Overview
Flavors of Italy: Roman Carbonara, Florentine Steak & Venetian Cocktails
Europe
9 days
8 nights
12 people
Moderate
Food & Drink
This mouth-watering adventure will take you on a culinary journey through three of Italy’s most captivating cities: Rome, Florence, and Venice. Soak up the unique Italian flavors and aromas of the country’s vibrant food markets, vineyards, and farms. Explore exquisite palaces, cathedrals and amphitheaters, and eat with the locals in some truly spectacular locations as you learn the secrets of the world’s favorite cuisine.
Special Access: Cook in the hip Roman neighborhood Trastevere, enjoying lunch in your hostess's apartment.
Travel with Purpose: Take a cooking class using Rialto ingredients that support sustainable fishing in the Venice Lagoon.
Highlights
- Taste the finest food and wine Italy has to offer.
- Cook in the hip Roman neighborhood Trastevere, enjoying lunch in your hostess's apartment.
- Dine out in an exceptional private residence that’s not open to the public.
- Explore Italy’s most iconic landmarks; the Colosseum, St Mark’s Square and more.
- Wake up in a historic castle to views of rolling Tuscan hills.
- Take a cooking class using Rialto ingredients that support sustainable fishing in the Venice Lagoon.
Savor local cuisine across Rome, Florence & Venice.
Day 1
Welcome to the Eternal City
Welcome to Rome! Start your Italian culinary adventure with a twilight tour of the city, taking in the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and other iconic sites. A lavish dinner then awaits you at a much loved family-run restaurant, set in a sprawling 16th century Palazzo famous for its extensive and beautifully presented wine cellar. Saluti!
Welcome to the Eternal City
Welcome to Rome! Start your Italian culinary adventure with a twilight tour of the city, taking in the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and other iconic sites. A lavish dinner then awaits you at a much loved family-run restaurant, set in a sprawling 16th century Palazzo famous for its extensive and beautifully presented wine cellar. Saluti!
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Welcome Dinner
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Gastro Secrets & Archaeological Treasure
Today you will discover the secrets of authentic Italian food with the help of a distinguished local chef. Explore the bohemian Trastevere district and its famous food market, before enjoying a lively cooking class and intimate lunch in your hostess’s apartment. Carbonara, saltimbocca and other regional specialties are sure to be on the menu. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Palatine Hill, Europe’s largest archaeological area, and home to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. As you stroll amongst these historic heavyweights, hear fascinating anecdotes about everyday life in ancient Rome, from extraordinary public spectacles designed to entertain the masses, to ancient Roman gastronomy and its surprising culinary recipes.
Gastro Secrets & Archaeological Treasure
Today you will discover the secrets of authentic Italian food with the help of a distinguished local chef. Explore the bohemian Trastevere district and its famous food market, before enjoying a lively cooking class and intimate lunch in your hostess’s apartment. Carbonara, saltimbocca and other regional specialties are sure to be on the menu. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Palatine Hill, Europe’s largest archaeological area, and home to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. As you stroll amongst these historic heavyweights, hear fascinating anecdotes about everyday life in ancient Rome, from extraordinary public spectacles designed to entertain the masses, to ancient Roman gastronomy and its surprising culinary recipes.
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
Mysteries of the Vatican
Your last day in Rome will be spent exploring the smallest country in the world - Vatican City. In St. Peter’s Square, you will do your best Da Vinci Code impression as we search for the symbols hiding throughout the monumental complex, before heading to St. Peter’s Basilica. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a pizza cooking class and lunch in the Sant’Angelo district, discovering an enchanting neighborhood famous for its fish markets along the Tiber river. This evening is yours to relax, wander, and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Mysteries of the Vatican
Your last day in Rome will be spent exploring the smallest country in the world - Vatican City. In St. Peter’s Square, you will do your best Da Vinci Code impression as we search for the symbols hiding throughout the monumental complex, before heading to St. Peter’s Basilica. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a pizza cooking class and lunch in the Sant’Angelo district, discovering an enchanting neighborhood famous for its fish markets along the Tiber river. This evening is yours to relax, wander, and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Hotel Exe Domus Aurea or similar, Rome
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
On Cloud Wine
Take a short scenic drive through the Chianti Hills to a magnificent vineyard estate, where you will enjoy a private tour and learn all about Chianti wine, before a series of tastings and a sumptuous lunch overlooking the rolling Tuscan countryside.
