Overview
Take your ensemble on a thrilling performance tour through the beautiful Italian countryside, making stops in Milan, Parma, Pesaro, and that immortal city of Romeo & Juliet, Verona. Your musicians will explore iconic landmarks including the Duomo di Milano and the Basilica of San Vitale, visit the museum dedicated to renowned conductor Arturo Toscanini, and perform for international audiences.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to Italy (Milan)
Day 2
Arrive in Milan
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Milan city walk
La Scala opera house, Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Day 3
Travel to Parma
Violin Museum visit
Explore the Stradivarius Museum and the Palazzo Communale to see some of the most famous and priceless violins in the world.
Birthplace of Arturo Toscanini Museum visit
Learn about the life and career of renowned conductor Arturo Toscanini through his personal belongings, musical memorabilia, and exhibits on how his legacy shaped orchestral performances worldwide.
Parma performance
Choirs often enjoy performances at churches (some have restricted sacred repertoire and others allow secular,) temples, museums and cultural centres, significant historic sights or exchange concerts with local schools, universities or community groups.
Day 4
Busseto and Mantua excursion
Villa Verdi visit, Busseto city walk, Mantua city walk, Palazzo Ducale visit
Day 5
Lucca excursion
Lucca's peaceful narrow lanes wind among medieval buildings, churches, tiny piazzas, and Roman ruins, taking visitors on a true journey through the town's long history. Founded as a Roman colony in 180 BCE, the city centre was shut off from traffic in the 17th century, making it a pleasant place to wander and explore. Make sure to wander past the statue of Giacomo Puccini, who was born in this idyllic place. His home has been transformed into the Puccini museum!
Parma performance
Choirs often enjoy performances at churches (some have restricted sacred repertoire and others allow secular,) temples, museums and cultural centres, significant historic sights or exchange concerts with local schools, universities or community groups.
Day 6
Travel to Pesaro via San Marino
Pesaro performance
Take the stage and perform for local audiences in a venue that captures the spirit of the city.
Day 7
Travel to Verona via Ravenna
Oratory of Galla Placidia visit
Discover the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a 5th century chapel that contains exceptional mosaics dating from antiquity. Translucent panels bring the mosaics alive in all their grace and harmony, vivid with peacock blue, moss green, Roman gold, aubergine, and burnt orange. Visit the octagonal-domed Museum and Basilica of San Vitale, which dates from the mid-6th century. The mosaics inside, among the most celebrated in the Western world, are done in brilliant greens and golds.
Basilica of San Vitale visit
Visiting the Basilica of San Vitale offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Byzantine art and architecture, highlighted by its stunning mosaics and intricate design.
Day 8
Roman Arena visit
Step back in time as you explore this well-preserved, ancient amphitheater and learn about its cultural significance in Roman entertainment and architecture, and how it hosts musical performances today.
Travel to Milan
Day 9
Flight home from Milan
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Free academic credit for eligible Ontario-based students. Ask your Program Consultant for details.
Scenes from Northern Italy
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.