Sustainability in Italy

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday March 29: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Tuesday March 30: Rome

Benvenuti a Roma! Arrive in the Eternal City—so named because Romans thought it would endure forever—and meet your ACIS Tour Manager. After dropping off your bags, begin your Italian adventure by practicing your language skills as you order un cono gelato or enjoy people-watching in one of the city’s stunning piazzas. Unlimited public transport is included with your stay for easy and environmentally conscious travel around the city. (D)

Day 3, Wednesday March 31: Rome

Start your day with a guided tour 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. Your ticket also permits entrance to the nearby Roman Forum if your group has time. This afternoon, find nature within the city at an enchanting community-run urban garden focused on biodiversity and regenerative agriculture. Participate in a beekeeping workshop where you’ll be guided through the importance and intricacies of this age-old craft by a local apiarist, and taste some of the honey. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday April 1: Rome

Begin today with an organized visit to the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. You’ll hear about their mission and pivotal role in addressing global food insecurity, hunger and malnutrition, discuss sustainability challenges in food supply, and explore this specialized agency’s approach to these problems. After time in the afternoon to explore more at your own pace, tour the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, the spiritual heart of Christianity. Your ACIS audio guide will bring to life the history, architecture, and artistic masterpieces of this iconic Vatican City landmark. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday April 2: Tuscany

Depart Rome for Tuscany and enjoy taking in the varied landscapes of the Italian countryside. Stop for a delicious farm-to-table lunch, where you’ll savor dishes crafted from organic, local ingredients and discuss the sustainability impact of sourcing food from the immediate area. Then arrive this afternoon at Biancane Nature Park, an extraordinary place where you can explore and learn about the unique geothermal phenomena of this region. Your dive into the world of renewable energy continues at the Geothermal Museum in Larderello, where you will gain a deeper understanding of how the Earth's natural heat has been used as a resource since Etruscan and medieval days, through to the current challenge of energy for a cleaner, greener future. Proceed to the Volterra area to check into your hotel for the evening. (B,L,D)

Day 6, Saturday April 3: Montecatini

This morning depart for the magnificent city of Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance. During today's sightseeing tour a local guide provides commentary while showing you Brunelleschi's splendid Duomo, Ghiberti's famous Baptistry Doors, Ponte Vecchio, Santa Croce (where many illustrious Italians, including Michelangelo and Galileo, have been buried) and the Piazza della Signoria—the political center of the Renaissance city. Also, breeze by the crowds with your own timed entrance to the Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. In the evening use your ACIS restaurant vouchers and our insider tips to experiment with traditional cuisine and practice your Italian as you dine like (and with) the locals. Arrive after dinner at your hotel in Montecatini. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday April 4: Montecatini

Following breakfast, drive to Prato. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this charming Italian city is renowned for its rich history and especially its textile heritage—the ancient textile district showcases a long tradition of craftsmanship, making it a unique destination for those seeking a blend of history, art, and artisanal excellence. Visit a local textile company that’s been dedicated to sustainability and the circular reuse economy for over 100 years. You’ll explore their innovative approach to fashion, where recycled fabrics are transformed into haute couture garments. Later you’ll revisit the wonders of Tuscan cuisine with a pasta making lesson. Aid the chef in preparing the pasta as you learn about traditional techniques and ingredients, then enjoy dinner. (B,D)

Day 8, Monday April 5: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)