Become a Tuscan Chef For a Day

When in Florence....cook as if you were a real Tuscan chef! This shared cooking class takes place in a typical Tuscan setting - a fully equipped, professional kitchen installed in a building, just a few steps from the Duomo and the Central Market. Chef Giovanni and his assistant Andrea will accompany you and the other participants of the class to the Central Market where you will select the freshest ingredients for your meal. They will teach you how to choose the best among the products offered, and as you shop, you'll get to taste the ham, cheese and bread that you buy. Afterwards, you will enter the kitchen to prepare a seasonal meal of traditional bruschetta, fresh homemade pasta and typical Tuscan main courses. You will also select the Chianti wine that best accompanies what you have prepared to eat. At the conclusion of this hands-on lesson, you will get to sit down and enjoy the delicious meal you have made! A "graduation certificate" will be presented to all participants in the class. Please note that the Central Market is closed on Sundays and bank holidays; a special introduction and extra tastings will be available during the cooking class.

Italy's Most Glorious Creations: Pizza & Gelato

Which are the most glorious Italian culinary creations? Pizza and gelato, of course! Join this learn-and-taste afternoon tour -- it's informative, it's entertaining and it finishes up with a delicious Tuscan dinner, complete with wine! You'll meet the group in downtown Florence and head to a typical pizzeria where a local pizza chef, called a "pizzaiolo," will teach you the art of making pizza from scratch. Every participant makes their own pizza, starting with the dough, then covering it with a light yet flavorful tomato sauce and finally popping it in the oven to bake. And when the pizza is cooked to perfection... of course, you'll get to taste it! After pizza comes dessert! Making gelato seems easy but there is so much to learn. The chef provides an extensive introduction on how to select the best available raw ingredients, how the natural colors develop, how gelato differs from traditional ice cream and much more. And sampling many different flavors of freshly-made gelato is half the fun! The tour concludes with dinner and a wine tasting, making it a great opportunity for the whole family to gain an insight into Italy's famed gastronomical culture in a fun and tasty way!

Learn to Cook a Florentine Meal

Step into the private kitchen of Francesca di Leonardo and learn to cook a traditional Florentine meal. Together you'll prepare a 4-course meal, using fresh, local ingredients, while Francesca shares with you her cooking secrets and special techniques. Finally, you'll enjoy the fruits of your labors, eating dinner around the kitchen table. This is a 'home-style' cooking class, which takes place in the private apartment of Francesca di Leonardo, located in Florence's San Frediano district. The class will last 3 hours, with the meal following.

Learn to Cook a Roman Meal

When in Rome.....cook as the Romans do! The Eternal City is famous for a variety of things -- the Colosseum, the Pope, its ancient ruins -- but one thing that many tourists tend to overlook is its centuries-old culinary tradition. What would Italian cuisine be without tasty Roman specialties like saltimbocca alla romana, spaghetti alla carbonara or Jewish style artichokes? This cooking class takes place in a culinary school in the Prati neighborhood of Rome, just a stone's throw from St. Peter's and the Vatican. In this private, hands-on cooking class you will learn how to make a traditional Roman meal using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This class not only teaches you how to prepare a complete menu of dishes, it also covers presentation and garnishing; handy tricks to enhance prepared dishes and lend confidence to the overall culinary experience. And after your class, you'll sit down to a gourmet feast you can be proud of -- buon appetito!

Learn to Cook a Tuscan Meal

The cooking class of Chef Emma Mantovani takes place in her farmhouse situated on a top of a hill, with a 360 degree view on the Val d'Elsa, only 10 miles from San Gimignano. During the cooking class you will have the opportunity to learn how to create wonderful Tuscan dishes, from antipasti to dessert; each recipe will be accompanied by Emma's Tuscan trade secrets. During the preparation, you'll also get to taste all the ingredients used such as fresh vegetables, pecorino cheese and Emma's homemade olive oil. At the end of the lesson, seated on a beautiful terrace overlooking the Tuscan countryside, you will enjoy the 4-course meal that you personally cooked. This is an unforgettable experience -- come discover the taste of Tuscany, deep in the heart of Chianti, where some of Italy's most famous wines are made.

Chianti Nord Wine Tour: Half Day

Produced in the undulating hills of the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Siena, the famous Chianti Classico wine is known and celebrated all over the world. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages and silvery-green olive trees are the scenic backdrop for this half day wine excursion to Chianti Country. Departing from and returning to your Florence hotel, first stop is the town of Greve in Chianti with its picturesque, asymmetrical main piazza. It is lined by a succession of palaces, porticoes and loggias with the rebuilt church of Santa Croce at one end, housing beautiful Renaissance paintings from the School of Fra Angelico. At the other end of the piazza stands a statue of the explorer, Giovanni da Verrazzano, who discovered New York Harbor. After a tour of Greve you'll head to the Casaloste Vineyards, known for their fine Chianti Classico and Riserva wines. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Then you'll visit the cellars of the Setriolo estate in Castellina in Chianti to learn how grapes become wine; a guided tasting follows.

Italian Wines: North to South

Keen to know more about Italian wines and the way they differ throughout Italy? Your sommelier will take you on a trip from north to south, discovering the best wines produced in three of the 20 Italian regions - not necessarily the most well known, but certainly of the highest quality. You will be introduced to limited production wines made by small wineries tucked away in Tuscany, Trentino Alto Adige and Sicily. These will be accompanied by various appetizers such as traditional bruschette and a selection of the best cured meats and cheeses of the area. This 45-minute wine tasting under the vaulted ceiling of the Enoteca Alessi wine bar is the perfect introduction to the wines of Italy, ideal for any wine-lover!

Chianti Classico - Group Guided Tour

Tidy rows of vineyards, silvery-green olive trees and the inky exclamation points of cypresses are the scenic backdrop for this shared, full day excursion to the Chianti area where one of the world's most famous wines is produced. A comfortable minivan will take you around the picturesque Tuscan countryside, making stops at two celebrated wineries along the way. Here, a knowledgeable sommelier will show you around the production facilities and the cellars where you will taste wines made from Sangiovese, Canaiolo and other varieties of purple grapes. You will learn how to distinguish the flavor and acidity of each wine and, based on its unique characteristics, how to best pair it with food. Some of the excellent olive oils produced in this region will also be sampled. Lunch will be at a lovely trattoria serving local Tuscan specialties. A short stop in a medieval Tuscan town ensures that this tour is a perfect blend of food, wine and culture.

Montepulciano Wine Tour: Full Day

This full day excursion is a celebration of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of Italy's most outstanding red wines made from a skillful blend of Prugnolo Gentile, Canaiolo Nero and Mammolo grapes. Departing from and returning to your Florence or Siena hotel, the first stop is the Boscarelli Vineyards, known for their fine Nobile wine. A visit to the cellars and a wine tasting is included. Next stop is Montepulciano - called "The Pearl of the 16th Century" - a jewel of the Renaissance period. Curving its way along a ridge, the town delights visitors with vino and views. After a short tour of Montepulciano, you'll visit the historic cellars of Contucci. This wine making family dates back 1,000 years and is one of the 'Fathers' of Vino Nobile. Lunch will be at Diva e Maceo, a lovely trattoria serving local Tuscan specialties. Afterwards you will head to the Poliziano estate for a guided wine tasting. Final stop of the day is Pienza. The town's main piazza was commissioned by native son Pope Pius II in 1459, and is the first example of Renaissance town planning in Italy. Pienza is also known for its excellent sheep's milk cheese (pecorino di Pienza).

At the Florentine Market

Take a trip back in time to discover the traditions of Florentine market shopping and cooking. Francesca di Leonardo will take you to the San Lorenzo market, introducing you to local produce and customs. Together you'll select the freshest ingredients before returning to Francesca's home to cook a traditional Tuscan meal. This culinary adventure allows you to learn about Italian culture in the most intimate setting -- dinner around the family table.This is a 'home-style' cooking class, which takes place in the private apartment of Francesca di Leonardo, located in Florence's San Frediano district.

Neapolitan Cooking: Fruits and Flavors of the Mediterranean Sun

A real Southern Italian family invites you into their stunning private villa in the center of Sorrento to share with you authentic recipes just like nonna used to make! Local dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), Sorrentine-style gnocchi, lemon chicken or eggplant parmesan - a scrumptious, multi-course meal of whatever is in season at that time of year. The setting couldn't be more special: the villa is surrounded by a gorgeous, manicured garden full of palms, colorful flowers, fountains, fragrant orange and lemon trees and a typical Pergolato with hand painted ceramic decorations. All the recipes are clearly demonstrated in a warm and relaxed atmosphere, and you'll take a break partway through the lesson for a visit to the wine cellar to taste the family's homemade wine, made from grapes grown right on the property. Then you'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labors in a delicious meal by the pool, under the Pergolato or indoors in front of the fireplace. This is an unforgettable experience that will be the highlight of your visit to Sorrento!

