Topping lists and breaking records for visitor numbers, Italy is the world’s greatest destination. Certain hotspots like Rome and Venice have become flooded with holidaymakers over the years and some places are losing their charm due to over-tourism. Yet, if you know where to look, that authentic Italia of your dreams still exists. By booking unique experiences with Italy Charme, the heart and soul of this enticing country can be revealed.

Moreno is the CEO of Italy Charme. He began this agency with the purpose of helping travelers experience real Italian culture. Having spent 10 years exploring the country from top to bottom, he uncovered a wellspring of cultural treasures represented by the many artisans, chefs and innkeepers that make up the land. This wealth of knowledge is something he now wants to share with others, so they can live out their own Italian journey.

Being a renaissance man, Moreno prioritizes quality above everything else. His tours showcase Italy in spectacular ways – history unfolds before your very eyes and traditions combine beautifully with modernity. For many, a trip to Italy is a once in a lifetime adventure and therefore it needs to be given the care and love that it deserves. Let Moreno design your trip, or book one of his unique experiences that are all packaged and ready to go.

Unique Experiences in Italy

1. Perfume Workshop in Florence

The Perfume Workshop is one of the most unique experiences in Italy. Florence is known as fragrant heaven and there are many ateliers which have kept this tradition alive. In this one day workshop, guests are taken behind the scenes and into the laboratories where ancient perfume creations are produced. Learn about the ingredients which go into this Florentine art and finish the day by taking home your own special aroma.

2. Ferrari Driving Experience in Chianti

Driving through the rolling hills of Tuscany is an exciting prospect and it’s made even more exhilarating when you are behind the wheel of a Ferrari. This luxury sports car is a symbol of the Italian automotive industry and its design, comfort and speed will take your breath away if you have never driven one before. Italy Charme can organize the car rental, documents, fuel and tolls so you can enjoy cruising past Tuscan villages in style.

3. Gourmet Le Marche & Truffle Hunting

The eastern region of Le Marche is often overlooked by travelers and what a shame because the culture, history, landscape and produce here is second to none. Moreno’s mission on this eight day tour is to help you get under the skin of Le Marche – introducing you to the rural local artisans who make this area tick through their small family-run businesses. Highlights include truffle hunting and searching for local delicacies on a daily basis.

4. Self-Drive Gourmet Sardinia

Sardinia is a gem that boasts sparkling beaches, wild interiors and charming towns. The best way to see the second largest island in the Med is to drive along the coast and into the hinterland. A 15-day self-drive tour gives you everything you need to soak up the epic landscapes and seascapes, spot hidden gems and taste the cuisine. Gourmet activities like lunch with shepherds and vineyards will leave you hungry for more.

5. Milan Fashion Week

Twice a year, during autumn/winter and spring/summer, the Milan Fashion Week takes place. This trade show is a glamorous affair that highlights the top global fashion trends. Opulent corners and palaces open their doors to designers who display their outfits down the catwalk. For one remarkable day come along to the shows, to the boutiques in the shopping districts, to fine-dining restaurants and to the parties hosted by renowned brands.

6. Spiritual Hiking – Cammino di San Francesco

They say all roads lead to Rome and this is certainly the case on Cammino di San Francesco or Via Francigena. This pilgrimage walk spans over 3,000 kilometers – from Canterbury in the UK, through Switzerland and France, and down to Rome and Apulia in Italy. The experience offered by Italy Charme, luckily, doesn’t involve hiking for thousands of kilometers. Rather, it’s just a lovely small section of Via Francigena from Lucca to Siena.

7. Handcrafted Calabria

Calabria is the region that makes up the “toe” of the boot-shaped Italy. This eight day tour with Italy Charme starts in the romantic city of Matera (in Apulia) which is home to stunning ancient buildings and cave dwellings. The next destination on the itinerary crosses you into Calabria – that of Cosenza. From here you will get to visit the fascinating towns of Civita and Altomonte. Later on, the picturesque beach town of Tropea awaits.

8. Sicily Food & Wine

No trip to Italy is complete without visiting Sicily – the ancient and iconic Med island – but it’s one of those places that needs to be done right, otherwise you will leave disappointed. This is why Moreno has devised a tour which slows everything down to get an in-depth look at authentic Sicilian culture. 11 days gives you ample time to meet the local people, learn about the rich history, and of course try your fair share of food and wine.

9. Vintage Car Experience

Day trips don’t get any cooler than hopping into a vintage car and exploring magical places such as Tuscany or Piedmont. The first step to making a road trip perfect is choosing the car that suits you best. Can you see yourself driving a classic Maserati, an Alfa Romeo Barchetta or perhaps a Fiat 500? Whichever vehicle you end up selecting, the amazing landscapes and hills of either the Chianti or Langhe area are waiting.

10. Highlights of Apulia

Apulia has everything Italophiles desire. Whitewashed towns, quirky architecture, hidden beaches and fresh food inspired by the long stretch of Med coastline – what’s not to love about Puglia? As the name suggests, this week long trip with Italy Charme takes travelers to the main points of interest on the heel of Italy’s boot such as Bari, Monopoli, Polignano a Mare and Lecce – with a handful of secret spots thrown in the mix as well.

11. Dolomites Active Tour

The Dolomites are an adventurer’s playground with so many extraordinary landscapes to immerse yourself in. Starting and ending in Milan, but mostly based in Trento (the gateway city to the Dolomites), this action-packed 10 day hiking tour is full of surprises. Alongside walking, expect to partake in a winery tour and tackle the mountains in the form of biking or kayaking. You definitely need to have an adventurous spirit for this particular trip.