Best Culinary Experiences in Italy

One of the most important things about the customized vacations we create for our clients is learning about your interests and passions. I recently had a couple on an anniversary trip where they enjoyed spectacular bike tours as they are avid cyclists. Others are into scenic hikes so we focus on incorporating those into their activities. It is always about you - the traveler!

In this Blog I am highlighting culinary experiences in Italy for the foodies and wine enthusiasts. There are so many fabulous experiences and we customize each one based on your preferences for specific dishes or wine varieties.

Experience Umbria – the Green Heart of Italy

Umbria is in central Italy just east of Tuscany. This spectacular area is lush, mountainous, and earthy. The gastronomy is wonderful here, specifically with its butchers and their famous salumi (fine Italian cold cuts). Umbria is Italy’s largest producer of black truffles so truffle dishes are one of their specialties. Here are some of the authentic culinary experiences you can enjoy in Umbria… Go truffle hunting with the hunter and his dogs, then enjoy the most spectacular lunch on his property. Enjoy a private cooking class focusing on Umbrian specialties. Visit a local pig farm and taste the different famous meats while hearing about their production from different types of pigs. Learn all about how olive oil is produced by visiting a local mill and, of course, indulge in tastings.

Market Visit and Cooking Class in Florence

A cooking class where tradition and storytelling are all part of the recipe. You will head out to the local market with your chef to learn all about the local specialties and purchase the ingredients for preparing your meal. Then you will head back to the chef’s kitchen where you prepare the traditional dishes. Then you will sit and enjoy the Tuscan meal with a good class of Chianti, of course.

A Farm on the Rugged Hills of the Amalfi Coast

Meet the owners of this family-owned farm / winery and enjoy a private cooking class. The multi-course meal will be prepared in their rustic kitchen. The local delicacies, the fabulous tour of the cellar and wine tastings, will all be an incredibly memorable experience. Plus, the grounds of this 18th century farm are spectacular. And, what makes it all super special is the people, they will welcome you as if you were family.

A Culinary Day in the Sicilian Countryside

This is one of the most authentic experiences you will ever have. You will visit a local village and meet the people that live in this part of Sicily. You will learn about their tastes and traditions. Meet a shepherd and farmer who breeds sheep and produces olive oil. Then you will move on to visit the town baker and pastry chef who will guide you in preparing cannoli. The day is filled with culinary experiences as you experience this local town and partake in many food tastings.

Exploring the Gastronomic Capital of Italy

The Emilia Romagna region is the gastronomic capital of Italy. Known for so many treasured foods, such as Pancetta, Prosciutto di Parma, Coppa, Parmigiano Reggiano, Tortellini, and Mortadella (to name a few). During a visit to the region, stop in Modena, known for its balsamic vinegar. Learn all about the time-honored process of making Parmigiano Reggiano at a local dairy farm. A tasting follows the tour where you can sample the Queen of Cheese in various stages of aging as it goes from a sweet, creamy cheese at 12 months to a rich and crumbly delicacy at 36 months. Then continue exploring the region and arrive in Bologna, where our guide will bring this city to life with its history and a food walking tour.

Working with Distinct Vacations in reserving at any of our preferred properties, you may have access to flexible cancellation policies and special amenities (such as a spa credit, complimentary breakfast, and room upgrades).

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