La Dolce Vita Orient Express: 2026 Venice & Portofino

Embark on an intimate evening journey through Venice’s quiet canals and hidden alleyways, revealing secret corners and a magical atmosphere. The highlight of the experience is a visit to Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a Gothic-Renaissance architectural gem offering panoramic views over the illuminated city. As the tour continues through silent courtyards, local legends and historic mysteries bring the city’s past to life. The evening culminates in an exclusive dining experience within the opulent halls of a noble Venetian palace. Surrounded by frescoes, candelabras, and refined dishes inspired by traditional local cuisine, this is a true taste of the Serenissima in its most enchanting form.

This exclusive guided tour is a celebration of Venice’s culinary heritage, featuring a curated selection of cicchetti (small tastings) and traditional flavours. As the journey unfolds through the enchanting calli, the vibrant backdrop of the city becomes the stage for an extraordinary gastronomic experience. The tastings include local delicacies such as sarde in saor and baccalà mantecato, as well as contemporary bites showcasing regional innovation. Thoughtfully paired wines accompany each dish, enhancing every flavour and revealing the artistry of Venetian cuisine. This immersive experience highlights the perfect balance between tradition and creativity, offering a multi-sensory journey through the spirit of the city, where each cicchetto pays tribute to generations of culinary mastery.

A luxurious journey begins with a Grand Canal tour leading to Piazza San Marco, where the city reveals its splendour in one of its most iconic cafés. Meandering through historic calli and campielli, fascinating tales emerge, unveiling the lesser-known side of Venice. The experience continues with exclusive after-hours access to the Doge’s Palace, an enduring symbol of Venetian power. In the stillness of the night, explore its silent corridors and magnificent halls, fully immersed in the palace’s grandeur. The evening concludes within the refined setting of a noble Venetian palazzo, where an intimate, private dinner is served. Rooted in tradition and steeped in elegance, this final chapter offers a taste of timeless sophistication.

Piazza San Marco

This enchanting experience begins in the iconic Piazzetta of Portofino, unfolding through the scenic alleyways of this charming fishing village. The walk leads to Castello Brown, a historic residence perched in a commanding position above the bay. Reserved exclusively for this visit, the castle provides a striking setting for an aperitivo overlooking the harbour. Within its ancient walls and gardens, discover the rich history and art of the estate. The day continues with a refined lunch at a traditional local restaurant, where Ligurian specialities are served in a warm and inviting atmosphere. This perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and gastronomy offers an unforgettable exploration of Portofino’s timeless elegance.

Portofino

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary tradition of Liguria with a hands-on cooking class in one of Portofino’s most picturesque settings. Under the guidance of a master pesto maker, learn the art of crafting fresh pasta and preparing traditional Pesto alla Genovese. From selecting fragrant basil to achieving the perfect balance of extra virgin olive oil, pine nuts, and a blend of Parmigiano and Pecorino cheeses, every element is explored with care. The experience continues with a relaxed lunch, featuring regional specialities made from the freshest ingredients. Set against a backdrop of coastal beauty, this culinary journey is a celebration of taste, tradition, and local craftsmanship.

This immersive experience takes place at La Portofinese eco-farm, where sustainable farming and traditional methods combine to create a unique vision of eco-luxury. Explore the grounds with a guided walk through lush gardens and animal enclosures, learning about responsible agriculture and the preservation of local products. Fresh ingredients can even be handpicked directly from the land. The visit concludes with an aperitivo and a farm-to-table lunch at Osteria dei Coppelli. Every dish reflects a respect for regional flavours, crafted from locally sourced produce. This is a refined yet grounded celebration of heritage, gastronomy, and the serene beauty of the Portofino countryside.