Italy awaits with timeless beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences in 2026—and I’m thrilled to take you there! From the rolling hills of Tuscany, to the romantic streets of Verona, from the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast, to delicious Bologna, next year’s journeys are designed to showcase the very best of what Italy has to offer.

Travelers will have the chance to immerse themselves in Italy’s diverse regions, exploring ancient history, savoring world-renowned cuisine, and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you’re drawn to Italy’s food and wine, or looking to simply soak in the stunning landscapes, our curated itineraries ensure a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. But let’s face it, the food will be plentiful!

Our 2026 departures are now open for booking, with multiple dates available to suit every traveler’s schedule. For the first time, I’m offering a summer departure—ideal for families, graduation gifts, or a special trip before the kids head to college. Each departure is personally accompanied by me, and also includes expert local guides, thoughtfully selected accommodations, and immersive experiences that bring Italy to life in a way no guidebook can.

Join me for a journey where every day is a new adventure, and every moment a memory in the making. Start planning today, because Italy in 2026 is calling your name—and I’m ready to take you there!

May 2 – 9, 2026: The Amazing Amalfi Coast

Experience the awe-inspiring allure of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where towering cliffs descend dramatically into the shimmering Mediterranean, and vibrant villages perch gracefully on the hills like gems. This extraordinary journey invites you to immerse yourself in the timeless charm and sophistication of one of the planet’s most captivating coastlines. Stroll through Positano’s winding lanes, lined with pastel-colored homes and chic boutiques overlooking sun-kissed beaches. Indulge in the region’s culinary delights— like lemons, and freshly caught seafood paired and exquisite local wines. Step into the historic heart of Amalfi, home to the striking Cathedral of Saint Andrew, and wander Ravello’s magical gardens offering panoramic views of the endless sea.

From the fragrance of lemon groves carried on the breeze, to the golden glow of sunsets over the horizon, the Amalfi Coast is a feast for every sense. Conclude your adventure with an exclusive private boat trip to the iconic island of Capri, with a delicious lunch with sea view. Ideal for travelers who crave exceptional cuisine, adventure, and cultural depth, this tour promises memories that linger long after you’ve left. Don’t just visit—let the Amalfi Coast’s irresistible beauty enchant you.

Highlights: Hands on cooking classes under the lemon groves, wine tasting and winery visits with local friends, a private boat ride to Capri, touring lovely Ravello and visiting Positano, with lots of other surprises along the way! This tour has been selling out every year since 2022, and 2026 will not be any different. Don’t be left out!

Accommodations: We are returning to the 4* Hotel Aurora in Amalfi. This hotel offers a prime beachfront location with direct access to the sea, just steps away from Amalfi’s historic center—perfect for combining relaxation and easy exploration without tiring climbs. Past clients of mine have also raved about the welcoming staff, stunning terrace views, abundant breakfast and delicious Aperol Spritzs made by the staff!

May 9 – 16, 2026: Eastern Sicily

Sicily, the crown jewel of the Mediterranean, brims with centuries of history, vibrant culture, and an irresistible culinary heritage. Embarking on a food and wine journey through Eastern Sicily is an experience that indulges every sense. Dominated by the awe-inspiring presence of Mount Etna, this region’s fertile volcanic soils and sun-drenched climate create the perfect territory for world-class wines and unforgettable cuisine.

Our curated tour takes you beyond the surface, revealing the island’s most captivating towns and timeless traditions. Begin in the enchanting city of Ortigia, our base for the week, where labyrinthine streets lead you past magnificent baroque facades and lively markets bursting with color and flavor. Continue to Ragusa and Noto, where ornate churches and grand palaces echo the splendor of a bygone era.

For food enthusiasts, this adventure is a feast of discovery—roll up your sleeves in a hands-on arancini workshop, uncovering the secrets of Sicily’s beloved golden rice balls. Explore bustling markets filled with fragrant herbs and freshly caught seafood, then savor authentic street food, from creamy cannoli to crispy panelle, on a guided tasting tour. Wine lovers will find their paradise on the slopes of Mount Etna, sampling bold, elegant wines born from volcanic earth. You’ll also dive into the world of Sicilian olive oil, tracing its journey from grove to bottle, and connecting with locals whose warmth and hospitality embody the spirit of the island.

