Learning in La Dolce Vita: Italy’s Best Experiences for Student Groups

Extraordinary monuments, ancient archaeology, delicious food and stunning landscapes… Italy has all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip! Begin your student adventure in Rome which is also called the “Eternal City” by the ancient Romans because they believed that no matter what happened in the rest of the world, the city of Rome would always remain standing. Ancient Rome is home to the Colosseum which is perhaps one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. This breathtaking Amphitheater is right in the heart of the city, and once would have accommodated as many as 80,000 spectators. These giant crowds would watch on as the venue played host to everything from epic gladiator fights to public executions. No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to Vatican City. The Vatican Museums house one of the most extensive art collections in the world with famous works by Raphael, Leonardo di Vinci and Michaelangelo, who is famous for creating the impressive ceiling and mural painting of the Last Judgement inside the Sistine Chapel. While in Rome it is essential to tour St. Peter’s Basilica for an exclusive experience that includes a tour of the breathtaking dome and is also the resting home of St. Peter who was the first pope in history. Rome is also home to the Pantheon which is one of the best-preserved ancient structures that was originally built as a temple dedicated to Roman gods but was later converted to a Christian church. Built almost 2000 years ago, this massive structure is still considered an architectural masterpiece as it still boasts the title of having the largest unsupported concrete dome in the world.

If Rome was the center of the Empire, the city of Pompeii, gives students an extraordinary insight into the everyday life of an Ancient Roman city in the 1st century. This ancient Roman city was buried with ash and volcanic debris in 79 AD after a devastating eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius. The archaeological park gives visitors an extraordinary picture of daily life in Ancient Rome, as buildings, artifacts and skeletons remained intact under the layer of volcanic ash for hundreds of years.

Continuing your tour of Italy with a stop in Florence and Tuscany. These wonderful cities focus on art and culture as well as science and technology. Exploring Florence, students will immerse themselves in centuries of art: from the iconic Duomo Cathedral which took nearly 150 years to complete to the craft shops of Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery, home to the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance artworks, including Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”. You can then travel across the picturesque Tuscan countryside to visit the pretty hilltop town of San Miniato, renowned for its white truffles. Students will also have a day to explore the walled city of Lucca with its pretty cobbled stone streets and you’ll get to visit the famous ‘leaning’ tower of Pisa and its cathedral.

Venice is a joy to explore with students. Riding in a gondola is one of the most unique Italian experiences and makes for one of the best ways to see Venice. Take a guided tour of St. Marks Basilica which is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in all of Europe featuring more than 500 columns. The Basilica’s mosaics were created mostly in gold, and include a 13th-century mosaic above the left door that tells a legend about grave-robbers. Wander down the less touristy backstreets and you’ll find tiny canals and little bridges. You’ll also discover beautiful theatrical masks in tiny shops down some of Venice’s backstreets. Stop at Ca’Macana, Sestiere Dorsoduro, you can try on lots of different masks and the shop also offers mask painting workshops for students.

Besides all the different types of pasta and pizza, Italy has many other traditional dishes, including the bruschetta (toasted bread with oil, garlic and salt), the panini (a traditional Italian sandwich), the meat and fish seasoned with spices (such as the famous dishes ‘a la Milanese’), the different cheeses (especially pecorino) and the variety of cold meats (prosciutto and saltimbocca). Gelato is renowned in Italy and the city is filled with homemade ice cream parlors open all year round! The streets in these areas have charming, authentic restaurants with outdoor seating in which students can enjoy a delicious meal while watching the people go by for a true Italian experience.

Although you need a passport to visit, Italy can offer your students a chance to travel abroad and explore this picturesque oasis with some of the most scenic landscapes on earth. From crystal blue seas to ancient towns nestled among the mountainside, there’s no shortage of inspiring sights to behold. From the ancient history and intricate artwork to the beautiful language and delicious cuisine, Italy is a vibrant cultural experience your students won’t soon forget!

Let’s discover the wonders of Italy together! Let’s create an unforgettable educational adventure for your students. Immerse your student group in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you’re looking to travel with your students across the country or around the world, we’re committed to delivering a unique, meaningful experience for you and your students. Let UR Tours and Events be part of your next travel experience.