Etna, Sicily: Climbing, Cable Car, and all You Need to Know

For a month, we traveled to Sicily, and one of the main attractions of our trip was, of course, visiting Etna. However, with our one-year-old son Jonáš, we ultimately reconsidered climbing Europe’s highest active volcano and decided to postpone it for a more suitable time. Paradoxically, we had a stroke of luck – on the day we originally planned our trip to Etna, a massive eruption occurred, and the volcano spewed smoke and ash several kilometers high. Instead of conquering the summit, we observed the smoldering Etna from a safe distance from Taormina.

Although we didn’t end up climbing Etna, we conducted thorough research before and during our stay in Sicily. We mapped out the ascent options, available routes, and safety measures. Additionally, I gathered many valuable tips from locals and other travelers, especially regarding visiting with children . That’s why I decided to share all our findings in this detailed guide.

Summary for those who Don’t Have Time to Read the Whole Article

• There are multiple access routes to Etna – the southern (most popular with tourists) and the northern (quieter).
• For families with children, the lower parts of the volcano are ideal, especially the easy walk around the extinct Silvestri craters (1900 m), which even the youngest children can manage.
• Without an authorized guide, tourists are only allowed up to an altitude of approximately 2750 m (southern route) or 2850 m (northern). For the ascent to the summit craters (3300 m), a guide is mandatory.
• On Etna, you must expect significantly colder weather than by the sea – even in summer, it can be only 5°C with strong winds at the summit. So, bring multiple layers and sturdy shoes.
• Always monitor the volcano’s current activity before visiting – authorities may restrict access or completely close the volcano for safety reasons during increased eruptive activity.

History of Etna Volcano and its Eruptions

With its approximately 3350 meters, Etna is not only the highest mountain in Sicily but also the highest active volcano in Europe. Locals sometimes call it “Mongibello” (from the Arabic Jebel – mountain). Throughout its long history, Etna has shaped the surrounding landscape and the lives of local inhabitants. Ancient Greeks believed that the giant Typhon was imprisoned beneath the volcano, and his breath and movements caused the eruptions. According to local legend, the patron saint of Catania, St. Agatha, has the power to stop lava – locals often carry her relics during eruptions to protect the city.

Significant Eruptions in History

Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with eruptions recorded since ancient times. Among the most significant are:

• 122 BC : A powerful Plinian-type eruption covered Catania with ash and caused such damage that the Romans temporarily exempted its inhabitants from taxes.
• 1614–1624: The longest known eruption, lasting an incredible 10 years, spewed about a billion cubic meters of lava and covered an area of 21 km² on the northern slope.
• 1669: One of the most destructive eruptions in history. Lava began flowing from fissures near today’s Monti Rossi craters (only 1000 m a.s.l.) and flowed all the way to the city of Catania, where it reached the sea and created a new coastline of volcanic rock.
• 1928: A violent eruption led to the complete destruction of the village of Mascali, which was buried under lava. The lava flows also interrupted the railway encircling the base of Etna.
• 1983: The eruption lasted 131 days and destroyed the cable car, restaurants, and other infrastructure on the northeastern slope. Authorities then attempted, for the first time in the world, to divert the lava flow using dynamite explosions and barriers.
• 1991–1993: One of the longest eruptions of the 20th century (over 400 days) threatened the town of Zafferana. The flowing lava was then partially diverted by an artificially created channel.
• 2021: During 2021, over 50 eruptive episodes (paroxysms) occurred, mainly from the southeastern crater. For example, on February 16, 2021, several-centimeter-long scoria fragments fell on Catania.

It is interesting that despite Etna’s high activity, only a few dozen direct casualties are documented in historical records. Most eruptions proceed relatively slowly, allowing for timely evacuation of inhabitants.

Last Eruption: June 2025

As I mentioned in the introduction, a significant eruption occurred during our stay in Sicily, happening exactly on the day we had originally planned our ascent. According to reports from the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, the eruption began on the night of June 2, 2025, around 3:50 AM local time. . This was followed by Strombolian explosions of increasing intensity, which were strong and almost continuous.

Volcanic ash rose to an altitude of 6.5 kilometers and caused restrictions on air traffic in the area. Although the eruption attracted hundreds of tourists, many had to quickly flee to safety after some of them dangerously crossed safety zones. It was thanks to this experience that we realized how important it is to respect safety measures and monitor the volcano’s current status before a planned visit.

