As you can imagine, it’s pretty epic. Your regular Tuesday can find them crafting anything from sparkling honeymoons in the Cyclades to legendary group adventures across the Peloponnese; and all of this from our local offices in Athens!

That can certainly leave you quite hungry; especially when browsing Travelive’s delicious food tours. So, it’s only right that now and then our team try one of these amazing culinary experiences themselves, to ensure that it’s as enticing as could be, and grab a well-deserved lunch while they’re at it!

And this is exactly what our Greek team did, as they followed Greece’s mythical flavors through the heart of its iconic capital, on a unique culinary experience!

A Metropolitan Feast

Athens is a city that feeds the senses long before it feeds the appetite. A mosaic of ancient traditions and contemporary creativity, Greece’s capital is home to a culinary landscape as diverse as its storied neighborhoods. From bakery fronts piled high with freshly made koulouria (think our version of the bagel) to bustling open-air markets with an array of local delicacies, Athens offers flavorful temptations at every corner. Every street extends an invitation to taste a piece of the city’s vibrant soul. And it was one that our Greece by Travelive team happily (and hungrily) accepted.

Liquid Gold — Artisanal Treasures in the Heart of the City

No exploration of Greek cuisine would be complete without a tribute to its most sacred ingredient: olive oil. After meeting their guide in the vibrant Monastiraki Square, the team slipped into a charming boutique dedicated to showcasing Greece’s most treasured natural products.

There, amid shelves lined with small-batch goods from modest producers across Greece, their host took them on a flavorsome journey through some of the country’s finest extra virgin olive oils. Fruity, peppery, grassy, silky… each distinct olive oil revealed something different about the soil, altitude, and age-old techniques that shaped it.

What began as a tasting quickly became a revelation of how Greece’s simplest ingredients carry centuries of culture, care, and craftsmanship. And it all paired delightfully with cheese and a local spirit that’ll have you saying opa!

Sweet Memories — An Unforgettable Slice of Bougatsa

Next up, the team was in for a treat. Following the scent of freshly baked goods, they were led to a beloved pastry shop in Psiri, a dynamic neighborhood not far from the Ancient Agora. There, a taste of sweet tradition awaited in the form of bougatsa (think of a custard-filled strudel), Greece’s renowned delight and any sweet tooth’s kryptonite.

Made from flaky handmade phyllo wrapped around warm custard infused with vanilla, this mouthwatering indulgence had our entire team smiling from the first bite.

But this wasn’t just dessert. It was Greek comfort food at its finest: humble, irresistible, and deeply satisfying; something that could be equally enjoyed by gods and mortals alike.

The Grand Finale — A Feast of Meze-Like Delicacies

The final stop on our team’s culinary adventure brought them to a century-old taverna tucked beside the historic Varvakios Market, in a storied corner of the city where streets still bear the names of ancient playwrights.

This is where our team gathered for their meze-style finale: an abundant spread of traditional plates that paid homage to the spirit of Athens. Warm dips, slow-cooked delicacies, grilled vegetables, vibrant salads, and freshly prepared seafood arrived in succession, each capturing the rustic charm and soulful flavors of Greek cuisine.

Between the music, the laughter, and the endless flow of flavors, lunch quickly transformed into the kind of unforgettable experience that defines Greek hospitality. It was soulful, abundant, and unapologetically authentic; the perfect crescendo to a day spent savoring the city’s culinary heartbeat.

Why This Tour Belongs in Every Traveler’s Journey

This Athenian food tour gave our team far more than a delicious afternoon; it literally served up this iconic city’s essence on a plate. From olive oil insights to traditional pastries and time-honored recipes of a historic taverna, it captured the flavors, stories, and character of Athens in a single, seamless experience.

For travel advisors, it’s an easy and impactful addition to any itinerary. Engaging, immersive, and rich in local character, this tour helps travelers connect with Athens on a deeper, more memorable level. A perfect blend of culture and cuisine, it’s an experience they’ll savor long after it ends. And our team can vouch for that!

