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Every country has its own customs, but if there’s one that really knows how to bring in this time of the year, it’s Italy. This is when its gleaming Renaissance façades find new inspiration. When its most elegant places become immersed in soul-stirring cultural celebration. And, if it’s even possible, when it serves up more delicious culinary treats than ever.

For our Italy by Travelive team, this season represents something truly special. So, let’s join them in celebrating it by finding out which Italian holiday traditions are their favorite.

Deborah – Regional Director

While originally from New York, Italy forever holds a place in Deborah’s heart; and these two festive treats may play a bit part in that. From the effervescent tang of Prosecco to the rich and scrumptious texture of Italy’s famous panettone, this is the perfect way to add some fizz to the season. And you can take Deborah’s word for it.

Prosecco & Panettone

“Everyone knows exactly what to get me for the holidays. There’s just something about the bubbly crispiness of Prosecco that makes everything feel brighter. And ‘panettone,’ with its soft buttery crumb and specks of citrus and raisins, is the one treat that instantly says ‘it’s holidays season’ in Italy. Together, they’re a perfect representation of Italy’s festive spirit. It really doesn’t get jollier than this.”

Oriana – Senior Travel Planner

Oriana knows Italy like the back of her hand; something that comes in very handy (pun not intended) when putting together top-notch cross-country adventures. However, when the festive lights go up, there’s no place she’d rather be than back home in Naples. And here’s why.

The History of the Neapolitan Nativity Scene

“San Gregorio Armeno brings the holiday spirit year-round. But during the festive season, it’s a whole other story. Lined with Nativity scenes and alive with magic, walking through this street leads you into the heart of Italy’s often uncanny traditions. When you see Holy Family figures sit alongside footballers, politicians, even TV stars, you truly feel the heart of Neapolitan culture: a perfect blend of art, humor, and tradition that never fails to make me smile.”

The Game of Tombola

“Tombola (Italian version of Bingo) is pure Christmas joy. Families gather around the table for hours, calling numbers from the ‘Smorfia,’ each carrying its own meaning or story. Laughter, teasing, and playful superstition fill the room. And, of course, it’s never complete without sweet treats like struffoli and roccocò.

George Koumarianos – Senior Operations Manager

Italy always carries a bit of sparkle. But if you really want to see it ignite, then Venice during the holidays is the place to be; as George will eagerly point out.

Venice in Lights: A Festive City on Water

“For me, Italy’s holiday season is synonymous with Venice. That’s when the city and Mestre glow with miles of lights and projections that reflect off canals and stone façades, turning even the quietest calli into something magical. Not to mention the spectacle that is the New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Bacino di San Marco.”

“And then you have the Christmas markets at Campo Santo Stefano or San Polo, where the ice rink adds a playful buzz. Or Murano, where glassmakers celebrate the season in true Venetian style with Natale di Vetro. However, one of my favorite moments is the Santa Water Parade on the Grand Canal. Seeing Santas rowing past historic palazzi, cheered on from the banks, is truly something else.”

Federica – Travel Planner

Think Lake Como can’t get any more enchanting? Think again. Even one of Italy’s most romantic and elegant regions can resist the festive season’s spell. And who better to guide us through its winter magic than Federica? After all, that’s where she’s from!

Holidays on Lake Como

“There’s no place I’d rather be during the holidays than back home, spending time with the people I love. That’s when the smaller villages like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio grow quieter, while the towns of Como and Lecco come alive with glowing lights, creative themes, and a unique festive spirit.

“The Christmas markets too are unmissable. Wooden stalls filled with delicious treats and handmade gifts; a cup of hot chocolate or vin brulé (warm spiced wine) in your hands; pure magic. There’s also ice-skating (no, not on the lake), making everything even more like a winter wonderland.”

Alexandra – Travel Planner

For Alexandra, it’s Rome for the holidays. We’re talking about the Christmas market at Piazza Navona. Spanish Steps decorated by the biggest designer luxury brands. A fun theme park for the younger ones at Villa Borghese. And, of course, delicious panettone (Deborah’s favorite) in some of Italy’s most renowned pasticcerie. But it’s the Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica that holds a particularly special place in her heart.

Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica

“Attending the Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica feels like stepping into the very heart of the season. The hush of the crowd, the swell of the choir, the breathtaking beauty of the Basilica creates an atmosphere unlike any other. You really feel a deep sense of connection looking at the candlelit faces, and the experience becomes even more meaningful when shared with someone dear. Last year, I had the privilege of taking my mother to the Mass, a moment I now hold among the most treasured memories of my life. This festive season, I can only wish that our readers and Travelive clients may experience a similarly unforgettable celebration, filled with joy and togetherness!”

Practical Information for the Midnight Mass at the Vatican: 

• Midnight Mass at the Vatican is celebrated by the Pope in St. Peter’s Basilica every Christmas Eve.
• Entry is free, but tickets are required and must be requested well in advance.
• Seating inside the Basilica is limited, so many visitors choose to watch from St. Peter’s Square, where the liturgy is broadcast on large screens.
• Plan to arrive early for security checks and to secure a good viewing spot.
• Expect a moving and unforgettable Christmas Eve experience unlike any other.

