Made in Italy

Food, Motors & Art in Emilia-Romagna
OCTOBER 2 TO 9, 2026
Overview

Discover the Heart of Italy: A 8-Day Journey Through Emilia-Romagna and Beyond

Step into the vibrant soul of Emilia-Romagna on this unforgettable 8-day adventure. From the culinary treasures of Bologna and Modena to the breathtaking mosaics of Ravenna, every moment immerses you in the art, culture, and flavors that make this region so extraordinary.
Savor the flavors of Italy with two hands-on cooking classes, taste authentic Parmigiano Reggiano at the very dairy where it’s made, sample traditional balsamic vinegar at a private, family-owned historic Modena acetaia, and enjoy the prestigious culatello—considered the highest form of prosciutto—straight from its local producers. Explore bustling markets brimming with local treasures, wander historic city centers with private guides, and experience the legendary Ferrari Museum, where you’ll discover the artistry, innovation, and passion behind one of Italy’s most iconic symbols of speed and design.
Dine in local restaurants celebrated for their regional specialties and stay in carefully selected central hotels that let you soak in the rhythm and charm of each city. With expertly curated experiences designed by Giovanna and her team, this journey seamlessly blends cultural discovery, culinary mastery, and meaningful personal connections, creating an Italian adventure you’ll never forget.

Embrace Italy. Taste its soul. Make memories that last a lifetime.

Highlights
  • Culinary tastings in Bologna & Modena’s historic markets
  • Two hands-on cooking class in Bologna and Modena
  • Visit Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar producers
  • Explore Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage mosaics
  • Exclusive private Ferrari Museum tour in Maranello
  • Luxury stays in centrally located boutique hotels
  • Privateguided walking tours of Bologna and Modena
  • Small-group, intimate travel experience

Bologna, Modena, Milan

Itinerary and pricing

DEPARTURE FROM THE UNITED STATES
Thursday, October 1, 2026
DAY 1: Friday, October 2
Welcome to Italy!

Afternoon: Arrive in Bologna. Check in to your centrally located hotel in the heart of Bologna.

Orientation tour of Bologna with private local guide. Tour will include Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square, with the Basilica of San Petronio. On the way will will also stop in the courtyard of the Archiginnasio, the first seat of the Bologna University.

Evening: Join Giovanna for a welcome aperitivo and savory Bolognese refreshments.

DAY 2: Saturday, October 3

Morning: Start your day with an enlightening Walking tour of Bologna. Italy’s culinary capital, and its old markets. Learn about the city’s culinary history and culture.

Afternoon: Cooking Class with Chef Cristina in Bologna

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna with a hands-on cooking class led by local chef Cristina. Learn to prepare authentic regional specialties, from fresh handmade pasta to classic sauces, and discover the flavors that make Bologna a true gastronomic capital of Italy. Experience the joy of cooking, tasting your creations, and taking home recipes to recreate the magic in your own kitchen.

Evening: After the class, enjoy a delightful dinner featuring the dishes you’ve prepared, savoring the true flavors of Bologna while celebrating your culinary creations.

DAY 3: Sunday, October 4

Morning: Enjoy Bologna on your own.

Early afternoon: Meet Giovanna and depart for Ravenna.

Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, later the heart of the Ostrogothic Kingdom, and eventually a key province of the Byzantine Empire, Ravenna is a treasure trove of history and art. Its remarkable monuments preserve some of the finest mosaics in the world—eight of which have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1996.

Your guided tour will include visits to the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the tomb of the great Italian poet Dante Alighieri, the Basilica of San Vitale, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

Evening: Group dinner at Hotel’s restaurant.

DAY 4: Monday, October 5

Morning: Meet Giovanna and depart for Modena, with an en-route stop at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. Explore the history and innovation of this iconic Italian brand, admire the legendary cars, and enjoy a guided tour of the exhibits.

Afternoon: Lunch in Maranello at a local restaurant. After lunch, continue to Modena and enjoy an orientation walking tour of Modena with a local guide, discovering its historic center, elegant piazzas, and charming streets while learning about the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage.

Evening: Group dinner at the private atelier of Giovanna’s good friend, Maria Vittoria.