Discover Sorrento and Its Renowned Artisan Products

For centuries the spectacular beauty of Sorrento has attracted visitors from all over the world, who come to enjoy the magnificent views, welcoming people, and renowned artisan products. During this full day tour you will have the opportunity to experience elements of each, making it a perfect introduction to this picturesque town. After meeting at your hotel, the tour will lead you through the historical city center, including a visit to the Duomo, Sorrento's 11th century cathedral which houses some of the most celebrated frescoes painted by Neapolitan artists. You will then continue to explore the park of the Villa Comunale, situated on a cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, the tour will lead you to the charming fishing village of Marina Grande. From Marina Grande you will venture to a workshop in which Sorrento's typical inlaid woodwork products are handcrafted. Here, you will receive a personal demonstration and explanation of the woodworking process. After the demonstration, visitors will dine on a homemade lunch of regional dishes. The tour concludes with a visit to the producers of Villa Massa Limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur of the Amalfi Coast, where you will learn about how the product is made, as well as participate in a tasting.

Chianti Sud Wine Tour: Full Day

Produced in the undulating hills of the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Siena, the famous Chianti Classico wine is known and celebrated all over the world. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages and silvery-green olive trees are the scenic backdrop for this full day wine excursion to Chianti Country. Departing from and returning to your Siena hotel, first stop is the town of Radda in Chianti which has its preserved medieval urban design with all the streets of the tiny historic center leading to the main square, Piazza Ferrucci. After a walking tour of Radda you'll head to the Buondonno Vineyards, known for their fine Chianti Classico and Riserva wines. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Next stop will be lunch at the Osteria Le Panzanelle, a lovely place serving typical Tuscan cuisine. After lunch you will head either to the village of Vagliagli or to Castelnuovo Berardenga. Then you'll visit the cellars of the Monteraponi estate; a guided tasting follows.

Wine Tastings You Won't Forget

Select Italy is proud to offer a different selection of wine tastings at an establishment that has been recognized as one of the "best Italian eno-tables." In a spectacular and elegant setting, brought to perfection by a two-year renovation that uncovered original arches, marble columns and an ancient Roman wall from the Augustan era, our clients will enjoy a sophisticated wine tasting featuring some of the most superb Italian wines. The experience is enhanced by a selection of carefully chosen appetizers, made by master producers from only the freshest local ingredients. An occasion to remember, perfect for those who wish to spend a special evening in an historic setting with the possibility to stretch the pleasure into a fine dining experience at the Enoteca's excellent restaurant.

Gelato and Vino

It may sound like a strange combination, but gelato and wine are two of Florence's best-known creations, so why not explore them together? Your tasting begins with a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the famous gelateria, GROM, where owner Mario will introduce you to artisanal Italian ice cream, explaining the stages of its production and revealing the secrets of its success. It goes without saying, all the gelato is made solely from natural products and with top quality raw materials and the seasonal flavor-of-the-month is a true delight! The tour continues right across the street, under the vaulted ceilings of the historic wine bar Enoteca Alessi. Here, surrounded by glass cabinets of filled with fine grappas, whiskies and cognac, you'll embark on a tasting menu that includes two Tuscan red wines accompanied by various traditional appetizers. Finally, for dessert, three different flavors of GROM gelato sprinkled with a special balsamic cream will be served. This 45-minute tasting experience is a great way to learn about the food and wine of Florence, and is ideal for any level of foodie!

Archi-Wine Tour: When Architects Meet Winemakers in the Val d'Orcia (Full Day)

Design and wine are the themes of this full day excursion to Montepulciano where modern wineries conceived with a contemporary flair provide wine tasting opportunities that are sure to please wine enthusiasts with a passion for cutting edge art. Departing from and returning to your Florence or Siena hotel, first stop is Icario, a custom built winery designed by Valle Progettazione. Infused with contemporary art and creativity, both the furniture and interior design take inspiration from the earth's warm hues and the transparency of air. An eclectic mix of color and light characterizes the winery's fascinating contemporary art project, Icario Arte, separated from the wine cellars by an unexpected and ethereal glass floor. After viewing the art installations and learning about the vinification process, a wine tasting will be enjoyed. Next up is a guided visit to the heart of Montepulciano, a hill town that is home to a number of well-preserved Renaissance palaces, many of which have been adapted to showcase the town's noble red wine. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines are DOCG-approved and, therefore, meet the highest Italian standards. Most local wineries are family run so the connection between wine and territory is deeply felt. Lunch takes place at the Trattoria Diva e Maceo where Tuscan specialties are served with excellent local wines. Afterwards is a visit to the pristine High Renaissance masterpiece that is the Tempio di San Biagio, designed in 1518 by the celebrated Italian architect Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. The Tenimenti d'Alessandro winery has garnered tremendous praise for its fine wines, particularly the notable Il Bosco. Situated in the village of Manzano near Cortona, the winery visit includes a guided wine tasting and a private viewing of the art collection at Borgo Syrah, an ongoing project in which contemporary art is installed outdoors among the vines.

Archi-Wine Tour: When Architects Meet Winemakers in Umbria (Full Day)

Whether you love red, white or dessert wine, this tour is for you. Montefalco is a majestic hill town in the central part of the province of Perugia, often referred to as the "balcony of Umbria," and home of Sagrantino di Montefalco, one of Italy's most prestigious DOCG wines. This tour departs from Perugia or Assisi and ensures a complete wine-tasting experience, along with a visit to an absolutely unique wine cellar designed by Arnaldo Pomodoro, Italy's greatest contemporary sculptor. Architecture and sculpture unite in Carapace, Pomodoro's fantastic copper and wood structure whose curved outline is visible from miles away. It is the centerpiece of the Tenuta di Castelbuono winery and was inspired by the natural armor of a turtle's hard shell. Carapace harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding landscape of rolling hills and organic vineyards planted with sagrantino and sangiovese grapes. Inside is a copper-sheathed tasting room where you'll get to sample the estate's fine wines. Next comes a visit to the charming town of Montefalco, followed by lunch at Enoteca L'Alchimista. This lively restaurant in the center of the town is well known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. A guided tour of the medieval village of Castel Ritaldi follows a lunch of Umbrian specialties. Located at the foot of the Martani Hills on the road to Spoleto, the village contains several interesting churches, in addition to the castle after which it is named. Final stop is Tenuta di Scacciadiavoli, founded by Prince Ugo Boncompagni-Ludovisi in 1884. This winery is one of Montefalco's oldest and boasts 20 hectares of vineyards, 11 of which are reserved for Sagrantino di Montefalco, six for Montefalco Rosso and three for Grechetto vines.

Cooking Up a Perfect Sienese Meal

If you dream of spending your morning learning how to cook a traditional Tuscan meal, this hands-on experience can help you fulfill that dream and come away with beautiful memories. Chef Lella's cooking class takes place in her culinary school located in the heart of Siena, just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. Siena's cuisine is known to be simple yet flavorful, and is distinguished by the excellence of the ingredients. During this half-day cooking class, Chef Lella and her assistant, Jackie, will teach you how to prepare a typical Sienese menu from antipasti to dessert, including a dish of fresh, handmade pasta in a sauce that varies with the season. At the conclusion of this hands-on lesson, you will get to sit down and enjoy the delicious meal you have personally prepared, accompanied by a glass of excellent Tuscan wine. Participants will receive a booklet with the recipes in English so you can repeat this wonderful experience in your own home kitchen.

Chianti Sud Wine Tour: Half Day

Produced in the undulating hills of the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Siena, the famous Chianti Classico wine is known and celebrated all over the world. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages and silvery-green olive trees are the scenic backdrop for this half day wine excursion to Chianti Country. Departing from and returning to your Siena hotel, first stop is the town of Radda in Chianti which has its preserved medieval urban design with all the streets of the tiny historic center leading to the main square, Piazza Ferrucci. After a walking tour of Radda, you'll head to the Buondonno Vineyards, known for their fine Chianti Classico and Riserva wines. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Then, if you choose the morning departure, the last stop will be lunch at the Osteria Le Panzanelle, a lovely place serving typical Tuscan cuisine. If you choose the afternoon departure, you'll do a short walk through the village of Vagliagli and then head to the Monteraponi Vineyards in Radda in Chianti; a guided tasting follows.

Ham & Cheese: Parma for Foodies

Are you a foodie? Does the sight of rosy-pink prosciutto make your mouth water? Does Parmigiano-Reggiano increase your heartbeat? Does sweet, thick balsamic vinegar occupy a position of honor in your personal culinary Pantheon? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then this is the tour for you! Your day will begin early at a caseificio where Parmigiano-Reggiano, the "King of Cheeses," is produced. You'll watch as master artisans create what is truly one of the most delicious foods in the world. After a short stop in the medieval village of Torrechiara, dominated by a romantic, fairytale castle, you will drive into the hills surrounding Parma to visit a producer of Prosciutto di Parma. Traditionally sliced thin to the point of near-transparency, this succulent delight melts in your mouth -- you will learn just how it is made and cured to perfection. Then the wine cellar of a local vineyard situated in the scenic, rolling hills of DOC "Colli di Parma" wine country will open its doors to you. Following the cellar tour, comes an abundant lunch of typical foods and wines in the winery's beautiful tasting room. For those booking the Full Day Option, after lunch you will continue on to the province of Modena to visit an acetaia where balsamic vinegar is produced. The owner himself will demonstrate how the humble grape is transformed into a powerful, flavorful and magnificent product, and there will be a tasting session at the end of the tour. This tour can be booked with transportation or without. In the dropdown below, choose the option that is best for you.

