Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the enchanting landscapes of northern Italy, where history, culture, and cuisine weave together in perfect harmony. Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Bologna, a treasure trove of medieval landmarks and culinary delights. Stroll through its historic streets before indulging in Michelin-starred dining that reimagines classic Italian flavors. Take part in an immersive pasta-making class, where you’ll craft traditional dishes under the guidance of local experts. Next, venture to Modena, the birthplace of exquisite balsamic vinegar, and treat your palate to tastings paired with celebrated regional wines. Finally, immerse yourself in the charm of Parma, a city renowned for its world-famous Parma ham and a legacy of artistic brilliance. From sumptuous feasts to cultural treasures, this experience promises to leave you inspired, enriched, and utterly enchanted.
Upon your arrival, a private driver will whisk you away to your hotel, where Chef Fonzo await with a proper welcome drink in hands. The rest of the day is at leisure, yet lunch spots will be suggested should you find yourself arriving early. The night will unfold with a memorable welcome dinner at I Portici, a Michelin-starred restaurant set inside a beautifully restored art-nouveau building, where the elegant, contemporary ambiance perfectly complements the exceptional cuisine. Here, traditional Bolognese flavors are elevated with a modern twist, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
This morning after breakfast, we depart on a walking tour of Bologna, exploring iconic landmarks such as Piazza Maggiore, Neptune's Fountain, the Basilica of Saint Petronio, and the Leaning Towers of Asinelli and Garisenda. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local trattoria favored by Chef Fonzo and vetted on his last journey to the city. There, savor traditional Bolognese dishes. Take the rest of the day and evening to explore more of Bologna at your own pace. Restaurant recommendations will be made by your host.
After a light breakfast, we head to a local market to gather fresh ingredients for our hands-on cooking class. Learn the art of making pasta from scratch and enjoy the delicious dishes you have prepared paired with some of the regional wines. The afternoon is yours to relax and explore at leisure. Tonight, we regroup to conclude our Bologna adventure with a final, memorable dinner, paired with carefully selected wines, celebrating the flavors of this beautiful city.
After a leisurely morning, we depart for Modena, a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, including its world-famous balsamic vinegar. On the way, we stop at a family-owned winery, where we’ll enjoy a delightful tasting and take a tour of the vineyards, learning about the winemaking process. Following the tour, we enjoy lunch at leisure. After checking into our accommodation in Modena, take some time to relax and settle in before preparing for a wonderful dinner, marking the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and indulgence.
Begin the day with a food walking tour of Moderna, delving into its rich history and culinary traditions. Explore the charming streets and landmarks, and visit the vibrant Mercato Albinelli, where you can sample local specialties and soak in the atmosphere. Next, experience the art of balsamic vinegar production with a tour and tasting at Acetaia Giusti, a renowned vinegar producer in the region. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure. Restaurant recommendations will be made by your host.
After breakfast, we make our way to the Parma region, where we spend the day. We travel through the beautiful countryside where the sea breeze crosses the hills and makes this area ideal for Parma ham making. Inside a Parma ham factory, follow the journey of this prestigious ham from careful meat selection to its meticulous aging. We then treat you to lunch at one of our favorite trattorias before continuing our food adventure at a local Parmigiano Reggiano cheese maker. Back in Modena, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Restaurant recommendations will be made by your host.
We start the day with a short drive outside of Modena, with a visit to one of our favorite farms. There, we discover - and taste - the secrets behind the region’s renowned wines and local products. We enjoy a light lunch at the farm, specially prepared for our group, before immersing ourselves in the world of automotive history at the Enzo Ferrari Museum. Back in Modena, we later celebrate another incredible journey through Italy with our farewell dinner at L'Erba Del Re, a Michelin restaurant. Embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the best of Italian gastronomy, paired with some of its best wines.
After a final breakfast, you are transferred to Bologna Airport for your flight back to the US, marking the end of a memorable journey through the heart of Italy. As you depart, take with you unforgettable memories of beautiful cities, world-class cuisine, and rich cultural experiences. Why not extend a few days to Venice, Florence, Rome, or beyond? Our travel designers would be delighted to assist in making this happen.
Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.
All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
Travel insurance, once purchased, goes into effect upon payment of the premium. You have 15 days from that date to cancel it (providing no claims have been filed or initiated during that period). Beyond 15 days, it becomes non-refundable/non-changeable/non-transferrable.
In case of a cancelation at more than 90 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $500 per person administrative fee.
In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $500 per person administrative fee.