Sara Lollo – Travel Planner

A great holiday tradition is like a time machine. It can take you back to the most joyous and significant moments of your life; those which create core memories that last a lifetime. And Sara’s turns back the clocks in the most delicious way possible.

The Epiphany Puff-Pastry Camel of Varese

“One of my favorite holiday traditions has to be the Epiphany puff-pastry camel from my hometown, Varese. Sold in local pastry shops every January 6, this sweet, buttery, and instantly recognizable treat is a must-have on Epiphany morning!”

“The tradition goes back nearly a century, most commonly linked to the Three Wise Men and the Magi’s journey to Bethlehem. As a child, picking up a warm camel from our favorite bakery brought a magical end to the holiday season. Outside Varese, few people have ever heard of this pastry, which makes it even more special to those who grew up with it.”

Dora – Reservations Manager

Tuscany is quintessential Italy. Rolling hills, golden vineyards, rustic allure; it has it all. But that doesn’t stop it from getting quintessential festive during the holidays; which see its authentic charm reveal new, soulful dimensions. And this is what Dora loves about them the most.

The Living Nativity: Tuscany’s Christmas Soul

“One of the traditions that moves me most during the holidays in Tuscany is the Presepe Vivente, the Living Nativity Scene. In small historic villages like Greccio or San Piero a Grado, entire communities come together to recreate the Nativity with candlelit streets, artisan workshops, and locals dressed in period costumes.”

“What makes it special is how real it feels. This isn’t a performance, but a shared moment of heritage and faith, where even visitors are welcomed as part of the village. Walking through these scenes, surrounded by history, warmth, and quiet devotion, truly captures the soul of a Tuscan Christmas.”

Tatiana Deligiannidi – Customer Support Assistant

Tatiana may not hail from Italy, but her passion for it is unrivaled. Having spent a significant amount of time there during her studies, she developed a true fondness for its culture. And it all comes flooding back during the holiday season; or whenever someone brings up Krampus (you’ll see in a minute). Even when home in Greece, Italy continues to fill her memories with some of its most festive moments. And here are some of them.

Epiphany in Venice

“One of my favorite holiday traditions comes from my years of watching Venice celebrate Epiphany on January 6. On the night of January 5, La Befana, a kind old witch, leaves sweets in stockings for the good children and a little coal for the naughty ones.”

“Venice celebrates this with the Regata delle Befane: dozens of ‘befane,’ dressed as old women, row along the Grand Canal toward the Rialto Bridge, finishing at a giant festive stocking. What stayed with me most is the warmth of the people; families cooking, laughing, and somehow always making room for a visitor. Those evenings still make my heart feel at home.”

Winter Traditions in South Tyrol

“South Tyrol is a pure winter wonderland. Nestled in the Dolomites, this region blends Austrian and Italian traditions in the food, the people, and the atmosphere. Christmas markets in Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone, and Vipiteno glow with lights, music, crafts, and the aromas of strudel, pretzels, and mulled wine.”

“And then there’s Krampus! Saint Nicholas brings gifts, but Krampus comes for the naughty. During the parades, thousands of people dressed as fearsome demons race through the streets. It’s thrilling, unforgettable, and full of Alpine folklore. South Tyrol has a way of staying in your heart.”

The post ‘Tis the Season: Italy by Travelive’s Team Names Their Favorite Holiday Traditions appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

It’s hard to imagine that in a land whose culture is defined by passion and indulgence, exists a region where those things reach new aesthetic peaks.  A place where food tastes better. Cars are faster. And the rhythm of life beats with quaint, authentic zeal regardless of the season.

In Italy, that place is Emilia-Romagna; the birthplace of its most iconic flavors, automobiles, and charms. So, bring your appetite, and let’s race to see what makes it such an unforgettable Italian escape!

Italy’s Gourmet Heartland

No other region captures the soul of Italian cuisine quite like Emilia-Romagna. This is the homeland of delicate Prosciutto di Parma, aged Aceto Balsamico di Modena, and the world-famous tang of Parmigiano Reggiano. This is also where Italy’s food capital of Bologna beckons travelers with the scent of simmering ragù, inviting them to wander local markets, meet artisan producers, and roll fresh tortellini alongside a legendary pasta-maker (sfoglina). A perfect place for a bona fide Culinaissance.

Travelive Insight: To experience Emilia-Romagna’s gastronomic landscape at its finest (and tastiest!), pair your clients’ stays with private tastings in Modena’s historic acetaie or exclusive visits to boutique producers, for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Italy’s most flavorful legacy.

The Motor Valley

If anything is bound to get your appetite going, it’s the thrill of speed; of which Emilia-Romagna has plenty. Home to some of the world’s most esteemed automotive pedigrees, this region is the holy grail of Italian engineering and design. With Ferrari’s horses in Maranello, Lamborghini’s bulls in Sant’Agata Bolognese, and Ducati’s two-wheeled legends in Bologna, a journey here is simply incomplete without hearing the sweet roar of an engine. And travelers are welcome to do that by exploring private museums where metal meets imagination, and witnessing firsthand how these machines are shaped, tuned, and revered.

Travelive Tip: Clients looking to kick Emilia-Romagna’s sensory delights into high gear can pair culinary and cultural stops with a day behind the wheel of a vintage Alfa Romeo or Ferrari, bringing the theme of Slow Food and Fast Cars to cinematic reality.

