Skip to Main Content
Road Scholar logo
Italy

New Year's in Sorrento

Program No. 22188RJ
Experience New Year’s in Sorrento, a picturesque town on the gorgeous southern coastline of Italy. Celebrate the holidays as you learn Italian history and culture from local experts.
WishlistShare
Start
  • 22188
  • 22188
HolidaysSmall GroupCity Discoveries
Length
9 days
Rating (5)
Activity Level
Starts at
4,599
Flights start at
1,050
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
16 meals ( 7B, 5L, 4D )
3 expert-led lectures
10 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Walking about 1 mile; urban terrain.
Afternoon:
Check-in and settle in. At 4:45 p.m., we will embark on a short introductory walk of Sorrento with a local expert. This walk will familiarize us with the surrounding area of our program hotel, including key locations such as banks, pharmacies, and grocery stores. As we explore, we will also delve into the rich art and traditions of Sorrento, learning about the town's vibrant history and its influence on local art and culture. We will join our Group Leader in a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice) back at the hotel.
Dinner:
At 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
Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; stone steps, inclined path, steps with and without handrails. The extent of walking and other activities during free time is according to personal preference.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We gather in the meeting room for an Orientation session to review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts will be buffets. Other included meals will be plated and served from a set menu unless indicated otherwise; water is included, other beverages will be available for purchase. 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 might change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for being so understanding. We'll then enjoy an expert-led visit of Sorrento, immersing ourselves in the town's rich history and vibrant culture. This walk will give us a comprehensive view of Sorrento’s architectural beauty, natural wonders, and historical significance as a key port town. Our first stop will be the Vallone dei Mulini, where we'll explore the ruins of ancient mills (from above) set in a deep ravine. These mills once played a vital role in Sorrento's economy, and the area is now home to lush vegetation and historical remnants of a bygone era. Next, we'll visit the Crypt of the Basilica di Sant'Antonino, which houses the relics of the town’s patron saint, Sant'Antonino, and is a beautiful example of early Christian architecture. We will then continue to the Chiostro di San Francesco, a serene 14th-century cloister attached to the Church of San Francesco, known for its peaceful gardens and historic charm. Finally, we'll make our way to the overlook of the Marina Grande, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the harbor, watching local boats and fishermen unload their daily catch.
Lunch:
At the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon:
In anticipation of our upcoming adventures in Pompeii and Herculaneum, we will convene in the hotel's meeting room for an insightful session led by a local expert. This engaging presentation will immerse us in the art and architecture of Classical Greece and Rome, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the remarkable artistic and architectural achievements of these ancient civilizations. As we delve into the rich history and aesthetics of this era, we will be equipped with valuable insights to enhance our exploration of these iconic archaeological sites. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 16 miles, approximately 1.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 4 miles, approximately 4 hours; uneven cobblestone and dirt paths, steps, inclines, slippery when wet. Except at the entrance/exit, there are no benches or other places to sit in the archaeological park. The extent of walking and other activities during free time is according to personal preference.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our journey begins just outside the hotel, where we will board our comfortable bus that will transport us to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Pompeii. Led by a local expert, we will explore this remarkable archaeological site tragically preserved by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius on August 24, 79 CE. Once a bustling and vibrant city, Pompeii lay buried for centuries until its rediscovery in the late 16th century. Since then, meticulous excavations have been carried out continuously, uncovering a vast area spanning more than 170 acres, with approximately 120 acres already revealed to the world. During our time in Pompeii, we will stroll through the streets frozen in time, offering an immersive glimpse into the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants. We will venture into the impressive amphitheater, where gladiators once honed their skills, and leisurely wander down Via Abbondanza, the city's bustling main street. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to observe fascinating 1st-century political graffiti, providing a unique insight into the beliefs and concerns of the time. Our expert-led field trip will unfold over approximately four hours, allowing us to absorb the rich history and captivating stories that Pompeii holds within its ancient walls. Please be aware that due to the large number of visitors, it may be challenging to have an unobstructed view of the most renowned works.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll reboard our bus and return to the hotel. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At the hotel a special New Year's Eve dinner and celebration.
Evening:
Celebrate the New Year like a local in the lively main square of Sorrento, where the town comes alive with festivities, music, and excitement. Alternatively, enjoy a more intimate experience by watching the spectacular fireworks display from the hotel, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling sky over the Bay of Naples.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving 10 miles, about 45 minutes of riding time. Walking 2 miles; uneven stone pavement, some inclines, stairs in museum to reach upper level.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Embarking on an engaging field trip, we will walk to the esteemed Tarsia Museum. This museum showcases a wealth of materials, tools, and traditional motifs used by master artisans in the intricate craft of marquetry, also known as inlaid wood design. Here, we will have the privilege of witnessing the preservation and transmission of this decorative art tradition firsthand, as the museum also serves as a workshop dedicated to teaching the craft to local youth. This noble endeavor ensures the continuity of this cherished art form for generations to come, and we will have the opportunity to witness the passion and skill of these talented artisans as they pass down their expertise to future artisans. We will then board a bus to take us out of Sorrento for our New Year's lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will board our bus back to Sorrento. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 1 mile from hotel to marina. Getting on/off the ferry to the island of Capri, boat ride 1 hour total. Taxis to the town of Anacapri. Driving 8 miles, 20 minutes riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; uneven terrain, cobblestones, inclines.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will take a quick bus ride down to the charming Marina Piccola. From there, we will board a public boat that will transport us across the shimmering waters to the enchanting island of Capri, renowned for its lush landscapes and unparalleled beauty. Stepping foot on this captivating island, we will find ourselves immersed in a world of intricate cobblestone lanes and chic neighborhoods, each brimming with its unique charm. Upon arriving at Capri, we will ascend to the heights of Anacapri in limo cars, offering us a delightful journey to the heart of this island paradise. Our local expert will lead us on a walk to the Villa of San Michele, home of the Swedish physician Axel Munthe, who visited Capri in 1885 and built his dream house "open to the sun, to the wind, and the voice of the sea, just like a Greek temple, and light everywhere." We’ll explore the villa and terraced gardens. Note: Please be aware that encountering crowded conditions while walking through town and aboard the boat is possible.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Our footsteps will lead us to the picturesque and fragrant Cesare Augusto Gardens, where we will be greeted by sweeping vistas and intoxicating scents. Here, we will have the opportunity for independent exploration, allowing us to wander the scenic Via Tragara and discover hidden gems. Visiting the Belvedere is a must for those seeking awe-inspiring views, providing a panoramic perspective of the majestic Faraglioni rock formations. Alternatively, indulge in a moment of pure pleasure by treating yourself to a delectable gelato or a refreshing beverage at one of the inviting local cafes. Afterward, we will return to the port by bus and take the jetfoil back to Sorrento. From there, we’ll board a bus to return to our hotel. 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 process of unification, 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 own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving 40 miles, about 2 hours of riding time. Getting on/off a boat, riding approximately 3/4 hour. In the event of bad weather that prevents the boat from leaving Positano for Amalfi, we will walk up the hill along town sidewalks to the parking lot and board our bus to Amalfi. Walking up to 3 miles; uneven terrain, steps, inclines.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will set out by bus for a learning adventure along the Amalfi Coast. The scenic, narrow, winding road is cut into cliffs above the Mediterranean Sea. En route, we will stop in the elegant seaside town of Positano, with its characteristic white and pastel-colored houses that cling in tiers to the rock face. Dating back to the Roman era, Positano was a bustling maritime town, serving as a vital trading hub for goods such as ceramics, spices, and silk. Throughout the centuries, the town witnessed the rise and fall of different civilizations, including the Byzantines and the Normans. However, during the 19th century, Positano experienced a significant decline, resulting in economic struggle and depopulation. In the mid-20th century, the town underwent a remarkable revitalization and transformation into the charming and vibrant destination we know today. We’ll have time for independent exploration before boarding a private boat to Amalfi, with views of the cascading houses and lush gardens on the mountain face. The bus will continue to Amalfi, and we will reconnect after our boat ride. A local expert will lead our exploration of Amalfi, including sites such as Piazza del Duomo, the main square, and more. We’ll then have some time on our own to explore Amalfi or visit the interior of the 13th-century cathedral of Sant’Andrea. Note: Please be aware that encountering crowded conditions while walking through town is possible. Also, please note that the boat operates only when the weather is suitable for safe navigation.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Our field trip will then continue to Ravello, where we will take in the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast from the Villa Rufolo. This historic villa, dating back to the 13th century, boasts lush gardens adorned with vibrant flowers and exotic plants, creating a serene oasis amidst ancient architecture. Its famous Moorish-style tower and the scenic terrace inspired Richard Wagner's opera Parsifal. We will ride back to Sorrento after our field trip.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; total driving 55 miles, about 2 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles; uneven cobblestone and gravel paths in archaeological park, inclines, few places to sit and rest. Note: Ride out to the farm restaurant is 50 minutes via a scenic winding road; ride back is direct, about 10 minutes. Walking about 50 feet, uneven terrain, steps, inclines from bus drop-off point to farm restaurant.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board a bus and ride to the ancient city of Herculaneum. Steeped in myth and legend, Herculaneum is believed to have been founded by the legendary figure Hercules in 1243 BCE. This once prosperous and luxurious resort town met a fateful fate during the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE, which also engulfed Pompeii in its deadly embrace. Herculaneum remained hidden until its rediscovery in 1707 when a well-digging project unexpectedly revealed its secrets. However, it wasn't until 1738 that extensive excavations commenced, unveiling a remarkably well-preserved site. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum's buildings suffered a different kind and rate of volcanic damage, resulting in their exceptional preservation. Among the notable structures is the renowned Villa of the Papyri, where approximately 1,800 carbonized scrolls were unearthed. This remarkable villa inspired the architectural marvel known as the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, California. As we delve into Herculaneum's fascinating history and discoveries, we will witness firsthand the remarkable legacy left behind by this ancient city. Following our visit, we return by bus to our hotel in Sorrento.
Lunch:
On your own to have what you like.
Afternoon:
We will venture on a scenic journey through the picturesque Sorrento countryside as we board our comfortable bus. Along the way, we will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that showcase the region's natural beauty. Our delightful drive will lead us to an enchanting "agriturismo," a charming farm restaurant nestled amidst the idyllic surroundings. Here, we will have the unique opportunity to engage in a mozzarella cheese demonstration, witnessing the transformation from fresh milk and rennet into a delectable soft cheese. Our gracious host will guide us through the intricacies of olive oil and wine production, sharing the secrets behind these beloved regional delicacies. To further immerse ourselves in the region's culinary delights, we will don aprons provided by the cook and eagerly lend a hand in preparing authentic and flavorful regional dishes. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and savor the unforgettable experience of bringing traditional flavors to life.
Dinner:
At the agriturismo. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
Returning to the hotel, prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check out 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Travel Information” regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on departure time. This concludes the 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!
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
Please Note: This program has itinerary variations on certain dates.
Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
Dec 28, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
Dec 28 - Jan 5, 2026 Itinerary Differences: Please note that this New Year's departure offers a unique experience at a more upscale hotel near Sorrento's beach.