Travel Italy: Tuscany & Umbria

Pack your curiosity (and your appetite!) because what awaits is a one-of-a-kind journey through the heart of Italy! Join Suzy Karadsheh, New York Times best-selling author and founder of The Mediterranean Dish on an unforgettable eight-day journey in Tuscany and Umbria!

From breathtaking sightseeing to hands on cooking classes, special events, visits with local experts, and more, this trip is custom designed with The Mediterranean Dish Community in mind.

We’ll begin our journey together in the rolling hills of Chianti, where a warm welcome awaits at the beautiful Tuscan retreat of Villa il Poggiale. From there, we’ll wander through the lush countryside of Umbria, where the centuries-old olive groves of Centumbrie and the peaceful shores of Lake Trasimeno create the perfect backdrop for slowing down and savoring every moment.

We will learn about the magic of saffron, get hands-on making torta al testo, taste the most exquisite olive oils, and relax at the serene il Cantico della Natura resort—right in the heart of Italy.

Our adventure continues to Orvieto and Città della Pieve, two charming towns where lively markets, artisanal cheesemakers, and local farms will introduce us to the freshest flavors of the region. And then, we’ll wrap up our trip in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where Tuscan culinary traditions truly come to life. Here, we’ll explore vibrant markets and roll up our sleeves for a fun, hands-on cooking class.

Along the way, we’ll gather around tables at cozy trattorias and osterias, enjoying seasonal dishes made with love and local ingredients. And by the end of our journey, you’ll return home refreshed and inspired—with new recipes to add to your Mediterranean kitchen, and a heart full of warm memories of shared meals, laughter, and meaningful moments spent with new friends.

Space is limited! Secure your spot today with a deposit of $1000.

A Few Highlights

• Breathtaking views and exceptional sightseeing through iconic, stunning parts of central Italy. We will explore the majestic rolling hills and gorgeous sunsets of the lush landscapes of Umbria, the architecture and beautiful Renaissance streets of Florence, and much more.
• Special excursions through charming hilltowns to discover medieval gems like Orvieto, Todi, and Città della Pieve, with their historic streets, and authentic local flavors.
• Custom-designed culinary and farm-to-table experiences including visits to local farms such as Quinto Sapore, a renowned organic farm that has made an appearance on Stanley Tucci’s series, olive oil tastings in the groves of Umbria, sampling special cheeses and local wines with dazzling views of Lake Trasimeno, and savoring fresh, seasonal ingredients and local specialties, and more.
• Expert-led visits and hands-on learning including cooking classes master traditional Italian recipes like torta al testo, pappardelle pasta, and pici, pomarola sauce.
• Elegant hotels and resorts that offer comfort, true Italian hospitality, and historic charm

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Italy: Welcome to Chianti

Arrive in Florence today and transfer to the charming Villa il Poggiale, nestled in the picturesque hills of Chianti. After settling into this historic retreat hotel, the journey begins with a welcome reception, followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. Tonight’s menu begins with a selection of crostini followed by local comfort food such as pollo alla cacciatore, Tuscan cannellini beans, and more. And of course, good wine and lovely conversation.

Included Meals: Reception, Dinner
Accommodations: Villa il Poggiale

Day 2: Pasta & Tomato

Start your day with a delightful breakfast, then head out this morning to visit Pastificio Fabbri and explore the museum and pasta workshop. Learn about the milling process of grains, the difference between ancient and modern varieties, and contrast industrial and artisanal-made pasta. See the historic collection of 1950s production machines, visit the pasta drying rooms and learn how gluten is created in the pasta. We will return to the hotel for some time at leisure. Late this afternoon roll up your sleeves for a private cooking class where you will make fresh pasta such as the thick ribboned pappardelle and prepare pomarola, a traditional Tuscan tomato sauce. Savor the fruits of your labor with a delicious dinner featuring fresh pasta and pomarola sauce.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Villa il Poggiale

Day 3: Umbrian Flavors: Olive Oil and Torta al Testo

Check out of the hotel this morning and drive into the region of Umbria, begin today’s flavor journey at the Centumbrie estate, renowned for its olive oil production. Stroll through the picturesque olive groves, then join an extra virgin olive oil sommelier for an exclusive tasting, noting the rich flavors of premium olive oil while taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Trasimeno.

Continue to Passignano sul Trasimeno, a charming lakeside town, where you will have free time to wander, relax, and enjoy an independent lunch. Check into Il Cantico della Natura resort in the Umbrian countryside this afternoon. Later, roll up your sleeves for a cooking class to make Torta al Testo, an Umbrian flatbread cooked on a traditional griddle. Discover the variety of savory fillings, including sausage, local greens, and artisanal cheeses, that transform this rustic bread into a delicious sandwich. As the sun sets, enjoy an aperitivo complete with local wines, torta al testo breads, Norcia salumi and pecorino cheeses, overlooking the lake.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Aperitivo
Accommodations: Il Cantico della Natura

Day 4: Market day in Orvieto

After breakfast, set off for Orvieto, one of Umbria’s most enchanting hill towns. A local guide leads you through its medieval streets and past the magnificent façade of the duomo. Wander through the lively weekly market, where vibrant stalls brim with seasonal produce, and stop at a local bakery to taste lumachelle, a local bread filled with pecorino cheese and pancetta. Lunch will be at a charming goat farm nestled in the rolling hills outside Orvieto. Meet the cheesemakers, learn about their artisanal cheese production, and then sit back for a light tasting lunch under the trees!