Highlights: Indulge in a centrally located 4-star hotel, complete with daily breakfast. Savor abundant lunches during the week and enjoy several group dinners. Take part in immersive experiences like a market visit and cooking class in Ortigia, a winery tour with tasting, a visit to a working farm, and a boat ride along the island. Highlights also include culinary adventures in Ragusa and Noto, a street food tour, and an afternoon in picturesque Taormina—all thoughtfully curated for an unforgettable journey.

Accommodations: We’re returning to Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel. This wonderful 4* hotel is located across from the water, and removed from the hustle and bustle of the main piazza, yet only a short walk to all the shops, restaurants and gelaterie. This hotel also hosts one of the best breakfast station I have ever eaten at, including a cannoli-filling station!

May 16 – 23, 2026: Seaside Sardinia

Exploring Sardinia through a culinary and wine journey is an extraordinary immersion into the island’s vibrant flavors and deep-rooted traditions. This experience moves far beyond the usual tourist attractions, inviting you into hands-on cooking sessions where you’ll master cherished local dishes such as malloreddus, the beloved Sardinian gnocchi, and pane carasau, the island’s signature paper-thin flatbread.

Your adventure includes private tours of renowned wineries, where you’ll savor the bold character of Cannonau reds and the crisp elegance of Vermentino whites while uncovering the secrets of Sardinia’s ancient winemaking practices. You’ll wander through family-run olive groves, sampling some of the purest extra virgin olive oils, and meet artisanal cheesemakers to taste pecorino sardo, a true emblem of the region’s cuisine.One of the tour’s most enchanting experiences is a visit to a traditional honey farm, where you’ll be introduced to exquisite varieties like asphodel and chestnut honey, while learning about centuries-old beekeeping techniques. Throughout the journey, you’ll dine at picturesque agriturismos, relishing farm-to-table meals crafted with fresh, seasonal produce.

This immersive voyage delivers not just a taste, but a true connection to Sardinia’s culinary heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and genuine hospitality—making it an unforgettable experience for lovers of food, wine, and culture. With its warm spirit and untouched beauty, Sardinia stands as one of Italy’s most captivating treasures, and I can’t wait to take you there.

Highlights: Highlights include an extra virgin olive oil tasting, a hands-on Sardinian cooking class, a unique fishing tourism experience, and guided visits to the charming village of Bosa, a local winery visit, a visit to a Pecorino Sardo producer, and a honey tasting lesson. With ample time to explore Alghero at your own pace, this journey blends culinary delights, cultural immersion, and authentic local encounters.

Accommodations: We will be staying the entire week in Alghero, at Il Gabbiano Hotel, carefully selected for its strategic location. Nestled on Alghero’s stunning seafront, Il Gabbiano offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Sardinian sea, just steps away from the golden sands of Lido Beach. With its warm hospitality, modern comforts, and prime location near the charming old town, it’s the perfect escape for a relaxing and unforgettable Mediterranean getaway.

July 6 – 13, 2026: Summer in Southern Tuscany

Discover Southern Tuscany like never before with our exclusive small-group journey, set in the picturesque hilltop town of Cortona—my newly adopted part-time home! Surrounded by rolling vineyards and sun-kissed valleys, Cortona—immortalized by the beloved book and film Under the Tuscan Sun—exudes a timeless blend of elegance, history, and authentic Italian allure. You’ll stay in a luxurious boutique hotel boasting sweeping panoramic views, impeccable personalized service, and unmatched comfort. Enjoy the hotel’s award-winning breakfast (named the best hotel breakfast in Italy) each morning, along with thoughtful touches like daily mini-bar replenishment, complimentary evening appetizers, sweet cantucci with Vin Santo, and even one free laundry service per room.

Each day is designed to immerse you in the region’s rich culture and flavors. Sip exceptional wines during private tastings at acclaimed local vineyards. Learn to craft traditional Tuscan delicacies in hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs. Relish memorable meals in rustic farmhouses and acclaimed restaurants, where every dish is a celebration of heritage and passion.

This is more than just a vacation—it’s an intimate, soul-stirring experience in Tuscany, shared with fellow travelers who appreciate beauty, flavor, and culture. With every detail meticulously curated, you’ll be free to indulge, connect, and fall in love with Italy’s heartland. Join me in my new home of Cortona for an unforgettable escape you’ll cherish for years to come. Along the way, we’ll explore nearby gems such as Lake Trasimeno, Pienza, Montepulciano, Arezzo, and Siena—each offering its own unique charm and story waiting to be discovered.

