Italian Culinary Experiences Fit for Royalty

From beautiful the canals of Venice and the historic palazzos by the sea in Sicily to open air-dining in the streets of Siena after watching the Palio, these exclusive culinary offerings feature true cultural immersion through the country's regional traditions and cuisines.

Live Like a Royal: Attend a Gala at a Venetian Palace

For one night in Venice, guests will live the life of a noble Venetian aristocrat as they are whisked away aboard a private water taxi to a gala dinner set in a palace overlooking the Grand Canal. It will be an evening of total sensory experiences while guests linger over cocktails and dinner in this extremely unique historic mansion that has welcomed a legendary A-List from today's Hollywood set to the Doges of Venice and Italian Nobility.



Sicilian Cooking Traditions Revealed in a 19th Century Sicilian Kitchen

The sea meets the mountains in Catania's authentic recipes featuring an incredible variety of dishes and flavors that spring from the cultural melting pot that is Sicilian fare. Guests who seek to learn more about Sicily's culinary fusion can embark on a gastronomical adventure beginning with a guided tour of Pescheria (the traditional fish market). After purchasing local ingredients, head to a stunning 19th century kitchen of the Catania Historical Society for a cooking class where traditional dishes, such as spaghetti rolls alla Norma, pasta with squid ink and ricotta cheese or with anchovies and wild fennel, fish meatballs (whitebait), caponata, cannolo or the so-called "St. Agatha's breasts" will be prepared and savored.



Cooking by the Sea in Sicily with The Duchess

This is not a simple cooking lesson in an 18th century palazzo by the sea. It's a fascinating journey through Sicilian culture and food. Rise early, meet 'The Duchess' and follow her through a colorful local market to buy the seasons freshest ingredients. Throughout her tour, The Dutchess will share hidden treasures of Palermo, one of the most intriguing cities of the Mediterranean. In the spacious and historic kitchen at her palazzo, guests will learn to cook a whole Sicilian menu under The Duchess' guidance. After lunch in the elegant dining room, enjoy a tour of the lush terrace and the beautifully restored palazzo, the last home of Prince Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, author of the world-famous novel The Leopard.



Dine in the Streets of Siena During the Palio with a Contrada

Twice a year, the 17 districts or contrade of Siena compete against each other in the world-renown race, the Palio di Siena. On one of the two race days - July 2 or August 16 - guests will enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of the Palio Horse Race in Siena and dine with one of the district teams in the afternoon. Belissimo! Prior to the race, guests will assist with the medieval parade that showcases all the teams in their colorful dress and, of course, the beautiful horses. Later, after guests catch their breath from watching the legendary horse-race, they will join one of the contradas for their open air dinner - hopefully it is the winning district!

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Based in Perugia, Italy and founded in 2007, Discover Your Italy was born from a passion for travel and a genuine love of the country. Owned and operated by Italian husband and wife team of Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli, Discover Your Italy offers clients the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country as a local through the people and their traditions digging deeper into the cultural heart of Italy with true insider access. In fact, the company's name, Fuoritinerario, was derived from a combination of Italian words literally meaning "Off the Beaten Path." Ranging from private to small group tours, Discover Your Italy handcrafts each guest experience ensuring a balance of both "must see" sites and undiscovered locales. Itineraries can be themed by interest such as, art, history, culinary, wine and romance, enabling guests to truly discover "their own Italy." Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for assistance, all guides are highly skilled, knowledgeable English speaking professionals who are born, raised, and live in the regions where they conduct tours. Discover Your Italy is a member of Club ITALIA di ENIT (The National Tourism Agency) and ASTA (American Association of Travel Agents). For more information, please visit www.discoveryouritaly.com.