Alumni World Travel

Alumni World Travel
Expanding Horizons Since 1977

My Account My Cart Contact Us 800.638.7640

12+ Days From $4396

Check Availability

University of Arkansas

Classic Europe Grad Trip

England - France - Italy - Vatican City - Greece

12+ Days From $4396

Check Availability

May 15 - 26, 2026

Graduate – Then Celebrate

Reward yourself with the ultimate 12-day European adventure! The Classic Europe grad trip blends culture, history, and adventure across stunning destinations. From London’s iconic landmarks to parasailing in Greece, experience the best of Europe. Stroll along the Seine in Paris, explore ancient Rome, relax on the beach in the dazzling French Riviera, and meander through the charming villages of Tuscany. Embrace new experiences, connect with great people, and return home with unforgettable memories.

This trip is designed for traditional-age graduates.

US departure date: May 15, 2026 | London land tour start date: May 16, 2026
Rome return date: May 26, 2026 | Athens return date: May 31, 2026

Trip Experiences: | Learn More

Deals
More Trips
Travel Tools
URL has been copied successfully!

Trip Highlights

ENGLAND

London (2 nights)

Welcome orientation * Guided Tour of London's Pomp & Pageantry * Eurostar train from London to Paris
FRANCE

Paris (2 nights) - French Riviera (2 nights)

French bistro dinner * Seine River cruise * Paris metro card * Guided tour of Paris * High-speed trains * Queen Resort of the Cote d'Azur, Nice * French Riviera brasserie dinner
ITALY & VATICAN CITY

Tuscan Countryside (2 nights) - Rome (2 nights) - Vatican City - Pompeii

Leaning tower of Pisa * Tuscan experience including Tuscan dinner * Chianti wine tasting * Guided visit of Rome and Vatican City * Admission to Colosseum and Roman Forum * Rome travel card * Pizza party
GREECE

Overnight Ferry (1 night) - Isle of Poros (3 nights) - Athens (1 night)

Tour of the Pompeii Archeological site * Overnight ship to Greece * Greek Island Center activities, including swimming, sunbathing and special Greek dinners * Bike ride * Toga party * Athens Acropolis and Plaka district * Farewell Greek taverna dinner...AND MUCH MORE!

What's Included

12-Day Land Package

Transportation and Lodging
- 10 nights in 3 and 4-star hotels, 2-share rooms with private bath/shower
- Intra-Europe transportation by air-conditioned motor coach as per itinerary
- Eurostar train from London to Paris
- High speed TGV train from Paris to Southern France
Meals
- 10 continental breakfasts
- 4 three-course specialty dinners, including:
  - French bistro dinner
  - Cote d’Azur French brasserie dinner
  - Tuscan dinner
  - Viva Italia pizza party in Trastevere
Activities & Admissions
- London welcome orientation and pub crawl
- 1-day group Tube Pass in London
- Guided tours in London, Paris and Rome, all led by local historians
- Seine River cruise in Paris
- Paris metro card
- The beaches of the French Riviera
- Tuscan experience
- Chianti wine tasting
- Admission to the Colosseum and Caesar’s Roman Forum
- Rome travel card providing unlimited access to public transportation
- See St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and much more…
Sights

See London’s Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, Tower Bridge; Paris’ Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral; Rome’s Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Leaning Tower of Pisa and much more…

5-Day Optional Extension

Transportation and Lodging
- 5 nights in 3 or 4-star hotels, 2-share rooms with private bath/shower – including overnight on ship from Italy to Greece (4-share cabins)
- All intra-Europe transportation by air-conditioned motor coach and overnight ship as per itinerary
Meals
- 5 continental breakfasts
- 3 three-course specialty dinners, including:
  - 1 traditional Greek dinner at a local restaurant
  - 1 Greek island farewell dinner
  - 1 Athens farewell taverna dinner
Admissions & Activities
- Guided tours in Pompeii and Athens, led by local historians
- Admission to Pompeii archeological site
- Bike rental on the Isle of Poros
- Greek Island stay
- Toga party
- Admission to Acropolis
Sights

Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii excavations, Athens’ Acropolis, Parthenon and much more…

Plus:

A private tour director for the entire duration of the land tour
All service charges and local taxes

Trip Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - FLIGHT TO ENGLAND

Embark on your overnight flight to London.

