per person based on double occupancy
—No single supplement on Single (Classic) only—
Embark upon a cultural and gastronomic journey to the enchanting region of Northern Italy—an area renowned for spectacular landscapes, world-class wine, and a rich heritage. This meticulously crafted itinerary offers the unique opportunity to live like a local, featuring guided tours, private artisan visits and tastings, and the ability to deeply connect with the beauty of Northern Italy's culture, cuisine and gracious hospitality.
– With your small group, enjoy seven nights accommodations at a historic country farmhouse—a tranquil haven amidst a wine and olive oil-producing estate.
– Join a hands-on culinary experience with a skilled chef to learn the art of crafting traditional Italian recipes passed down through generations.
– Cruise around scenic Lago d'Iseo with free time to discover its various island hamlets.
– Wander through Verona's timeless streets, visit Juliet's House, and be mesmerized by the grandeur of the Verona Arena.
– In the famed Valpolicella and Trentino wine regions, visit family-owned and operated vineyards, meeting the esteemed vintners and partaking in exclusive tastings and presentations.
– Delight in a special excursion near Modena for a tasting of aged balsamic vinegar during a convivial meal with the property’s owner and his family.
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Verona, Italy | Province of Brescia (Selva Capuzza)
Day 3: Sulzano | Lago d’Iseo | Franciacorta
Day 4: Selva Capuzza
Day 5: Verona | Valpolicella
Day 6: Vallagarina | Malcesine
Day 7: Modena
Day 8: Roncà | Soave | Sirmione
Day 9: Verona | Depart for U.S.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, October 3, 2025
Day 2: Arrive in Verona, Italy | Province of Brescia (Selva Capuzza)
Saturday, October 4, 2025 (D)
Upon arrival to Verona's Valerio Catullo Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the property.
Selva Capuzza, a charming Italian farmhouse on a historic, country wine estate, will be your home base for this week's adventures. Warm greetings await at Borgo San Donino—Selva Capuzza's appartamenti. Exuding the classic charm of Italian architecture, the property's well-preserved historic buildings feature rustic stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and inviting accommodations—a harmonious blend of elegant simplicity and the warmth of genuine Italian hospitality.
Take time to unpack and settle in before meeting fellow travel companions to stroll the vineyard path to Cascina Capuzza, Selva Capuzza's restaurant, for a welcome drink and dinner.
Day 3: Sulzano | Lago d'Iseo | Franciacorta
Sunday, October 5, 2025 (B,L,D)
After breakfast depart for Sulzano, a small village on the east shore of Lago d'Iseo to embark upon a picturesque boat tour. A hidden gem of Northern Italy, this area is light on crowds and brimming with stunning scenery.
Arriving to the main island enjoy leisure time to explore the quaint town of Perschiera Maraglio and take advantage of endless photography opportunities. Visit the fishing net museum at the hamlet, Siviano. Learn about the generations of fishing traditions, and see the museum owners vast collection of documents, photographs and other artifacts that pay tribute to their roots.
Return to the mainland for a short drive to Italy's Franciacorta region in the heart of Lombardy. This small district is internationally acclaimed for its award-winning sparkling wine produced in the metodo classico, and is often referred to as the Champagne of Italy. It was the first sparkling wine from this area to receive the industry's highest designation of quality (DOCG) distinction.
Spend a tranquil afternoon at Al Rocol, a vineyard once managed by four share-farmer families, for a guided cellar tour, wine tasting and lunch. Learn about the varietals produced with grapes grown in terraced vineyards using the Guyot system and other methods, and sample the labels that have won silver and bronze medals in international competition.
This evening savor traditional Italian cuisine expertly crafted by the skilled chefs at Cascina Capuzza who create exquisite dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
Day 4: Selva Capuzza
Monday, October 6, 2025 (B,L,D)
Today offers a special opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the serenity and authenticity of Selva Capuzza. After a leisurely breakfast meet with a chef from Cascina Capuzza as they share their families traditions, tips and tricks surrounding the art of preparing fresh pasta and desserts. The dishes and sweets will be paired with wine from the property for a lovely lunch.
This afternoon relax in the gardens or join a guided walking tour of the property followed by a wine presentation and tasting.
