What to Do: Tour of Italy

Tuscania:

Due to the support of the local authorities and the collaboration with the University of Viterbo, students actively participate in the cultural and social life of the region. Tuscania has not yet lost its curiosity and respect for different cultures and still values art and beauty as the uncorrupted means of communication.

Tuscania offers nature walks, individual trips to nearby towns and monuments, and activities such as bicycle tours and horse riding. In addition to course-related visits, Lorenzo de' Medici hosts regularly scheduled social events throughout the academic year.

Rome:

The school's central location in Rome can be easily reached from any part of the city by public transportation. Situated between two metro stops, numerous bus lines, and less than five minutes away from the central rail station (Termini), students have access to all that this major European city has to offer.

Florence(Fall Semester Only):

Athena provides its students with exceptional recreational opportunities both inside and outside the city of Florence. These include guided visits to historic sites, social activities (e.g., dinners at characteristic local restaurants, allowing students to sample Italy's exceptional cuisine), seasonal festivals, special events and conferences, field trips, theatre, concerts, and much more.

Florence has a large number of private gyms and dance studios popular with visiting students, as well as facilities for track, basketball, soccer, swimming and other sports.

Each week the school organizes free activities, such as seminars on Italy and Italian culture that include a large variety of subjects (history, geography, literature, food, folkloric events, music, cinema) and guided visits to the most important monuments and churches and museums in Florence, led by professors of art history; screenings of Italian movies.

Venice (Spring Semester Only):

The school was founded by local Venetians who want to develop and share an authentic Venice immersion with the student. Afternoon excursions and walking tours are organized, which allow students to expand their knowledge about Venetian history, art, traditions and daily life.

Possible activities include:

• Art: Tour museums and art exhibitions.
• Local handcraft: Visit the glass and mask workshops and the squeri (where the gondolas are made).
• History: Wander around the historical areas of the city, taking in its history and majesty.
• Delicious dishes: Walk around the Rialto market (one of the greatest markets in the world), visit the local bacari and trattorie, taste local dishes and wine, and possibly even take cooking lessons!
• Athletic activities: Trek the islands of the lagoon, take bike trips on Venice Lido, and have the option to become a member of the Sport University Centre where you can learn voga alla veneta (rowing), play soccer, volleyball, etc.