AÂ Vibrant, Soul-Stirring Italian Adventure
Through Liguria and Tuscany
May 9th - 19th, 2026
Imagine stepping into a world where stunning landscapes, rich culture, and transformative experiences come togetherâif you're ready for an adventure that will leave you inspired and connected, this journey is calling your name!
Check out this incredible itinerary!

Day 1: Saturday, May 9th
Arrive in Milan by plane or train, where you'll be warmly greeted and whisked away in our private van for a scenic drive along the stunning Ligurian Coast.
Once we arrive in the charming coastal village of Camogli, weâll check into our beautiful seaside hotel, a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation. Take some time to settle into your room and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views that will be your backdrop for the next few days.
In the afternoon, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town, soaking in the unique charm of this enchanting destination. Itâs the perfect introduction to Camogli's captivating character.
As the sun sets, weâll gather for a memorable welcome dinner, where youâll indulge in a delicious 3-course Ligurian menu paired with local wines. This will be the perfect opportunity to connect, share stories, and set the stage for the amazing adventures ahead.
After dinner, weâll head to the rooftop to marvel at the crowds gathering for bonfires and fireworks on the beach (the best youâll ever experience!). Itâs the perfect way to end an unforgettable first day! â¨đâ¨
Then get ready for tomorrowâs exciting journeyâweâve got a lot of unforgettable experiences lined up!
Includes:Â
- Private transfer from Milan Malpensa Airport to our hotel in the heart of Camogli
- A memorable welcome dinner overlooking the sea, featuring our favorite Ligurian specialties paired with local wines
Day 2: Sunday, May 10th
After a bountiful breakfast buffet, weâll head to the annual Fish Festival of Saint Fortunato! The entire town will come alive for this vibrant event, with the local market offering a true taste of Tuscanyâs flavors and craftsmanship.
Then weâll hop on a ferry for a scenic ride to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. Nestled in a secluded bay, weâll explore this picturesque complex featuring a historic monastery, an ancient watchtower, and pebbled beaches.
Next, weâll sail to the glamorous town of Portofino. Known for its chic harbor, itâs the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch with stunning views. Explore high-end boutique shops or hike up to Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the town and the Ligurian Sea.
As the afternoon winds down, weâll make our way by boat to Santa Margherita, the sea-splashed, bougainvillea-brilliant cousin to Camogli. Weâll enjoy a yummy pizza dinner before hopping a quick train back to our cozy little fishing village. Pack your bags before turning in because tomorrow our adventure continues in Cinque Terre.Â
Includes:
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Ferry ride to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, including entrance and time to explore the historic monasteryÂ
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Ferry ride to Portofino, with time to explore the chic harbor, shop, or hike up to Castello Brown for breathtaking views
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Ferry ride to Santa Margherita, followed by a delicious pizza dinner


Day 3: Monday, May 11th
After another leisurely breakfast, weâll enjoy a relaxing morning with options for a beach stroll, pool time, shopping, hiking, or even a massage! Take some time to unwind and enjoy the morning at your own pace.
Later, weâll catch a train and head south to Monterosso, one of the charming villages in the iconic Cinque Terre, or âFive Lands.âÂ
Upon arrival, weâll check into our cozy hillside hotel, explore this picturesque town, wander its narrow streets and soak in the enchanting coastal vibe.
Weâll cap off the day with a delicious meal at a local trattoria, savoring authentic regional flavors. As night falls, youâll settle in with memories of a day filled with the magic of Italy.
Includes:Â
- Â Train tickets to Monterosso in the Cinque Terre, offering scenic views of the Ligurian coastline
- Dinner at a local trattoria, featuring authentic regional flavorsÂ
Day 4: Tuesday, May 12th
Today, we dive into the heart of Cinque Terre! Iâll escort you on a scenic train ride to explore a couple of the charming "C5" villages, chosen by the group. From wandering narrow streets lined with colorful shops to taking in the stunning coastal views, thereâs so much to discover. Feel free to shop for unique souvenirs, enjoy a relaxing moment by the water, or venture on a light hike through the picturesque hills. When youâre ready, weâll catch a quick train back to Monterosso, leaving plenty of time to unwind before our next adventure.
In the afternoon, weâll come together for a private pesto-making class on the shores of Monterosso. Led by our favorite local chef, you'll learn the art of crafting this iconic Ligurian sauce, all while sipping on wine and nibbling on traditional Italian snacks. After mastering your pesto, we'll pair it with freshly made trofie pasta, and enjoy our delicious creation as a relaxed dinner overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
As the evening falls, weâll take a leisurely stroll through the quieter streets of Monterosso, allowing the charm of the village to sink in. To end the evening on a sweet note, weâll treat ourselves to some of the best gelato in the region! đŚâ¨
Includes:
- Train tickets to explore the Cinque Terre villages, with scenic views along the way
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Private pesto-making class on the shores of Monterosso, led by a local chef, with wine and traditional Italian snacks
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Dinner featuring freshly made trofie pasta paired with the pesto youâve crafted, enjoyed with stunning views of the Ligurian Sea
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Leisurely evening stroll through the peaceful streets of Monterosso, with a gelato treat to end the day on a sweet note


