St. John 's Jesuit Italy 2027: Florence, Assisi , Rome & Sorrento
This unforgettable journey is far more than a trip to Italy—it is an invitation into the living story of faith, culture, and discovery. Designed for students of Toledo St. John Jesuit High School, the experience brings together the richness of the Catholic tradition with the beauty, history, and energy of Italy’s most iconic destinations. From the Renaissance streets of Florence to the quiet hills of Assisi and the grandeur of Rome, each day reveals a new dimension of both the world and one’s place within it.
At its heart, this journey is about encounter—encounter with places, with history, with one another, and with God. In Assisi, students walk in the footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare, discovering a way of life marked by simplicity, joy, and purpose. They will also spend time at the tomb of St. Carlo Acutis, a modern saint whose life speaks directly to young people today, offering a powerful reminder that holiness is not distant, but possible here and now.
In Rome, the experience deepens as students engage the roots of their Jesuit identity. Standing in the Church of the Gesù, praying at the tomb of St. Ignatius of Loyola, and visiting the rooms where he lived and discerned, the story of Jesuit education becomes tangible and real. These are not abstract ideas, but living places that continue to shape the mission of the Church and the formation of young men today.
Yet this journey is not only about history or explicitly religious moments—it is also about encountering God in the fullness of life itself. In the Jesuit tradition of finding God in all things, students are invited to recognize the sacred not only in basilicas and places of prayer, but in the beauty of a shared meal, the energy of a city street, the laughter of new friendships, and the quiet awe of the sea. Whether learning to make pasta in Florence, exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Rome, or taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, these experiences become moments of grace. In this way, the journey helps form young men not only in faith, but in purpose—growing as men for others, attentive to the presence of God in the world and in the lives of those around them.
By the time the group returns home, students will carry more than photographs. They will bring back a deeper sense of faith, stronger bonds of friendship, and a broadened perspective of the world. It is an experience designed not only to be remembered, but to shape who they are becoming.
Special Features
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A thoughtfully designed journey through Italy’s most iconic and meaningful destinations—Florence, Assisi, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast—blending faith, culture, history, and shared experience.
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Immersive time in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, including visits to the Duomo and the Accademia Gallery to encounter Michelangelo’s David, along with a hands-on Italian cooking class that brings the group together around the table.
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Meaningful time in Assisi, walking in the footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare, with visits to the Basilica of St. Francis and key Franciscan sites, as well as time for prayer at the tomb of St. Carlo Acutis, a modern witness of faith who speaks powerfully to young people today.
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Overnight stay in a Franciscan retreat setting in Santa Maria degli Angeli, offering a quieter rhythm and space for reflection and community.
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Engagement with the Jesuit roots of the Church in Rome, including visits to the Church of the Gesù and the Ignatian Rooms, where St. Ignatius of Loyola lived and discerned his calling.
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Exploration of Ancient Rome, with guided visits to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, bringing history vividly to life.
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A comprehensive experience of Vatican City, including the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and participation in a Papal Audience in St. Peter’s Square (subject to the Holy Father’s schedule).
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Walking tour of Rome’s historic center, featuring iconic landmarks such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona, along with time to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere, including an evening in Trastevere.
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Following the path of St. Paul, with visits to the Catacombs, the Abbey of Tre Fontane, and the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.
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Excursion to Castel Gandolfo, the traditional summer residence of the popes, including the Papal Palace and gardens, with the possibility of visiting the Vatican Observatory, where faith and science meet.
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Journey south to Pompeii, offering a powerful and unforgettable encounter with history, followed by time in the coastal town of Sorrento.
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A full-day private boat experience along the Amalfi Coast, with opportunities to swim, relax, and take in one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
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A balanced rhythm of guided experiences, shared meals, and free time, allowing students to explore, connect, and experience each place in a meaningful and memorable way.
Tour Package Includes
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10 nights accommodation in carefully selected, centrally located hotels and retreat settings in Florence, Assisi, Rome, and Sorrento, based on double occupancy; single rooms available at an additional cost.
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Daily breakfast throughout the journey, along with included group dinners as specified in the itinerary.
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All city hotel taxes, service charges, and applicable local fees.
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All group airport–hotel–airport transfers when traveling on the main program arrival and departure dates.
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Transportation by private, air-conditioned motorcoach, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter vehicles for navigating Rome’s historic center, and high-speed rail, as outlined in the itinerary, including all intercity travel.
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Private boat excursion along the Amalfi Coast.
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Support from a dedicated tour manager, guided sightseeing and walking tours throughout the program, along with ongoing support from your group leaders.
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All entrance fees and reservations for included visits listed in the itinerary, including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Pompeii.
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Coordination for participation in a Papal Audience (subject to the Holy Father’s schedule and Vatican approval).
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Pre-departure materials and guidance to help students and families prepare both practically and thoughtfully for the journey.