The Slow Life I: Food, Wine and Nature in Umbria

As Italy's only peninsular landlocked region, Umbria already sets itself apart from its neighbors, but it is the incredible scenery, rich cuisine, and historical significance of towns such as Assisi and Perugia that makes this small region truly outstanding. This tour combines sport, food, and wine to introduce you to the beauty of the Umbrian landscape, as well as give you a taste of the daily life of its people. Your morning begins with a 45-minute horseback ride through the Terre Margaritelli winery in Torgiano, just 10 miles from Perugia. No experience is necessary to enjoy this relaxing excursion through the gentle hills and terraced vineyards of the Umbrian countryside. Immediately after the horseback ride, you will tour the winery itself. Typical Umbrian wines such as Malot, Mirantico, Costellato, Pietramala, and Roccascossa are produced here, and the tour culminates with a wine tasting. Afterwards you'll head to the kitchen where a hands-on cooking class accentuating the traditional dishes of the region will take place. A delicious lunch of the dishes that you and your instructor prepared together follows.

Cucina di Parma

Embark on a culinary odyssey in the city of gourmands - Parma. Start your adventure with a visit to a factory where they make Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese following the traditional methods. You'll see how the world's most popular cheese is made and sample the results. After your tour, you'll learn to use Parmigiano in the correct way in Chef Micaela's home kitchen. Micaela will teach you how to make a 3-course meal of local favorites like tortelli d'erbetta, traditional Parma-style ravioli stuffed with field greens and ricotta and served with sage butter and, of course, Parmesan cheese. Then you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labors seated around her kitchen table - the perfect way to experience the heartland of Italy!

Montecarlo and the Villas of Lucca

For centuries, the people of Montecarlo and the beautiful surrounding villages have carefully worked the fertile, green land of Tuscany. It is thanks to the efforts of these tireless "keepers of the land" that the beauty of Mother Nature has been so immaculately preserved here. Meet the people, tour the castles and villas and try some of the region's most exquisite provincial wines on this Tuscan half-day or full-day wine safari. Choose the option that is best for you. First stop on the tour will be the picture-perfect medieval village of Montecarlo. It is incredibly well preserved and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside from its hilltop castle. After a tour of this historic landmark, you'll visit one of the most respected and renowned wineries of Montecarlo, La Fattoria Michi, for a wine tasting. Their incredible wines are mainly attributable to a fusion of French and Italian winemaking techniques that results in unique, vibrant flavors. Trattoria Da Leo, a characteristic locale in the heart of Lucca with eccentric, one-of-a-kind service, is a great lunch stop. After lunch your guide will show you this gorgeous, medieval city and you'll take a walk on top of the city's incredibly well preserved walls. These tree-lined walls are so wide that they have been converted into a jogging path and park overlooking the city center. Final stop on the tour is the formal Italian garden of the Fattoria Villa Maionchi, followed by yet another wine tasting featuring a variety of the estate's superb wines.

Veni, vidi...gustavi - a Spirited Wine Tasting

Salumeria Roscioli deli' boasts 450 different kinds of cheeses, more than 100 different kinds of cured meats, a wine list of some 2,200 labels, 20 different types of homemade bread and a professional team of sommeliers and chefs that are eager to introduce you to Italy's best food and wine. Choose from three different wine & food experiences, to be held in their private tasting room and wine cellar, the recently opened Rimessa Roscioli. Here, in sight of a perfectly working antique Berkel meat slicer from 1955, you'll find all you need for an unforgettable gourmet wine tasting!

Brunello di Montalcino Wine Tour: Full Day

Noble and seductive, Brunello di Montalcino is a grand red wine that is born in the heart of the hills around Siena. It is the work of one man, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi, whose patient efforts first brought this wine to light in 1888. Celebrate his invention on this full day wine excursion to Brunello country. Departing from and returning to your Florence or Siena hotel, first stop is the Altesino Vineyards. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting of their fine Brunello is included. This is followed by a walking tour of the village of Montalcino. Here you'll be captivated by picturesque, narrow streets surmounted by the medieval fortress, La Rocca. Lunch at the Taverna Grappolo Blu in Montalcino will introduce you to authentic local dishes like the thick, hand rolled spaghetti called pici. After a delicious lunch you'll head to the 12th century Abbey of Sant'Antimo. In a serene setting of rolling hills blanketed in olive groves and vineyards, the Augustinian friars maintain the ancient tradition of Gregorian Chant. Afterwards you'll visit the cellars of the Poggio Antico estate; a guided tasting follows.

Parmigiano, Culatello and... Cooking!

Parma is the undisputed capital city of the Italian Food Valley, and this tour gives participants the chance to learn about the local gastronomy by visiting selected producers to taste their wares. A hands-on cooking class in a Michelin-starred kitchen follows where you'll learn the secrets to making the region's traditional pastas. The day starts out with Parmigiano-Reggiano, the regal "King of Cheeses." Smell the milk, feel the steam and tap the enormous wheels of cheese! A tasting session follows the tour of the production facilities. Afterwards you'll be welcomed at the Antica Corte Pallavicina, a medieval estate that hides in its 12th century aging cellars more that 5,000 Culatello di Zibello hams, the world's most precious cold cut. Who are some of the famous clients who have discovered this amazing product? Prince Charles of England, Prince Albert of Monaco, and Giorgio Armani, to name just three. You'll visit of this intriguing labyrinth of flavors and then participate in a hands-on cooking lesson focused on pasta: a real full immersion in how to make anolini, tortelli, ravioli, tagliolini, tagliatelle, stringoni, and pasta rasa by hand. Lunch with the food you have personally cooked, together with a selection of the cured meats produced on the farm, will follow the class. This tour can be booked with transportation or without. In the dropdown below, choose the option that is best for you.

Winery Visit & Guided Visit of Siena and San Gimignano

Departing from and returning to Florence, this full day excursion begins with a visit to the picturesque village of San Gimignano, famous for the 13th century towers that stand as a testament to its medieval prosperity and the wealth of its merchants. After a tour of San Gimignano you'll head to the Setriolo estate in Castellina in Chianti, known for their fine Chianti Classico and Riserva wines. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Next stop will be lunch at the Osteria di Lornano, a lovely place serving typical Tuscan cuisine. Afterwards, you will drive through the gorgeous Tuscan countryside to Siena. In this cradle of the Italian Gothic style, your expert, private guide will introduce you to the artistic marvels of the historic center. See the spectacular Duomo and baptistery, both of which beautifully symbolize the devout religious nature of the Sienese. The city's heart is the gracious, shell-shaped main piazza, or Campo, site of the celebrated Palio - this thrilling horserace is run twice each summer, on July 2nd and August 16th. Looming over it is the Palazzo Pubblico (City Hall), a crenellated, medieval building that represents the independence and economic might of the Sienese oligarchy. Time permitting, the driver will take a slight detour to Monteriggioni, a tiny village surrounded by high walls and 14 square towers. It is one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in existence.

Classic Tuscan Red Wines

This wine tasting takes place under the vaulted ceiling of the Enoteca Alessi wine bar, surrounded by glass cabinets filled with fine grappas, whiskies and cognac. Your sommelier will take you through Tuscany's best flavors in this fascinating tour entirely dedicated to Tuscan wines and delicacies. You will have the chance to taste three of the best red wines in the world: Chianti Classico Riserva, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino, accompanied by traditional bruschette and a selection of the best cured meats and cheeses of the area. Finish with a glass of historic Vin Santo; this sublime sweet dessert wine is enjoyed along with cantuccini - typical, hard almond biscuits that come from the nearby city of Prato.

Archi-Wine Tour: When Architects Meet Winemakers in Tuscany (Full Day)

Contemporary architecture generally seeks to dissociate itself from the world of emotions in order to create a rational relationship between building and man, devoid of all emotion. In some places, though, the synergy between architecture and its surroundings has been recreated. This is the case at two unique Tuscan wineries where indigenous style and age-old traditions have embraced modern designs and technologies. Departing from and returning to your hotel in Florence, first stop is La Rocca di Frassinello winery where a joint venture between Italian and French wine producers hired world-famous superstar architect Renzo Piano to design their new winemaking facility and cellars. The result is breathtaking, combining traditional forms of Tuscan architecture with an industrial theme that features steel-mesh shades, a terracotta piazza and a tall spire concealing heliostats that reflect daylight into the interior. The underground cellar resembles an amphitheater lined with 2,500 barrels of wine; here a guided tasting of the estate's finest vintages will be held. The park of the Villa Guerrazzi in Cecina is the leafy setting for an al fresco lunch at the Osteria Enoteca la Cinquantina. Traditional Tuscan dishes using local fish and seafood are accompanied by an exclusive selection of wines. After lunch, enjoy a short walk on the beach. Petra in Suvereto is a state-of-the-art winery designed by renowned Italian architect Mario Botta in 2000. An oblique, cylindrical structure of golden-hued stone divided in two by a steeply rising exterior staircase, this magnificent building is as bold as the Super-Tuscans you will sample in the guided wine tasting.

