3-Week Culinary & Cultural Journey Through Italy

Early Evening/Evening

San Polo District

The graceful arch of the Rialto Bridge is perhaps the single most iconic sight in Venice since nearly everyone passes beneath it on their journey along the Grand Canal. It connects Venice's two most visited districts, San Marco and San Polo. While San Marco is famous for St. Mark's Square, San Polo more than holds its own as a must-see destination, as it contains some of the city's oldest neighborhoods and most picturesque canals and bridges. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in Venice, and admittedly some of its worst tourist traps as well. Among many highlights is the bustling Rialto Market, which was once one of medieval Europe's busiest financial and trade markets, and still does a brisk trade in fresh seafood and produce.

1:15 PM - 4:15 PM

'First Walk', Guided Tour in Venice

If you are a first-time visitor to Venice, the best approach is an introductory tour. This 3-hour private guided walking excursion begins with a selection of the “must sees,” including St. Mark's Square, the former political center of the Venetian Republic, with its many famous buildings: the Doges' Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Marciana Library, the Bell Tower, and the Clock Tower. You'll end your tour in the Rialto neighborhood next to the famous Rialto Bridge.

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Culinary Experience

Make your stay in Venice memorable, and indulge in delicious Venetian food and fruity Veneto wines! The goal of this four-hour guided tour is to provide a first-hand culinary experience and show you all the different processes used for several dishes, all under the supervision of a food expert who will be pleased to impart their knowledge to you in the comfort of a private home.

Morning to Late Afternoon

Bologna

Located only a short train ride away, this off-the-tourist-radar city is one of Italy's best surprises. Apart from being the source of the inexpensive deli meat and the spaghetti dish, Bologna is probably best known as the home of the oldest university in the world. Its historic center contains two medieval towers that lean similarly to the tower in Pisa, one of which is still accessible and provides amazing views of the city. The main basilica, old town hall and other structures around the old town are equally awe-inspiring. The city is also rightly famous for its over 25 miles (40km) of covered walkways, which serve as the open-air salons of the city. That includes the longest portico in the world. At nearly 4 kilometers (2.5m) in length and with 666 arches, the Portico di San Luca leads up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca, where you can enjoy another great view of the city, as well as of the surrounding countryside.

8:55 AM

Transfer to Rail Station

Because it's impossible to travel by a land taxi in Venice you will need to take a water bus (Vaporetto) from the nearest dock on the Grand Canal to Santa Lucia train station. You can use a Venezia Unica card or other travel pass, or simply buy a one-way ticket on the spot. If you do not want to take the Vaporetto, you can arrange a private transfer by water taxi or ask your hotel front desk to arrange one for you. Be sure to give your front desk some advance notice though, as it can be difficult to get a water taxi on the spot. Water taxis are expensive (about 75 EUR +), but they should be able to pick you up much closer to your place of lodging, or if your hotel has its own dock, directly from the dock.

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Half Day Excursion to San Gimignano & Vineyard Lunch

Drive through the scenic Tuscan countryside to San Gimignano, one of the most charming and picturesque Tuscan hill towns with medieval towers built for the richest families of the time. You can choose to visit the Cathedral, climb the “Torre Grossa”, take pictures of the gorgeous landscape and enjoy a delicious gelato in the Cistern Square. After, you will be driven to a local Tuscan winery for lunch and some wine tasting.   IMPORTANT NOTE : This excursion does not include a guide, only a driver.

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Cooking Class

Tuscany is blessed with the perfect climate and location for food, producing a diverse bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables, wild game, beef & pork, and seafood. In fact, when you consider the quality of ingredients produced here, you understand why Tuscan cooking is not just about recipes, but about bringing out the best of the ingredients. Even within Italy, Tuscany is renowned for its cuisine. Taking a cooking class can introduce you to the magic, teaching you how to make traditional Tuscan starters, pastas, main courses, and deserts.

Early Morning/Morning

Uffizi Gallery

As the capital of the Renaissance, it's only fitting that Florence should also host Italy's greatest art gallery at the Uffizi. It's understandably busy throughout the year, but it's nevertheless worth the crowds to see to see some of the most sumptuous masterpieces of Renaissance art, including Botticelli's Primavera and Venus, and works by Michelangelo and Da Vinci. If you're planning to visit other galleries and museums in Florence, then it's definitely worth investing in a Firenze Card, which gives you free entry and priority access to 72 venues in the city. At a minimum, you should book ahead for the Uffizi to avoid very long queues.