In the afternoon, you will explore the impossibly picturesque medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval art and tower-dotted skyline. It’s also a foodie mecca, known for its saffron, golden ham, pecorino cheese and Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine. After a busy day sampling the delights of Tuscany, enjoy a relaxing dinner amongst the sumptuous surroundings of youryour charming agriturismo accommodation
On Cloud Wine
Take a short scenic drive through the Chianti Hills to a magnificent vineyard estate, where you will enjoy a private tour and learn all about Chianti wine, before a series of tastings and a sumptuous lunch overlooking the rolling Tuscan countryside.
In the afternoon, you will explore the impossibly picturesque medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval art and tower-dotted skyline. It’s also a foodie mecca, known for its saffron, golden ham, pecorino cheese and Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine. After a busy day sampling the delights of Tuscany, enjoy a relaxing dinner amongst the sumptuous surroundings of youryour charming agriturismo accommodation
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Agriturismo Fattoria Lavacchio or similar, Chianti area
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Agriturismo Fattoria Lavacchio or similar, Chianti area
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Birthplace of the Renaissance
Head to Florence today, the glittering capital of Tuscany. Explore the city on foot as your expert guide regales you with the myriad of myths, mysteries, and supernatural legends that haunt the city. Then meet a friendly local family at the bustling San Lorenzo Market for a hands on cooking class. After lunch, time travel through the Roman, Medieval and Renaissance eras with a guided visit to the Palazzo Vecchio, the former seat of the Florentine government. Discover this spectacular palace’s secret rooms, the alchemy laboratory, rooftop galleries and paintings by Michelangelo, Giorgio Vasari and Donatello.
Birthplace of the Renaissance
Head to Florence today, the glittering capital of Tuscany. Explore the city on foot as your expert guide regales you with the myriad of myths, mysteries, and supernatural legends that haunt the city. Then meet a friendly local family at the bustling San Lorenzo Market for a hands on cooking class. After lunch, time travel through the Roman, Medieval and Renaissance eras with a guided visit to the Palazzo Vecchio, the former seat of the Florentine government. Discover this spectacular palace’s secret rooms, the alchemy laboratory, rooftop galleries and paintings by Michelangelo, Giorgio Vasari and Donatello.
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Hotel Martelli or similar, Florence
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Breakfast, Lunch
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Hotel Martelli or similar, Florence
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Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6
Olive Oil & Architectural Marvels
Italy is the world’s second biggest producer of olive oil, and today you will taste some of Italy’s finest oils at a historic farm that has been in the same family for 3 generations. After a delicious Tuscan lunch at the farm, you will return to Florence for a guided tour of the most famous landmark in Florence. The magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore, an elaborate basilica with a colossal dome that dominates the Florentine skyline, was erected in the 13th century. In the evening, you will head across the River Arno to Oltarno, Florence’s coolest neighborhood, for an exclusive dinner in a private home. Enjoy a delicious meal with the owner, cooked using the family’s homegrown fruit and vegetables.
Olive Oil & Architectural Marvels
Italy is the world’s second biggest producer of olive oil, and today you will taste some of Italy’s finest oils at a historic farm that has been in the same family for 3 generations. After a delicious Tuscan lunch at the farm, you will return to Florence for a guided tour of the most famous landmark in Florence. The magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore, an elaborate basilica with a colossal dome that dominates the Florentine skyline, was erected in the 13th century. In the evening, you will head across the River Arno to Oltarno, Florence’s coolest neighborhood, for an exclusive dinner in a private home. Enjoy a delicious meal with the owner, cooked using the family’s homegrown fruit and vegetables.
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Hotel Martelli or similar, Florence
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Hotel Martelli or similar, Florence
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Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Queen of the Adriatic
Take the high-speed train from Florence to Venice, the one-of-a-kind capital of a once powerful empire in the Adriatic Sea. You will start with a tour of this dreamy city, beginning at the Rialto Bridge. For lunch, we will visit a cicchetti bar to sample the traditional small plates that Venice is famous for. In the afternoon you will wander around one of the world’s most famous squares, the grandiose Piazza San Marco, and enjoy a tour of the Doge's Palace. After that, you will experience the legendary hospitality of Caffè Florian as we uncover the secrets of Venetian coffee culture and sample some exquisite pastries. Your evening is then free for further exploration of this fairytale city.
