Do this because

Discover the rich history of pasta and listen to captivating stories from local specialists about how Gragnano, the global hub of dried pasta production, gained international acclaim and ultimately became famous worldwide for pasta production

Learn from a volunteer historian and retired miller who is deeply engaged in the restoration project, as they unravel the secrets of Gragnano's pasta heritage in the Valley of the Mills

Experience an exclusive opportunity to visit restored mills in the Valley of the Mills, a lush green ravine strategically positioned between mountains and the sea on the slopes between Sorrento, Naples and the Amalfi Coast

Go behind the scenes to the production area and witness the pasta-making and packaging process step by step, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision that goes into it

Delight in the sumptuous flavors of gragnese pasta as you indulge in a lunch featuring a delectable plate of this culinary masterpiece

Access

Immerse yourself in the destinations and attractions you explore through exclusive access and hands-on experiences based on National Geographic’s existing relationships around the globe.

Knowledge

Discover the world through the lens of National Geographic as National Geographic-trained guides and local experts share their knowledge and passion of the places and locations you visit.

Give back

Experience meaningful explorations with a commitment to sustainable tourism, with all tours meeting the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria and a portion of proceeds dedicated to fund research.

Local immersion

Become inspired to care about the planet and its people by gaining a deeper understanding of the communities and inhabitants of the places you visit through interaction and insights into their daily lives.

Storytelling

Be a part of the story of each destination you visit through the unparalleled content and research from National Geographic you’ll be exposed to, making you reflect on different current realities.

What to expect

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Gragnano, the epicenter of dried pasta production. The tour starts with a picturesque bus ride along the Bay of Naples, offering panoramic views dominated by the presence of Mount Vesuvius. Throughout the day, your National Geographic-trained guide will provide intriguing insights into Campanian culture.

Your first destination is the idyllic Valley of the Mills, nestled between the towns of Sorrento, Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Here, you'll have the rare privilege of exploring the historical site, together with a local historian & retired miller who is dedicated to this important restoration project. He will explain in detail the ingenious engineering that powered the mills, a captivating revelation exclusively reserved for National Geographic travelers. As you take a leisurely stroll through this lush landscape, you can connect with the natural beauty that has inspired generations.

The next stop is a renowned pasta factory with deep-rooted traditions. Prepare to be amazed by the creativity of chief pasta maker, Antonino Moccia, and the factory's 140 different shapes of pasta, some of which are patented. Accompanied by the factory's owner, you'll embark on a tour of the museum, hearing intimate stories that have shaped this industry over the centuries.

Don your apron and go backstage to the production area to see the pasta-making process step by step, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision that goes into crafting each piece of pasta. You'll discover the meticulous packaging techniques that ensure the final product reaches homes around the world in pristine condition. As a delightful conclusion to your immersive experience, savour the culmination of this intricate process by indulging in a plate of gragnese pasta, allowing the rich flavours and unique texture to transport you to the heart of Italian culinary tradition.

Important to know

This tour may not be suitable for gluten-sensitive or gluten-intolerant due to the amount of loose flour in the air
This experience doesn't follow our general cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, you must do so at least 48-hours in advance to receive a full refund.
Not suitable for wheelchairs
Children must be supervised by an adult (over 18 years) at all time
Bring suitable footwear