Paestum isn’t just about ancient ruins—though they are spectacular—it offers a range of engaging tours and experiences that deepen your understanding of the region’s culture, cuisine, and landscape. Whether you’re interested in tasting authentic buffalo mozzarella, sipping regional wines, or soaring above the temples in a powered paraglider, Paestum has something to satisfy every curiosity. We particularly love the Paestum: City Orientation Tour for its perfect introduction and the Mozzarella Experience for cheese lovers looking for a tasty, hands-on adventure. These options provide immersive encounters with local traditions, making your visit both memorable and authentic.
If you want a quick overview, this list covers cultural insights, culinary delights, scenic flights, and outdoor adventures—all tailored for different interests and energy levels. Each tour is carefully selected for its unique value, quality reviews, and practical appeal, ensuring you find the perfect experience during your stay. Let’s explore what each has to offer.
1. Paestum: City Orientation Tour
This 1.5-hour tour offers a compact yet comprehensive introduction to the town of Capaccio Paestum. It’s ideal for travelers arriving in the area who want a quick snapshot of local sights and flavors. The tour begins with a visit to the walls of Paestum, where you’ll get a sense of the ancient city’s scale and preservation. From there, you’ll head to the belvedere of Madonna del Granato, a viewpoint that provides sweeping views of the Cilento landscape.
A standout feature is a visit to a buffalo farm, where you can learn about how mozzarella is made and even taste fresh samples. This experience caters well to those wanting a blend of history and local gastronomy without a long commitment. The tour includes a photo stop at the museum and a food tasting session, making it perfect for a quick cultural fix. Reviewers consistently praise its quality, with one calling it “Excellent” and rating it 5/5.
Bottom Line: Best for first-timers or those short on time, this tour offers a lively overview with plenty of tasting and photo opportunities.
2. Mozzarella Experience: Tour + Lunch in Paestum’s Dairy
For cheese lovers, the Mozzarella Experience blends education and deliciousness in a three-hour visit to a renowned dairy farm. This tour includes worry-free transfers, a guided visit to the farm, and tastings of fresh buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, and other dairy products. The highlight is the chance to see how authentic buffalo mozzarella is made, from milking to cheese production.
Guests rave about the informative guides, especially Teresa, who makes the complex process accessible and engaging. The tour concludes with a tasting lunch featuring cheese paired with local breads and accompaniments. Visitors mention that the location is a well-kept farm with happy animals, and the experience feels authentic rather than commercial. It’s a fantastic outing for culinary enthusiasts and families wanting a relaxed, tasty experience.
Value-wise, it offers a substantial hands-on experience at a reasonable length, making it suitable for those wanting to combine cultural sightseeing with excellent food. One reviewer summarized, “Brilliant, fun, and very tasty.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for cheese aficionados or those seeking a relaxed, flavorful break from archaeological sites.
3. Cilento Wine: Tour & Tasting Experience
This 2-hour tour takes you through the vineyards of Cilento, offering insights into local wine production paired with a tasting of four regional wines. The experience begins with a guided walk through a scenic vineyard, where you’ll learn about the grape varieties and the production process from knowledgeable guides. Afterwards, you’ll sample a selection of wines alongside local cheeses, cured meats, and other regional specialties.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced focus on both the visual beauty of the vineyard and the educational aspect of wine tasting. Your guide is praised for clarity and enthusiasm, making complex wine details accessible. The included tasting offers a chance to savor the distinct flavors of Cilento wines—a worthwhile experience for wine lovers or those curious about Italian viticulture.
Reviewers mention that the wines are exquisite and that the experience is well-organized, with excellent value for its duration. It’s ideal if you want to enjoy both scenery and a tangible taste of local craftsmanship.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine enthusiasts wanting a short but enriching experience in Cilento’s vineyards.
4. In the heart of Cilento: nourish your soul
This 7-hour excursion offers a spiritual and cultural journey through two historic chapels—the Chapel of Madonna del Carmine and the Chapel of Madonna della Stella—plus visits to the charming villages of Cardile and Omignano. It’s less about sights and more about feeling the essence of Cilento through its religious sites, local architecture, and scenic countryside.
Participants enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where they can sample regional cuisine. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and the authenticity of the villages and chapels visited. It’s suitable for travelers interested in cultural reflection and scenic drives rather than fast-paced sightseeing.
The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with many appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to connect with local traditions. The experience is ideal for travelers seeking a spiritual or cultural respite from their itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in a meaningful, leisurely exploration of Cilento’s spiritual and rural charm.
5. Paestum for cruise passengers
Designed specifically for cruise travelers, this 6-hour guided tour from Naples makes the most of your stop in Paestum. It covers the archaeological park, including the famous Tomb of the Diver, and the National Archaeological Museum, providing a comprehensive look at the site’s history and art.