Later gather together for another delicious dinner at Cascina Capuzza.
Day 5: Verona | Valpolicella
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 (B,D)
Today explore Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a long colorful history and infinite artistic architectural landmarks. Meet with a local guide for a panoramic city tour to view the 16th-century Renaissance Gates and various Roman monuments.
Stroll alongside the Adige, Italy's second longest river, crossing the 14th-century Castelvecchio Bridge—an iconic photography opportunity—toward Verona's city center. Stop at San Zeno Basilica for an inside visit to admire its Romanesque architecture, centuries-old frescoes and exceptionally detailed 12th-century bronze doors.
Continue to Piazza delle Erbe, a courtyard surrounded by quaint cafés guarded by the Statue of Dante, and meander through the cobblestone streets to capture a glimpse of Juliet’s balcony. Visit the Roman amphitheater, Verona's best preserved Roman monument. Once an arena that hosted jousting matches and carnage-filled gladiator games, the current structure—impacted by numerous earthquakes throughout the years—serves as an open-air theater for operas and other performances.
After lunch on your own rejoin the group for a drive north to the hills of the Valpolicella wine region to meet winemaker Giuseppe Lonardi, one of the best producers of Amarone in Italy. Tour the winery before sampling a few varietals, including Giuseppe's special blend, Privilegia.
Walk through the bucolic neighborhood to a tiny bistro where you'll meet Chef Vittorio to create slow-cooked, Amarone-infused risotto. As it’s stirred by hand over a wood fire, learn of other traditional seasonal and regional fare. Be seated to indulge in a freshly prepared dinner featuring the decadent Amarone risotto.
Day 6: Vallagarina | Malcesine
Wednesday, October 8, 2025 (B,L,D)
Following breakfast at the property visit the Tower of San Martino della Battaglia—a monument positioned on the site of an important historic battle. Traverse the winding staircase to reach the top for 360º views of the vast countryside stretching to the waters of Lago di Garda.
Later head north to the de Tarczal estate in the mountainous Trentino region of Northern Italy. Renowned for centuries for the quality and variety of its distinguished grapes, this prestigious family-operated vineyard specializes in classic local varietals. Tour the cellars, delight in a wine tasting and gather in “la Vineria” for lunch featuring local ingredients.
Before returning to Selva Capuzza for dinner discover the lively medieval village of Malcesine along the shores of Lago di Garda. Wander the sloping cobbled streets popping into various boutiques and artisan shops. Make the short climb up to historic Scaliger Castle to capture the majestic panoramic views of the lake and town below.
Day 7: Modena
Thursday, October 9, 2025 (B,L,D)
Today travel to Modena where you'll meet Simone Caselli, an award-winning producer of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena. During a private tour see the old attic where the Caselli family story of creating balsamic vinegars began and still remains a part of the continuing tradition today. Settle into the tasting room to compare the characteristics of three aged balsamic vinegars, followed by lunch including an array of homemade regional dishes featuring various Aceto vinegars.
Return to the property for some time at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll around the grounds or relax in a chaise lounge by the pool. (Pool is open June-August.)
This evening gather together at Cascina Capuzza for a special dinner accompanied by live music.
Day 8: Roncà | Soave | Sirmione
Friday, October 10, 2025 (B,L,D)
Late morning discover the culinary treasures of the Lessinia region, known for its lush pastures, olive groves, and cherry and chestnut orchards. Visit La Casara—a family-run, artisan cheese shop in the Roncà municipality. Enjoy an up-close cheese-making demonstration and venture into the cheese cellar before adjourning to the tasting room to sample La Casara's savory creations.
Departing Roncà make a short photography stop in the walled medieval town of Soave. View its famous castle and learn about the town's important regional position and historic relationship with wine.
En route to Selva Capuzza stop for leisure time in the idyllic waterfront village of Sirmione located at the tip of a peninsula in Lago di Garda. Explore the bustling streets, sip a cold aperitivo al fresco at a café or peruse the storefronts for souvenir shopping.
Tonight join fellow travel companions on the southern shore of Lake Garda for a farewell dinner featuring gourmet Italian pizza. Embrace the convivial atmosphere and celebrate the captivating week spent exploring Northern Italy.
