Nat Geo Day Tour: Gragnano, the Epicenter of Dried Pasta Production

Sorrento Coast boat tour with prosecco tasting

Discover the most enchanting places on the Sorrento Coast by boat. Swim in crystal clear waters and toast your experience with a glass of prosecco.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Gragnano, the Epicenter of Dried Pasta Production

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Gragnano, the epicenter of dried pasta production. The tour starts with a picturesque bus ride along the Sorrentine Coast, offering panoramic views. Throughout the day, your National Geographic-trained guide will provide intriguing insights into Campanian culture. Your first destination is the idyllic Valley of the Mills, nestled between the towns of Sorrento, Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Here, you'll have the rare privilege of exploring the historical site, together with a local historian and retired miller who is dedicated to this important restoration project. He will explain in detail the ingenious engineering that powered the mills, a captivating revelation exclusively reserved for National Geographic travelers. As you take a leisurely stroll through this lush landscape, you can connect with the natural beauty that has inspired generations. The next stop is a renowned pasta factory with deep-rooted traditions. Prepare to be amazed by the creativity of chief pasta maker, Antonino Moccia, and the factory's 140 different shapes of pasta, some of which are patented. Accompanied by the factory's owner, you'll embark on a tour of the museum, hearing intimate stories that have shaped this industry over the centuries. Before the tour ends, you will don protective garments and go backstage to the production area to see the pasta-making process step by step, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision that goes into crafting each piece of pasta. You'll discover the meticulous packaging techniques that ensure the final product reaches homes around the world in pristine condition.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Roman Life Uncovered - Villas of Oplontis & Pompeii

Begin with a short drive to the foothills of Mt. Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient city preserved by volcanic eruption. Wander down cobblestone streets to the Forum, once the hub of Roman life. Follow ancient paths to impressive villas and grand spaces like the House of the Faun with its rich mosaics. Sit in the arena of the theater and study the colossal columns of the Basilica. You'll also visit areas of everyday life like the baths and taverns. You will see the exterior of the opulent Casa della Regina Carolina, one of the ancient city's largest villas located in an elite neighborhood near the Forum. Learn insights into the ongoing research started by National Geographic Explorer Caitlin Ellis Barret as you hear about the villa and the daily domestic activities of its wealthy inhabitants. After a light lunch, continue your journey to the port of Torre Annunziata, where you'll descend below street level to ancient Oplontis. As a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area and its two sprawling villas boast some of the best-preserved wall paintings of the Roman period. Your archeologist guide will offer historical, cultural and architectural context as you take in Oplontis' wonders. Once inhabited by the Roman elite, marvel at Pompeiian-style frescoes and mosaics, finished with deep azures, oranges, and sunny golds. The intricate use of colour and shading gives these paintings a three-dimensional feel, adding a lifelike quality to these ancient scenes.

Herculaneum half-day tour

Like nearby Pompeii, ancient Herculaneum suffered a similar fate at the hands of Vesuvius erupting in 79AD. Fortunately, archaeologists have managed to excavate parts of the city, and this half-day tour will show you what they've managed to unearth so far.

Mount Vesuvius hiking tour with dinner from Sorrento

Climb up to Mount Vesuvius' crater on this afternoon hiking tour. Hop aboard a coach in Sorrento for the scenic journey to Piazzale di Quota 1000, the starting point of this trail. Gear up for your trek to the top – you'll want to bring your camera for this one – where you can see over the Bay of Naples and even spot islands like Ischia and Capri on a clear day. At the summit, take in the crater views before heading back down. Then, there's a tasty dinner at a local restaurant, featuring regional dishes and wine.

Full-day guided boat tour of Punta Campanella

Spend a day at sea on this full-day boat tour of the Punta Campanella marine reserve park. Begin your journey by gliding along Sorrento's coast, setting sail from the Cape of Sorrento towards Positano. As you travel, you'll follow the ancient routes once navigated by Greek and Roman merchants and see where, according to Greek mythology, Ulysses was enchanted by sirens. Your tour will take you through Massa Lubrense, showcasing the Sorrentine Peninsula's coastlines and vistas of the gulfs of Naples and Salerno.

Sorrento Experience Museum Exhibition Admission Tickets

Dive into Sorrento's past from Vesuvius' eruption to WWII. Uncover legends, tales and narratives in this immersive exhibition.

Pompeii and Herculaneum Small Group Tour from Sorrento

Immerse yourself in the profound depths of Italy's Roman past with a guided exploration of Pompeii and Herculaneum, two storied UNESCO World Heritage Sites.