The cone of Stromboli rises 924 metres almost straight out of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and it has been erupting on a near-continuous schedule for at least 2,000 years. The summit craters fire small bursts of lava and rock every 10 to 30 minutes — often more dramatic at dusk, when the molten material glows against the dark sky.
The ascent on foot used to go to the rim, but after a significant 2019 eruption the upper trail is restricted; guided groups now climb only to 400 metres at the Punta dei Corvi viewpoint. The trip is still worthwhile: you climb at sunset along switchbacks of black volcanic scree, then sit on the ridge and watch the eruptions in real time. Independent climbing above 290 metres is illegal. Take a head torch, warm layers, and a helmet (provided by guides).