Day 9: Verona | Depart for U.S.
Saturday, October 11, 2025 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Classic: | $5,395 |
| Superior: | $5,695 |
| Single (Classic): | $5,395 |
| Single (Studio): | $5,095 |
—No single supplement on Single (Classic) only—
*Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Explore the Italian Riviera, an area teeming with meaningful traditions surrounding family, culture, and cuisine. Cinque Terre is also a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing visitors to its coastal scenery and sunset panoramas.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch
Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Day +2: Arrive in Milan, Italy | Sestri Levante
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
After arriving in Milan, enjoy the scenic drive to the Italian Riviera. The afternoon is at leisure to relax and explore the fishing hamlet, Sestri Levante.
Day +3: Sestri Levante | Cinque Terre | Sestri Levante
Thursday, October 2, 2025 (B,L)
Following breakfast, board a local train to travel the coastline, arriving at Cinque Terre—a fairy-tale-esque area of hamlets brimming with pastel-hued homes—which exude unparalleled charm.
Explore the lively towns and experience a culinary specialty at each stop. Start in Monterosso al Mare and sample freshly baked focaccia or farinata—an amazing local chickpea pie. In Manarola, enjoy the area’s popular dessert white wine, Sciacchetrà. Cap off the delightful day with the best lemon granita and a creamy gelato in Vernazza. There will be some flexibility in the towns visited and local specialties tasted depending on weather conditions and the number of guests on the tour.
Day +4: Sestri Levante | Portofino | San Fruttuoso | Santa Margherita Ligure | Sestri Levante
Friday, October 3, 2025 (B)
Transfer to stunning Portofino, a picturesque fishing village along the Italian Riviera. Sail by private gozzo (a traditional wooden boat with a large sundeck) to the abbey of San Fruttuoso, and discover the sacred building dating back to the 16th century. Then stroll lively Santa Margherita Ligure with its tiny alleys and colorful shops and enjoy lunch at leisure before returning to Sestri Levante.
Day +5: Sestri Levante | Verona | Main Program Begins
Saturday, October 4, 2025 (B)
After breakfast take advantage of time to explore Sestri Levante independently including lunch on your own. This afternoon transfer by private vehicle to Verona to join guests arriving for the main program.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Classic: | $2,595 |
| Single: | $3,395 |
*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Experience the allure of Venice as you immerse yourself in the romantic charms of the Floating City. During guided exploration, uncover timeless cultural gems, encounter artisans and witness their craftsmanship and savor traditional cuisine that defines the essence of this remarkable place.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch
Day 9: Depart Verona | Arrive Venice
Saturday, October 11, 2025
Arriving in Venice Santa Lucia transfer to your hotel by water taxi. In the afternoon enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Venice from the water. Cross the Grand Canal, the city’s main “street,” lined on either side by palaces, churches, hotels and other public buildings in various architectural styles. Connecting waterways bustle with transport as automobiles are banned throughout much of the city. See iconic landmarks, including St. Mark's Square, Giudecca and San Giorgio Maggiore. The rest of the afternoon and the evening are at leisure.
Day 10: Venice | Mazzorbo | Burano | Venice
Sunday, October 12, 2025 (B,L)
After a leisurely breakfast board private motorboats to reach the island of Mazzorbo. Rich in agricultural tradition, here one finds hundreds of artichoke fields, vineyards and fruit trees. Visit a local vineyard and discover how wine producers have overcome the challenges of the area's high tides to create celebrated Venetian wines. Savor a lunch pairing a menu with various wines produced by the property. Traditional dishes, such as locally caught fish and shellfish with fresh vegetables and wild herbs cultivated on the grounds, are highlights of this delightful, relaxed osteria—traditionally a wine bar recognized for its welcoming and informal atmosphere.
Cross a pedestrian bridge and explore colorful Burano at your own pace. Perhaps in Galuppi Square engage with locals to admire the lacework, Burano's main craft product. Lacemaking dates back to the 1500s, and the island has precious works from the Burano Lace School's collection exhibited in a museum. Then return to the hotel by private motorboat.