Palazzo di Varignana — Where Luxury Reveals Authenticity

After all that culinary discovery and high-octane passion, you’ll need a place that balances energy with elegance, and nowhere does that better than Palazzo di Varignana.

Just outside Bologna, this refined countryside estate stretches across rolling vineyards and olive groves; a sanctuary where Italian sophistication meets holistic living. Its Varsana Spa invites deep rejuvenation through wellness circuits, panoramic pools, and treatments inspired by the surrounding terroir. Meanwhile, the estate’s farm-to-table dining celebrates the same culinary traditions that make Emilia-Romagna iconic, with estate-grown olive oil and wines gracing every dish.

Guests can deepen their stay with curated experiences, from truffle foraging and vineyard walks to private tastings and cooking classes that immerse them in the region’s flavors and rhythm.

Why It’s Perfect for Your Clients

• Ideally located between Florence, Venice, and Milan, with seamless access via high-speed rail or Bologna’s Guglielmo Marconi Airport.
• Offers the perfect balance of wellness, gastronomy, and discovery.
• Appeals to travelers seeking authentic Italy with elevated comfort and countryside serenity.

Bologna During the Festive Season

Emilia-Romagna isn’t all sun, wine, and pasta bowls. For come winter, it becomes an Italian holiday story told through glowing lights, laughter, and festive spirit. Around early November through late December, Bologna begins to glow under its UNESCO-listed porticoes, and the city’s heart starts beating with historic markets, nativity scenes, musical events, and joyous Italian traditions guaranteed to delight your clients.

Don’t Miss:

• Fiera di Santa Lucia (Portico dei Servi, Strada Maggiore) — Bologna’s oldest Christmas market, running from November 7 to December 26, 2025.
• Christmas Fair on Via Altabella — near Piazza Maggiore and St. Peter’s Cathedral, perfect for local crafts and festive gifts.
• Villaggio di Natale Francese (Piazza Minghetti) — a charming French-inspired market offering gourmet delicacies and handcrafted treasures.
• Oratorio di Santa Cecilia (Via Zamboni 15) — a Renaissance gem often hosting free Christmas concerts and local choirs.
• An evening stroll under the illuminated porticoes, where artisan shops, holiday scents, and glowing lights bring Bologna’s magic to life.

Giftwrap the Holidays with Palazzo di Varignana

Make your clients’ festive Bologna getaway even more enchanting with a curated 2–3-night stay at Palazzo di Varignana, which can include:

• Access to the Varsana Spa wellness circuit
• Possibility to book a private cooking class or an estate tasting of wine and extra-virgin olive oil
• Optional add-ons such as a guided Christmas market walk in Bologna.

Why Book Emilia-Romagna with Italy by Travelive?

Because you want to offer your clients one of Italy’s top under-the-radar gems. Because it blends authenticity, artistry, and appetizing treats like none other. And because this is where, with our on-site expertise and trusted local partnerships, you can craft bespoke journeys that celebrate Italy’s most desired and delicious aspects.

Fancy a taste? Then take a look at the following itinerary to see what might be on the menu: Food, Motors & Canals: Veneto & Emilia-Romagna Luxury Experience – Blog | Travelive

Alternatively, pair Bologna, Modena, and Parma for a perfect trifecta of markets, Michelin-starred dining, and artisan producers. Located within a day’s journey of each other, you can blend scrumptious culinary moments, supercharged automotive museum tours, and exclusive stays at Palazzo di Varignana, for a perfect balance of indulgence and tranquility.

Italy’s Finest Moments in One Unforgettable Region

Cradled between the Apennine hills and the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is where culinary mastery and artistic innovation live side by side. With mouthwatering meals, head-turning automobiles, and quintessential Italian appeal, adding this region to your next itinerary guarantees to send your clients senses into overdrive. Therefore, if they’re looking for a true taste of Italy, grab a plate, fasten that seatbelt, and let Italy by Travelive offer you a speedy serving of Emilia-Romagna!

The post Emilia-Romagna: Where Slow Food Meets Fast Cars appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

To ride through Tuscany is to find a road to its heart, and with Italy by Travelive your clients can do so effortlessly, beautifully, and most importantly, unforgettably. So, let’s saddle up and see how they can uncover Tuscany one pedal at a time!

Rolling Hills & Rolling Wheels — Biking in Tuscany

The Romans may not have built their roads with cycling in mind, but you can bet they’d love to go for a spin around Tuscany; especially with Italy by Travelive paving the way!

Just imagine waking up to a sunny Italian morning, your bike tuned and ready for discovery.Soon after, you’re gliding through landscapes where olive groves give way to cypress-lined hills and medieval towers rise like time’s own milestones. Along the way, refuel with a lunch in a handpicked trattoria, where the flavors of Tuscany speak the language of tradition. Come afternoon, guided tours, immersive artisanal workshops, cooking classes, and wine tastings reward your active efforts with a genuine taste of Italy.

With no crowds in sight and a most tangible grip on Tuscan culture, this is the kind of experience that gets your heart racing for all the right reasons.

Behind the Handlebars — Coasting with Italy by Travelive

This isn’t about pedaling faster; it’s about savoring Italy at its most breathtaking and authentic. And with Italy by Travelive, every turn of the wheel comes with care, comfort, and effortless style. Here’s what that entails.

