Classics school trips to Sorrento

Buried during the same series of volcanic eruptions that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD, this ancient municipality was buried deeper than its neighbouring towns, leaving behind some of the best-preserved ruins in the Bay of Naples. Highlights of the archaeological site include Terme Maschili, the Central Baths, and the Fornici – a series of port warehouses which hold the skeletal remains of workers and soldiers – all exhibits we’ve seen captivate student groups.

Contemplate the disastrous impact of the 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius with a guided tour of Pompeii – a major city that was buried by volcanic ash and pumice. Following centuries of incredible excavations, Pompeii was found beneath the ash, and makes up some of the best-preserved ruins of the Bay of Naples.

One of the most important archaeological museums in Italy, owing to its incredible collection of artefacts from the Herculaneum and Pompeii, it brings the dusty ruins to life. The Archaeological Museum of Naples (often abbreviated to MANN) is an excursion not to be missed. Here, students can gaze in wonder at works from Greek, Roman and Renaissance times.

Formed more than 4,000 years ago, Lake Avernus is a body of water that lies inside a volcanic crater, its mysterious appearance the subject of both Greek and Roman mythology. According to legend, the lake leads to Hades and the underworld; in reality, the shores of the lake feature the entrance to a long tunnel leading towards Cumae, and the remains of temples dedicated to Apollo and Jupiter.

Founded in 750 BC, Cumae is thought to have been the earliest Greek colony on the Italian mainland. The site’s extensive Ancient Greek and Roman ruins tell the story of the settlement’s power and dominance, its incorporation into the Roman Empire and its eventual decline. A must-see for students interested in ancient history and classical studies.

Students can study the history, geography and geology of this magnificent active volcano on a school trip to Vesuvius, one of several volcanoes which form the Campanian volcanic arc. Best known for its volcanic eruption in 79 AD that left devastating effects on the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, we know students will love getting up close with the volcano.

Take to Sorrento’s narrow, winding roads on this excursion, where you’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast en route to the town of Amalfi. During your visit, students can practice their language skills in the local shops and cafes, visit Amalfi’s medieval cathedral, and wander around the town’s Arab-style villa and charming gardens.

Founded in the 6th century BC, Paestum was one of the signature cities of ancient Greece to exist in Italy. Although it was abandoned after a series of raids and malaria epidemics, today the site is famous for its three Greek temples in the Doric order, which are some of the best-preserved in the world.

Home to a huge selection of flavours, from ricotta and pear to wild strawberry, Davide is one of Sorrento’s favourite ice cream parlours, and the best location for school groups to try this Italian speciality. On this excursion, students will receive a demonstration on how to make Italy's most beloved frozen dessert, before indulging in a tasting session. Yum!

At this fascinating archaeological site, students can develop their understanding of the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and its subsequent impact on Roman life. We’ve seen school groups astounded as they explore the Terme Maschili, the Central Baths and the Fornici – all of which contribute to some of the best-preserved ruins in the Bay of Naples.

Above ground, Naples is a vibrant and charismatic city, but little is known about what goes on underneath the city. On this excursion, students will descend into the atmospheric underground tunnels of Naples and discover a treasure trove of secrets – from the Greek-Roman aqueduct, to the ancient remains of a Roman theatre and WWII air-raid shelters. An experience so jam packed, we know they’ll love it.

The largest palace built in Europe during the 18th century, the Royal Palace of Caserta offers student groups a great learning experience about Italy’s prominence and power during this time. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the palace has been described as the “swan song” of Baroque art, and as such is an excellent excursion for both history and art students.

Located off the coast of the Bay of Naples, the stunning island of Capri is famed for its crystal clear waters, rugged landscape and world famous Blue Grotto caves. The perfect place for visit for a geography trip, the island offers students a deeper understanding of coastal erosion and geomorphology.

A charming resort overlooking the Bay of Naples set just a short distance from the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Capri, Sorrento is brimming with ancient Roman history, plunging cliffs and lemon groves for students to explore – all set against a stunning seaside backdrop. We know your group will love wandering around the town centre, where museums sit alongside palatial hotels, marquetry shops and excellent Sorrentine restaurants.