Our Selection of à la carte Itineraries in Italy

DAY 1 COMO LAKE

Arrival at Milan Malpensa International Airport collect your car and transfer to your Hotel on Lake Como. Check-in to your accommodation with time at leisure to inhale the magic. Overnight on Lake Como.
Accommodation: Como Lake area for 3 nights

DAY 2 MILAN

Breakfast at the hotel before setting off for a drive to Milan. Enjoy a half-day private walking tour of the impressive city centre. Visiting the splendid Duomo Cathedral, which is a striking example of Gothic art and the largest Cathedral in Italy. An almost impossible feat to count the statues squeezed onto its rooftop and façade, there are in fact more than 3.200 of them even before you enter the interior. After the Duomo marvel move on to the stunning Vittorio Emanuele Shopping Gallery, a 19th century glass vaulted shopping arcade. Brimming with top fashion shops and cafés, it was used as the connecting pathway from the Cathedral to the famous La Scala opera house. Ensuring the ladies could stay dry on their way to the theatre in case of rain. At the end of the Gallery and in front of is Milan’s and one of the world’s most famous Opera House, La Scala theatre. Founded in 1778 patron to some of the world’s greatest musicians and opera singers such as Pavarotti, Maria Callas and Giuseppe Verdi. Drive back to Lake Como and overnight. (B)

DAY 3 LECCO - BELLAGIO

After breakfast, discover the Lake. A tour which takes you around the splendid coastal panoramas of Italy’s strikingly pretty lake. First stop in Lecco for a delicious coffee. Take the winding roads as far as beautiful Bellagio. Enjoy time to explore, take in the views and enjoy lunch. Meeting our expert Tour leader in the afternoon who will walk you through the pearls of the Lake. Duration approx. 1 hour leading you to partake in the beautiful boat tour at the end of the visit to discover Como’s unforgettable landscapes and magnificent views as far up as Varenna, known as the diamond of Lake Como. Enjoy some free time to visit the town and later a private transfer will take you to the Vezio Castle, where you will still live the medieval charm of its past and admire at full view of Lake Como from the beautiful terrace of the olive trees. Here you can relax and enjoy a fantastic aperitif with a superb view! Drive Back to your hotel and overnight on Lake Como. (B)

DAY 4 FRANCIACORTA - SIRMIONE

Final breakfast then departure to for a picturesque drive to Italy’s largest lake, Garda and the peninsular village of Sirmione. En route do not miss a stop at the famous vineyards area of Franciacorta, famous for their superb dry sparkling prosecco. Visit of the Cantine Berlucchi, where the famous Prosecco has been produced since 1961. Take time out for lunch then driving to Sirmione. The pearl of lake Garda a place to relax and enjoy the natural thermal sulphur hot springs. Overnight in Sirmione area. (B/T)
Accommodation: Garda Lake area for 2 nights

DAY 5 BARDOLINO - PESCHIERA

Morning departure to Bardolino on the Lake to visit a traditional wine cellar that produces excellent quality red Bardolino wine as well as white and sparkling wines. The vineyards are from the Bardolino estate. Visit the winery and sample the wines at the cellars. Enjoy a traditional lunch in a typical local restaurant. Free time to wander the pretty town. Afternoon drive to another excellent winery at Peschiera of Garda for more tasting. We then suggest a visit to beautiful little town centre of Peschiera and enjoy a walk along the lakefront. Return to your hotel and overnight. (B/T/L/T)

DAY 6 VERONA - TREVISO AREA

After breakfast, take the short drive to the city of Verona enjoying a guided excursion. Follow your guide through the old town and discover the Best of Verona, including the Arena, the famous Roman amphitheatre, and stroll around the old city and explore the magic of Medieval castle and the charming view of Juliet’s balcony as you wander the romantic and enchanting streets of Verona. Visit inside the Arena which is one of the biggest open-air theatres in the world and declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Time at leisure to enjoy lunch and afternoon departure to Treviso area or Asiago. Check-in, free time for dinner and overnight. (B)
Accommodation: Treviso area / Asiago for 2 nights

