Flavours of Italy: A Gastronomy and Wine Retreat

Day 1

Arrival in Rome
Stay In Bio Hotel Raphaël 5*

Welcome to the Eternal City! Upon arrival in Rome, meet your driver at the airport, who will take you to your hotel. Check into the elegant Bio Hotel Raphaël – Relais & Châteaux, an ivy-clad gem near Piazza Navona, blending luxury with sustainability. Take some time to relax after your journey.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Centro Storico, Rome’s historic heart. Stroll through Piazza Navona, admire Bernini’s fountains, and marvel at the ancient Pantheon. Enjoy a gelato en route to the iconic Trevi Fountain, where tossing a coin ensures your return to Rome.

In the evening, savour a traditional Roman dinner with classic dishes like cacio e pepe or carbonara, and conclude your day with a leisurely walk to the beautifully lit Spanish Steps.

Overnight: Rome

Day 2

Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Guided Tour

After breakfast, meet your guide in your hotel lobby to explore Rome’s iconic landmarks. Begin at the Colosseum, the world’s largest ancient amphitheatre, and imagine the gladiatorial battles that once captivated thousands. Nearby, admire the Arch of Constantine before heading to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome, where you’ll discover imperial ruins and stunning city views.

Continue to the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Roman life, and stroll among the remnants of temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches.

End your afternoon with panoramic views from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument and enjoy a relaxing dinner in the vibrant Monti District.

Overnight:  Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Rome’s Food Guided Walking Tour

Experience Rome through its cuisine with a guided food walking tour. Start your morning at the bustling Campo de’ Fiori market, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Wander through the charming Jewish Ghetto, where you’ll taste Roman-Jewish specialities like carciofi alla giudia (fried artichokes). Continue to Trastevere, known for its narrow streets and authentic eateries, where you can enjoy traditional Roman pizza and supplì (fried rice balls).

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Visit the Borghese Gallery or relax in Villa Borghese Gardens. In the evening, indulge in a gelato or an affogato (espresso with ice cream) from one of Rome’s renowned gelaterias.

Overnight: Rome

Meals included: Breakfast, Food tour

Day 4

Train from Rome to Florence
Stay In Palazzo Niccolini Al Duomo 5*

Board a high-speed train to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. The journey offers scenic views of the Tuscan countryside and takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a leisurely walk through the city’s historic center. Admire the magnificent Duomo, with its iconic red dome designed by Brunelleschi, and the ornate Baptistery with its famous bronze doors, the “Gates of Paradise.”

In the evening, stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, lined with goldsmith shops, and enjoy a Tuscan dinner at a cozy trattoria. Try dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) and finish with a glass of local Chianti wine.

Overnight:  Florence

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

Florence Walking Tour & Hidden Wine Doors

Discover Florence’s rich history with a unique guided walking tour. Start at the stunning Piazza del Duomo and climb the Campanile of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, for panoramic views of the city. Continue to the Piazza della Signoria to admire the replica of David and the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s historic town hall. With your guide, explore the outside of Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence’s symbols, with history dating back to 1218.

In the afternoon, at leisure, explore Florence’s unique wine doors (buchette del vino). These small windows date back to the Renaissance and were used to serve wine directly from private homes. Stop at a few for a glass of wine or gelato. End the day with dinner in the charming Oltrarno district.

Overnight: Florence

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Rental Car Pick Up & Drive To
Luxury Villa in Tuscany
Stay In Villa Ardore

Pick up your rental car and begin your Tuscan adventure. Drive through rolling hills and vineyards to your luxury villa nestled in the countryside. Check in and unwind by the pool or explore the villa’s stunning grounds. Enjoy the tranquility and charm of rural Tuscany, with sweeping views of vineyards and olive groves.

In the evening, relax with a glass of local wine on the terrace and savour a homemade Tuscan dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The peaceful setting offers a perfect retreat after the bustle of the cities.

Overnight:  Barberino Val d'Elsa

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Pasta Cooking Class & Wine Tasting

Immerse yourself in the heart of Tuscan culture with a pasta-making class at your villa or a nearby agriturismo. Guided by a local chef, learn the art of creating fresh pasta from scratch, such as pici or tagliatelle. Discover the secrets of classic sauces like ragù or cacio e pepe. After the class, enjoy a leisurely lunch, savouring your handmade creations paired with a selection of fine local wines.

In the afternoon, explore a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting experience. Stroll through the lush vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample varieties like Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino. Return to your villa and relax with a sunset aperitivo on the terrace, surrounded by the stunning Tuscan countryside.

Overnight: Barberino Val d'Elsa

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8

Full Day Guided Trip to Siena & San Gimignano

Drive to Siena, renowned for its Piazza del Campo and the Palio di Siena. Upon arrival, meet your guide to explore the magnificent Siena Cathedral, admired for its intricate marble floors and frescoes. Wander the picturesque streets, browsing boutiques and cafés, and savour a leisurely lunch featuring Tuscan delights like pici pasta.

In the afternoon, continue to San Gimignano, famed for its medieval towers. Meet your guide to stroll the cobbled streets, visit the Collegiata, and take in stunning countryside views. End your visit with award-winning gelato at Gelateria Dondoli before returning to your villa for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Barberino Val d'Elsa

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Drive to Bologna
Cheese and Ham Tasting Experience
Stay In Hotel Corona D’Oro, 4*

Drive to Bologna, Italy’s culinary capital, famed for its rich gastronomy and medieval architecture. Check into your centrally located hotel and get ready for a gourmet experience.

In the afternoon, visit a local producer to learn about Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. Enjoy a tasting of these delicacies, paired with local wines and traditional balsamic vinegar.

Take time to explore Bologna’s historic centre, including Piazza Maggiore, the iconic Two Towers, and the vibrant Quadrilatero market. In the evening, savour a meal at a classic trattoria, featuring dishes like tagliatelle al ragù or tortellini in brodo.

Overnight: Bologna

Meals included: Breakfast, Cheese and Ham Tasting Experience

Day 10

Leisurely Day in Bologna

Spend a day discovering Bologna’s rich culture and history. Begin with a visit to the Basilica di San Petronio, known for its striking unfinished façade and magnificent interior. Stroll beneath the city’s iconic porticoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and pause at a local café for an espresso or a pasticcino. Don’t miss the Archiginnasio, home to the historic Anatomical Theatre.

In the afternoon, explore the lively University District and the serene Botanical Gardens. For a spectacular view of the city, climb the Asinelli Tower. End your day with an aperitivo in Piazza Santo Stefano, followed by a farewell dinner featuring classic Bolognese dishes at a renowned restaurant.

Overnight: Bologna

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. Take with you memories of Italy’s unique blend of history, culture, and timeless charm.

Meals included: Breakfast