Mt. Vesuvius is the volcano responsible for covering the city of Pompeii with a blanket of ash in 79 A.D, preserving it until it’s rediscovery in the 1700s. After hiking Arenal in Costa Rica, my fascination with volcanoes began and so while visiting Pompeii, I added Mt. Vesuvius to the list of volcanoes I’ve conquered.
TRANSPORTATION
- Private Tour (60€ and up, includes transportation) these can easily be found online.
- Shuttle From Herculaneum: Vesuvio Express (10.00€ round-trip) tickets can be purchased in advance from their website.
- Public Bus From Pompeii: EAV public bus (5.50€ round-trip)
- Entrance Ticket to Mount Vesuvius (10€) tickets can be purchased upon arrival.
I visited Vesuvius in the morning before spending the day in Pompeii which meant that I was able to take the EAV public bus located directly across the street from the Pompei Villa dei Misteri train station (Pompeii is also a short walk from this station).
* The EAV public bus (cheapest option) to Vesuvius is only available from Pompeii and not Herculaneum. If you want to visit Vesuvius from Herculaneum, you’ll have to book the Vesuvio Express or a private tour that includes transportation. If you’re not familiar with Pompeii or Herculaneum, be sure to read this post comparing both archeology sites.
Taking the EAV bus (50 minutes) is inexpensive and easy. Round-trip tickets can be purchased on board and since it’s a public bus, it runs on a schedule which means you have the option to leave Mt. Vesuvius when you choose. It also drops you off and picks you up directly in front of the entrance.
Vesuvio Express (20 minutes) While the transportation time is shorter, this company gives you a predetermined amount of time at the volcano so be aware if you are someone who enjoys exploring at your own pace.
SHOULD YOU BOOK A TOUR?
Transportation to and from Mt. Vesuvius is extremely easy and honestly, there isn’t much to see to justify a tour unless of course Mt. Vesuvius is included in a larger guided tour you’ve purchased.
If you would like to book a guided tour, I’ve included some options below, otherwise, take advantage of the free 10-minute tour at the top of the crater, it’s included with your ticket and is led by a volcanology guide. You will see them walking around holding a binder, be sure to ask if you can join a group, or if you’re solo as I was, ask if they have a few moments to give you a brief private overview of the volcano and its history.
IS IT WORTH VISITING?
I’ve heard the views from the top are spectacular, although on the day I visited, I mostly walked through clouds which was pretty cool in its own way. Personally, hiking Mount Vesuvius is one of those experiences where I enjoyed it and can check it off of my bucket list but doing it once is sufficient. I suggest checking out the reviews and if it sounds exciting to you, go for it.
