Italy with Liz Marek

Dates

Jun 12–17, 2024

Group Size

10–24 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Italian fantasies come to life with legendary cuisine, magnificent architecture, and timeless art pieces; wine tastings in vineyards and a breathtaking coastline; afternoon espressos and sidewalk cafes. What the Italians call 'la dolce vita,' or ‘the sweet life,' is yours for the taking. Benvenuto in Italia!
$3,250USD
$3,495USD
Jun 12–17, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

sugargeekshow
sugargeekshow

I'm an artist and cake decorator from Portland, Oregon. Cakes are my obsession, which is why I'm dedicated to crafting tried-and-true recipes, small cake tutorials, as well as advanced online cake courses!

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Trip Activities

  • Milan City Cycle Tour

  • Cooking Demonstration with a Milano Chef

  • Lake Como Tour

  • Bellagio Lakeside Village Visit

  • Boat Ride from Bellagio to Tremezzo

  • Franciacorta Sparkling Wine Tour and Tasting

  • Venetian Water Taxi

  • Gondola Ride on the Canals

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Happy hours and meet and greet

Informal Gathering
Join us for an informal gathering in the hotel restaurant to get to know each other before we head to dinner!

Venice Photoshoot

Informal Gathering
Feel free to explore Venice on your own or join Liz for a fun and fancy photoshoot! Outfits and locations will be planned at a later date before the trip.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Italy, known for its spectacular cities, ancient ruins, wonderful museums, and beautiful natural scenery. Settle in and get ready for an incredible trip.

Airport Transfer

45 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Malpensa International Airport (MXP), between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.

Happy hours and meet and greet

Join us for an informal gathering in the hotel restaurant to get to know each other before we head to dinner!

dinner

Get to know the group! Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included.

Hotel NYX Milan (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Milan.

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Day 2

Info

On your first full day in Italy, take in the sights of Milan on a bicycle tour, then later that afternoon, join a local chef for a traditional cooking class.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Milan City Cycle Tour

3 Hours

Explore the beautiful city of Milan on two wheels. Visit the artistic and historical areas and enjoy the hidden gems and magnificent architecture that the city has to offer.

Cooking Demonstration with a Milano Chef

3 Hours

Join a local chef this evening, for a crash course and demonstration in traditional Milanese cuisine.

dinner

Dinner is included in the cooking class.

Hotel NYX Milan (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Milan.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Today you will leave the city behind for the mountainous shores of Lake Como and the breathtaking Bellagio.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer to Bellagio

1 Hour 20 Mins

~1hr 20mins

Lake Como Tour

2 Hours

You will head out to the sparkling shores of Lake Como, taking in the glitzy villas and stunning lakeside villages.

Bellagio Lakeside Village Visit

1 Hour

Your local Guide will lead you past picturesque homes and through the maze of cobblestone staircases when you tour the charming lakeside village of Bellagio, on Lake Como.

Boat Ride from Bellagio to Tremezzo

1 Hour

Board a boat for a relaxing cruise around Lake Como. Enjoy unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains, the stunning lakeside villages, and the colorful homes and villas nestled within the lush greenery of the hillsides.

Transfer to Milan

1 Hour 15 Mins

~1hr 15mins

Hotel NYX Milan (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Milan.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

Today you will leave Milan and head to Venice. On the way, you will stop in the Franciacorta wine region for a tour and wine tasting. Then you'll head to your hotel the 'Venetian' way, on a canal water taxi.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Transfer to Franciacorta

1 Hour 45 Mins

~1hr 45mins

Franciacorta Sparkling Wine Tour and Tasting

2 Hours

Explore the wine region of Franciacorta, which specializes in sparkling wines. You'll take a tour of the grounds, try some cheese and charcuterie, and sample the wines.

Transfer to Venice

3 Hours

~3hrs

Venetian Water Taxi

20 Mins

Upon arrival in Venice, you will transfer to your hotel the Venetian way - canal water taxi.

Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Venice.

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Day 5

Info

After breakfast, you'll have a free day to explore the city. In the evening before dinner, you will join your Guide to enjoy a gondola ride and experience Venice from the water.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Venice Photoshoot

Feel free to explore Venice on your own or join Liz for a fun and fancy photoshoot! Outfits and locations will be planned at a later date before the trip.

Gondola Ride on the Canals

30 Mins

There is nothing more quintessentially Venetian than a gondola ride on the canal, relax and enjoy the experience!

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included.

Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Venice.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

All good things must come to an end! You'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

45 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), between 08:00 am and 11:00 am.

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

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Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.