Day 1: Bologna Airport, Bologna

Sunday, April 26

Welcome! There will be one transfer provided by shuttle from the Bologna Airport* to the hotel in Bologna if you arrive by 12 p.m. local time. If you arrive later than 12 p.m. local time to the Bologna Airport, you will need to arrange transportation to the hotel (approximately a 30-minute drive time). After you settle into the hotel in Bologna where you’ll have a two-night stay, there will be time to relax or explore prior to a group dinner at 8 p.m. *Please note that airfare is not included in trip cost. You will need to book your own flights.

Day 2: Bologna

Monday, April 27

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Bologna, one of our favorite food cities in the world. A special lunch will be arranged for the group at a historic food emporium located in the center of Bologna, giving you a taste of the region’s cuisine. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

Day 3: Bologna, Maranello, Pavullo nel Frignano, Parma

Tuesday, April 28

Not only is this region of Italy known for its great food, but it’s also renowned for its fast cars! After breakfast at the hotel, luggage will be collected and you’ll head to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. If you are looking to get behind the wheel for a test drive, you won’t be alone! We’ll then head to Pavullo nel Frignano to visit the wonderful family who produces our Parmigiano-Reggiano for a behind-the-scenes tour and a tasting lunch. You’ll then travel to our next hotel in Parma for a three-night stay. Enjoy the evening on your own.

Day 4: Parma, Montecchio, Parma

Wednesday, April 29

Take the morning to explore or enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Mid-morning, private transportation is arranged to whisk you to a tasting lunch at a wine producer in Montecchio. Later in the afternoon, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Parma, a city brimming with cultural beauties and good food to be enjoyed. Marvel at all Parma has to offer, including a stop at a local market. That evening, you’ll dine with the group for a slow food Italian dinner near Piazza Duomo.

Day 5: Parma, Langhirano, Parma

Thursday, April 30

After breakfast, get ready to travel with the group to Langhirano, a town renowned for its Prosciutto di Parma. We’ll visit with an artisan producer for a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting lunch on site. Afterwards, enjoy your last evening in Parma soaking in the sights and flavors.

Day 6: Parma, Castelvetro, Balze

Friday, May 1

After breakfast, we’ll check out and depart to the ancient village of Castelvetro (about one hour away), where many of Emilia’s food and wine are produced. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet with an artisan producer and sit down to a gourmet meal before we make our way to Balze. In Balze, you’ll stay in a small, charming hotel that’s been restored to provide you with the most relaxing and comforting stay. Once you’re settled in, join the group in the hotel’s restaurant for drinks and dinner before turning in for the night.

Day 7: Balze

Saturday, May 2

Whether you choose to relax and explore the hotel’s property or rejuvenate at the hotel spa, the morning is yours to enjoy! In the evening, learn how to prepare a traditional Emilia-Romagna meal as you take part in a hands-on cooking class that’ll culminate with dinner. A professional chef will teach you about local ingredients and guide you to prepare a meal together along the way.

Day 8: Balze, Faenza, Bologna

Sunday, May 3

After breakfast, you’ll depart with the group and your luggage to Faenza, an Italian city known for its historic pottery. Here, we’ll dive into this ancient art with a longtime traditional producer. Afterward, enjoy exploring this Renaissance city and enjoy lunch on your own. We’ll then travel to our original hotel in Bologna. It is here where you’ll soak in your final evening on our Food Tour with a group dinner at a restaurant with a colorful menu that features seasonal and regional ingredients with great flare.

Day 9: Bologna, Bologna Airport

Monday, May 4

Breakfast will be available at the hotel with a single morning transfer time to the Bologna airport.