Want to make sure your clients have an authentic taste of Greece? Then have this, or one of Greece by Travelive’s other must-try food experiences, take them on a truly unforgettable journey of flavor!

The post Epic Flavors: The Greek Team Dives Deep into Athens’ Food Scene appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

When you land in a destination like Madeira, it’s hard to imagine something that can top the eye candy of its scenic delight. That is, of course, until you come across the treats of its gastronomic landscape. A direct extension of its breathtaking nature and unique culture, every plateful in Madeira is a heart full of soul. And with Travelive, your clients are guaranteed to ask for a second serving.

The Tastes of Madeira

The perfect reflection of its unique character, Madeira’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. Rustic, coastal, tropical, and deeply communal, each dish symbolizes a balance between land and sea, tradition and innovation. From sizzling skewers cooked over open flame to the unexpected pairing of fish and fruit, here are five essential flavors that encapsulate Madeira’s essence.

Espetada Madeirense (Beef Skewers)

• What it is: Large pieces of beef rubbed with garlic, salt, and bay leaves, skewered on a laurel stick, and grilled over open flames. Traditionally paired with bolo do caco (flatbread with garlic butter); but more on that later.
• Why it’s iconic: Often served at outdoor gatherings, with the smoky aroma mingling in the air, this rustic dish truly captures Madeira’s communal spirit.

Bolo do Caco (Sweet Potato Flatbread)

• What it is: A round, slightly chewy bread made with sweet potato flour, cooked on a hot basalt stone slab.
• Why it’s iconic: Served warm with garlic butter, it’s a staple side dish that accompanies almost every meal, from seafood to skewers.

Lapas Grelhadas (Grilled Limpets)

• What it is: Fresh limpets (a type of mollusk) grilled in their shells with garlic, butter, and lemon.
• Why it’s iconic: A true taste of the Atlantic, usually enjoyed seaside with a cold beer or a glass of poncha, Madeira’s citrusy sugarcane rum cocktail.

Espada com Banana (Black Scabbardfish with Banana)

• What it is: A delicate deep-sea fish fillet lightly fried and topped with caramelized banana, often served with passion fruit sauce.
• Why it’s iconic: It may sound unusual, but the sweet-and-savory pairing perfectly reflects Madeira’s tropical-meets-Atlantic identity; and goes perfectly with some Verdelho, a quintessential Madeiran wine.

Picado (Beef Sharing Dish)

• What it is: Bite-sized cubes of beef sautéed with garlic, wine, and herbs, served on a communal platter over French fries.
• Why it’s iconic: This dish is all about conviviality. Everyone gathers around with forks in hand, making it as much a social ritual as a meal.

Beyond the Plate — A Cultural Journey

Knives and forks will only get you so far, but a true Madeiran culinary experience can offer travelers a glimpse of unbridled authenticity, meaning, and cultural connection. And here are a couple that will do so with every scrumptious bite.

• Experience Madeira Like a Local — Cooking in the Countryside

Imagine a peaceful countryside estate, where banana trees sway in the breeze and the scent of herbs lingers in the air. This is where you shall indulge in one of Madeira’s most intimate and delicious culinary experiences: a private cooking session hosted by a Madeiran chef in a charming rural home.

More than just slicing and dicing, this is about embracing the rhythm of island life, hearing personal stories while preparing local favorites like espada com banana or milho frito, and enjoying the moment as if you were visiting a friend’s kitchen. This isn’t cooking; this is living.

• Market Mornings & Private Show Cooking

Start the day at Madeira’s vibrant central market, where stalls overflow with rainbow-colored fruit and the day’s catch glistens on ice. Guided by a local chef who knows every corner and every flavor, handpick ingredients that will soon star on your plate, before retreating to a private kitchen to watch them turn into culinary gems during a live show cooking experience. As garlic sizzles, wine splashes, and secrets of Madeiran cuisine are revealed, let the scents and tastes take you on a journey through the island’s signature warmth, before savoring it firsthand.