Day 5: Wednesday, May 13th
Grab your sunscreen and don your swimsuit because we're off on an unforgettable coastal cruise today! Our adventure kicks off with a scenic train ride to La Spezia, where weâll board our private double-decker boat, Acquamarina. From there, weâll set sail across the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Poets, soaking in the beauty of Cinque Terre from the sea.
Our first stop will be the enchanting town of Porto Venere, often called the "sixth Cinque Terre village." Weâll make our way up to the stunning Church of St. Peter, perched on a rocky cliff with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea.
Once back on board, the captain will fire up the grill and treat us to a delightful seafood lunch, accompanied by mouth-watering bruschetta and refreshing beverages.
As we sail up the coast, weâll stop at each of the five iconic Cinque Terre villages, giving you plenty of time to capture breathtaking views and snap some photos from the peaceful vantage point of the boat. Once we return to Monterosso, the evening is yours to unwind, reflecting on an incredible day spent exploring the heart of Cinque Terre. Make sure to pack your bags tonightâwe continue our adventure tomorrow with even more unforgettable experiences!
Includes:
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Scenic train ride along the coast to the town of La Spezia
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Private boat tour starting in the Bay of Poets, with a stop in Porto Venere to explore the charming town and its stunning Church of St. Peter perched on a rocky cliff
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Cruise along the Cinque Terre coast, with stops at each of the five picturesque villages, giving you plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking views and snap photos
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Fresh seafood lunch prepared on board, accompanied by bruschetta and refreshing beverages
Day 6: Thursday, May 14th
Itâs time to move on to our next destination: Lucca! Encased in a circle of thick stone walls, Lucca is a small Medieval city that's home to hundreds of historical sites and churches.
After we check in and indulge in a filling lunch, weâll start our exploration with a fascinating walking tour with our favorite local guide. Once weâve covered the highlights in the center of town, weâll take to the walls on bikes to see the sights from above and below (the tunnels are amazing!).
As twilight falls, the city comes alive with bustling cafes and restaurants, offering delectable Tuscan cuisine and local wines.Â
The evening is yours to enjoy. Why not savor dinner in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro while being serenaded by street musicians? Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Lucca's narrow, illuminated streets and soak in the city's enchanting beauty!
Included:
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Private transfer from Monterosso to Lucca in a comfortable luxury van
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Private walking tour with a local guide, exploring the cityâs historical sites and charming streets
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Relaxing bike ride along the medieval walls of Lucca with our private guide, including a visit to the fascinating tunnels
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Hearty lunch featuring traditional Tuscan fare


