luxury tour Archives - Luxo Italia

Top 6 Exclusive Italian Travel Experiences for 2020

Posted on 28 Dicembre 20191 Giugno 2020 by luxoitalia

Italy is hot on the list of places to travel in 2020. With streets steeped in history and cultural epicentres like Rome and Milan, it seems an obvious choice. Though for those with true wanderlust, travel is about more than just a tour of the major sites. At Luxo Italia, we invite you to experience the real Italy, and to help, we’ve gathered the most authentic Italian experiences for 2020 so that you can bring in the new year in true Italian style.

1. Relax on a Sunset Cruise along the Amalfi Coast

What better way to ease into your next Italian escape than aboard a yacht along the legendary Amalfi Coast. Nothing says ‘relaxation’ like a glass of champagne at sunset with the salty air against your skin. The Amalfi Coast is known for its beauty, but you don’t have to waste your time fighting the crowds on popular beaches. A private yacht cruise offers the opportunity to swim in hidden caves, dine on a menu of your choice and discover untouched beaches.

2. Explore Lake Como Aboard a Riva Vintage Boat

Lake Como is synonymous with luxurious indulgence. Imagine Michelin star restaurants, awe-inspiring landscapes and regal architecture, all at the water’s edge. One way to embrace the history and tradition of this unique destination while simultaneously enjoying its key feature – the lake – is to take a tour aboard a vintage Riva boat. The classic Italian craftsmanship of these boats is a sight to behold, and to glide across the water with the wind in your hair is, in our opinion, the best way to see all this dynamic region has to offer.

3. Discover the Vatican’s Labyrinth of Hidden Rooms

To travel Italy is to uncover the many layers of mystery and intrigue that is woven into its history. There is often more to see than what meets the eye. One example of this is the labyrinth of hidden rooms within the Vatican that most people are not even aware exists, let alone have ever had the opportunity to see. Let our expert guides immerse you in tales of a time long past and see a different side to this world famous landmark.

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4. Enjoy a Luxury Gondola Tour of the Venetian Lagoon

You have not felt the magic of Venice until you’ve explored the city using its most traditional and romantic form of transportation – the gondola. Luxo Italia ensure an authentic experience with expert guides and tranquil routes through the floating city that will have you coming back for more.

5. Uncover Untouched Beauty in Puglia

The untapped beauty of the Puglia region offers a fresh take on the much-loved Italian seaside getaway for the discerning traveler. Wander through whitewashed seaside towns and discover a treasure trove of pristine sand beaches and unparalleled natural beauty. Feast like locals in unassuming piazzas on authentic cuisine made from only the finest ingredients. Puglia is set to be the next best thing when it comes to seaside escapes – watch this space.

6. Indulge in a Night of Open-air Culture in Arena di Verona

There’s nothing quite like listening to an opera in a space where the phenomenal acoustics were designed in the first century. The Arena di Verona is one of the most well preserved amphitheaters in all of Italy and one of the best large scale opera venues in the world. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy one of Italy’s greatest musical artforms in a piece of living history.

Founders of Luxo Italia, Paul and Andrea, offer meticulously curated private Italian itineraries for those looking to experience the true essence of Italy. Consider them the well-travelled and trusted friends you always wish you had. With personalized itineraries and recommendations, they will ensure a seamless, once-in-a-lifetime getaway that you’ll be talking about long after you’ve landed back home. For more information, take a look at Luxo Italia’s Facebook and Instagram pages, visit our website or get in touch here.

Image Credits: Jeshoots, Michael Giugliano, Chait Goli, Hotel Campagnola

Five Not-To-Be-Missed Stops On Your Next Culinary Tour of Italy

Posted on 11 Dicembre 20191 Giugno 2020 by luxoitalia

It’s no secret that Italy is the epicenter of the culinary world. Whether you’re an epicure looking for authentic Italian cooking classes, a wine connoisseur searching for the perfect blend, or a gourmet adventurer on the hunt for an off-the-beaten-track experience, we’ve gathered the five not-to-be-missed gastronomic stops for your next Italian escape.

1. Discover the flavour of Tuscany on the Chianti Wine Tour

A famous Italian proverb states ‘in wine there is truth’, and there is no truer way to experience Tuscany than through its wines. Italy is synonymous with fine wine and the Luxo Italia Chianti wine tour is the perfect introduction to the word-class selection on offer. The Chianti region extends from Florence to Siena and is made up of verdant rolling hills and stone-walled cellars, with olive orchards dotted in between.

A trip to this historic region is the ultimate in culinary indulgence, and you’ll also witness 300 years’ worth of viticultural excellence. No two wineries are the same, and each offers a unique glimpse into the balance between the traditional and contemporary Italian wine making scene as it stands today.

2. Gather first-class ingredients on a white truffle hunting experience

Set out into the leafy woods on the outskirts of San Miniato for a chance to hunt for a culinary treat – the white truffle. Be a part of this ancient Tuscan tradition and, while you search, learn all about the history and uses of this gastronomic treasure. After your day out in the woods you’ll be treated to an exceptional meal using the ingredients foraged for during your tour, with a demonstration of how best to use them in your next Italian meal. If this sounds like just the experience for you, be sure not to miss out on our exclusive white truffle hunting tours offered in Tuscany.