More Than Flavor

In Madeira, the flavors don’t just fill your plate; they fill your heart. Exotic, wholesome, and most of all satisfying, this is where every meal becomes a memory. And with Travelive, your clients are guaranteed to make it an everlasting one. So, come hungry, leave inspired, and carry a little taste of Madeira with you far beyond its shores.

The post A Hearty Serving of Madeira: Discovering an Island Through its Culinary Traditions appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

What’s so Special About Morocco’s Culinary Scene?

To quote a recent traveler: “The flavors of Morocco are as vibrant as its markets!” A culinary melting pot with influences from Arabic, Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean cuisines, Morocco is a flavorsome tapestry of appetizing offerings. Whether you’re mastering a recipe in a riad or dining in a mountain retreat, you will be certain to find a world of tempting dishes, and below you can discover a few that have put this kingdom of flavor on the gastronomic map.

Tagine

A mainstay of Moroccan cuisine, Tagine’s namesake lies in its unusual cooking appliance — a cone-shaped clay pot that allows it to trap moisture from the hot steam and ensure that everything is cooked to perfection. The result is a hearty and colorful stew of succulent meat, vegetables, and spices that evokes both sweet and savory delight.

Couscous

What’s that common quip? A food so good they named it twice? Possibly the most globally recognized culinary offering of Moroccan origin, these fluffy, cutely named granules of semolina have come to be widely regarded as the country’s national dish, leading it to be even included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

Pastilla (or Bastilla)

Everyone wants a piece of the pie — and you’ll definitely want a slice of this one. Both sweet and savory in nature, Pastilla is made up of crispy layers of pastry and is known for its flavorsome meat filling. Powdered with sugar and cinnamon, it offers a curious blend of textures and flavors that work on a magical level to deliver an incredible array of satisfaction.

Zaalouk

If you fancy something on the lighter side Zaalouk is a mighty little side dish/dip that is a beloved staple across the entire country. Consisting of grilled eggplant and tomatoes seasoned with garlic, cumin, and paprika, the first taste of Zaalouk’s smoky piquancy will immediately justify its popularity.

Harira

Even though Morocco’s temperatures tend to be on the warmer side — to put it mildly — this doesn’t stop its people from enjoying a nice, hot bowl of soup. Often served during Ramadan to break the fast, Harira is a robust, wholesome offering that will charm you with its hypnotic fragrance and indulge you with its unforgettable taste.

Exclusive Culinary Experiences

• Private Cooking Classes in Historic Riads
  Become a part of Moroccan culinary tradition with personalized cooking classes set in the enchanting courtyards of authentic riads. With the guidance of an experienced local chef, learn the secrets behind classic Moroccan dishes surrounded by the mesmerizing aroma of indigenous spices and fresh herbs.

• Guided Spice Market Tours
  Uncover a world of culture and flavor on a sensory journey through the vibrant souks of Marrakech or Fez. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, learn to distinguish ras el hanout blends, discover the healing powers of local herbs, and select the perfect spices to take home — turning every future meal into a fragrant reminder of Morocco.

• Private Dinners in the Atlas Mountains
  Trade city lights for stars with a private Berber-style dinner in the High Atlas Mountains. Accompanied by the ancient allure of your untamed surroundings, indulge in age-old recipes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients while savoring panoramic views and the kind of stillness that makes flavors even more profound.

• Gourmet Evenings in Hidden Courtyard
  Experience the intersection of old-world charm and refined dining in secluded riad courtyards. Whether it’s a curated tasting menu or a traditional multi-course Moroccan feast, these candlelit evenings are all about savoring every bite like a true Moroccan in the most unforgettable surroundings.

• Food Tour Through Marrakech’s Medina
  Wind through the storied alleys of Marrakech and uncover its secrets one bite at a time as you follow an experienced guide on a scrumptious food tour that unveil some of the city’s most desired and authentic delicacies — all paired with tales of a culinary heritage that spans centuries.

Bringing Morocco to the Table

An essential part of its unmistakable charm, every Moroccan culinary creation is a piece in the colorful mosaic of its esoteric allure — all deserving to be experienced in the most immersive way possible. With Travelive, your clients will go beyond the plate, diving into the heart of Moroccan culture through its bold flavors and timeless traditions. They won’t just visit Morocco — they’ll live it, savor it, and carry its flavors with them long after the last bite.