A Day in Mamma Agata' s Kitchen (Shared Cooking Class)

Mamma Agata's cooking class takes place in her private home situated high on a cliff top, 1,000 feet above sea level. Her gracious home majestically overlooks the Amalfi Coast, with wonderful terraces and a spacious garden full of lemon trees, fruit trees, flowers, vegetables and poultry. Mamma Agata has been the chef for many major Hollywood actors and actresses, including Elizabeth Taylor, Humphrey Bogart and Fred Astaire. During the cooking class you will have the opportunity to learn how to create wonderful Mediterranean dishes, from antipasti to dessert; each recipe will be accompanied by Mamma Agata's personal and very entertaining anecdotes. During the preparation, you'll also get to taste all the ingredients used such as sundried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil and Gennaro's home made wine. Mamma Agata's daughter, Chiara and her husband Gennaro will assist you during the cooking class. They share Mamma's love and passion for cooking and will make you feel truly welcome in their stunning Italian home. At the end of the lesson lunch will be served on the beautiful terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea where you'll dine the dishes that you cooked. This is an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful spots in the world, and is a must for anyone interested in Italian culture and cuisine.

Pasta Fiorentina

Master the iconic art of pasta making! Francesca di Leonardo will work with you to create a challenging pasta dish and two sauces. Roll up your sleeves and test your cooking skills on stuffed pasta (ravioli or tortellini) OR lasagne OR gnocchi OR tagliatelle. Learn to make pasta as the Italians do - making the dough, pressing and cutting out pasta shapes, creating a filling and then whipping up two different sauces to serve with it. The best part comes when you sit down and taste the delicious dish that you have prepared! For a sweet finish, the meal concludes with a traditional Tuscan dessert of almond biscotti and Vin Santo. This is a "home-style" cooking class, which takes place in the private apartment of Francesca di Leonardo, located in Florence's San Frediano district. This class focuses on the hands-on preparation of ONE type of fresh pasta, based on your preference or on what Francesca suggests. It is only available for small groups and is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

Florentine Masters: Art & Wine

Famous for its abundance of art, history, charming vistas and sophisticated wines, Florence does seem to have the best of all worlds! With only a day to spare, see what this intriguing city has to offer on a guided tour that will give you a glimpse of Florentine cultural wealth and a taste of the best Tuscan wines. The visit starts in the heart of the Roman city (now Piazza della Repubblica); walking through medieval streets, you will pass many still visible, fortified family towers. Then comes the small oratory of San Martino dei Buonomini whose interior is covered with Renaissance frescoes and is surrounded by houses that once belonged to Dante. Piazza della Signoria is next -- it is dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio and adorned with a copy of Michelangelo's "David" in its original location. More statues in marble and bronze are displayed in the Loggia dei Lanzi. After passing the remains of the ancient Roman Amphitheater in the neighborhood where the young Michelangelo once lived, the stroll ends in the Franciscan Basilica of Santa Croce. Famous men such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Rossini are buried here, amidst impressive frescoes and sculptures. After the historical part of the tour, you will head over to the Enoteca Alessi. This wine bar is one of the oldest in Florence and occupies the site of two Jewish oratories that were built right outside the Ghetto. Under vaulted ceilings you will taste three of the best red wines in the world: Chianti Classico Riserva, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino, accompanied by traditional bruschetthe and a selection of cured meats and cheeses from the region. A glass of Vin Santo - a sublime sweet dessert wine - along with the typical, hard, almond biscuits called cantuccini will provide a sweet finish to your tour.

Tuscan Cooking: Fruits and Flavors of Chianti Country

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, travel to the Badia a Coltibuono, an evocative 11th century abbey in the heart of Tuscany that is also the cooking school of famed cookbook writer, Lorenza de Medici. In this hands-on lesson you will prepare a traditional Tuscan meal with the Badia's Florentine chef, Andrea Gagnesi, and taste world-class wines and olive oils produced on the estate. Chef Gagnesi will guide you through the preparation of a full four-course regional meal, starting with antipasti and ending with dessert. Enjoy the delicious dishes you just made in the beautiful private dining room while sampling their very own wines. After lunch, you will relax in the living room where coffee and grappa will be served. The three-hour lesson is preceded by a guided tour of the property, providing a chance to immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle and hospitality of a 1,000 year old abbey while savoring the authentic tastes and sights that this remarkable region has to offer. Badia a Coltibuono is sure to be the highlight of your trip to Italy!

Seize the Day

With its neat rows of vineyards, cypresses and silvery-green olive trees, Tuscany is famously photogenic. What better way to experience the celebrated landscapes of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region than on this full-day excursion combining photography and wine? Alongside Michele Pero, acclaimed photo reporter and founder of The Darkroom at the Centro Italiano Firenze, you will learn how to use your own personal camera to the best of its ability, guided by the tips and tricks of a professional photographer. You will spend a fulfilling day walking around the wineries, ancient abbeys and castles of the Chianti area. Locations have been carefully selected for their great beauty, but also for their suitability to inspiring the artist in you and to testing the potential of your camera. This is a wonderful opportunity that combines beautiful sights, excellent wines and a lasting lesson in photography - at the end of the day, you'll find yourself with unforgettable memories and a newly acquired expertise that will stay with you for the rest of your life!

Olive Trees in A Tuscan Landscape

Renowned for its picturesque landscape, punctuated by dark, green cypresses and silvery-green olive trees, Tuscany produces one of the finest olive oils in Italy. This tour will take you to the heart of the Tuscan oil kingdom, where the olives are still picked by hand from ancient olive trees. Departing from and returning to your Florence hotel, first stop is Impruneta, a small country town known for its production of terracotta. Here you will admire the large main square; at one end is the church of the Collegiata, containing beautiful works in enameled terracotta by the Renaissance master, Luca della Robbia. A visit to nearby factory will introduce you to the ancient art of making terracotta. Afterwards you'll drive through vineyards and olive orchards to the Fattoria Torrerossa. They produce fine, extra-virgin olive oil that is still stored in enormous, antique terracotta jars. The estate's olive groves extend for about 50 acres, and local varieties such as Frantoio, Moraiolo, Pendolino and Leccino can be found among its 4,000 trees. A visit to the oil cellar with its old oil press and a guided oil tasting is included. Then you'll stop for lunch at Osteria Antica Sosta in Impruneta; here you can taste real Tuscan home-cooking, accompanied by a large assortment of wines. Final stop of the day is Fattoria La Querce where a guided tour will introduce you to the estate's award-winning wines and olive oils.

Pasta Romana

Pasta was most probably introduced to Italy during the Arab conquest of Sicily during the Middle Ages, but it was the Italians themselves who added the sauce. Today there are hundreds of shapes to choose from, each with its own special name, texture and mouth feel: straight or curvy, hollow or solid, the decision of which pasta shape to use depends on the kind of sauce that will be served with it. The secrets of making fresh pasta from scratch will be revealed in our hands-on cooking class, held at a culinary school in the Prati neighborhood of Rome. Under the expert guidance of our English-speaking chef, you will put on a bright orange apron and learn the traditional techniques for pressing and cutting pasta. Two pasta dishes will be prepared from start to finish, along with homemade sauces to suit each pasta shape. Then comes the best part - you get to sit down and taste the delicious dishes that you have prepared!

Pizza Romana

Italy's most widely known dish is none other than pizza. Why, you ask? Because it's fast, it's flavorful, it's fresh, it's fragrant and it's fantastic! Pizza may be common in the US, but it's nothing like what you'll find in Rome! Pizza, as we know it, was invented in Naples in 1889 to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy. A local chef created the still famous "Pizza Margherita," garnished with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and basil to represent the colors of the Italian flag. Today traditional Italian pizza can be found all over Italy, but Romans have their own special way of preparing it. At this culinary school in the Prati neighborhood of Rome, you'll put on a bright orange apron and learn how to make genuine pizza alla Romana -- a thin-crusted, hand-tossed pizza that is all crunchy goodness. You'll make a variety of pizzas with traditional Roman toppings and, with the help of our chef, you will create a pizza buffet for lunch. When you leave Rome, you'll be taking home a new skill that will wow your friends!

At the Roman Market

One of the most accurate stereotypes about Italy is that the "Italians don't eat to live, they live to eat!" And Romans eat (and cook) with a special brio that is also expressed in the city's vibrant and colorful markets. This half-day lesson combines a market visit with the hands-on preparation of an authentic, multi-course Roman meal. You will meet Valeria, a native Roman, at her cooking school in the Prati neighborhood of Rome and accompany her to an eclectic Roman market. She'll show you how to navigate the market stalls without getting flustered, how to purchase just what you need and how to use these same ingredients to prepare tasty and characteristic dishes. Then you'll return to the cooking school to prepare and enjoy a traditional Roman meal, using the fresh ingredients you found at the market. You will learn the secrets of Italian cuisine while having fun with people that share your passion for food. And you'll realize that you have paid not only for an excellent class, but also for an exquisite meal!

