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Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

Italy & Greece

Journey to the Roots of the Western World

June 26 — July 12
July 10 — July 26
$ + airfare

Italy & Greece

Journey to the Roots of the Western World

June 26 — July 12
July 10 — July 26
$ + airfare

From ancient marvels to contemporary charm, journey through Italy and Greece this summer to experience these rich Mediterranean cultures. Discover the wonders of Athens, explore ancient structures in Corinth, soak up the sun in Kefalonia, and experience the lively historic squares of Perugia. Learn to craft pasta from scratch, try your hand at pressing olive oil, and kayak in the Ionian Sea. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Western civilization as you visit iconic sites like the Acropolis and Colosseum, capping your program in Rome. Engage with vibrant cultures, sample delicious cuisine, and embrace the spirit of these magnificent destinations.

• Explore famous monuments of history, from the Colosseum to the Acropolis
• Kayak the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea off the coast of Kefalonia
• Visit artisans’ workshops in Perugia and create your own ceramics
• Learn to make Greek specialties at an organic farm
“She came back from her trip happy, confident, more independent, and ready for another adventure. Her first Putney experience opened up a whole new world for her.”
—Nicole & Chad McDaniel, Glastonbury, CT

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow student travelers and one or more of your program leaders in New York, and fly together to Athens, Greece. Transfer via private bus to Corinth. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Corinth & Patras, Greece — 3 days

Begin in Corinth, and get acquainted with the cities of the ancient world. Have an in-depth orientation with your group, then journey along the coast of the Gulf of Corinth and explore Greece’s oldest and highest acropolis, with stunning views of the ancient city coast. Visit the Patras Fortress and explore the city’s renowned Archaeological Museum. Try regional dishes like stifado (a beef stew) or fresh seafood in local restaurants, and venture out for a hike or a kayak.

Argostoli, Greece — 3 days

Hop on a ferry and head to Kefalonia, an island in the Ionian Sea. Explore the beaches and cuisine of this hidden island getaway, kayak in the crystal clear coastal waters, and see the ancient lighthouse of Sami. Learn to prepare traditional dishes at an organic farm and bask in the Ionian waters before heading to the nation's capital, Athens.

Athens, Greece — 3 days

Head back to Athens via ferry, then get to know the neighborhoods and culture of the city during a street art tour. Head to the Parthenon and explore the history of the Acropolis, visit some of Athens’ renowned archaeological museums, and enjoy a bike ride through Marathon, home to the original distance runners and medieval architecture. Along the way, continue to immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the country, sampling moussaka, souvlaki, and dolmades.

Perugia, Italy — 3 days

Fly from Athens to Rome, then head north to the town of Perugia. Visit the renowned Perugina chocolate factory and learn to make Italian-style truffles. Stroll through the town's historic streets, exploring its medieval architecture and lively squares. Learn about the city’s thriving artisan culture, and chat with a master weaver and stained glass restorer; then, try your hand at making your own ceramic plate. Enjoy a gelato at a local gelateria before heading back to Rome.

Rome, Italy — 3 days

Travel to Rome and experience this iconic Italian city. Explore the Colosseum, witness the city’s stunning architecture, then head to Vatican City. Take in the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo, get a lesson in pasta making from an Italian chef, and sample traditional Roman dishes such as pasta carbonara and gelato. Enjoy a final dinner with your new friends to celebrate and reflect on your adventures.

Return — Travel Day

Fly from Rome to New York with your group and a leader, then continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Departure — Travel Day

Meet your fellow student travelers and one or more of your program leaders in New York, and fly together to Athens, Greece. Transfer via private bus to Corinth. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Corinth & Patras, Greece — 3 days

Begin in Corinth, and get acquainted with the cities of the ancient world. Have an in-depth orientation with your group, then journey along the coast of the Gulf of Corinth and explore Greece’s oldest and highest acropolis, with stunning views of the ancient city coast. Visit the Patras Fortress and explore the city’s renowned Archaeological Museum. Try regional dishes like stifado (a beef stew) or fresh seafood in local restaurants, and venture out for a hike or a kayak.

Argostoli, Greece — 3 days

Hop on a ferry and head to Kefalonia, an island in the Ionian Sea. Explore the beaches and cuisine of this hidden island getaway, kayak in the crystal clear coastal waters, and see the ancient lighthouse of Sami. Learn to prepare traditional dishes at an organic farm and bask in the Ionian waters before heading to the nation's capital, Athens.

