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How to Get to Mount Vesuvius from Naples, Sorrento, and Pompeii

Updated: September 19, 2023
 By Justin

If you’re interested in visiting Mount Vesuvius, this post will provide details about how to get there from Naples, Sorrento, and Pompeii.

We also have a post detailing how to get from Rome to Pompeii, which you can use to learn about the first leg of the journey from the eternal city.


How to Get to Vesuvius From Naples

To reach Mount Vesuvius from Naples by car, start at Piazza Garibaldi in central Naples and head east on the A3 highway.

You should take the Ercolano Scavi exit to get to the base of the active volcano.

Next, you must adhere to the provided guidance leading to Salerno.

You can follow the simple instructions to the parking area close to the crater entrance from there.

Once you've parked, you can explore a combination of sights, including Vesuvius National Park and the path that guides you to the crater rim.

Anticipate the voyage to encompass a duration close to a half hour.

By Train

From Naples, Mount Vesuvius is easily accessible via the Circumvesuviana train.

Take a train headed for Sorrento from Naples Central Station (Piazza Garibaldi), get off at the Ercolano Scavi station, and then travel on. 

You can travel to the Mount Vesuvius crater from this station on the shuttle bus known as the Vesuvio Express.

The Amalfi Coast, Herculaneum, and the ruins of Pompeii are just a few of the nearby attractions that tourists can explore.

The shuttle bus is included in the approximately 20 EUR roundtrip price.

Another option is to take the train to Pompeii (Villa dei Misteri station) and then a tour to Mount Vesuvius.

Pompeii and the Vesuvius National Park are popular day trip destinations that offer the chance to see Pompeii's historic ruins and the crater's breathtaking height.

Purchase train tickets from Naples to Mount Vesuvius.

By Bus

The EAV bus, which departs from Piazza Garibaldi in Naples and travels to Mount Vesuvius, is a popular mode of public transportation.

The trip takes you to the Vesuvius National Park entrance and lets you view the breathtaking Southern Italian scenery.

Approximately EUR 15 is required for the roundtrip fare.

There are shuttle bus services from famous locations like Pompeii and Torre del Greco for visitors who also want to see other historical sites in the area.

To get the whole experience of historical eruptions and modern wonders, many tourists combine a bus trip to Vesuvius with a trip to the ruins of Pompeii or Herculaneum.

Purchase bus tickets from Naples to Mount Vesuvius.

By Taxi/Uber

Direct transportation to Mount Vesuvius from Naples is easily arranged with a taxi or Uber.

The journey will take you by car, including stops at well-known gift shops, Pompeii, or even the Herculaneum, starting from Central Station or Piazza Garibaldi.

A standard one-direction cost typically ranges from 40 to 50 Euros.

The freedom to visit nearby attractions like Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, or the Pompeii ruins is another benefit of using an Uber or taxi.

The region offers a wide range of experiences, from the crater's elevation above sea level to the historical significance of nearby sites.


How to Get to Vesuvius From Sorrento

Driving from Sorrento to Mount Vesuvius allows you to enjoy the scenic views of Southern Italy.

Start east on the SS145 highway, then merge onto the A3 towards Naples. Take the Herculaneum exit and follow the signs to Vesuvius.

Along the way, you may encounter souvenir shops offering local crafts.

Provisions for vehicle storage are located adjacent to the entryway; from this point, one may ascend the volcanic ridge on foot, climbing in elevation.

Prepare for a journey approximately 60 minutes in length.

By Train

Taking the train from Sorrento to Vesuvius begins at Sorrento's train station.

Board the Circumvesuviana train to Naples and change at Pompei for a guided tour or a connecting bus to Vesuvius.

These tours often include stops at attractions such as the ruins of Pompeii and provide essential facilities like toilets. 

Round trip costs are approximately EUR 25-30, including the train and tour.

n the off-peak months like November, you may find fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to enjoy the historical and natural beauty of the area.

Purchase train tickets from Sorrento to Mount Vesuvius.

Mount Vesuvius as seen from the coast of Sorrento. Image source: Pixabay user Marek.
Mount Vesuvius as seen from the coast of Sorrento. Image source: Pixabay user Marek.

By Bus

Numerous bus companies run round-trip routes from Sorrento to Mount Vesuvius.