DAY 7 DOLOMITI BELLUNESI - MAROSTICA - BASSANO DEL GRAPPA

Departure for the hills of the Belluno in the Dolomites to arrive at Bassano del Grappa, at the foot of Mount Grappa, where the River Brenta flows into the River Po. Wander across the famous Alpine bridge built by the architect Palladio in the 16th century. Enjoy lunch at a typical Trattoria, a simple but delicious menu made from the local seasonal produce. Finish lunch and enjoy a very interesting tour of the Grappa Museum in the historical Grappa distillery. Taste some grappa and other local liqueurs and spirits. Free time. We suggest a visit also to the delightful city of Marostica, the city of Human Chess, wander around the old town centre and stop at the “La Casa Del Parmigiano” grocery store which sells over 200 different types of cheeses, olive oils, wines and the excellent cold cuts. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/L/T)

DAY 8 PADUA - VENICE

Drive to Padua, walk through the narrow streets of its old town, and admire the Renaissance grandeur of its main squares and the Byzantine domes of the St. Anthony shrine. Depart for Venice to arrive at Piazzale Roma, where you drop off your car at Piazzale Roma and transfer to your hotel by private water taxi. Accommodation in your hotel in Venice. Overnight stay. (B)
Accommodation: Venice Island for 2 nights

DAY 9 VENICE

After breakfast, morning visit of Venice to explore the city: St Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and its marvellous rooms, rich in history and decorated by incredible masterpieces made by great artists such as Tiepolo and Tiziano. The Golden staircase will leave you speechless: this was the main entrance to the halls of power where the Doge decided the fate of the Republic! Cross the Bridge of Sighs and go through the dark Venetian prisons, where many important figures were imprisoned, including Giacomo Casanova. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Venice. (B)

DAY 10 VENICE

After breakfast, checkout and transfer by private water taxi and car to Venice International airport for your return flight. (B)

DAY 1 PALERMO

Arrival to your hotel in Palermo. Time to settle in, and welcome dinner or in a typical local restaurant recommended by the hotel. (D)
Accommodation: Palermo for 3 nights

DAY 2 MARSALA - ERICE

Departure for Marsala, the city renowned for its wine production of the same name. Visit a winery in Rilievo (Trapani), for wine tasting. An experience that will change your concept of wine tourism. Free time to stroll through the centre of the old town. Lunch in a typical local restaurant. We suggest you proceed to Erice, a magnificent medieval city in a spectacular setting. Walk through the streets of the centre of the town and visit the Pasticceria Maria Grammatico, an old pastry shop that offers recipes from the Antico Convento. Try some of the typical local delights such as almond pastries filled with candied lemon, Cannoli, Zibbibo (local wine) and the famous “brutti ma buoni” (“ugly but tasty”) cookies. Return to the hotel. (B/T/L)

DAY 3 POLLINA - PALERMO

Morning departure for Pollina to visit a farmhouse. Stop for lunch. After lunch visit the farm and hear the extraordinary story of how the ancient pastries and desserts were prepared with the Manna (Slow Food Presidium), accompanied by some samples. Back to Palermo and free time to stroll around the streets in the centre of the city. We suggest you try the pastries at the Pasticceria Scimone, one of the oldest in the city that sells the famous cannoli, babà and lots more, and a visit to the Bottega dei Sapori and the Saperi della Legalità di Libera shop that sells the produce cultivated on lands confiscated from the Mafia, such as legumes, preserves and wines. (B/T)

DAY 4 AGRIGENTO - SYRACUSE

Departure for Agrigento for visit of the old city. Lunch at the typical restaurant downtown. In the afternoon a guided tour of the amazing Valley of the Temples, testament to the ancient Greek civilization in Sicily. Departure for the hotel in Syracuse area. (B/L)
Accommodation: Syracuse for 2 nights

DAY 5 RAGUSA - MODICA - SYRACUSE

We suggest a departure for Ragusa to visit the city built in a region that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its Sicilian style baroque architecture. The city is divided into two parts: the old city (called Ibla) and the new city. Proceed to Modica, the ancient capital of the county which once again is full of amazing examples of architecture that pay homage to the old Sicilian baroque style, where you will have a visit and tasting at the old pastry famous for chocolate. Departure for Syracuse and have dinner in a typical local restaurant in the historical town centre of Ortigia that includes some traditional dishes and local wines. (B/T/D)

DAY 6 SYRACUSE - MOUNT ETNA - TAORMINA

We suggest a tour of the city, one of the most important and strategic political centres in ancient Greece. Visit the archaeological park and walk around the heart of the old city, Ortigia. Departure for Taormina, stopping on route to visit a vineyard, where prestigious wines are produced, a real find in terms of wines from Etna. There will be a tasting accompanied by local produce. (B/T)
Accommodation: Taormina for 2 nights

