Spotlight on Sorrento: Ancient wonders and culinary delights in Italy’s coastal gem
Stunning coastal views. Delicious cuisine. A rich, historical backdrop. It won’t take much to convince you that Sorrento is an extraordinary destination for a school trip. From the evocative ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum to its vibrant culinary scene, this Italian jewel provides an array of educational experiences we know your students will love. Whether it’s delving into the ancient Roman world, exploring local food traditions, or studying dramatic geographical landscapes, your group can look forward to a unique blend of learning and adventure they won’t find anywhere else.
Planning a school trip to Sorrento can be complex, but with our expert guidance, you can easily navigate your itinerary and arrangements. Equity is here to ensure your trip is both educational and seamless.
In this blog, we'll explore the learning opportunities Sorrento offers, highlight enriching free activities to include in your itinerary, and provide a snapshot of everyday costs. Prepare to immerse your students in the history and culture of this enchanting Italian destination.
Learning objectives covered by a Sorrento school trip
Classics
Give your students a distinctive insight into the daily life of the Roman Empire with a classics trip to Sorrento and its surrounds. The ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum tell compelling stories of life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, offering students the opportunity to explore the homes of the rich and poor, while aspects of town planning, architecture and decorative art can also be uncovered. If time permits, we also recommend a trip to the island of Capri to visit Emperor Tiberius’s stunning villa.
Food technology
With our bespoke food technology school trip to Sorrento, your students have the opportunity to learn about what Italy is most famous for – delicious cuisine! This area in particular is famous for its production of citrus fruits, olives and grapes, and there is a distinctive link between the produce grown and the cuisine of the region. In Sorrento, your group can learn the secrets behind the perfect pizza and pasta with a cookery evening full of authentic Italian recipes, or visit a food factory to learn about the making of gelato, mozzarella, or Italian olive oil. With so much history and culinary culture, this food technology trip is bound to excite your students’ minds and taste buds.
Geography
A compact area of dramatic extremes, Sorrento and its surrounds are home to sheer mountains, peaceful coastal plains and sparkling islands, as well as big-city life and traditional villages. An excursion to Vesuvius is a must for geography groups, paired well with a visit to Pompeii to explore the impact of a pyroclastic flow. On this wonderful trip, students can also learn about the deprivation and regeneration of Naples, coastal management on the Amalfi Coast, or the success of tourism in Sorrento and Capri.
Dual-destination options
Rome & Sorrento – Classics
Where else can Roman life be bought to life so vividly and effortlessly than on a classics school trip to Sorrento and Sorrento? Pupils taking this two-centre package gain a valuable insight into life in both Sorrento and the outlying regions that supplied the city. By exploring the wonderfully rich layers of Roman life preserved in Sorrento, Sorrento, and the surrounding area, your group will have plenty of source material to compare the different lives of the Roman Empire – from emperors through to farmers and slaves.
Free things to do in Sorrento for schools
Sorrento has many places to explore, like its neighbourhoods, markets, and historical sites, making your school trip interesting and affordable. Here’s the best of free activities the town has to offer:
Piazza Tasso
A bustling square surrounded by cafés, shops, and historic buildings, the Piazza Tasso is an excellent place in the heart of Sorrento to start a walking tour, and reflect upon about the town's culture and history.
Old Town (Centro Storico)
Wander the narrow streets of Sorrento’s Old Town, and admire the charming architecture, visit local artisan shops, and discover hidden courtyards.
Cathedral of Sorrento (Duomo di Sorrento)
Explore the beautiful Sorrento Cathedral, known for its striking façade and stunning interior with frescoes and intricate woodwork.
Marina Grande
Take a stroll along Marina Grande, the old fishing harbour of Sorrento. Students can enjoy views of colourful boats, traditional houses, and the stunning coastline, providing a picturesque setting for a group walk.
Basilica of Sant'Antonino
Visit the Basilica of Sant'Antonino and learn about Sorrento's patron saint, gain insights into the town’s religious history, and examine its Romanesque architecture and interesting artefacts.
Cloister of San Francesco
Discover the tranquil Cloister of San Francesco, a peaceful oasis with beautiful arches and gardens. The cloister is often used for local art exhibitions and events – who knows, you could stumble across your very own slice of Sorrentini culture.
Valley of the Mills (Vallone dei Mulini)
See the fascinating Valley of the Mills, a deep crevasse where the ruins of old mills and a sawmill are surrounded by lush greenery. This hidden gem provides a unique glimpse into Sorrento's past industrial life.
Villa Comunale Park
Relax in Villa Comunale, a beautiful public park offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Sorrento coastline.
Remember to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines for these attractions, as policies may change.
How much do every day items cost in Sorrento (2024)?
- Single ticket on public transport: €1.20 buses; €2-3.50 local rail
- Coffee: €1.50
- Burger and fries in a fast food restaurant: €9
- Slice of pizza: €1.50-4 (depending on toppings)
- Gelato: €1.50-10 (depending on scoops and toppings)
Ready to book your school trip to Sorrento?
Sorrento school trips offer a rich educational experience, combining ancient Roman history, culinary adventures, and stunning geographical landscapes. The town's array of free attractions enhances your visit, providing a cost-effective way to explore and learn. With our support, your group will be well-equipped to enjoy a memorable and educational journey through Sorrento and its surroundings.
To find out more about our school trips to Sorrento, or enquire about booking a school trip, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
