Italy with grandson 18

If you want to introduce him to a university setting, you might consider Bologna or Siena. Bologna is mostly Italian students and Siena is mostly foreign students. Bonus for Bologna is that the food is amazing. Perugia also has a big university for foreign students, but I haven't been there except to pass through on a train.

Have you asked him what he'd like to do and see? I hope he's doing lots of research on this tripl It's HIS trip, too. He should have an investment in it; otherwise, you're just dragging him from one site to another. That works better if he's 4...;-) Does he have any particular interests: hobbies, 'causes', Ferraris/fast cars in general, is he a Bach fanatic, etc.? What kind of things are you thinking he might want/not want to do after the 21st? I ask, because at 18 I would have been thrilled with all of the 'adult' things to see and do; I didn't want to shop (except for a few souvenirs), or hang out in discos, or skateboard with the locals, etc. You might want to look through some other guidebooks like "Let's Go" that are geared towards younger travelers, although he might fall through the crack between 'kids' and 'college students'...Then have HIM read what you've found! Lastly...in general, have you discussed things such as - will he be allowed to drink alcohol, will he be allowed to go off on his own from time to time (if he wants), is he bringing his phone/CD player/etc. and if so how much time will he spend on these devices? Many adults (esp. grandparents/aunts & uncles) have been sorely disappointed by 'their' child's behavior: sulking when not connected 24/7 with the USA :-( when all you wanted to do was give them this wonderful gift of showing them a tiny part of their world... Just ask him what HE'D like! He might settle your question within 15 minutes of chatting about it!

From my own experience with two daughters I find that you don't want to overbook them. While you want to show them everything, for them sometimes the experience is to watch and just absorb the scene. Evenings are great as they will see more young adults even if they are not interacting with them. Sitting with a gelato or tasting that pastry is more fun than yet another church. They also like some private time and sometimes need a morning to sleep in a bit. Some access to the internet I'm sure will be appreciated. Mine definitely prefer cities to charming countrysides. He may enjoy being the photographer for the trip. What a wonderful time and great memories you'll all have.

Eileen and Karen Thanks for your help. We have sent your comments to our grandson and asked him what he'd like to do and see. Also research the three areas we're considering visiting; Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome.
We'll look through our Rick's guidebooks and "Lets Go".

Three great choices. In Rome we stay in Campo d'Fiori or Piazza Navonna for the historic location, lively evenings and NO CARS. I'm sure he'll love the Forum and Colessium. I certainly wouldn't want him on his own at night there though. In CT he may be able to meet other kids his age in a more relaxed setting.

If he finds a friend in Rome, I'd let him go out at night (especially if you're in Campo D'Fiori area or Piazza Navona). I was 19 last year AND female and went out with just one other friend, had no problems. You just need to stay mostly sober, keep your wallet safe. There's an Irish bar called Abbey Theatre that's in that area that he may enjoy.