The post A Kingdom of Flavor: Culinary Journeys Across Morocco appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Orange Groves and Beyond — Valencia’s Unique Allure

While it may be the ultimate place to meet your daily needs for sunshine and Vitamin C, Spain’s orange capital goes beyond infusing every moment of your stay with the sweet fragrance of its renowned export. A unique point where Spain’s vibrant heritage is elevated by modern esthetics and fresh Mediterranean breeze, this is that hidden corner of a country where its art, cuisine, and culture beat with a whole other rhythm. Through its golden beaches, vibrant essence, and avant-garde architecture, Valencia shines as a seamless fusion of old-world charm and modern sophistication — and the experiences below are testament to that.

Culinary Exploration by the Coast

Being the birthplace of Spain’s iconic Paella should be enough to grant Valencia a spot of any foodie’s wish list. And what better way to honor the city’s rich culinary legacy than by indulging in a private experience that brings its flavors to life amid a setting of pure Mediterranean bliss. Learn the secrets of turning the freshest ingredients into Spain’s claims to gastronomic fame as you delight your palette in celebrated dishes paired with the finest regional wines.

Nature Escape in Albufera Park

Valencia may show a whole other side of Spain, but there is also a whole other side to Valencia. Uncover the full extent of the region’s singular natural beauty and culinary traditions with a private experience across the serene landscapes of Albufera Natural Park, a watery wonderland just south of the city, where Valencia’s gastronomic roots blossom amid tranquil lagoons and rice paddies that have sustained the region for centuries.

Luxury Sailing on the Mediterranean

‘Sailing’ and the ‘Mediterranean’ tend to go hand in hand — and its no different in Valencia. Infuse your exploration of this unique Spanish gem with some classic coastal indulgence by stepping aboard a private yacht and letting the city’s coastline show off its wonders. Sparked by the glint of the sun on endless azure, revel in views of endless sandy stretches as you savor gourmet delights and recline on deck with a glass of crisp cava to compliment the scenery.

Private Tour of the City of Arts and Sciences

Witness Spain’s inspiring essence converge with contemporary innovation on a private tour of Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences — a modernist masterpiece that stands as a dynamic counterpart to the city’s quintessential heritage. Unveil the futuristic wonders of the complex with an experienced guide as you move between its gleaming white curves and shimmering pools, before capping off with a rooftop wine tasting overlooking the skyline, where each sip feels like a toast to the city’s bold embrace of the avant-garde.

A Citrus-Infused Escape

Valencia’s identity as Spain’s “orange capital” is more than just a nickname — it’s a title earned through generations of citrus cultivation; and no trip to the city is complete without diving into the origins of its world-famous agricultural jewel. Venture beyond the orange trees adorning its many streets and find yourself amid the fragrant orange groves in the golden glow of a Valencian afternoon as you uncover its heart and soul with an outdoor experience that celebrates its cherished legacy.

Taste of the Historic Quarter

Journey through Valencia’s history one flavor at a time as you take to the streets of its charming old quarter. Follow an experienced guide through intimate plazas, Gothic facades, and quaint, tucked-away taverns. Marvel at landmarks like the UNESCO-listed La Lonja de la Seda and reveal the treasures of the iconic Central Market — Europe’s largest fresh food market, where domed ceilings and stained glass frame a vibrant world of spices, seafood, and local specialties. From elevated tapas to rare local vintages, this is an immersive, sensory celebration of Valencia’s living, breathing heritage.

A Spanish Gem in a League of its Own

In a land known for its passion, color, and rhythm, Valencia quietly sings its own tune — vibrant yet unassuming, innovative yet deeply rooted. It doesn’t shout for attention; it simply enchants, one citrus-scented breeze at a time, and invites you to slow down and savor something equal parts indulgent, soulful, and sunlit. For those seeking something refreshingly different, Valencia is no longer Spain’s best-kept secret — it’s your next unforgettable escape, waiting to be discovered with Travelive!

