Studying abroad is an opportunity to discover new places, build lifelong friendships, and experience a new culture beyond the classroom.
At John Cabot University, academics extend far beyond the classroom. Through JCU's Cultural Programs, students explore Italy with organized day trips, weekend excursions, cooking classes, and local cultural experiences that complement their studies in Rome.
Whether you're interested in hiking along the coast, learning how to make authentic Italian pasta, relaxing at the beach, or exploring medieval villages, these experiences help students connect with Italy while creating lifelong memories alongside classmates from around the world.
Here's a look at some of the trips and activities available during the Fall 2026 semester.
Cultural Trips & Activities – Fall 2026
From wine tastings and beach days to cooking classes and weekend adventures, JCU students have countless opportunities to experience Italy together throughout the semester. Upcoming highlights include:
Explore Italy with Weekend Trips
One of the greatest benefits of studying in Rome is how easy it is to explore the rest of Italy. This semester, students can travel even farther through JCU's organized weekend excursions.
- Sapri & the Cilento Coast (September 4-6) - Discover southern Italy's stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and charming seaside villages while enjoying one of Italy's lesser-known gems.
- Tuscany (October 9-11) - Experience rolling vineyards, historic towns, incredible cuisine, and some of Italy's most iconic landscapes during a weekend in Tuscany.
- Cinque Terre (October 16-18) - Explore the colorful cliffside villages of Cinque Terre, hike scenic coastal trails, and enjoy breathtaking views overlooking the Ligurian Sea. This destination remains one of the most popular student trips every year.
- Matera (November 13-15) - Walk through one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities and discover the famous Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site unlike anywhere else in Italy.
Escape the City with Day Trips
Need a break from the pace of Rome? Several day trips offer students the chance to relax, explore, and experience different regions of Italy.
- Sperlonga (September 4) - Spend the day at one of Italy's most beautiful seaside towns, known for its crystal-clear water, whitewashed streets, and relaxed atmosphere.
- Ostia (October 30) - Only a short trip from Rome, Ostia offers beautiful beaches where students can learn how to surf, swim, relax, and enjoy the Mediterranean coast.
- Bracciano Outdoor Experience (September 18) - Escape into nature with a day near Lake Bracciano, where students can enjoy outdoor activities surrounded by beautiful scenery.
- Castelli Romani & Wine Tasting (September 11)- Explore charming hill towns just outside Rome while discovering local food traditions and enjoying one of Italy's famous wine-producing regions.
- Civita di Bagnoregio & Thermal Baths (November 6)- Visit one of Italy's most breathtaking medieval villages before relaxing in natural thermal baths—a favorite Cultural Programs excursion every year.
- Naples (November 20) - Discover the vibrant energy of Naples through its historic streets, world-famous cuisine, stunning waterfront, and breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius.
Experience Rome Like a Local
Even after weeks of living in Rome, there's always something new to discover. The Experience Rome activities introduce students to neighborhoods, traditions, local culture, and hidden corners of the Eternal City that many visitors never see.
- Campo de' Fiori & Pantheon (September 8)
- Villa Borghese by Bike (September 15)
- A Night at the Opera (September 23)
- Circus Maximus & Garum Museum (September 30)
- Villa Farnesina and Botanical Garden (October 14)
- Trastevere and Testaccio Market (October 20)
Learn to Cook Authentic Italian Food
Learn authentic Italian recipes from local chefs while enjoying one of Italy's favorite traditions—sharing a meal together. Students can participate in:
- Pasta and Tiramisu (September 14)
- Pizza (October 13)
- Roman Recipes (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Recipes (November 24)
👉 Check out all of our upcoming Trips and Activities at JCU here.
Please note that the itinerary and the activities listed are subject to change.
Why Students Love Traveling with JCU
Life in Rome is vibrant, where ancient history meets modern culture at every corner. JCU’s Cultural Programs make it easier for students to experience Italy with confidence. Each trip is designed to offer:
- High-quality guided cultural activities
- Carefully selected accommodations
- Expert staff on-site for the entire trip
- Stress-free travel planning, with transportation and logistics organized for you
- Balance between free time and guided cultural immersion
- Opportunities to meet students from across the world and make friendships
Whether you're studying at JCU for a semester, a full degree, or the summer, Cultural Programs are one of the best ways to experience Italy.
Student Travel Tips
Here are a few tips for making the most of your travels in Italy:
- Travel light: Bring only the essentials and wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
- Stay prepared: Carry a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a portable phone charger.
- Check what’s included: Always pay attention to details to know what is included before you go.
- Write about your travels: Keeping a travel journal helps capture memories, inner changes, fears, and joys from each adventure.
- Register early, as trips often fill quickly: Be sure to register by the sign-up deadline. Trips may be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met, but full refunds are provided in such cases.
- Ask for help: If you need support and you are not traveling with someone, call the JCU emergency phone and get in touch with International SOS. JCU staff and resources are always available for you.
Make the Most of Your Semester in Rome
The memories students make outside the classroom often become just as meaningful as those they make inside it.
One JCU student shared:
“I will be forever connected to the people and to the places we visited. This weekend gave me a new appreciation for my life, and for this journey here in Italy. Thank you for building a community for us all to enjoy our time, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Until now, I always traveled by rushing and taking photos, afraid to miss something. Now I’ve learned to slow down, to listen as I explore new horizons, and to remember that the real privilege is not just moving from one place to another, but feeling alive and connected while doing so.”
Ready to explore Italy while studying in Rome? Browse the latest JCU Cultural Programs and start planning your next adventure.
👉 Learn more about Trips and Activities at JCU here.