Insider's Roman Italy

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: Sorrento

Arrive in Rome, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and drive south to the delightful seaside town of Sorrento. Orange and lemon groves abound.

Day 3: Sorrento

Board a high-speed hydrofoil to cross the Bay of Naples to Capri, the Island of Dreams. Upon arriving on the island, take the funicular past subtropical gardens to the main square. There is time to wander through the narrow lanes and shop in the tiny artisan stores that line the square. Entrance to the Roman ruins of Emperor Tiberius's Villa Jovis is included. Then return to Sorrento where a Tarantella dance lesson with local experts will teach you the steps of this southern Italian folk dance.

Day 4: Sorrento

Today's adventure starts by exploring a working mozzarella farm and learning first-hand about how this creamy cheese is made, from ingredients to production to taste. A scenic drive then takes you along breathtaking coastline to Pompeii where a local guide provides commentary as you explore this town that was preserved under 23 feet of volcanic ash by the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Return to Sorrento and enjoy an evening stroll around the charming Piazza Tasso after dinner.

Day 5: Rome

We head first to Naples today and make a stop at the National Archaeological Museum where a local guide will take us on a tour of the trove of Italy's ancient treasures housed at this fine museum. Then dive into the many layers of history beneath our feet with a guided Naples Underground tour before heading north to Rome.

Day 6: Rome

Rome is called “The Eternal City” because the ancient Romans believed that no matter what empires rose and fell, Rome would endure forever. Morning sightseeing introduces you to this ancient city. With a local guide, go inside the iconic and historic Colosseum (your timed reservation ensures no waiting in line) and learn the many stories of this nearly 2,000-year-old Roman landmark that's considered one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world. Then continue with your guide to the adjoining Roman Forum, the social, political and commercial hub of the Roman Empire. We'll also visit the Pantheon and see the obelisk-topped fountain in Piazza della Rotonda. Tonight we'll provide restaurant vouchers and suggestions for our favorite trattorias so you can dine like (and with) the locals. We also introduce you to the fine Italian art of the passeggiata with an evening stroll around the Piazza Navona.

Day 7: Rome

Today's panoramic drive of the city is a great introduction to the many phases of Roman history. Our local expert accompanies you through the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. The best part is that these are timed entrances, meaning you'll breeze right by the long lines facing other tourists. This afternoon you may choose an optional guided excursion to Ostia Antica to see its 4th century BC Roman ruins, previously buried under mud and sand until excavations at the beginning of the last century. 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 of a perfect pie, top it with ingredients in the Roman style and finish it off in the oven. You'll work in teams to assemble and cook your own authentic, brick oven pizza. Finally, we'll say goodbye to Rome (and a fantastic week in Italy) with an evening passeggiata to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

Day 8: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the culture and wonders of la dolce vita with an extra night in Rome, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager and a vigorous (and fun!) experience training to be an ancient Roman gladiator.

Enhance your Italian experience with a two-night extension to Florence by high-speed train—discover the Renaissance city's rich heritage, art and architecture with included sightseeing and entrance to the Accademia.