What’s the recipe for a memorable trip to Italy?
Small custom trips to Italy offer flexibility, personalization, and a more authentic experience compared to large group tours. This fall's travelers to Sardinia enjoyed many memorable moments. Among them:
Crowding into a small and slightly dank room in an ancient stone building one evening, our group sampled wine vintages made from Sardinia's vernaccia grapes, which yield wine similar to sherry or port, drawn directly from the barrrels and explained by the winemaker.
A local fisherman showed us how he catches mullet in the brackish lagoons near Oristano on coastal Sardinia, then personally cleaned and cooked the fish over a wood-fired grill for our group. He enlisted one of the group to try helping fillet the catch, a bit more authentic experience than others preferred—but everyone ate!
Our small boutique hotel in Nurachi featured artwork created as part of the building itself. Hearing us marvel at these pieces, our host quickly arranged a visit to artist Marco Pili's studio, where we enjoyed an exclusive look at works in progress shown by the artist himself.
After an already excellent final dinner at Dal Pittore in Cagliari, chef Renato Bacchetta overheard that I wished I'd tried the gnocchi with truffle. Shortly thereafter, he returned to prepare the dish tableside as we watched – a gift, at no charge.
Viaggi di Gusto travelers have more flexibility to set their pace, choose or change activities, and take advantage of these special moments – avoiding the rigid schedules and generic expriences of large group tours. With us you'll discover greater value finding “real” Italy – something that's getting harder to achieve as travelers overcrowd typical destinations where those big outfits each send tens of thousands of people a year.
Whether you travel with Viaggi di Gusto or not, here’s my recipe to create memorable experiences in Italy:
Giuseppe Sedilesu, 95, with our driver and me, greeted our group at the Sardinia winery he founded that still bears his name. His wines, mainly cannonau, can be hard to get outside the region. Our trips introduce you to local artisans and everyday life off the usual tourist path. © viaggidigusto.com
Flexibility and control
Set your own schedule and itinerary: Viaggi di Gusto handles all the plans but includes time for you to enjoy activities that fit your special interests. We also visit smaller towns that larger group tours can't easily access: Being part of a big group limits what you can do.
Avoid the herd: You'll rarely have to compromise on preferences for food, activities, or daily pace when you travel with a small group. Enjoy a leisurely apertivo instead of joining a queue for the motorcoach or cruise ship.
Authentic, immersive experiences
Deeper cultural connections: Our itineraries don't pack your days full with frenetic sightseeing and frequent moves. Our slower pace delivers more meaningful interactions and allows deeper appreciation of local culture.
Access to local experts: You can be paired with local guides who provide in-depth, personalized knowledge in each of our off-the-beaten-path destinations.
More time for spontaneity: You have time and freedom for personal exploration and spontaneous discoveries, instead of following a rigid schedule.
Personalization
Meet new companions: In small-group travel, you get to know each other better than in large, randomly matched groups. Many of our travelers stay in touch after a trip is over, and many also join us again!
Handpicked guides: When we set up guided tours, we work with local experts we've known for years to tailor unhurrried, interesting visits where you can ask questions and later explore on your own.
Credible advice
Getting recommendations from people who’ve been to Italy, and consulting advisors who design highly rated custom trips regularly, is critical. As our testimonials attest, in 2026 you can enjoy wine and culinary journeys to Italy that are unlike any ordinary vacation—they're designed for travelers who crave authentic flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and meaningful connections.
It's more convenient than ever to join us on a small-group trip – sign up for a 2026 waitlist with no obligation, to make sure you have a spot. Or, pick from a menu of custom tours for six or more: You choose when to go, and who goes with you. Make easy and secure online transactions for any type of trip when you decide to go.
Our small-group approach means space is limited, and many trips sell out months in advance. Let's start the conversation now.