NAPLES: WHERE MYTH AND HISTORY MEET

Naples captivates visitors with its remarkable fusion of ancient myth and history. Nestled between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the iconic Mount Vesuvius, the city’s storied past unfolds at every turn. From the legendary Phlegraean Fields to the ruins of Cumae, the echoes of Greek and Roman civilizations reverberate, inviting travelers to uncover the layers of this living museum. Beneath the vibrant modern landscape, a tapestry of archaeological wonders and legendary narratives awaits those curious to explore Naples’ remarkable heritage. Where else can one commune with the ghosts of the past while immersed in the captivating present?

Key Points

• Explore the Phlegraean Fields, a volcanic region west of Naples rich in Greek legends and Roman history.
• Visit Cumae, Italy’s oldest Greek colony founded in 775 B.C., and discover its ancient ruins, including the Acropolis and Grotto of the Sybil.
• Witness the mystical Lago d’Averno, believed to be the entrance to the river Styx in Greek mythology.
• Taste ancient Greco-Roman style wines and learn about the cultural and culinary heritage of the Phlegraean Fields.
• Experience the dual Greek and Roman influences that have shaped the unique history and atmosphere of the Naples region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This 12-hour private group tour explores the mythical and historical sites around Naples, offering an immersive experience across the Phlegraean Fields.

Priced from $327 per person, the tour is available daily and caters to small groups, with guide services offered in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, French, Italian, and Spanish.

Departures are available from Naples, Gaeta, and Sorrento, providing convenient access for visitors.

Throughout the journey, you will explore the rich Greek legends and Roman history that have shaped this captivating region, culminating in a wine tasting featuring ancient Greco-Roman style wines paired with a light lunch.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins by exploring the Phlegraean Fields, where Greek legends and Roman history intertwine to create a captivating landscape. Visitors will view the mythical Lago d’Averno, believed to be the entrance to the river Styx.

Next, they’ll visit Cumae, the oldest Greek colony in Italy, founded in 775 B.C. Highlights include the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo, and the Grotto of the Sybil, where Virgil’s Aeneas consulted the ancient oracle.

In the Baia area, guests will tour the Castle of Baia and the Nymphaeum of Emperor Claudius.

The experience culminates with a wine tasting featuring ancient Greco-Roman style wines, paired with a light lunch.

Historical Significance

Cumae, founded in 775 B.C., holds immense historical significance as the oldest Greek colony in Italy. Settled by Euboean Greeks, this ancient city played a crucial role in Roman mythology, as it was here that Virgil’s Aeneas consulted the Cumaean Sybil, the famous ancient oracle.

The historical importance of Cumae is further cemented by:

1. The presence of an ancient Roman road and a monumental Roman arch en route to the site.

2. The Acropolis, Temple of Apollo, and the Grotto of the Sybil, all of which hold deep cultural and historical significance.

3. The Phlegraean Fields, a region that combines Greek legends and Roman history.

4. The mythical Lago d’Averno, believed to be the entrance to the river Styx in the underworld.

Transportation and Accessibility

Hotel pick-up from Sorrento (7:30 am), Naples or Gaeta (8:00 am) ensures convenient transportation to the tour’s starting point.

The activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the historic nature of the sites visited.

Guests will travel in style aboard Mercedes S-Class sedans, vans, or minivans, enjoying a comfortable and efficient journey.

This private group tour offers a personalized experience, with the flexibility to accommodate individual needs.

The transportation provided is an essential component, seamlessly connecting visitors to the rich tapestry of Naples’ mythology and history.

Whether departing from Sorrento, Naples, or Gaeta, the tour’s transportation arrangements prioritize accessibility and convenience for all participants.

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Booking Information

Complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start allows for flexible scheduling, while the reserve-now-pay-later option provides convenient booking.

The activity’s inclusive offerings encompass a historical tour leader, skip-the-line admission fees, a wine tasting, and transportation, ensuring a comprehensive and seamless experience. However, personal items and any unlisted services remain the responsibility of the participants.

The booking process for this tour includes:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Reserve now and pay later option available.

3. Admission fees, guided tour, and transportation included.

4. Personal expenses and unlisted items are excluded.

Exploring the Phlegraean Fields

The tour’s exploration of the Phlegraean Fields combines Greek legends and Roman history, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich past. This volcanic area, just west of Naples, is steeped in mythological significance. Visitors will view Lago d’Averno, believed to be the mythical entrance to the river Styx. Nearby, the ancient city of Cumae, founded by Greek settlers in 775 B.C., holds the ruins of an acropolis, temple, and the legendary Grotto of the Sybil. Along the way, travelers will encounter a well-preserved ancient Roman road and monumental arch, further highlighting the area’s deep historical roots.

Phlegraean Fields Highlights
Lago d’Averno	Mythical River Styx Entrance
Cumae	Oldest Greek Colony (775 B.C.)	Acropolis, Temple, Sybil’s Grotto
Ancient Roman Road	Monumental Roman Arch

Visiting the Ancient Cumae

According to the itinerary, visitors journeying to the Phlegraean Fields will have the opportunity to explore the ancient city of Cumae, the oldest Greek colony in the region, founded in 775 B.C. Here, they can marvel at the well-preserved ruins of the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo, and the legendary Grotto of the Sybil.

The site’s historical significance is profound, as it was here that Virgil’s Aeneas consulted the Cumaean Sybil.

Visitors can also discover:

1. The ancient Roman road and monumental arch en route to the site.

2. The role of Cumae as a significant location in Roman mythology.

3. The city’s dual Greek and Roman heritage, reflecting its unique history.

4. The opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of this ancient Greek colony.

Wine Tasting and Baia Tour

After exploring the ancient ruins of Cumae, the tour continues to the Baia area, where participants can enjoy a wine tasting featuring ancient Greco-Roman style wines paired with a light lunch.

The Baia area was once a popular resort for the elite of ancient Rome, and the tour will visit the impressive Castle of Baia and the well-preserved Nymphaeum of Emperor Claudius.

The wine tasting provides an opportunity to sample wines produced in the Phlegraean Fields, which have a long history dating back to the Greeks and Romans.

This unique experience allows visitors to appreciate the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the Naples region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, the tour price includes a wine tasting featuring ancient Greco-Roman style wines with a light lunch, according to the tour’s itinerary highlights.

Can Children Participate in the Wine Tasting?

Children cannot participate in the wine tasting portion of the tour. The activity is designed for adults and the wine tasting is not included for minors. Alternative non-alcoholic refreshments would be provided for any children on the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, as the tour involves some walking. No formal attire is required.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Exploring Sites?

The tour allocates ample free time for guests to explore the historical sites at their own pace. Visitors can spend approximately 1-2 hours exploring each key location, such as the Acropolis and Grotto of the Sybil, during the 12-hour excursion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though visitors should be physically able to handle moderate walking and exploring ancient sites. The itinerary is designed to engage both adults and children.

Recap

Naples is a captivating intersection of myth and history, offering visitors a rich tapestry of ancient tales and archaeological wonders.

Exploring its legendary sites, from the Phlegraean Fields to the ruins of Cumae, allows one to feel the echoes of Greek and Roman civilizations, making Naples a true living museum.

Whether visiting the Acropolis or indulging in a wine tasting, the city’s mythical allure and historical significance create an unparalleled experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: