A Quick Overview
Experience The Culture and History of Italian Food!
Begin your Italian odyssey in the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, where the rustic charm of our private villa awaits, serving as the perfect base for explorations and day trips across this picturesque region and the neighboring Umbria. Delight in the art of cheese making on visits to local farms, meander through the cobblestone streets of quaint towns like Monteriggioni, and partake in a heartwarming dining experience on a small family farm, where the meals are enjoyed in the intimate setting of their kitchen, complete with greetings to their cherished cow.
The adventure heightens with a spectacular private event at our villa, offering an immersive culinary experience complemented by the melodious tunes of a live band, encapsulating the soulful essence of Tuscany.
As our journey unfolds, we venture to Florence for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights, including the famed statue of David, insightful explorations into the craft of Italian leather, and breathtaking views over the city, capturing the artistic and historic spirit of the region.
Our voyage then leads us to the rich culinary landscapes of Emilia Romagna, with a few days dedicated to discovering the gastronomic wonders around Bologna. Here, we will explore the origins of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, visit distinguished wineries, and learn about the intricate process of making balsamic vinegar, all while driving through the idyllic countryside.
This meticulously curated journey from the heart of Tuscany to the culinary depths of Bologna area is not merely a travel experience but a passage through the vibrant culture, history, and flavors of Italy, promising memories that will linger long after the journey ends.
What's Included
11 Days/10 nights Accommodations | All tastings, classes and demonstrations | Private van/bus and driver | Airport transfers | Most meals | All group activities and expert guides | Full-time tour director and chef | Tips and gratuities
Itinerary and more... detailed below.
Pricing and Registration
Cost Per Person: $15,777 (does NOT include flight)
Ready to join us on this incredible experience? Great! You can sign up by clicking the "Join Now!" button below.
Meet Your Italian Experience Team
Kerri Wood - Tour Director
Over a decade ago, Kerri experienced a defining moment as she stood on a rooftop terrace, gazing over the eternal city of Rome. It was there, amidst the panoramic views of ancient history and vibrant life, that she felt an undeniable sense of belonging. Motivated by this profound connection, Kerri returned to the U.S. with a vision: to found a company that would not only facilitate her annual return to Italy but also empower others to experience the country's wonders without the pitfalls she encountered. Her mission became to ensure that her clients could fully enjoy, relax, and immerse themselves in the extraordinary Italian culture.
With meticulous attention to detail, Kerri personally crafts each tour to fulfill her clients' dream, ensuring an unforgettable journey for every traveler. Her selection of guides and team members is based on a harmonious blend of passion and the unique perspectives they offer, enriching the tours with depth, insight, and a spirit of adventure. This thoughtful approach guarantees an authentic, engaging, and seamlessly enjoyable Italian escape.
Daniel Villanueva - Chef
Chef Daniel's culinary journey is deeply rooted in the vibrant kitchens of his grandmothers, where the rituals of cooking and the joy of sharing meals were instilled in him from a young age. His passion for cooking is a tribute to the lessons learned in these familial havens, where the importance of sourcing the freshest ingredients and the dedication to culinary craftsmanship were paramount. Daniel's Table, established on June 1, 2018, is the embodiment of his culinary ethos, offering a creative haven that respects the rhythms of nature while delivering an unparalleled dining experience. With a commitment to sourcing only the finest grass-fed meats, wild game, and sustainably caught fish, Chef Daniel creates dishes that not only honor the traditions of our ancestors but also celebrate the bounty of the earth. At Daniel's Table, guests are invited to embark on a gastronomic journey that is as enriching as it is delicious, all under the guidance of a chef who cooks with heart, dedication, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Your 11 Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Welcome to Italy
Embark on your adventure with ease as our direct airport transfer service delivers you to the doorstep of our exquisite Villa in Tuscany, ensuring a smooth and serene beginning to your journey. Upon arrival, indulge in the freedom to roam the property, bask by the pool, or simply soak in the breathtaking Tuscan landscapes. As dusk falls, join us for a sumptuous welcome dinner, hosted in the villa's elegant surroundings, where the flavors of Tuscany will tantalize your palate and warm hospitality will make you feel right at home. Sleep 7 nights in Tuscany Activity Level - Light
Day 2 - Cheese, Wine and Gladiator