DAY 5: Tuesday, October 6

Full-Day Excursion to Modena’s Countryside
Discover the culinary treasures of Modena on a full-day excursion through its picturesque countryside. Visit an authentic Parmigiano Reggiano dairy to see how this world-famous cheese is crafted, from milk to aging wheels, and enjoy a tasting of the rich, nutty flavors. Continue to a renowned acetaia, where traditional balsamic vinegar is carefully aged and produced using centuries-old methods, and savor a guided tasting of this liquid gold. Along the way, enjoy the rolling hills and charming villages that make Modena a true gem of Italian gastronomy.

Evening: Relaxed evening with dinner on your own.

DAY 6: Wednesday, October 7

Morning: Walking Tour of Modena and Mercato Albinelli. Explore the historic center of Modena with a knowledgeable local guide, discovering its elegant piazzas, medieval streets, and rich cultural heritage. Visit the iconic Mercato Albinelli, a vibrant market opened in 1931, known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and wide selection of local delicacies. Experience the aromas and flavors of Emilia-Romagna, from fresh produce and cured meats to traditional cheeses, while learning about the city’s culinary traditions and history.

Afternoon: Cooking Class with Chef Cristina in Modena
Experience the heart of Modena’s gastronomy with a hands-on cooking class guided by the talented Chef Cristina. Learn to craft traditional dishes, from rich sauces to fresh pasta, using local ingredients and time-honored techniques.

Evening: Conclude the class with a memorable dinner, enjoying the flavors of the dishes you’ve prepared and savoring the culinary essence of Modena.

DAY 7: Thursday, October 8
‍Modena, Milan

Morning: Meet Giovanna and depart for Milan, with an en-route stop in Polesine Parmense, nestled along the Po River. Visit the 14th-century Antica Corte Pallavicina, a true gem steeped in history. Explore their farm and the famed cellars, where thousands of Culatelli di Zibello—a top-quality prosciutto—are carefully aged.

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch before continuing to Milan, where you will check in at a centrally located hotel.

Evening: Farewell dinner at Giovannas’ favorite sea food restaurant in Milan.

DAY 7: Friday, October 9
End of tour

Fly back to the US. Arrivederci Italia!

Itinerary specifics subject to change.

 

OPTIONAL: Pre-Tour Experience for Golf Lovers – Enhance your journey with an elegant optional pre-tour at Golf Club Bologna, located in Monte San Pietro just 20 minutes from the heart of the city. Founded in 1959, Golf Club Bologna is one of Italy’s most historic and picturesque golf courses. Its 18-hole, par-72 layout unfolds across rolling hills with sweeping views of the Emilia-Romagna countryside, offering a beautiful and relaxing start to your Italian adventure. Perfect for golfers of all levels, this optional pre-tour is a refined way to ease into the journey ahead.

Contact Giovanna for more information and details. 

Tour Pricing Includes:
  • Elegant accommodations at centrally located 5/4-star hotels:
    • 3 nights Bologna
    • 3 nights Modena
    • 1 night in Milan 
  • Visit with tasting at an Artisanal Vinegar producer
  • Visit with tasting at a Parmigiano Reggiano producer
  • Visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello with private Ferrari guide
  • 2 Cooking classes with Chef Cristina: 
    • 1 in Bologna 
    • 1 in Modena 
  • Private transportation as per itinerary
  • Private walking tours with guides as follows: Bologna, Ravenna, Modena
  • All Gratuities for restaurants
  • All museum entry fees
  • All local taxes
Meals as Follows
  • Breakfast daily
  • Private welcome aperitivo in Bologna
  • Private dinner reception in Modena
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Maranello
  • Lunch at the Acetaia (vinegar producer) in the Modena area
  • Lunch at a local farm in the Parma countryside
  • Farewell Dinner in Milan 

The service of your host, Giovanna Chiti, founder of Discover my Italy for entire event

  • Flights
  • Meals unless specified
  • Airport transfers
  • Gratuities to driver & guides
  • Travel Insurance (strongly recommended)

Tour Cost based on double occupancy
Payable with credit card

Price per person:
$TBD

Single Supplement:
+$TBD

All aspects of the tour will be coordinated by Giovanna Chiti of Discover my Italy

This tour requires a minimum of 10 participants to proceed, ensuring the best group experience for all travelers.

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Discover My Italy
2213 Locust St.,Philadelphia, PA 19103
Giovanna’s contact:
(+1) 215 460 7436

Owner's email address: giovanna@discovermyitaly.com