Day 1: Tuesday, May 4th

Arrive in Milan by plane or train, where you'll be warmly greeted and welcomed aboard our private van for a scenic drive to the beautiful Ligurian Coast. 

Our destination is the charming seaside village of Camogli, where we'll check into our elegant waterfront hotel overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Settle into your room, relax and soak in the breathtaking views that will be your home for the next two nights.

Later this afternoon, we'll take a leisurely stroll through Camogli's colorful harbor, discovering its pastel buildings, quaint shops and inviting cafés. It's the perfect introduction to one of Italy's most picturesque coastal villages.

This evening, we'll gather for a memorable welcome dinner overlooking the sea, featuring a delicious menu of Ligurian specialties paired with local wines. It's the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers, share stories and toast to the incredible journey ahead.

After dinner, you're welcome to enjoy a relaxing evening by the sea or take a stroll through the village before settling in for the night. Tomorrow, our Italian adventure truly begins!

Includes: 

• 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: Wednesday, May 5th

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast overlooking the sea, we'll set out to explore the colorful fishing village of Camogli before boarding a ferry for one of the most beautiful boat rides in Italy. 

Our first stop is the enchanting Abbey of San Fruttuoso, tucked away in a secluded cove that can only be reached by boat or on foot. Here, you'll have time to wander through the historic monastery, admire the medieval watchtower and take in the peaceful beauty of this hidden gem.

From there, we'll continue by ferry to the glamorous harbor of Portofino. Enjoy free time to explore this world-famous village, browse its elegant boutiques, enjoy lunch overlooking the harbor or make the short walk up to Castello Brown for spectacular views of Portofino and the Ligurian coastline.

Later this afternoon, we'll cruise to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure, where palm-lined promenades, colorful villas and seaside cafés create the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. We'll gather for a delicious pizza dinner before taking a short train ride back to Camogli.

Be sure to pack your bags before turning in because tomorrow we'll make our way to the breathtaking villages of Cinque Terre.

Includes:

• Scenic ferry rides to San Fruttuoso, Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure 
• Entrance to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso
• Free time to explore Portofino and enjoy lunch at your leisure
• Pizza dinner in Santa Margherita Ligure

 Day 3: Thursday, May 6th

After breakfast, enjoy one last leisurely morning in beautiful Camogli. This is your chance to slow down and savor the village at your own pace. Take a stroll along the waterfront, browse the local shops, relax by the pool, enjoy the beach or simply linger over a cappuccino while watching life unfold along the harbor. 

When it's time to continue our journey, we'll board a direct train to Monterosso al Mare, the largest and most relaxed of the five villages that make up the breathtaking Cinque Terre.

Upon arrival, we'll check into our charming boutique hotel before heading out to explore Monterosso's colorful streets, inviting cafés and beautiful seaside promenade. Take in the salty sea air, dip your toes in the Mediterranean or simply enjoy wandering this postcard-perfect village.

This evening, we'll gather at one of our favorite local trattorias for another delicious meal featuring the fresh flavors of Liguria.

Includes:

• Train from Camogli to Monterosso al Mare
• Dinner at a local trattoria featuring authentic Ligurian specialties

Day 4: Friday, May 7th

Today, it's time to explore the heart of the Cinque Terre!

The local train makes it easy to visit a couple of these enchanting seaside villages, each with its own unique personality and charm. Wander colorful streets lined with artisan shops, soak in breathtaking coastal views and discover hidden corners that make this stretch of coastline so unforgettable. Whether you choose to shop for unique treasures, relax by the water or tackle one of the area's scenic walking trails, there is something magical waiting around every corner.

When you're ready, simply hop back on the train to Monterosso, leaving plenty of time to relax before our next adventure.

Later this afternoon, we'll stroll through the lemon groves and vineyards surrounding Monterosso to visit one of my favorite hidden gems in the Cinque Terre: Buranco Winery. Nestled on the hillside overlooking the village and the sea, this family-run winery is the perfect place to slow down and savor the flavors of Liguria.

We'll enjoy a guided tasting of locally produced wines paired with regional specialties while learning about the unique winemaking traditions of this remarkable region. With spectacular views stretching out before us, this is Italy at its very best.

After our tasting, we'll head back into town for a casual pizza dinner with friends before taking a leisurely evening stroll through Monterosso. And of course, no Italian evening would be complete without gelato! 🍦✨

Includes:

• Train tickets to explore the Cinque Terre villages, with scenic views along the way
• Guided wine tasting and aperitivo at Buranco Winery featuring local wines and regional specialties
• Pizza dinner in Monterosso
• Gelato to end the evening on a sweet note

Day 5: Saturday, May 8th

Grab your sunscreen and don your swimsuit because we're off on an unforgettable coastal adventure today!

