Upon our arrival in Rome, we’ll be greeted by our local tour host and begin our scenic drive north to the heart of Tuscany. We’ll pause for a delightful lunch before arriving in the enchanting town of Colle Val d’Elsa. Once an elegant XVII-century palace, our hotel welcomes us with crystal chandeliers and timeless charm. Nestled on a quaint, narrow street, this hotel is a local treasure, offering an authentic taste of Italy without the usual hustle and bustle. Tonight, we’ll celebrate our arrival with a sumptuous welcome dinner, complete with a glass of Italian wine and a rich espresso to cap off the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Today’s journey takes us deep into the Tuscan countryside, where we’ll visit a family-run farm specializing in saffron, the “gold” of the spice world. After learning about its fascinating history in Italy, we’ll indulge in a light lunch featuring this luxurious ingredient. Our adventure continues to San Gimignano, often called “The Manhattan of the Middle Ages” for its towering skyline. Here, our private guide will share tales of medieval rivalry as we stroll through the ancient streets, ending our tour with a taste of Mr. Dondoli’s award-winning gelato—a treat you won’t soon forget.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, awaits us today. We’ll explore its iconic landmarks on a guided walking tour that ends at the historic Central Market, where you’ll have the chance to purchase some of the city’s most beloved local products. After a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, you’ll have time to wander through Florence’s enchanting streets, perhaps pausing for a coffee along the Arno River as you soak in the city’s timeless beauty.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Today, we drive into the rolling hills of Chianti, a region as famous for its wines as it is for its picturesque landscapes. Our day begins with a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes, followed by a leisurely lunch featuring these culinary creations and a taste of Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine paired with cantucci cookies. This evening, we’ll dine at a castle in Chianti, enjoying a refined Tuscan dinner complemented by a robust Chianti wine.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Today, we bid farewell to Tuscany and make our way to Umbria, but not before stopping in the medieval town of Montepulciano. Here, we’ll descend into ancient wine cellars carved into the rock, where you’ll experience the rich flavours of “vino nobile” in a setting that exudes history and tradition. Afterward, we continue to Gubbio, where we’ll check into a beautifully restored 17th-century convent, now a special hotel. Set amidst serene grounds, this hotel is a member of the “Small Luxury Hotels of the World” and features an eclectic mix of art from the 15th century to modern times.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Our journey through Umbria takes us to Assisi, where we’ll start with a visit to an ancient olive oil mill for a tasting of this liquid gold. In Assisi, a private guided tour will lead us through the serene streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including a visit to the Basilica di San Francesco. Discover why pilgrims have flocked to this spiritual haven for centuries.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Today, we’ll partake in a truly unique experience—truffle hunting in the Umbrian woods. Join Antonio and his truffle-sniffing dogs as we search for these prized delicacies. After our adventure, we’ll savour a truffle-based lunch prepared by our gracious hosts. The afternoon will be spent visiting charming villages, where time seems to stand still amidst the historic houses and shops.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

As our journey comes to a close, we return to Rome for our final night in Italy. After lunch, enjoy a panoramic tour of the Eternal City before we gather for a farewell dinner at our tranquil hotel, celebrated for its peaceful setting within a park, away from the city’s bustle. This hotel has earned the prestigious Conde Nast Reader’s Choice Award, making it the perfect place to reflect on the memories we’ve made.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

After a delightful breakfast, we’ll head to the airport for our afternoon flight back to Toronto. Welcome back to Canada. Enjoy an overnight stay at the Hilton Toronto Airport, complete with parking for the duration of this journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B/L/D)

Continue home, taking memories of an unforgettable Italian journey. Thank you for joining me.