Highlights: Enjoy exclusive experiences such as a welcome multi-course dinner in Cortona, two hands-on cooking classes, truffle hunting, a Michelin-starred lunch and wine tasting, guided tours of Siena, Arezzo, Cortona, and Lake Trasimeno, as well as olive oil and pecorino cheese tastings. You’ll also have time to explore Pienza and Montepulciano at your leisure, visit a working farm for a full-day culinary immersion, and savor a private apericena at “Casa Luce,” my personal home.

Accommodations: Perched in the heart of Cortona with sweeping views over the Tuscan countryside, Hotel Villa Marsili blends historic elegance with warm Italian charm, inviting guests into a world of timeless beauty. With refined rooms, romantic terraces, and a breakfast experience that celebrates local flavors, it’s the perfect retreat for those seeking authentic Tuscan indulgence.

October 9 – 16, 2026: Bologna and its Neighbors

Renowned as Italy’s gastronomic gem, Bologna is a dream destination for food lovers, and I am excited to be returning for my fifth tour here! Tucked within the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, this vibrant city seamlessly blends centuries-old culinary traditions with a bustling, modern food culture that draws gourmands from across the world. Exploring Bologna is nothing short of a journey deep into the essence of Italian cuisine, where each bite tells a story of heritage and passion.

Our journey begins in the lively Quadrilatero district, a historic marketplace brimming with life. Stalls showcase an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats, from silky mortadella and savory prosciutto to the celebrated Parmigiano-Reggiano. Step inside cozy, family-owned trattorias to savor hand-rolled tagliatelle al ragù—true Bolognese in its purest form—and witness the delicate craft of tortellini, poetically known as “the navel of Venus.”

No culinary pilgrimage here would be complete without sampling the famed Aceto Balsamico di Modena from nearby Modena or raising a glass of sparkling Lambrusco to toast the flavors of the land. Hands-on experiences like a traditional pasta-making workshop add another layer to the adventure, offering a chance to connect with the artistry behind these timeless dishes. A food tour through Bologna and Emilia-Romagna is far more than a feast—it’s an immersion into one of Italy’s richest cultural landscapes. Let the city’s flavors, aromas, and traditions sweep you away on an unforgettable gastronomic odyssey.

Highlights: Indulge 7 nights at a 4-star hotel in the heart of the city, complete with daily breakfasts and lunches, plus two special dinners with wine. Enjoy immersive culinary experiences including a Bologna walking tour, hands-on pasta workshop, olive oil tasting with lunch, and visits to renowned producers of Parmigiano Reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto.

Accommodations: We’re returning to our favorite hotel in Bologna: The Art Hotel Commercianti. This hotel offers the perfect blend of history, elegance, and convenience. Housed in a beautifully restored 12th-century medieval guild hall next to the Basilica of San  Petronio, the hotel immerses guests in authentic architectural charm while keeping them steps from major attractions like Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and fine dining and shopping streets.

October 16 – 23, 2026: The Lakes and Romantic Verona

Experience the enchantment of Northern Italy in the golden glow of autumn on this unforgettable journey through the serene Italian Lakes and the timelessly romantic city of Verona. Your adventure begins on the tranquil shores of Lake Orta, a hidden gem where narrow cobblestone streets wind past pastel-hued houses, and the ethereal island of San Giulio emerges like a dream from the water. Here, history whispers through ancient monasteries and quiet piazzas, setting the perfect tone for the days ahead.

Continue to the shimmering expanse of Lake Maggiore, where you’ll enjoy an intimate encounter with local traditions during a private cheese tasting hosted by a passionate artisan. Savor the complex flavors of the region’s renowned cheeses before embarking on a dreamy boat ride across the lake to the opulent Borromean Islands. These island jewels are adorned with magnificent baroque palaces, intricate architecture, and flourishing terraced gardens that offer breathtaking views at every turn. Next, immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Lake Como, a destination synonymous with beauty and glamour. Explore its grand lakeside villas, stroll through gardens alive with autumn colors, and wander charming villages where every alleyway opens to a postcard-perfect view of the mountains reflected in the water.