Climbing Etna: how to get There

Etna offers multiple ways to visit it – from easy walks around old craters to organized ascents by off-road vehicles almost to the summit. The first decision is which side of the volcano to visit.

Southern Side (Etna Sud)

The southern side is the most sought-after by tourists and the most accessible. Here you’ll find the main center, Rifugio Sapienza (1910 m a.s.l.), reachable by car, from where the Funivia dell’Etna cable car departs. The cable car takes you from 1900 m to 2500 m in about 15 minutes, thus saving you a strenuous climb.

At the upper cable car station (approx. 2500 m), you can view vast black lava fields and, in the distance, the active southeastern crater. From there, the ascent to the summit continues by special off-road buses (4×4) along an authorized path to an altitude of 2750–2900 m. The remaining section to the summit craters (approx. 3300 m) is covered on foot with a mountain guide.

Right next to the Rifugio Sapienza parking lot, there’s a short loop around the extinct Silvestri craters (from 1892), which even small children can manage. The southern station also offers complete facilities – parking, an information center, souvenir shops, bars, and restrooms.

Northern Side (Etna Nord)

The northern side is less visited, greener, and quieter. The starting point is the Piano Provenzana area (approx. 1800 m) near the village of Linguaglossa, reached via the panoramic Mareneve road through dense forests and past volcanic bombs.

The northern slopes are covered with vast pine forests and birch groves, crisscrossed by hiking and cycling trails. This area was affected by an eruption in October 2002, when lava completely destroyed the original Piano Provenzana center – solidified lava fields and buried ruins are still visible here today.

Ascending to the summit from the north is also possible: during the season, off-road vehicles (4×4 buses) operate from Piano Provenzana up to approximately 2850 m, followed by a hike to the summit craters with a guide. This option is physically demanding and not permitted for children under 10 years of age.

Important Rule – Movement Restrictions without a Guide

Without an authorized guide, tourists are only allowed up to an altitude of approximately 2750 m (southern route) or 2850 m (northern). Above this, there is a so-called yellow zone with dangerous gases and a risk of explosions, where entry is permitted only with volcanological or mountain guides. This regulation is strictly enforced by local authorities and overseen by the Etna Park rangers.

Public Transport to Etna

For travel to Etna by public transport, a daily bus line is available from Catania: departure at 8:15 AM from Piazza Giovanni XXIII, arrival around 10:15 AM at Rifugio Sapienza, return from Etna at 4:30 PM. A round-trip ticket costs approximately €6.60. Without a car, the southern side can thus be managed as a day trip from Catania.

Visiting Etna with Children – our Findings and Recommendations

We originally planned a trip to Etna with our one-year-old son Jonáš, and therefore we carefully researched what options the volcano offers for families with children. Although we ultimately postponed the ascent, I’d be happy to share all the insights we gathered. If you have a small child, most people recommended the panoramic bus, which can be booked via GetYourGuide. I’ll put the booking window below.

Is Climbing Etna Suitable for Children?

It always depends on your child; we postponed it because Jonáš simply can’t sit still for long, and even a panoramic bus probably wouldn’t have saved us. But friends went with their one-year-old and he happily looked out of the bus the whole time.

Tips for Routes with Older Children

Silvestri Craters (Southern Etna, 1900 m) – An ideal first stop for families with small children. Two small extinct craters right next to the Rifugio Sapienza parking lot can be easily walked around on a well-maintained path. The route is short (approx. 30 min), almost flat, and safe – children can enter directly inside the inactive crater and explore the reddish-brown volcanic soil. Recommended for ages 3 and up (with parental supervision). The starting point has complete facilities: parking, restaurants, restrooms, and shops, making it a comfortable family outing.

Easy Guided Walk (Northern Etna) – From Piano Provenzana, easy educational trails lead through the forest and across lava fields, suitable even for younger schoolchildren. For example, the hike to the smaller Monti Sartorius craters (formed in 1865) is approximately 4 km long with an elevation gain of only 160 m. Local guides can engage children with explanations about the “life of the volcano,” showing them volcanic rocks, pine cones from trees affected by lava, and small insects living in pumice. Recommended for children aged 5–6 and up who can manage a 2–3-hour walk.