Day 7: Friday, May 15th
Are you ready for an amazing cooking class? Today, weâll be honing our culinary skills with a Main Ingredients and Sauces class, where youâll practice knife skills, learn the origins of Italian cuisine, and taste different extra virgin olive oils.
Weâll dive into the art of creating the essential sauces used in Tuscanyâs most famous dishes, from rich ragĂš to flavorful pesto. Itâs a hands-on experience that will give you the skills to bring Tuscanyâs flavors home with you.
After weâve learned the tricks of the trade, weâll get to enjoy everything weâve madeâa variety of delicious sauces paired with fresh pasta!
Once our bellies are full, youâll have the afternoon free to wander through one of Luccaâs beautiful churches, indulge in some retail therapy, or climb to the top of a historic tower for sweeping views of the city.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure youâre ready for a fabulous evening. At 7 PM, weâll walk to the Church of San Giovanni to experience âPuccini e la sua Lucca,â an exciting operatic performance celebrating one of Luccaâs most famous native sons.
Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, grab a delicious dinner, or head straight for the best gelato in Italy. No guilt hereâcalories donât count in Italy! đ
Includes:
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Main Ingredients and Sauces cooking class, including knife skills, tasting extra virgin olive oils, and learning to create essential Tuscan sauces
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Lunch featuring the sauces and fresh pasta youâve prepared
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Entry to the Church of San Giovanni for the operatic performance âPuccini e la sua Lucca"
Day 8: Saturday, May 16th
After a relaxing morning in Lucca, weâll embark on a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Tuscany, making our first stop in the historic walled town of Monteriggioni. Here, weâll enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the medieval charm of this picturesque town.
Continuing south, weâll head to Siena, where weâll check into our beautifully restored farmhouse, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
In the afternoon, weâll head into Siena for a private walking tour through the cityâs enchanting streets. A highlight of the tour is the breathtaking Siena Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece filled with intricate details that will leave you in awe.
Youâll then have free time to shop for local treasures, wander Sienaâs vibrant streets, and enjoy dinner at one of its many delightful eateries. As the day comes to a close, weâll return to our charming farmhouse retreat to unwindand enjoy the peaceful ambiance, with the twinkling lights of Siena in the distance.
Includes:
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Private transfer from Monterosso to Siena in a comfortable luxury van
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Private walking tour of Siena, including entrance to the stunning Siena Duomo
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Lunch in the historic walled town of MonteriggioniÂ


Day 9: Sunday, May 17th
After a hearty breakfast, weâll embark on an exciting day. Our private driver will whisk us away to Certaldo, where weâll take the funicular up to Certaldo Alto, a charming medieval town perched on a hilltop. Explore its narrow streets, soak in the stunning views, and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Next, weâll head to a remarkable female-owned winery nestled on a hillside overlooking the iconic towers of San Gimignano. Here, weâll enjoy a wonderful traditional Tuscan lunch, featuring locally sourced ingredients, alongside a tasting of their exquisite organic wines.
After lunch, weâll journey to the âTown of Fine Towers,â San Gimignano. Youâll have time to wander its picturesque streets, admire the medieval architecture, and shop for unique local treasures. Before we leave, weâll indulge in a treat from the world-famous gelateria, known for its innovative flavors.
Our last stop of the day will be a family-owned agriturismo offering spectacular views of San Gimignano. Weâll take a tour of the farm, learning about their sustainable practices and deep-rooted traditions. As the sun sets over the hills, we'll enjoy a hearty meal that perfectly captures the flavors and beauty of Tuscany.
Includes:
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Private luxury van to transport us throughout the day
- Visit to Certaldo Alto, including the funicular ride for stunning views and exploration
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Visit to a female-owned winery nestled on a hillside overlooking San Gimignano, with a tasting of exquisite organic wines, paired with local cheeses and cured meats
- Time to explore San Gimignano, including a sweet treat at a world-famous gelateriaÂ
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Tour of a family-owned agriturismo, followed by a farewell meal that captures the flavors and beauty of Tuscany
Day 10: Monday, May 18th
Today is the perfect blend of relaxation, indulgence, and a final celebration of this unforgettable journey. After a leisurely morning, youâll have time to enjoy the beautiful grounds of our country farmhouse and pack your bags before we begin the dayâs adventures.
Weâll head straight to a renowned winery where youâll enjoy a guided tour, learning about the art of winemaking. Youâll have the opportunity to taste exquisite wines, including the region's signature Brunello, and savor a delightful Tuscan lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with the winery's exceptional winesâa true feast for the senses.
In the afternoon, weâll head to San Giovanni Spa Rapolano for the ultimate relaxation experience. Soak in the rejuvenating thermal pools and unwind with a soothing massage that will melt away any lingering stress from the journey.
Afterward, weâll return to our farmhouse to freshen up before heading into Siena for a farewell celebration dinner. This is the perfect way to reflect on the incredible memories we've made together throughout this adventure.
Includes:
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Private transfer to the renowned winery for a guided tour and wine tasting, including Brunello and other local wines
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Lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with the winery's exceptional wines
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Entry to San Giovanni Spa Rapolano, with access to the thermal pools and a soothing, rejuvenating massage
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Farewell celebration dinner in Siena to cap off the journeyÂ


Day 11: Tuesday, May 19th
Today marks the day you start your journey back to the ârealâ world. Weâll gather at breakfast for our final farewells before you begin your travels to your next destination or the town you'll be flying home from. Whether you choose a private transfer or a scenic train ride, weâll ensure your departure is smooth and stress-free. If youâve chosen to extend your stay in Italy, weâd be happy to offer suggestions for your onward itinerary.
While itâs always sad to say goodbye, this isnât the end of our journey together. Weâll stay connected in our private Facebook and WhatsApp groups, where we'll share photos, memories, and stories. Arrivederci! đđ
Check Out These Bonuses!

