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Main Program: September 27, 2024 – October 05, 2024
Pre-Tour: September 24, 2024 – September 28, 2024
Post-Tour: October 05, 2024 – October 08, 2024

Northern Italy Immersion

From art-packed museums and mosaic-filled cathedrals to Roman ruins and scenic hill towns, Northern Italy's riches are plentiful, wide-ranging, and ripe for discovery. Embark on a cultural and gastronomic adventure with this signature journey where days are dedicated to the joy and art of good food and exploration, and evenings are for quiet relaxation at guestrooms in the country. 


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 9/27/2024.

Program Highlights

– With your small group (maximum 19 guests), enjoy seven nights accommodations at a historic country farmhouse amidst an olive oil-producing estate.

– Join hands-on cooking classes with locals who share their families’ histories and favorite recipes.

– In the famed Valeggio sul Mincio region, stroll along the river in the quaint village of Borghetto followed by lunch at a nearby family restaurant known for their tortellini.

– Enjoy a guided tram tour through Parco Giardino Sigurtà—one of Italy’s most impressive natural parks—with time to explore independently.

– At Museo Nicolis, view one of the most prestigious private European collections of 20th-century technology and design. Exhibits range from typewriters to cameras to iconic Italian automobiles, including Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Fiat, and Maserati.

– Enjoy a special excursion near Modena for a tasting of aged balsamic vinegar during a convivial meal with the property’s owner and his family.

– See Palazzo Ducale di Mantova—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—which was the royal residence of the Gonzaga family from 1328 to 1707.

– Delight in a cheese-making demonstration and tasting in the heart of Lessinia, home to a delicious variety of Italian cheeses.

– Spend a relaxing afternoon in Sirmione with free time for an optional boat tour around Lago di Garda.

What's Included

  • 7 nights accommodations
  • 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 7 dinners served with non-alcoholic beverages, each incorporating a variety of Northern Italian preparations and ingredients
  • All lessons, private tours and tastings, and unique small-group excursions noted in the 9-day itinerary
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director and expert local guides
  • Lectures, activities and discussions with Principia Trip Scholar
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

Day 1: En route from U.S.
Friday, September 27, 2024

Day 2: Arrive in Verona, Italy / Province of Brescia (Selva Capuzza)
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Welcome to Italy!

Transfer to Selva Capuzza—a charming Italian farmhouse on a historic, country estate in the Province of Brescia—which will be home base for this week's adventures. Escape the bustling Verona motorway and experience a striking atmospheric dichotomy as paved roads transform into seemingly endless vineyards dotted with towering cypress trees. 

Upon arrival at Borgo San Donino—Selva Capuzza's appartamenti—warm greetings await, making each guest feel as if they've visited countless times before. The property evokes romantic dreams, where every aspect ignites the senses. Remarkable vine-covered stone walls, fresh countryside air, and songbirds trilling lively lilts set the stage for the exciting days to come. 

Settle into your accommodations before meeting fellow travel companions to stroll through the vineyard to Cascina Capuzza, Selva Capuzza's restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (D)

Day 3: Borghetto / Valeggio sul Mincio
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Begin the day with a visit to the Tower of San Martino della Battaglia—a monument positioned on the site of an important historic battle. Traverse the winding incline to reach the top for a 360-degree view of the vast countryside stretching to the waters of Lago di Garda. 

Next set off for the charming hamlet of Borghetto for a leisurely stroll along the Mincio River—a scenic backdrop for photography opportunities. Continue to Valeggio sul Mincio's historic city center to visit family-owned Bue d’Oro Restaurant. Gain insight into the family's nearly century-long tradition of producing tortellini before tasting their classic specialties.

After lunch, garden lovers will delight in visiting one of Italy’s most beautiful parks, Parco Siguarte Gardens. With an extensive size of 600,000 square meters, highlights of the park are a labyrinth maze and 18 water gardens. Autumn at the park is special because of the explosion of colors given by the foliage of the Japanese maples, ginkgo biloba trees, and the numerous asters. 

