
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.
Enroll with Confidence
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Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
9 days
8 nights
14 meals
7B 3L 4D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
2
Arrive Sant'Agata, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
3
Sorrento Walk, Mythology, Cooking at the Agriturismo
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
4
Capri, Grottoes, Cesare Augusto Gardens, Hand Gestures
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
5
Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
6
Positano, Free Time, Boat to Amalfi
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
7
Path of the Gods, Inlaid Wood Artistry & Workshop
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
8
Italy Today, Italian Politics, Free Time
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
At a Glance
The only thing better than a learning adventure along Italy’s Mediterranean coast is one with your grandchild! Explore Sorrento and its surrounding treasures, including the Path of the Gods trail and Pompeii, as you and your grandchild both learn more about Italian history and culture through immersive experiences. You’ll venture to ruins that date back thousands of years and delve into their mythology, like the remains of a Greek temple that legend says was built by Ulysses in gratitude for protection on his epic journey. Then, watch history come to life as you talk with local inlaid wood artisans and try your hand at the ancient practice of woodworking through a hands-on workshop. Afternoon free time will allow you and your grandchild to continue to learn about this magical region and to bond with each other and your fellow Road Scholars!
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to four miles a day; elective hiking opportunities. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones, inclines, loose gravel, dirt paths. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums. Anticipate temperatures to reach 80-90°F consistently. Dress accordingly for visits to open-air archeological parks. Program-related travel and transfers will be via bus, boat, convertible, and funicular. Sheltered waiting areas may not be available at docks.

Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Spend a full day on the island of Capri, roaming cobblestone streets and voyaging to the famous grottoes.
- Explore the archaeological site of Pompeii and get up close to Mount Vesuvius on a short hike.
- Enjoy several afternoons of unscheduled free time with your grandchild, where you can swim, relax and make new friends with other grandparents and grandchildren.
Featured Expert
All trip experts

Michela Porcelli
Michela Porcelli was awarded an advanced degree in linguistic anthropology from the University of Naples. Fluent in English, Swedish, Spanish and French, Michela studied in the U.S. at the University of California Santa Barbara. Currently, she lives in Naples where she is involved in several research projects in linguistics at the university there.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Michela Porcelli
View biography
Michela Porcelli was awarded an advanced degree in linguistic anthropology from the University of Naples. Fluent in English, Swedish, Spanish and French, Michela studied in the U.S. at the University of California Santa Barbara. Currently, she lives in Naples where she is involved in several research projects in linguistics at the university there.

Sabina Gargiulo
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Sabina Gargiulo resides in Piano di Sorrento, and is a licensed regional guide specializing in the Campania region. Holding a degree in law from the esteemed Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Sabina possesses a diverse professional background encompassing legal consultancy, sales management, and event coordination. Her profound love for exploration and adventure fuels her passion for travel, with a particular focus on unraveling the rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that Campania has to offer. Sabina speaks Italian, English, Spanish, and French.

Irene Rios
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Irene Rios, born in Brazil, spent five years living and studying in the United Kingdom before relocating in 2003 to Italy, where she settled in Naples. With over 25 years of experience in the tourist and hospitality sectors, she is fluent in English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. Irene holds qualifications as a children's teacher and has worked as a freelance group leader in Italy. Additionally, she indulges her passion for photography as a freelance photographer, enjoying hiking, cooking, and meeting new people.

Alessandra Sarappa
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Alessandra Sarappa gained a wealth of cultural exposure through her previous role as a cabin crew member for a British company, traveling extensively. She honed her English at Rice University in Texas and resided there for three years. Fluent in French and her native Italian, Alessandra adores exploring Sorrento's hidden gems, fueled by her love for nature. Embracing her passion, she transitioned into a group leader and environmental guide. Alessandra's artistic flair shines through her photography, capturing the nuanced essence of local life.