Sassicaia and the Coastal Wines Tour: Full Day

Wine connoisseurs will certainly be familiar with the name, Sassicaia. This wine's ultra-famous status comes from the fact that it is one of the world's most expensive and precious wines; so famous that it even has a car dedicated to it, the FIAT 500 by Aznom. Sassiccaia's superb quality is due to the labors of Marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta who painstakingly planted French Cabernet grapes along the Tuscan coast and reaped the benefits of this non-indigenous grape's superior flavor. On the Sassicaia and the Coastal Wines tour, you will taste this incredible Cabernet and indulge in its exquisite flavor, following an extensive guided tour of the winery grounds and wine cellar. You'll also get to sample the marvelous extra-virgin olive oil that is produced in the same region, whose unmistakable aroma permeates the hills of Tuscany. Enoteca Tognoni, a rustic locale situated in the heart of the tiny village of Bolgheri, is the perfect place for an abundant Tuscan lunch. Last stop of the day is one of the wineries where Sassiccaia was first produced. Here you'll enjoy a final wine tasting and learn to differentiate between the various ages and flavors of the local wines.

Barolo Tour: 'King of Wines, Wine of Kings'

The rolling hills of the Langhe region set the scene for this full-day guided tour that shines the spotlight on the noble Barolo, known as the 'King of Wines and Wine of Kings.' In the past 15 years or so, Barolo has really come into its own. Recent harvests have produced astounding vintages, the fruits of which are currently being enjoyed by wine drinkers worldwide. Starting from and returning to your hotel in the Langhe area, this tour begins in Grinzane Cavour where you'll visit the impressive 13th century castle that houses the Enoteca Regionale and an ethnographic museum. The castle has historic ties to both the production of Barolo and to the unification of Italy. Your next stop will be the little village of Barolo where you'll visit the historic cellars of a renowned Barolo producer. A wine tasting will follow. After a short walk to the Falletti di Barolo castle, erected in the 10th century, you'll visit another winery. The tour gets to the village of La Morra right around lunchtime and your guide will be happy to suggest a local osteria where you can sample some traditional Piedmontese specialties. A last winery visit and tasting follows to help broaden your appreciation of the subtleties of Barolos from different producers and of different years of production. Your final stop for the day is Alba, world famous for its association with tartufi bianchi (white truffles). Here you'll have a guided tour of Alba's historic center with ample time for shopping along the Via Maestra.

Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tasting

This Venetian-style pub crawl provides excellent insight into the "real" Venice, far from the crowds in Piazza San Marco. You will get a glimpse of the daily life of the city's 60,000 full-time inhabitants as you follow Cecilia, your friendly and knowledgeable guide, on an off-the-beaten-track tour of some local hideaways that, as a tourist, you might not find on your own. The objective is to munch on some really delectable bar snacks - the Venetians call them cicchetti - with little glasses of wine known as ombre. Campo della Maddalena, a small square of colorful houses unchanged since medieval times, is the starting point for this three-hour shared tour. Many of these modest houses are topped with unusual chimneys and the first historic bacaro (wine bar) you will visit used to be a warehouse for storing coal. Amidst old iron tools, dark wooden beams and barrels of wine you will taste bruschetta (small slices of toasted bread) topped with mouthwatering ingredients that change every day, depending on the season: baccala' mantecato (creamy cod fish), soft cheeses and sweet pumpkin, to name just a few. Around the corner in the Strada Nuova is Alla Vedova (the widow's place) that has been feeding hungry Venetians since the 18th century. It is justly famous for its polpette (spicy fried meatballs), which are delicious when washed down with a glass of Merlot or Pinot Bianco. Then you will head to Campo Santa Sofia. (scroll down to read more...) After a stroll through the outdoor market, you will enter a hole-in-the-wall place that serves a simple but tasty selection of cicchetti accompanied by regional Italian wines and Prosecco. Stop by a couple of other bacari where the market vendors go - you will visit five in all - and then, on the steps of the Rialto Bridge, say arrivederci to the new-found friends with whom you have shared an unforgettable gastronomic tour of Venice's hidden corners. Please note that this is a sample itinerary and the actual tour might vary.

Learn to Cook a Venetian Meal

Chef Maria Genovina's cooking class takes place in her cheerful home kitchen, located in the heart of Venice near the Grand Canal. During this lesson, you will learn the secrets of Venetian cuisine, as well as discover the regional products that make it one of the most prized methods of cooking in Italian cuisine. Chef Maria will teach you how to prepare a delicious four-course meal using fresh, local ingredients. You will learn such skills how to make a perfect risotto or spaghetti allo scoglio. Other kitchen skills will be introduced, such as the best way to filet a sea bass and to prepare a tasty dessert. At the conclusion of this hands-on lesson, you will sit down and enjoy the meal you have personally prepared. At the end of the course, participants will receive a booklet with the recipes in English so that you can repeat this wonderful experience in your own home kitchen.

A Small Group Cooking Class in Venice

A powerful world trading empire is not the only amazing thing the Venetians have to brag about - their fresh and delectable cuisine is an accomplishment of its own! In this shared cooking class, participants will get a hands-on experience during which they will create and enjoy their very own Venetian-style meal. During this course you and other participants will join Chef Maria Genovina in a private apartment near the Grand Canal to create typical Venetian dishes from the fresh and seasonal ingredients that are the hallmarks of the Italian cuisine. The menu is rooted in the foundational principles of this type of cooking: simplicity, tradition, regionalism, and absolute freshness. After cooking dishes such as Fried Zucchini Flowers with Mozzarella and Basil, Baked Sea Bass with Potatoes, and traditional Tiramisu (the dessert was actually invented in this area), you will sit down and enjoy your meal.

Chocolate, Wine, and Cheese of Piedmont - Full Day Wine Excursion

Savor the most sought after delights of Piedmont in this full-day tour that takes you into the heart of the Barolo wine region. Discover the tastes of this territory by sampling and purchasing some of the best flavors in wines, cheeses and chocolates. Departing from your your hotel in the Langhe area, your first stop will be the town of Cherasco that combines snail farming and fine chocolate production in a historic setting. Here you will visit a traditional chocolate producer and sample a variety of chocolates, including the renowned baci di Cherasco. Next stop is Bra, home of the cheese that bears the town's name and birthplace of the influential Slow Food movement. Visit a cheese-producing farm that dates back to the early 1900's and enjoy a guided tasting of a variety of their cheeses. Castello di Grinzane Cavour or Falletti Castle will follow. Completely dominating a tiny village in the heart of the Langhe wine region, this imposing 13th century castle is home to the official regional wine shop and a brand-new wine museum. A sweeping, panoramic view of the Langhe and the Alps can be enjoyed from the castle?s ramparts. You?ll have time to shop or to have lunch in a local restaurant where you feast on traditional Piedmontese specialties (lunch not included in tour price). Final stop of this gourmet day will be one of the 11 picturesque Barolo villages where you'll visit the historic cellars of a renowned producer of Barolo wine with a tasting of various vintages to follow.

One Grape, Four Flavors

Ever wonder how two wines can taste so differently when they are made with the exact same type of grape? In the company of your own personal wine guide, you'll explore Sangiovese grapes, the king of Tuscan grapes, and four wines made from them. Accompanied by a platter of antipasti, you'll learn to compare and contrast varietals of this amazing grape and end your evening with a newly trained palate and a taste for the good life. This 2-hour private tasting is ideal for the curious traveler or the serious wine enthusiast.

De-Wine: Wines of the Castelli Romani, summer residence of the Popes

Frascati DOC wine is produced in the green hills around Rome in a picturesque area of castles and lakes known as the Castelli Romani . The territory is at the foot of Mount Tuscolo, where ancient Tusculum once stood, and where the town of Frascati now lies. Departing from and returning to your hotel in Rome, this tour starts with a guided visit to the Azienda Agricola Casale Marchese in Frascati. The estate, first mentioned by Pope Boniface VIII in 1301, is dedicated mainly to specific grape cultivars like Malvasia del Lazio, Cesanese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon . Situated in the heart of the Frascati DOC zone, its 125 acres overlook one of the most charming landscapes of the Tuscolo hills, where the vineyards are interspersed with ancient olive groves. During the guided visit, you will have the opportunity to try a wide range of wines while seated on the panoramic terrace with a spectacular view that stretches all the way to Rome. Afterwards, you'll ahead to Frascati for a short guided tour of this town, one of the most important historical and cultural centers in Latium. Lunch at Osteria Zaraza' , a typical Italian trattoria serving local specialties, follows. The last stop will be at the Azienda Agricola Centioni outside Grottaferrata where you'll have a guided tour of the cellars and a wine tasting. This winery has a beautiful garden with a gazebo from which you can enjoy the sweeping view that stretches from Rome to the Mediterranean Sea.

From Farm to Table: Sicilian Cuisine on the Regaleali Estate

About halfway between Palermo, on the north coast of Sicily, and Agrigento, on the south, lies one of the island's premier wineries and cooking schools - Regaleali, which has been in the family of Count Lucio Tasca since 1830. The almost 3,000 acre Regaleali estate and its cooking school draws culinary professionals from around the world and is practically self sufficient, producing most of the vegetables, fruits, wheat, olives, cheeses and meats used in the classes. In the charming country kitchen of Le Case Vecchie, immersed in the vineyards, you will learn to make authentic Sicilian dishes under the expert guidance of Fabrizia Tasca Lanza, an art and food historian who is the daughter of acclaimed cookbook writer, Anna Tasca Lanza. The two-hour cooking class will be followed by a meal with the food you have personally prepared, paired with some of the exquisite wines produced on the estate. To conclude this unique experience, you'll visit a dairy farm to taste freshly made pecorino, ricotta and primo sale ewe's milk cheeses.

