Prepare to experience a blend of Italian passions that will redefine your definitions of taste, thrill, and elegance. Explore world-renowned delicacies in Parma and Bologna, feed your need for speed in the heart of the motor valley, and soak up the meaning of true culture in the streets of Verona and across the canals of Venice.  If this itinerary doesn’t paint the perfect portrait of Italy, nothing else will!

• 3 nights in Parma
• 3 nights in Bologna
• 3 nights in Verona
• 3 nights in Venice
• Private Airport Transfers on Arrival and Departure
• Private Door-to-Door Transfers

Day 1 – Arrival

Benvenuti in Italia! Upon arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport, a private driver will be waiting to take you on a drive across the gorgeous plains of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna as you head to your hotel of choice in the heart of Parma. Once checked in, relax and enjoy your first day at leisure amid the cultured ambiance of this refined city. If the urge strikes — and it will! — savor your first taste of the region’s renowned cuisine with delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2 – Parma Walking Tour

Today, you will discover the refined charm of Parma with a guided walking tour through its rich history and stunning architecture. Glance into Emilia-Romagna’s soul, as you feel the city resonate with authentic elegance while strolling through its picturesque streets. Marvel at the Romanesque grandeur of Parma Cathedral and its stunning frescoes. Rejoice at the sight of the monumental Palazzo della Pilotta. And, of course, dive into Parma’s culinary heritage, as you explore the vibrant Piazza del Duomo and the beautiful Parco Ducale.

Day 3 – Emilia-Romagna Food Excellencies Tour

Explore the birthplace of Parmesan Cheese and Parma Ham on a scrumptious gastronomic adventure through the heart of Emilia-Romagna. Take a guided tour of a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, savoring three aged cheeses alongside fresh ricotta, a splash of Balsamic Vinegar, and a glass of Lambrusco. Unveil the art of Balsamic Vinegar production, sampling the rich flavors of 12 and 25-year-aged varieties. Conclude with a private lunch at a prosciutto and cured meats producer, tasting hand-made ricotta tortelloni, a generous selection of iconic meats with traditional “tigella” bread, and chocolate cake with mascarpone — all paired with Lambrusco wine, water, and coffee.

Day 4 – Private Transfer to Bologna and Sunset Food Tour

Following a delightful breakfast, you will meet your driver for your private transfer to Bologna, the food capital of Italy! Upon checking into your hotel of choice and taking some time to relax, unveil the city’s rich culinary landscape with an immersive sunset tour of its gastronomic specialties. Work up an appetite as you explore the historic market area and view fresh local ingredients. Enjoy an aperitivo in a local bar and visit a typical osteria, where artisanal bread, cured meats, fine cheeses, and regional wine await. Then end your experience on a sweet note, by indulging in some authentic Italian gelato.

Day 5 – Ferrari World VIP Experience

Today, you will pop the hood of Italy’s Motor Valley with an exclusive guided tour of the iconic Ferrari Museum in Maranello. Following a priority entrance, fuel up with a welcome coffee at the Ferrari Cafeteria before exploring the automotive splendor of the Enzo Ferrari Museum at your own pace. Visit the Ferrari Factory and Fiorano Track via a panoramic shuttle bus tour, and witness where some of the world’s finest automobiles spring to life. Cap off the day with a delicious lunch and beverages, all set against the backdrop of Ferrari’s enduring legacy.

Day 6 – Test Drive of Lamborghini or Ferrari  

Make this day one to remember by grabbing the wheel and revving the engine of a bonafide Italian supercar! Consult with your travel advisor on the best way to get your heart racing with a personalized test drive at either Sant’Agata Bolognese, where the first Lamborghini saw the light of day, or Maranello, where Ferrari began it storied journey. Be it Lamborghini’s golden bull or Ferrari’s prancing horse, take your pick from a wide range of pedigreed automobiles, strap in, and experience the essence of Italian luxury at its most exhilarating.