From there, journey to Verona, the city of star-crossed lovers, where history and romance intertwine. A guided foodie walk will introduce you to the city’s vibrant culinary scene—taste authentic local delicacies, sip fine wines, and uncover the hidden gastronomic treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, all while tracing the footsteps of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Your exploration deepens in the rolling vineyards of Valpolicella, where you’ll visit a boutique winery to sample the region’s celebrated Amarone. The grand finale awaits in the storybook village of Borghetto sul Mincio, a fairytale enclave of medieval mills and flower-draped bridges. Here, you’ll join a local chef for a hands-on cooking class to master the art of crafting delicate tortellini, followed by a leisurely lunch featuring your creations. Finally, cap off your adventure with a private cruise on the sparkling waters of Lake Garda, where you’ll take in the beauty of Italy’s largest lake in the soft light of late afternoon.

Highlights: Experience an unforgettable journey through Northern Italy’s most enchanting destinations. Enjoy a welcome dinner, private boat tour of Lake Orta, and exclusive visits like a cheese refiner tasting and a Fourteenth-Century manor in Valpolicella. Delight in guided tours of Lake Como, Verona, and Peschiera del Garda, with culinary highlights including a traditional Valpolicella lunch and hands-on tortellini cooking class in Borghetto sul Mincio.

Accommodations: For this tour, we will be staying in two wonderful hotels: Hotel San Rocco, Lake Orta is a serene lakeside retreat set in a converted convent, offering breathtaking views of Lake Orta and San Giulio Island, a scenic rooftop garden and spa, and a peaceful floating jetty for aperitivo moments. Boutique Hotel Touring, Verona is a stylish boutique nestled right in Verona’s historic heart, offering sleek, contemporary rooms and excellent service—all in a quiet yet supremely convenient location mere steps from landmarks like Piazza delle Erbe and the Arena.

October 24 – 31, 2026: Fall in Tuscany’s Countryside

We’re once again running our annual tour of Tuscany’s Chianti region! Our home base will be a private villa nestled in the rolling hills of San Casciano in Val di Pesa, offering breathtaking views of vineyards, olive groves, and timeless Tuscan landscapes. Each day, you’ll awaken to the serene beauty of this region and set off to experience one-of-a-kind adventures designed to immerse you deeply in its culture, traditions, and flavors.

Throughout the week, we’ll embark on extraordinary excursions that provide an insider’s perspective rarely accessible to visitors. Discover picturesque hilltop villages where time seems to stand still, visit renowned wineries to savor world-class Chianti wines, and meet local farmers and artisans who will share their craft and passion with you. Autumn in Tuscany is magical, alive with the harvest of grapes, olives, and chestnuts—making it the perfect season to indulge in the region’s finest offerings.

You’ll enjoy unique, hands-on experiences such as a traditional bread-making workshop led by a skilled local panaio (baker), truffle hunting in the forest guided by an expert forager and their faithful dog, and authentic cooking classes where you’ll learn to prepare classic Tuscan dishes. And of course, you’ll have the freedom to sip as much wine as your heart desires throughout the week. This journey is crafted for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing—those eager to live like a true Tuscan. While we’ll provide guided tours and curated activities to enrich your understanding of the area, you’ll also have ample free time to wander, relax, and create your own unforgettable moments. Join us for this remarkable adventure and let Tuscany capture your heart in a way you’ll never forget.

Highlights: Immerse yourself in an all-inclusive getaway in a stunning villa with panoramic views and gracious hosts. Savor daily gourmet experiences with unlimited local wine, from hands-on pizza, focaccia, and saffron cooking classes to exclusive winery tours, olive oil tastings, and truffle hunting adventures. Explore the charm of Tuscany through guided visits to Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti’s hill towns, and cultural gems like the Marradi Chestnut Festival, making this a truly unforgettable culinary journey.

Accommodations: We’re once again staying at Villa Miranda. This lovingly restored 15th‑century Tuscan stone farmhouse, nestled among Chianti’s olive groves and vineyards, radiates authentic charm—complete with terracotta floors, chestnut beams, and lively touches like recycled‑wood accents—plus a serene outdoor area to enjoy your breakfast or afternoon aperitivo.

Conclusion

No matter which of these incredible destinations speaks to you, our 2026 journeys promise unforgettable moments at every turn. With carefully planned itineraries, knowledgeable guides, and seamless travel experiences, all you have to do is choose your dream destination and get ready to explore. Italy is waiting, and the perfect time to experience it is just around the corner—secure your spot today and let the adventure begin!