Cucina Siciliana

Not everyone has a Sicilian grandmother... but that doesn't mean you can't learn to cook like one! Well-known cookbook writer Eleonora Consoli invites you into her spacious home kitchen to learn how to cook the Sicilian way, infusing every dish with the essence of the sun and sea. Her typical Sicilian home, dating from the 18th century, is situated in one of the most characteristic villages on the slopes of Mount Etna. Each lesson comprises a complete, 4-course menu and you may choose to actively participate to knead handmade pasta dough, form meatballs, and control sauce consistency. As you cook together, Eleonora shares personal anecdotes and stories of the Sicilian culture and it age-old traditions, habits and culinary customs. Afterwards you will sit down and enjoy a scrumptious meal of which you can be proud!

Women in a Man's World: Tuscan Wine Tasting

Don't tell Donatella Cinelli Colombini that women are the "weaker sex"! Her Casato delle Prime Donne winery in the gorgeous, UNESCO-protected landscape of the Val d'Orcia right outside Montalcino is unique in Italy - all of the wine makers are women and the Brunello they produce has won many awards. You will taste this very special wine and learn how it is made in this fascinating guided tour of the newest fermentation facility at the "House of First Women" estate. Three different types of wine, one of which is a prized Brunello, are yours to sample and savor, followed by a delicious light lunch consisting of Tuscan salami, aged pecorino, and bruschette with three types of extra-virgin olive oil produced at their sister estate, Fattoria del Colle in Trequanda. To finish off this unique and woman-empowering experience, you are welcome to take a leisurely stroll down a path through the vineyards; here, each rest stop is enhanced by modern art and the sayings of past winners of the annual Casato Prime Donne Award.

Wine & Truffles : Full Day Wine Excursion

This full-day culinary expedition will introduce you to the wonderful world of truffles and will give you a taste of two of Italy's most festive wines. No gourmet morsel is as exotic and luxurious as the white truffle - il tartufo bianco. These delicacies, which can cost thousands of dollars per pound, grow only in the wild and can only be found by expert foragers aided by highly trained dogs. Starting from and returning to your hotel in the Langhe area, this tour will take you to the heart of the truffle's earthy home, in the hills of the Monferrato region. At the "House of the Truffle Hunter", a trifulau will explain the area's food traditions and local truffle varieties. Armed with this knowledge, you'll head out with your guide and his two inseparable dogs, Diana and Birba, on your very own truffle hunt. A tasting of various truffles, local wines, cheese and salami will follow. Asti, with its beautiful Gothic cathedral, will be up next. You'll have free time to explore this historic, medieval city, do some shopping and have lunch in a restaurant in the city center. Afterwards you'll visit a renowned Barbera producer. This fine violet-colored red wine, is considered to be one of the great "B"s of Piedmont, along with Barolo and Barbaresco. A tour of a local winery and a wine tasting concludes the day.

Taste of Northern Italy: Food & Wine in Valpolicella

Discover the beauty and the flavors found in the Valpolicella wine country of the Veneto region on this full day guided tour. You'll take the most scenic backroads to two different wineries and to a characteristic restaurant and, along the way, your tour guide will illuminate all the special features of this beautiful region. Sample regional cuisine and learn just how these wineries produce world-class wines with subtle yet significant differences. Meander through the rolling hills of the Veneto to reach the first vineyard, Novaia. You will tour the estate's tree-shaded grounds and learn about the conditions needed to produce the grapes used in their special wines. A wine tasting with the experts will follow. Lunch at Ristorante Al Covolo comes next. Specializing in homemade pastas and sweets, as well as meats slow-cooked in wine, Al Covolo is a fine example of the local traditions prevalent in the Valpolicella region. They also have an extensive enoteca with a large variety of wines for sale. A pleasant drive through the undulating hills takes you to the second vineyard, Azienda Agricola Coal. Here you will gain a deeper understanding of the subtle differences in production techniques that give these wines their unique flavors. Enjoy a full wine tasting, as well as a tour of the grounds. Final stop of the day will be the 13th century church of San Giorgio; then it's back to Venice after a fun-filled day of touring and tasting the finest wines and foods of the Vapolicella region.

Orto, the Island Wine of San Erasmo

What is a Frenchman doing making wine in the middle of the Venetian lagoon? You will find out on this fascinating visit to vintner Michel Thoulouze's wine estate on the island of Sant'Erasmo. The largest island in the Venice lagoon after Venice itself, Sant'Erasmo was completely abandoned in the 16th century after the plague decimated the entire population. In 1820, people started returning and building small farms, hence the nickname - the "Garden of Venice." It is famed for its fruits and vegetables, especially the small, violet-colored artichokes called castraure. You will tour one of these farms with a member of the family who owns it and learn about the fresh, seasonal produce that is sold daily in the Rialto market. Next stop is the only vineyard in the Venetian lagoon where wine is produced. A decade ago, Michel Thoulouze, a successful French television producer moved here and painstaking restored the vineyards. This labor of love resulted in a white wine that is a unique blend of 50% Malvasia Bianca, 40% Vermentino and 10% Fiano grapes. Called Orto, after the island's vegetable gardens, it is a fresh, white wine with a depth of flavor and a minerality that is perfect when paired with seafood. After an explanation of the wine-making process and a look at the stainless-steel tanks in which it is made, you will enjoy a three-course lunch of seafood specialties before heading back to Venice on the vaporetto with a lasting memory of your short but delightful visit to the island of San Erasmo!

Veneto: The Land of Prosecco

In the hills around the villages of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, you will enter a magical world: the land of Prosecco. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages are the scenic backdrop for this full day excursion, and this Italian sparkling white wine - often called Italian champagne due to its crisp, bubbly taste - will be your guide. After a short stop by a waterfall beside an old mill, you'll head to the Toffoli Vineyards, known for their fine Prosecco. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included, with some local delicacies to accompany the wine. Here you'll be able to learn how a simple white wine can become an excellent, sparkling Prosecco. This family-run business has adopted a system to exploit the natural preservatives contained in the skins of the grapes, adding virtually no sulphates that often cause headaches; the result is one of the most remarkable Proseccos on the market. The Molinetto della Croda, an ancient grist mill in the Lierza valley, has inspired artists and charmed thousands of visitors in its nearly four centuries of history. After a short stop at the mill, you'll take the "Strada del Prosecco," characterized by some truly astounding scenery. There will be ample opportunities to take photos; for example, in the picturesque little village of Rolle. Lunch will be at a local trattoria, a lovely place serving typical Veneto cuisine with a panoramic view of the vineyards. After lunch you'll head to the Bisol Winery in Valdobbiadene where you'll visit the cellars and enjoy a guided wine tasting.

Archi-Wine Tour: When Architects Meet Winemakers in Piedmont (Full Day)

Alba is a picturesque, medieval town in the heart of Piedmont. It is the capital of the Langhe and is known worldwide for its prestigious truffles and red Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Here, modern architects have been rethinking the winery as a contemporary expression of tradition and innovation, agriculture and technology, and production and hospitality. Departing from and returning to your hotel in Alba or La Morra, this tour will introduce you to various aspects of the Ceretto brand. First stop is the colorful, little Cappella delle Brunate outside La Morra. Built in 1914 for the people who worked in the surrounding vineyards, this unconsecrated chapel gradually fell into a state of disrepair. The owner of the Ceretto Winery decided to hire two well-known artists, Sol LeWitt and David Tremlett, to turn the abandoned chapel into a piece of contemporary art. The artists' fee? Bottles of Barolo wine from the Ceretto family cellars! Your tour will carry on with a visit to "The Cube" at Ceretto's Bricco Rocche Winery in Castiglione Falletto. "The Cube" is a modern, hi-tech work of art in an inimitable setting. Designed by the Turin architectural firm, Deabate, it is fully-transparent landscape architecture presented as sculpture and blends beautifully into the surrounding countryside. Here, only Barolo wine is produced, for an annual production of 40,000 bottles. Next stop will be Ceretto's headquarters at the Monsordo Bernardina Winery right outside Alba. Housed in an 18th century farmstead, this project is a magnificent combination of tradition and innovation. Architect Giuseppe Blengini was inspired by the colors of the vines and the fascinating irregularity of the vineyards to create a state-of-the-art space dedicated to wine production and hospitality. A wine tasting is included. You'll have lunch at Ristorante La Piola in Alba's beautiful Piazza Duomo where you will dine on traditional Piedmont dishes, accompanied by an exclusive selection of wines. Afterwards, your tour will continue at Tartuflanghe in Piobesi d'Alba, one of the region's most influential truffle sellers. A culinary workshop will demonstrate the various processes involved in the preparation of white and black truffles. You'll also participate in a truffle hunting simulation.

