Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we hear most, by topic. If yours is not here, message us on WhatsApp.
Tickets
Is the crater ticket included?
Yes with “Shuttle + Gran Cono entry”: the ticket is in the time slot you choose. With “Shuttle only” you buy the ticket separately, and at peak times it sells out.
Can I buy the Gran Cono ticket at the entrance?
No: the ticket is sold online only, with a time slot, and there is no signal near the entrance. Buy it before you go up, or choose “Shuttle + Gran Cono entry”.
What if I arrive late for my slot?
You can enter within a window around your slot time: TODO_TOLLERANZA. If you are running late, message us on WhatsApp.
Shuttle
Where does the shuttle leave from?
From our office in Piazzale Stazione, Ercolano, TODO_DISTANZA m from the exit of the Ercolano Scavi Circumvesuviana station.
What time does the shuttle run?
Runs are from 9:00 to 17:00 in summer and from 9:30 to 14:00 in winter (to be confirmed; season dates: TODO_STAGIONI). Frequency: TODO_FREQUENZA.
How long does the trip take?
About 30 minutes by shuttle to the 1,000 m car park, then about 20 minutes on foot to the crater rim. With the shuttle you get about 2 hours in the Park.
Can I change the date or cancel?
You can change the date, subject to availability: message us on WhatsApp or by email. Cancellation with a refund is not offered, except when the Park closes the Gran Cono.
Weather and closures
What if the Gran Cono closes, for wind or anything else?
The Gran Cono is run by the Vesuvius National Park, a public body separate from Vesuvio Express. If the Park announces the closure in advance, we refund the whole service or move it to another date. If it closes after the tour has already set off, we refund the Park entrance ticket.
I bought my ticket on the Park’s website: who refunds it?
The Park: if it closes, it refunds tickets bought on its website automatically, within 30 days.
Getting ready
What shoes do I need?
Closed shoes with a good grip: sturdy trainers or hiking boots. The trail is volcanic gravel; flip-flops, sandals and heels are not allowed.
What should I bring?
In summer, water (at least 1.5 litres each), a hat and sunscreen; in winter, layers and a windproof jacket. At the top, about 1,281 metres up, it is cooler and windier than in town.
Who should avoid the climb?
The climb is not recommended during pregnancy, for people with heart conditions or reduced mobility, or with a pushchair. Official Park guidance: TODO_AVVERTENZE.
Services and contact
Can I leave my luggage?
Yes, there is luggage storage at the Ercolano Scavi office: € TODO_PREZZO per item.
Do you arrange trips for groups, agencies and hotels?
Yes: private group transfers, private taxi from anywhere around the Gulf of Naples and departures from Naples. Ask for a quote on the “Groups, agencies and hotels” page.
How do I contact you?
On WhatsApp, by phone or by email: you will find numbers and address on the Contact page.
Didn’t find your answer?
Message us: we answer on WhatsApp and by phone.