DAY 7 TAORMINA

In the morning, a guided tour to discover Taormina, the small medieval village called “the pearl of the Ionian Sea” and visit to the Roman Greek theatre. Time at leisure for lunch, shopping and walk through the tiny streets. (B)

DAY 8 TAORMINA

After breakfast, checkout and departure. (B)

Legend: B=Buffet Breakfast / L= Lunch / D=Dinner / T=Tasting

DAY 1 ARRIVAL ROME - SABAUDIA

Arrival to your hotel in Sabaudia. Welcome to the Riviera of Ulysses! Time to settle in, for a stroll in the city discovering the very modern city and its “Rationalist” architecture within the Circeo National Park. The city was founded in 1934 after the drainage of the Pontine Marshes. Welcome dinner at the Hotel and overnight stay. (D)
Accommodation: Sabaudia at Hotel Oasi di Kufra 4* (or similar) for 6 nights

DAY 2 NINFA - CORI - SERMONETA

After breakfast, visit the splendid Garden of Ninfa, described by the New York Times as one of the most beautiful and romantic gardens in the world. Centenary plants and trees from various continents, fleshy fruits, dazzlingly-coloured flowers, the blue of the lavender, the many varieties of roses and gently flowing streams that run through it to form pleasant waterfalls are all features of the awe that awaits visitors. A scene that is made up of sounds, scents and the rustling of leaves that can be felt even with one’s eyes closed… Proceed to Cori and enjoy a beautiful experience of horse riding, then proceed to visit a winery for a tasting session. On the way back to your hotel, we suggest a visit of Sermoneta, one of the most fascinating and medieval villages in the whole Lazio region. The town appears suddenly beautiful, completely surrounded by fortress walls all perched on the hill which is covered in olive trees, surrounding the imposing Caetani castle. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B)

DAY 3 GAETA - SPERLONGA - TERRACINA

Morning departure after breakfast to Gaeta, known as the “city of a hundred churches”, Gaeta is a beautiful seaside town. The old centre of Gaeta is of medieval origin and is a must see. Known as Gaeta Vecchia, with its small streets and narrow alleys all characterized by scents and colours and of times gone by.Walking away from Gaeta Vecchia, another place to stroll to is Via Indipendenza and its surroundings. Time looks like it has come to a standstill, it is filled with beautiful houses where the balconies are full of plants, the clotheslines full of colourful laundry, quaint shops and little stalls are all part of normal tradition. Sample the local Tiella Gaetana, a savoury pie made with pizza dough and selection of various fillings! One of most remarkable places in Gaeta is the Split Mountain and the Turk’s Cave. The split mountain is at the western side of Mount Orlando, where the Sanctuary of SS. Trinity was built, also known as the Sanctuary of the Split Mountain. According to legend, when Jesus died on the cross, the Jerusalem temple veil was torn causing three deep cracks into the rock of what today is known as Split Mountain of Gaeta. Proceed to Sperlonga a small village of just under 4000 inhabitants during the winter and full of visitors and tourists in the summer months. Whitewashed houses clustered together on the steep clilmb, the streets are like stairways bringing you to surprising and unexpected little terraces overlooking sea. The old town is charming and a real pleasure to explore.  Free time to discover “The Pearl of the Terranean”. We suggest a visit of Terracina’s city centre and a visit to the “Emiliano Forum”, a short stretch along the ancient Appian way to the Cathedral of Saint Cesareo. Continue the tour with a visit to the Sanctuary of Mount Saint Angelo to see the ruins of the monumental Temple of Jupiter of Anxur and extraordinary views on the Pontine plain and the sea. In the afternoon visit of a local farm for wine tasting accompanied with delicious local products. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/T)

DAY 4 CASTRO DEI VOLSCI - MONTECASSINO ABBEY

Departure for Castro dei Volsci, a small town in the Ciociaria region, visit the old and well preserved hamlet recognized by its stone houses built into the hills of the tiny streets. Participate in a local Cookery lesson dedicated to the traditions of Ciociaria tradition followed by a tasty lunch. Afternoon departure to visit one of the most renowned Abbeys in the world, the “Abbey of Montecassino”. A Christian monastery where every religion can feel welcome and dignity through praying and working. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.  (B/C/L)

