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Italy

Bookbag Tours
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July 7 - 16, 2026

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Trip Description

Join us for a stress-free travel experience! Our trip leaders will be with you every step of the way, from meeting you at the airport on arrival day to ensuring a safe transfer on departure day, and everything in between. We’ve got you covered!

Calling all adventure-seeking educators!  Have you ever dreamed of turning your next vacation into an unforgettable learning experience? Well, dream no more, because we're thrilled to present the ultimate Italian escapade crafted exclusively for our fantastic teachers! Embark on a journey that blends the historic charm of Rome, the artistic wonders of Florence, and the enchanting canals of Venice into a curriculum of pure delight. Get ready to trade chalk for gelato, textbooks for Michelangelo, and classroom walls for the stunning landscapes. Join us on this educational expedition that promises to inspire, rejuvenate, and indulge the wanderlust in you. It's not just a trip; it's a Bellissima odyssey through the heart of Italy!

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Note: Itinerary Subject to Change

Professional Development: Learning about a new culture and making connections with educators provides an authentic learning experience for you to reflect on and bring back to your classroom. 

Terrain: LOTS of stairs and uneven walking paths

Activity Level:  Moderate to High (Due to High Temperatures. Yes, It will be HOT!) 

School Visit:  No

PD Level: Basic. Please note the magic of these trips is the time you spend with fellow educators on your trip engaged in ORGANIC PD, so you really get out of it what you put into it. That said, because this trip does not have a great deal of formal PD or school visits, it is considered a Basic Level PD, unless you register for graduate credit.

Professional Development Certificate- All Participants will receive a certificate for 20+ professional development hours. 

Graduate Credits- In addition, we have partnered with an accredited university to allow participants to earn 1 graduate credit for an additional $100 or 3 graduate credits for an additional $300. 

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Leaders:

TBD

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Questions? Visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!

Booking Your Trip

Costs & Inclusions
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Booking Info

Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure with just a $300 nonrefundable deposit. From there, 40% of your trip cost will be due 6 months before your travel date, and the final payment will be due 3 months prior to departure. It’s a simple, flexible way to lock in your journey and start counting down to the experience of a lifetime!

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Trip pricing can change at any time due to fluctuating travel costs. Book now to lock in your rate and secure your spot at the current price!

✅ What’s Included

  • PD Certificate

    A certificate for 20+ hours of Professional Development

  • Welcome Reception

    Welcome Reception/Orientation

  • Accomodations

    Hotel accommodations in 3 or 4 star hotels included throughout the trip

  • Meals

    Breakfast most morning

  • Farewell Dinner

    Conclusive Dinner

  • Group Activities

    Group activities are included, as indicated in the itinerary

  • Ground Transportation

    Most ground transportation in-country to and from included group activities, unless walkable.

  • BBT T-Shirt

    A BBT T-Shirt will be sent to the participant before the trip

  • The BBT Team

    Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!

❌ What’s Not Included

  • Airfare

    Airfare is not included

  • Optional Side Trips

    You will have a list of optional side trips for an additional fee at a later date

  • VISA

    At the appropriate time, we will provide a link to the VISA application.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    For in-country guides and drivers

  • Early/Late Transfers

    If you are arriving or departing earlier/later than the scheduled Group dates, you will be responsible for your own transfers. We are happy to advise, but we will not cover the cost.

Overview

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Overview

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Trip Description

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Leaders:

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1. Rome

Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

2. Orvieto

05018 Orvieto, Province of Terni, Italy

3. Florence

Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy

4. Venice

Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

5. Rome

Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

Day 1 - July 6

Arrival Day
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Arrive into Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO)

Leaders will welcome you at the airport and will get you transferred to the hotel. Arrive into Rome by 12 PM in order to be a part of the walking tour.

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Welcome Reception

Orientation and light refreshments.

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Included Group Activities:

For all participants arriving into Rome by 12PM.

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City Walking Tour:

After settling in, embark on a wonderful walking tour to discover the Roman monuments, ancient landmarks, and architectural masterpieces of various Italian artists. 

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Check in at Genova Hotel (or similar)

Hotel Genova offers a prime location near iconic attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Enjoy modern amenities within a beautifully restored classic Roman building. The rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views, while the on-site bar features an exquisite selection of local wines. Savor complimentary breakfast with regional specialties for a truly delightful stay.
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Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure! Fill in this form on our website

Day 2 - July 7

The Colosseum
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Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

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Early Morning Group Activity:

Visit the Colosseum and Ancient Roman Forum. Enjoy a guided tour of the Forum, discovering remains of public buildings, temples, the sacred dwelling of the Vestal Virgins, and more. Learn about the political, social, and religious core of ancient Rome.

Sites Visited:

  • Colosseum

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  • We will provide a ticket for Roman Forum for a self guided tour.

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Free Afternoon to Explore Rome

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Optional Late Afternoon Activity (Additional Cost):

Trastevere Food Tour and Pizza Class. Savor traditional Italian food and learn to make Roman pasta dishes, including fettuccine, with hands-on instructions from a chef using fresh local ingredients. 

