Geography Field Trips to Sicily and Naples
Naples | Mount Vesuvius | Pompeii | Cefalù | Palermo | Sorrento Peninsula
Our immersive Geography Field Trips to Sicily and Naples takes students through some of Italy’s most striking landscapes and ancient ruins. Experience volcanoes, ancient ruins, and coastal landscapes. From the explosive activity of Mount Etna in Sicily to the historic remnants of Pompeii and the stunning coastline of the Sorrento Peninsula, this journey brings key geographical concepts to life. The trip offers insight into volcanic hazards, urban planning in the wake of natural disasters, and coastal and river landscapes—ideal for GCSE and A-Level Geography students.
Additional Visits and Enrichment Opportunities:
- Visit Teatro Antico di Taormina: Explore the links between ancient civilizations and landscape use.
- Optional excursions to Agrigento or Siracusa: Enhance cultural and historical understanding of Sicily’s ancient past.
- Visit Ercolano (Herculaneum): Discover another city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius.
- Enjoy a Cannolo Cooking Class in Taormina: A fun, hands-on cultural experience.
Geography Field Trips to Sicily and Naples – Curriculum Links:
GCSE Geography Topics:
- Natural Hazards: Tectonic Hazards (Volcanoes)
- Physical Landscapes: Rivers and Coasts
- Urban Challenges and Tourism Management
A-Level Geography Topics:
- Plate Tectonics and Associated Hazards
- Coastal Systems and Landscapes
- Water and Carbon Cycles
- Contemporary Urban Environments
Geography Field Trips to Sicily and Naples
- Duration: 4 Days
- Board: Full board
- Passengers: 40
- Free Staff Places: 5
Accommodation
King’s House Hotel Resort
Set in the charming town of Fondachello di Mascali, King’s House Hotel Resort offers comfortable, family-friendly accommodation perfect for school groups. Each air-conditioned room features a private balcony, bathroom, sofa bed, work desk, and complimentary WiFi, ensuring a relaxed and convenient stay. Ideally located within walking distance of Fondachello Beach, the hotel is also close to popular attractions like the Taormina Cable Car and the beautiful Isola Bella, making it an ideal base for exploring Eastern Sicily.
Excursions & Inclusions
Mount Etna, Taormina’s Greek Theatre, Palermo, Cefalù, Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii, and an optional Cannolo cooking class in Taormina.
Where it’s held
This trip takes place in Sicily and Naples, Italy, offering students an immersive exploration of volcanic landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning coastal scenery. Students will visit Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and explore the ancient Greek Theatre in Taormina. The journey continues to Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula, where students will experience Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii, and the UNESCO-listed Cathedral in Cefalù. This geographical journey provides a hands-on understanding of tectonic hazards, coastal systems, and historical landscapes.
Sample Itinerary for Geography Field Trips to Sicily and Naples
Day 1: ARRIVAL (D)
Arrive at Catania Airport, where you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel in the Catania/Giardini Naxos area, the perfect starting point for exploring eastern Sicily. Depending on your arrival time, explore the dynamic city of Catania, which offers a fascinating case study in urban environments shaped by volcanic activity, or enjoy a panoramic coach tour along the Cyclops Riviera, renowned for its dramatic coastal cliffs and volcanic formations. Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight stay in the Catania/Giardini Naxos area.
Day 2: MOUNT ETNA & TAORMINA (B, D)
After breakfast, embark on a day exploring Mount Etna, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Guided by experts, observe volcanic landforms, craters, and lava flows—real-world examples of Plate Tectonics, Volcanic Hazards, and Hazard Management Strategies. Continue your journey to Taormina, where you will tour the ancient Greek Theatre and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Etna and the coastline. Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: PALERMO, CEFALÙ & NAPLES (B, D)
After breakfast, travel to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, with a stop in Cefalù to explore its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Norman Cathedral. Continue to Palermo, where you'll board an overnight ferry to Naples—an experience that allows students to reflect on the journey thus far while traveling along the coast. Enjoy dinner onboard and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 4: NAPLES & POMPEII (B, D)
Arrive in Naples in the morning and start the day by exploring Mount Vesuvius, the infamous volcano that erupted in 79 AD, burying Pompeii. Ascend to the summit for sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and the ruins below. Next, visit the preserved city of Pompeii, learning about the eruption’s devastating effects and how the city’s remains provide valuable insights into Roman life. Transfer to your hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula for a well-earned rest and dinner. DAY 5:
Day 5: DEPARTURE (B)
After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore Sorrento, known for its charming streets, stunning views of the Bay of Naples, and rich cultural heritage. Depending on your flight time, you may visit additional local sights or do some last-minute shopping. Later, meet your coach for a smooth transfer to Naples Airport for your return flight home.