Mount Vesuvius Opening Hours | When to Visit, Duration

Timings

Mount Vesuvius

January, February, November, December: 9am to 3pm

March, October: 9am to 4pm

April, May, June, September: 9am to 5 pm

July, August: 9am to 6pm

Jan - Mar

Apr - Jun

Jul - Sep

Oct - Dec

Jan 1 TO Feb 28 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Feb 28)	TIMINGS
Monday	9:00am–3:00pm
Tuesday	9:00am–3:00pm
Wednesday	9:00am–3:00pm
Thursday	9:00am–3:00pm
Friday	9:00am–3:00pm
Saturday	9:00am–3:00pm
Sunday	9:00am–3:00pm

Mar 1 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Mar 1 TO Mar 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	9:00am–4:00pm
Tuesday	9:00am–4:00pm
Wednesday	9:00am–4:00pm
Thursday	9:00am–4:00pm
Friday	9:00am–4:00pm
Saturday	9:00am–4:00pm
Sunday	9:00am–4:00pm

The volcano can also be closed to visitors during periods of high volcanic activity or bad weather.

Best time to visit the Mount Vesuvius

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays at Mount Vesuvius offer a more relaxed and peaceful experience. With fewer tourists around, you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the volcanic landscape without the hustle and bustle of busy weekends. The atmosphere is quieter, and you can explore the area with ease, encountering shorter queues and less competition for parking spaces.
Weekends at Mount Vesuvius attract more local and domestic tourists, resulting in a livelier atmosphere. You may also have the opportunity to experience cultural events or activities that are occasionally organized near the volcano during weekends, adding an extra dimension to your visit.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Peak season vs Low season

During the high season (April to September), the weather is generally pleasant and warmer, offering excellent visibility of the surroundings and the bay of Naples. However, this period also comes with larger crowds and longer queues, as it's the peak time for tourists. Accommodation and travel costs tend to be higher due to the increased demand.
On the other hand, the low season (October to March) provides a quieter and more relaxed visit. With fewer crowds during the low season, you'll have more space and tranquility to appreciate the natural beauty of Mount Vesuvius. Moreover, accommodation and travel costs are typically lower during this time, making it a budget-friendly option.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Peak Season

How long do you need to tour and hike Mount Vesuvius?

The duration of a tour and hike at Mount Vesuvius can vary depending on several factors, including your level of physical fitness, the route you choose, and the time you spend exploring the area. On average, a visit to Mount Vesuvius can take around 2 to 3 hours. The hike from the parking area to the crater of Mount Vesuvius alone takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Once you reach the crater, you can spend as much time as you need exploring and taking in the panoramic views and the descent from the crater back to the parking area usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Frequently asked questions about Mount Vesuvius opening hours

Is Mount Vesuvius open all year round?

Mount Vesuvius is open to visitors all year round, except for some periods when the volcano is closed due to high volcanic activity or bad weather.

Can I visit Mount Vesuvius during the winter months?

While Mount Vesuvius is open all year round, your visit during winter months can be affected by factors like visibility and fogging.

Are there any days when Mount Vesuvius is closed?

Mount Vesuvius is rarely closed, but there may be some days when the volcano is closed due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Can I visit Mount Vesuvius at night?

No, Mount Vesuvius is not open to visitors at night. The volcano is only open during daylight hours, usually from 9am topm.

Is Mount Vesuvius open on public holidays?

Yes, Mount Vesuvius remains open on public holidays for visitors.

Are there any restrictions on visiting Mount Vesuvius?

Yes, there are some restrictions on visiting Mount Vesuvius. It's important to follow all safety guidelines while on the volcano.

What time of day is best to visit Mount Vesuvius to avoid crowds?

To avoid crowds, it is best to visit Mount Vesuvius early in the morning when it opens. Arriving shortly after the opening time of 9am allows you to enjoy a quieter experience before the peak of visitor traffic arrives.

Are there any seasonal changes in the opening times for Mount Vesuvius?

Yes, the opening times for Mount Vesuvius can vary with the seasons. In the peak summer months, the site might extend its hours, while during the winter, the hours might be shorter. Always check for the latest seasonal schedules before planning your visit.