From Vatican treasures to the splendor of the Venetian Lagoon, through ancient rivalries and culinary secrets, Travel Director Margherita tells us just some of the things you can learn on this wonderful, leisurely tour.
1. Italian cooking is actually quite simple
“People often think Italian cooking is hard to replicate – complicated recipes made of so many ingredients and difficult procedures. It’s a pleasure and a prerogative for me to teach guests about real Italian food, the way Italians think and live food.
“Fresh ingredients given by Mother Nature are at the core of every recipe. Very little needs to be added and very little work put in to express them in all of their flavors. Some fresh tomatoes mixed with fresh basil leaves and garlic do not need anything but some good extra virgin olive oil to give an unforgettable food experience.”
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2. But Italian dishes may not be what you are expecting
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3. There’s more than you would expect at the Vatican Museums
When in Rome enjoy special fast-tracked entry into the Vatican Museums with a Local Expert. Admire the Papal art collection, before entering the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Then you’re treated to an exclusive Highlight Dinner inside Anima Mundi (spirituality of the world), the Vatican’s ethnological museum.
Perhaps still relatively little known, the Anima Mundi’s vast and varied collection celebrates the cultural, artistic and spiritual tradition of all peoples. Exhibits range from prehistoric artefacts to the gifts given to the current Pontiff. Here you can discover Asian spiritual traditions, Islamic artefacts, African art, and trace the history of the Indigenous peoples of Oceana, Australia and the Americas.
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4. The ongoing rivalry between Pisa and Florence
“One of the things that I love the most about this trip is the guided tour in Pisa,” says Margherita. “It’s not often you get to walk in the Field of Miracles with a local Expert. It’s a great way to fall in love with this unique place, which has so much more to it than the leaning tower.”
The Field of Miracles is the walled 8.87-hectare area (22 acres) consists of The Leaning Tower, the Duomo, the Baptistry and the Monumental Cemetery.
“One of the most interesting facts, amongst all the history of Italy that Pisa has to tell, is the continued strong rivalry with Florence,” says Margherita.
The rivalry between the two cities dates back to medieval times when they were powerful city-states competing for regional dominance. Both sought control over trade routes and economic influence in Tuscany. Pisa’s decline from maritime supremacy, coupled with Florence’s rise as a cultural, artistic, and political center, intensified the historical animosity. These historical factors, combined with regional pride and competition, have perpetuated the rivalry between the two cities over the centuries.
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5. Florence is also a shoppers paradise
On Easy Pace Italy, our popular 10 day Italy tour, learn your Loro Piana from your Massimo Dutti, and search for the most authentic souvenirs as you wander through the market stalls on a shopping tour, enjoying all the Italian treats and finery on offer. Then why not spend your free time in Florence treating yourself in one of the many beautiful boutiques?
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6. The love that goes into Tuscan olive oil
Many olives groves can be found in the picturesque region of Tuscany and the oil-making process is a meticulous art. Ripe olives are handpicked from centuries-old groves and immediately cold-pressed, preserving their full flavor and nutritional value. The terroir, characterized by the mild Mediterranean climate and fertile soil, also contributes to the oil’s distinctive taste.
When you visit the organic farm Il Poggio on the 10 day Italy tour Easy Pace Italy, you’ll enjoy a guided walk, exploring their olive oil and wine production. After a tasting of the produce, you’ll enjoy an authentic Italian Farm-to-table meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
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7. The meaning of agritourismo
Agriturismo is a unique and popular form of rural tourism in Italy that offers visitors an authentic and immersive experience in the countryside. The appeal of agriturismo lies in its connection to nature and a slower-paced way of life. Moreover, it promotes sustainable tourism by supporting local farmers and preserving traditional agricultural practices.
“After that we sit down in the beautiful location and taste some very traditional dishes made with 0 km products, all dressed with their extra virgin olive oil and while tasting some of the wines that they make. It’s a great evening to spend together as a family.”
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8. The secrets of Murano glass
“Back in the day Murano glass was one of the most famous local products in Venice and a great source of income. However, since the birth of bohemian crystal and cheap imitations, Murano glass has lost popularity. Plus, not many of the younger generation are learning these ancient techniques and forms of art nowadays.
“It takes at least a decade to become a glass master and there is no school to teach and learn the skills. Because of these reasons this precious form of art is getting lost.
“Guests arriving at the Murano factory can see a glass master in action making things in front of their eyes, which are usually wide open with surprise. After that a glass expert explains the process – for example how they give color to glass. Guests can purchase goods at the factory if they wish or just roam around in wonder, as it’s like being in a very colorful art gallery!
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9. There’s more to Venice than you can imagine
Available as an optional extra on this 10 day Italy tour, you can enjoy a delightful private cruise around the islands of the Venetian lagoon. Then enjoy dinner and wine on the island of Burano, famous for its candy-colored houses, artisan lace makers and leaning bell tower.
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10. Hand-picked, perfectly located hotels can make your tour exceptional
In Rome, your elegant hotel The Room 007 is located close to Piazza di Spagna, the Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese. The Hotel Roma, your stylish base for three days in Florence is situated right in the very heart of the historical center. Here your surroundings are akin to many of the palatial homes of the Florentine nobles of days gone by.
In Venice, Margherita tells us “The Molino Stucky hotel is a wonderful structure – a magnificently restored 19th century granary. It’s situated in one of the most relaxing and beautiful spots of the lagoon on the island of Giudecca, a pleasurable 15-minute boat ride from the iconic St Mark Square.”
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