TRENDING
Japan Greece Costa Rica
Italy Fiji Korea
← All Programs

Italy

Italy: Tuscan Trails and Roman Wonders

12 days | Ages 14-18 | Summer 2026 | Fully Supervised | 4.9 on GoOverseas | International flights not included

1 / 9


Share This:
Text a Friend
Questions? Call (440) 975-9691 for an admissions counselor

Join us on this unforgettable journey to Italy, exploring the great city of Rome, the Tuscan countryside, and the Italian Riviera. Discover old landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican, learn Italian cooking in Tuscany, and participate in Italian farming. Walk together along the coastal villages of Cinque Terre with your new Rustic friends.This program offers the best Italian experience and it’s only waiting for you!

Program Tuition

$5,395

Excluding flights.
Financial aid and scholarships available.

Summer sessions typically fill by March

No departures scheduled

Scott Ingram

Scott Ingram

Director of Admissions

At Rustic since 2018

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 12-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Depart for Italy

At the gateway airport in the US you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Italy. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight. Enjoy an overnight flight to Rome and get rested for the journey ahead!
2-3

Welcome to Rome!

Start your journey exploring the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum, where history comes alive in the heart of the Eternal City. Next, marvel at the artistic splendor of the Vatican Museum and St. Peter's Basilica, and the iconic Trevi Fountain, where you can toss a coin and make a wish. Cap off your Roman adventure with a delightful dinner at a local trattoria, savoring authentic Italian cuisine and enjoying the flavors of Rome in a charming setting.
4-5

Tuscany Countryside

Settle into your idyllic Villa in the Tuscan countryside for the next nine days. Begin your stay by relaxing in the villa’s comfort, soaking in the scenic surroundings and local charm. Over the next two days, dive into the flavors of Italy with a food tour while we explore the historic towns of Pisa and Lucca, marveling at Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower and Lucca’s well-preserved medieval architecture.
6-7

The Art of Olive Oil & Florence

We will learn the art of crafting authentic Italian dishes with a hands-on pasta cooking class. Then, immerse yourself in the cultural splendor of Florence, exploring iconic landmarks such as the majestic Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio.
8-9

Sustainable Farming

We will have hands-on service work at a local farm, where you’ll engage in agricultural activities and learn about sustainable farming practices. This immersive experience offers valuable insights into the region’s agricultural processes and the importance of environmental stewardship. Discover the enchanting Cinque Terre, where you'll explore five picturesque coastal villages. Enjoy the sandy beaches of Monterosso, stroll through the colorful streets of Vernazza and Manarola, and take in the stunning views from Corniglia. Conclude your day in Riomaggiore, soaking up the scenic beauty and charm of this iconic Italian coastline.
10-11

Cinque Terre

Start your day with a delightful morning stroll through the local town, sampling fresh, warm pastries from charming bakeries. Afterward we will return to the basehouse for a relaxing afternoon by the pool to cool off from the Tuscan sun. We will have an engaging interactive pizza making class, mastering the art of true Italian pizza. On our final day we will dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and embark on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. Participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.
12

Ciao, Italy!

Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure and say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.

Total: 12 calendar days / 11 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

7:1 Student-to-Leader Ratio

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Gender-Separated

Rooms with staff on site

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

Italy

What Do Parents Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

Students join a chaperoned group flight from a U.S. gateway airport. A Rustic Pathways Flight Leader travels with the group. International students arrange independent flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?

Yes. Monthly payment plans are available for all families, and Rustic Pathways offers both need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. Explore scholarships and financial aid

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who's supervising my child?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can I reach my child?

Yes. Students can call, text, or WhatsApp during free time. Parents can reach Rustic Pathways’ 24/7 emergency line at any time.

How will I know they're okay?

Parents receive daily photo updates throughout the program from staff on the ground.

What is the phone/device policy?

Students may bring phones but cannot use them during group activities or meals. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group and how old are the participants?

Groups are typically 12-20 students per session. Students are ages 14-18, with most being 15-17.

Can international (non-U.S.) students join this program?

Yes. Students from 50+ countries join Rustic Pathways programs each year. International students book their own flights and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup.

Do students come with friends, or on their own?

Most students travel solo without knowing anyone. Program Leaders run ice-breakers on day one, and friendships form quickly. Friends are welcome to enroll together.

What is the accommodation like?

Students stay in locally operated lodging with shared rooms accommodating 2-4 students. Accommodations include private bathrooms and common areas.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Roommate requests are accepted during enrollment.

Program Details

Will my child have unsupervised time?

Students have structured independence during free-time blocks with staff always nearby. There is no unsupervised time in public areas.

Can you accommodate dietary needs & food allergies?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies are accommodated with advance notice. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment.

How much spending money?

$150-200 recommended for souvenirs and incidentals. Tipping is included in the program fee.

Do we need a visa?

Visa requirements vary by passport and destination. Contact a Rustic Pathways travel advisor for guidance specific to your student’s nationality.

Support

What if my child gets homesick?

Homesickness is common in the first few days. Rustic Pathways staff are trained to support students through it. Read more about managing homesickness

Do you support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students and works with families to provide appropriate support. Learn about Rustic Pathways’ approach to inclusion

What Should Parents Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.

Italy offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.

Meals: All meals are included. Local cuisine is featured throughout the program. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice.

What is the refund policy?
View terms & conditions

Included:

  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support

Not included:

  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

Italy Europe 2026
Get Notified