Breathtaking. Iconic. Timeless. There are many words that can be used to describe Italy’s capital, but none that can fully encompass the city’s influence on the world as we know it today. Considered to be the cradle of Western civilisation and Christianity, Rome holds a treasure trove of relevant educational opportunities for your students no matter their learning objective, which is what makes it one of our favourite school trip destinations.

From ancient sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum to world-class museums such as the National Gallery and Vatican Museum, Rome spoils school groups with an unbeatable blend of history, culture, and art to make up the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Planning a trip to a city as vast and diverse as Rome can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll enable you to plan your itinerary and expenses with precision as we explore all the possible learning objectives that can be covered by a trip to Rome, suggest free activities to fill out your itinerary with, and give everyday costs you’re likely to encounter. Get ready to uncover the educational wonders of the Eternal City with our comprehensive guide to an exceptional school trip to Rome.

 

Learning objectives covered by a Rome school trip

Art & design

Art & design students will find Rome to be a captivating destination for a school trip, as the city’s attractions allows them to fully immerse themselves in art and culture. Begin at the National Gallery, where they can study masterpieces by Goya, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Kandinsky, then head to The Vatican for the undeniable highlight of the trip: the Sistine Chapel, a testament to Michelangelo's four-year labour.

Find out more about our art & design school trips to Rome


Classics

As the former epicentre of the world's greatest empire, Rome is an educational haven for a Classics school trip. Students will be awestruck by ancient sites frequented by Rome's greatest thinkers and writers, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Circus Maximus. Through a range of excursions, your group can delve into the culture, literature, architecture, political institutions, development of democracy, and daily life of the Roman Empire.

Find out more about our classics school trips to Rome.


History

The captivating history of Rome is ready to be uncovered in a history school trip. From the origins of the Renaissance movement, where students can admire the works of pioneers like Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello, to darker periods in Rome under fascism, our history school trip to Rome guarantees students will gain a profound appreciation for the city's significant role in world history.

Find out more about our history school trips to Rome.


Religious studies

Explore the religious heritage of Rome on a captivating Religious Studies school trip. At the heart of the city lies Vatican City, the world centre of the Catholic Church. Students can delve into the religion's 2,000-year history and witness the stunning frescoes of St. Peter's Basilica up close. Throughout the Eternal City, numerous places of worship provide ample opportunities to deepen your group's knowledge of religion and tradition.

Find out more about our religious studies school trips to Rome.

 

Dual-destination options

Rome & Sorrento – Classics

Where else can Roman life be bought to life so vividly and effortlessly than on a classics school trip to Rome and Sorrento? Pupils taking this two-centre package gain a valuable insight into life in both Rome and the outlying regions that supplied the city. By exploring the wonderfully rich layers of Roman life preserved in Rome, Sorrento, and the surrounding area, your group will have plenty of source material to compare the different lives of the Roman Empire – from emperors through to farmers and slaves.

Find out more about our classics school trips to Rome & Sorrento

 

Free things to do in Rome for schools

These free activities in Rome provide students with a chance to explore the city's rich history, art, and culture –without breaking the bank.

 

Trevi Fountain

An enchanting masterpiece of Baroque art, the Trevi Fountain is a must-see attraction in Rome. Students can toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish, while taking in the grandeur of the sculpture and the sound of the cascading water.

 

Spanish Steps

Located in the heart of Rome, the Spanish Steps are a popular gathering spot. Here, students can climb the iconic steps, enjoy the panoramic views of the city, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Piazza di Spagna.

Villa Borghese Gardens

Escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Villa Borghese Gardens. Your group will love having leisure time to stroll through the expansive green spaces, admire the stunning sculptures and fountains, and even have a picnic while enjoying the serenity of nature.

Piazza Navona

A lively square filled with stunning Baroque architecture, Piazza Navona is a feast for the eyes. Students can explore the square, marvel at the ornate fountains, watch street performers, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic gathering place.

Trastevere

Cross the Tiber River to reach the charming neighbourhood of Trastevere – home to narrow, picturesque streets, hidden gems, and authentic Roman atmosphere. Groups can also visit the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church, known for its stunning mosaics.

Roman Forum

Delve into ancient Roman history by exploring the Roman Forum. Students can walk amidst the ruins of temples, arches, and ancient buildings, gaining a glimpse into the daily life of the Roman Empire. With free entry, it's an archaeological wonderland waiting to be discovered.

Saint Peter's Basilica

While entry to the Vatican Museums requires a fee, students can visit Saint Peter's Basilica for free. They can marvel at the grandeur of the largest church in the world, admire the intricate artwork, and perhaps even attend a papal audience or Mass, depending on the schedule.

How much do every day items cost in Rome? (2023)?

1. Single metro ticket (AB zone): €1.50 (children up to 10 years old travel free when accompanied by a paying adult)
2. Coffee: €1.50
3. Burger and fries in a fast food restaurant: €7-9
4. Slice of pizza: €2-4 (depending on toppings)
5. Gelato (two scoops): €2.50

Ready to book your school trip to Rome?

From art and design to history, classics, and religious studies, Rome school trips offer a wealth of educational opportunities that will leave a lasting impact on your students. The best part? The Italian capital accommodates all budgets, with plenty of free attractions allowing your group to delve deeper into the city's history.

To find out more about our school trips to Rome, or enquire about booking a school trip, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.