Athens, Greece — 3 days

Head back to Athens via ferry, then get to know the neighborhoods and culture of the city during a street art tour. Head to the Parthenon and explore the history of the Acropolis, visit some of Athens’ renowned archaeological museums, and enjoy a bike ride through Marathon, home to the original distance runners and medieval architecture. Along the way, continue to immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of the country, sampling moussaka, souvlaki, and dolmades.

Perugia, Italy — 3 days

Fly from Athens to Rome, then head north to the town of Perugia. Visit the renowned Perugina chocolate factory and learn to make Italian-style truffles. Stroll through the town's historic streets, exploring its medieval architecture and lively squares. Learn about the city’s thriving artisan culture, and chat with a master weaver and stained glass restorer; then, try your hand at making your own ceramic plate. Enjoy a gelato at a local gelateria before heading back to Rome.

Rome, Italy — 3 days

Travel to Rome and experience this iconic Italian city. Explore the Colosseum, witness the city’s stunning architecture, then head to Vatican City. Take in the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo, get a lesson in pasta making from an Italian chef, and sample traditional Roman dishes such as pasta carbonara and gelato. Enjoy a final dinner with your new friends to celebrate and reflect on your adventures.

Return — Travel Day

Fly from Rome to New York with your group and a leader, then continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

CropMSXITGRB Ronan Fitzgerald
Ronan Fitzgerald
View Bio
CropMSXITGRB Lily Willis 2
Lily Willis
View Bio
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Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

CropMSXITGRB Ronan Fitzgerald
Ronan Fitzgerald
View Bio
CropMSXITGRB Lily Willis 2
Lily Willis
View Bio
Loading...
About the Destination

Italy and Greece are renowned for their historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Italy, with iconic cities like Rome, captivates visitors with its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and world-class cuisine. From the ancient Colosseum to the historic town of Perugia, this program offers a range of experiences, encompassing stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and magnificent architecture. Greece, birthplace of democracy and ancient civilization, beckons travelers with its rich history, archaeological wonders like the Acropolis in Athens, crystal-clear waters, and delicious cuisine.

Language

Italian and Greek are the official languages of Italy and Greece, respectively.

Climate

Summer weather in Italy and Greece is generally hot. Average daytime temperatures range from 80–90°F (26–32°C), while average nighttime temperatures range from 70-80°F (21–26°C).

Cuisine

Italian cuisine is known for its diverse regional flavors, incorporating fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and rich sauces, with popular dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. Greek cuisine includes staples of the Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on olive oil, fresh seafood, tangy feta cheese, vibrant vegetables, and traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita.

About the Destination

Italy and Greece are renowned for their historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Italy, with iconic cities like Rome, captivates visitors with its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and world-class cuisine. From the ancient Colosseum to the historic town of Perugia, this program offers a range of experiences, encompassing stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and magnificent architecture. Greece, birthplace of democracy and ancient civilization, beckons travelers with its rich history, archaeological wonders like the Acropolis in Athens, crystal-clear waters, and delicious cuisine.

Language

Italian and Greek are the official languages of Italy and Greece, respectively.

Climate

Summer weather in Italy and Greece is generally hot. Average daytime temperatures range from 80–90°F (26–32°C), while average nighttime temperatures range from 70-80°F (21–26°C).

Cuisine

Italian cuisine is known for its diverse regional flavors, incorporating fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and rich sauces, with popular dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. Greek cuisine includes staples of the Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on olive oil, fresh seafood, tangy feta cheese, vibrant vegetables, and traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita.

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

Exploration

To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.

Independent Project

Pursue an independent project and explore an aspect of local culture of particular interest to you—create a recipe book with staple Italian and Greek recipes from your cooking classes, learn a traditional song, or compose poetry based on your experiences.

Physical Activity

This is a physically active summer travel program. Activities include hiking, swimming, kayaking, and exploring cities on foot. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Language Practice

Proficiency in Italian and Greek is not required. However, if you speak or study these languages in school you will have opportunities to practice while communicating with local people. If you don’t speak Italian and Greek you will have the opportunity to learn some basic language skills.

Accommodations

Throughout Italy and Greece, we stay in small family-run hotels and hostels.

Meals

We begin each day with a traditional breakfast at our residence. While we eat many of our lunches and dinners in restaurants, we also purchase supplies for healthy and delicious picnic lunches full of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, breads, and cheeses.

