Venice, Florence & Rome – Beyond the Familiar
An Invitation to the Italian Table with Chef Matteo Di Rosa
Overview
Experience Italy like most travelers never do! You’ve admired Italy’s landmarks, perhaps from afar or in person, but now is your chance to experience the country through the eyes of someone who calls it home. This signature journey is hosted by Chef Matteo Di Rosa, whose passion for sharing the Italy he knows and loves transforms each stop along the way into something deeply personal.
Explore Venice, Florence, and Rome through extraordinary access, boutique luxury accommodations, celebrated regional cuisine, private cultural experiences, and meaningful encounters that simply cannot be replicated by traditional touring. Rather than rushing from landmark to landmark, you’ll experience Italy through the stories, traditions, and hospitality that have shaped Matteo’s life. Glide across the Venetian lagoon by private water taxi, discover hidden vineyard estates, dine in historic osterias, enjoy privileged access to Renaissance masterpieces, share unforgettable meals, and savor Brunello wines among the vineyards where they are born.
Throughout the journey, Chef Matteo offers not simply commentary, but perspective, revealing the customs, flavors, and local traditions that have defined generations of Italian life. This is more than a luxury tour. It is an invitation to experience Italy with the warmth of friendship, the confidence of local knowledge, and the quiet privilege of seeing what most travelers never do.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
- Venetian Canal-Front Boutique Hotel
- Private Water Taxi Arrival
- Hidden Treasures of the Venetian Lagoon
- Exclusive Estate Dining and Wine Experiences
- Vineyards and Villages of Tuscany
-
VIP Access: Renaissance Art of Florence & Rome
PACKAGE INCLUDES
- Roundtrip commercial air from Indianapolis to Venice and from Rome, Italy
- Escorted
- Hosted by Italian Chef Matteo Di Rosa
- 9 nights accommodations
- Breakfast Daily
- 4 lunches, 3 dinners
- Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Hotel baggage handling
Itinerary
Mon, Apr 26: Depart Indianapolis for an overnight flight to Venice, Italy as your Italian journey begins.
Tue, Apr 27: Upon arrival in Venice, meet your tour guide and step directly into the comfort of a private water taxi, gliding across the shimmering lagoon directly to your hotel dock, your home for the next three nights, the boutique Starhotels Splendid Venice, a refined and elegant property featuring striking canal views. Gather with Chef Matteo for a rich Benvenuto lunch with fine Italian wine to celebrate your first day under the Venetian sky. As you share the table together, begin discovering the flavors, traditions, and stories that make Venice unlike anywhere else in the world. (Meals: Lunch)
Wed, Apr 28: Begin each morning with an included breakfast before embarking on the day’s journey. Today, uncover the mystery of Venice’s hidden backstreets, historic campo districts, and legendary St. Mark’s Square during a private guided walking tour. Equipped with personal whisper headsets for effortless listening, enjoy a deeper understanding of the architecture, traditions and history that shaped this floating marvel. The balance of the day is yours to experience Venice, wander along quiet canals, visit world-class galleries, browse artisan boutiques, or simply enjoy the timeless café culture of this unforgettable city at your own unhurried pace. (B)
Thu, Apr 29: A privately guided exploration of Doge’s Palace awaits—the magnificent symbol of Venetian power and one of the city’s greatest architectural treasures. Thereafter, leave the well-traveled paths behind and cruise by private lagoon charter to the peaceful island of Mazzorbo to visit the unique, walled vineyard of the Venissa estate. Discover the remarkable story of Venice’s native vineyard and enjoy a producer-led tasting of rare heritage wines. Continue to the nearby village of Burano, known for its colorful homes and peaceful canals, where you may enjoy an authentic lagoon lunch at your leisure. This evening, conclude our final night in Venice with a magical moonlit gondola experience through the city’s quiet waterways. (B)
Fri, Apr 30: Today, continue to Florence, where Renaissance artistry, Tuscan traditions, and centuries of history come together. Upon arrival, explore Florence’s historic center, including the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and other influential figures, responsible for shaping Italian culture. Check in to your hotel in the heart of Florence for a three-night stay. This evening, gather around the table at a traditional Florentine osteria for a memorable Tuscan dining experience. With Chef Matteo, discover the story behind the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina, from regional cattle traditions to the craftsmanship behind preparing this beloved dish. (B,D)
Sat, May 1: Travel through the Tuscan countryside to one of the most stunning, tower-laden hill towns in Italy, San Gimignano. Walk among ancient towers, stone streets, and centuries of immaculately preserved history within its walls. Continue to Tenuta Torciano for a memorable estate lunch experience featuring Tuscan cuisine and celebrated regional wines. Enjoy regional specialties including artisanal cheeses, truffle lasagna or traditional ribollita, roasted meats, and authentic cantuccini. Each course is masterfully paired with world-class vintages including Vernaccia, Chianti Classico, rare Super Tuscans, and Brunello di Montalcino before returning to Florence for an evening at leisure. (B,L)
