Get out and explore! Excursions are offered for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered between two to three excursions and summer study students are typically offered between one to two excursions. You’ll receive a calendar of excursions during orientation; here are a few day and overnight excursions we’ve offered in the past.
Pompeii, Sorrento, and Capri
This two-day excursion begins with an exploration of the archaeological remains of the ancient town of Pompeii. Preserved by the ash and lava spewed out by Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D., Pompeii offers a snapshot of ancient Roman life. From the frescoes of the House of Vettii (an example of wealthy merchants’ homes) and the central Forum square, to the Baths and the Sacrarium of the Lares, you’ll marvel at Pompeii’s former glamour, now merely dust.
Next we’ll visit the small town of Sorrento, with its narrow alleys and beaches. Known as the pearl of the Gulf of Naples, this scenic village offers views of the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida.
Capri has many nicknames: the Enchanted Island, the Blue Island, the Sleeping Beauty, and the Island of Love. Spend the day exploring the island’s many beautiful sites. Known as a popular holiday destination for the rich and famous, the Isle of Capri caters to visitors with its blend of simplicity, natural beauty, and busy glitz.
The allure of the island views, rocky seashores, and scenic charm will enliven you to investigate their surroundings. Our time on Capri begins with a motorboat trip to the Blue Grotto, a magical place with crystal blue water. The rest of the day, you’ll explore the island’s two towns, Capri and Anacapri, each speckled with designer boutiques, small shops, and hidden wonders.
Florence
Florence, the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, has long attracted tourists with its red-tiled roofs, impressive Cathedral, ornate palaces, and must-see artworks. Today, the city is a thriving center that combines both ancient and modern achievements. Visits to sites such as the Academia (home of Michelangelo’s David), the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio will provide you with a taste of this romantic city.
Venice
(Semester Only)
Built on the water and unique in the world, Venice has a long and intriguing history. Once an economic super-power in the Mediterranean, Venice was long a jumping-off point for traders and explorers departing for the East. From Byzantine domes, mosaics, and paintings to charming piazzas and
light-filled interiors, Venice retains the character that has made it one of the most visited destinations in the world. This three-day excursion includes a visit to Basilica of St. Mark, the Rialto Bridge and market, and the island of Murano with its glass-blowing factories. Don’t miss the unique experience of riding a gondola through the Venice canals!
Assisi
(Semester Only)
Assisi was the birthplace of St. Francis, who founded the Franciscan order in 1208. UNESCO designated the Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi a World Heritage Site in 2000. The lower church has frescoes by the medieval artists Cimabue, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti, while the upper church houses Giotto’s famous scenes of the life of St. Francis.
The Gardens of Ninfa
(Semester Only)
The Gardens of Ninfa take their name from nymphaeum, or place of the nymphs, and are considered to be among the most beautiful in the world. Built atop upon the ruins of an ancient settlement, the gardens are a unique example of an integrated eco-system that combines natural, cultural, and historical elements. The secret of Ninfa’s lush beauty lies in its exceptional microclimate, which allows the growth of local and exotic vegetation species. We’ll visit the gardens when they are in full bloom and finish the day with a tour of a local wine estate, where we’ll uncover the secrets of enology and gastronomy.
Ostia Antica
Ostia Antica, founded by the Romans in the 4th century BC, functioned as Rome’s main port for over 600 years. Romans, foreigners, sailors, and slaves populated the port, making this town an important focal point of defense and trade. This mélange of cultures created an interesting contrast to the rich and upper-class residents of Pompeii. During our visit to Ostia Antica you’ll visit the historical inhabitants’ homes, shops, restaurants and bakery and witness the diversity evident in the shrines, temples, and sanctuaries scattered throughout the area.
Tivoli
Ancient Tibur, just 30 minutes outside of Rome, boasts clean, crisp air in the scenic countryside. Roman aristocrats once frolicked to Tivoli, cementing its reputation as a holiday resort. We’ll visit the famous Villa Adriana, constructed by the Emperor Hadrian who spent his entire life shaping it into one of the largest, most extravagant villas in the Roman Empire. We’ll also tour Villa D’Este; once a Benedictine convent, Cardinal Ippolito d’Este refurbished it into a luxurious villa with splendid gardens and over 40 elaborate fountains, including water-works that activate the musical pipes of an organ.
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