Italy has a way of burrowing itself deep within the corridors of your heart and never loses its capacity to enchant. This Bella Paese — beautiful country — remains heart-stopping, no matter if you are doing it for the first time or the 100th. Linger in timeless cafes over cappuccino e cornetto, sleep in palazzi-turn hotels, and listen to the sound of your heels on ancient cobblestone.  The Old World sentiment is deeply rooted in tradition, established over time, and evocative of a bygone era. It carries a sense of heritage, craftsmanship, and a refined aesthetic that sets the country apart. This tour encapsulates everything that is most seductive about Italy. Experience Old World Italia through new eyes. 

Arrival Airport: Milan - Train to Parma Rail Station

Departure Airport: Florence/Milan/Rome 

• Three nights in Parma and three nights in Florence
• Visit small hilltowns and medieval villages
• Visit Modena’s Famous Mercato
• Unique Artisan Walking Tour in Florence
• Food Tour of Emilia Romagna: Visit cheese,  balsamic vinegar and special wine producers 
• Day trip to Lucca
• Farm to table lunch at a local vineyard
• Free time to explore Parma and Florence on your own
• Special surprises along the way
• Feast on Italy’s best comfort food in local trattorias 

Kyle, a seasoned travel guide with over two decades of industry experience, has dedicated her life to creating enriching and inspiring travel experiences for diverse groups. With a repertoire of leading thousands of travelers (yes thousands!), she possesses an intimate understanding of the transformative power of travel. Her journeys span across the picturesque locales of Europe and the US, underlining her vast travel experience and knowledge. Yet, with every tour, Kyle's heart for her guests remains the same: to ensure every individual returns home with a revitalized spirit, a broadened worldview, and cherished memories of newfound friendships.

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DAY ONE (Arrival Day) Our journey together begins at the Parma hotel.. Here we will gather together, and stop for coffee for a time of introductions.  After you’ve settled in, we will meet our local guide for a stroll through Parma's picturesque streets. Later we will gather for an aperitivo hour and an unforgettable dinner at one of Parma's most celebrated restaurants. This is our chance to connect, learn one another’s stories, and toast to the magic that is sure to unfold when cultures collide.

• Walking tour Parma
• Welcome drinks and dinner 
• Free Time: late afternoon at the hotel

LIGHT WALKING: 1-2 MILES THROUGHOUT THE AFTERNOON. BUS 1 HR.. SLEEP IN PARMA.

This morning, our journey takes us to the picturesque Castello di Vigoleno set in the Piacenza hills, where history and architecture intertwine in a mesmerizing display. Wander through its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in its timeless setting. Next, we will visit a special winery, where we will learn all about the production of award-winning Vin Santo. This is the only winery that makes this dessert wine. After lunch, stroll through the charming medieval village of Castell'Arquato, where every corner reveals a new facet of its old-world charm. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this ancient town, basking in the beauty of its well-preserved architecture and captivating vistas. This place doesn’t even seem real. Conclude the day by returning to Parma for an evening of leisure and dining on your own.

• Explore the villages Castello di Vigoleno and Castell’Arquato.
• Visit a special winery Vin Santo of Vigoleno 
• Lunch: Local area restaurant 
• Free Time: Dinner in Parma

LIGHT WALKING: 2-4 MILES THROUGHOUT THE DAY, LIGHT HILLS AND STAIRS. BUS 1 HR 45 MINS. SLEEP IN PARMA.

Today, we will set out early for a day filled with culinary delights and historical intrigue. Our journey will take us to the heart of the region as we visit the producers of world-renowned parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar, offering an opportunity for tastings at each stop.
Amidst the picturesque hills, we will linger over lunch which promises to be a memorable experience. In the afternoon, we will have the chance to explore the remarkable 15th-century Torrechiara Castle, an architectural marvel that boasts stunning frescoed rooms and captivating views from its exterior.  Dinner together in the evening.

• Guided tours of producers of parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar
• Explore Torrechiara Castle 
• Dinner together in one of the best restaurants not just in the region but in all of Italy.

MODERATE WALKING: 2-4 MILES THROUGHOUT THE DAY, MODERATE HILLS AND STAIRS. BUS 2 HRS. SLEEP IN PARMA.

DAY FOUR ( Florence) Parma lets go of us this morning, and Italy pulls us south. If the road offers up a worthy stop for lunch, we'll take it, some unassuming spot that turns out to be exactly what you didn't know you needed. Once we check into the hotel, we will set off on a walking tour of central Florence including a visit to the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. This renowned establishment, dating back to the 13th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of perfumery and herbal remedies. Here you can immerse yourself in the stories and craftsmanship behind the products, gaining insight into centuries-old practices. Dinner together in the evening.

• Florence walking tour

• Visit Officina Profumo Santa Maria Novella

• Free Time: Morning in Parma

MODERATE WALKING: 4-6 MILES THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND STAIRS. BUS 2 1/2 HRS. SLEEP IN FLORENCE.

Immerse yourself in the beating heart of Florence! Our day begins with a timeless ritual at the city’s oldest cafe, for coffee and pastries. A perfect prelude to the day awaiting us. Join our local guide, a passionate storyteller, who will unveil the secrets of Florentine craftsmanship. Step through the curtains of workshops, witnessing the magic unfold of leathermakers, painters, bookmakers, sculptors, jewelers, and more. Feel the artist's passion ignite your creative spirit. After an insightful morning, we will enjoy a special lunch experience together. As the afternoon unfolds, Florence is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander through ancient city streets, lose yourself in museums, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. As the sun dips low, the city transforms, twinkling lights painting the scene with a touch of romance.  

• Coffee at Florence’s oldest cafe 
• Unique artisan walking tour
• Lunch on your own
• Free Time: all afternoon and evening. Dinner on your own.

MODERATE WALKING: 4-6 MILES THROUGHOUT THE DAY. NO BUS. SLEEP IN FLORENCE.

DAY SIX (Florence) Today is yours, mostly. No set itinerary, no meeting point, just a full free day inside a city that rewards people who wander without an agenda. Sleep late, chase down a museum you didn't get to earlier in the week, find the market stall selling the good leather goods, or do nothing at all and call it well spent. Come evening, save some appetite and some energy, because tonight is the one we've been building toward all week, a farewell feast. Our final evening will be an affair to remember and promises to be a crescendo to an unforgettable week together.

• Free time: late afternoon in Florence

• Farewell feast

MODERATE WALKING: SLEEP IN FLORENCE.

After an amazing 6 days together, it is time to leave. You will depart the hotel for the train station in Florence or the airport.