The transportation is included, ensuring smooth transfers from the cruise port, and the itinerary is flexible enough for those wanting a relaxed experience without feeling rushed. The tour’s reviews highlight its reliability and the convenience of the full-culture package tailored to cruise schedules.
If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded visit, this tour offers a potent dose of history along with free time to explore or shop in Paestum’s surroundings. It’s excellent for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A practical, complete cultural excursion, ideal for cruise passengers seeking a worry-free, enriching experience.
6. Paestum: powered paragliding flight over the temples
For the adrenaline junkies and those craving a truly unique view, this 30-minute powered paragliding flight offers a 360-degree panorama of Paestum’s iconic temples, the Cilento coast, and beyond. Guided by experienced pilot Pasquale, you’ll soar above the ruins and the surrounding landscape, enjoying a safe and exhilarating experience.
What makes this tour special is the combination of adventure and scenery—flying among ancient Greek temples with the coastline stretching into the distance. Reviewers describe it as “Perfect,” and one said it was a “unique Easter experience,” highlighting how memorable and accessible it is, even for first-timers.
The guided nature of the flight ensures safety, and the adventurous option is suitable for most people, provided you’re comfortable with mild heights. It’s an unforgettable way to see Paestum from above, especially if you’re craving something different.
Bottom Line: Best for thrill-seekers or those wanting a spectacular aerial perspective of Paestum’s ancient temples.
7. Sailing Experience in Cilento
This 4-hour sailing tour combines scenic coastal views with the experience of being on the water. Led by a skipper, the trip includes sailing along the Cilento coast, stopping for crystal-clear swim and an aperitif featuring local regional products.
Guests love the relaxed pace and the chance to float in the unspoiled waters, with many mentioning how enjoyable the local aperitif tastes after a swim. The return transfer from Paestum to the sailing port makes planning easier.
It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a leisurely outdoor activity that combines nature, local cuisine, and a gentle adventure on the sea.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers and families looking for a relaxed, scenic sailing experience.
8. Visit a village by e-bike and taste the excellent wine
This 4-hour guided e-bike tour offers a chance to explore the historic village of Trentinara and its beautiful vineyards. The tour includes bike rental, transportation, and a wine tasting in the vineyard setting, making it a well-rounded outdoor experience. The bike ride is about 1.5 hours and passes through scenic countryside, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views.
Participants rave about the expert guide and the tasty wine and picnic in Trentinara. The tour suits those who want active sightseeing combined with culinary delights, especially wine tasting. The well-organized nature of the tour makes it accessible for most fitness levels.
One reviewer called it “Bellissima,” emphasizing how well the experience balances outdoor activity and regional flavors. It’s a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts who want a more active day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who love wine and scenic countryside, with a relaxed pace and a tasty payoff.
9. Wine tasting in Cilento with professional sommelier
This 6-hour experience is a deep dive into Cilento’s wine gems, guided by a professional sommelier, Roberto. The tour includes transportation, a brunch and multiple wine tastings, plus regional cheeses and foods, all designed to showcase Cilento’s unspoiled landscape and authentic flavors.
Guests praise Roberto’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the area’s wines, which are linked to Cilento’s status as a National Park. The tour is likely suited for serious wine lovers or those interested in regional gastronomy, offering a comprehensive look at local producers and their stories.
The tastings are generous, and the tour’s pace allows plenty of time to savor each sip and learn. Many mention it as a highlight of their trip, emphasizing the spontaneity and authenticity of the experience.
Bottom Line: For wine connoisseurs and foodies, this tour provides a rich, educational, and flavorful day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Paestum
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, time, and budget. For a quick introduction, the Paestum City Orientation Tour hits the mark. If cheese is your passion, the Mozzarella Experience offers a delightful hands-on encounter. Wine lovers should look at the Cilento Wine Tour, while those craving adventure might opt for the Paragliding Flight.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the sailing and e-bike experiences provide active ways to enjoy the landscape. Cultural travelers will appreciate the spiritual tour of Cilento villages, and dedicated wine enthusiasts might find the professional sommelier tasting the most rewarding.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like paragliding or wine tours, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Paestum offers a remarkable variety of tours and experiences that go beyond just exploring ruins. Whether you want a quick cultural snapshot, a cheese and wine tasting, or an adventurous flight over ancient temples, there’s something for every traveler. The City Orientation Tour is perfect for first-timers, while the Mozzarella Experience delights those who want to taste authentic regional products. For the thrill-seekers, soaring over Paestum in a powered paraglider guarantees a memory you won’t forget.
With such a rich selection, think about what excites you most—be it history, food, or adventure—and choose accordingly. Book early to secure your spot in these popular experiences, and prepare for a trip full of authentic flavors, scenic beauty, and captivating stories.