The Rough Guide to Foodies' Italy: A 7 Day Trip Plan

Indulge in a culinary odyssey through Italy's gastronomic heartland with our exclusive trip plan for food-lovers, designed by a Rough Guides expert author. This trip promises an unforgettable six-night getaway, tailored to foodie adults aged 25+, without kids. Our curated itinerary offers a chance to explore the flavours of Piedmont, Liguria and Emilia Romagna in a journey that promises to delight your taste buds and immerse you in rich culinary traditions. 

Your journey commences in Alba and Canelli, where the famed white truffles and sparkling wines reign supreme. Discover charming Medieval castles and small towns offering big flavours, or engage in truffle hunting escapades with local experts and relish in the enchanting aromas of this rare delicacy. Delight in tours of historic wineries in Canelli, where the effervescent allure of Italian sparkling wines comes to life. Continuing to Barbaresco, you'll explore vineyards that produce the exquisite local wine, and partake in tastings that reveal the complexities of this revered vintage.

In Genoa, a maritime haven, succumb to the city's unique culinary traditions. Immerse yourself in a cooking class to learn the art of crafting Genovese pesto, a flavour-packed local speciality. Venturing to Parma and Reggio Emilia, the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar, your palate will be enriched with exceptional flavours. Visit artisan shops selling these iconic products, indulge in dishes making the best use of them at our specially selected restaurants, and round it all off with the finest gelato.

Continue on to Modena, Bologna and Rimini, the culmination of your journey, where pasta, balsamic vinegar, and gastronomic delights await. Hit the markets to see the freshest of produce and enjoy some fine snacks, sample the best pasta at the cities' restaurants, and work up an appetite for it all by exploring the local art treasures and taking in views from atop Bologna's Torre degli Asinelli.

Throughout your expedition, you will be guided to soak up local culture and history. Our expert author will share their best tips: uncover hidden covers, point you towards delightful cafes and gelaterias, and generally maximise your experience of each place you visit. And throughout, stay in charming, hand-picked accommodations that reflect the character of the region, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

This meticulously curated trip plan celebrates Italy's culinary heritage, providing hands-on experiences and helping you to make the most of the time you're in Italy. Our trips are designed to provide you with the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, ideal for adults travelling without kids, who love to eat well and try local dishes, then walk it all off on this active trip that takes in 10 separate cities.

Order your trip plan now for this unforgettable journey, where culture, cuisine and adventure converge. Our short break trip plans are tailor-made for travellers seeking an immersive and enriching escape, where every moment counts and memories are made to last a lifetime. Experience the vibrancy and soul of these incredible Italian cities without losing time planning or wondering what to do next. Instead, follow this curated plan and get set to indulge in the finest culinary delights Italy has to offer.