Italy 2022

6 Action Packed Days

During this 6-day trip, you will explore one of the oldest botanical medicinal gardens in the world, tour stunning vineyards, and enjoy educational experiences rooted in the unsurpassed culinary experiences of the region.

Intimate Groups

Each step of the way, you’ll enjoy one-on-one time with Franklin Health researchers Dr Jessie Hawkins, Christy Hires, and Elizabeth Dunne. Tour capacity is limited to 24 total people.

Continuing Education

Not only does this Study Abroad trip provide you with memories that last a lifetime, you will earn a continuing education certificate to celebrate your accomplishment.

Pandemic Safety

Our Study Tours have been completely revamped to ensure you are able to enjoy the sights and educational experiences as safely as possible. Be aware that some countries may have new entry requirements which may include covid testing, a CDC vaccine card (or equivalent), or similar protocols.

Plane & Personal Expenses

All travel inside of Italy is also included in the cost, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views knowing that everything is covered! Please be aware that registration does not include your airfare to and from Italy or any personal expenses.

Upgrades Available

Registration includes double occupancy accommodations. If you prefer single occupancy, there is a $400 surcharge. You are given the option to upgrade to single occupancy after registration and will pay the surcharge separately.

Free Time

The schedule is packed with unique adventures. However, we usually conclude around 6:30pm and you are free to explore the cities after that time. Each destination is safe for evening exploration and the sun does not set until close to 9pm, providing you plenty of daylight to enjoy the sights.

Dietary Accommodations

We can accommodate gluten-free diets and vegetarian diets. Italy has a fantastic reputation for accommodating dietary restrictions and you will still be able to enjoy all of the luxurious food the region is known for, including gluten free lasagna, pizza, pasta, and even crepes!

Traveling w/ Spouse or Partner

The more the merrier! Spouses and partners are welcome to join us.

You will be sent a "Getting to Know You" form after registration. This form will ask you about roommate preferences; be sure to indicate your spouse/partner on that form.

Sunday June 5

Our tour begins at 1pm local time at the Venice airport (Marco Polo / VCE). After a brief meet and greet, you’ll be transported to the luxurious mountain town of Cavalese in Northern Italy.

Day One is focused on helping you slowly immerse yourself into the luxuries of Italian charm with an open air educational session with stunning views and an indulgent Italian dinner.

Monday June 6

After some morning coffee and a light breakfast, you will head just up the road to meet Professor Marco Valussi. You’ll enjoy a tour of his artisan distillery, complete with a private class on essential oil distillation, theory, and practice.

After a large relaxing lunch, you'll enjoy some pampering spa time before traveling to Padua, a town steeped in history and culture.

Tuesday June 7

Tuesday transitions to an emphasis on the deep history of botanical medicine in Italy, focusing on herbalism and led by Professor Marco Valussi. You'll enjoy a private guided tour of the ancient botanical gardens in Padua, a UNESCO World Heritage site originally established in 1545.

After lunch, you will enjoy a private guided tour of the anatomical theatre in Padua, dating to the 1500s, this is the first operating room in the world. After a relaxing dinner, you'll enjoy some time to explore Padua before settling in for the night.

Wednesday June 8

On Wednesday you'll travel from Padua, through the rural Italian countryside into the powerful Renaissance-era city of Florence. You'll arrive just in time for a traditional Italian lunch featuring all the luxurious food Tuscany has to offer.

After lunch, you'll have a few hours to settle into your new accommodations before a walking tour of key historic sites wrapping up at the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy. This is the world's oldest still-operating pharmacy, established in the early 1200s. Today this historic location still curates fragrances, herbal remedies, and healing products, just as it has for centuries.

Thursday June 9

Thursday is all about olives and grapes, perhaps the most recognized products of Italy. Our guides will whisk you away to the stunning vineyards of Chianti for private vineyard tours and exclusive tastings of freshly pressed olive oil and a range of Italian wines.

The morning begins with a private tour of a historic winery, followed by a picnic lunch in the picturesque vineyards. After a brief stop for gelato in the charming town of Greve, you'll enjoy another vineyard tour, complete with a tasting of neighboring wines and olive oil.

The day concludes with a large farewell dinner and some free time to explore the city after hours. You won’t want to miss the breathtaking views of the Duomo lit up at night.

Friday June 10

The final day of the trip focuses on the food of Tuscany. You'll explore Florentine food markets with a professional chef, learning more about the heritage of Tuscany's prized cuisine. Then you'll be taken to a learning kitchen for a private cooking class featuring some of the foods you just sourced at the market.

this day concludes at 4pm with final goodbyes. You can take a quick train back to Venice to depart from the Marco Polo airport or continue your travels south towards Rome on your own.