Travelling with Teens in Italy

From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the canals of Venice, it offers Instagram worthy posts around every corner. Italy also appeals to all types of teen travelers; the history buff, the adventurer and the foodie. Europe Expert and mother of three teens, Gwen gives us the inside scoop into why everyone should take their teens to Italy.

Italy is known as a favorite European destination for most travelers. But have you ever considered that it might be a favorite for your teens? Today’s teens are some of the best travelers out there; they are curious, their social media accounts keep them connected no matter where they are, their schoolwork is filled with more pressure than ever before and for parents, time with our teens is fleeting at best.

Explore beautiful cities like Florence

Teens will love discovering this diverse country

Gwen at the Leaning Tower of Pisa

My recent trip to Italy had me thinking about going back with my teens as soon as possible and here are the top reasons why:

First, most American students will study world history in middle school and again in high school. The ancient histories of the Roman and Greek empires permeate the required literature and history classes. There is no better way to bring these lessons to life than to travel to the source of the story. In Italy, the archaeological ruins, the dramatic art and the historical landmarks will give teenagers the feeling that they are in a live history class and the images that they have seen in their textbooks will come to life before their eyes. For example, in Rome, the Colosseum will take your breath away and your teenagers will be able to apply what they are learning in school as they walk in the footsteps of the ancient civilizations.

The Colosseum in Rome

Ruins will make history come to life

Second, the food. What is not to love about fresh Italian food? The homemade pasta, the hand tossed pizza and the gelato on every corner will surely delight even your pickiest eaters. Take a pizza making master class, a Tuscan inspired pasta cooking class or even a gelato making class as you taste your way through this foodie destination; each are sure to entertain your teens and to give them confidence in their cooking abilities!

Delicious gelato is everywhere in Italy

Who doesn't like authentic Italian pizza?

Take a fun family cooking class

Finally, Italy offers something for everyone. Maybe your son knows everything there is to know about Italian sports cars. If so, let us arrange a visit to the Ferrari museum and maybe even an afternoon driving through the Tuscan hills in your own private car.

Lovely Afternoon drive in Tuscany

Ferrari store in Milan

Or maybe your daughter has studied Italian art and design and an afternoon wandering the streets and museums of Florence is high on her bucket list. There are many opportunities to explore the Italian culture through hands-on experiences with your own private guide.

Teens will love Wandering the streets of Florence

Take in the incredible amount of art in Italy