Discover the picturesque town of Pienza and its captivating surroundings with an exciting day trip. Begin your morning with a deep dive into the art of cheese-making, learning the secrets behind this local tradition. Then, savor a sumptuous multi-course lunch while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that command your attention. The adventure continues in the afternoon as you explore the quaint streets of Pienza, offering awe-inspiring views that have famously adorned scenes from the movie Gladiator. Join us for a day where gastronomic pleasures and scenic splendors unite in the heart of Italy. Activity Level - Light
Day 3: Tuscany Countryside
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany on a scenic countryside drive that transports you straight into a living masterpiece. Revel in the enchanting allure of charming towns such as Monteriggioni and savor a picturesque lunch accompanied by exquisite wine. Allow us to whisk you away on a journey where every turn reveals a new panoramic delight, making for an unforgettable Tuscan experience. Activity Level - Light
Day 4: Rustic Farm in Umbria
Today's journey invites you on a unique adventure, unparalleled in its authenticity and charm. Venture with us to a quaint, old farm nestled in the heart of Umbria, where goats and sheep roam freely, and a friendly cow greets you upon arrival. Here, in this idyllic setting, you will have the exclusive opportunity to taste delectable homemade delicacies, lovingly prepared by the family that has nurtured and maintained this farm for generations. Prepare for a day of rustic elegance and culinary delight that can only be experienced in this untouched corner of the world. Activity Level - Moderate (Heavy optional)
Day 5: Free Day and Cooking with Chef D
Relish a Day of Serenity at the Villa. Seize the day to relax and rejuvenate at your leisure within the tranquil confines of the villa. Immerse yourself in the cool waters of the pool, lose yourself in a good book, or meander through the lush landscapes that envelop our serene retreat. Recognizing the whirlwind nature of travel, we cherish offering you this day to indulge in whatever pleases your soul. Should you seek more, we are at your service to tailor additional activities to your liking. The day's highlight? A culinary adventure with Chef Daniel, promising an evening of gastronomic delight right in the comfort of our villa. Activity Level - Light
Day 6: Florence Sculptures, Leather and Views
Embark on a morning expedition through Florence, where the city's awe-inspiring landmarks await your discovery, including the iconic statue of David, among other majestic sights. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the refined craft of Florence Leather, gaining insight into this esteemed art form. Your journey culminates with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, perfectly concluding your day trip with an unforgettable vista. Activity Level - Heavy
Day 7: Relax, Rejuvenate and Enjoy
On the last full day of our Tuscan adventure, we invite you to unwind and rejuvenate, preparing for the journey to Emilia Romagna that lies ahead. The morning promises serenity as we retreat to a countryside hot spring spa, a sanctuary where relaxation meets natural beauty. Upon our return to the villa, the evening unfolds with a distinctive culinary experience; delve into the rich history of Tuscan cuisine, enhanced by the vibrant tunes of a live band. This harmonious blend of relaxation and cultural immersion sets the stage for a memorable conclusion to our time in Tuscany. Activity Level - Light
Day 8: Journey to Bologna
As we set our sights on Bologna, nestled within the vibrant Emilia Romagna region, our journey is punctuated by the comfort of our private van, thoughtfully pausing at picturesque villages along the way. These stops offer a glimpse into the quaint charm and rich history of the area, complemented by the opportunity to savor a delectable lunch. This leisurely exploration en route to Bologna promises not just a transition between destinations, but a delightful adventure in its own right, blending scenic beauty with culinary delights. Sleep 3 nights in Bologna Activity Level - Light
Day 9: Discover the Culinary Wonders of Emilia Romagna
Embark on a gastronomic journey through the lush countryside of Bologna, where the rich flavors and traditions of the region come to life. Our carefully curated excursion takes you to a local dairy farm for an up-close look at the making of Parmigiano Reggiano, followed by an exquisite balsamic vinegar tasting session. The adventure continues with a visit to a renowned ham factory, culminating in a sumptuous lunch featuring a selection of fine cold cuts, perfectly paired with a bottle of the region's signature Lambrusco wine. Join us for a day of indulgence and exploration in Bologna's culinary heartland. Activity Level - Light
Day 10: Explore the Charms of Bologna
Dive into the heart of Bologna with our expert team, where a day of discovery and delight awaits. Beginning directly from your hotel, our guide will lead you on an immersive food and walking tour through the bustling markets of the city, unveiling local culinary treasures along the way. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Bologna as we meander through its historic porticos, towers, squares, and churches, each revealing a layer of the city's rich tapestry. The journey concludes with a quintessentially Italian treat — a leisurely afternoon coffee and gelato, ensuring a sweet finish to an unforgettable exploration. Activity Level - Heavy
Day 11: Depart Italy, ciao!
