Day 1—Welcome to Milano! Today we’ll kick off our adventure in the fashion and business capital of Italy. After a welcome toast at our hotel we’ll head out to get oriented and enjoy dinner and an evening on the town. (Sleep 3 nights in Milan)

Day 2—What better way to start the day than to see and learn about Leonardo’s Last Supper. This truly iconic work of art has been inspiring artists and visitors alike for centuries. 

After our visit we’ll meander through to the heart of Milan to visit the 19th century shopping gallery and finish our morning at Milan’s gothic cathedral. The afternoon is yours to enjoy this modern city at your own pace. In the evening we’ll enjoy an apericena or light dinner with a drink in one of Milano’s vibrant local neighborhoods. 

Day 3—Today we’ll delve into the fascinating history of the city with our local guide as we visit the Sforza castle which is not only a castle but a host to a wide range of museums. We will finish our morning together at the castle so you can experience more of it on your own or choose to set out for further exploration of Milano. 

Day 4—This morning we’ll say “Arrivederci” to the hustle and bustle of the city and make our way to the charming small town of Cremona. Home to Antonio Stradivari, Cremona still is a world leader in violin craftsmanship. We will get an inside look at the rich history and fascinating process of violin making. There will be time to wander the town and grab a bite to eat before we depart for Parma. After settling into our hotel we’ll stop in at a local eatery for dinner together. (Sleep 3 nights in Parma)

Day 5—Most people think Bologna is king when it comes to food in Italy. However, this morning we’ll dive into the Parma food scene and be left with full stomachs and a new appreciation for what makes this town in the running for the crown! In the afternoon there is much more to explore. We’ll be armed with the necessary info to make the most of this charming town. 

Day 6—Get your motors started, the bells are ringing in Maranello. We're off to visit the nearby Ferrari museum and factory. Much more than a luxury car, Ferrari is an international symbol of Italian style and excellence. For lunch we’ll head to a local Balsamic vinegar producer where we can also taste this local staple. In the afternoon it’s back to Parma with time to explore on your own and choose from a wide range of dinner options. 

Day 7—The Ligurian coast is mostly famous for the Cinque Terre but right around the corner is the Bay of Poets and the colorful town of Portovenere. We will wind our way through the area of the Lunigiana after a morning stop at a local Parmesan producer. After we explore an often overlooked corner of the country on the boarder of Liguria and Tuscany we’ll find our way to our seaview hotel in Portovenere. (Sleep 3 nights in Portovenere)

Day 8—We’re half way through our adventure and this is the perfect moment to take a break! We have no scheduled activities today so you can enjoy yourself any way you wish. There is plenty to do or not to do in this picture perfect region. 

Day 9—Just in front of Portovenere lies the sparsely inhabited island of Palmaria. Together we’ll explore the island in the morning and stay for a lingering lunch. In the afternoon you can explore the island further or head back to Portovenere. 

Day 10—Heading inland across the Lugurian border into Tuscany we’ll drive up into the hills to discover the quarries of Carrara. These hills have been used for over 2000 years to provide the world with pristine white marble. We will tour the quarries and stop in the village of Colonnata. In the afternoon we’re off to Tuscan wine country. (Sleep 3 nights near Bolgheri)

Day 11—The Tuscan coast is home to some of the most famous wineries in the country. Today we’ll visit a range of producers to get an intimate look at the local wine culture and taste for ourselves what makes this area so special. We will also explore lesser known hilltowns to get a feel for what it’s like for modern Italians to live in medieval villages.

Day 12—The Etruscans not only gave their name to the region but were foundational to the ancient Romans. Today we get a fascinating look at these pre-Roman people while we explore a local archeological site along with a small hill top town overlooking the Mediterranean sea in this often overlooked corner of Tuscany.

Day 13—It’s time to celebrate the patron saint of Pisa. Every year on June 16th Pisa pulls out all of the stops to hail Saint Ranieri. After we are settled in our historic hotel we’ll see the famous leaning tower and Field of Miracles. In the evening we’ll dine together then sit back, relax and get ready for an incredible late night fireworks show to celebrate this medieval local hero. (Sleep 1 night in Pisa)

Day 14—We end our adventure together after breakfast. We can help with transportation to the airport or post tour plans.

Tour itinerary subject to change.