Return to the property to refresh before Church Service. Dinner at Cascina Capuzza.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,L,D)

Day 4: Selva Capuzza
Monday, September 30, 2024
After a leisurely breakfast, join together to learn the art of preparing fresh pasta and desserts. Chefs from Cascina Capuzza will share their family's traditions, tips, and tricks as you try your hand at making a few pasta varieties. Prepare an assortment of traditional sweet treats, including salami di cioccolato and Cascina Capuzza’s trademark tiramisu! 

Following cooking class, retreat for a lovely lunch, featuring your freshly made fare. After lunch, enjoy a walking tour of the property. Learn its history and partake in an olive oil tasting under the cellar porch. 

Return to the property to refresh. Then gather for a lecture by Trip Scholar Susie Ledbetter before strolling to Cascina Capuzza for a lively dinner with musical entertainment.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,L,D)

Day 5: Verona / Desenzano del Garda
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
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 tour around the city to view the Renaissance Gates of the 16th century and various Roman monuments. 

Then set out by foot for a guided walk along Italy's second longest river, Adige, crossing the 14th-century Castelvecchio Bridge—an iconic photography opportunity—toward the city center. Stop for an inside visit at San Zeno Basilica to admire its Romanesque architecture, centuries-old frescoes, and exceptionally detailed 12th-century bronze doors.

Continue to Piazza delle Erbe, where the courtyard is surrounded by quaint cafés being guarded by the Statue of Dante, and saunter 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 modern music performances.

After lunch on your own, rejoin the group and head to Museo Nicolis. One of the most prestigious private collections in Italy and Europe, the Nicolis Museum tells the story of 20th century technology and design. His masterpieces have been divided into 10 collections: hundreds of vintage cars, bicycles, motorcycles, cameras and typewriters, musical instruments, aircraft, a military area with World War I and II memorabilia, model cars, trains, and planes to name a few.

This evening depart for Desenzano del Garda to have dinner at Osteria alla Torre located at the foot of the historic Tower of San Martino.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,D)

Day 6: Modena / Mantua
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
This morning, set out for Modena to meet Simone Caselli, an award-winning producer of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena. During a private tour, visit the old attic where the Caselli family story of creating balsamic vinegars began and still remains a part of the continuing tradition today. Then retire to 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. 

Next, enjoy a lecture by Susie Ledbetter while you ride to beautiful Mantua. Experience an inside visit to Palazzo Ducale, the former noble residence of the Gonzaga family. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this building is one of the most important Renaissance monuments in Italy. Peruse the museum, or venture into Mantua's main plaza for a bit of free time before returning to Selva Capuzza. On the drive back to Selva Capuzza, participate in a Wednesday church service.

This evening, enjoy dinner at Cascina Capuzza.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,L,D)

Day 7: Milan
Thursday, October 3, 2024
Depart Desenzano for a full day to explore some of Milan's most significant historical landmarks. Learn the city's history and walk by a few famous sights including Piazza della Scala and the medieval architectural wonder, Castello Sforzesco.

Stroll along the cobbled streets of the Brera district—one of the city's most charming and vibrant neighborhoods known for its artistic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Brera seamlessly blends history, art, fashion and a lively social scene, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Enjoy lunch on your own followed by leisure time.

Afterward walk through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an iconic landmark and a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Often referred to as "Milan's living room," this grand shopping arcade is not just a commercial hub but also a cultural and historical symbol of the city.

Continue to Duomo di Milano, Italy's largest church and the centerpiece of Milan. Designed at the height of Gothic architecture, the Duomo is a must-see site with its impressive collection of statues covering the cathedral, roof and Baptistery.