Travel Planning
It can be overwhelming trying to find the best flight routes (and prices!) and figure out where to stay pre & post retreat. You'll likely need help with train and ferry schedules too. Take advantage of Linda Beach's expertise with Italian travel by hopping on a complimentary 30-minute Zoom call with her!

Pre-Trip Happy Hours
To help you feel confident and connected before we go, weâll host several group Zoom calls where we'll share tips on packing, trains, currency, and more. Youâll also get to meet your fellow retreat-goersâso when we finally sit down for our Welcome Dinner, itâll feel like reuniting with old friends!

Private Facebook Group
Once you register, youâll be invited to our private Facebook group where you can connect with fellow travelers, find a roommate, ask questions, and get trip updates. Youâll also find fun videos, helpful articles and Italian inspiration to fuel your excitement before we gather for our big adventure!


Meet Linda Beach, The Travel Passionista
Not long ago, I needed a big change. My life was a âGroundhog Day Parody,â with every moment blending together into a blurry blob of BLAH. I was tired of the âsame old, same oldâ and desperately craved more passion and adventure.Â
So in early 2016, I took a huge leap. I sold my business, gave away nearly everything I owned, and moved to Belize (where I didnât know a soul). GulpâŚtalk about terrifying! đłÂ
But it was so worth it! For the next couple of years, I watched the palms blowing in the breeze as I worked from my balcony.Â
I also started visiting "must see" places on my bucket list, including Italy. On my first visit, I crisscrossed the country looking for adventure, talking to strangers and exploring ancient cathedrals and ruins.
I treated myself to all the pizza, pasta and gelato my heart desired (calories donât count there đ). Along the way, I rekindled my lust for lifeâŚjust like you will when you join me in Italy!
Since then, I've been back to âBel Paeseâ many times. I love exploring Italy so much that I now host multiple retreats a year in different parts of the country.
I love nothing more than to take fellow travelers on retreat and watch them have the time of their life! Ready to see what grand adventures I have in store for you? Trust me, it's going to be epic! đ¤Š
Our Beautiful Accommodations...
Stunning properties with luxury & comfort in mind!
On this unforgettable journey through Italy, weâll be staying in a handpicked selection of four distinctive venues, each chosen for its unique charm, attention to detail, and ability to make you feel right at home. Whether itâs the warmth of family-owned establishments or the refined luxury of carefully restored historic venues, each property offers its own story and ambiance. You'll enjoy thoughtfully appointed rooms, delightful dining options, and the perfect mix of relaxation and convenience as we explore Ischia, Monterosso, Lucca and Siena.
Each accommodation has been selected not only for its impeccable standards but also for its ability to enrich our journey. No matter where we are in Italy, youâll have a comfortable retreat to relax and savor the memories we create each day. Prepare to feel at homeâonly betterâthroughout this magical adventure!
Got Questions? I’ve Got Answers!
Which airport do I fly into?
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
Can I bring a family member or friend?
I feel guilty about taking time away from my family or work.
I don't know how I feel about traveling with a group of strangers.
What if I can't afford a trip to Italy?
Do I have to be physically fit for this retreat?
I'm stressed thinking about all the activities. Will I have any time to myself?
Whatâs the luggage policy for this adventure?
What about travel restrictions?
What will the weather be like in Italy in May?
Please explain the sleeping situation.
What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies?
What's the tipping culture like in Italy?
Do I really need travel insurance?
I have more questions and want to talk with someone personally.
Head over to the registration page & grab your spot!
Take me there. I'm already packing! đ§łđWould you like to know more about this amazing journey?
I get it, I'm excited too! I'd love to hop on a call and answer any questions you might have asap! Just click the button below...âŹď¸
Let's chat!