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Overnight at Genova Hotel (or similar)

Hotel Genova offers a prime location near iconic attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Enjoy modern amenities within a beautifully restored classic Roman building. The rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views, while the on-site bar features an exquisite selection of local wines. Savor complimentary breakfast with regional specialties for a truly delightful stay.
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Day 3 - July 8

Vatican City
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Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

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Included Group Activity:

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Morning Guided Tour

Visit the Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.

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Lunch & Shopping Around the Vatican (On Your Own)

Drivers will leave around 1:30pm. If you choose to stay, travel back on your own.

Optional Evening Activity (Additional Cost): 

Rome by Night Riding Tour (3-4 hour tour). Enjoy a scenic ride around the outskirts of Rome.

There will be multiple stops throughout the tour for perfect picture opportunities!

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Overnight at Genova Hotel (or similar)

Hotel Genova offers a prime location near iconic attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Enjoy modern amenities within a beautifully restored classic Roman building. The rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views, while the on-site bar features an exquisite selection of local wines. Savor complimentary breakfast with regional specialties for a truly delightful stay.
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Day 4 - July 9

Rome to Florence
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Breakfast At Hotel

If train departure allows.

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Early Morning Train to Florence with a Stop in Orvieto

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Included Group Activities:

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Morning Stop: Orvieto

Together we will depart for Florence, stopping in Orvieto, a small city perched on a rock cliff in Umbria. Explore the Duomo di Orvieto, with its mosaic facade and marble Pietà sculpture, and the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a 16th-century well shaft with a double spiral staircase.

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Wine tasting Lunch in Orvieto (Included) :

Together we will enjoy a delightful lunch at Enoteca Al Duomo, sampling local culinary delights such as truffle pasta and artisan cheeses.

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Travel to Florence

Finish traveling to Florence

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Overnight at Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Experience the Atlantic Palace, where you can unwind on the stunning beachfront with direct access to sandy shores. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, or indulge in exquisite regional cuisine at the renowned restaurant. With charming historical architecture and personalized wellness services, this hotel offers a unique getaway filled with relaxation and adventure.
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Overnight in Florence at the Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Day 5 - July 10

Explore Florence
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Breakfast

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Group Activity: FULL Day Guided Walking Tour of Florence

All-day walking tour of Florence: Explore the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's original statue of David, visit the Duomo of Santa Maria in Fiore, and marvel at the "Door of Paradise." The climb may be challenging, but the views are so worth it!

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No large bags allowed during this tour. We will be going to many beautiful sightseeing spots that do not allow large bags.

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Lunch On Your Own

Gather a group of friends and discover a charming restaurant nearby, then reunite to complete the guided tour!

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Finish Guided Walking Tour

Continue seeing the enchanting sights in Florence with your guided walking tour.

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Overnight at Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Experience the Atlantic Palace, where you can unwind on the stunning beachfront with direct access to sandy shores. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, or indulge in exquisite regional cuisine at the renowned restaurant. With charming historical architecture and personalized wellness services, this hotel offers a unique getaway filled with relaxation and adventure.
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Overnight in Florence at the Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Day 6 - July 11

Tuscan Countryside
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Breakfast

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Free Day to Explore Florence

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Optional Full Day in Volterra and San Gimignano (Additional Cost)

  • Morning Activity: Volterra

Drive through Tuscany to explore Volterra, a walled hilltop town with structures from the Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval periods. Visit artisan shops specializing in sculptured alabaster items.

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  • Afternoon Activity: San Gimignano

Visit San Gimignano, known as the "Medieval Manhattan" for its tower-filled skyline. Explore its medieval houses, fountains, and towers, and enjoy an incredible wine-tasting lunch with typical local food and super Tuscan wine.

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Overnight in Florence at the Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Day 7 - July 12

Full Day in Venice
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Breakfast

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Morning Fast Train to Venice

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Included Group Activities:

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Choose Option 1 (No additional charge) or Option 2 (additional fee of $50) for the group activity!

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Option 1: Guided Group Walking Tour:

*No additional charge

As a group, we will enjoy a guided walking tour and explore the city’s iconic sites, including the Rialto Bridge, the Bovolo Contarini Spiral Staircase, and more. Visit Piazza San Marco, Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Campanile. After lunch on your own, our guide will continue leading us through the calle’s (narrow streets) and landmarks of Venice.

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Option 2: Guided Group Tour To Murano & Burano

*Additional charge of $50, if you choose this option.

Visit the island of Murano, where Murano glass originated, and then take a boat to the island of Burano, known for its lace and colorful houses.

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Extra charge of $50 for this option to travel by boat to Murano and Burano.

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Fast Train to Florence

Meet back up with group to catch your fast train back to Florence.

