Language, Culture, and the Historic Charm of Lucca’s Medieval City Walls
Study and live la dolce vita in Lucca Italy with the Studentessa Matta: where language isn’t just learned, it’s lived.
Small groups, big adventures!
Master Italian in the Heart of Italy, Where Every Alley and Plaza Becomes a Classroom! Dive into the Language with Studentessa Matta Beyond the Books—Through Joy, Espresso, and the Everyday Pulse of Life!
10 Days/9 Nights of Cultural Immersion: 20 Hours of Language Courses, 6 Dinners, and Cozy Accommodations. Enjoy Tailored Excursions & Activities, Led by Melissa and the Expert Teachers from Lucca Italian School. Engage in Unlimited Italian Conversation & Learning Opportunities!
2024 Matta & Lucca Italian School Language Program
DATES: September 26 – October 5, 2024
WHERE: Lucca, Italy in Tuscany
Maximum 8 participants
PRICE: $4,500
Couples and Solo Travelers All Welcome!
Secure Your Place with a $500 Deposit
Welcoming Language Learners of All Levels: From BEGINNER to ADVANCED
The Matta & Lucca Italian School welcomes learners at all levels of Italian proficiency. Students are thoughtfully grouped according to their skill level, ensuring a collaborative learning experience with international peers. For More Information, please Contact Melissa
Boost Your Italian Amidst Tuscany’s Splendor
Join Us in Lucca for an Unforgettable Cultural and Language Journey
Join Melissa and the teachers at Lucca Italian School!
Dive into a unique blend of language and culture, amidst a vibrant community of eager learners in a friendly, relaxed setting. Together, Melissa and her colleagues at the school are developing an immersive program designed not only to boost your Italian proficiency but also to deeply connect you with Italian culture. Set in the charming city of Lucca, encircled by its walls, our program transcends conventional language learning, providing a true taste of ‘Lucchese’ living. Grab this remarkable opportunity to enhance your Italian within the stunning allure of Tuscany!”
Morning Italian Course: Sharpen your grammar, engage in interactive games, enhance conversation, and boost listening skills in a vibrant learning environment.
Afternoon Excursions & Activities with Melissa: Extend learning outside the classroom. Engage in real-life Italian through encounters with locals, from artists to chefs, enriching your conversational and listening abilities.
2024 Accommodation Options for the Matta and Lucca School Italian Program
For the 2024 Matta and Lucca Italian Program, participants will enjoy staying in private apartments nestled within the historic walls of Lucca’s city center, conveniently close to Lucca Italian School. Accommodations are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing early registrants the privilege of selecting their preferred apartment.
Apartment in the Anfiteatro!
Ideal for a couple, an individual, or two friends, this apartment is situated in the iconic Anfiteatro of Lucca. A unique opportunity to stay in one of the city’s most historic and picturesque locations.
Apartment 5 steps from school!
Ideal for a couple, an individual, this modern apartment with balcony is situated in a private garden next to Lucca Italian School.
Two Apartments in Via del Fosso – Stellario
A cozy studio flat perfectly suited for an individual or a couple, located on Via del Fosso – Stellario. This charming space offers comfort and convenience for those seeking an intimate stay in Lucca.
Apartment in Botanical Gardens
Located in a charming historic building, this apartment features two bedrooms & two bathrooms
Apartment in Porta Santa Maria
Situated near Porta Santa Maria, this apartment boasts 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, making it a versatile choice for a solo traveler, two individuals, or a couple. Its spacious layout and comfortable amenities provide a homey base from which to experience the enchanting city of Lucca. Directly in front of the apartment building is one of Lucca’s famous fountains that you can fill up your water bottles from!
Apartment in Porta Santa Maria
This apartment, located near Porta Santa Maria, is an ideal retreat for either one person or a couple. Offering a serene and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a perfect base for exploring Lucca and immersing yourself in its rich culture and history.
Apartment in Porta Santa Maria
Perfectly positioned next to the school, this apartment is a tranquil haven for either a solo adventurer or a couple. With its peaceful and inviting ambiance, it serves as an ideal launching point for discovering Lucca’s vibrant culture and historical treasures.
Explore Lucca with ‘la Matta’ to learn more than just a language – immerse yourself in culture, history, and local charm, all while making lifelong connections.
2024 Matta & Lucca Italian School Language Program Details
Dates:
September 26 – October 5, 2024
Reservation Information:
Availability is on a first-come-first-served basis.
A reservation is confirmed only upon receipt of a $500 non-refundable deposit or full payment.
Reservations are open until September 1, 2024. Post this date, accommodation at the Antiche Mura Bed & Breakfast cannot be guaranteed, although we will assist in finding alternative housing (note: prices may vary).
Payment Details:
The remaining balance of the trip fee is due by July 28, 2024, approximately 60 days before the start of the program.
The option to pay the total trip fee at the time of booking is available.
Travel Insurance:
For peace of mind and to protect your investment in the event of a personal emergency or significant life event preventing travel, we recommend considering travel insurance from providers like Travel Guard, AAA, or American Express.