DAY 5 PONZA

After breakfast, departure from San Felice Circeo pier to Ponza, a simply perfect spot if you are looking for amazing beaches. Daily boat trip which sets of at the Boarding Area of Porto San Felice Circeo. Sail for about one hour to reach  Ponza where you can also board a private motorboat for a full day cruise of the Island, approx.. 5 hours. There are stops along the route for swimming and light lunch serviced on board which consists of a pasta plate and drinks. Explore the hamlet at your own pacie into the historical centre to discover the nature and history of Ponza, making a visit to the church of SS. Trinity and admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the island life. Alternatively enjoy the free time to rest, eat, or buy some souvenirs or swim at the Frontone Beach. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/L)

DAY 6 AMASENO (FOSSANOVA ABBEY) - SAN FELICE CIRCEO

Breakfast in Hotel then set off for a drive to the Amaseno Valley, “route of the buffalo mozzarella”. The Valley of the Amaseno is a lush, green area, untouched by pollution or industrialization, ideal for Cheese making. You will see the buffalo cattle in the fields and make a visit to one of the buffalo breeding farms to taste their exquisite cheese. On the return journey, we suggest a stop at Fossanova Village with its beautiful Abbey. Your day will end in San Felice Circeo, a splendid seaside resort situated on the Pontine coast, at the feet of Mount Circeo. According to the legend, it was here that Homer’s epic hero Ulysses was bewitched by the Sorceress Circe and imprisoned for over a year. Aperitif in local bar before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay.  (B/T/A)

DAY 7 DEPARTURE

After breakfast, checkout and departure. (B)

Legend: B=Buffet Breakfast / L= Lunch / C=Cooking & Lunch / A= Aperitif / D=Dinner / T=Tasting

DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN FLORENCE AREA

Arrival to the hotel near Florence. Time to settle in, welcome dinner and overnight. (D)
Accommodation: Rignano Sull’Arno (Florence) at Hotel Villa Il Palagio 4*, or similar for 6 nights

DAY 2 FLORENCE

Morning departure for Florence for a private guided tour. Walk through the historical centre of this amazing city and visit the Santa Croce church (outside), known as the “Pantheon of Italian Glories” where many illustrious Italians such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini and Machiavelli are buried. The visit also takes in the other religious buildings (the Baptistery, the Duomo and Giotto’s bell tower – outside) and the houses of power in the old city (the Piazza della Signoria). Lunch at a typical restaurant. Free afternoon to stroll along Florence’s elegant streets. We suggest a break at one of Florence’s oldest ice cream parlours, “Perché no!” that offers more than 33 different flavours and a precise selection of raw materials (including pistachios from Bronte, a Slow Food Presidium product, saffron and cardamom). Return to the hotel for the overnight stay. (B/L)

DAY 3 SIENA - SAN GIMIGNANO

In the morning, we suggest to visit Siena, one of the most important and most beautiful architecture in the city, including the Museum delle Contrade (each horse in the famous”Palio”, runs for a different Contrada or district). We suggest sampling some of delicious traditional desserts like the Panforte in one of the most famous pastry shops in town. Free time for shopping.  On the way to San Gimignano along the ancient Via Francigena, lunch with some of the traditional local produce such as the Certaldo onion (Slow Food Presidium), and the organic extra virgin olive oil from San Gimignano in a little family-run farmhouse. Visit and have a talk on the techniques used in producing organic olive oil. We suggest, in the afternoon, to visit the famous towers and the San Gimignano 1300 Museum: storyboards, multi-media exhibits, street scenes and a ceramic recreation of the city as it was back in 1300. Return to the hotel for your overnight stay. (B/L)

DAY 4 RADDA IN CHIANTI - GREVE IN CHIANTI

Entire day dedicated to the discovery of the Chianti hills along the Via Chiantigena (an ancient road connecting Siena with Florence crossing over the Chianti hills). Visit a winery in Radda in Chianti where you will meet the wine producer and visit to the cellars. At the end enjoy a wine tasting (included). Proceed to Greve in Chianti where we suggest visiting the little historical town centre. Stopping at the historical butchers “Falorni” where since the 1729 they produce the specialties of the local [norcineria], the Prosciutto Saporito (Cured Ham) di Greve and all the cured products also in the various versions of pork from the surrounding Senese hills as well as the wild boar, from the well-known Finocchiona to the Noble Salamis in Chianti, prepared with the noble parts of the pork, to the Salami to the Classical Chianti. Specialty: ‘Bistecca alla Fiorentina’ T-bone Florentine Steak, Italian veal. We suggest you have a little tasting of salami. We also suggest lunch at Trattoria Mangiando Mangiando. In the afternoon visit winery in Greve in Chianti for a wine and oil tasting (included). Return to the hotel for your overnight. (B/T/T)