The post Uncover the Glow of Valencia: Spain’s Rising Star appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Prepare for a plateful of delicious adventures with a tour of Northern Spain’s rich tapestry of flavors. From the acclaimed wines of Rioja and tasty pintxos in San Sebastián, to the seafood wonders of Galicia, this journey is an invitation to experience Spain’s illustrious gastronomy through its hidden treasures and timeless traditions.

• Arrival at Bilbao Airport
• 3 nights in Rioja (Logroño)
• 3 nights in San Sebastián
• 1 Night in Oviedo
• 3 nights in Galicia (Santiago de Compostela)
• Departure from Santiago de Compostela Airport
• Private Rioja Wine Tour
• Private Pintxos Tour in San Sebastián
• Private Cooking Class in San Sebastián (Optional)
• Private Albariño Wine and Seafood Tour in Rías Baixas
• Private Walking Tour of Santiago de Compostela
• Private Transfers
• Business Class Rail Tickets

Day 1 – Arrival in Bilbao & Transfer to Rioja

Welcome to Spain! After landing at Bilbao Airport, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel of choice in Logroño, the capital of Spain’s Rioja region, and the gateway to some of the finest wines in the world! After checking in, spend the day at leisure, relaxing at your boutique hotel or exploring Logroño’s picturesque streets and sampling some local gastronomy.

Day 2 – Private Rioja Wine Tour

Today you will explore the heart of Rioja, the crown jewel of Spain’s viticultural landscape. On a guided tour of its most respected wineries, you will learn about the region’s unique terroir and esteemed blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. After witnessing the magic that brings Rioja’s wines world-wide fame, enjoy tastings of Reserva and Gran Reserva wines, and discover why, in Rioja, you can always bet on red!

Day 3 – Private Walking Tour of Logroño or Olive Oil Tasting Tour

After a scrumptious breakfast, join your private guide for a tour of Logroño’s enchanting Old Town. Wander amidst charming streets, lively tapas bars, and local markets, uncovering the city’s delightful blend of historic allure and culinary enticement. Alternatively, uncover the region’s agricultural traditions with an optional visit to a nearby olive oil estate, where you will have an opportunity to sample fragrant, premium olive oils and delve into their enlightening cultivation methods.

Day 4 – Transfer to San Sebastián

Today, a private transfer will whisk you off to your luxury hotel in San Sebastián, the coastal gem of the Basque Country and a true haven for the adventurous palette. After settling into your luxury hotel, enjoy the rest of the day exploring the city’s stunning promenade, sandy beaches, and reveling in its refreshing cosmopolitan essence.

Day 5 – Private Pintxos Tour

Don’t fill up on breakfast, because today you will be introduced to a delicious Basque Country specialty by the name of pintxos — delightful small snacks typically served on a piece of fresh bread. Granting you an authentic taste of San Sebastián, this private tour will take you to local bars in the quaint Old Town, where you can savor these bite-sized delicacies paired with local wines as you get a genuine glimpse into pintxos culture and its social aspects.

Day 6 – Day at Leisure or Cooking Class

Take this day to relax one of San Sebastián’s pristine beaches, relishing in their golden sands and calm, turquoise waters. Alternatively, venture deeper into Basque gastronomy with an optional Basque cooking class, where you can master local recipes and techniques, and uncover the secrets behind your newly discovered flavors.

Day 7 – Transfer to Oviedo with Stop and Visit of Bilbao

After breakfast, you a private driver will meet you for your transfer to Oviedo. Along your way, stop and visit Bilbao, a vibrant city where tradition and modernity intertwine for an artful display of culture and heritage. Wander through the charming Casco Viejo, Bilbao’s historic old town, embrace riverside promenades, lush parks, and impressive bridges, before resuming your journey filled with plenty of inspiration. Once in Oviedo, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day a leisure.

Day 8 – City Tour of Oviedo and Transfer to Galicia

Begin you day with private guided tour of Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, known for its respectable dining scene and cider culture — particularly its unique pouring rituals. Upon soaking up the town’s charming blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty, a private transfer will take you to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city at leisure.

