coach or minibus
- Official guide for the whole day, with commentary on board
- Skip-the-line entry to Pompeii and the Vesuvius crater ticket
Small-Group Pompeii & Vesuvius Day Trip
A minivan group of up to 12 and a shorter day