By Cable Car and Off-Road Bus with Family – If you want to give your children the experience of high-altitude Etna without strenuous walking, consider combining the cable car and an off-road vehicle on the southern side. The Funivia + 4×4 ascent will take you up to approximately 2750 m, from where there are magnificent views of the landscape. This organized tour (the so-called “Tour 3000”) is promoted as suitable for families with children – it is not physically demanding, and guides ensure route safety. Note: children under 5 years old usually ride the cable car for free, but high altitude can cause discomfort in the youngest ones. However, for older children (approx. 7–10 years old), ascending the volcano this way is a fascinating adventure.

Etna + Swimming Combination – The program can be diversified for children with relaxation by the water. A popular combined trip is Etna in the morning Alcantara Gorge in the afternoon, where after a volcanic hike, children can frolic in the icy river among basalt rocks. Some family trips offer an easy walk around the crater in the morning, followed by a transfer to Gole dell’Alcantara, where children can wade in the shallow water in summer. The Alcantara area also has grassy areas, shade, and refreshments – ideal for family relaxation.

What to Know before a Trip to Etna with Children

• Terrain: The surface on Etna is dusty, gravelly, and uneven in places – hold smaller children’s hands to prevent them from slipping on volcanic gravel (sharp lava fragments can cause injury if they fall).
• Stroller vs. Carrier: You’ll only use a stroller in the parking lot and at the Silvestri craters; for other areas, it’s better to bring a carrier.
• Timing: Avoid midday heat – in summer, set out early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• Equipment for Children: Always pack plenty of water, headwear, sunscreen, and layered clothing – even in summer, cold winds can blow at the top of Etna.
• Current Volcano Status: Before your trip, check Etna’s current activity – during increased eruption, it’s better to postpone the ascent with children or stay only at the lower craters.

Generally, children under approximately 10 years old cannot go to the summit craters (guides do not take them there for safety reasons), but the lower parts of the volcano are safe.

Practical Information You should Know

Let’s look at some practical information, note that prices are indicative only and were valid at the time of our visit to Sicily.

Opening Hours

Etna is accessible year-round. The main tourist infrastructure (cable car, info centers) operates daily, including weekends and holidays, but the Funivia cable car’s operating hours vary by season and current weather:

• Summer Season (June–September): First ride around 8:30 AM, operates until approx. 5:30 PM.
• Off-Season (October–May): First ride around 8:45 AM, ends around 4:00 PM.

In case of unfavorable weather (strong winds, snowstorm) or volcanic activity, cable car operation and ascents may be temporarily suspended. The best time to visit Etna is often in the morning – mornings tend to be clear, while around noon, clouds often form, covering the summit.

Admission and other Fees

Entry to Etna itself (into the natural park) is not charged – movement along marked trails into permitted zones is free. However, costs include transport and any tourist services:

• Cable Car (Funivia dell’Etna): €52 for a round-trip ticket for adults, children aged 5–10 pay €30 (round-trip), children under 4 years old free.
• Cable Car + Off-Road Bus + Guide (ascent to ~2750 m): A combined package for the so-called “Etna high altitude” trip costs approximately €78 for adults / €50 for children.
• Ascent to the Summit (3300 m): Exclusively with mountain rescue/guide service. The price is around €100 per person (often part of a specialized excursion).
• Parking: At Rifugio Sapienza (Etna Sud), there is a large paid parking lot (approx. €3 per hour, €6 per day). At Etna Nord (Piano Provenzana), parking is usually free along the road.

Recommended Equipment for Climbing Etna

Although it’s hot at the base of Etna, the weather changes dramatically with increasing altitude. Prepare for strong winds, cold, and dust:

• Footwear: Sturdy ankle-high footwear (ideally trekking boots; at a minimum, good quality sports shoes with a profiled sole).
• Clothing: Warm layered clothing – e.g., a functional T-shirt, fleece sweatshirt, and waterproof windbreaker (at the summit, even in summer, the temperature can be around 5°C with strong winds).
• Protection: Long trousers (fine volcanic sand blows around), a hat or headscarf, sunglasses, and UV-filter cream.
• Water and Food: Plenty of water (at least 1.5 L per person) and a small snack – there are no stalls at the summit.
• Other: Backpack (to keep your hands free), and possibly a headlamp or flashlight if you go into a lava cave.

