1. The Great Crater

The massive 300-meter-deep main crater offers a surreal landscape of volcanic rock formations and occasional steam vents with panoramic views of the entire Bay of Naples. Insider Tip: Visit early morning before 9 AM when winds are typically calmer, often dispersing the sulfurous gases and providing clearer views into the crater’s depths.

2. Valle dell’Inferno

This dramatic “Valley of Hell” between the Monte Somma ridge and the main cone showcases the remnants of the ancient caldera formed during the 79 AD eruption. Insider Tip: The northern section has fascinating black obsidian fragments rarely found elsewhere on the mountain.

3. Vesuvius Observatory

The world’s oldest volcanological observatory continuously monitors the mountain’s activity while housing an impressive collection of historical monitoring equipment and eruption artifacts. Insider Tip: Ask specifically to see the original seismographs from the 1944 eruption, which aren’t part of the regular tour but staff will often show upon request.

4. Atrio del Cavallo

This horseshoe-shaped valley contains remarkable lava formations and rare pioneer plants adapting to the harsh volcanic environment. Insider Tip: Look for the “Vesuvius broom” plant with yellow flowers that’s unique to the mountain and among the first to recolonize after eruptions.

5. Capannelle Refuge

This historic mountain shelter offers a glimpse into mountaineering history with its rustic stone architecture and vintage photographs of past expeditions. Insider Tip: The refuge keeper usually has a stash of local Lacryma Christi wine that isn’t on the menu but is available to those who ask nicely.

6. Cognoli di Levante

This easternmost peak provides unobstructed views toward Pompeii and shows clearly visible layers of different eruptions in the exposed cliff face. Insider Tip: The small path beyond the main viewpoint leads to a natural rock formation that perfectly frames Pompeii in the distance, creating an iconic photograph.

7. Monte Somma Ridge

The ancient caldera rim predates the catastrophic eruption of 79 AD and features dramatically different vegetation than the main cone, including oak forests and rich biodiversity. Insider Tip: The north-facing slopes harbor wild orchids in spring that most visitors miss by sticking to the main trail.

8. Lava Flow of 1944

The solidified lava river from Vesuvius’s last major eruption cuts a dramatic black path down the mountain’s western flank, showcasing different flow patterns and cooling formations. Insider Tip: Examine the telephone poles partially embedded in the lava – they’re original from 1944 and show exactly how high the molten flow reached.

9. Vesuvius Pine Forest

The iconic Italian stone pines create a stunning contrast against the volcanic landscape while demonstrating nature’s resilience in this harsh environment. Insider Tip: The section near Ercolano trail entrance has unusually twisted pine trunks formed by seeking sunlight around lava obstacles, creating natural sculptures unlike anywhere else on the mountain.

10. Agricultural Terraces

The fertile volcanic soil supports traditional farming including the famous Vesuvius cherry tomatoes, apricots and the grapes used for Lacryma Christi wine. Insider Tip: Visit during October’s harvest when some family vineyards along the lower slopes invite passing hikers to sample freshly pressed grape must, a tradition dating back generations.