per person based on double occupancy
—No single supplement—
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: 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, May 1, 2026
Day 2: Arrive in Verona, Italy | Province of Brescia (Selva Capuzza)
Saturday, May 2, 2026 (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, an 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: Lago d'Iseo | Franciacorta
Sunday, May 3, 2026 (B,L,D)
After breakfast depart for 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, May 4, 2026 (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, May 5, 2026 (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, May 6, 2026 (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, May 7, 2026 (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, May 8, 2026 (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, May 9, 2026 (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: | $5,695 |
| Superior: | $5,995 |
| Single (Classic): | $5,695 |
| Single (Studio): | $5,695 |
*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. Unless noted otherwise, 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 9: Depart Verona | Arrive in Sestri Levante
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Departing Verona, enjoy the scenic drive to the Italian Riviera.
Check into the hotel and take advantage of the afternoon and evening at leisure to relax and explore this alluring fishing hamlet.
Day 10: Sestri Levante | Cinque Terre | Sestri Levante
Sunday, May 10, 2026 (B,L)
Following breakfast board a local train to travel the coastline, arriving at Cinque Terre—an enchanting cluster of hamlets where pastel-hued homes 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 lovely 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 11: Portofino | San Fruttuoso | Santa Margherita Ligure
Monday, May 11, 2026 (B)
After breakfast 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 12: Sestri Levante | Milan | Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 (B)
Delight in a final morning at leisure in Sestri Levante. Guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Milan Malpensa 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* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $2,695 |
| Single: | $3,595 |
*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, 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://alumni.trawickinternational.com/school/ for more information.
The EXPLORERS program is open to alumni of the University of Illinois, their families, and friends.
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.
As you explore the region's culinary and cultural flavors, an Orbridge Travel Director will infuse your journey with an epicure’s appreciation of food and wine, a local’s knowledge and pride of place, and a travel aficionado’s ability to enrich the beauty of all senses to your discoveries.
Whether at a wine tasting, visiting with locals, sightseeing, or raising a glass with you over an exquisitely crafted meal, the contribution of your Travel Director is essential to the intimate and educational qualities that distinguish this program. Catch their 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.
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