Day 9 – Private Albariño Wine & Seafood Tour

Dive headfirst into Galicia’s sea of exceptional flavors with a private full-day tour to of the Rías Baixas region. Nestled along Spain’s rugged Galician coast, Rías Baixas region is a paradise for seafood and wine enthusiasts, offering mouthwatering opportunities to pair freshly caught Mediterranean bounty with its famous, crisp and aromatic white Albariño wine. Visit wineries and enjoy a seafood lunch by the sea for a truly delicious and authentic experience.

Day 10 – Private Walking Tour of Santiago de Compostela

Today, you will take to the medieval streets of Santiago de Compostela on a private guided tour that will unveil its its rich history and authentic atmosphere. Wander through its cobblestone streets, exploring hidden courtyards and picturesque plazas. Then head to the stunning Camino de Santiago Cathedral, a beacon of spiritual significance that draws pilgrims from around the world. Offering a unique blend of tradition and architectural excellence, a day in Santiago de Compostela is a genuine treasure of Spanish heritage.

Day 11 – Departure from Santiago Airport

Now that you’ve made plenty of delicious memories across Northern Spain, it is time to take them home. After check-out, your driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Santiago Airport for your departure.

The post Northern Spain Culinary & Wine Journey appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Grab a glass and prepare for a journey of true winemaking discovery! Step beyond the rolling hills of Tuscany and uncover the picturesque beauty and unique winemaking heritage of some of Italy finest unsung viticultural regions. From the majestic landscapes and rich flavors of Piedmont to the historical cellars of Umbria and the enduring, centuries-old cultivating traditions of Latium, this off-the-beaten-path journey is guaranteed to reveal a side of Italy’s winemaking legacy that you’ve never seen.

• Arrival in Turin or Milan Airport
• 4 nights in Piedmont countryside
• 4 nights in Umbria countryside
• 3 nights in Latium Countryside or Coast
• Departure from Rome airport
• Private Langhe & Barbaresco Wine Tour
• Private Barolo Wine Tour
• Private Wine Tasting Experience at Monte Vibiano
• Etruscan Caves Visit and Wine Tasting in Orvieto Countryside
• Private Tour to Latium Wineries and Anagni
• Private Truffle Hunting Experience in Piedmont (Optional)
• Private Day Trip to Perugia and/or Assisi (Optional)
• Private Day Trip to Rome (Optional)
• Private Transfers
• Business Class Rail Tickets

Day 1 – Arrival

Welcome to Italy! Upon your arrival in Milan Malpensa or Turin Airport, a private driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel of choice the Piedmont countryside, a paradise of scenic splendor and winemaking tradition. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, soaking up the beauty of endless rolling hills and magnificent Italian alps. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner coupled with you first glass of authentic Italian wine, adding to the tasteful anticipation of your adventure.  

Day 2 – Private Langhe & Barbaresco Wine Tour

Following a delightful breakfast, your driver and guide will meet you at the hotel and whisk you off to the charming heart of Piedmont, where wavelike hills, timeless villages, and world-renowned vineyards will be waiting to spoil you with sights and exclusive tastings. Revel in the boundless allure of the Langhe region, home to the celebrated Barbaresco wine, and visit family-owned wineries to become immersed in traditional winemaking methods as you indulge in the rich flavors of these iconic Nebbiolo-based wines.

Day 3 – Private Barolo Wine Tour

Today, you will come face-to-face with viticultural royalty, as you journey through Barolo, home of the “King of Wines”. Visiting prestigious wineries sprinkled across the magical landscapes of the region, you will uncover the rich history and noble craftsmanship behind Barolo’s kingly wines and learn from expert winemakers about the unique terroir that provides their regal flavor. Complemented by the stately scenery and enlightening insight, savor private tastings of this bold, complex red made from Nebbiolo grapes and rejoice in its unforgettable character.