• Bikes
  Each guest is provided with a top-tier carbon electric bike, fine-tuned to their exact measurements for perfect comfort and performance. With generous battery life and adjustable settings, your trusty ride makes sure no Tuscan hillis left unconquered. The routes themselves are designed for moderate cyclists using e-bikes, but easier or more demanding options are available on request.

• Support Team
  A professional trio of two certified guides and a mechanic ensures the ride flows seamlessly from start to finish. The guides handle every detail along the route, while the mechanic keeps bikes in top form and riders refreshed with water, isotonic drinks, and light snacks. And if you ever need a break, a support van will be ready to bring you comfortably back to the hotel.

• Health & Safety
  Because peace of mind is the foundation of every great adventure, travelers are offered comprehensive coverage that includes:

1. Specialized travel insurance designed for cyclists
2. Civil liability insurance
3. Italian health insurance coverage for non-European citizens
4. Full access to Italian medical facilities
5. Transportation to and from medical facilities in case of emergency.

• Ideal Time for Cycling

Travelers are welcome to gear up for their cycling journey anywhere between late April to late October. However, it is advised that they avoid August, due to the intense heat.

Every element is designed so your clients can simply ride and let Tuscany’s beauty do the rest.

Tour de Tuscany — The Routes, The Regions, The Revelations

Most of Italy by Travelive’s cycling tours are designed for a perfect 5-Day / 4-Night active getaway. But how far can you go on such an adventure? Well, with the right itinerary fueling your wanderlust, you can uncover parts of Tuscany you never knew existed.  And here’s an overv iew of some that guarantee to get those wheels turning.

• Northern Tuscany — Poetry in Motion

Cycle through a living gallery where every turn of the wheel reveals a breathtaking blend of coastal beauty and timeless charm. Traverse panoramic roads before descending toward the legendary Cinque Terre, whose kaleidoscopic villages cascade as a wave of color into the Ligurian blue. Pause at the Sanctuary of Soviore for a moment of peace beneath the pines, or linger in Lerici and Tellaro, where poets once chased the light that still shimmers on the waves. Between marble quarries in Carrara and the quiet allure of Montemarcello, this route is pure Italian artistry; a masterpiece best painted on two wheels.

• Southern Tuscany – Argentario’s Untamed Soul

Grab Tuscany by the handlebars and reveal its beauty at its most unbridled. Glide along the quiet coastal curves of the Argentario Promontory, where every turn reveals new shades of blue and gold. Pause in Orbetello to watch the windmill turning lazily over its lagoon, or in Capalbio, where Niki de Saint Phalle’s whimsical Tarot Garden gleams beneath the sun. Taste the rustic charm of Tenuta La Parrina and let the morning mist lead you to Saturnia’s thermal falls. Between medieval hamlets and Etruscan echoes, each ride feels like a rediscovery of Tuscany’s wilder, windswept soul.

• Maremma — Between Tuscany and the Sea

This is Tuscany as it was meant to be: sunlit, authentic, and breathtakingly real. Pedal through pine forests and across white gravel roads scented with salt and cypress. Pause in tiny stone villages like Buriano or Ravi, where time slows to a countryside heartbeat. Follow the trail to Cala Violina, a hidden cove where the sand sings beneath your feet, and linger in Suvereto, a jewel between hills and sea. From ancient Etruscan ruins in Vetulonia to seaside breaks in Punta Ala, Maremma invites riders to discover a side of Tuscany that hums with authenticity and dances to the rhythm of the waves.

Go the Extra Mile — Experiences Off the Road

All that cycling is guaranteed to get your appetite going for some of Tuscany’s cultural and culinary delights. Therefore, why not punctuate the day’s ride with some of the following?

• Guided Tours of Authentic Tuscan Towns
  Trade two wheels for two feet as you wander between the Renaissance walls of towns like Lucca, where cobbled lanes and sunlit piazzas let you step off the bike and into a living postcard steeped in history and charm.
• Dinner in Italian Trattorias
  Celebrate your ride the Italian way, with candlelit dinners in handpicked trattorie, where the pasta is handmade, the wine flows freely, and time slows beautifully.
• Wine Tastings
  Cycle, sip, repeat. Sample Brunello, Chianti, and Super Tuscan wines at boutique vineyards where the art of winemaking is as timeless as the rolling hills themselves.
• Cooking Classes
  From kneading fresh pici to drizzling golden olive oil, learn to cook like a Tuscan, guided by local chefs who turn simple ingredients into edible poetry.

The Ride of a Lifetime

In Tuscany, every road tells a story. From golden hills and fragrant vineyards to welcoming trattoria tables, this is where an exquisite stillness of life endures even in the wake of constant motion. And with one of Italy by Travelive’s immersive biking adventures, your clients can bring that sweet way of life full circle, one turn of the wheel at a time.

The post The Cycle of Sweet Life: Biking Adventures in Tuscany appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Even the loudest of personalities have a quiet, intriguing side. A side that only reveals itself to the discerning few who look for it. We all know that Italy adds a pinch of flair to everything it does. But sometimes, it also likes to take a backseat to flamboyance and just enjoy a ride through rolling hills of understated charm. And it does so in regions like Marche, where its beauty and authentic culture resonate through storied medieval villages and along scenic mountain hikes. However, make no mistake, for as this journey will show, a destination doesn’t need to be loud to make you fall in love with it.