Archi-Wine Tour: When Architects Meet Winemakers in Piedmont (Half Day)

Alba is a picturesque, medieval town in the heart of Piedmont. It is the capital of the Langhe and is known worldwide for its prestigious truffles and red Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Here, modern architects have been rethinking the winery as a contemporary expression of tradition and innovation, agriculture and technology, and production and hospitality. Departing from and returning to your hotel in Alba or La Morra, this tour will introduce you to various aspects of the Ceretto brand. First stop is the colorful, little Cappella delle Brunate outside La Morra. Built in 1914 for the people who worked in the surrounding vineyards, this unconsecrated chapel gradually fell into a state of disrepair. The owner of the Ceretto Winery decided to hire two well-known artists, Sol LeWitt and David Tremlett, to turn the abandoned chapel into a piece of contemporary art. The artists' fee? Bottles of Barolo wine from the Ceretto family cellars! Your tour will carry on with a visit to "The Cube" at Ceretto's Bricco Rocche Winery in Castiglione Falletto. "The Cube" is a modern, hi-tech work of art in an inimitable setting. Designed by the Turin architectural firm, Deabate, it is fully-transparent landscape architecture presented as sculpture and blends beautifully into the surrounding countryside. Here, only Barolo wine is produced, for an annual production of 40,000 bottles. Next stop will be Ceretto's headquarters at the Monsordo Bernardina Winery right outside Alba. Housed in an 18th century farmstead, this project is a magnificent combination of tradition and innovation. Architect Giuseppe Blengini was inspired by the colors of the vines and the fascinating irregularity of the vineyards to create a state-of-the-art space dedicated to wine production and hospitality. The visit includes a wine tasting. A delicious lunch of traditional Piedmont dishes, accompanied by an exclusive selection of wines, concludes the tour. The setting is Ristorante La Piola in Alba's beautiful Piazza Duomo, right in the center of town.

Exclusive Tasting of Craft Beers

The Veneto is famous for its distinctive, high-quality white wines, especially bubbly Prosecco that is increasingly popular as an aperitif. The microbrewery you will visit on this tour is situated right in the heart of "Prosecco country" and is proud to make outstanding beers that have all the characteristics of fine wines. You will be welcomed by one of their English-speaking staff who will give you an overview of the production process and the types of beers they produce. Currently, they make seven different kinds of craft beers and ales, all unique in taste with notes of caramel, coffee, hay, ripe pineapple and citrus fruits depending on the blend. During the beer tasting itself, you will be offered their original three to sample - Curmi, Audace, and Oppale - accompanied by a selection of delicious appetizers. Even if you were not a beer-connoisseur prior to this tasting, you will become one after you have finished!

La Dolce Vita: Desserts and Gelato

Life is short and your vacation even shorter... so eat dessert first! Bring la dolce vita to your kitchen by learning to make scrumptious Italian gelato and desserts. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or a novice, this cooking class promises to be both informative and entertaining. At this culinary school in the Prati neighborhood of Rome, you'll learn how to prepare gelato, Italy's incomparable ice cream -- high in flavor, low in fat and one of the country’s most famous exports. This frozen delight first appeared during banquets at the Medici court in 16th century Florence when Bernardo Buontalenti presented his recipe and his innovative refrigerating techniques to Catherine de' Medici. In addition to gelato, you'll make three other popular Italian desserts: torta caprese, tiramisu and a creamy mousse made with fresh ricotta cheese; then you will get to devour your creations at the end of the lesson. These authentic recipes will provide the perfect ending to all your home-cooked, Italian meals and are sure to impress your guests, no matter their age. What a sweet way to spend an afternoon!

Decadent Indulgence - Wine & Chocolate in Florence

Italy is the land of sweet indulgence: nothing says decadence quite like mouth-watering chocolates accompanied by dessert wines hand-picked as perfect choco-complements. In this wine and chocolate tasting, you will delight your palate with a luxurious selection of chocolates as well as three wines specifically chosen by our sommelier to go with them. Your chocolate tray will include a sampler of sweets, including the following: Chocolate with Almond Chocolate with Hazelnut Chocolate Truffle Dark Chocolate Milk Chocolate Along with the chocolates, you will also taste sweet wines and Grappa: Barolo Chinato from the Piedmont region of Italy Ala di Salaparuta from Sicily Grappa

Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine at Il Maccherone

Nestled in the hills of Tuscany, a mere 20-minute ride from Florence, lies Il Maccherone, a family-owned trattoria that has earned itself a wonderful reputation for preserving the authentic flavors of Tuscany while simultaneously capitalizing on innovative culinary techniques. As such, Il Maccherone is the perfect venue for both traditional and modern-day Tuscan cooking classes. Cooking is the birthright of Chef Sabrina Somigli. The daughter of two successful Florentine restaurateurs, Sabrina has been in the kitchen all her life. In addition to her extensive life experience, she has devoted herself to the nitty-gritty science of food, earning a degree in Agricultural Bio-technology and a Ph.D in Microbiology. Needless to say, she's a master chef and an unparalleled guru in the art of cooking! On Monday and Tuesday afternoons, Sabrina will teach a 3-hour cooking class in Il Maccherone's kitchen. Students will be fully immersed in the Tuscan cooking tradition and will master exquisite gourmet dishes that they will be able to recreate for friends and family. Afterwards, the class will sit down together to enjoy a wonderful meal with expertly paired wines. Students can choose from a variety of seasonal menus, so there's a cooking class to suit every taste!

Wines of the Doges - Wine Tasting in Venice

Wine has always been more popular than water in La Serenissima. The Veneto produces more wine than any other region in Italy and the city's wine bars, or bacari, serve an average of 50,000 glasses of wine each day! This two-hour guided tasting takes place in a typical Venetian bacaro in the afternoon hours, and focuses on the wines produced in the Tri-Veneto area (Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli Venezia-Giulia). Our expert sommelier will introduce you to local wines. Three different wines in all, selected according to quality, theme and the season. Then there are Venetian cicchetti -- freshly prepared fish, cheese or meat appetizers - to teach you everything you need to know about the pairing of food and wine.

Balsamic Vinegar Tasting

Wine tastings are famous, but have you ever heard about a balsamic vinegar tasting? This phenomenon is becoming ever more popular with gourmet travelers and those who are curious about how Italians eat. During this 45-minute tasting, you will learn everything about the production of balsamic vinegar and how the humble grape is transformed into a powerful and flavorful product. The way the wine is aged affects the taste and consistency of the vinegar so you will start by trying eight types of balsamic vinegars, ranging from the youngest to the oldest. Not only will the taste be different, but also the color and the smell. After sampling all of the vinegars by themselves, including a real traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena, you will try them paired with a wide selection of meats, Tuscan cheeses, vegetables, and even fresh fruits! Traditional Tuscan bruschette and a glass of wine of your choice will be also served.

A Cooking Lesson in the Land of Slow Food

Bra, renowned as the birthplace of the international Slow Food movement, is a pleasant, provincial market town about ten miles west of Alba. The glorious culinary tradition of Piedmont, combined with the regional food specialties that Slow Food has undertaken to protect and disseminate, make this the ideal setting for a hands-on cooking lesson taught by a local cook. Maria will invite you into her homey kitchen and share with you the recipes she learned from her mother and grandmother. You will meet Maria in the historic Caffe' Converso in the center of Bra where, over a creamy cappuccino and a freshly baked brioche, you'll discuss the menu and decide together the dishes to be prepared during the class. Then it's off to the local produce market to buy the freshest, seasonal ingredients, followed by a stop at the butcher, the baker and finally at a specialty food and wine shop offering the highest-quality cheeses and small production wines. After your shopping expedition, you will enter Maria's kitchen to cook a delicious, 4-course Italian meal with wine. This is a hands-on cooking class lasting approximately 2 hours in which you will learn the secrets to making a perfect risotto, and how to bake a scrumptious dessert. Then comes the best part - you get to sit down and enjoy the dishes you have personally prepared, accompanied by a glass of Piedmont wine.

Basilicata Wine Tour: Full Day from Matera

Basilicata is the perfect setting for this unforgettable culinary and wine experience: the genuine flavors, the indigenous grapes, the taste of the food and the friendly people combine to make this a memorable taste adventure. Your assistant for the day will guide you through this beautiful region and its pristine natural beauties. This ancient land boasts centuries-old vineyards that produce the famous Primitivo, Negromaro, Sussumaniello and Aglianico wines that are increasingly being singled out by wine experts for their structure and ability to age. Departing from and returning to your Matera hotel, first stop is the town of Venosa where you can admire the Aragonese Castle and many remains of the ancient city wall, as well as the Jewish Catacombs. This charming town is dotted with churches like the stunning Abbey of SS. Trinita' or the Baroque church of the Purgatory, both housing beautiful frescoes and inscriptions from the Roman era. After a walking tour, you will stop at a local winery: a visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Next comes lunch at a typical farmhouse, a lovely place serving healthy and delicious cucina povera from Basilicata. After lunch you will head to Melfi, a small town full of history. You will visit the imposing 11th-century Norman-Swabian Castle built at the foot of the Vulture Mountain, a strategic location that served as a gateway between Campania and Apulia. The eastern slopes of Vulture around the towns of Barile and Melfi are the sites of the best Aglianico vineyards. The excursion concludes with a second winery visit and a guided wine tasting.

