Travel to Italy in 2027. Are you interested in Northern Italy?

I have received numerous requests for a tour through the northern regions of Italy, so I've revisited some of my previous explorations through Italy's most remarkable food region, its geographic heart, and the culinary capital. We'll then journey through parts of the lesser-known Veneto and conclude in Milan.

We will include Tuscany, but not the typical locations.

When will we travel? Sometime in October, so we can avoid the crowds and the hot weather.

How many will travel? no more than 12.. Just like our Sicily tour.

My DMC is currently working on the budget.

If you want to explore more of Tuscany, consider arriving in Florence before my tour. I always aim for off-the-beaten-path experiences, and this trip will feature plenty of those.

Ending in Milan allows you to extend your trip to see Piemonte or Liguria.

If you are interested in receiving more information please register here.

wine and food traveller

Here is the draft itinerary. We are sourcing 4 star accommodation currently and that will be built in to the final costing.

Day 1 – Arrival in Florence and Welcome Dinner

Upon arrival in Florence, guests will check in to a centrally located hotel, providing convenient access to the city's attractions. In the evening, the group will gather for a welcome dinner at a local trattoria near the hotel. This dinner serves as an opportunity for everyone to meet, get acquainted with fellow travelers, and receive a brief overview of the tour from the guide.

The remainder of the day is purposely left flexible, giving guests the freedom to explore Florence at their own pace. Suggestions for independent exploration include strolling through Florence’s charming streets, visiting renowned museums, and discovering artisan quarters.

Day 2 – Exploring Chianti Rufina: Tuscany Beyond the Classics

The second day is dedicated to a full-day excursion into Chianti Rufina, a genuine and lesser-known subzone of Chianti in Tuscany. Guests will visit a boutique, family-owned winery, where they will participate in a guided tasting that highlights Sangiovese and showcases the unique character of the region. Lunch will be served either at a rural estate or a traditional restaurant, expertly paired with local wines.

Overnight: Florence (night 2 of 2)

Day 3 – Journey from Florence to Bologna

On the third day, guests will depart Florence by high-speed train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station to Bologna. The afternoon is dedicated to a guided walking tour through Bologna’s historic center, with a special focus on the city’s rich food culture. The experience continues with an aperitivo featuring regional wines, followed by dinner at a classic trattoria.

Overnight: Bologna (night 1 of 2)

Day 4 – Discovering Culture Beyond the Obvious

The day begins with a morning departure from Bologna to Comacchio, one of Emilia-Romagna’s most atmospheric and least-visited towns, often referred to as “little Venice” due to its canals, bridges, and strong ties to lagoon life and fishing traditions. A guided walk introduces the town’s history and its connection to the surrounding wetlands.

Lunch features local seafood specialities, traditionally linked to the lagoons, such as eel (when in season), shellfish, and regional fish, all paired with local white wines. After a relaxed return to Bologna in the afternoon, the evening is once again left at leisure for guests.

Overnight: Bologna (night 2 of 2)

Day 5 – Emilia-Romagna: Producers and Countryside Lunch

The fifth day is devoted to the culinary heart of Emilia-Romagna. Guests will visit a family-run Parmigiano Reggiano producer and a traditional balsamic vinegar maker, gaining insight into the region’s artisanal food traditions. Lunch is served at a local estate or agriturismo, complete with regional wine pairings.

In the late afternoon, travel to Parma. Upon arrival, guests have free time to explore cafés and shops along Strada Luigi Farini. Dinner is at leisure, with suggestions for light, local options in an aperitivo style provided.

Overnight: Parma (night 1 of 2)

Day 6 – Parma Hills: Langhirano and Torrechiara

The day begins with a journey from Parma into the scenic hills, where guests will visit a family-run Prosciutto di Parma producer and take a guided tour of the historic Torrechiara Castle. Lunch is served nearby, featuring seasonal Parmigiano Reggiano dishes complemented by local wines.

Overnight: Parma (night 2 of 2)

Day 7 – From Parma to Mantua and Lake Garda

Guests depart Parma by private coach, making a stop in Mantua for a guided stroll through the historic centre and the Ducal Palace, or for independent exploration. Lunch is provided in Valeggio sul Mincio, a locale renowned for its handmade tortellini, served riverside with local wines. The day concludes with a transfer to the Lake Garda area, specifically the Lugana countryside.

Overnight: Lake Garda (night 1 of 3)

Day 8 – Lugana and Valpolicella Wine Experience

The eighth day is dedicated to exploring the wine highlights of the region. The morning features a tour and tasting at a Lugana winery, celebrated for its elegant white wines. In the afternoon, we visit a boutique Valpolicella producer. Lunch is arranged at a winery or local restaurant, with expertly matched wine pairings. Th returnto Lake Garda by late afternoon.

Overnight: Lake Garda (night 2 of 3)

Day 9 – Verona and Farewell Dinner

On the final full day, guests transfer to Verona in the morning, where we can enjoy free time or participate in a relaxed, guided orientation walk through the historic center. In the evening, a farewell dinner will be held, either in Verona or near Lake Garda, depending on the location of the hotel.

Overnight: Lake Garda (night 3 of 3)

Day 10 – Departure to Milan Airport

On the final day of the tour, guests depart for Milan Airport to begin their onward travel, marking the conclusion of the Italy Food and Culture Tour.

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