Day 4 – Day at leisure or Truffle Hunting Tour

Wake up amidst the mesmerizing beauty of Piedmont’s winding hills and spend this day at leisure, enjoying the amenities and facilities of your hotel of choice. Alternatively, you may join skilled truffle hunters and their trained dogs to venture through the region’s enchanting forests on a unique truffle hunting experience. Upon harvesting these prized delicacies, you will put them to delicious use in a hands-on cooking class, where you will learn to prepare traditional Piedmontese dishes flavored with your bounty.

Day 5 – Transfer to Umbria

Following a delightful breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the Turin train station, where you will board a high-speed direct train to Rome. Once in Rome, another seamless private transfer will take you to the storybook setting of Umbria’s countryside, where you will check into your hotel of choice and enjoy you first day at leisure, basking in the glorious natural gifts of Tuscany’s little sister.

Day 6 – Private Wine Tasting Experience in Monte Vibiano

Today, you will embark on a magical winetasting adventure to the vineyards of Monte Vibiano, in the quaint village of Monte Vibiano Vecchio. Step back in time as you find yourself within a charming hamlet of 18 residents and head to an authentic chateau, who’s gorgeous 40-hectare estate provides a home to such indigenous grape varieties as Sagrantino, Sangiovese, Grechetto, and Trebbiano. Let the fairytale surroundings of Umbria add notes of pristine beauty to every glass as you savor the winery’s varieties on their panoramic terrace, while local food from nearby markets perfectly complements your experience.

Day 7 – Etruscan Caves Visit and Wine Tasting

After meeting your private driver at your hotel, you will traverse the horizons of the Umbrian hills, reveling in their perpetual luster before reaching the countryside of Orvieto, an enigmatic medieval town perched on a volcanic hill. Once there, descend into the historical cellar of an Umbrian estate outside the city and reveal the connection between ancient civilizations and winemaking. Finish your tour with a unique wine-tasting at the mansion, where you will sample the renowned Orvieto Classico, whose recipe was rescued from obscurity by enlightened vintners and the proprietors of Locanda Palazzone.

Day 8 – Day at leisure or Private Day Trip to Perugia and/or Assisi

Take this day and enjoy the relaxing ambience of your hotel in the delightful Umbrian countryside or continue your exploration of Italy’s wonders with a private tour of Perugia and/or Assisi. Choose between Perugia, the capital of Umbria, an artistic city that captivates with its medieval atmosphere winding streets, and vibrant piazzas, or the serene Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage site known worldwide as a pilgrimage destination and the home of the enthralling Basilica of St. Francis. If struggling to choose, spend the day embracing the unique charms of both!

Day 9 – Private Transfer to Latium

Following a splendid breakfast, your private driver will take you to your hotel of choice in Latium, where ancient history and vibrant modernity converge in the heart of Italy. Whether you find yourself nestled in the picturesque countryside or facing the blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, check into your accommodation and enjoy your first day at leisure, soaking up the unique atmosphere and eternal allure of the region.

Day 10 – Private Tour to Latium Wineries and Anagni

Today, you will unveil one of Italy’s lesser known, but nonetheless lustrous gems. After meeting your private driver at your hotel, you will pay a visit to the 3,000-year-old village of Cori, where, amidst historic, arcane walls, the Carpineti wine estate awaits. Here, you will learn about its renowned Nero Buono grape, a rare and challenging variety that relies on biodynamic farming. Your journey will then take you to medieval times, as you continue to the atmospheric town of Anagni, known as the “City of the Popes”, before concluding at a winery in Piglio, tasting the robust Cesanese wine, paired with local charcuterie

Day 11 – Day at Leisure or Rome Private Tour

Spend your last day in Italy at leisure, enjoying the romantic ambiance and authentic essence of Latium. Alternatively, take advantage of your proximity to the Eternal City and enjoy a day trip with a guided visit of Rome’s main sights.

Day 12 – Departure

Now that you’ve discovered Italy’s hidden winemaking gems, it’s time to say goodbye to the vineyards. After check-out, your driver will meet you at the hotel for your transfer to Rome Airport, where you will catch your flight home.

The post Not Only Tuscany: Off-the-Beaten-Path Italy Wine Tour appeared first on Blog | Travelive.