7:35 AM

Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Firenza S.M.N. (i.e. Florence Santa Maria Novella Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option; trams and buses drop off next to the station. Uber is available in Florence, and if staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Ancient Rome Guided Walk

On this 3-hour private guided tour, you will explore the imposing remains of ancient Rome. Your guide will explain the extraordinary history of the birth of Rome, life in the city and everything about the fall of the Empire. Visit the Colosseum, the monumental ruins of the Roman Forum, and end the tour on the Capitoline Hill, the smallest and most important of the seven hills of Ancient Rome.

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Guided Vatican Tour

Experience the millenary history of the Roman Catholic Church and its vast art treasures on this four-hour private guided tour of the Vatican City. Visit the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel before ending your tour in Saint Peter’s Basilica, the most important Catholic Church in the world, a ‘magnet’ that attracts millons of visitors and pilgrims every year. Note: Entry tickets to the Vatican Museum are non-refundable from the time of trip confirmation.

Morning/Mid-Day

Esquilino District

Upon first glance, this urban neighborhood of Rome may seem busy and overwhelming, but hidden among its traffic-noisy streets are some of Rome's most beautiful churches, artistic treasures, and cultural museums, including the Baths of Diocletian.

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Ostia Antica

Just 20 miles from Rome lies one of the largest and most interesting excavation sites and preserved ruins of the Roman Empire outside of Pompeii; the former port city of Ostia Antica. As one of Rome’s most overlooked and undervalued site by tourists visiting the city, it's a must-do day trip for anyone interested in the Roman history and life as it was in one of Rome's original port cities. It is especially nice to be able to enjoy the ruins in quiet and contemplation without the crowds which fill the ruins of Pompeii. Getting there is easy. A suburban commuter train service (or overground metro) runs several times an hour from central Rome to the coast and stops at Ostia Antica station. Since the train is part of Rome's Metro Network, you won't even need to purchase additional tickets if you have a Roma Pass.

8:55 AM

Private Transfer to Rome Train Station

A private transfer service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Rome Termini Train Station. Your itinerary will provide detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.

Morning to Afternoon

Monterosso

The northernmost village, Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five towns in Cinque Terre. Situated in the centre of a small natural gulf, it is also the most populated village of the Cinque Terre. During your visit, explore this quaint old-world town with its crooked lanes, churches, viewpoints and beaches. If you are looking to take a swim or just relax by the water, keep in mind that Monterosso also has the best and largest beach in Cinque Terre. Monterosso is easily reached by taking the Cinque Terre Express train, or if you are feeling more adventurous, by hiking up the coast.

Morning/Mid-Day

Corniglia

Located on top of a 100-meter promontory, Corniglia is the highest of the five villages and is surrounded by a sea of olive trees and vineyards. Corniglia is the only village not to be sat on the water, and it is the least visited town in Cinque Terre, making it the perfect option for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a spot of peace and quiet amongst its shaded lanes.  Due to its location on top of the hill, Corniglia's train station isn't located in the heart of the town like the other 4 towns in Cinque Terre. Instead, you have to take a local shuttle to the top or if you are brave enough, you can tackle the “Lardarina”, a long brick flight of steps composed of 33 flights with 382 steps! Roughly a 20 minute walk uphill. The route by stairs is very clearly marked from the train station. Begin walking down the main street called Via Fieschi and you'll immediately notice three things; fewer tourists, the scent of lemons, and multiple gelato shops! Souvenir shops adorn their doors and outdoor baskets with locally-grown lemon products, such as hand-made soups. A great way to keep the whole family happy is the Granita Limone, a slushy like cold frozen drink which can be eaten like ice cream or with a warm brioche (bread).

To Be Determined

Transfer to Rail Station

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Walk in Milan

Milan is the center of business and the capital of Italian fashion, but it also has an ancient heritage and a fascinating history; here you find some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art! Together with your guide, you’ll explore the magnificent Duomo, Galleria, Scala opera house, merchant square, financial district, food street, and Sforza Castle.

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Cultural Culinary Guided Walk

During your 3-hour food tour, walk along the food street and stop by a special deli, where the best Italian food is on display. Head to Eataly where you can see how Pasta, Ravioli, and bread are made by an important local Eataly Partner, in the morning you can also see how mozzarella and chocolate are made.

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Excursion to Lake Como

Often cited as the most picturesque lake in Europe, Lake Como has enchanted artists and travelers for centuries and it's easy to see why. Tucked away in the foothills of the northern Italian Alps, Lake Como is the perfect day trip destination from Milan, offering the perfect chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover some of the picturesque lakeside villages, take a thrilling boat ride across the lake, or explore the many grand villas and beautiful gardens.

To Be Determined

Private Milan Malpensa Airport Transfer

A car service will pick you up from your hotel and deliver you to Milan Malpensa Airport for your flight departure. This is a private transfer just for your travel party, and you will not need to pay the driver for the transfer, as it is already included in the cost of the itinerary. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.