Visit Pinacoteca Ambrosiana art gallery, renowned for its rich collection of works spanning from the Renaissance to the Baroque periods. The gallery is part of the Biblioteca Ambrosiana, one of the oldest libraries in Italy. The Codex Atlanticus, housed in the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, is one of the most important collections of Leonardo da Vinci's drawings and writings, spanning from 1478 to 1519 and covering a wide range of subjects including anatomy, mechanics, mathematics, botany, astronomy, architecture and painting.

Return to Borgo San Donino for dinner at Cascina Capuzza.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,D)

Day 8: Roncà / Soave / Sirmione
Friday, October 4, 2024
Today, discover the culinary delights 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 settling into the tasting room for a sampling of 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 history.

Continue to Sirmione—an idyllic resort town at the tip of a peninsula in Lago di Garda. Spend free time roaming the enlivened streets, enjoy a boat tour, stop at a waterfront café, or peruse the plentiful boutiques for souvenir shopping.

Tonight gather with fellow travelers on the southern shore of Lake Garda for a farewell dinner featuring gourmet Italian pizza.
Overnight: Borgo San Donino (B,L,D)

Day 9: Verona / Depart for U.S.
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Today, guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. Guests continuing on the optional post-tour will depart by train to Venice. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, and can walk up and down stairs without assistance. There is no elevator on the property. Guests with second floor rooms will have 16 steps to climb to reach the second floor. On the estate, unpaved roads and pathways separate its various structures, and walking is required to get from one building to another and to reach the restaurant each evening. The walk is a third of a mile from the lodging area to the restaurant and takes approximately 10 minutes to walk each way.

Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle, and sometimes it is not possible for your motor coach to drop you 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. 

Your Guide(s)

Chiara Sanguineti – Insider, Interpreter, Epicure, Host - Northern Italy Immersion

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Chiara believes food is the best way 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. 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. Catch Chiara's enthusiasm and explore the flavors of this wonderful region with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.

Accommodations

Borgo San Donino, Selva Capuzza

September 28 - October 4

Within arm’s reach of the culture-rich Veneto and Emilia Romagna regions lies Borgo San Donino, a charming farmhouse on the Selva Capuzza estate—also the 1859 battle site of Italy’s fight toward its independence.

The farmhouse apartments and nearby restaurant are the result of many years of dedicated work and provide guests delightful accommodations and generous hospitality.

Stroll the grounds and you might see grape vines being carefully tended by hand or olives ripening for the estate’s own olive oil, just steps away from tables where the harvest is displayed in local dishes. 

Visit the nearby San Martino Tower to admire its majesty from the inside and out. Then follow the tree-lined road to the Chapel of San Martino, which guards those who died in battle.

After a day’s adventures restore your senses amidst the comfortable atmosphere of your apartment—inspired by the beauty of Northern Italy’s landscapes.

Studio: A cozy studio room with an en suite bathroom overlooking the garden. Recommended for single occupancy. Limited availability.

Classic Apartment: A comfortable apartment with a living area, kitchenette, and en suite bathroom overlooking the garden and surrounding countryside.

Superior Apartment: A spacious apartment with a living area, kitchenette, and en suite bathroom. Each room is unique with either vaulted ceilings or a large patio, and views of the vineyard or surrounding countryside.

Room Amenities: Each room is equipped with individual climate control, complimentary Wi-Fi, safe, slippers, and bathroom sundries (shampoo, shower gel, lotion, toothbrush kit, shaving kit, sewing kit, and shower cap) and a hair dryer. (Hair conditioner is not provided.)

NOTE: This property does not have an elevator.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Cinque Terre


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.

