In the Footsteps of St. Augustine

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Rome

Benvenuti in Italia! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager as you arrive in the timeless city of Rome, where centuries of history, faith, and culture come alive around every corner. Begin your adventure with a deeply moving walking tour led by your tour manager. Stop first to admire the powerful architecture, sacred relics, and rich spiritual heritage of the Basilica of St. John in Lateran. As the oldest and highest-ranking papal basilica in the world, it is often called the “Mother Church of Rome.” Then prepare for a moment of reflection and devotion as you climb the Scala Sancta, or Holy Stairs. These 28 white marble steps are believed to have been walked by Jesus during His Passion to Pontius Pilate's praetorium in Jerusalem, and then later brought to Rome by St. Helena. Following ancient tradition, pilgrims climb the stairs on their knees, in silence and prayer.

Day 3: Rome

This morning a local expert accompanies you through the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, whose awe-inspiring ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo primarily depict nine scenes from the Book of Genesis. Then continue into St. Peter's Basilica, considered one of the greatest works of Renaissance architecture as well as one of the holiest Catholic shrines. These are timed entrances, meaning you'll breeze right by the long lines facing other tourists. Next, discover the lesser-known Church of Sant’Anna inside Vatican City, an intimate parish that is rich in history and offers a greater connection to the Vatican's spiritual legacy. In the afternoon, deepen your experience further by attending Holy Mass. This is followed by an enriching conversation with a religious expert who will offer personal insights into the lives, faith and traditions of the Vatican community. In the evening, try your hand in the Italian culinary arts with a pizza making lesson and dinner. Pay close attention to the chef's presentation on how to lay out the dough, top it with ingredients in the Roman style and finish it off in the oven before enjoying your pizza for dinner.

Day 4: Rome

Feel the extraordinary spiritual energy of the Vatican today as you attend the noon Papal Blessing in St. Peter’s Square (pending availability and subject to last minute cancellation). In the afternoon, your expert local guide shows you more of Rome’s highlights, beginning in Piazza Navona. Marvel at this vibrant square’s three stunning fountains, including Bernini’s masterful Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, then visit the Baroque gem of Sant'Agnese in Agone Church on its western side. Stroll along cobbled streets to view the Pantheon, an architectural wonder that has stood the test of time, before visiting the nearby Basilica of Sant'Agostino. This quiet, hidden gem was once the seat of the Augustinian General Curia and is home to the tomb of St. Monica, mother of St. Augustine. Walk from there to the elegant Spanish Steps and then end the tour at Santa Maria del Popolo, a powerful site where Pope Innocent IV called upon hermetic groups to unify and form the Augustinian Order. Tonight we'll provide restaurant vouchers and suggestions for our favorite trattorias so you can dine like (and with) the Roman locals.

Day 5: Florence

After breakfast, journey north to Siena, one of Italy's best-preserved hill towns. A walking tour shows you the famous Piazza del Campo and includes entrance to the green and white marbled Duomo. Marvel at the Pinturicchio frescoes in the cathedral’s stunning Piccolomini Library and take in breathtaking views from the dramatic Facciatone. Then explore the medieval fortified village of San Gimignano, famed for its beautiful tall towers. Discover the hidden treasure trove of art inside the Church of Sant’Agostino and meet with an Augustinian Friar who will share the inspiring story and enduring values of the Order. Today’s final destination is Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance.

Day 6: Florence

This morning’s walking tour with a local guide shows you Florence’s rich artistic heritage. Start at the historic Church of Ognissanti to admire Botticelli’s stunning fresco, Saint Augustine in His Study. Then marvel at the iconic Duomo, Ghiberti's famous Baptistry Doors and the Piazza della Signoria—the political center of this Renaissance city. After strolling across the Arno River on the famous Ponte Vecchio, visit the Basilica of Santo Spirito to see its remarkable wooden crucifix crafted by a young Michelangelo. Later this afternoon, you’ll breeze by the crowds with a timed entrance to the Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. As you explore today, keep an eye out for that special trattoria you might want to come back to. Tonight you'll be able to dine like (and with) the locals using our insider tips and restaurant vouchers.

Day 7: Milan Area

Drive to countryside around Modena this morning and enjoy a Balsamic vinegar tasting. Visit a four-generation farm and production facility to learn about the family's process for making and aging the famed Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena before tasting a few of the varietals, and delighting in an authentic, flavorful lunch paired with exceptional local products. Continue your journey to Pavia and visit the historic Basilica of San Pietro in Ciel d'Oro, the final resting place of St. Augustine. Experience a moment of reflection by attending Mass in this spiritual and architectural treasure. Then arrive in the Milan area in time for dinner.

Day 8: Milan Area

Start the day with a guided sightseeing tour of Italy’s fashion capital. Visit the massive Duomo, including access to the terraces on the cathedral's roof from which you can see as far as the Alps through a forest of spires on a clear day. Then step inside the historic Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, one of Milan’s oldest and most captivating religious sites. Founded by St. Ambrose in the 4th century, this Romanesque-style Basilica is said to be where St. Augustine was converted and baptized by St. Ambrose during his time in Milan. Explore its ancient mosaics, majestic architecture, and other treasures that echo with stories of early Christianity and theological inspiration. After this moving cultural experience, the remainder of the day is yours to explore more at your own pace before you conclude your tour with a delicious dinner.

Day 9: Departure

Depart for the USA.

Note regarding departure date: Thursday or Friday departures are required in order to be in Rome for the Sunday Papal Blessing.