Meals: In-flight
Day 2 - LAND TOUR START DAY: LONDON
Enjoy a free afternoon to relax and unwind. In the evening, meet fellow travelers and your tour director at our welcome orientation followed by a fun London pub crawl.

Meals: In-flight
- Inclusions:
  
  Transfer from airport to hotel included with purchased AESU group airfare
  
  Welcome orientation
  
  Welcome cocktail
  
  Pub crawl
Day 3 - LONDON
Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey: These familiar names become familiar places on our morning tour of London. During an afternoon at leisure, browse the many food, craft and clothing stalls at popular Camden Market, walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter at Leadenhall Market aka Diagon Alley or take a ride on the London Eye for a birds-eye view of the city and the opportunity to take great photographs. After dusk, consider taking in some Shakespeare at the Globe Theater by the Thames River or attending a West End show.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  1-day group tube pass
  
  Tour of London guided by a local expert
  
  Personal audio headset
  
  See Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge and more
Day 4 - LONDON - PARIS
Travel through the “Chunnel” below the English Channel to Paris. Our local expert shows us the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood. Tonight, dine on French specialties at our bistro dinner. Afterward, we take a romantic cruise down the river Seine.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  English Channel Eurostar train
  
  Tour of Paris guided by a local historian
  
  See the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and more
  
  See Paris-by-night illuminations
  
  French bistro dinner
  
  Seine River cruise
Day 5 - PARIS
Enjoy a free day in Paris today. Join your tour director this morning on an optional visit to a French perfumery and museum. Afterwards, consider visiting the Palace of Versailles, Louis XIV’s residence with the stunning Hall of Mirrors, the world-famous Louvre, housing the Mona Lisa, Musée d’Orsay, or the Musée National Picasso. Your Paris metro card will provide access to public transportation throughout the city (zones 1-3). This evening you may opt to see a can-can cabaret show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  Paris metro card
- Optional activity:
  
  Optional visit to French perfumery and museum
  
  French cabaret show
Day 6 - PARIS - FRENCH RIVIERA
This morning, the TGV high-speed train takes us from Paris to Nice, queen resort of the Côte d’Azur. Enjoy your free afternoon on picturesque beaches along the Mediterranean coastline, stroll along promenades lined with chic boutiques, or unwind at a sidewalk café. The thriving local art scene and buzzing nightlife are yours to discover after tonight’s brasserie dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Inclusions:

High-speed train to Nice

See Promenade d’Anglais, Place Massena and more

French brasserie dinner
Day 7 - FRENCH RIVIERA
Enjoy a free day on the dazzling French Riviera. Relax on the beach, paddle in the azure sea, or sip on a smooth cocktail beneath swaying palms. Consider exploring Nice to visit the magnificent Palais Lascaris, the Cathédrale de Sainte Réparate and harbors filled with opulent yachts. Or you may opt to join our excursion to Monaco, where Prince Rainier married Hollywood actress Grace Kelly, and glitzy Cannes, known for its famous International Film Festival.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  See the French Riviera beaches & promenade
- Optional activity:
  
  Excursion to Monte Carlo & Cannes (not offered during Grand Prix)
Day 8 - FRENCH RIVIERA - PISA - TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE
Our journey takes us along the scenic Côte d’Azur’s sun-splashed beaches. We cross the border into Italy and arrive in Pisa with its stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Take time to admire the Baptistery, the Cathedral, and take selfies in front of the famous Leaning Tower. Now, immerse yourself in the magic of Tuscany. Travel along rolling hills of olive groves and vineyards crowned by castles and ancient abbeys. Renaissance culture is around every corner with hilltop towns unchanged from the Middle Ages. During free time this evening, relax at the hotel or explore the town with your travel companions.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  Private motor coach from the French Riviera to Tuscany
  
