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Italy

The Magic & Mythology of the Amalfi Coast With Your Grandchild

Program No. 24549RJ
Immerse yourself in the ancient history and traditions of Sorrento, all while making lasting memories with your grandchild.

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Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
9 days
8 nights
What's Included
14 meals ( 7B, 3L, 4D )
4 expert-led lectures
10 expert-led field trips
2 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m. Transfer from Naples Airport to hotel is 38 miles (1 hour ride). Walking about 2 miles, approximately 1 hour.
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our first group activity. Orientation: 4:30 p.m. The Group Leaders will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Program-related transportation will be via shuttle or private bus unless noted otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for your understanding. Along with our Group Leaders, we will set out for a short walk into town to see the location of banks, pharmacies, and grocery stores. We’ll then return to the hotel for a “Welcome to the Amalfi” reception, where we will meet fellow Road Scholars.
Dinner:
In the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 35 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 2 miles; uneven, cobblestoned streets, some inclines from bus drop-off point to farm restaurant.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We begin the day with a scenic bus ride to Sorrento, taking in the breathtaking views as we travel through the picturesque Massalubrese region. Upon arriving in Sorrento, we'll walk through the charming streets, led by our Group Leader, who will introduce us to the town’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Shuttle service will be available to go back to the hotel.
Afternoon:
After some free time to explore the town and enjoy lunch at one of its delightful cafés or restaurants, we will gather again for the shuttle ride back to Sant'Agata. In the afternoon, we’ll dive deeper into the region's cultural heritage with a lecture on the Mythology of the Two Bays (Sorrento and Amalfi), presented by a local expert. This insightful session will explore the captivating stories and legends tied to the stunning landscapes surrounding us. Next, we board a bus to a local agriturismo, where we will immerse ourselves in the traditional cheese-making practices, including cacciotta and mozzarella, olive oil production, and winemaking. We’ll have the opportunity to explore the farm's animals and vegetable garden, followed by a tasting of local antipasti, showcasing the authentic flavors of the area. The day’s excitement continues with a hands-on pizza-making experience, where we will each customize our pizzas with various toppings. To wrap up our cultural experience, we’ll learn the steps to the traditional Tarantella dance, adding a fun and energetic end to our visit.
Dinner:
At the agriturismo.
Evening:
We will return to our hotel by bus, after which the evening will be at leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 7 miles from hotel to marina. Getting on/off a ferry to island of Capri, riding approximately 1 hour total. Funicular to town of Capri, taxis to town of Anacapri. Driving 8 miles, under 1/2 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; uneven terrain, cobblestones, inclines.
Breakfast:
At the hotel restaurant.
Morning:
We begin our day with a scenic bus ride to Sorrento Port, where we'll board a jetfoil for a smooth and picturesque journey to the enchanting island of Capri. Upon arrival, we'll embark on a private boat, expertly led by our local expert, to explore the mesmerizing grottos that dot the coastline, revealing the island's stunning natural beauty. After our boat excursion, we'll take the funicular up to Capri's charming town center, where our local expert will lead us through its winding streets, followed by a visit to the serene and picturesque Gardens of Cesare Augusto, offering breathtaking views of the island and surrounding seas.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After a leisurely lunch, we'll have some free time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to take a scenic walk to Punta Tragara, where you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the coastline and the famed Faraglioni rock formations. For families with children, the stony Marina Grande Beach offers a lovely spot to relax and swim—be sure to wear water shoes for comfort and safety. We'll then return to the port via funicular. Those staying in Capri town can continue to enjoy the area before taking the funicular back to the port and boarding the jetfoil for our return journey to Sant'Agata by bus. Once back at the hotel, we'll gather by the pool for a relaxing social hour, where you can unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink. To wrap up the day, our Group Leader will lead a lighthearted and informative Italian gestures class, offering a fun way to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. Shuttle service will be available for those wishing to dine in Sorrento.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 50 miles, approximately 2 hours total riding time. Walking up to 4 miles, approximately 2.5 hours; uneven cobblestone and dirt paths, steps, inclines, slippery when wet. Except at the entrance/exit, no benches or other places to sit in the archaeological park.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We begin our day with a scenic bus ride to the ancient city of Pompeii, where we will step back in time and explore one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world. Led by our local expert, we’ll wander through the well-preserved ruins, learning about the daily lives of the Romans before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. The terrain includes cobblestones and uneven pathways, so wear sturdy walking shoes to enjoy the experience fully.