Itinerary

Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Day +2: Arrive in Milan, Italy | Sestri Levante
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
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.   
Overnight: Suite Hotel Nettuno 

Day +3: Sestri Levante | Cinque Terre | Sestri Levante
Thursday, September 26, 2024
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 of Monterosso al Mare, Manarola and Vernazza, sampling local culinary specialties like farinata—an amazing chickpea pie—or freshly baked focaccia. Cap off the delightful afternoon with a refreshing lemon granita or creamy gelato. 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.
Overnight: Suite Hotel Nettuno (B,L) 

Day +4: Sestri Levante | Portofino | San Fruttuoso | Santa Margherita Ligure | Sestri Levante
Friday, September 27, 2024
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 Santa Margherita Ligure with its tiny alleys and colorful shops and enjoy lunch at leisure before returning to Sestri Levante.
Overnight: Suite Hotel Nettuno (B)  

Day +5: Sestri Levante | Verona | Main Program Begins
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Enjoy a final morning at leisure in Sestri Levante, then transfer by private vehicle to Verona. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

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.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, can walk up and down hillsides and stairs, and can board/disembark a train or a water vessel without assistance. Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than vehicle. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Accommodations

Suite Hotel Nettuno

September 25 - September 27

This boutique property located on the Bay of Fables exudes splendor from the Art Nouveau period combined with modern comforts and advanced technology.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea marker, minibar, safe, slippers, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 3 nights at Suite Hotel Nettuno (or similar)
  • 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Cinque Terre card for all train transportation within the Cinque Terre
  • Guided touring (by English-speaking guides) and tastings through Cinque Terre's villages
  • Transportation (with unlimited bottled water) for included touring
  • Boat excursion to San Fruttuoso
  • Entrance fee to San Fruttuoso Abbey
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to hotel staff, local guide, drivers for included activities and excursions, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times

Optional Post-Tour

Venice


Ah, Venice. Bask in the gloriously romantic and enchanting atmosphere of the Floating City. Your small group will delight in exploring classic cultural treasures of this remarkable region. Guided tours for sightseeing, meeting with artisans, and learning about glass blowing reveal Venice’s rich layers of history, art, and dedication to good food and drink. 

Itinerary

Day 9: Depart Verona / Arrive Venice
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Arrive in Venice Santa Lucia and transfer to your hotel by private boat. 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. 
Overnight: Hotel Savoia & Jolanda

Day 10: Venice
Sunday, October 6, 2024
Begin the day with a Sunday church service at Hotel San Zaccaria. Then enjoy a guided walk before meeting 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 remainder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel Savoia & Jolanda (B)

Day 11: Venice / Murano / Burano / Venice
Monday, October 7, 2024
After a leisurely breakfast 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.

Next board a private motorboat and cruise to the island of Murano. Here learn about the island's long tradition of glassmaking dating back to the 13th century. The small island is one of the most prominent centers of glassmaking in the world. Enjoy a private visit to an exclusive glass blowing factory to see artisans creating exquisite objects.

Continue to Burano by private water taxi for a guided walking tour. Burano is famous for their colored houses and lace. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by free time to explore. Then return to your hotel by private motorboat.
Overnight: Hotel Savoia & Jolanda (B,L)

Day 12: Depart Venice for U.S.
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

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.)

Activity Level

Moderate

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on cobbled surfaces, can walk up and down hillsides and stairs, and can board/disembark a water vessel without assistance. Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than vehicle. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Accommodations

Hotel Savoia & Jolanda

October 5 - October 7

Gain a true taste of Venice while relaxing at the upscale Hotel Savoia & Jolanda. Strategically located next to St. Mark's Square and right on the main waterway, this historical property features traditional touches including 18th-century-style furnishings, terrazzo flooring, marble-topped tables, gilt-scroll mirrors and Murano glass chandeliers. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, alarm clock, phone, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • Transfer by train (in business class) from Desenzano del Garda to Venice accompanied by your Orbridge Travel Director
  • 3 nights accommodations at Hotel Savoia & Jolanda (or similar)
  • 3 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Guided touring accompanied by an art historian
  • Private visit to an artisan mask workshop
  • Private gondola boatyard visit
  • Private glass blowing factory visit
  • Private water taxi transportation for canal and lagoon tours
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to hotel staff, local guide, drivers for included activities and excursions, porters, and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfer for guests departing during the suggested time on departure day

Terms and Conditions