Italy Uncovered: From Rome to the Hidden South
Program Dates: April 16-24, 2027
Melrose Program Leaders: Dawn Teixeira (dteixeira@melroseschools.com) and Asha Weider (aweider@melroseschools.com)
Day 1 – Depart for Italy
Your Italian adventure begins! Meet your group at Boston Logan Airport and board your overnight flight to Italy. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
Day 2 – Welcome to Rome & Orientation - Overnight in Rome
Arrive in Rome and meet your local Program Director. After transferring to your hotel, enjoy a relaxed orientation walk through the city to take in your first glimpses of the Eternal City. Once checked in, unpack, and prepare for a welcome dinner and officially kick off your time in Italy.
Day 3 – St. Peter’s, Campo de’ Fiori & the Jewish Quarter - Overnight in Rome
This morning, explore Vatican City with a local expert. Visit the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most important churches in the world, and take time to experience the beauty and history of St. Peter’s Square. Continue to Campo de’ Fiori, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore one of Rome’s most vibrant piazzas. This afternoon, discover the historic Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe. Visit the Great Synagogue of Rome and learn about the rich history, culture, and resilience of Rome’s Jewish community. In the evening, take a group walk to visit the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, where you’ll experience these iconic landmarks beautifully illuminated after dark.
Day 4 – Ancient Rome & Gladiator Experience - Overnight in Rome
Step back in time with a guided tour of Ancient Rome, including the legendary Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Then, head to a gladiator training center to take part in an interactive Gladiator Games experience, where you’ll learn about Roman combat and even try on replica armor. In the evening, explore the Pantheon and soak up the lively atmosphere at Piazza Navona.
Day 5 – Sorrento & the Island of Capri – Overnight in Sorrento Area
Depart Rome this morning and travel southto the beautiful Sorrento Peninsula. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of Sorrento’s charming historic center before having free time for lunch. This afternoon, board a ferry to the breathtaking island of Capri, where you’ll have time to explore its picturesque streets, lively piazzas, elegant boutiques, and spectacular coastal views. Return by ferry to Sorrento this evening for a group dinner.
Day 6 – Matera’s Sassi & Underground Wonders – Overnight in Alberobello Area
Depart the Sorrento area and head east to Matera, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With a local guide, explore the fascinating Sassi cave dwellings and ancient rock-carved churches that give this hillside city its otherworldly charm. Continue underground to visit Palombaro Lungo, Matera’s remarkable subterranean cistern, where you’ll discover the ingenious water system that sustained the city for centuries. After free time for lunch, continue to the fairytale town of Alberobello, where you’ll check into your hotel and settle in for the night.
Day 7 – Trulli Village & Ostuni Excursion - Overnight inAlberobello Area
Spend the morning exploring the charming trulli village of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. In the afternoon, head to the hilltop town of Ostuni, known as “The White City” for its bright limestone buildings and winding alleys. Tonight, take part in an interactive Italian cooking class and learn to make local specialties for your dinner!
Day 8 – Adriatic Coast, Boat Cruise & Farewell Dinner - Overnight in Alberobello Area
On your final full day in Italy, visit the stunning seaside town of Polignano a Mare. Set out on a scenic boat cruise along the Adriatic coast, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of the cliffs, caves, and turquoise waters that make this region so iconic. Afterward, enjoy time to explore, shop, or simply relax by the sea. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the trip and reflect on your favorite moments with new friends.
Day 9 – Departure from Bari
Transfer to Bari Airport for your flight home, bringing back memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of Italy’s incredible culture and history.
What’s Included:
Roundtrip Airfare from Boston
Accommodations
Full Time Local Program Director
Transportation to Included Activities
Breakfast and Dinner Daily
All Attractions and Activities as Noted on Itinerary
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour Support
All Taxes and Fees
Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings
