A Culinary Journey Through Rural Romagna, Italy
Discover Italy's Best-Kept Culinary Secrets
Welcome to Romagna —”La Terra del Buon Vivere” (The Land of Life Well Lived). If you believe the best way to understand a culture is through its food, and you crave travel experiences that go deeper than the typical tourist finds, Esperienza is for you.
Esperienza offers two 8-day trips to experience the Culinary legacy of rural Italy
Food, Wine & Friends
Savoring the Culinary Creativity of Romagna
Explore the many delightful facets of the cuisine of Romagna. Whether you prefer fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, experiencing centuries-old trattorie and their passionate hosts or reveling in an exceptional home-cooked meal, if you believe in the connection between good food and good living, this trip is for you.
“Food, Wine & Friends” Highlights:
Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants where innovative chefs honor tradition while creating something extraordinary. Learn to craft pasta at the legendary Casa Artusi. Sip wines in a scenic vineyard overlooking panoramic views of the Italian countryside. Share dinner in a local chef's home, where warmth and genuine connection replace the typical tour group experience.
Explore medieval Cesenatico's Leonardo da Vinci-designed canal and the world's only floating museum. Wander through Cesena's UNESCO World Heritage library. Discover Rimini's Roman treasures and the birthplace of Federico Fellini. Encounter quiet beauty, rich culture, and the kind of authentic encounters that create lasting memories, as you immerse yourself in the cuisine of Italy - recognized by UNESCO for its unique cultural heritage.
The Art of Cooking & Eating
Hands-On Italian Culinary Experience
If you are looking for the gold standard of Italian cooking, this is an experience not to be missed. Go to the source to learn about the unique qualities of Italian cuisine, recognized by UNESCO for its contribution to the world. For those who are passionate about Italian cuisine, who enjoy the practical experience of home cooking and the joy of gathering around the table.
“The Art of Cooking & Eating” Highlights:
Learn from the experts at Casa Artusi, the Foundation and Cooking School devoted entirely to Italian home cookery. The very first center of gastronomic culture in Italy, Esperienza has partnered with them since our founding. Developed as part of our ongoing collaboration, this program will introduce you to the very best techniques, genuine ingredients, and above all, to the spirit of the Italian people and the culture that nourishes its culinary legacy every single day.
You’ll also visit UNESCO treasures in nearby towns and villages, including the glittering mosaics of Ravenna, and the centuries-old tradition of ceramic art in Faenza which attracts contemporary artists to its vibrant community. And most importantly, connect with locals along the way, whose passion will inspire you.
Travel That Transforms
Whichever trip you choose (or may we invite you to choose both?), this isn't just a vacation—it's an invitation to connect. To the passionate chefs interpreting centuries-old recipes. To the artisans who pour their hearts into their craft. To fellow travelers who, like you, believe good food and good living go hand in hand. Our intentionally small groups and unhurried pace give you time to truly experience each and every moment.
Meet The Makers
Learn directly from culinary experts and locals who pour their hearts into their craft. Hear their stories. Taste their creations. Understand the deep connection between land, tradition, creativity, and the plate in front of you.
On any Esperienza trip, you'll interact with the farmers, foragers, chefs, and artisans who embody the essence of Romagna's countryside. These aren't staged photo opportunities—they're genuine connections with people passionate about preserving their gastronomic heritage.
““With the small group size and all having a shared interest, I felt as if I had a private mentor... taking me through a phenomenal culinary journey.””
Why Choose Esperienza?
Expert Guidance: Travel with culinary experts who are passionate about sharing Romagna's authentic food culture and hidden gems known only to locals.
Small Groups, Big Experiences: Our intimate group size creates space for meaningful connections—with your fellow travelers, with locals, and with the places you visit.
Luxurious Comfort: Relax in carefully selected 4-star hotels that balance comfort with local character.
What’s Included?
7 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels
All transportation, including airport transfers
Breakfast daily plus additional meals showcasing Romagna's culinary traditions
Expert local guides who share insider knowledge
Comprehensive support from pre-arrival to departure
Customized advice for extending your Italian adventure
Traveling with Esperienza
Our human-scaled approach means no large tour buses, no rushed itineraries, no transactional experiences. Just authentic encounters, priceless moments, and the kind of fellowship that turns fellow travelers into friends.
Watch our video to get a taste of what traveling with Esperienza is really like—the laughter, the discoveries, the connections that make this journey truly transformative.
“This was the trip of a lifetime!”
Is This Trip For Me?
Solo travelers, couples, friends, food enthusiasts—all are welcome! This trip is best suited for those who are curious, adventurous, moderately active, and (of course) love good food and wine!
This trip is a perfect fit for you if:
You would rather experience one meaningful meal than check off ten restaurants.
You appreciate the opportunity for reflection, connection, and those unplanned moments of joy that become your favorite stories.
You have the capacity and desire to do a moderate amount of walking, both on your own and in a group.
About Esperienza
As a nonprofit travel organization, we're driven by something beyond the bottom line: a genuine love for rural Italy and a commitment to creating travel that benefits everyone involved. We plant trees, support local communities, and foster lasting connections between travelers and the remarkable people who call these places home.
Ready to Experience an Unforgettable Culinary Journey?
Delicious discoveries await in Romagna, Italy. Immerse yourself in its enchanting world, make lifelong connections, and return home filled with cherished memories and inspiration.
Want to Connect with Italy from home?
Check out our online programs here.