• 4 Nights in Ascoli Piceno
• 4 Nights in Santo Stefano di Sessanio
• Private Transfers
• Private Touring Experiences

Day 1 – All Roads Lead to Marche

Benvenuti in Italia. Following the Eternal City’s brief yet warm welcome at Rome Fiumicino Airport, answer the call of Marche as you head out east across rolling hills and quiet medieval villages. Watch Italy begin to reveal its quieter side as you near Ascoli Piceno, where the rhythm of Italian life may be a bit slower, but every beat carries a touch more meaning. After check-in, let its gentle cadence guide you to Piazza del Popolo, where Renaissance façades glow at dusk, or a plate of Olive all’Ascolana, a regional specialty that promises a delicious introduction to Marche’s unassuming yet unforgettable character.

Day 2 – A Mountain Call to Truffles

Trade travertine piazzas for the lush, forested plains of the Sibillini Mountains as you follow a seasoned truffle hunter and his loyal canine companions in search of Marche’s prized black and white truffles. Upon gathering your flavorful treasures and some fresh eggs, learn how to turn your bounty into a staple of Italian cuisine with a hands-on lesson in crafting hearty, authentic tagliatelle. Finally, gather around a farmhouse table for a rustic feast of truffled pasta, local appetizers, dessert, coffee, and organic sparkling wine, celebrating Marche’s essence with sensory delight.

Day 3 – Legends Woven in Wool

Sometimes the mountains call, other times they whisper. Today, lend an ear to the tales of Monte Sibilla as panoramic ridgelines and forested trails recount its most captivating legends.  Guided by an experienced local hiker, step into the wild beauty of Monti Sibillini National Park. There, every breath of crisp, mountainous air reveals a piece of ancient lore, and every forested path seems woven with myth. Speaking of weaving, let your journey culminate at a traditional sheep farm, where you’ll witness the art of transforming raw wool into thread, opening a window into the pastoral heart of Marche’s natural and cultural heritage.

Day 4 – Ascoli Like a Local & Hilltop Wines

Awaken to the heartbeat of Ascoli Piceno and savor the morning at leisure, discovering its charms to the rhythm of the locals. Grab some breakfast and sip an espresso at Piazza del Popolo, watching its streets pulse with a life that still reflects centuries of tradition. Come afternoon, the hilltop village of Offida (heralded as one of the most beautiful in Italy) awaits your audience. Celebrated as much for its lacemaking as for its vineyards, have it treat you to a guided tasting of regional wines at a local winery, before returning to Ascoli for dinner at a charming trattoria, letting Marche’s understated elegance linger on your palate.

Day 5 – Kiss the Coast, Embrace the Mountains

As difficult as it may be, today you shall bid farewell to the fine-tuned charms of Marche. But not to worry, for heading south you will come upon Abruzzo, the greenest region in Europe, whose emerald allure can only be matched by its adventurous nature and captivating authenticity. Along the way, pause along the Costa dei Trabocchi, where traditional wooden fishing platforms turned seaside restaurants serve up fresh seafood kissed by Adriatic air and paired with sweeping coastal views. Then, find your lodging of choice in Santo Stefano di Sessanio, amid stone houses and cobbled lanes that offer a quiet embrace of life untouched by time.

Day 6 – The Life of a Shepherd

Step into the shoes of a local shepherd as you journey to Valle Scannese, a family-run cheese farm, and learn how sheep, goat, and cow milk are transformed into extraordinary cheeses through ancient methods. Let the cheesemakers guide you through an immersive tasting of products fresh from the source, uncovering flavors born from centuries-old pastoral traditions. With your appetite engaged, gather for lunch around a traditional grill to enjoy a hearty serving of arrosticini: tender skewers of local lamb. Whether this inspires you to take up a life as a shepherd or not, you will reveal a side of Italy few get to experience.

Day 7 – Vineyards, Valleys, and the Taste of Abruzzo

Swap the lifestyle of a shepherd for that of a winemaker as you journey into Abruzzo’s National Park, where Valle Reale’s biodynamic estate overlooks peak-studded landscapes. Walk through historic vineyards where Montepulciano and Trebbiano grapes draw character from limestone-clay soils and mountain breezes. Then, settle in for a private tasting of four estate wines, paired with freshly baked bread, golden olive oil, and cheeses from the surrounding valleys. Finally, linger over a leisurely lunch framed by vineyard vistas, where each course finds its perfect match in the estate’s bottles, discovering a true expression of Abruzzo’s natural elegance.

Day 8 – An Ode to Cheese and Italian Flavors

Let the cheese connoisseur within you rejoice with a delicious lesson in traditional cheese-making! Watch fresh milk transform into rich, rustic flavors and uncover new varieties as you taste the results of this centuries-old craft. From there, roll up your sleeves and join a local chef in learning how to shape spaghetti alla chitarra and ravioli, as well as preparing rustic bites like pallotte cacio e uova and delicate ferratelle. At day’s end, gather around the table to savor your creations with a meal that speaks of heritage, simplicity, and the warmth of Italian hospitality.

