Italy doesn’t need a sales pitch — its charm speaks for itself. But if you’re after experiences that go beyond the postcard-perfect views and tourist hotspots, Collette’s tours are your ticket to Italy’s unscripted magic. From volcanoes to truffles to cave dwellings, here are five moments that will stay with you long after you’ve unpacked your bags.

Authentic Wine & Homemade Pasta in Northern Italy

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Valdobbiadene, the Fasol Menin winery invites you to immerse yourself in the art of Italian winemaking. On Collette’s Spotlight on Northern Italy tour, you'll savor the crisp effervescence of prosecco as you learn about the heritage of this celebrated sparkling wine. Then, channel your inner chef during a hands-on cooking class where you’ll craft fresh pasta from scratch and pair it with seasonal ingredients and local wines. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and toast to la dolce vita with your new travel buddies.

Go Off-Roading on Mount Etna 4x4 in Sicily

Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, is an icon of Sicily’s rugged beauty. Get up close and personal with it during a 4x4 adventure across its lunar-like landscape. Guided by experts, you’ll pass by ancient lava flows and basalt rocks, taking in surreal views that stretch as far as the Ionian Sea. For those who crave a bit of adrenaline with their exploration, this off-roading escapade is an absolute must. Experience it on Collette’s small group tour, Old World Sicily & Malta.

Wander Through an Enchanting Lemon Grove on the Amalfi Coast

Imagine strolling through a sunlit grove where the air is perfumed with the zesty aroma of ripening lemons. On Collette’s small group Amalfi Coast to Puglia tour, you’ll visit the charming town of Minori to explore one of these famed seaside lemon groves. Learn about the centuries-old cultivation techniques that produce the sfusato lemon and sample locally made limoncello before hiking along the Path of the Lemons, a trail that weaves between terraced orchards and offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast's turquoise waters.

Go Truffle Hunting in the Umbrian Countryside

In Umbria, Italy’s green heart, uncover treasures of the earth. Join a local truffle hunter and their specially trained dogs for an authentic truffle-hunting experience on Collette’s Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside tour. As you wander through oak forests in search of these prized delicacies, you’ll gain insight into the dedication and knowledge required for this age-old practice. The rewards? A home-cooked meal featuring freshly unearthed truffles and other local flavors. It’s a true farm-to-table experience like no other.

Overnight in Stone Dwellings in Matera

Step back in time in Matera, a city that feels like a living museum. On Collette’s Amalfi Coast to Puglia tour, you’ll stay in traditional cave dwellings nestled in the UNESCO-listed Sassi district. These ancient stone homes, carved into the hillside, offer a unique blend of historical authenticity and modern comfort. As you wander Matera’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets and admire its stunning rock-hewn churches, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another era. An overnight stay here is an opportunity to connect with the Italian landscape like never before.

Ready to turn your dream Italian adventure into reality? Discover these unforgettable experiences and more — find your perfect tour today!