In the afternoon, head to Todi and enjoy time explore this picturesque town at your own pace. Before heading back to the hotel, indulge in a scoop (or two!) of creamy perfection at the best gelateria in town!

After a full day of flavors and discoveries, return to the hotel, where the evening is yours to enjoy. Whether you choose to unwind at the spa or enjoy a leisurely dinner at the hotel’s restaurant (or venture out with a little help from the concierge), this is the perfect time to relax and savor the magic of Umbria.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Il Cantico della Natura

Day 5: Quinto Sapore Organic Farm (famed from the Stanley Tucci series) & Citta della Pieve

Take your time this morning and enjoy a leisurely breakfast—maybe a second cappuccino? Today is all about slowing down and savoring the best of Umbria. Late this morning head out to Quinto Sapore, a renowned organic farm that has captured the attention of famous chefs and even made an appearance on Stanley Tucci’s series! While strolling through the gardens, learn about the incredible variety of seasonal vegetables grown here and how the owners are cultivating heirloom varieties of different fruits and vegetables—a true celebration of the Mediterranean bounty. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch here. Simple, delicious food – a real flavor party! Take an early evening drive into the beautiful hill town of Città della Pieve and then enjoy an evening stroll, like the locals. A local guide leads you through the medieval winding alleys, working up a little appetite before finding your own perfect spot for dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Il Cantico della Natura

Day 6: Herbs, Saffron & Legumes

Head to the Renaissance city of Florence this morning! Today’s culinary discoveries begin by learning about the aromatic herbs and spices, particularly saffron, that have shaped Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Saffron is one of the world’s most treasured and expensive spices that is grown here in central Italy. Learn about the history, cultivation, and uses of saffron at Casa del Zafferano, before sampling liqueurs and olive oil infused with saffron and local cookies baked with it. Get a glimpse into the region’s rich tradition of cultivating lentils, chickpeas (possibly Suzy’s favorite bean), and heirloom beans at a local farm. After the tour, a farm-to-table lunch features these flavorful legumes in dishes such as fagioli all’uccelletto (cannellini beans cooked with tomatoes and olive oil).

On arrival in Florence check into your centrally located hotel. The evening is at leisure, whether you choose a cozy trattoria or a candlelit dinner with a view of the Arno, or perhaps take an evening stroll and enjoy a creamy, dreamy gelato while taking in the vibrant energy of the evening passeggiata through the historic streets of Florence.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Cellai Boutique Hotel Florence

Day 7: A Florentine Feast: Market Treasures & Tuscan Traditions

This morning begins at the Sant’Ambrogio Market, one of the city’s most vibrant and authentic food markets. Led by a chef from the legendary Cibrèo restaurant, browse the stalls, handpicking seasonal produce, fresh herbs, and the best local ingredients for your cooking class. Since 1979, Cibrèo has been a symbol of true Tuscan cuisine, honoring tradition with passion and care. Step into the kitchen to prepare a selection of classic dishes such as Crostini ai Fegatini (Tuscan pâté) and Panzanella. After dining on this morning’s creations, take time to relax back at the hotel or explore Florence at your own pace—visiting one of the many artistic highlights in the city or shopping for some perfect gifts to take home. Stroll through the iconic squares and streets of Florence, passing Piazza della Signora and over the Ponte Vecchio to dinner. A local guide will talk about the founding of Florence and point out the grand architecture that made Florence the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Your special journey with The Mediterranean Dish concludes with a festive farewell dinner at Trattoria Camillo. This old-world gem, with its white tablecloths and monogrammed plates, has perfected the art of simple, yet exquisite Tuscan food, where every dish shines with the best seasonal ingredients

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Cellai Boutique Hotel, Florence

Day 8: Breakfast and Goodbyes

After breakfast, depart for individual flights home.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodations

Villa Il Poggiale, Chianti (2 nights)

Villa Il Poggiale is a restored Renaissance villa in Tuscany’s Chianti region, offering elegant ambiance, lush gardens, a spa, and gourmet dining. Its serene countryside setting near San Casciano blends historic charm with refined hospitality and modern comforts.

Il Cantico della Natura Eco Resort, Umbrian countryside (3 nights)

Set in Umbria’s hills near Lake Trasimeno, Il Cantico della Natura blends rustic elegance with eco-conscious comfort. Guest rooms feature natural materials, panoramic views, and seasonal themes. Amenities include a pool, spa, organic dining, and tranquil gardens, all within a restored 17th-century farmhouse.

Cellai Boutique Hotel, Florence (2 nights)

Cellai Boutique Hotel is a charming 4-star boutique property with a welcoming ambiance. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo, it offers easy access to Florence’s historic center. The decor features antique furnishings, velvet accents, and a small rooftop. Rooms are stylish yet cozy, with modern amenities. Guests enjoy free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a library bar.

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