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Overnight in Florence at the Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Day 8 - July 13

Day in Florence
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Breakfast

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Free Day to Explore Florence

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Optional Day Trip to Siena (Additional Cost)

  • In the morning, our Italian guide, we will visit Siena, one of the most popular and visited places in Tuscany, known for its rich history, art, and strong local traditions.

  • Lunch on your own in Siena.

  • Wine tasting tour at the oldest winery in Italy.

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Farewell Dinner

Group dinner at 8 PM to enjoy each other's company before traveling back to Rome and wrapping up the trip.

Overnight in Florence at the Hotel Atlantic Palace (or similar accommodations)

Day 9 - July 14

Back to Rome
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Breakfast

If train departure allows

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Fast Train from Florence to Rome

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Free Afternoon/Evening in Rome to Explore

Enjoy a free day in Rome, revisiting the rich history, culture, and delicious cuisine at your own pace. Discover more iconic landmarks or stroll through charming neighborhoods filled with local shops and cafes.

You might also indulge in authentic Italian gelato while soaking up the beautiful atmosphere of this timeless city!

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Overnight at Hotel Genova (or similar accommodations)

Experience the charm of Hotel Genova, centrally located near Rome's iconic attractions like the Colosseum. This beautifully restored historic building blends modern amenities with classic Italian design. Enjoy authentic local cuisine at the on-site restaurant and take in breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace, all while receiving personalized assistance from the 24-hour concierge service.
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Day 10 - July 15

Departure Day
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Depart from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO)

Leaders will assist with transportation to airport

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Breakfast

If flight allows

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Free Day

If Flight Allows

Extending your stay? 

Let us help you plan your next adventure. Fill in this form on the website OR choose your own activity.

Package Options

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Shared Room Package

Perfect for travelers looking to save and connect. Share a comfortable room with another traveler and enjoy all the same great experiences at a lower cost. If you’re traveling with a friend, let us know your roommate preference at checkout. Otherwise, we’ll thoughtfully pair you with someone of a similar age and teaching level.

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If we cannot place you with a roommate the single room rate will apply, we hope you understand.

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Private Room Package

Ideal for those who prefer extra privacy. Relax in your own room after each day’s adventure while still enjoying all group activities and inclusions. A great option for travelers who want a little more personal space.

Roommate Disclaimer

Heads-Up, Snoozers!  If you snore like a bear, rock a CPAP machine, need white noise, or have any other quirky sleep habits, we totally understand — everyone has their bedtime vibe! But to keep things peaceful for your fellow travelers, please consider booking a private room.

Even better? Bring a friend you’ve already shared a room (and some laughs) with, and have them register too!

Let’s keep the Zzzs drama-free and the vibes just right. Thanks for being the considerate rockstar you are!

Travel Tips

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Travel Tips

  1. Dress modestly in public places, especially in when visiting cathedrals. (Shoulders must be covered and dress/pants knee length)

  2. Stay hydrated! Carry water with you, particularly when exploring outdoor attractions.

  3. Respect local customs and traditions.

  4. Use public transport or rideshare apps to navigate cities efficiently.

  5. Try local cuisine, such as gelato and fresh-made pasta, for an authentic taste of Italy.

  6. Be aware of personal belongs when moving around crowded tourist areas.

  7. Plan visits to popular attractions early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.

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A Few Useful Phrases

Here are a few useful Italian phrases that come in handy while traveling:

  • Ciao! (Hello / Goodbye – casual)

  • Buongiorno! (Good morning)

  • Buonasera! (Good evening)

  • Per favore (Please)

  • Grazie / Grazie mille (Thank you / Thank you very much)

  • Prego (You’re welcome / Please, go ahead)

  • Dove si trova…? (Where is…?)

  • Quanto costa? (How much does it cost?)

  • Un biglietto per Roma, per favore. (A ticket to Rome, please.)

  • Il conto, per favore. (The check, please.)

  • Mi scusi. (Excuse me.)

  • Parla inglese? (Do you speak English?)

  • Non capisco. (I don’t understand.)

  • Aiuto! (Help!)

About Us

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Bookbag Tours

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What is Bookbag Tours?

Bookbag Tours is dedicated to providing quality professional development through immersive travel experiences for educators and their family and friends. Our trips offer a truly global perspective, allowing participants to gain insights that enrich their classrooms and lives.

Our mission is to empower educators and their companions with hands-on global experiences, equipping them to inspire students both in and out of the classroom.

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What to Expect from Your Trip?

With Bookbag Tours, you’ll earn 20+ professional development hours while exploring incredible countries alongside fellow educators and their guests. We also offer specialized trips focused on Marine Conservation and Ancient Civilizations that provide excellent PD without school visits, ensuring valuable knowledge is brought back to every participant.

We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those who strive to make the world a better place through meaningful group trips, professional development conferences, and cultural engagement.

We're Here to Help

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Contact Us!

We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:


Phone or WhatsApp: +1 (864) 907- 9874

Email: [email protected]

DM us on Socials: @bookbagtours

Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!