Master Italian in its native setting, perfect its prose over espressos, and dive into la dolce vita with ‘la Matta’!
2024 Matta & Lucca Italian School Language Program Itinerary
Thursday, September 26: (Day 1) Participants Arrive in Lucca
- 5:00 pm – Guided Walking Tour of Lucca’s Churches and Neighborhoods with Melissa & Lucca Italian School Teacher
- 7:00 pm – Welcome Group Dinner at a Trattoria in Centro
Friday, September 27: (Day 2)
- 12:00 – 3:00 pm – Wine Tasting and Lunch in the Hills outside Lucca
- 7:00 pm – Optional Aperitivo in Anfiteatro
- 8:00 pm – Free Choice Dinner in Anfiteatro
Saturday, September 28: (Day 3)
- 9:00 am – Cooking Lesson with Eva, Market Visit & Meal Preparation
- 1:00 pm – Group Lunch with What We’ve Prepared
Sunday, September 29: (Day 4)
- 9:00 am – 3:00 pm – Excursion to Villa Medicea in Cerreto Guidi & Visit to Vinci and Museo di Leonardo
- Group Lunch in Vinci
Monday, September 30: (Day 5)
- 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – Language Classes at Lucca Italian School
- Free Afternoon / Rest / Shop / Bike Lucca’s Wall
- Personal Choice Dinner
Tuesday, October 1: (Day 6)
- 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – Language Classes at Lucca Italian School
- 4:00 pm – Art / Painting Lesson with Suzanna
- 7:00 pm – Group Dinner at a Trattoria in Centro
Wednesday, October 2: (Day 7)
- 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – Language Classes at Lucca Italian School
- 3:00 pm – Visit Local Artisans “Una degustazione olafattiva” — perfume workshop
- 7:00 pm – Group Dinner at a Trattoria in Centro
Thursday, October 3: (Day 8)
- 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – Language Classes at Lucca Italian School
- 3:00 pm – Visit to Certosa di Calci
- Personal Choice Dinner
Friday, October 4: (Day 9)
- 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – Language Classes at Lucca Italian School
- Free Afternoon
- Farewell Group Dinner
Saturday, October 5:
- Baci & Abbracci / Departures.
Activities and schedule may adjust slightly; final details provided a month prior.
Getting to Lucca
Lucca is conveniently located between Pisa and Florence. Both airports offer easy access to the city, with frequent train services running between them hourly. Melissa is available to assist with coordinating shared transportation from Florence or Rome closer to the trip start date, once she has everyone’s flight schedules. Additionally, arrangements can be made for a shared group van back to Florence or Pisa (or even Rome) at the conclusion of the program. Please note that transportation to Lucca via hired van will be an out-of-pocket expense.
Reserve Your Spot:
2024 Lucca Italian School Language Program
Secure your place in the 2024 Lucca Italian School Language Program by completing the deposit/reservation form. Upon submitting this form, you will be directed to a new page to continue the enrollment process.
Please ensure you:
Complete all required fields in the subsequent Trip Forms.
Sign all necessary waivers to participate fully in the program.
Submit your forms to finalize your enrollment in the program.
We’re excited to welcome you to this unique learning experience in Lucca. Thank you for choosing to embark on this language and cultural adventure with us!
Please Read the Studentessa Matta Travel Philosophy
The Studentessa Matta Travel Philosophy embodies a love for the Italian language and culture, focusing on immersive learning experiences that connect the heart, mind, and soul. This philosophy champions:
Passionate Exploration: A deep love for Italy drives every journey, encouraging travelers to dive into the country’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Social Connectivity: Emphasizing the importance of making new friends, the philosophy values social interactions, whether through casual encounters or shared experiences, enriching the travel experience.
Sharing the Journey: Documenting travels through photos and videos and sharing these moments on various social media platforms like the Matta blog, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter feeds, invites others to join in the adventure virtually.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Recognizing that travel comes with its set of unpredictable challenges, this philosophy champions flexibility and a positive outlook, transforming potential obstacles into opportunities for unique experiences.
The Joy of the Unexpected: The belief that the unpredictable elements of travel contribute to its charm, encouraging travelers to embrace spontaneity, whether it’s dealing with delays or weather changes, with the perspective that every moment is part of the Italian adventure.
Packing a Sense of Humor: A reminder that a good attitude and a sense of humor are as essential as practical walking shoes, ensuring that every situation, no matter how challenging, can be navigated with grace and positivity.
Direct Communication: Urges travelers to communicate any issues or concerns directly during their stay, allowing for real-time solutions and ensuring a fulfilling travel experience.
Invitation to Adventure: This philosophy extends an open invitation to those ready to embark on an Italian adventure, promising not just a journey across a country but a journey of personal growth, language acquisition, and lasting friendships.
The Studentessa Matta Travel Philosophy is more than just a way to travel; it’s a way to live fully immersed in the beauty of Italy, its language, and its culture, turning every trip into a rewarding, unforgettable experience. If this resonates with you, then
Andiamo in Italia! Let’s go to Italy!