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ITALIAN ODYSSEY
Rome, Florence, and Venice
Italy is calling! Discover delicious food, stunning architecture and rich history on this authentic Italian adventure through three of the country’s most impressive cities: Rome, Florence and Venice.
Program Overview
Discover the timeless beauty of Italy, where every city tells a story rich in history, culture and tradition. Start your journey in Rome, where ancient wonders blend seamlessly with modern energy in Italy’s heart and soul. Explore world-renowned sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City, while diving into the history that has shaped civilizations.
In Florence, take in the artistry of the Renaissance. Climb the Duomo, and let the golden hues of Tuscany’s rolling hills inspire a deeper connection to the region’s beauty and cultural significance.
No trip to Italy is complete without visiting Venice, a city like no other. Wander through its intricate canals, glide past iconic gondoliers and marvel at the architectural wonders of this city built on water—each turn revealing something new to discover.
Throughout your adventure, immerse yourself in Italian culture. Savor world-famous cuisine, connect with locals and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Italy’s heritage so enduring and impactful.
On GLA’s Italy: Italian Odyssey program you will:
- Learn the age-old craft of creating your own Venetian carnival mask under the guidance of a skilled artisan
- Master the art of making pizza the authentic Italian way
- Take a scenic boat ride to the charming islands of Murano and Burano
- Visit Vatican City and discover the history of this magnificent site
- Wander the awe-inspiring Colosseum and toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain
- Enjoy three nights in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, staying in a medieval villa nestled on a charming farm. Savor dishes crafted from fresh ingredients grown right on the property!
Program Menu
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ITALIAN ODYSSEY
Sample Itinerary
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to Rome! Our GLA staff will meet you at the airport in their GLA t-shirts. Today, we’ll settle into our accommodation, connect with fellow travelers and staff, and go over what to expect during orientation. Before resting, we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Days 2-4: Rome & Vatican City
The Italian adventure begins in Rome, Italy’s heart and capital. Start with a walking food tour of Rome’s iconic sites and culinary delights, getting to know the city and Italian culture through its dishes! See history come to life with tours to the Vatican City, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum. Try your hand at pizza-making, crafting your own creation, and check off bucket-list spots like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Afterward, unwind and relax with fellow travelers, sharing laughter and good times. Each night, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at local restaurants for the full experience!
Days 5-7: Tuscany, Italy
Slow down and embrace the Tuscan lifestyle, staying in a medieval villa on a charming farm. Relax by the pool, hike in the nearby forest, and spend time reflecting on your time in Italy while bonding with the group over games.
Take a day trip to Florence, where you’ll climb the Duomo for stunning panoramic views, enjoy a gelato, and explore local museums and galleries. The following day, we’ll volunteer in the community, focusing on the area’s most pressing needs. Afterward, enjoy some souvenir shopping before embarking on the final leg of our Italian adventure!
Days 8-9: Venice, Italy
On to the final leg of our journey! Depart Tuscany for the enchanting city of Venice, famous for its canals and bridges. Explore the Doge’s Palace and the elegant clock tower with a local guide, then stroll through the historic San Marco Square. Take a boat trip to the charming islands of Murano and Burano, known for their glassmaking, craftsmanship, and vibrant, picturesque houses.
Navigate Venice’s canals aboard a traditional gondola, then participate in a private Venetian mask-making workshop to create your own unique piece of this captivating city. End your adventure with a sunset cruise, witnessing Venice’s beauty as the golden rays dance on the waters—an unforgettable finale to your journey.
Day 10: Departure
Before we know it, our Italian adventure will come to an end. Head to the airport with incredible memories, new friends, and a newfound confidence that will last a lifetime. GLA staff will accompany you to the airport and assist with check-in. As you settle in for your journey home, take a moment to reflect on the sights, people, and places that made this trip unforgettable. We’ll see you on your next adventure!
Program Map
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ITALIAN ODYSSEY
Community Service
Participate in a variety of activities with local organizations, tailored to the community’s current needs. These may include environmental cleanups along rivers and parks, or volunteering at a shelter to support individuals experiencing homelessness.
Hands-on Learning
Experience Italy’s rich culture through immersive, hands-on experiences that bring the country’s history and traditions to life. Craft your own Venetian carnival mask under the guidance of a local artisan, learning each step of this centuries-old art. Master the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine as you roll out fresh pasta and perfect your pizza-making skills. Each activity offers a deeper connection to Italy’s art, history, and way of life.
Adventure
Get ready to feel like a true explorer with adventure activities designed to immerse you in Italy’s most iconic cities. Walk the ancient streets of Rome as you explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum. In Florence, wander through narrow streets filled with Renaissance masterpieces and architectural wonders. Glide through Venice’s canals by gondola, experiencing the city from its most famous vantage point. Every experience on a GLA trip brings a new kind of adventure, offering a deeper look into Italy’s culture and urban life.
Lodging & Meals
This is a travel-intensive program. You’ll stay at three different hotels across Italy, with rooming always shared in double or triple rooms, each with a private bathroom.
Welcome to one of the best food capitals of the world! In cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, we will enjoy fresh pasta like spaghetti or lasagna, wood-fired pizza with authentic toppings, and creamy gelato in a wide range of flavors. Street food like panini sandwiches and arancini (fried rice balls) are perfect for quick bites while exploring. Italy’s rich food culture ensures that every meal, from pasta to pastries, will be a memorable experience for any teen traveler.
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Dates & Tuition
10-Day Program
2025 Session Dates
June 30 – July 09, 2025
Program Details
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses
Airport pick-up/drop-off
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
An application fee and $600 deposit are required
to hold your spot on-program.
Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
“This trip was nothing but amazing. It not only gave me new learning opportunities, but it forged memories I will remember forever. I love the people I went with and adore the times we had. This trip is something I will never forget and I am so lucky to be given this opportunity.”
Sophia T. | Student | 2023
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