TOUR SCHEDULE
Day 1 – Board your overnight flight to Milan, Italy
Day 2 – Arrive in Milan
Welcome to Milan! Upon clearing customs meet your Tour Director and transfer as a group to Parma an enchanting city lauded for its pasta, prosciutto and parmesan cheese. Your first stop takes you to the Castle of Felino and the museum of Felino Salame, followed by lunch at the Locanda del Castello castle. Later, experience a guided walking tour of the city center. A representative of the Slow Food Consortium will address the group and explain the philosophy behind the movement. (B)(L)
Day 3 – Parma
Our day starts with a visit to the Museum of Parma Ham. The museum allows the visitor to re-construct the production process from animal to cured meat. Your group will then be taken to a local producer where you will participate in a workshop on cured meats and hands on salami making. (B)(L)
Day 4 – Parma
This morning your group will visit the famed Academia Barrilla and participate in a cooking class specifically designed for it. After a wonderful lunch, your group will visit a Moderna balsamic vinegar producer where you will savor tastings utilizing balsamic vinegar. (B)(L)
Day 5 – Florence
Enjoy a half day walking tour in the city known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Included sightseeing with a local guide starts with a visit to the Uffizi Gallery which is one of the most famous museums in the world. Here you will find precious masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raffaelo. Tonight we dine at II Cibreo Tratoria where the the celebrated chef, Fabio Picchi is a follower of the Slow Food movement. (B)(L)(D)
Days – 6, 7 & 8 – Tuscany
For the next three days, your group will be staying in the breathtaking Chianti region of Tuscany dotted with unique Agriturism / winery hotels. A personalized tour of two wineries is where you will find an ancient wine cellar. Following the tours, lunch will be provided as well as wine tastings. During your stay in the Chianti region, you will visit a Chianina farm. Here you will see a rare breed of cattle found only in this area and famous for its tender consistency. Another special feature of your stay in Tuscany, is a cooking class utilizing all local ingredients. (B)(L)
Day 9 – Siena-Rome
Travel south today for a first stop to Siena, Tuscany’s most beloved and inviting city. A walk through its narrow streets lined with medieval palaces into the Piazza del Campo, which is shaped like a fan, is truly a memorable experience. This afternoon, motor from Siena to the splendid capital of Rome. The “Eternal City” is steeped in history, vibrantly alive, exciting, and absolutely unique! Included sightseeing with a local guide starts in St. Peter’s Square, followed by a visit to the Roman Forum and the mighty Colosseum Optional excursions are available to discover more of the “Eternal City.” (B)(L)
Day 10 – Rome
Start your day with a visit to the Vatican and its famed museum. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this ancient capital. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers in a local trattoria. (B)(L)(D)
Day 11 – Rome
Group transfer to the airport for your flight back home. (B)