3. Sample traditional Italian cuisine at its finest at Solociccia in Panzano

To see Chef Dario Cecchini cooking is to witness poetry in motion. This internationally acclaimed butcher and chef has been working to keep the tradition of butchery alive, while simultaneously taking an environmentally conscious and sustainable approach. Dining at Solociccia is an opportunity to experience the heart of Italian cuisine, with simple cuts of meats prepared to perfection.

Enjoy a six-course meal, complemented with seasonal vegetables and a Tuscan favorite – beans with extra virgin olive oil. Soak it all up with fresh bread and a glass of the region’s best wines. To finish, indulge in slice of unique olive oil cake and the age-old tradition of a glass of grappa. This off-the-beaten-track Italian culinary experience is one you’ll be talking about long after the taste of ragu has faded.

4. Taste world-renowned white wine in sleepy San Gimignano

When you step into the walled city of San Gimignano, you’re stepping into a fairy-tale world like no other. While exploring the winding streets beneath terracotta roofs, make sure to look out for cellars boasting the internationally acclaimed Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Made from the vernaccia grape that can only be found in the hills around San Gimignano, this dry, crisp white attracts wine connoisseurs from across the world to sample Italy’s finest white wine. Make sure to wrap a bottle up for your trip home – you won’t regret it.

5. Learn age-old secrets to Italian cuisine with Chef Luigi

Visit the family-owned restaurant Salice Blu in Bellagio and allow the energetic and internationally-acclaimed Chef Luigi to teach you the secrets of the Italian kitchen. Chef Luigi’s classes are renowned for their personal touch and engaging approach. After sharing a coffee and a myriad of stories with your host, you’ll follow Chef Luigi into the garden to pick and choose from a selection of fresh produce and ingredients. The morning will be spent making fresh pasta from scratch, which will later be enjoyed al fresco on the terrace. This experience is best paired with a Riva vintage boat tour along the shores of Lake Como.

Why choose us to be your luxury Italian tour planners?

Luxo Italia offers hand-crafted Italian travel itineraries for discerning travelers looking for an exclusive experience of one of the world’s greatest gastronomic destinations. If one of the experiences listed here has piqued your interest, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. For more information, take a look at our website, send us an email on info@luxoitalia.com or call +39 02 9475 2187.

What are you waiting for? Plan your next Italian escape today!

Experience Italian Excellence: Portofino to Como in 7 Days

Posted on 25 Novembre 20191 Giugno 2020 by luxoitalia

Have you always wanted to take a tailor-made tour through Italy, but never been sure about exactly what to do and where to go? With Luxo Italia, you get to experience Italy’s very finest experience, curated by our in-country experts. For us, attention to detail is everything. Our dedicated team takes care of everything from elegant transport and luxury accommodation to activities and restaurant bookings at award-winning establishments. All we need from you is a sense of your passions, interests, and bucket-list items – and then we take care of the rest.

To give you a sense of what you can expect from a journey with Luxo Italia, we include one of our most recent and truly exceptional itineraries below:

Day 1

Upon arrival in Italy, our chauffeured Mercedes S class will transport you to your hotel in Portofino, situated just two and a half hours from Milan. The Belmond Splendido and Belmond Splendido Mare are two of finest luxury hotels in Portofino. Whether you’re into soaking up local life in the harbor, or prefer gazing down to the coast from the hillsides, Portofino is bound to inspire you.

Your first evening will be spent at one of the best restaurants along this stretch of coast. Taverna Del Marinaio is the place to experience decadent local fare, lovely views, and a truly romantic atmosphere.

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Day 2

Enjoy a free day exploring the town or visit Paraggi, a beautiful bay located between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino.

Day 3

Don your best swimsuit and prepare for a leisurely day spent on a private yacht cruising around Cinque Terre, an area famous for its spectacular multicolored cliffside towns. The cruise departs at 10am and includes a premium bottle of champagne.

Day 4

Start the day by saying farewell to the Belmond Hotel and set off on your private transfer. The magnificent Mandarin Oriental awaits your arrival on the shores of Italy’s legendary Lake Como. Expect exclusivity and timeless elegance combined with signature Italian charisma. Spend the afternoon settling into your new abode, relax at the floating pool, or spoil yourself with a treatment at the on-site spa.

Day 5

Board a classic Riva Arniston and set off on an unforgettable adventure around Lake Como. The Arniston was described by Carlo Riva as being ‘designed with love, born pure and strong like a pedigree horse. Unforgettable! It was my lord of the sea’ – and it is known as a smooth yet sporty ride.

Your tour includes stunning sights such as Villa Balbinanello, an iconic location featured in the James Bond movie Casino Royale, and one of the recent Star Wars movies. The day’s adventure also includes lunch at a traditional Italian restaurant in Bellagio.

Day 6

Lake Como is one of the most magical places in Italy, so make the most of a free day here by exploring the age-old towns that adorn its shores, shopping in Como or sampling the incredible restaurants in the area.

Day 7

Check out of the Mandarin Oriental and enjoy the scenic drive back to Milan’s Malpensa Airport for a flight home.

Once you have experienced the culture, beauty and culinary masterpieces of Italy, the likelihood of you planning your next trip on the flight home is high. When you’re ready to return, don’t forget to consult your local travel experts for another tailor-made itinerary!