  See the scenic Côte D’Azur
  
  Visit to Pisa with its Leaning Tower
Day 9 - TUSCANY
Savor a day at leisure in the heart of Tuscany, where rolling vineyard-covered hills and picturesque countryside await your exploration. Spend your time meandering through the charming village and basking in the tranquil beauty of this iconic Italian region. Later, join us for a Chianti wine tasting and then savor regional dishes featuring produce and wines direct from the local farms. This region is also known for its fabulous farm-to-table agritourism.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  Chianti wine tasting
  
  Tuscan experience
  
  Tuscan Dinner
Day 10 - TUSCANY- ROME - VATICAN CITY
This morning we continue our travels south to the capital of Italy. Get ready to soak up Rome’s dolce vita lifestyle as we explore the city’s picturesque streets and piazzas with our local expert. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum or Caesar’s Roman Forum remind us of the city’s golden age as the capital of the world. Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica towering over the square, and colossal cathedrals throughout the city, tell stories of its history as seat of the Catholic Church.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  Tour of Rome and Vatican City guided by a local historian
  
  Personal audio headset
  
  See the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, Pantheon, Vatican City with St. Peter’s Basilica and more
  
  Admission to the Colosseum and Caesar’s Roman Forum
  
  Rome travel card providing unlimited access to local transportation
Day 11 - ROME - VATICAN CITY
A free day in Rome may find you exploring Piazza Navona, climbing the famous Spanish Steps, and tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome. Try numerous flavors of the fabulous gelato ice cream or find yourself window-dreaming on Via dei Condotti, one of Rome’s fashionable shopping streets. This evening, we cross the Tiber River to Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest neighborhoods, for our fun Italian Pizza Party. Toppings range from a simple drizzle of olive oil, rosemary, and salt, to mushrooms, prosciutto ham and artichokes. Buon appetito!

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  See Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and more
  
  Rome travel card providing unlimited access to local transportation
  
  Pizza Party in Trastevere
Day 12 - TRAVEL HOME - OR CONTINUE TO POMPEII & OVERNIGHT SHIP TO GREECE
For some of us the celebratory tour of Europe ends in Rome this morning. Bid farewell to friends and “arrivederci” to Italy before jetting back home with memories to last a lifetime. For the rest of us – sunny olive groves line the way south to Pompeii. Under the shadow of Vesuvius, the volcano that buried this ancient city in 79 A.D., explore the excavated wonders including homes, markets and temples that remain intact, and streets that still bear the marks of chariot wheels from 2,000 years ago. Afterwards, we cross the Italian “boot” and board our overnight ship to Greece.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  Transfer from hotel to airport included with purchased AESU group airfare
  
  Tour of the Pompeii excavations guided by a local historian
  
  Personal audio headset
  
  Scenic overnight ship from Italy to Greece
Day 13 - ISLE OF POROS
After cruising through the enchanting aquamarine waters, our ship arrives in Patras. From there, we’ll embark on a breathtaking journey along the stunning Corinthian Sea, ultimately arriving at Galatas and the charming island of Poros. Get ready to embrace three days of pure Greek god or goddess living. Start the adventure with a welcoming drink, then dive into exploring this idyllic island paradise. Tonight, prepare for a Greek culinary extravaganza at a charming local restaurant. Afterward, you might just find yourself dancing the night away, Zorba-style, at a lively local tavern.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  Relaxing pool and beach time
  
  Enjoy iconic Greek sunsets
  
  Welcome Cocktail
  
  Traditional Greek dinner at a local taverna
Day 14 - ISLE OF POROS
Today is all about having fun on your own terms. Dive into the sparkling waters for a refreshing swim, soak up the glorious sunshine, or get your adrenaline pumping with optional watersports like waterskiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, banana-boating, or tubing.