Queen of the Adriatic
Take the high-speed train from Florence to Venice, the one-of-a-kind capital of a once powerful empire in the Adriatic Sea. You will start with a tour of this dreamy city, beginning at the Rialto Bridge. For lunch, we will visit a cicchetti bar to sample the traditional small plates that Venice is famous for. In the afternoon you will wander around one of the world’s most famous squares, the grandiose Piazza San Marco, and enjoy a tour of the Doge's Palace. After that, you will experience the legendary hospitality of Caffè Florian as we uncover the secrets of Venetian coffee culture and sample some exquisite pastries. Your evening is then free for further exploration of this fairytale city.
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Hotel Abazia or similar, Venice
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Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee and Pastries
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Hotel Abazia or similar, Venice
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Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee and Pastries
Day 8
Neighborhoods and Waterways
Your first stop today is the Cannaregio district or “Jewish Ghetto.” Meander through the labyrinthine streets, as you hear about the Hebrew community in Venice over the centuries. Next up is the enchanting San Polo neighborhood. Your Venetian hostess will guide you through the local fish market, and after selecting some of the finest local ingredients, you will enjoy a cooking class and lunch with your host at her private residence. Afterwards, you will have some free time to relax or take in more spectacular sites. Your final group dinner of the trip will take place at a historical restaurant renowned for its delicate Venetian seafood. A spectacular farewell awaits, as you sip a Bellini cocktail in a rooftop bar overlooking the Grand Canal, a site that’s sure to stir your emotions.
Neighborhoods and Waterways
Your first stop today is the Cannaregio district or “Jewish Ghetto.” Meander through the labyrinthine streets, as you hear about the Hebrew community in Venice over the centuries. Next up is the enchanting San Polo neighborhood. Your Venetian hostess will guide you through the local fish market, and after selecting some of the finest local ingredients, you will enjoy a cooking class and lunch with your host at her private residence. Afterwards, you will have some free time to relax or take in more spectacular sites. Your final group dinner of the trip will take place at a historical restaurant renowned for its delicate Venetian seafood. A spectacular farewell awaits, as you sip a Bellini cocktail in a rooftop bar overlooking the Grand Canal, a site that’s sure to stir your emotions.
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Hotel Abazia or similar, Venice
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Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
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Hotel Abazia or similar, Venice
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Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 9
Farewell & Departure
Your Italian adventure ends today, you can arrange to leave anytime after breakfast (and after your final cappuccino). If you are planning to stay in Italy a little longer, don’t forget to check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Italy for tips on what else to do in this beautiful country.
Farewell & Departure
Your Italian adventure ends today, you can arrange to leave anytime after breakfast (and after your final cappuccino). If you are planning to stay in Italy a little longer, don’t forget to check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Italy for tips on what else to do in this beautiful country.
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Breakfast
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre/Post trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $855 USD per person
2025 departures: $965 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost:
2024 departures: $855 USD per person
2025 departures: $965 USD per person
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
This tour has a moderate activity level. Consider four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs.
Activity Level
This tour has a moderate activity level. Consider four to six miles of walking each day, with lots of time spent moving around and on your feet. You should be comfortable walking on both flat and uneven ground, as well as stairs.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 2 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 9. Rome International Airport (FCO) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe and North America. The best flight connections to Rome are offered by Alitalia Airlines and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 2 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 9. Rome International Airport (FCO) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe and North America. The best flight connections to Rome are offered by Alitalia Airlines and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Send us a
Trip Leader
Felipe Trigo
Felipe Trigo is a historian, trip guide, and events whiz with a degree in History from Barcelona University. He curates immersive, dynamic itineraries that explore history through the most surprising and hidden elements within the city, such as visits to normally off-limits private collections and houses, hidden bunkers and shelters, and performance events, theatrical tours, concerts, and dinners in the most unusual locations. Inspired by a special devotion to stage arts, Felipe has directed the underground cabaret company Kriminal Kabarett since 2011. For the past five years, he has served as co-director for Hendrick’s Congress for Curious People in Spain. He has been creating and leading trips for Atlas Obscura since 2018, welcoming travelers to discover the myths and mysteries of Barcelona, Rome, Andalucia, and Tuscany.
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Flavors of Italy: Roman Carbonara, Florentine Steak & Venetian Cocktails? We're here to help!
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Flavors of Italy: Roman Carbonara, Florentine Steak & Venetian Cocktails? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.