If needed, equipment can be rented directly on Etna: jackets or hiking boots can be rented for approximately €5 per item at the shops near the cable car.

Current Restrictions Due to Volcanic Activity

Etna is an active volcano, so always check the current status before your hike (the INGV website or local news). In case of an eruption or increased seismic activity, civil protection temporarily closes access to endangered zones. During heavy ashfall, transport may also be interrupted (in the past, Catania airport had to be closed several times).

Organized Trips to Etna

Personally, I would choose an organized trip, because you won’t get everywhere without a guide anyway, and it can be conveniently done through the GetYourGuide portal. Most popular options:

Half-Day Tour from Catania (Morning)

Price: approx. €68
Duration: ~7 hours (8:30 AM–~2:00 PM)
Program: Minibus transfer from Catania to the slopes of Etna (south) up to 2000 m. A hike of approx. 1.5 hours around the lateral craters (lava of 1792 and eruptions of 2001/2003) with a guide. A short break for refreshments, return to Catania after noon.
Suitable for: Easy, for beginners. Children aged ~6 and up (younger not recommended). Also suitable for active seniors.

Etna Morning + Sicilian Delicacies Tasting

Price: approx. €72
Duration: ~6 hours
Itinerary: Departure from Catania in the morning, transfer by minibus to Etna Sud (2000 m). Walk ~2.5 h: ascent to the edge of the Silvestri craters (1892), exploration of a lava cave with helmets and flashlights. Afterwards, a picnic – tasting of typical Sicilian snacks with local wine and water included. Return early afternoon.
Suitable for: Easy, suitable for families, couples, and seniors. No special fitness or equipment required (guide will provide a helmet for the cave). Children can join with parents (child seats available in the car).

Ascent to 3000 M (by Cable Car + Jeep)

Price: approx. 59 € + cable car and jeep ticket (45 €)
Duration: ~5 hours (3–4 h walking)
Itinerary: Meeting point at Rifugio Sapienza (southern Etna). Ascent by cable car to 2500 m, then by 4×4 off-road bus to ~2800 m. This is followed by a walk to the edge of the summit zone (~3000 m) with a volcanological guide – a view of the main craters, a look into a fresh lava field and a lava tunnel. Guide and rental of necessary equipment (helmet, trekking shoes, jacket, etc.) included.
Suitable for: More demanding high-altitude ascent – suitable for fit hikers. Not suitable for children < under 6 years old, pregnant women, or individuals with heart or respiratory problems. Recommended minimum age ~10 years (due to altitude and 3h walk).

Etna Alcantara Full-Day Tour (with Lunch)

Price: approx. 95 €
Duration: ~8 hours
Itinerary: Full-day trip with pickup (Catania/Taormina/Giardini Naxos…). Morning minibus ascent to the northern slope of Etna (~1700 m). Off-road drive along the lava field from the 2002 eruption, short walk through a beautiful birch forest to a viewpoint. Visit to an old crater in the north. Lunch included (Sicilian menu, 1 course + drink). Afternoon transfer to the Alcantara gorge with the possibility of refreshing in the water.
Suitable for: Moderately easy, suitable for all age groups (no great physical fitness required). Not suitable for people with reduced mobility (requires descending stairs into the gorge). Otherwise, families are welcome – the trip combines exploration and relaxation.

Sunset on Etna (Jeep Tour)

Price: approx. 70 €
Duration: ~5 hours (afternoon approx. 3:30 PM–8:30 PM)
Itinerary: Departure by jeep or 4×4 minibus from Catania. En route, a stop in the village of Zafferana Etnea – visit to a farm shop with tasting of local products. Ascent to the Valle del Bove area (~2000 m) with a short walk to a panoramic point. Stop at an old lava cave (with helmets). Sunset observation over Etna from a viewpoint. Return at dusk with views of Catania’s lights.
Suitable for: Very easy, a combination of driving and gentle stops. Suitable for everyone – including families with children or seniors (guides will adjust the pace). No age restrictions (children must have a car seat). Ideal for romantics and photographers.

Frequently Asked Questions