Real Italy, real experiences

The old adage of  'When in Rome, do as the Romans do' perfectly conveys the promise to deliver you the Real Italy, and there’s no better way to do this than with hands-on activities that bring you closer to local people. Did you know that the famous 'When in Rome' proverb was attributed to the theologian and philosopher Saint Augustine, during a conversation between Saint Ambrose about how different Italian cities had fasting days? Immerse yourself in the local culture with a pick of Real Experiences.

Take a private one-hour excursion to a boutique workshop on Murano Island and learn the traditional craft of glassblowing with a Murano maestro. Glassmaking has evolved over the centuries, yet Murano remains one of a few places in the world where the old-fashioned method reigns. The expert workmanship of basic tools and fire result in beautiful, unique vases, jewellery, and sculptures that hold the acclaimed Murano Glass trademark.

Italian perfume has been renowned since the 14th century. Venice was the world hub of perfumery for several hundred years, which is why this city is the obvious location to learn the perfumery craft. At Palazzo Mocenigo, a former aristocratic residence turned museum, you’ll spend two hours being guided through the complex world of aroma and its history as you concoct your own personalised perfume to take home.

Venture through Palermo’s streets on this wonderful, guided walking tour. Wander through the city’s street markets and historic squares in a small group as your guide regales you with historic tales. You will be taken into establishments favoured by real Sicilians, including bakeries and old inns, and given the chance to sample classic Palermitan street food. Your final stop is at the renowned Capuchins’ catacombs.

Experience a mesmerising sunset with an evening tour of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. You and your fellow companions will be driven through lush landscapes that make way for lunar-like lava. As the terrain gets bumpy, switch to off-road vehicles. Your final leg is an exhilarating 30-minute trek with your expert alpine guide. With the volcanic heat underfoot, watch as the sky illuminates into a spellbinding palette of orange hues before it descends into darkness. After the drama, tuck into a typical Sicilian dinner with wine in an inviting mountain chalet.

Skip-the-lines and avoid the usual crowds of the Vatican Museums with an exclusive Friday evening visit. Your expert professional guide will shed light on the Gallery of Tapestries and The Geographical Maps, Raphael's Rooms, the Vatican Library, and Michelangelo’s epic Sistine Chapel. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can enjoy dinner at the Vatican City's restaurant, Le Carrozze.

What better way to explore the Tuscany countryside than taking a ride on an iconic symbol of Italy, a Vespa scooter? In a small group, your guide will help you navigate the Chianti Hills, unearthing sleepy medieval villages along the way. This fun-filled full day experience includes a stop for a light Tuscan lunch and guided winery tour at a renowned local vineyard.

Start your day in the heart of Florence with a three-hour hands-on cooking class. Your local chef will introduce you to the history of two Italian classics: pizza and gelato. Learn the all-important dough stretching technique, and pizza sauce secrets. For the gelato you’ll gain insights into sourcing the best raw ingredients and developing natural colours, as well as heating and freezing techniques. Afterwards, sit down with your small group and tuck into your final creations together.

Experience the beauty of Tuscany with an afternoon excursion to the medieval town of Siena. Before the sun sets, wander the narrow streets and marvel at the magnificent architecture, including the world-famous Piazza del Campo. You’ll then head to a typical wine estate in the heart of the Chianti region. Experience a romantic dinner under the stars in the midst of a long-established vineyard. Tuck into local produce, including salami, bruschetta, and other delicacies, while sipping on precious wines that have been personally selected by the winery owners.

Experience a hands-on authentic cooking class in one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The traditional Ristorante Taverna della Torre opens its kitchen to you and other guests for a 45-minute lesson. You’ll have the chance to prepare two specialty pastas that are typical of Cisternino and the Itria Valley: orecchiette and taralli. Afterwards, tuck into a local lunch, which features local cheeses and specially selected Puglian wine.

Experience a half day bike tour through Itria Valley. An experienced team will help you select a suitable bike and then you’re off on this guided bike ride! This is a 24-mile round trip where you’ll be taken along small country roads dotted with rural houses and traditional trulli, and through various small towns and villages, including Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Cisternino.

Head to Il Frantolio di D'Amico Pietro, an organic farm that has been producing fine Italian extra virgin olive oil since 1917. In the factory you’ll be let in on the generations-old family secrets: the different olive varieties and how they are hand-picked, and the choice of extraction processes. Finish your experience in the tasting room to sample this award-winning Apulian olive oil.

There are so many different experiences to enjoy. Citalia are the UK’s leading Italy specialist with over 90 years' experience in tailoring holidays to Italy. Are you ready to try an authentic experience?

Visit citalia.com to discover the real Italy on your next adventure.

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