Highlights of Italy and Greece
Program Dates:
June 26 - July 7, 2024
Enrollment for this program is now closed for Summer 2024. View Summer 2025 Programs!
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Board your overnight flight bound for Athens.
Day 2 - Athens
Afternoon arrival at Athens airport. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, you will be met by your Travel Director. Board your private motor coach and transfer to your hotel. Get your first impressions of Athens during an orientation walk.
Day 3 - Athens
Enjoy a morning guided visit of the city including the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Then view the Agora, followed by a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Later, enjoy an evening of Greek culture. Eat local cuisine while watching local dancers perform to traditional music. You will learn some of the dance steps so that you can participate as well.
Day 4 - Athens
This morning, embark on a day cruise of the Saronic Islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. These islands are known for their art and culture, history and natural beauty. Lunch is included during your cruise.
Did You Know?
The Parthenon was once colorful. Recent tests on the structure revealed shades of blue, red, and green. Over time the stones were bleached in the sunlight, which is why the marble is now white. In fact, traces of pigment on marble buildings all over Greece show that these sites were kaleidoscopic in their colors.
Day 5 - Kalambaka Area
This morning drive to Delphi for a guided visit of the mythical site that was home of the fabled oracle. Also included is the Archaeological Museum, featuring artifacts unearthed during local excavations. Continue the drive north to the Kalambaka area, known for the spectacular Meteora rocks that rise high above the town.
Day 6 - Overnight Ferry
This morning ascend Meteora to see the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site that comprises the local monasteries dating as far back as the 14th century. The visit includes entry to two of the monasteries where you will immerse yourselves in the local ancient religious traditions. Continue to the port city of Igoumenitsa to board the overnight ferry bound for the Italian port of Ancona.
Cradle of the Renaissance
Florence is often referred to as the "cradle of the Renaissance". It was home to the great Renaissance artists Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael; as well as the home to the great astronomer Galileo.
Day 7 - Tuscany
This morning drive to Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance in Italy. A local expert will guide you around the highlights of the city such as Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors, Santa Croce and the beautiful Duomo. Later, visit the Accademia to see the statue of David and other works by Michelangelo. Tonight, continue to the countryside of Tuscany for your overnight.
Day 8 - Tuscany
This morning, visit an organic farm in the Tuscan countryside where you will learn about local agriculture, and help out on the farm. You’ll pick your own produce and learn to make a traditional Italian farm to table lunch (lunch is included). Later, explore the city of Lucca, which is known for it well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling its historic city center and its cobblestone streets, enjoy some free time to shop, and eat your share of gelato.
Day 9 - Rome
Your first stop today is in Assisi where St. Francis founded the Franciscan Friars. Take a walk through the beautiful hilltop town and visit the Basilica to admire the frescoes by Giotto. Later continue to Rome, and enjoy a beautiful evening walk around the Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain.
“At our school we focus on community membership
and independent skills. During our program, our students put their
skills to great use. The students managed to
explore Italy with their peers. They met locals, store owners, and helped to take care of one another. What a great way to experience
Italy!”
— Jillian A., Leader
Day 10 - Rome
This morning a guided tour will introduce you to the sites of ancient Rome, you’ll see the Forum and Colosseum - one of the most impressive sights in Rome. The building was completed in 80 A.D. and at its peak held 87,000 spectators. This afternoon, step back in time, put on your own gladiator gear, and participate in Gladiator Games at Castrum Legionis.
Day 11 - Rome
A local guide will introduce you to the smallest state in the world, Vatican City, situated in Rome. This is the home of the Pope but also home to almost 1,000 other residents. You’ll visit Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter's Basilica. Later, you’ll take an interactive cooking lesson on the art and tradition of tiramisu making. Tonight, join our farewell dinner!
Day 12
Transfer to the airport for return flight to the USA.
Join this Program!
Students will join other teens from across the United States, accompanied by experienced, passionate and globally-minded U.S. certified educators. These inspiring leaders guide, nurture and mentor students on their journey to Global Citizenship.
What’s Included:
Roundtrip Airfare
Accommodations
Teacher Leaders
Full Time Local Program Director
Transportation to Included Activities
Breakfast and Dinner Daily, 2 Lunches
All Attractions and Activities
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour Support
All Taxes and Fees
Global Citizen Certificate
Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings and Seminars