Veronica Verde
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Veronica Verde is an experienced travel designer, environmental hiking guide, and travel leader with a master's in marketing management from the University of Bologna. She studied and lived abroad in Vienna and Rotterdam, and is fluent in Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish. Passionate about sustainable tourism and nature education, she designs and leads trekking expeditions across Southern Italy. Veronica enjoys hiking, traveling, and exploring the outdoors with her two young sons, inspiring families to embrace nature and slow, meaningful adventures together.
Suggested Reading List
(8 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Magic & Mythology of the Amalfi Coast With Your Grandchild
Program Number: 24549
My Brilliant Friend
"My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a gripping and evocative novel that delves into the intense and complex friendship between two girls, Elena and Lila, in post-war Naples, Italy. Set against a backdrop of poverty, violence, and societal constraints, the story follows the intertwined lives of these two young girls as they navigate the challenges of their neighborhood and strive for a better future. The novel vividly depicts their friendship, filled with loyalty, rivalry, and a deep connection that transcends their obstacles. As Elena and Lila grow into adolescence and adulthood, their paths diverge, leading them on separate journeys of self-discovery and ambition. Ferrante's writing is rich and immersive, drawing readers into the vividly portrayed world of Naples and the intricacies of the characters' lives. "My Brilliant Friend" is the first installment in a compelling four-book series that explores the complexities of friendship, identity, and the enduring impact of one's origins.
Art in Renaissance Italy
A comprehensive and insightful exploration of the art and culture that defined the Italian Renaissance. The book provides a rich and detailed overview of the period from the 13th to the 16th century, during which Italy witnessed a flourishing artistic achievement. Readers are guided through the major artistic centers of the Renaissance, including Florence, Rome, Venice, and Siena, as they delve into the works of renowned artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. The authors offer a deep analysis of the various artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts, while delving into the social, political, and religious contexts that shaped this remarkable period.
The Talented Mr Ripley
"The Talented Mr. Ripley" by Patricia Highsmith is a psychological thriller that introduces readers to the enigmatic and morally ambiguous character of Tom Ripley. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Europe, the novel follows Tom's journey from a struggling and fraudulent identity to becoming a masterful manipulator and imposter. When he is given the opportunity to travel to Italy to convince a wealthy industrialist's son, Dickie Greenleaf, to return to the United States, Tom seizes the chance to escape his mundane life. However, his fixation on Dickie and his desire to inhabit the world of the rich lead him down a dark path of deception, crime, and murder. Highsmith's skillful exploration of Tom's complex psyche and the moral ambiguity surrounding his actions makes "The Talented Mr. Ripley" a compelling and chilling exploration of the human capacity for duplicity and obsession.
Pompeii
In Robert Harris's historical thriller "Pompeii," the ancient city is both a captivating backdrop and an impending cataclysmic force. Set in the year 79 CE, the novel follows the life of Marcus Attilius, an aqueduct engineer tasked with maintaining the vital water supply to the city. As Attilius investigates mysterious disruptions in the aqueduct, he stumbles upon ominous signs of imminent disaster, including strange animal behavior and tremors. The novel weaves through the lives of other Pompeii residents, from a wealthy businessman to a rebellious enslaved person, all unaware of the impending eruption of Mount Vesuvius that will ultimately engulf their world. Harris masterfully combines historical accuracy with suspenseful storytelling, building a palpable sense of dread as the volcano's eruption draws near. "Pompeii" is a gripping tale of survival and catastrophe, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the lives of those caught in the devastating path of nature's fury.
In the Shadow of Vesuvius
This cultural history delves into the rich tapestry of Naples, from its ancient origins to its vibrant and complex present. Lancaster takes readers on a journey through the city's art, architecture, music, and folklore, uncovering the layers of influence from various civilizations that have left their mark on Naples. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the city's unique character, the book provides a vivid and comprehensive portrait of Naples, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of this enchanting Italian city.
Blue Guide Southern Italy
"Blue Guide Southern Italy" offers an in-depth exploration of the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes found in the southern regions of Italy. This comprehensive travel guide provides detailed information on historical sites, art, architecture, and archaeological treasures. Whether you're planning to visit the historic cities of Naples and Palermo, discover the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or explore the picturesque villages along the Amalfi Coast, this guide is your invaluable companion.
Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes
"Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton is a captivating journey into the world of ancient myths. With eloquence and scholarly insight, Hamilton brings to life the timeless tales of gods and heroes from Greek and Roman mythology. From the creation of the world to the heroic deeds of Hercules, the tragic love of Orpheus and Eurydice, and the epic adventures of Odysseus, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the myths that have shaped Western literature and culture. Hamilton's storytelling prowess and deep understanding of mythology make this book an enduring classic, making these ancient stories accessible and relevant for modern readers.
The Normans: A History of Conquest
Rowley delves into the origins of the Normans in the Viking age, their migration to Normandy, and their subsequent expansion into England, Sicily, and other territories. He explores the Norman military prowess, political strategies, and cultural contributions, shedding light on their influence in shaping the medieval world. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Rowley offers readers an in-depth look at the Norman legacy and their enduring impact on Europe's history and culture. This book is a valuable resource for those interested in medieval history and the multifaceted achievements of the Normans.