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll head to Mount Vesuvius, where we’ll begin our climb to the summit. Our hike will take us about two-thirds of the way up the volcano, offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples below. For those who wish to continue, there is an option to trek to the crater itself, where you can marvel at the active volcano and its surrounding landscape. Once we’ve completed our visit to Vesuvius, we’ll board the bus for a scenic ride back to Sant'Agata.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. Shuttle service will be available for those wishing to dine in Sorrento.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 10 miles, over 1/2 hour total riding time. Walking up to 2 miles, approximately 2 hours; uneven cobblestone and dirt paths, steps, inclines, no handrails, slippery when wet. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We begin our day with a bus ride to the picturesque town of Positano, where breathtaking views of the dramatic cliffs and sparkling coastline welcome us. Upon arrival, we'll take a leisurely walk with our Group Leaders through the charming streets of this iconic town, known for its colorful buildings cascading down the hillsides. Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Changing rooms will be available for those who wish to take a swim. For history enthusiasts, we offer the option to visit the Roman Villa in Positano, a hidden gem that showcases the remains of an ancient Roman settlement. Here, you can wander through the ruins, admire the site's historical significance, marvel at its structures, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Later, we'll board a private boat for a scenic cruise along the spectacular Amalfi Coastline, where the rugged cliffs meet the sparkling sea. The boat will take us to Amalfi, where we'll have more free time to wander its enchanting streets. You can visit the magnificent Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, perched at the top of a staircase (60 steps to the entrance), or soak in the beauty of this ancient town. After our time in Amalfi, we'll return to Sorrento by boat, enjoying the breathtaking coastal views once more before transferring by bus to our hotel in Sant'Agata.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 40 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours total riding time. Walking up to 5 miles, approximately 3 hours; rough terrain with uneven cobblestone, rock, and dirt paths, steps, some inclines, no handrails, slippery when wet. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll start our day with a bus ride to the town of Agerola, where we’ll lace up our hiking boots and gear up for the adventure ahead. Don’t forget to bring hats and sunscreen, and be ready for an unforgettable experience along the famous “Path of the Gods” (Sentiero degli Dei). Our local expert will lead us along this world-renowned trail, offering insightful commentary as we trek through the rugged terrain. The three-hour hike will take us through dirt and rock pathways, winding high above the Amalfi Coast with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the islands below. Boxed snacks and water will be provided to keep us energized as we trek. Once we finish our hike, we'll meet the bus in Agerola for the return journey to Sant'Agata.
Lunch:
At the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. In a classroom session at the hotel led by a local expert, we will delve into the intricate tapestry of Italian society, exploring its regional nuances and the profound influence of national institutions that continue to shape the lives of its residents with a lecture on Italy today. We'll also hear how Italy continues to undergo rapid economic and societal change. After a coffee break, we continue with an enlightening lecture about Italy's intricate political landscape in the hotel meeting room. Delving deep into the annals of history, our Instructor will guide us through the transformative events that shaped the nation from the 1860s, when Italy underwent a unification process, to the challenging years of fascism and World War II. We will gain valuable insights into the intricate tapestry of political developments, navigating through the complex narratives that led to the rise of influential figures such as Silvio Berlusconi and the formation of the latest government coalition. Prepare to broaden your understanding of Italy's political history as we unravel the stories that have shaped the nation's past and continue to influence its present.
Dinner:
On your enjoy to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a hotel shuttle. Walking up to 2 miles; uneven, cobblestoned streets. Elevator in the museum. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We start the day by taking the hotel shuttle into Sorrento to meet one of the many inlaid wood artisans who carry out the tradition of creating the most amazing wooden objects and sculptures. We will also explore the on-site museum, dedicated to wood-crafting and Sorrentine history. Then, try your hand at woodworking during a hands-on workshop to learn the basics of this ancient local tradition.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like. Shuttle service will be available back to the hotel.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. In the late afternoon, we’ll board our bus to head to our Farewell Dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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