Benevento might not be as famous as Rome or Florence, but it offers some surprisingly authentic and engaging ways to experience its local charm. Whether you’re into food, history, or outdoor adventures, Benevento’s tours provide a genuine slice of Campanian life. Personally, I love the olive grove picnic—it combines stunning scenery, local flavors, and a chance to relax in nature just minutes from the city. The brewery tour also caught my eye, offering a behind-the-scenes look at craft beer-making paired with regional snacks, making for a fun and flavorful day. And for those craving a more active outing, the horseback riding through Cusano Mutri lets you connect with the landscape in a totally different way. Each of these experiences showcases Benevento’s authentic local culture and natural beauty.
Quick Overview
Benevento’s tours cover a range of interests, from rural food experiences (picnic among olive groves) to craft beer tasting (brewery visit) and outdoor riding adventures (horseback tour). Whether you want a peaceful picnic, a lively drink tasting, or a scenic ride, there’s something to suit your style and schedule. Below are the three top choices, each offering something unique.
1. Benevento: picnic among the olive groves of the Sannio and tour of the estate
For those who want to experience authentic Campania in a relaxed, rural setting, this picnic tour is a standout. It offers a wonderful chance to stroll through a 50-hectare estate filled with vineyards, olive groves, and wheat fields. The estate’s owners are passionate about sharing local traditions and farm life, with farm animals roaming freely in the fields—an authentic peek into farm life in Sannio. The highlight is the picnic among the olive trees, where you’ll enjoy regional delicacies and IGT wine, all served in a peaceful natural setting just a few minutes from Benevento.
The tour begins at V. Monte Serrato, 60, with a guided walk through the estate, giving you insight into local agriculture and rural practices. After the walk, you’ll break for a regional picnic that includes local cheeses, bread, and seasonal produce, paired with local wine. The experience is perfect for travelers looking to relax outdoors and indulge in simple, authentic flavors. The duration is about two hours, making it a manageable way to enjoy nature while learning about traditional farming. Visitors frequently note the tranquility and genuine flavor of this experience, with a 4.5-star rating reflecting high satisfaction.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, authentic taste of Campania’s countryside with good food and scenic views, this picnic and estate tour is hard to beat.
2. Benevento: visit and tasting at a brewery in Apollosa
For those who prefer a more modern, flavorful experience, the brewery tour (visit and tasting) offers a fascinating glimpse into craft beer production just outside Benevento. This 3-hour experience is led by a master brewer who shares insights into the brewing process, machinery, and the specific techniques used to craft regional beers. It’s a hands-on tour that often includes witnessing an actual production stage if your visit coincides with brewing days.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to taste different craft beers paired with local cheeses and snacks, turning a simple brewery visit into a full sensory experience. The tasting routes are carefully curated to showcase regional flavors, making this particularly appealing for beer enthusiasts or anyone curious about Italy’s burgeoning craft beer scene. The guide’s expertise shines through, and the tasting is both educational and delicious. With a 4.5-star rating, visitors find it a fun, engaging way to explore local products beyond the usual wine and olive oil.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for beer lovers or travelers seeking a lively, flavorful experience combined with insights into local brewing traditions.
3. Benevento: Horseback Riding Tour with Aperitif
If you’re after a Scenic outdoor adventure, this horseback riding tour through Cusano Mutri and the Matese National Park is a terrific option. It’s a great way to see the unspoiled landscapes of Sannio, riding through beech and chestnut woods, along river trails, and across sunny clearings. The tour lasts about an hour, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and includes a safety briefing and guidance from experienced riders.
What really makes this ride special is the natural setting—crossing a river, feeling the splash of water beneath the hooves, and stopping for an outdoor aperitif featuring regional Sannio products. The combination of gentle riding and scenic views makes it a delightful activity for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy being active outdoors. The tour concludes back at SP12, 48, with a relaxed, authentic experience of the local countryside.
While the reviews do not specify a star rating, the tour’s emphasis on connection with nature and regional foods makes it a memorable choice for outdoor lovers. It’s a short, affordable adventure that pairs physical activity with culinary enjoyment.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a scenic outdoor excursion combined with regional snacks and a taste of local life, this horseback ride offers a refreshing perspective.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these experiences, consider your interests and what you most want from your time in Benevento. If you prefer relaxing in nature with delicious local food, the olive grove picnic (see details) is perfect. Love craft beer? The brewery tour (more info) offers a lively, educational tasting. Craving outdoor activity and scenic views? The horseback riding (check it out) combines nature, gentle exercise, and regional snacks.
Also, think about your schedule and budget. The picnic is a relatively short and affordable experience, ideal for a half-day escape. The brewery visit adds a bit more time and is perfect for a late morning or afternoon. The horseback tour is brief but active—and suitable for most fitness levels—making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. Checking availability in advance ensures a smooth experience, whether you want a peaceful picnic or a lively tasting.
Final Thoughts
Benevento offers a surprising variety of tours that highlight its local charm beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you choose the tranquil estate picnic, the craft beer adventure, or the scenic horseback ride, each experience provides a meaningful way to connect with the region. For food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, Benevento’s tours promise genuine moments away from the crowds. If I had to pick, the picnic is my top recommendation for a relaxing afternoon, but the brewery tour offers an excellent taste of local craftsmanship, and the horseback ride is perfect for a spirited outdoor day. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic Benevento experiences.