Cableway of Etna, Aerial lift on Mount Etna, Sicily, Italy
The Cableway of Etna is a modern gondola system that transports visitors up the southern side of the volcano to around 2500 meters elevation. The route passes through areas marked by dark lava fields and offers views of the mountain's dramatic slopes and volcanic formations.
The first cableway was constructed in the late 1950s and began operating in 1966, initially reaching nearly 3000 meters altitude. Following volcanic eruptions and damage to the structure, the system was rebuilt several times, with the current installation in place since 2004.
The cableway allows visitors to experience how people relate to and work on this active volcano, with guides often sharing local knowledge about living alongside nature's raw power. From above, you witness the volcanic landscape that shapes Sicilian identity and daily life in the surrounding villages.
The best time to visit is early in the day when visibility is clearest and crowds are smaller. Bring warm clothing since temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations compared to the villages below.
The cabins feature full glass construction and were completely replaced in 2023 with modern panoramic designs. This gives passengers unobstructed views of the lava fields and distant volcanic slopes from all angles during the journey.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
