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Frequently active and the largest volcano in Europe, Etna is an easily accessible and rewarding volcano to visit. Its eruptions tend to be Strombolian explosions but often also produce long lava flows. It is not easy to predict what Etna is going to do, and how easy summit access will be. There are tours that take visitors to places considered safe, but where those are depends on the level of activity. A rough road goes all the way to the summit, but can be accessed only by Etna guides. It is possible to walk up from the parking lot, though it will take several hours to reach the summit. You can spend weeks hiking all over the volcano and visiting the many pleasant towns dotted on its flanks. Best times to visit are Spring and Fall, though summer is pleasant on the upper slopes. If you visit in winter, be aware that the upper slopes will be snow-covered. You can find lodgings in the town of Nicolosi, or several others on the volcano's flanks, or stay in Catania or Taormina. Don't miss the ruins of the Greek theatre in Taormina.

Written by  Rosaly Lopes.

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