Day 11: Venice
Monday, October 13, 2025 (B)
This morning visit a squero, or boatyard, to learn the fascinating secrets of the art and science of traditional gondola construction. See these symbols of Venice under construction, and hear about the techniques used by artisans to build and repair gondolas for generations. Discover how proud craftsmen use multiple kinds of wood to build their vessels.
Later meet an artisan who creates amazing masks and learn about the history of the Venetian Carnival. The tradition of mask making dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in the city's vibrant Carnival celebrations. Masks were initially worn during the annual festivities, which began in the Middle Ages as a period of revelry and indulgence before the solemn observance of Lent.
Venetian mask making evolved into a highly skilled craft, with artisans known as "maschereri" crafting exquisite masks using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The masks are considered works of art, depicting styles ranging from elegant and ornate to whimsical and theatrical.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 12: Venice | Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 (B)
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flights home.
Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Classic: | $2,295 |
| Single: | $2,995 |
*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Orbridge strongly recommends that you purchase travel and cancellation insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected or unforeseen circumstances. It is best to look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. Depending on the insurance provider, some coverage can be linked to timing of initial payment. Check your options carefully. If you are on an international departure, you should purchase travel insurance that—at a minimum—provides emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage. Information regarding an insurance program will be sent to you directly from your alumni association. You also may wish to visit your alumni association’s travel website at https://usa.meyerandassoc.com/travel-insurance/ for more information.
Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.
Chiara believes wine and food are the best ways to understand and get to know a country. Chiara is Milano-born and lived in Northern Italy for many years. After studying art and literature, she relocated to Tuscany where she worked with the producer of the famous Chianti Classico in the hills between Siena and Florence. In charge of export, grape harvest and olive oil production, she is an expert in her knowledge of Italian foods and wine. Having owned an Agriturismo working farm in the Siena countryside, she understands what people appreciate most about the significance of Italy’s ‘slow food’ roots. Speaking five languages and a gifted sommelier, she is among the founders of the national association “Donne del Vino” (women of wine). Catch Chiara's enthusiasm and explore the flavors of this wonderful region with added confidence, understanding and appreciation.
Orbridge looks forward to welcoming you on tour. Find frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for your travels.
NOTE: For guests confirmed on this tour, important Program Documents will be sent to the email address provided during the reservation process approximately four to five months prior to your departure date. Final Documents will be emailed and shipped via FedEx approximately two weeks prior to your departure date.
If you have questions about those documents or have questions not addressed below, contact Orbridge Guest Services at (206) 855-6929 or via email at guestservices@orbridge.com.
Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, guests should be able to enjoy two hours or more of walking, be sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, and be able to walk up and down stairs without assistance.
The farmhouse apartments are not equipped with elevators, so guests with second floor rooms will climb a 16-step stairway. Unpaved roads and pathways separate the apartments, winery, and restaurant, and walking is required between each. The walk between the apartments and restaurant is one-third of a mile and takes approximately 10 minutes.
Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle, and sometimes it's not possible for motor coaches to drop off at site entrances. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited. Also, dexterity to use kitchen tools and participate in lessons is not necessary, but adds to the enjoyment of this program.
Arrival and departure information is provided in the Air & Transfer section of the Confirmation Documents emailed to reserved guests approximately five to seven days after booking a tour. Guests who arrive and depart during the suggested times are eligible to receive complimentary airport transfers. If you need an additional copy of your Confirmation Documents or have questions, email guestservices@orbridge.com for assistance.
A visa is not required.
A passport is required for all U.S. citizens traveling internationally.
Ensure that your passport has sufficient space for entry and exit stamps, and that it is valid for six months after the date of your return from this tour. U.S. passports issued to citizens 16 years of age or older is valid for 10 years.
Send a copy of your passport photo page to Orbridge at least 90 days prior to departure.
If you are not a U.S. citizen and are traveling abroad for tourism purposes, you will require a passport from your country of citizenship. You may require a visa, depending upon your country of citizenship's requirements for visiting countries on this tour. Check your visa status with those countries you will visit during your travel program and obtain visas, if needed.
Should you need the assistance of a visa specialist, we recommend using G3 Global Services. Along with the cost of the visa, a fee is charged for their service. Learn more here.
