Culinary Treasures of Bologna, Venice, Michelin Stars & Exotic Cars

Experience the soul of Northern Italy through an intimate, all-inclusive journey that goes far beyond typical tourism. This 8-day adventure in Bologna and its surrounding regions offers an authentic immersion into Italy's rich culinary heart, where food isn't just eaten – it's a way of life.

Join our small group of just 16 or fewer guests as we make our home in a luxury boutique hotel in Bologna's historic center. Here, you'll discover why this region is considered Italy's culinary capital by the Italians themselves. Learn centuries-old recipes directly from local nonnas in their family trattoria, and experience the rare privilege of cooking alongside a Michelin-starred chef in his professional kitchen.

What sets this journey apart is our deep connection with local families and artisans. Visit a third-generation Parmigiano-Reggiano producer who might invite you to help milk their cows. Learn the secrets of traditional balsamic vinegar from a family producer in Modena. Step inside a century-old prosciutto maker's private aging cellar. In Venice, go beyond the tourist path with an exclusive visit to an artisan gondola craftsman's workshop before your private gondola ride through the city's romantic canals.

For automotive enthusiasts, we've secured special access to the legendary Lamborghini factory, where you'll walk the assembly line to witness Italian engineering excellence firsthand. Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello to complete your Motor Valley experience.

Our evenings are filled with authentic Italian experiences – from dining at Bologna's oldest tavern (operating since 1465) to sharing meals with local families. Enjoy wine tasting at a family vineyard, where lunch is served among the vines, and discover why this region's wines perfectly complement its renowned cuisine.

This isn't just a tour – it's a week of living the Italian way of life. Our local hosts (never ordinary guides) welcome you like family, sharing their passionate knowledge of the region's food, culture, and traditions. With all accommodations, meals, classes, and experiences included, you're free to fully immerse yourself in the warm, generous spirit of Emilia-Romagna.

Whether you're rolling pasta with a nonna, sampling aged Parmigiano in the cheese maker's cellar, or sharing stories over dinner with new local friends, each day brings authentic experiences that transform tourists into temporary locals. Join us for an unforgettable week in a region where tradition, family, and the art of living well merge into the perfect Italian adventure.

Dates & Prices:

Click here to view our dates and prices.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Bologna Arrive at your leisure and settle into your luxury boutique hotel in Bologna's historic center. Evening welcome aperitivo in a local café, followed by a stroll through the medieval Quadrilatero market district. End your first day with a traditional welcome dinner featuring regional specialties.

Day 2: Discover Bologna & First Cooking Class Start your journey with a hands-on cooking class with local nonnas Pina and Roberta in their family trattoria. Learn to make authentic tagliatelle alla Bolognese, traditional meatballs, and local specialties. Afternoon guided tour of Bologna's historic sites, including the world's oldest university and the iconic Two Towers. Evening pizza dinner at an authentic Napoletana pizzeria.

Day 3: Venice Adventure Travel first-class by rail to Venice for a day of unique experiences. Exclusive visit with an artisan gondola maker to learn about this centuries-old craft. Private gondola ride through Venice's canals to St. Mark's Square. Free time to explore the city's treasures, followed by dinner back in Bologna.

Day 4: Michelin Star Experience & Parmigiano-Reggiano Morning cooking class with Michelin-starred Chef Andrea at Ca'Matilde restaurant. Afternoon visit to a family-run Parmigiano-Reggiano producer, where you'll learn the cheese-making process and sample aged varieties. Evening wine tasting and tapas-style dinner at a local enoteca.

Day 5: Modena & Traditional Artisans Explore historic Modena and its central market. Visit a family-run acetaia to learn about traditional balsamic vinegar production. Afternoon at a century-old prosciutto facility to witness the art of curing. Evening at the historic Osteria del Sole (est. 1465) for a unique local dining experience.

Day 6: Supercars & Wine Country Morning behind-the-scenes tour of the Lamborghini factory (or Ducati motorcycle factory). Afternoon wine tasting and lunch at a family vineyard producing Lambrusco wines. Evening celebration with locals featuring music, dancing, and endless Italian hospitality.

Day 7: Ferrari Museum & Farewell Cooking Class Choose between free time in Bologna or a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. Afternoon market lunch, followed by a final cooking class with Pina and Roberta. Learn to make authentic lasagne verde and other local specialties for your farewell dinner.

Day 8: Arrivederci Breakfast at the hotel before departures. Leave with new recipes, memories, and friends from your week of authentic Italian experiences.

Note: All meals, accommodations, cooking classes, excursions, and first-class rail travel included. Maximum group size of 16 guests ensures personal attention and authentic experiences.

More Ways to Experience Italy With Us

While Tuscany and Umbria hold a special place in our hearts, you might be dreaming of a different Italian destination. We bring our signature family-style hospitality to Tuscany & Umbria, the Amalfi Coast, Barolo (Piedmont), Sicily, and more. Each location offers the same intimate group size, hands-on cooking, deep sense of family, and local immersion that make our experiences unique. Browse all our locations to find the one that calls to you. Click here to see them.