Meals: Breakfast
- Inclusions:
  
  Explore the white-washed village center of Poros
  
  Beach and pool
- Optional activity:
  
  Water sports
Day 15 - ISLE OF POROS
During free time today, get ready for some fantastic shopping in the old town center or, more adventurous souls may embark on a thrilling journey to the 6th-century BC ruins of Poseidon’s Temple perched atop the island’s highest peak. We’ll have bicycles at our disposal, opening up new avenues to discover the island’s treasures. And as the sun sets, get ready to join the fun at our epic toga party.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  Bike rental on the Isle of Poros
  
  Beach and pool
  
  Toga party
  
  Greek island farewell dinner
Day 16 - ISLE OF POROS - ATHENS
This morning, we hop on a ferry to Athens. Once we arrive, we’ll be in for a treat with visits to the awe-inspiring 2,400-year-old Parthenon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Constitution Square. During free time this afternoon, you might find yourself wandering in the footsteps of legends like Plato, Socrates, and Sophocles, or honing your bargaining skills at the vibrant markets of Monastiraki. And as the sun sets, follow the irresistible sounds of traditional bouzouki music and join us for a spectacular farewell taverna dinner in the Plaka District – Athens’ oldest neighborhood, right at the foot of the iconic Acropolis. It’s bound to be an unforgettable night of fun and feasting.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Inclusions:
  
  Tour of Athens guided by a local historian
  
  Acropolis admission
  
  Greek tavern farewell dinner
  
  Greek music and dancing
Day 17 - TRAVEL HOME
With a heavy heart, it’s time to bid adieu to Europe and our amazing new friends. As we jet back home, we let the excitement of planning our next alumni adventure fill our thoughts! The world is our playground, and there are countless adventures waiting for us to explore.

Meals: Breakfast, In-flight
- Inclusions:
  
  Transfer from hotel to airport included with purchased AESU group airfare

Hotels

We stay in 3 to 4 star hotels, all with private bath/shower in 2-share rooms. Our hotels have been specially selected for their European atmosphere, friendly hospitality, and cleanliness. Our hotels are centrally located or within a short walk of public transportation to take you to the landmark of your choice in the city you are visiting. (Why stay in remote cabins, hostels, or share your room with up to 6 people, when you can stay in a centrally located hotel?)

You’ll be given a complete hotel address list with your final documents. Properties are subject to change and any substitutions would be the equivalent of those listed. * If traveling solo and not wanting to pay the single supplement, AESU will attempt to arrange a share with a same-gender traveler. If a share cannot be arranged a single supplement will apply.

St. Giles Hotel

London, UK

St. Giles Hotel Central London is centrally located in Bloomsbury near the junction of Tottenham Court Road and Oxford Street, Rooms are well furnished with modern amenities such as TV, hairdryer, voicemail, telephone, safe and radio. WiFi is available at additional cost.
Ibis Paris Bastille Opera

Paris, France

The Ibis Hotel Bastille Opera is located in the city center, close to Place Bastille. It features a 24-hour reception, a French restaurant, a bar and air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen, satellite TV. Rooms are of a modern décor with parquet flooring, a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Free Wi-Fi access is provided. The accommodation also provides luggage storage, newspapers and a safety deposit box is available at reception. The hotel is in a short walking distance to Bastille Metro Station which provides direct access to Paris sights.
Hotel Monsigny

Nice, France

Located in the Liberation neighborhood, Hôtel Monsigny features air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi throughout the property. Every room is fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Each room includes a private bathroom with a supply of toiletries and a hairdryer. Take time to visit the amazing roof top bar & restaurant.
Grand Hotel Admiral Palace

Chianciano Terme, Siena

Located in the center of Chianciano Terme, the Grand Hotel Admiral Palace features rooms with contemporary decor, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi.
Domus Sessoriana

Rome, Italy

The Domus Sessoriana is a 3 star hotel in Rome derived from the ancient monastery adjacent to the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme . Unique in its kind, this hotel combines the charm of history that runs through it with the functionality of a hotel.
Superfast Ferries