Day 9 – A Quiet Farewell

Having made your mark on Marche and Abruzzo, it’s time to let Italy tuck them away once more. After breakfast, bid farewell to Abruzzo’s timeless hills as your private driver escorts you to Rome Fiumicino Airport for your international departure. As the road winds back toward the Eternal City, carry with you the memories of Italy’s quieter side; and proof that even with a whisper, it can find its way into your heart.

The post Make Your Marche: In the Heart of Italy’s Beauty & Culture appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Redefine your idea of Italy’s timeless allure as you step out of its iconic boot and into the barefoot elegance of Sardinia. Dance to the rhythms of the sea on the golden beaches of Chia. Savor a unique stay in Oliena, where the island’s soul is revealed through mountain picnics, historic villages, and sunsets from the highest peaks. Then, reach a crescendo of luxury on the star-studded shores of Porto Cervo, as you gather the gems of its glamorous coast. Regardless of how well you know Italy, Sardinia guarantees to make it feel brand new.

• 3 Nights in Chia
• 3 Nights in Oliena
• 3 Nights in Porto Cervo

Day 1 – Transfer from Cagliari Airport to Chia

Begin in Chia, where Sardinia’s southern coast unveils itself in a symphony of turquoise waters, rolling dunes, and sunlit coves. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel of choice and feel time begin to slow as the golden sands invite you to wander barefoot along the shoreline. Let the first evening unfold at your own pace, watching the sun dip into the horizon with an aperitivo in hand or by greeting the night with a stroll beneath a sky washed in Mediterranean stars.

Day 2 – Cantine Argiolas Wine Experience

In true Italian fashion, Sardinia shall never let your wineglass go empty. Pair your stay in Chia with a guided visit to Cantine Argiolas, where every sip carries a glimpse of history. Feel the pulse of the island’s winemaking heritage in its fragrant cask-aging rooms, before bringing it to life with exquisite tastings and a curated meal of local specialties. Alternatively, set off on an immersive trip to Nora and Cagliari, where seaside ruins, medieval lanes, and elegant palazzi reveal Sardinia’s rich cultural tapestry and take you on a journey through time.

Day 3 – San Pietro Island | A Ligurian Gem in Sardinia’s Seas

Give into Sardinia’s tempting sapphire waters with a sailing journey to San Pietro, a volcanic isle sculpted by rugged cliffs and whispering sea caves. Wander amid fragrant Aleppo pines and inlets filled with songs of rare birds. Reach Carloforte, a town whose Ligurian roots and Tunisian past have created a culture as colorful as its harbor. Stroll through winding carrugi (alleys), pause beneath stone arches, and savor dishes where fresh fish and couscous mingle on the plate. Then, end your day at the island’s lighthouse, letting it guide your gaze across the endless blue.

Day 4 – Into the Heart of Sardinia | The Su Gologone Experience

Leave the coast behind as the road carries you deep into Sardinia’s rugged Supramonte, where olive groves, limestone peaks, and timeless villages turn the landscape into a work of art. There, nestled among said beauty, you shall find Su Gologone, a family-owned haven that turns each stay into an embrace of Sardinian soul. Here, every corner reveals a surprise: ceramics painted in vivid hues, alcoves adorned with local crafts, and a cuisine that brings traditions to the table. Check in, unwind, and let the rhythms of the land welcome you into a world where every day is an experience.

Day 5 – A Taste of the Mountains | Exclusive Experiences at Su Gologone

Speaking of every day being an experience, let this one unfold in the way that feels right for you. Perhaps with a sunlit picnic on the beach, where Sardinian delicacies are paired with the sound of waves. Or high in the mountains of Corrasi and Lanaitho, where rustic flavors taste even richer against sweeping views. And if you’re looking for deeper immersion, why not share a meal with local shepherds inside a pinnetthu hut, where the fire crackles, the bread is warm, and hospitality is as enduring as the land itself.

Day 6 – Secrets of the Supramonte | More Exclusive Su Gologone Experiences

There’s more? But of course! Today, the magic of Su Gologone continues, and it’s once again in your hands. Choose between chasing the sun to the summit of Mount Corrasi, where the day’s final light paints the Supramonte in gold and crimson. Or stepping back thousands of years at Tiscali, a hidden Nuragic village tucked into a collapsed cave, where Bronze Age ruins whisper of lives long past. Whether gazing at the horizon or uncovering ancient mysteries, today promises revelations shaped by land and legend alike.

Day 7 – Arrival in Porto Cervo | Gateway to the Emerald Coast

From the mountainous heart of Sardinia, your journey flows back to the sea, where Porto Cervo awaits with a shimmering promise of the Emerald Coast. A playground for jet-setters that’s still rich with Sardinian character, this glamorous enclave balances chic marinas, designer boutiques, and fine dining with stretches of cerulean waters that seem like an extension of the sky. Check into your luxury retreat of choice, relax, and let the sea breeze whisper hints of the coastal indulgence and discovery yet to come.

Day 8 – Flavors of the North | Cheese & Wine Indulgence

Awaken to the glistening sun amid Porto Cervo’s coastal splendor and embark on a quest for flavor through Sardinia’s proud wine (already a familiar delight by now,) and cheesemaking traditions. Head inland, to a family-run estate and taste wines that flow straight from the island’s heart, paired with cheeses and cured meats that tell the story of the land in every bite; if only you could pause between each one. Far more than a tasting, this is a flavorful reflection upon Sardinia’s unique character and timeless passion.