Our day begins with a scenic train ride to La Spezia, where we'll board our private double-decker boat, Acquamarina, and set sail across the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Poets.

Our first stop is the enchanting harbor town of Porto Venere, often called the "sixth village" of the Cinque Terre. We'll wander its colorful waterfront, explore its charming lanes and make our way up to the dramatic Church of St. Peter, perched high above the sea with breathtaking views of the Ligurian coastline.

Back on board, the captain will fire up the grill and prepare a delicious lunch featuring freshly grilled seafood, bruschetta and refreshing beverages as we cruise along one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in Italy.

As we make our way north, you'll enjoy a completely different perspective of the Cinque Terre as the colorful villages come into view from the sea, clinging impossibly to the cliffs above. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming and simply soaking in the beauty of this remarkable corner of Italy.

After returning to Monterosso in the late afternoon, the evening is yours to relax and enjoy one last night in the Cinque Terre. Be sure to pack your bags before turning in because tomorrow we continue our adventure in Tuscany!

Includes:

• Scenic train ride to La Spezia
• Private boat excursion through the Gulf of Poets and along the Cinque Terre coastline
• Time to explore the beautiful harbor town of Porto Venere and visit the Church of St. Peter
• Lunch on board featuring freshly grilled seafood, bruschetta and beverages
• Opportunities for swimming and spectacular views of the Cinque Terre from the sea

Day 6: Sunday, May 9th

Today we say goodbye to the sea and head inland to one of Tuscany's most charming and underrated gems: the beautiful walled city of Lucca.

After a scenic transfer through the Tuscan countryside, we'll check into our elegant hotel in the heart of the historic center before gathering for a delicious lunch at one of my favorite local trattorias.

This afternoon, we'll set out with our favorite local guide to discover Lucca's fascinating history, beautiful churches and hidden corners. Once we've explored the city streets, we'll hop on bicycles for one of Lucca's most beloved traditions: a leisurely ride atop the perfectly preserved Renaissance walls that have encircled the city for centuries. Along the way, we'll even venture through the tunnels hidden within the walls themselves.

As evening falls, Lucca takes on an entirely different atmosphere as locals and visitors fill the piazzas, cafés and wine bars that spill onto the cobblestone streets.

The evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps you'll choose dinner in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro while listening to street musicians or a quiet glass of wine in one of the city's charming squares. However you spend it, Lucca has a way of stealing hearts.

Includes:

• Private transfer from Monterosso to Lucca in a comfortable luxury van
• Lunch at a local trattoria
• Private walking tour with our favorite local guide
• Bicycle rental and guided ride along Lucca's famous Renaissance walls, including the historic tunnels

Day 7: Monday, May 10th

Today, we'll roll up our sleeves and experience one of Italy's greatest joys: cooking and sharing a meal together.

Our day begins with a stroll through the historic center of Lucca alongside Chef Matthew Cook, who will introduce us to some of the city's oldest and most beloved bottegas and specialty food shops. Along the way, we'll gather fresh ingredients and discover the traditions, flavors and stories that make Tuscan cuisine so special.

Then it's off to a beautiful setting tucked just beneath Lucca's historic walls for a hands-on cooking class unlike any other. Together, we'll learn the art of making fresh pasta from scratch while Chef Matthew creates a delicious seasonal sauce inspired by whatever fresh vegetables caught his eye at the market that morning. Every class is a little different, making each experience unique and memorable.

Once our culinary masterpieces are complete, we'll sit down together to enjoy the fruits of our labor along with good conversation and, of course, a glass of wine or two.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Browse Lucca's charming boutiques, visit one of its magnificent churches, climb one of the city's historic towers for sweeping views or simply settle into a sunny piazza and watch the world go by.

This evening, we'll gather at the beautiful Church of San Giovanni for "Puccini e la sua Lucca," an unforgettable operatic performance celebrating Lucca's most famous native son.

Afterward, continue your evening with dinner in one of Lucca's inviting piazzas, a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets or perhaps one last stop for gelato. After all, calories don't count in Italy! 😉

Includes:

• Guided shopping experience through Lucca's historic bottegas with Chef Matthew Cook
• Hands-on cooking class featuring fresh pasta and a seasonal sauce inspired by the day's market finds
• Lunch featuring the meal we've prepared together
• Admission to the operatic performance "Puccini e la sua Lucca" at the Church of San Giovanni

Day 8: Tuesday, May 11th

This morning, we'll leave Lucca behind and embark on a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Tuscany, making our first stop in the beautifully preserved walled village of Monteriggioni.

Surrounded by medieval stone walls and towers that have stood watch for centuries, this tiny hill town feels as though it has been frozen in time. We'll enjoy a leisurely lunch before taking some time to wander the cobblestone streets, browse the local shops and soak in the charm of one of Tuscany's most picturesque villages.