Day 7 – Private Transfer to Verona

“Heaven is here Where Juliet lives…” Today, after a lovely breakfast, a private transfer will whisk you off to Verona, the magical setting of Shakespeare’s romantic opus Romeo & Juliet. Once you have checked into your hotel of choice, enjoy your first day at leisure, wandering the spellbinding medieval alleys of a town that breathes with enchantment and echoes with the poetic words of the world’s finest wordsmith.

Day 8 – Verona Roman Heritage with Arena Visit

Travel back in time and bask in the ancient charm of Roman Verona, as it leads you on a journey through history. Feel like a gladiator as you enter the grand Arena. Pass through Porta Borsari’s archway, dating back to the 1^st century AD, and ponder the weight of time. Get lost in the beauty of the intricate mosaics of the Archaeological Museum. Witness the magnificent bridges of the Adige River weave together centuries as you stroll its banks, before hearing the faint sounds of long-forgotten performances as you take a moment at the Roman Theatre.

Day 9 – Museo Nicolis Guided Visit with Aperitif

Embrace the more contemporary wonders of Verona with a guided visit to the fascinating Museo Nicolis. Accompanied by an experienced guide, discover the artistry and ingenuity that shaped modern engineering, as you delve into a collection of artefacts that pays homage to the history of automobiles, aviation, and technology. Unveil over 200 vintage cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and aircrafts, as well as other intriguing mechanical inventions, before concluding your journey through time with a classic Italian aperitif, savoring the perfect blend of culture and relaxation.

Day 10 – Private Transfer to Venice

Today, you will meet your private driver and set off across the stunning Veneto region to the ‘Floating City’ of Venice. Upon checking into your hotel of choice, spend the rest of the day at leisure, mapping its dreamlike labyrinth of shimmering canals and hidden alleys, soaking up the vibrancy of San Marco and Dorsoduro, and basking in a lovely sunset from one of its charming bridges.

Day 11 – Venice Walking Tour with Gondola Ride 

Unveil the timeless allure of Venice as you venture on an enchanting panoramic tour of its iconic treasures. Wander across the magnificent St. Mark’s Square, reveling in its historic grandeur. Step inside the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica, and let it hypnotize you with exquisite mosaics and marbles. Feel the stately atmosphere of the opulent Doge’s Palace, the heart of Venetian power.  Take a deep breath and cross the legendary Bridge of Sighs on your way to the historic Prison’s Palace. Conclude your journey in true Venetian style — by gliding along the city’s canals in a private gondola, serenely guided by an expert gondolier.

Day 12 – Murano & Burano Tour with Sunset Wine Experience at Isola Le Vignole

Set sail on a magical journey to Murano, Italy’s heart of glassmaking. Step inside one of the island’s oldest glass factories and witness master artisans transform molten glass into exquisite works of art. Continue to Burano, a tapestry of colorful houses and the birthplace of Venetian lace. Here, lacemakers uphold a tradition dating back to the 15th century, maintaining an industry that was once a symbol of high-standing. End your journey on Isola Le Vignole, where a sunset walk through a vineyard will end in a tasting of fine local wines paired with regional delicacies, all savored with a stunning view of the Venetian lagoon.

Day 13 – Private transfer to Venice Airport

As wonderful as they were, it’s time to bid farewell to the spoils of Italy. After a filling breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to Venice Airport for your departure flight home.

The post Food, Motors & Canals: Veneto & Emilia-Romagna Luxury Experience appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Athens, Venice, Verona, Lake Como

Why settle for ordinary when you can cruise in style with a private tour? At Travelive, we’re all about crafting adventures tailored to you even during a cruise! Picture yourself diving into each destination like a local, uncovering historic gems and secret spots along the way. With our private tours, you’re not just sightseeing, you’re living the dream, making every shore excursion a memory to treasure forever!

