Highlights of the North
What makes this journey special
A cultural and culinary journey through Northern and Central Italy, from the vineyards of Piedmont to the medieval hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria. Discover fascinating borghi such as Civita di Bagnoregio and Poppi, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the vineyard landscapes of Monferrato and the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, and experience the regions through wine and olive oil tastings and walks through the surrounding landscapes. Small groups, private transport and carefully selected agriturismi combine comfort with an authentic sense of place. This Best Of version of “The North” brings together some of the highlights of the longer journey – ideal for those with less time who would still like to discover its distinctive places, flavours and stories.
Next dates
Days
Journey character
CULTURE
FOOD
NATURE
RELAXATION
ACTIVITY
The journey at a glance
Regions
Piedmont, Liguria, Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio
Group size
6 to 16 travelers
Travel style
small-group, cultural immersion, culinary moments
Accommodation type
agriturismo and b&b
Transport
private
Starting point
Milano Malpensa Airport or Novara train station
End point
Rome Fiumicino Airport or Rome city center
The Hidden Moments
- The UNESCO-listed vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato in Piedmont
- A hands-on pesto cooking class in the Ligurian town of Levanto
- The historic monastery of La Verna, set amid the forests of the Tuscan Apennines
- An olive oil tasting in the Umbrian countryside
- The medieval village of Civita di Bagnoregio, a surreal village seemingly suspended in time
THE ITINERARY
The journey, day by day
Day overview
After breakfast, discover the landscapes of Monferrato on a walk through the countryside. In Castagnole Monferrato, explore the vineyards and learn more about the region’s wine traditions before enjoying a wine tasting. The day ends with dinner and another night in the peaceful surroundings of the agriturismo.
What’s included
in this journey
In carefully selected agriturismi and b&bs
14 meals
7 breakfasts, 7 dinners
Personal travel guidance
Small-group support throughout the journey
11 experiences
Guided visits, walks, cultural experiences
3 culinary experiences
Tastings, cooking classes, visit to local producers
Transport
Private transfers throughout he journey
What is not included
- Travel arrangements to/from Italy
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips
- Lunches and services not specified
Download all the information about the journey here
Your The North tour starts here!
Highlights of the North
EUR 2090,00*
*Price per person in double room.
Single room possible at extra charge of a total of EUR 300,00.
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What our travellers say
”Every journey leaves a story behind. We’re still collecting some of those shared by our travellers — stories of people met, places discovered and flavours remembered. Perhaps yours will be among them.
Good to know, frequently asked
Where does the journey start and end?
The journey begins with an individual arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport or Novara train station, where the group meets before setting off through northern and central Italy. The journey ends at Rome Fiumicino Airport or in Rome city centre, from where you can continue your journey independently.
What interests does this journey focus on?
This journey brings together culture, history, landscapes, local traditions and culinary heritage across five regions of Italy. From UNESCO-listed vineyards and medieval villages to historic monasteries, local crafts, wine and olive oil, each destination offers a different perspective on the places and people of Italy.
How physically demanding is this journey?
This is a moderate-paced journey, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable walking for longer periods, including during town visits, guided walks and cultural experiences. Some historic villages and rural sites include steps, slopes, cobbled streets or uneven surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
How much free time will I have?
The itinerary combines organised experiences with time to enjoy the destinations at your own pace. As the Best Of version is a shorter edition of our 15-day journey The North, it follows the same route while focusing on its key destinations and highlights. The pace is slightly more compact, but there is still room to wander, stop for a coffee or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
How will we get around during the journey?
Private transfers are provided throughout the journey, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience from one destination to the next. Sit back, take in the changing landscapes and enjoy the journey along the way.
What kind of experiences are included?
This journey brings together a curated selection of cultural, culinary and scenic highlights from the longer edition of The North. The Best Of edition offers a taste of northern and central Italy, from historic towns and landscapes to local traditions, food and wine.
Is this journey suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Solo travellers are very welcome on all our journeys. You can either share a double room or, subject to availability, book a room for single use at the applicable supplement.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
We stay in carefully selected agriturismi and b&bs, chosen for their character, comfort and location. Especially in rural areas, agriturismi offer an authentic setting and a wonderful opportunity to experience the slower rhythm and landscapes of Italy.
How is the 8-day best of journey different from the 15-day journey?
The 8-day journey brings together a carefully selected collection of highlights from the longer edition of The North, offering a more compact introduction to northern and central Italy. It is ideal for those with less time who still want to experience the character, landscapes and traditions of several regions in one journey.
Is this journey suitable if I have never been to Italy before?
Absolutely. The journey offers a broad introduction to Italy while going beyond the country’s most familiar destinations. You will discover different regions, landscapes, traditions and ways of life – making it ideal both for first-time visitors and for those who already know Italy’s classic sights and want to discover a quieter, more authentic side of the country.
STORIES AND PEOPLE
Discover the places & stories behind this journey

Seven Generations of Lemon Growing on the Amalfi Coast

From the Forests of Monferrato to the Table

Painting Emotions: Art, Colours & the Strength Within