The euro (EUR) is Italy's legal currency. The euro coin series is comprised of eight denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent, €1 and €2. The euro banknote series is comprised of seven denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500.
We recommend securing euros in the U.S. prior to departure. Note that the value of foreign currency fluctuates based on the current exchange rate.
ATMs are available at the destination airport but otherwise may not be readily accessible during the program. Check with your bank to ensure you can use your ATM card in a foreign country. Carry some local currency to cover purchases with merchants who may not accept credit cards, as well as a few euro coins to access public restrooms.
Traveler’s checks are rarely accepted by local merchants.
Major credit cards are widely accepted, however merchants may require a minimum purchase. Credit card purchases may be subject to a higher exchange rate versus purchases using local currency. Keep all receipts in case you have questions about the conversion rate, and as proof of purchase for any items to be shipped.
Inform your bank or credit card company prior to departure that you will be using your card(s) in another country to avoid security blocks. Your bank or credit card company may charge a fee for international transactions.
Northern Italy is generally mild and pleasant year-round. During spring, temperatures range from the mid-60s ºF to mid- to low-40s º F. During summer, temperatures peak in the 80s ºF with lows in the 60s ºF. During fall, highs are in the 70s ºF and lows are in the 50s ºF.
Light showers are possible regardless of the season but are most common in the spring months.
Check the predicted forecast for your travel dates on weather.com to help you prepare.
Italy uses Type C electrical outlets—two-wire ungrounded and unpolarized prongs—on a 220V system.
North American 110V or 120V appliances require a converter to operate on a 220V system. Use a high quality electric current converter to avoid risk of burning out your device. We recommend purchasing an international adapter/converter set so that your two-or three-prong plug can connect to the electrical outlets and convert the voltage.
While cellular service is available throughout Europe (though unreliable in more remote areas) your U.S.-based cell phone may or may not work depending on your phone plan. Prior to travel, check with your cell phone provider about international phone plans, international fees, and service availability.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at the property throughout all the buildings.
When entering a church or cathedral, shoulders must be covered, and shorts and skirts must reach the knee.
If ordering wine from local vintners, be aware of any state laws prohibiting alcohol shipments to your state of residence.
Porterage for one piece of luggage is included in the program price. We recommend limiting luggage to one medium-sized piece and one small carry-on per person.
Casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate for this program. It's recommended to dress according to the day's activities. For example, when visitng a church or cathedral, shoulders must be covered, and shorts and skirts must reach the knee. Denim jeans can be worn in most situations.
Dinner attire is European casual, which is typically a bit more formal than in the U.S. Depending upon the season, this can include skirts or dress pants/slacks, nice blouses, button-down polos, button-down and collared long-sleeve shirts, light sweaters, and a comfortable pair of black or brown walking shoes or flats instead of athletic shoes.
Bring comfortable shoes. Although there will be ample time for sitting, you will be on your feet often and walking daily.
Consider packing travel laundry soap if you wish to wash clothing. Laundry service is available at the property only on certain week days for an additional fee.
A packing list will be included with your Final Documents. Use this form to personalize for your own needs.
The online Guest Information (GIF) does not allow you return and make updates once originally submitted. To update existing information, email the details to guestservices@orbridge.com, and your account will be updated accordingly.
To complete the GIF for the first time, access the secure online form here. It should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The system will not save partially completed forms, so it's important to complete and submit the form in one sitting.
Access the secure passport form here to input information and upload an electronic copy.
Some domestic tours require us to collect a copy of the photo ID you plan to use while traveling in order to confirm on-tour arrangements. If you have been requested to provide a copy, upload a copy of your ID here.
To pay by check, make the check payable to Orbridge LLC and mail it to:
Orbridge
P.O. Box 1376
Poulsbo, WA 98370
To pay by credit card, click here to access our secure online credit card portal. Be sure to click “submit information” at the bottom of page one in order to be directed to the payment screen.
To pay by electronic funds transfer (EFT), click here to access our secure payment portal where you will be able to conveniently and securely provide your account and routing number.
Payments made by check or EFT may be eligible for a discount. Reference your final payment reminder or email guestservices@orbridge.com to learn more.
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