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

Exploration

To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.

Independent Project

Pursue an independent project and explore an aspect of local culture of particular interest to you—create a recipe book with staple Italian and Greek recipes from your cooking classes, learn a traditional song, or compose poetry based on your experiences.

Physical Activity

This is a physically active summer travel program. Activities include hiking, swimming, kayaking, and exploring cities on foot. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Language Practice

Proficiency in Italian and Greek is not required. However, if you speak or study these languages in school you will have opportunities to practice while communicating with local people. If you don’t speak Italian and Greek you will have the opportunity to learn some basic language skills.

Accommodations

Throughout Italy and Greece, we stay in small family-run hotels and hostels.

Meals

We begin each day with a traditional breakfast at our residence. While we eat many of our lunches and dinners in restaurants, we also purchase supplies for healthy and delicious picnic lunches full of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, breads, and cheeses.

A Day in the Life: Kefalonia, Greece​

Due to the traveling nature of this student program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Kefalonia, Greece.
8:00am
Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast at your hotel
9:00am
Meet your guides and get outfitted with kayak gear before heading out
10:00am
Paddle through the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea, searching for seals and turtles
12:30pm
Take a break for a picnic lunch on the white-sand shores
3:00pm
Visit the Argostoli lighthouse and stroll back into town, poking around charming shops
6:00pm
Enjoy a Kefalonian-style dinner of fresh meat, rice and vegetables at a local family-run restaurant
10:00pm
Group meeting to discuss the day and upcoming schedule

A Day in the Life:
Kefalonia, Greece​

Due to the traveling nature of this student program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Kefalonia, Greece.
8:00am
Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast at your hotel
9:00am
Meet your guides and get outfitted with kayak gear before heading out
10:00am
Paddle through the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea, searching for seals and turtles
12:30pm
Take a break for a picnic lunch on the white-sand shores
3:00pm
Visit the Argostoli lighthouse and stroll back into town, poking around charming shops
6:00pm
Enjoy a Kefalonian-style dinner of fresh meat, rice and vegetables at a local family-run restaurant
10:00pm
Group meeting to discuss the day and upcoming schedule
“I was expecting it to be amazing but it was even better!”
—Nari C., San Francisco Day School, San Francisco, CA
emma-smith

This Program is Directed by

Emma Smith

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

emma-smith

This Program is Directed by

Emma Smith

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

Enroll in two programs & save $1,000!

$800 tuition discount + no application fee

Pre-College
Barcelona
Tokyo
Tuscany
Intensives
Oxford Academia
You may also like
Climate & Conservation
Baja & the Gulf of California
Belize
Canadian Arctic
Chile
Iceland
Namibia
Culture & Art
Science & Business
Exploration
Australia & Fiji
Australia, New Zealand, & Fiji
Croatia & Slovenia
Iceland
Italy & Greece
Japan
Kilimanjaro
Norway
Patagonia: Skiing
Switzerland, France, & Holland
Switzerland, Italy, France, & Holland
French
France
Mandarin
China
Spanish
Ecuador & the Galápagos
Spain
You may also like
Service
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Ecuador & the Galápagos
Ecuador & the Galápagos
Hawai'i
Hawai'i
Morocco
Nepal
Peru
Puerto Rico
Tanzania
Thailand
Vietnam
Eligible for 8th grade*​
Columbia Climate School Collaboration
Harvard Chan C-CHANGE Youth Summit
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered
Grades 7&8​
Ireland
Iceland
France & Holland
Italy & Greece
Grades 7&8​
France
Spain
Grades 6–8
Costa Rica
Grades 7&8​
Ecuador & the Galápagos
Hawai'i
Italy & Greece
Journey to the Roots of the Western World

2024 Dates
June 26 — July 12
July 10 — July 26

Duration
17 days

Tuition
$ + airfare

Eligibility
Currently* in grades 7–8
*Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group
14–16 students, 2 leaders

Group Flight
Departs from New York


 

Additional Info

Questions? Visit our FAQ or call us at (802) 387-5000

 

2024 Dates
June 26 — July 12
July 10 — July 26

Duration
17 days

Tuition
$ + airfare


 

Eligibility
Currently* in grades 7–8
*Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group
14–16 students, 2 leaders

Group Flight
Departs from New York

 

Questions? Visit our FAQ or call us at (802) 387-5000

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