Mountains of Italy​
a collection of the most beautiful peaks from across the country
Photo: Monte Bianco/Mont Blanc, Valle d'Aosta
Mountains of Italy
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Latest page update: 23 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The two most famous Mountains of Italy are the volcanoes of Mount Vesuvius just outside Naples and Mount Etna in Sicily.
Among the most distinctive of the Alpine mountains of the north are the peaks of the Matterhorn and Monte Bianco which sits astride the French border in north-western Italy. Both of these mountains enjoy imperious views over famous ski resorts. In the central Italian regions of Tuscany and Umbria, Monte Amiata and Mount Subasio can be seen for miles around while the two southern islands of Ischia and Capri contribute to the collection with Mount Epomeo and Mount Solaro. |
Mount Etna, Sicily
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Mount Vesuvius
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Mount Vesuvius is an iconic volcano located near Naples, overlooking the Bay of Naples. It is best known for its catastrophic eruption in AD 79, which buried the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, preserving them as archaeological treasures.
Standing at approximately 1,281 meters, Vesuvius is one of Europe’s most famous active volcanoes, with its last major eruption occurring in 1944. Visitors can hike to the crater’s rim to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Gulf of Naples. The volcano’s fertile slopes are home to vineyards producing the renowned Lacryma Christi wine. Vesuvius remains a symbol of natural power and historical significance. |
Mount Vesuvius, Naples
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Mount Etna
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Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, rises majestically on the eastern coast of Sicily, near the cities of Catania and Taormina. Towering at approximately 3,357 metres, its constantly changing height is shaped by frequent eruptions.
Etna is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features dramatic landscapes, including craters, lava fields, and fertile slopes that support vineyards and orchards. Historically significant, it has been revered since ancient times, with myths linking it to Vulcan, the Roman god of fire. Popular points of interest include the Silvestri Craters, the cable car to summit areas, and trekking trails. . |
Mount Etna, Sicily
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Matterhorn
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The Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps, straddles the border between Switzerland and Italy near the towns of Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia. Standing at 4,478 meters, its striking pyramidal shape dominates the surrounding landscape, making it a magnet for climbers and photographers.
First successfully summited in 1865, the Matterhorn remains a symbol of alpine mountaineering and a challenge for adventurers. Its slopes feature glacial fields, rugged ridges, and awe-inspiring views. On the Italian side, the Matterhorn is known as Monte Cervino. |
Matterhorn, Valle d'Aosta
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Monte Bianco
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Monte Bianco, or Mont Blanc, is the highest peak in the Alps and Western Europe, standing at 4,808 metres. Located on the border between Italy and France, its Italian side lies in the Valle d’Aosta.
Renowned for its stunning glaciers, rugged cliffs, and snow-capped peaks, Monte Bianco is a haven for mountaineers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. The iconic Skyway Monte Bianco cable car offers breathtaking views of the massif. Historically, the mountain has symbolized exploration and adventure, with the first recorded ascent in 1786 marking the birth of modern mountaineering. |
Monte Bianco, Valle d'Aosta
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Mount Subasio
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Mount Subasio is a prominent mountain in the Umbria region of central Italy, located near the town of Assisi. Part of the Apennine range, it rises to 1,290 metres and is known for its lush forests, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
The mountain holds significant historical and spiritual importance, particularly for St. Francis of Assisi, who often retreated to its slopes for contemplation. The area is part of the Monte Subasio Regional Park, offering numerous hiking trails, ancient monasteries, and scenic landscapes. Mount Subasio remains a serene destination for nature lovers, pilgrims, and those seeking to explore the natural beauty of Umbria. |
Mount Subasio, Umbria
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Monte Amiata
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Monte Amiata is a prominent extinct volcano located in the Tuscany region of central Italy. Rising to 1,738 metres, it is the highest peak in southern Tuscany and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and medieval towns.
The mountain is surrounded by lush woods of beech and chestnut trees, making it a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and nature lovers. Historically, Monte Amiata has been a significant site since ancient times, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements in the area. It was once a centre for mining, particularly for mercury, which played a vital role in the region's economy until the 20th century. |
Monte Amiata, Tuscany
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Mount Epomeo
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Mount Epomeo is the highest peak on the island of Ischia, located in the Bay of Naples.
Rising 789 metres above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. The mountain is of volcanic origin, with its last eruption occurring around 4,500 years ago. The summit is easily accessible via hiking trails, and visitors can enjoy lush vegetation and scenic landscapes along the way. At the top, there is a chapel and a stone quarry, which has been historically significant. |
Mount Epomeo, Ischia
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Mount Solaro
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Mount Solaro is the highest point on the island of Capri, rising 589 metres above sea level. Located in the western part of the island, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast, and the neighboring island of Ischia.
The summit can be reached by a scenic chairlift or a challenging hike through lush Mediterranean vegetation. The chairlift can be taken from close to the entrance of the historic Villa San Michele, one of the key sights in the Anacapri area. At the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas and explore the small chapel dedicated to Saint Michael. |
Mount Solaro, Capri
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