Continuing south, we'll arrive in Siena and check into our beautifully restored farmhouse retreat, where panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside await.

Later this afternoon, we'll head into Siena for a private walking tour through one of Italy's most captivating medieval cities. Together, we'll wander narrow lanes and hidden passageways before arriving at the magnificent Siena Duomo, a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece filled with intricate marble floors, stunning artwork and architectural details that never fail to impress.

After our tour, the evening is yours to enjoy. Browse Siena's charming boutiques, relax with an aperitivo in the famous Piazza del Campo or settle into one of the city's inviting restaurants for dinner.

As the day winds down, we'll return to our peaceful farmhouse sanctuary, where the twinkling lights of Siena in the distance create the perfect ending to another unforgettable day in Italy.

Includes:

• Private transfer from Lucca to Siena in a comfortable luxury van
• Lunch in the historic walled town of Monteriggioni
• Private walking tour of Siena with our favorite local guide
• Entrance to the magnificent Siena Duomo

Day 9: Wednesday, May 12th

Today is all about slowing down and savoring some of Tuscany's greatest pleasures: charming hill towns, exceptional wine and the healing power of thermal waters.

Following breakfast at Podere La Strega, we'll set off for the postcard-perfect village of San Quirico d'Orcia, nestled in the heart of the Val d'Orcia. Arriving just as the town begins to stir, we'll have the quiet streets and charming piazzas almost entirely to ourselves. Take time to wander, browse the local shops and soak in the authentic atmosphere of one of Tuscany's hidden gems.

Next, we'll continue to the beautiful Santa Giulia Winery, where we'll enjoy a guided tasting and leisurely lunch overlooking the vineyards and rolling hills of southern Tuscany. You'll sample some of the region's exceptional wines, including the king of Tuscan reds, Brunello di Montalcino, while learning about the traditions and craftsmanship behind these world-famous vintages.

This afternoon, it's time to indulge in one of Italy's favorite traditions: soaking in thermal waters. We'll spend the afternoon at beautiful Terme San Giovanni in Rapolano, where indoor and outdoor pools, hydrotherapy circuits and sweeping countryside views create the perfect setting to relax, recharge and unwind. For those who wish, a soothing massage can make the experience even more blissful.

As the sun begins to set, we'll return to Podere La Strega for a relaxed evening under the Tuscan sky. Gather with friends for wine, conversation and an informal aperitivo featuring the delicious treats we've discovered along our journey through Tuscany.

Includes:

• Private transportation throughout the day
• Time to explore the charming village of San Quirico d'Orcia
• Guided wine tasting and lunch at Santa Giulia Winery featuring Brunello di Montalcino and other local wines
• Admission to Terme San Giovanni with access to the thermal pools and wellness facilities
• A relaxed evening aperitivo at Podere La Strega

Day 10: Thursday, May 13th

Our final full day in Italy brings together some of Tuscany's most beloved treasures: medieval hill towns, beautiful vineyard views, delicious wine and one last celebration in Siena.

We'll begin in the iconic "Town of Fine Towers," San Gimignano. You'll have time to wander its picturesque streets, admire the medieval architecture and browse the charming shops that line this UNESCO World Heritage site. Before we leave, we'll indulge in a sweet treat from the world-famous gelateria, known for its award-winning and inventive flavors.

Next, we'll head to a remarkable female-owned winery nestled on a hillside overlooking San Gimignano's famous skyline. Here, we'll enjoy a leisurely Tuscan lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with a tasting of the estate's exceptional organic wines.

This afternoon, we'll continue to the charming hilltop village of Certaldo Alto. After a short funicular ride to the medieval center, you'll have time to explore its quiet cobblestone streets, admire the historic buildings and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this hidden gem.

After returning to Podere La Strega, there will be time to relax, freshen up and enjoy the villa before we head into Siena for our farewell dinner.

Tonight, we'll gather for one final celebration in the heart of Siena, raising a glass to the unforgettable places we've explored, the memories we've made and the friendships formed along the way.

Includes:

• Private luxury van transportation throughout the day
• Free time to explore San Gimignano, including a sweet treat at a world-famous gelateria
• Traditional Tuscan lunch and organic wine tasting at a female-owned winery overlooking San Gimignano
• Visit to Certaldo Alto, including the funicular ride and time to explore this enchanting medieval village
• Farewell dinner in Siena

Day 11: Friday, May 14th

Today marks the day you start your journey back to the “real” world. We’ll 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've arranged a private transfer or plan to continue your travels by train, we'll ensure your departure is smooth and stress-free. If you’ve chosen to extend your stay in Italy, we’d be happy to offer suggestions for your onward itinerary.

While it’s always sad to say goodbye, this isn’t the end of our journey together. We’ll stay connected in our private Facebook and WhatsApp groups, where we'll share photos, memories, and stories. Arrivederci! 👋💗