• 3 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Athens
• 1 Night Luxury Accommodation in Venice
• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Verona
• 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation in Lake Como
• Athens walking discovery tour
• Sunset tour of Cape Sounio and Athens Riviera
• Single-day cruise – Boat tour to Murano and San Francesco del Deserto Islands
• Verona walking tour with Arena visit
• Tour to Villa Avreadi and olive oil tasting
• Day trip to Lake Garda
• Walking tour of Como
• Single-day cruise – Boat tour of Lake Como
• Tour to Lugano
• Transfers
• Breakfast Daily

Itinerary

Day 1 -Welcome to Athens

Welcome to Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. Athens is a vibrant city that’s at once ancient and modern, classic, and constantly evolving. From its rich historical heritage along with the landmark Acropolis to hip and trendy bars to high-end boutiques and multicultural cuisine, Athens has it all. You will be picked up from Athens International Airport by your private driver and transferred to your luxury hotel. Enjoy your afternoon and evening exploring the historic neighborhood of Plaka or enjoying a leisurely stroll along Dionysiou Aeropagitou, a pedestrianized street that is the longest walkway in Athens and is akin to walking along a living open-air museum. Ask your Travelive expert for recommendations of their favorite restaurants, cafes, and entertainment.

Day 2- Athens walking discovery tour

Begin your journey at the renowned Acropolis Museum, showcasing almost 4,000 artifacts that offer a vivid glimpse into Ancient Greece’s daily life. Enjoy a breathtaking Acropolis view from the museum’s terrace. Ascend to the Acropolis hill via the iconic gates of Propylaea, a classical antiquity symbol. Uncover the Parthenon’s magnificence and its influence on contemporary history. Conclude with a leisurely walk through Plaka’s historic streets and a visit to Syntagma Square’s Parliament Building, appreciating Athens’ rich history and architectural wonders.

Day 3 – Sunset tour of Cape Sounio and Athens Riviera

Experience the breathtaking allure of Athens’ magnificent coastline and an exquisite Greek temple that is nothing short of splendid! This adventure revolves around Athens’ profound connection with the sea, guiding you through the illustrious Athens Riviera. Your journey culminates at the mesmerizing Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. As the day transitions into the evening, relish the dramatic sunset over Cape Sounion, a sight to behold. Explore the wonders of Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural spa with perpetually warm waters, and delve into the architectural marvel of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Enjoy beachfront bliss along the city’s favored coastline and encounter an ancient temple that weaves tales of history and grandeur.

Day 4- Athens City to Piraeus Port transfer

Today you will meet your driver and enjoy a relaxing drive to Piraeus port to continue your cruise.

Day 5- Venice

Venice is one of the most romantic destinations, not only in Italy but throughout Europe. Gondola rides down the Grand Canal passing through palaces, waterfront palazzos, and churches define the romantic ambiance the city is known for. Complete your top destination in Italy with a visit to an art gallery or a performance at the Opera.

Day 6 -Boat tour to Murano and San Francesco del Deserto Islands

Discover the picturesque islands in the Venice Lagoon during this exciting tour. Board the Bora cruiser to reach the island of Murano passing by the Arsenale or Cannaregio district. Once you arrive in Murano, you will experience the island’s renowned art of glass blowing. The master craftsmen will show you how to create incredible masterpieces made from glass right in front of your eyes. You will then continue to San Francesco del Deserto island. It is recognizable by a line of cypress trees and is located in the middle of the lagoon between Burano and Sant’Erasmo. Since 1227 it has housed a friary founded by San Francesco d’Assisi on his way back from the Holy Land. It is here that the “Miracle of the Birds” took place. The tour starts from the little church and small cloister and finishes with a stroll in the beautiful garden where you can see Burano, a little island world-famous for pillow laces and colored houses.

Day 7 – Venice to Verona transfer and Walking tour with Arena visit

A relaxing scenic drive will take you to the beautiful city of Verona. In the afternoon you will enjoy a walking tour of the city.

Explore Verona beyond Romeo and Juliet on a guided tour revealing its rich history and architectural marvels. From the ancient Arena, a Roman relic hosting operatic performances, to the grand Scaliger Tombs exemplifying Gothic architecture, each landmark captivates you with its history. Wander through Piazza delle Erbe, where a fountain constructed from Roman ruins stands as a testament to the city’s past. Discover the hidden gem of St. Anastasia’s Basilica, a Gothic masterpiece, before concluding your journey at the Grand Arena, a majestic Roman amphitheater echoing centuries of history.