Italy - Greece

Superfast Ferries, the youngest and fastest ferry fleet, welcomes you on board for an unforgettable traveling experience. While most of our groups travel on Superfast Ferries from Bari to Patras on their way from Italy to Greece, it is possible that due to ferry schedules or availability, vessels such as Maritime Way will be used from Bari or Brindisi. 4-share accommodations on all vessels.
Poros image Hotel

Poros, Greece

Xenia Poros Image Hotel is located on the picturesque beach of Neorio, just minutes away from Poros town. All the air-conditioned rooms have a balcony, free WiFi, hairdryer, cable-TV, radio, telephone, a comfortable seating area and a safe. There is a full-service restaurant, elegant “Green” bar and a beach bar.
Hotel Arion

Athens, Greece

The Arion Hotel is located within walking distance of Monastiraki Metro station and the Plaka area. This is a smoke-free hotel and has a 24-hour front desk and a computer station. WiFi is free in the common areas.

Optional Activities

Have it your way and personalize your trip by adding fun, optional activities. These activities are not included in your land package price to allow free time for those who want to explore on their own. Rates have been specially negotiated with the suppliers and will include transportation to and from the event, where applicable. All options are based on a minimum number of travelers participating. Rates listed are approximate rates in US$ and are subject to change. Contact your tour director upon arrival overseas to book and pay for your options. Payment to tour director in cash in local currency.

French Perfumery & Museum

$0

Located near the Opéra Garnier, the Musée du Parfum Fragonard offers a free guided tour exploring the history and craft of French perfume. Founded in 1926, the museum is a must-visit for fragrance lovers—ask your tour director in Europe to join.
Moulin Rouge French Can-Can Show

$210

Since 1889 the cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge is recognized world-wide because of its famous French can-can, immortalized by artist Toulouse-Lautrec. The above cost includes transfers by taxi, metro and/or motor coach, entrance to the "Féerie" show at 11:00pm, and one glass of champagne. Weekend show surcharge, approx. $15.
Cannes & Monte Carlo Excursion

$96

Experience the luxury of the French Riviera with visits to Cannes, Nice, and Monte Carlo—famous for designer boutiques, historic neighborhoods, and stunning coastal views. This full-day excursion includes round-trip motor coach, lunch en route, and free time to explore highlights like La Croisette, the Monte Carlo Casino, and Nice’s charming old town.
Watersports in Poros

$Variable

Enjoy watersport activities just a few steps away from the hotel on the Greek Island of Poros. From banana boats to wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing and parasailing - there is something for everyone to enjoy. Cost for watersport options will depend on the type of option you select. Book directly through your tour director on Poros Island.

Spring Sale!

Take advantage of this great discount when you book your Classic Europe Grad Trip and pay in full by January 27th, 2026.

Book the 17-day land package (London to Athens), pay in full and take $125 off by using promo code:

26CEU125SP

Book the 12-day land package (London to Rome), pay in full and take $100 off by using promo code:

26CEU100SP

ng promotions. Ensure your airfare is fully refundable or changeable until your tour is guaranteed or request an airfare quote from our reservations agent.

University of Arkansas

Classic Europe Grad Trip

England - France - Italy - Vatican City - Greece

Graduate – Then Celebrate

Trip Highlights

ENGLAND

FRANCE

ITALY & VATICAN CITY

GREECE

What's Included

12-Day Land Package

5-Day Optional Extension

Plus:

Trip Itinerary

Hotels

St. Giles Hotel

Ibis Paris Bastille Opera

Hotel Monsigny

Grand Hotel Admiral Palace

Domus Sessoriana

Superfast Ferries

Poros image Hotel

Hotel Arion

Optional Activities

French Perfumery & Museum

Moulin Rouge French Can-Can Show

Cannes & Monte Carlo Excursion

Watersports in Poros

Spring Sale!

26CEU125SP

26CEU100SP