These buses leave from the main terminal in Sorrento and travel through the breathtaking Southern Italian countryside, stopping at locations like the Herculaneum.

Tickets are around EUR 20–25 for a roundtrip service.

No matter the season, the bus ride lets you take in the stunning views and offers comforts like restrooms along the way.

Purchase bus tickets from Sorrento to Mount Vesuvius.


By Taxi/Uber

From Sorrento to Vesuvius, a taxi or Uber may be an excellent choice for a more personalized trip.

An average one-way trip costs between 60 and 70 euros and gives travelers the freedom to explore nearby attractions. 

You can make pit stops at gift shops along the way, take in the elevation of the scenery, or visit historical sites.

Without having to change trains or buses, the taxi or Uber ride also offers the benefit of direct transportation. 

Even though it might cost more, it provides comfort and convenience, especially for those traveling during less busy months like January.


How to Get to Vesuvius From Pompeii

Driving to Mount Vesuvius from Pompeii is straightforward if you have a car. Start by getting on the SS145 road from Pompeii.

Follow the road to the A3 highway towards Naples. Take exit Ercolano toward Via Vesuvio, and follow signs to Mount Vesuvius. 

The total drive is around 20 minutes.

It's possible to leave your vehicle in a complimentary parking area, subsequently proceeding on foot toward the volcano. 


By Train

There's no direct train from Pompeii to Vesuvius, but you can take a bus there.

Go to the Pompeii Scavi train station if you're close to the Pompeii ruins.

Afterward, you can board a bus to facilitate your conveyance to the volcanic site.

If you want to simplify it, there are guided tours from Pompeii, including the train and bus.

Just ask at the train station or look online. They'll help you get to Vesuvius without any fuss.

The view of Mount Vesuvius from Pompeii. Image source: Pixabay user Marek.
The view of Mount Vesuvius from Pompeii. Image source: Pixabay user Marek.

By Bus

The bus ride from Pompeii to Vesuvius is easy and cheap.

Bus departures occur from the location known as the Pompeii Scavi railway terminal.

An option exists to purchase a ticket covering both legs of the journey, typically priced around 10 Euros.

The bus will drop you off at the parking area, and from there, you can walk up to the volcano.

Remember to bring water and a hat if you visit during the summer. The bus ride is only about 30 minutes.


By Taxi/Uber

You can take a taxi or Uber if you want to go straight from Pompeii to Vesuvius.

Just tell the driver you want to go to Vesuvius. It's a short ride, around 20 minutes, and it might cost about EUR 25-30 one way.

A taxi or Uber is excellent if you want to go immediately and not wait for a bus.

The driver will take you to the parking area, and you can walk up to the volcano from there.

That said, it's quite a bit more money to pay just to save 10 minutes!


FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

The crater of Mount Vesuvius. Image source: Pixabay user falco.
The crater of Mount Vesuvius. Image source: Pixabay user falco.

Can you visit Mt Vesuvius without a tour?

Vesuvius welcomes you without needing a tour.

Drive yourself, hail a cab, or brave public transport to visit Mt Vesuvius.

Is it worth it to go to Mount Vesuvius?

It's a resounding yes.

From the stunning landscapes to the deep geological intrigue and historical echoes, Vesuvius isn't just a destination; it's an experience.

What is the best train station for Vesuvius?

Looking for the gateway to Vesuvius by train? The Ercolano Scavi station is your ticket.

It's the train stop closest to Vesuvius's grandeur, with buses ready to whisk you away to the peak.

Another view of Mt. Vesuvius from the Pompeii ruins. Image source: Pixabay user Michael Swanson.
Another view of Mt. Vesuvius from the Pompeii ruins. Image source: Pixabay user Michael Swanson.

How do I get to Mount Vesuvius by train?

All aboard the Circumvesuviana to Ercolano Scavi station, a shuttle bus or guided expedition will lead you to the mountain's majestic embrace.

What train station is Mount Vesuvius?

Mount Vesuvius doesn't have its station, but Ercolano Scavi is the one to know.

It's not just a train stop; it's the beginning of a voyage to one of Italy's most iconic landmarks.

About The Author

Justin

Justin is a travel content writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the field. He graduated from Portland State University in 2012. He has lived in the Pacific Northwest his whole life and knows the American West Coast very well. Read More...
Updated: September 19th, 2023
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