Day 8 – Tour to Villa Avreadi and Olive oil tasting

Nestled amidst Verona’s picturesque vineyards and olive groves lies Villa Arvedi, a stunning example of Venetian architecture that flourished during the Republic of Venice’s reign in the 14th century. Originally built in the 12th century, the villa underwent extensive renovations in the 17th century, transforming it into the elegant residence you see today, adorned with frescoes and graced by a Baroque church in its courtyard. After exploring the villa, enjoy a tasting of local olive oil at a nearby farm.

Villa Arvedi is situated in the surroundings of Verona, in a splendid area of vineyards and olive trees, and is a fine example of Venetian Villa, that is a kind of building that spread in the area controlled by the Republic of Venice from the 14th century. At the time, noble families from Venice, longing for the countryside that their city lacked, started to settle on the mainland and build villas around which flourishing estates and gorgeous gardens developed. The core of Villa Arvedi dates to the 12th century, but huge refurbishments in the 17th made it the exquisite residence that you will visit today, with interiors bedecked with frescoes and the courtyard featuring a Baroque church. Once the visit to the villa is over, you will reach a nearby farm for a tasting of local olive oil.

Day 9 – Day trip to Lake Garda

The quaint town of Sirmione is situated on a little peninsula, renowned for its thermal waters. The area offers a unique tranquility, and an impressive number of interesting things to see. Not even the famous Maria Callas could resist Sirmione. During the fifties, she frequently visited the town and was enchanted by the beauty and quietness of the place as well as the discretion of its inhabitants and she elected Sirmione as her retreat. Follow your experienced guide for a relaxing stroll along the tiny alleys of the center, and then further on, where shops and bustle give way to residential neighborhoods surrounded by parks and gardens. Your walk will take you to the Grotte di Catullo, the remains of a Roman villa the visit of which will give you a good insight into the history of the area and some gorgeous views of the lake. A boat tour along the shore, the island of Garda, and the evocative Romantic Coast will give you the chance to enjoy some gorgeous views. You can also disembark at Punta San Vigilio and have a little stroll in the park or enjoy an aperitif, before meeting there your driver for a ride back to the hotel.

Day 10 – Verona to Lake Como transfer and Walking tour of Como

After breakfast, you will meet your experienced driver and enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Como. Once you arrive, you will meet your experienced guide for a relaxing tour.

Renowned for the spectacular scenery it offers on its namesake lake, Como is also rich in history and vestiges of the past. Your guide will show you Como’s peculiarity: despite being a small city, it hosts buildings belonging to all historical periods: you will see a medieval portico, Renaissance buildings, Baroque churches, examples of Fascist architecture, and a contemporary sculpture dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, born in Como in the 18th century. You will have some time to stroll around on your own, before meeting your guide again and reaching Brunate. From this quaint village on the hilltop, you will enjoy an amazing view of the lake and the Alps beyond it.

Day 11 – Boat your of Lake Como

Discover Lake Como the best way possible – on board a private boat accompanied by an English-speaking skipper and a professional guide at your disposal. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the western side of the lake, known as the “noble wing”, because of the presence of many grand Villas of the Italian nobility, most of which have now been bought by wealthy industrialists or movie stars. Arrive in Bellagio for a one-hour stop and return to Como.

Day 12 – Tour to Lugano

Embarking from picturesque Lake Como, a short drive brings you to Ticino, the Italian Canton. Amidst its charming streets, indulge in Swiss delights—world-famous chocolates and duty-free perfumes await. Explore boutiques showcasing high-end watch brands, offering a chance to acquire a timeless treasure. In Ticino, beauty and luxury intertwine, promising a day of sophisticated indulgence amidst scenic splendor.

Day 13- Departure

As your adventure comes to an end, filled with cherished memories and numerous photographs, it’s time to bid farewell. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and ensure you reach the airport in time for your flight back home.

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