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DAY 1: BOLOGNA ARRIVAL
Upon your independent arrival in the historic city of Bologna, check into your hotel and settle in. Take some time to explore the charming streets and perhaps find a cozy spot for dinner. Optional private transfers are available upon request for your convenience. Overnight stay in Bologna.
Accommodation at Starhotel Excelsior, Mercure Centro, Bologna, or similar
DAY 2: BOLOGNA: ENOGASTRONOMIC CAPITAL OF EUROPE
After indulging in a delightful hotel breakfast, your day kicks off with a rendezvous with your private guide for an immersive tour of Bologna, the captivating capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Renowned as the gastronomic epicenter of Europe, Bologna promises an exquisite start to your culinary journey through northern Italy. Home to the oldest university in the Western world, Bologna boasts a rich tapestry of history shaped by the Romans, Etruscans, and Gauls. Your tour offers a blend of traversing tranquil side streets and exploring iconic landmarks like the Basilica di San Petronio and Piazza Maggiore.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into the culinary heritage of Bologna with a hands-on cooking class. Under the expert guidance of local chefs, master the art of crafting either delicate tortellini or sumptuous tagliatelle al ragù. Conclude your culinary odyssey with a delectable dinner featuring the renowned Bolognese delicacy you've mastered.
Accommodation at Starhotel Excelsior, Mercure Centro, Bologna, or similar
DAY 3: MODENA & FERRARI
On your third day, you will leave Bologna and travel to the countryside around Modena for a night. En route to your accommodation, your driver will drop you off in the city of Modena for a short independent exploration before you visit a traditional balsamic vinegar cellar and enjoy a tasting session. This will be followed by a classic, rustic lunch of tigelle bread and cold-cut meat.
After lunch, you will get the chance to visit the city’s Ferrari Museum to learn about the history of the sports car and see both classic and modern models. Your driver will then take you to your beautiful countryside accommodation, where you will be served a gourmet evening meal outdoors, overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Accommodation at Agriturismo Acetaia Sereni, Gelso Bianco Country Resort, Modena, or similar
DAY 4: MODENA TO PAVIA
Following breakfast amidst the serene hills, your private driver will whisk you away to Pavia, with a delightful stopover in Parma for an authentic Parmigiano cheese tasting experience at a local farm. After savoring the flavors of Parmesan, continue your journey to the heart of Parma for a delectable lunch and some leisurely exploration of the town's charms.
In the late afternoon, arrive in Pavia, where your accommodation awaits at a prestigious wine estate. Indulge in an exquisite dinner paired with fine wines, and retreat to your luxurious room for a restful night's sleep, surrounded by the tranquility of the vineyards.
Accommodation at Prime Alture Winery & Resort, Pavia, or similar
DAY 5: PAVIA
Set against the backdrop of lush, rolling hills, Pavia boasts idyllic landscapes ideal for leisurely strolls or picturesque bike rides. Pavia's culinary scene mirrors the abundance of the region's agricultural treasures. Local trattorias and cafes showcase dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
After free time to explore Pavia and enjoy lunch, continue your journey to Alba, passing through the renowned wine destination of Canelli, celebrated for its wine cathedral and exceptional spumante wines. Indulge in a wine-tasting experience before heading to your final destination in the enchanting Barolo region.
Spend leisurely moments in Neive, hailed as one of Piedmont's most picturesque villages, before arriving at your hotel for a delightful dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Accommodation at Relais Villa d'Amelia, Alba, or similar
DAY 6: CASTLES, SMALL VILLAGES, TRUFFLES, CHEESE AND WINE
Today's journey leads south to the Barolo region, renowned for its sprawling vineyards and breathtaking countryside. Regardless of the season, you'll be captivated by the picturesque hues of the hills and the fragrant essence of the fields carried on the breeze.
Your morning adventure entails truffle hunting guided by an expert accompanied by a skilled dog. Together, you'll venture into the Roero woods, where you'll glean insights into the secrets of truffle hunting. Learn about the preferred trees and soil conditions for truffle growth, as well as how to identify them aided by the trained canine. Lunch will be a truffle-infused affair, showcasing this prized ingredient.
Following lunch, your driver will whisk you to Barolo Castle for a brief visit before heading to the Marchesi di Barolo Winery for a signature tasting experience. As the day draws to a close, you'll journey back to Alba via one of Piedmont's most scenic routes, from La Morra to Vergne.
Accommodation at Relais Villa d'Amelia, Alba, or similar
DAY 7: TURIN: THE FIRST CAPITAL OF ITALY
On your final day in northern Italy, explore Turin, the historic capital instrumental in the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Begin by visiting the magnificent Venaria Reale, one of the world's largest royal palaces. Following this, indulge in Turin's traditional cuisine at a renowned restaurant specializing in local recipes.
Turin is renowned for its chocolate and is in close proximity to the Ferrero Rocher factory. After savoring the city's sweet delights, consider a visit to the Museum of Ancient Egypt, home to the second-largest collection of artifacts from this era.
As the day winds down, return to Alba in the evening. Enjoy a dinner at a local winery, where each course is expertly paired with a different drink, culminating your journey with a sensory delight.
Accommodation at Relais Villa d'Amelia, Alba, or similar
DAY 8: DEPARATURE
You'll depart from Alba independently, with the option to head home or extend your Italian holiday. If you prefer, private transfers can be arranged upon request for added convenience.