Vesuvio National Park, Ottaviano

The only active volcano on the European mainland, Vesuvio National Park is best known for its dramatic eruption in 79 CE, which led to the destruction of ancient cities Herculaneum and Pompeii. The volcano is now the centerpiece of a national park, established in 1995 to prevent further development in the area. The summit of the volcano is open to visitors, with a network of well-maintained paths around the mountain. An access road can get you to about 200 m (660 ft) from the summit (measured vertically), but after that access is on foot only. A spiral walkway leads up the final section of the climb, from the road to the rim of the crater. On a sunny day, you'll have sweeping views of the surrounding area, stretching all the way to the Bay of Naples. Work out when and for how long to visit Vesuvio National Park and other Ottaviano attractions using our handy Ottaviano trip itinerary website.