Day 9 – Emerald Horizons | Private Sailing to Caprera & La Maddalena

No journey to Porto Cervo is complete without surrendering to the call of its deep blue. Board your private yacht and set sail across the crystalline expanse of the Emerald Coast, where the islands of Caprera and La Maddalena rise like jewels from the sea. Glide into secluded coves, swim in surreal waters, and lounge on sands as smooth as silk. Should you wish, pause ashore for a seaside meal before returning to the deck and saluting the endless horizon.

Day 10 – Departure

As your Sardinian voyage draws to a close, let one final morning linger with the scent of sea air and the glow of Mediterranean light. From Porto Cervo, head to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, carrying with you memories of barefoot shores, mountain sunsets, and coves of striking blue. Sardinia has shown you Italy anew, and though you depart, the island’s spell ensures that it will never feel quite the same again.

The post There’s Something About Sardinia: A Journey That Reveals Italy Anew appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

A Golden Ticket to Italy

A trip to Italy can feel like winning the lottery. Hearing echoes of gladiators at the Colosseum, sipping wine in the heart of Tuscany, or floating along the canals of Venice are golden trophies for any discerning traveler. Yet with Travelive’s specialists by your side, you won’t just add these coveted experiences to your own travel canon, you will learn how to bestow them onto your cherished clients in all their glory. From insights into top WTB hotels to details of tours and transfers, this is more than just an immersive and fun trip, it’s your ticket to delivering the ultimate Italian adventure!

Interested in seeing what that might look like? Then check out the following report for a firsthand account of one of Travelive’s recent FAM trips to Italy: When in Rome…Florence and Venice: A Travelive FAM Trip Report – Blog | Travelive

Additional Details:

• Takes place March 08, 2026, to March 14, 2026
• Applications are open August 12-29th.
• Travel Advisors only- no guests, as limited spaces are available.

*Important Notice:
Submitting your application does not guarantee a spot on the FAM trip. All submissions will be reviewed, and selected candidates will be notified via email by the end of September 2025.

Travelive & WTB Italian Classics FAM 2026

Now that we’ve covered the logistics, let’s see what kind of adventures await on Travelive’s 2026 Italy FAM Trip!

• 3 Days in Rome

Who doesn’t want a chance to say ‘when in Rome’ when actually in Rome? Well, you may just get an opportunity to do so! Beginning in the Eternal City, the trip is set to cover some of the capital’s most enduring and endearing highlights. From the moment you arrive in Rome Fiumicino Airport, classic Italian hospitality will be waiting at a perfectly located property like L’Orologio Roma, just steps from the city’s most famous attractions.

Speaking of which, when in Rome (here we go again) you shall also learn why an evening golf cart tour is a great alternative for some traffic-free sightseeing that’s easy on the feet. Tick the Colosseum off your bucket list. And see exactly why the treasures of the Vatican Museum deserve to be appreciated with an exclusive early-morning visit.

Not bad for the first couple of days, right? Wait until you get to Florence!

• 2 Days in Florence

Has anyone ever told you that it’s all in the journey, not the destination? Then prepare to experience exactly what that means upon leaving Rome and heading to Florence. Making your way across the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, pause for a tour and lunch in one of its storied cities, turning the transfer into a delightful road trip; a great use of time during a short visit.

Once in Florence, properties like Hotel L’Orologio Firenze and Hotel Santa Maria Novella shall welcome you in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, one of the most beautiful squares of Tuscany’s capital. From there, all roads lead to discovery. Embrace the artistic heart of Italy in Piazza del Duomo and along the Ponte Vecchio. See its creative spirit blossom through crafts of traditional artisans. And, of course, sample its culinary gifts with generous servings of pasta, locally sourced cheeses, and lip-smacking gelato.

• 2 Days in Venice

While all roads may lead to Rome, this journey concludes on the timeless canals of Venice. After a scenic train voyage to the Floating City, find a new home along the Grand Canal at Hotel L’Orologio, a unique property within reach of the Rialto Bridge.

As you will quickly come to find out, in Venice, discovery is floating all around you; quite literally. Waste no time soaking up its charms and venture on an evening stroll through its storied alleyways, uncovering why this is one of the best ways to reveal the city’s secrets and enjoy its most iconic sights away from the crowds.

Beyond the glowing allure of a Venetian night, commemorate the grandeur of St. Mark’s, the intrigue of Doge’s Palace, and the whispers of the iconic Bridge of Sighs with a quintessential gondola ride, letting La Serenissima’s beauty unfold before you in all its buoyant splendor.

Italy Awaits!

Ready to go? From Rome’s eternal allure to Venice’s shimmering secrets, this immersive journey will sharpen your destination knowledge, deepen your client offerings, and reignite your own passion for travel. More than just a FAM trip, this is your front-row seat to the Italy your clients dream of. So, apply now and don’t keep it waiting!

The post Discover La Dolce Vita: Apply Now for Travelive’s 2026 Italy FAM Trip! appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Who doesn’t enjoy a nice dinner invitation, especially one across borders! Prepare to pay compliments to two lovely European neighbors as Slovenia and Italy host you in some of their most tasteful locations. From savoring the finest of Slovenian cuisine in Ljubljana and pairing Castle charms with wine in Trieste to raising a toast to Venetian splendor in the City of Canals, this trip is one get-together that you definitely don’t want to miss!