Cooking Class in Le Marche

Not everyone has a Italian grandmother... but that doesn't mean you can't learn to cook like one! The region of Le Marche has such a rich tradition of food and wine that it is one of the most natural locations for a hands-on cooking lesson. All menus will highlight the freshness and uniqueness of the local products used and will be cooked in the traditional manner. Maria is the expert cook who will demonstrate clear and simple regional cooking techniques in the well-equipped restaurant kitchen of the Locanda del Gusto, situated in Comunanza, a medieval village with a stupendous view of the Sibelline mountain range. Her recipes feature prized IGP and DOP ingredients, such as saffron and apples, which are cultivated in this mountainous terrain. As you cook together, Maria shares personal anecdotes and stories of the Marchigian culture and its age-old traditions, habits and culinary customs. Afterwards you will sit down and enjoy a delicious, 3-course meal of which you can be proud!

Half-Day Wine Tour in Le Marche

A wine tasting tour is the very best way to discover the culture and landscape of the Southern Marche, the heart of the Rosso Piceno wine producing area and a beautiful landscape in its own right. This celebrated dry, red wine is joined by the region's other main grape varieties, Passerina and Pecorino (a local white wine, not the ewe's milk cheese of the same name!). On the way to the winery, you will have time to admire the wild but fantastic countryside and to discuss the history and evolution of wine making in this area. At your destination, you will tour the cellars and receive a full explanation of the wines and other specialties that are produced here. A guided wine tasting follows, including at least one Rosso Piceno Superiore, as well as glasses of Pecorino and Passerina wines. Then it's time to stop at a local osteria where you will enjoy a delicious lunch of tasty local recipes. Before returning to your hotel, you will have some free time to visit the medieval village of Ripatransone.

Learn How to Cook a Flawless Meal in Basilicata

This exclusive cooking class will give you the unique opportunity to expand your cooking skills and learn from an expert chef how to make a perfect Italian meal. You'll prepare a 3-course meal using fresh, local ingredients, while your chef shares with you regional cooking secrets and special techniques. Did you know that in Basilicata there are over ten different types of fresh pasta? During this class you will learn how to prepare one of them: roll up your sleeves and test your skills on fresh orecchiette, tapparelle or lucane chiappute! For the second course you will prepare one of the most popular meats of the region: lamb. The chef will teach you about the different cuts and all the secrets on how to make it tender. Cutturieddu, a type of lamb casserole, is one of the most common recipes in which lamb is flavored with wild onions, hot peppers, ripe tomatoes and a few other fresh ingredients. After the hands-on cooking class, you will sit down and enjoy the meal that you have personally prepared, paired with the finest selection of wines. You will not only remember the taste and flavors of the dishes, but also the joy and fun you experienced throughout the class: the perfect occasion to create a memorable Italian culinary experience!

Truffle Hunting in Le Marche: Half Day Excursion

Experience the true flavor of rural life in Le Marche by taking part in a fantastic morning of truffle hunting on a private estate in the splendid countryside outside Ascoli Piceno. Surrounded by mountains and natural parks, the area is blessed with truffles almost all year round: black truffles from January to March and from May to September and white truffles from September to December. Led by local experts and their trained truffle dogs, you will venture deep into the woods where this precious subterranean mushroom grows. Afterwards, you will sit down to mouthwatering lunch with a menu created around the truffles that you found.

Amalfi Coast Tour: Flavors of History

The Amalfi Coast is not only known for its seductive panoramas and intense blue sea, but also for the flavors and tastes of the local gastronomy. This Mediterranean pearl boasts a large range of typical specialties, created mostly from locally-grown products. Departing from and returning to your hotel, you'll start your tour with a short guided visit of the village of Ravello. One of the most elegant town on the Amalfi Coast, this place has inspired writers, artists and musicians, and has attracted numerous international celebrities. Perched high on the cliffs above Amalfi, Ravello is visited for its beautiful gardens and other important sites such as the Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and the splendid Romanesque Duomo. Your tour will continue with a visit to Amalfi and a tasting of limoncello at Antichi Sapori d'Amalfi. This family-run store offers homemade limoncello, produced with local lemons, as well as an array of other products. Your guide will then take you to the Amalfi Paper Mill and Museum where you can admire ancient methods of paper production that the locals learned from the Arabs. Lunch at Trattoria da Rispoli follows. After lunch, you'll go to Positano for a guided tour and a stop for coffee. This dreamy coastal town, etched upon the face of a rocky cliff, is known for the church of Santa Maria Assunta that contains a 13th century icon of the Black Madonna. According to local legend, this icon was stolen from Byzantium and transported by pirates across the Mediterranean.

The Flavors of Vesuvius

Pompeii is considered as one of the most significant historic vestiges of Roman civilization and, like an open book, provides essential information about the art, customs and everyday life of the past. Following the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., the city has re-emerged from centuries of darkness and layers of ash, bringing to light a fascinating picture of daily life. Departing from and returning to your hotel, this tour takes you back in time, starting with a visit to the archaeological site at Pompeii. Once a thriving resort town populated by wealthy people, Pompeii today offers remains of restored temples, eateries and the preserved bodies of those who died trying to escape. This journey through the ancient city will help you imagine the daily routine of Pompeii and the panic felt by its inhabitants in the minutes before it was completely buried. Next stop will be La Cantina del Vesuvio Winery, located in the National Park of Vesuvius at the base of the volcano, an area well-known for its rich, volcanic soil that is perfect for growing grapes. Here you'll visit the vineyards and olive groves of the winery before tasting some of their outstanding wines. Wine is produced here in three classic versions: Lacryma Christi of the Vesuvius DOC red, rose' and white. A lunch of traditional dishes carefully prepared using genuine, local products will follow.

Ancient Paestum: Wine, Cheese and Ruins

The three Doric temples at Paestum are said to be the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. These magnificent monuments date back to the 6th and 5th centuries B.C., and are dedicated to the city's namesake Poseidon (also known as Neptune, god of the sea), Hera and Ceres. Near sandy beaches in a region known for its typical wines and delicious mozzarella di bufala cheese, Paestum is off the beaten tourist path so you can admire these perfect monuments in all their pristine beauty. Departing from and returning to your hotel on the Amalfi Coast, first stop will be the Tenuta Vannulo, a farm in the heart of the Campania region where mozzarella di bufala is still produced in a very traditional way. You will tour the farm and learn all about the cheese-making process before sitting down to taste the freshly made cheese. At the winery Marino you will enjoy a selection of Italian specialties accompanied by some of the typical wines of the South. A guided tour of the archaeological site of ancient Paestum and a museum that will give you a feel of life in the Italian countryside completes this full-day excursion that combines history and cuisine of Southern Italy.

The Celebrated White Wines of Irpinia

Irpinia is a region of the Apennine mountains around the town of Avellino, 25 miles east of Naples and about an hour'’s drive from the Amalfi Coast. On this full-day excursion you'll have the two of Irpinia's most respected wineries: Feudi di San Gregorio and Cantina di Marzo. Departing from and returning to your Naples hotel, the first stop is the Feudi di San Gregorio winery. Founded in 1986, San Gregorio symbolizes the enological Renaissance of Southern Italy and its centuries-old culture of wine drinking. After touring the winery, you will have brunch at the Feudi di San Gregorio. The meal is accompanied by a wine tasting entirely dedicated to the authentic and renowned white wines produced in Irpinia, Fiano di Avellino and Falanghina. After lunch this tour takes you back in time to one of the oldest wineries in Italy, Cantina di Marzo. Founded in 1647, it is a small, family-run wine producer in the center of the characteristic village of Tufo, surrounded by vineyards. The estate’s unique cellars are composed of a series of caverns and tunnels dug into the rock. Here, together with the wine tasting, you will enjoy typical local cheeses. In the hills around the village of Sorbo Serpico, you will enter a magical world of unexpected streams, rare rose bushes and gardens of aromatic herbs. The most wonderful surprise, however, awaits you in the wine cellar. Here you will encounter the long barriquerie, used in the production of Prosecco and other niche wines evoking the long tradition of Irpinia's viticulture. A final wine tasting concludes the tour before you are returned to your hotel.

Chianti Nord Wine Tour: Full Day

Produced in the undulating hills of the Tuscan countryside between Florence and Siena, the famous Chianti Classico wine is known and celebrated all over the world. Tidy rows of vineyards set amidst historic villages and silvery-green olive trees are the scenic backdrop for this full day wine excursion to Chianti Country. Departing from and returning to your Florence hotel, first stop is the town of Greve in Chianti with its picturesque, asymmetrical main piazza. It is lined by a succession of palaces, porticoes and loggias with the rebuilt church of Santa Croce at one end, housing beautiful Renaissance paintings from the School of Fra Angelico. At the other end of the piazza stands a statue of the explorer, Giovanni da Verrazzano, who discovered New York Harbor. After a tour of Greve you'll head to the Casaloste Vineyards, known for their fine Chianti Classico and Riserva wines. A visit to the cellars and a guided wine tasting are included. Next stop will be lunch at the Osteria La Scuderia, a lovely place serving typical Tuscan cuisine. After lunch you will head either to the Antinori vineyards at Badia di Passignano or to the small castle of Montefioralle depending on availability. Then you'll visit the cellars of the Setriolo estate in Castellina in Chianti to learn how grapes become wine; a guided tasting follows.