As we bid farewell to our enchanting journey, our official tour concludes following breakfast. For those destined for departure, rest assured, airport transfers will be seamlessly arranged to ensure a smooth journey home. If the allure of Italy beckons you to stay longer, our team is delighted to assist with organizing your onward transportation, ensuring your Italian adventure continues just the way you wish.
What's Included
Group Size
We are committed to keeping our groups to no more than 6 -12 tour participants. This makes it perfect for immersing into the Italian countryside learning about the food and the culture. This also allows us access to sights, hotels and restaurants that cannot accommodate large groups.
Experience Team
During your tour, you will have a full-time Ultimate Italy Tours Tour Director for the entire duration of your experience.
In addition to this, we hire the best local experts to guide you through each sight and activity to bring Italy to life!
Meals
Because meal time is so important in Italian culture, we include most meals during your trip. The only meals not included are those you have during your free time. We have hand picked each restaurant, winery, farm and chef with care and attention to detail to make sure we have the best food experiences.
Transportation
To truly appreciate the Italian countryside, you must discover it by van or small bus. We will be driving you through the regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia Romagna. We also include airport transfers to and from the airports suggested for each end of the tour.
Accommodations
All of our tours stay in hotels, B&B's and Villas carefully chosen for their uniqueness, attention to detail and overall experience. We make sure to have wifi where possible and book luxury 4 star stays in bigger cities, like Bologna. We also choose to stay in the heart of the cities so it's easy for you to explore during your free time.
Activities
The activities and experiences you will take part in on our tours is a combination of the major sights (they are famous for a reason), and hidden secret locations and small family run farms, sights, classes and locations. On every tour we include the opportunity spend time with true Italian artisans and artists.
Cooking Class with Chef Daniel
Our cooking class takes place on our free day and will be a delightful and delicious end to a rejuvenating day.
Tips and Gratuities
In an effort to NOT nickel and dime our guests, we include all tips and gratuities. We will tip all the guides, drivers, restaurants, and hotels. We do this for two reasons. 1) We want to be transparent in our pricing, no additional charges after you sign up. 2) So you don't have to try to guess or figure out what to tip. If you would like to tip on your own, you can, but it is not required.
Join Daniel's Table Italian Experience
This tour takes a maximum of 12 guests and will depart with a minimum of 6.
Date:
Sept 4 - 14, 2024
$15,777 per person*
Reserve your seat now by clicking below.
*Flight NOT included
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Important Information
Before you register, please make note of the following...
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When arriving to your tour from the United States, you will need to depart the day prior to your tour start date. Some tours start and end in different cities. Please make sure that you plan your flights accordingly.
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Ultimate Italy Tours does NOT include airfare. If you would like assistance please contact us.
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All communication regarding your tour, accommodations and details is sent via email. Please make sure we have you current email address.
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Tips and gratuities are included in the cost of your tour. This includes all guides, drivers, tour leaders and tour directors. Any voluntary additional gratuities are at your discretion.
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Ultimate Italy Tours strongly recommends you to purchase travel insurance. If you need assistance please contact us.
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If you are interested in extending your stay in Italy, contact us if you'd like assistance.
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Please be aware that while we always do our best to stick to the itineraries published, there are times that changes may be made by the tour leader/ tour director due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Although our tours are not classified as adventure or strenuous, all tours require you be in good physical condition. You must be able to walk several miles a day, often on uneven pavement and up hills and stairs, and stand for long periods of time.
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Hotel staff will assign rooms to guests. As we stay in smaller family run, boutique hotels, the rooms may vary in size and layout. Also note that, in general rooms and bathrooms are smaller than common US standards. All rooms will have an ensuite bathroom with a tub and/or shower, hairdryer and basic toiletries.
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Air conditioning and heat are not always available and in some hotels, they will depend on the season. Wifi is also not as readily available as in the US.
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It is your responsibility to have valid travel documents and understand your country's travel laws. Your passport MUST have at least 6 months valid time remaining after the date of your return home.
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In the very unlikely event that we do not hit the tour minimum of 4 participants, we will do our best to help you choose a different departure date and make the transition as quick, easy and smooth as possible.
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Unless stated otherwise, all rates are per person, based on double occupancy, land only, in USD, and subject to availability. Rates may vary by departure date and are subject to change without notice. Ultimate Italy Tours reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update rates, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice.