Fall of 2024, we will immerse ourselves in the deliciousness of Italy's Emilia Romagna region, tasting specialties from the cities of Bologna, Parma, and Modena. And, the vino of course!
Italy, Emilia Romagna, Itinerary:
Day 1 – Arrivals, Thursday, September 5, 2024 Arrive at the Bologna airport or train station for private transfers toyour accommodation in Parma. After checking into your hotel, we’ll meet for a classic Italian aperitivo and head to a localrestaurant for a WelcomeDinner celebrating your first evening in Italy. (D) Day 2 – The City of Parma & Vineyards of Lamrusco Spend the morning enjoying the historic views of Parma. Head to a 15th century castle, Castello di Torrechiara. The name Torrechiara derives from the Italian word for touch as it touches the heart of the region between the wine and olive oil hills. From the hills of Emilia Romagna, learn about the vineyards and specific wines from the region with a visit to a cantina followed by a wine tasting. This afternoon, we’ll head back to the historic center of Parma and enjoy a food tour of the city. (B, L, D)
Day 3 –Parmigiano & Prosciutto Early morning departures allow you to see all the stages of production of the famous Parmigiano Reggiano in the Parma area. Visiting a Caseficio is like taking a step back in time. The “King of Cheeses” has very ancient origins, and today, like seven centuries ago, Parmigiano Reggiano is still made following the traditional methods. Next, we’ll head to a salumificio and walk through the factory, tasting your way through the selection from prosciutto to salami. Head back to Parma and enjoy the evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 – Cheese & Balsamic Vinegar Say goodbye to Parma as we head toward Bologna. Along the way, we’ll stop by another Caseficio to taste another type of cheese. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue to the balsamic vinegar production area and learn about the traditional methods to create this liquid delicacy. After a stroll through Modena, we’ll continue on to Bologna. After checking in to our hotel, we will have dinner at a local restaurant in the historic city center. (B, L, D)
Day 5 – Bologna, The Food Capital of the World Take a walk with a local guide and experience the vibrance of the city of Bologna. Bologna’s culinary excellence is rooted in rich history, and is often voted the world's food capital. As we walk through the piazzas and under the arcades, we’ll make our way to the market and try some of the local specialties. After visiting the market, we’ll learn how to make fresh pasta, then enjoy the meal we’ve created. Spend the afternoon exploring Bologna on your own. In the evening, we’ll join our tour leader for an aperitivo at a local bar before heading off to dinner on your own. (B, L)
Day 6 – Truffles Today we’ll head outside of the historic city center to meet our expert certified truffle hunter and his furry companion. Learn about the techniques of hunting, the various types of truffles in the region, seasonality, and how they’re used. After gathering our truffles, we’ll enjoy our findings with a truffle-infused lunch and other local products. Spend the afternoon exploring Bologna at your leisure. (B, L)
Day 7 – Brisghella & Olive Oil Today we’ll head toward the lower Lamone River Valley and experience the city of “olive oil and wine.” Brisghella is a city rich in architecture and food with a history that dates back to the 15th century. During our guided tour of the city, we’ll see the Manfredian Fortress, clock tower, and Monticino Sanctuary. In the hills of Brisighella, we’ll learn about the ritual of olive harvesting and how they are handpicked and pressed, with a tasting included. Enjoy lunch before heading back to Bologna. We’ll gather in the evening for a Farewell Dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 8 - Departures. Thursday, September 12, 2024 Private transfers to the Bologna airport or train station for your journey home or your next destination!
Included:
Seven nights in luxury boutique hotels in Parma and Bologna
Meals and activities as listed
Local transportation
Private experiences wtih a local, English-speaking tour leader and a GPA tour host
Gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and group restaurant experiences
Wine included in all group experiences
Airport transfers from Bologna airport (if you are arriving or departing from another airport such as Florence or Milan, we'll provide assistance)
Exclusions:
Airfare to/from Italy
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Food and beverages not listed on our itinerary
Additional gratuities (such as hotel services) not listed above
Additional nights' lodging; we can arrange it for you pending availability
$5,995 per person, double occupancy
If you'd like your own room the Single Supplement is $1,150
A deposit of $800 per person holds your spot on the trip. Final payment is due 90 days prior to the trip. Note: This trip will have a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 14 guests.