DAY 5 MONTEPULCIANO - PIENZA

Morning departure for Montepulciano, one of the most characteristic and intact medieval cities in Italy which from a height of 605 metres above sea level offers amazing views over the surrounding hillsides. Visit a typical winery for a free tasting, and then explore the wonderful town centre of Montepulciano. For lunch, we suggest the old Osteria dell’Acquacheta, with its rustic and familial atmosphere. Here, you may sample some of Tuscany’s best recipes (such as the Pici all’Aglione). In the afternoon, proceed to Pienza, the perfect example of a renaissance city, famous for its Pecorino cheese. Visit a Pecorino cheese producer, learn something about the cheese-making process, and sample the fare (included). Return to the hotel for your overnight stay. (B/T)

DAY 6 MONTALCINO - FLORENCE

Morning departure for Montalcino, famous for its Brunello, one of the best red wines in the world. Montalcino, however, is also a beautiful art city, which dominates 3,000 hectares of vineyards (1,500 for Brunello alone). We suggest a visit to the Mastio della Rocca which is home to the Enoteca La Fortezza where it will be possible to buy some local products and the exceptional honey, a local specialty. Free time. Return to Florence area and join a cooking class dedicated to the Tuscany tradition, followed by dinner (included). (B/C/D)

DAY 7 FLORENCE

Breakfast. Transfer on your own to the airport or extend your stay in Italy. (B)

B=BUFFET BREAKFAST / L=LUNCH / D=DINNER / T=TASTING / C=COOKING LESSION

DAY 1 ARRIVAL SAN MARTINO IN CAMPO (PERUGIA)

Arrive at the hotel Posta dei Donini in San Martino in Campo, near Perugia. Time to settle in and enjoy Welcome Dinner in hotel with traditional products from Umbria. Overnight in Perugia. (D)
Accommodation: San Martino in Campo (Perugia), Historical Residence Alla Posta dei Donini 4*, or similar, for 5 nights

DAY 2 ORVIETO - TODI

Morning visit to Orvieto, situated on top of a rock offering the most spectacular of views. We suggest a tour of the city, including the Duomo Gothic Cathedral. Stop in Cantine Neri in Bardano, on the outskirts of Orvieto, a winery recognized for its quality and the local varieties present in the area for over a thousand years. Enticing wine tasting with local products and light lunch consisting of execellent Umbrian wines accompanied by local fayre. Before heading off we suggest a short visit to the Adriano pastry shop to try Orvieto’s typical cakes and desserts, including chocolates made with chillies and saffron. We suggest an afternoon visit to Todi, a splendid medieval town, where it is pleasant to wander around and discover the old monuments and craft shops. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/T/L)

DAY 3 MONTEFALCO - ASSISI - BEVAGNA

Departure to Montefalco, a splendid town situated on top of a hill, offering spectacular views over the hills. Visit the ancient olive groves – 3,000 plants – belonging to the Azienda Romanelli family, to discover the many plant varieties and the extra virgin olive oil production techniques, accompanied with a tasting. On the road to Assisi, we suggest you a stop in Bevagna, an ancient medieval town that has held on to its characteristics. Arriving in Assisi, we suggest you a visit of the town, including the Basilica of St Francis. Proceed to Caseificio Broccatelli for a cheese tasting. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.  (B/T)

DAY 4 TORGIANO - PERUGIA

Arrival in Torgiano to visit the Azienda Lungarotti, sample their extra virgin olive oil, and visit the MOO – Olive and Oil Museum. We suggest transfer to Perugia; perched on a hill, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. A visit to the Perugina chocolate museum, famous for its Baci Perugina chocolates. Free time to discover the old city. Stop off at the historical Pasticceria Sandri pastry shop. Dinner with the dishes from the traditional Umbrian cuisine at the Osteria I Birbi. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/T/D)

DAY 5 LAKE TRASIMENO, CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO

We suggest entire day to discover Lake Trasimeno, one of the largest in Italy, to visit some of the characteristic towns around the lake. Visit the Azienda Madrevite. Visit the cellars and take a pleasant stroll across the vineyards, sample the olive oils and typical products. Time to discover Castiglione del Lago, followed by dinner at the Trattoria l’Acquario, where traditional dishes, including the Fagiolina del Lago (Slow Food Presidium) will be served. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. (B/T/D)

DAY 6 DEPRTURE

After breakfast, checkout and departure. (B)

Legend: B= Breakfast / L= Lunch / D= Dinner / T= Tasting