Sun, May 2: Dedicate your day to the finest artistic masterpieces the world has ever known. Enjoy premier entry to the legendary Uffizi Gallery, accompanied by an expert private guide. Wander through rooms filled with Masterpieces of the Renaissance while learning the deep stories behind each brushstroke. Take a leisurely afternoon to stroll the elegant Florentine streets and shop independently. Later, enjoy private access to the Accademia Gallery and stand in awe before Michelangelo’s towering David without the usual crowds, concluding a day devoted to the brilliance of the Renaissance. (B,D)
Mon, May 3: Bid farewell to Florence as you journey through the rolling vineyards and cypress-lined hills of southern Tuscany. Your destination is an exceptional Brunello estate near Montalcino, where generations of winemakers have perfected one of Italy’s most celebrated wines. Enjoy a privately hosted vineyard visit, cellar tour, and leisurely estate lunch paired with distinguished Brunello selections. Throughout the day, Chef Matteo shares the traditions, stories, and enduring pride of this remarkable region, offering a deeper appreciation for the people and customs that continue to inspire his love of Italy. Continue to Rome, where you’ll settle into your elegant accommodation for the next three nights before gathering for a welcoming evening reception as Chef Matteo welcomes you to the Eternal City. (B,L,D)
Tue, May 4: Today we experience three unforgettable sides of Rome, ancient history, culinary traditions, and timeless beauty. Begin the day with a privately escorted visit to Rome’s ancient catacombs. Guided by the site’s resident expert, we’ll explore these remarkable underground passageways and uncover the fascinating history of early Christians whose stories are well preserved beneath the city. Later, join Chef Matteo for a special cooking demonstration and shared meal celebrating the flavors and delicacies of Italian fare. As evening arrives, enjoy a leisurely sunset walking tour through the Eternal City’s iconic streets, where golden light, lively piazzas, and centuries of history come together to reveal Rome at its most enchanting. (B,L)
Wed, May 5: Awaken to a grand exploration of Rome, beginning with premier access to the breathtaking Vatican Museums and the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica. After a break for an independent lunch, embark on a walking tour of Ancient Rome. Stand before the majesty of the Roman Forum, view the iconic exterior of the Colosseum, and explore the historic Pantheon district. This evening, celebrate your journey with an intimate farewell dinner. Share exquisite cuisine with Chef Matteo as he reflects on the regions, traditions, and memories created throughout your Italian adventure. Together, toast to the friendships formed along the way. (B,D)
Thu, May 6: Transfer to Rome airport for your return journey home. As you say Arrivederci to Italy, you leave with more than photographs. You carry shared memories, new friendships, unforgettable meals, and a deeper connection to the country that welcomed you so warmly. (B)
Hotels
Splendid Venice, Venice. Ideally located just moments from St. Mark’s Square, this refined and elegant boutique hotel offers a quintessential Venetian experience within a central yet secluded setting. The property is decorated with a beautiful blend of rich colors, precious fabrics, and contemporary design pieces that pay tribute to Venetian heritage, all of which can be enjoyed alongside striking canal views. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • restaurant • bar • panoramic rooftop terrace • complimentary WiFi internet access.
Helvetia & Bristol Firenze, Florence. Situated in the heart of Florence, just steps from Piazza della Repubblica, Via de’ Tornabuoni, the Duomo, and Ponte Vecchio, this historic luxury hotel blends timeless Florentine elegance with contemporary comfort. Originally opened in the late 19th century and beautifully restored, the property offers refined accommodations, exceptional dining, and one of Florence’s most celebrated urban spas. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar • fitness center • spa with thermal baths.
Le Méridien Visconti Rome, Rome. Situated in Rome’s refined, quieter Prati neighborhood with the historic Tiber River, Vatican City, and Castel Sant’Angelo only a short walk away. This upscale and sophisticated modern hotel features an interior design heavily inspired by sleek 1950s modernism. The property is decorated with an impressive collection of contemporary Italian artwork in the lobby, complementing the spacious, light-filled rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar • fitness center • bicycle rentals.
*Hotels are subject to change at the discretion of each property, due to high demand and based upon the final numbers. Hotel changes will be made to establishments of similar classifications.
Pricing
- Package with Air*
- Double P/P – $10,299
- Single – $12,299
- Land Only
- Double P/P – $9,199
- Single – $11,199
Triple Rate call for availability
*Subject to change due to increase in exchange rate or fuel surcharge
Deposit Per Person: $600
Final Payment: 01/15/2027