• 4 Nights in Ljubljana
• 2 Nights in Trieste
• 2 Nights in Venice

Day 1 – Arrival in Ljubljana

Feel the warm greeting of Slovenia’s charming capital, where riverside cafés, leafy boulevards, and its eponymous castle make for a welcome you will never forget. Settle in and seize the rest of the day by enjoying your first taste of the city. Venture on a gentle stroll along the Ljubljanica River, linger past the pastel facades of the Old Town, and let the open-air markets make you feel at home. It’s the perfect introduction to a journey where every bite, view, and story feels like an invitation.

Day 2 – Slow Food with a View

Discover Slovenia’s essence with a slow food experience that slows down time and lets you savor every second. Hosted within the historic Ljubljana Castle, pair thoughtfully prepared cuisine with sweeping views, as each dish tells a story of local ingredients, timeless recipes, and a nation proud of its culinary roots. As you dine at your own pace, you’ll discover that Slovenian hospitality is one that deserves to be relished, one unforgettable course at a time.

Day 3 – A Taste of Tradition in Bled

Trade the dining room table for a countertop as you roll up your sleeves like a true Slovenian in the fairytale town of Bled. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn the delicious secrets of time-honored dishes as you try your hand in preparing them using the freshest regional ingredients. With every recipe, traverse Slovenia’s heritage through its flavors, before sitting down and sampling their enduring delights surrounded by Bled’s alpine charm and a captivating air of tradition.

Day 4 – Coastal Flavors in Piran

Grab your taste buds and head to Slovenia’s sun-drenched coast, where olive groves rustle with the salty touch of a gentle sea breeze. Begin with a guided tasting of locally crafted extra virgin olive oils, diving into stories of patience, soil, and Mediterranean sun with every bottle.  Then, head to the colorful town of Piran for a leisurely lunch amid terracotta-topped facades and azure waters. There, every regional specialty and every coastal delight reveals that good taste is truly a thing of beauty.  

Day 5 – From Slovenia to Trieste, with Castles, Cuisine, and Coastal Romance

Bid farewell to Slovenia’s warm charms as you head to Italy, bridging two picturesque European neighbors through history and hospitality. En route, pause at Miramare Castle, a 19th-century seaside marvel that once belonged to Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian and his wife Charlotte. Let its opulent halls and wind-swept gardens reveal tales of romance and melancholy against a backdrop of the Adriatic, before tracing the border to Lokev. There, enjoy a lunch at the Michelin Plate-awarded Hisa Hrasna, where Istrian and Karst flavors come together in a flourish of cultural synergy. Upon arrival in Trieste, reveal its many layers of Slovenian, Austrian, and Italian influences with an immersive walking tour. Wander through the sweeping Piazza Unità d’Italia, past 19th-century Austro-Hungarian façades, and along the Canal Grande, ending the day in a city that feels like an heirloom of a storied past.

Day 6 –Flavors and Fortresses at Duino Castle & Colli Orientali

Greet the day perched over the Adriatic as you bask in sea breezes and storybook views at Duino Castle. Feel like a true aristocrat amid elegant salons and ornaments of a 14th-century fortress that once housed the Thurn und Taxis family and even fuelled the musings of poets like Rainer Maria Rilke. Then it’s off to get a stronghold on flavor at Colli Orientali, where among ancient vineyard-cloaked hills, a family-owned estate invites you to sample robust local wines, paired with cold cuts, cheeses, and handmade biscotti. Finally, discover the syrupy art of traditional balsamic vinegar production, tasting its depth and complexity one drop at a time.

Day 7 – Trieste to Venice with Prosecco in Hand

Ease into the day along rolling vineyards and sun-dappled hills as you make your way from Trieste to Venice on a journey that can easily be called a toast in motion. Follow the UNESCO-listed Prosecco Wine Road, where bubbly isn’t just poured, it’s celebrated. Pause for a light lunch and guided tasting, letting each glass sparkle with the flavors of the land. By the time you arrive and check into your hotel in Venice, your palate will be primed and ready for the next course in this exquisite adventure.

Day 8 – A Venetian Finale of Sights and Sounds

Have your final full day unfold like a love letter to Venice with a walking tour of its most enchanting gems. Begin in St. Mark’s Square, where domes and campaniles rise above a sea of history. Meander through tucked-away courtyards and over quaint bridges to find the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a spiraled architectural gem that blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine flair. Catch an echo of an aria in front of La Fenice Theatre, before concluding with a quintessential gondola past faded palazzos and hidden gardens, where every gentle ripple beneath you becomes a graceful farewell from the City of Canals.

Day 9 – Departure

Every great dinner ends with a fond farewell, and so too does this flavorful journey. As you say arrivederci to Italy and nasvidenje to Slovenia, you leave with memories shared over wine, laughter that echoed through ancient halls, and the taste of two cultures that came together at one table. Though the plates are cleared, the invitation remains, because when neighbors host you this well, you know it won’t be your last visit.

The post Cross Over for Dinner: A Tasteful Journey From Slovenia to Italy appeared first on Blog | Travelive.