Vesuvius Under the Stars 2026: Evening excursions in the National Park throughout August

When the sun sets behind the Gulf of Naples and the sky above the volcano lights up with stars, the Vesuvio It transforms into a natural stage. It's the magic of Vesuvius Under the Stars, the series of evening excursions organised by Vesuvius Nature to Explore which will accompany visitors along the paths of the Vesuvius National Park, from sunset until night.

Now in its XIII editionThe initiative is organized with the authorization of the Vesuvius National Park and the patronage of the Municipalities of Ercolano and Trecase. Each evening is a slow journey through lava flows, Mediterranean scrub, and open sea views, led by qualified environmental guides who share the local nature, geology, and culture, culminating in a reading of the constellations and an aperitif under the stars.

The experience: a walk from dusk to dusk

The appointment is set approximately at 19:00, starting by 19:30 pm (the time may vary between 18:30 pm and 19:30 pm depending on the period and the time of sunset). The walk lasts about two and a half hours, with panoramic stops, observation of the sky and stories dedicated to the volcano, and ends around 22:30 with a little one aperitif outdoors based on wine from the best Vesuvius wineries and local Campania products.

The event is plastic free and takes place in full respect of the Park's biodiversity: each participant is invited to bring a personal glass with them and to take their waste back down to the valley.

The dates of August 2026

The excursions take place every day of the month of August and continue during the first week of September, then on weekends in September and October. The calendar is enriched with some special nights:

• From the 7 23 August 2026: evenings dedicated to the Night of San Lorenzo, Ferragosto, and the new moon, with insights into the sky, cultural stories, and special itineraries;
• From the 28 31 August 2026: the Full Moon special, four consecutive evenings to walk under the full light of the satellite;
• First week of September: daily excursions;
• September and October 2026: weekend appointments.

The available dates, the planned route and the remaining places must be checked on official calendar at the time of booking.

The two routes: 600m and 1000m

Path 600

The most accessible route starts from Vesuvius Nature to Explore headquarters, in Contrada Osservatorio 55 in ErcolanoIt traverses the western slope of the park amidst Mediterranean vegetation, lava flows, and views of the Gulf of Naples. It's also recommended for families with children accustomed to walking. Parking at the starting point is private and free.

Path 1000

The highest altitude route starts from Imbò Refuge (Piazzale Quota 1000) and winds through ancient lava flows, secondary craters, and more rugged, volcanic landscapes. There are two variants: the panoramic trail Side Walk, simpler and recommended for ages 8 and up, and the valley of Hell, of medium difficulty and generally suitable for ages 12 and up.

How much

• Adults: 20,90 €
• Boys from 7 to 17 years: 10,90 €
• Children under 7 years old: free entry
• Special evenings (adults): 25,90 €
• Special evenings (kids 7-17 years old): 10,90 €

Although children under 7 enter for free, the easy routes are generally recommended for ages 7 and up. Before participating with younger children, it's advisable to contact customer service.

How to get there and what to bring

The starting points they are not served by public transport in the eveningVesuvius: You must reach Vesuvius by your own vehicle or arrange private transportation. For the 1000-meter-high route, pre-booked participants can bypass the restricted access zone at 800 meters above sea level by displaying the permit provided by the organizers on their dashboard and parking in authorized areas. Cell phone reception is poor along the Vesuvius road; it is advisable to set your GPS navigation system before leaving town.

For the evening you need trekking shoes or closed shoes with shaped soles, sweatshirt or windbreaker, comfortable pants (preferably long), backpack instead of shoulder bag, water and a snack. Strollers are not allowed on the trails and pets are not allowed to participate, as per Park regulations.

Vesuvius Under the Stars 2026: useful information

• LocationVesuvius National Park — departure from Contrada Osservatorio 55, Ercolano (Route 600) or from Rifugio Imbò, altitude 1000 (Route 1000)
• DateEvery day in August 2026 and the first week of September; weekends in September and October. Special nights from August 7 to 23 and from August 28 to 31.
• Clockwise: meeting at 19:00 pm, departure by 19:30 pm, conclusion around 22:30 pm
• EntranceAdults: €20,90; children 7-17 years: €10,90; children under 7 years: free; special evenings: €25,90 (adults)
• Reservation request : Mandatory on the official website vesuviosottolestelle.it; customer service 329 134 0500 (phone and WhatsApp, 10:00 am - 19:00 pm)

FAQ

How long does the evening excursion last?

The walk lasts about two and a half hours: it starts around 19:00 PM (or 18:30 PM depending on the season) and ends around 22:30 PM with an outdoor aperitif.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes: Route 600 is also recommended for families with children accustomed to walking. The easy trails are recommended for ages 7 and up, and the Valle dell'Inferno for ages 12 and up. Children under 7 are free, but strollers are not permitted on the trails.

How do I book?

Reservations are required and can be made on the official website vesuviosottolestelle.it, choosing the date and route. If you have any questions, please contact customer service at 329 134 0500.

Can pets participate?

No: animals are not allowed on any trail, as per Vesuvius National Park regulations.