If you are passionate about integrative health and also love a pampering vacation, the Study Abroad: Italy tour is the perfect fit. This 6 day / 5 night educational experience takes you across the beautiful Italian countryside through some of the oldest medical sites in the world, winding down each night with delectable meals and local wines that can only be found in Northern Italy.
The trip is led by Dr. Jessie Hawkins and the Franklin Health team; you will also enjoy the expertise of Professor Marco Valussi during the first half the of the trip.
6 Action Packed Days
During this 6-day trip, you will explore one of the oldest botanical medicinal gardens in the world, tour a stunning vineyard, and enjoy educational experiences rooted in the unsurpassed culinary experiences of the region.
Intimate Groups
Each step of the way, you’ll enjoy one-on-one time with Franklin Health researchers Dr Jessie Hawkins, Christy Hires, and Elizabeth Dunne. Tour capacity is typically limited to 12-22 total participants, depending on the destination.
Continuing Education
Not only does this Study Abroad trip provide you with memories that last a lifetime, you will earn a continuing education certificate to celebrate your accomplishment.

Schedule Preview
Our tour begins at 1pm local time at the Venice airport (Marco Polo / VCE). After a brief meet and greet, you’ll be transported to the islands of Venice on a luxurious and private speedboat with plush leather seats and mahogany finishings.
The first day is focused on helping you slowly immerse yourself into the luxuries of Italian charm with an open air educational session before heading outside of the city to Padua to settle in for the night.
Meals & Accommodations
Registration Includes
The trip includes all meals and accommodations during the 6 day / 5 night experience. Meals include a light breakfast, a moderate sized traditional Italian lunch, and a full dinner which includes a glass of wine. Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary requirements can be accommodated.
Free Time
The schedule is packed with one-of-a-kind adventures. However, we usually conclude with dinner around 6:30pm and you are free to explore the cities after that time. Each destination is safe for evening exploration and the sun does not set until close to 9pm, providing you plenty of daylight to enjoy the sights.
You will also have 2 scheduled afternoon free time sessions which allow you to book tours or shop on your own.
Plane & Personal Expenses
Registration does not include your airfare to and from Italy or personal expenses. You will need to travel from your hometown to Northern Italy. (Suggested airports: Venice, Florence, Bologna)
All travel inside of Italy is also included in the cost, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views knowing that everything is covered!
Dietary Accommodations
We can accommodate gluten-free diets and vegetarian diets. Italy has a fantastic reputation for accommodating dietary restrictions and you will still be able to enjoy all of the luxurious food the region is known for, including gluten free lasagna, pizza, pasta, and even crepes!
Upgrades Available
Registration includes double occupancy accommodations.
If you prefer single occupancy, there is a $400 surcharge. You are given the option to upgrade to single occupancy after registration and will pay the surcharge separately.
Traveling w/ Spouse or Partner
The more the merrier! Spouses and partners are welcome to join us.
You will be sent a "Getting to Know You" form after registration. This form will ask you about roommate preferences; be sure to indicate your spouse/partner on that form.
Pay in Full
- 5 nights of double occupancy upscale accommodations
- All scheduled activities, tours, and workshops
- Travel within Italy
- Delicious meals for all 6 days
- Tips and gratuities for meals and all scheduled activities
- SAVE $350 off the regular price ($3,340) through April 30, 2021.
- Complete your registration in one easy payment AND save $350 off the regular registration cost of $3,340.
Pay in 3 Installments
- 5 nights of double occupancy upscale accommodations
- All scheduled activities, tours, and workshops
- Travel within Italy
- Delicious meals for all 6 days
- Tips and gratuities for meals and all scheduled activities
- SAVE $350 off the regular price ($3,340) through April 30, 2021.
- Spread your payments across 3 months while securing your space today with Early Bird Savings.
Pay in 6 Installments
- 5 nights of double occupancy upscale accommodations
- All scheduled activities, tours, and workshops
- Travel within Italy
- Delicious meals for all 6 days
- Tips and gratuities for meals and all scheduled activities
- SAVE $350 off the regular price ($3,340) through April 30, 2021.
- Hold your spot with flexible payments over time while enjoying early bird savings.