The Northern Italian Lakes

Sep 22, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026

With an extension to Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest
Extension – Sep 30 to Oct 4

Introduction

Northern Italy is a feast for the senses, with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable flavors. Over nine days, you will sip “aperitivo” in glamorous settings, cruise across shimmering lakes, taste the finest bubbles of Franciacorta, and learn the secrets of Valpolicella wine. From elegant villas to historic wineries, every stop uncorks a new flavor of Italy’s north — a journey designed to be savored, one glass and one bite at a time.

Day One

September 22 - Tuesday - Welcome to Italy and Treasures of Milan & Italian "Aperitivo" Drink

Treasures of Milan & Italian "Aperitivo"

Our journey will begin at 3pm, where we will meet in the lobby with our English-speaking guide  and set off on a 3-hour walking tour that brings Milan’s spirit to life. The city, celebrated worldwide as a capital of fashion and design, also holds treasures that embody centuries of history and culture.

The tour begins at Milan’s Cathedral, a breathtaking masterpiece of marble and faith. Inside, light filters through vibrant stained-glass windows, casting colors across priceless works of art. A climb to the rooftop terraces rewards with sweeping views over the city’s skyline, framed by the Cathedral’s intricate spires.

The walk continues to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a dazzling 19th-century arcade crowned by a soaring glass dome. Beneath its mosaics and elegant facades, high-end boutiques and historic cafés create an atmosphere that is both grand and alive with Milanese flair.

The experience culminates at the iconic Camparino in Galleria, birthplace of the Italian aperitivo (Italian “happy hour”). Here, in the heart of Milan, tradition is served in a glass: the Camparino in Galleria it’s a Milanese institution. Opened in 1915 by Davide Campari, son of the founder of the iconic brand, it sits beneath the soaring glass vaults of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Here you can find the legendary Campari Seltz, still prepared with the original soda machine from 1915, or contemporary interpretations that balance innovation with tradition. Alongside the cocktails, small bites and refined pairings showcase the richness of Milanese gastronomy, turning a simple drink into a cultural experience.

Dinner in a local restaurant, overnight in Milan.

Day Two

September 23 - Wednesday - Lunch at Villa D'Este On The Way To Como

Buffet breakfast in hotel and check out.

Late this morning, meet in the hotel lobby and board a motorcoach bound for Lake Como.

En route, we’ll have a lovely lunch at the legendary Villa d’Este. Overlooking the shimmering waters of the lake, this historic villa pairs timeless elegance with refined cuisine — dishes rooted in Lombard tradition, reimagined with contemporary flair, and perfectly matched with local wines.

After lunch, rejoin your driver and continue on to your 4* accommodation on Lake Como

Afternoon at leisure in Como

Afternoon at leisure to start exploring Como on own.

Enclosed within imposing medieval walls – of which Porta Torre, overlooking Piazza Vittoria, is one of the most scenic gates – the center of Como is home to fascinating squares, each with its own personality.

The main square is Piazza Duomo, which houses the imposing Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como): an eclectic building, combining Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.

Just a 3-minute walk from Piazza Duomo is Piazza San Fedele. This square, originally a grain market, is home to a beautiful Romanesque Church dating back to 1120: the Basilica of San Fedele.

Piazza Volta and Piazza Mazzini are the center of Como’s nightlife. In fact, among elegant Art Nouveau buildings and stores selling typical products, there are numerous restaurants, wine bars and pubs to satisfy all tastes.

Dinner at the hotel restaurant, overnight in Como.

Day Three

September 24 - Thursday - Lake Como Magic by Private Boat

Lake Como Magic by Private Boat

Buffet breakfast in hotel.

This morning we’ll meet  in the hotel lobby, and enjoy a 6-hours excursion on Como Lake by private boats!

The sense of beauty has its origins in the splendor of the noble mansions and villas on the lake, in the elegance of its boutiques, in the slower pace of life of its inhabitants: here mountains and water meet in a breath-taking scape!

Enjoy the beautiful sensations and atmospheres that Como Lake can offer you, admiring from the water the beautiful villages that makes this part of Italy a charming corner!

Return to the hotel to freshen up before heading out again for dinner in a local restaurant. .

Day Four

September 25 - Friday - Lugano Charm & Countryside Delights

Lugano Charm & Countryside Delights

Buffet breakfast in Hotel.

This morning, meet your driver and cross the border into Switzerland for a full-day excursion to Lugano, a charming city on the shores of Lake Lugano in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino.

You will have free time to explore Lugano on your own. The city blends a Mediterranean atmosphere with North Italian–inspired architecture. In the old town, discover elegant palaces with frescoed facades, centuries-old churches, luxurious boutiques, and a graceful lakeside promenade that invites a leisurely stroll.

At midday, continue into the hills above the lake for a lunch at Vicania Restaurant. Set within a former stone farmhouse and surrounded by the pastures of Alpe Vicania, the restaurant is an oasis of tranquility. Here you will savor creative cuisine rooted in local tradition. Dishes are crafted with genuine ingredients sourced from trusted local producers — many directly from the estate itself — offering an authentic taste of Ticino’s terroir.

After lunch, return to your hotel.

Dinner in a local restaurant

Day Five

September 26 - Saturday - Bergamo's Stracciatella & Franciacorta Wine Region

Bergamo’s Stracciatella & Franciacorta Wine Region

Buffet breakfast in hotel and check out.

This morning, meet in the hotel lobby and depart by deluxe motorcoach toward Lake Garda.

Your first stop will be Bergamo, a true hidden gem of Lombardy, for a quick yet delicious break at the historic “gelateria” La Marianna. It was here in 1961 that Enrico Panattoni’s stroke of genius created the iconic Stracciatella gelato — a smooth, velvety cream enriched with crisp shards of fine dark chocolate.

Continue the journey to the Franciacorta wine region, where gently rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and a centuries-old winemaking tradition create one of Italy’s most celebrated sparkling wines. Visit a prestigious local winery and enjoy a tasting of Franciacorta DOCG in a charming natural setting.

Following the tasting, sit down for a light lunch in a local restaurant in the heart of Franciacorta, where regional dishes are paired with the area’s finest wines — a perfect expression of Lombardy’s culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, rejoin your driver and continue on to your hotel on Lake Garda, arriving in time to relax and settle into the lakeside atmosphere.

Check in at our 4* hotel for the next two evenings.

Dinner at the cheerfully informal Ristorante Cordevigo of Hotel Villa Cordevigo.

Day Six

September 27 - Sunday - Lake Garda Wonders

Lake Garda Wonders

Buffet breakfast in Hotel.

Today meet in the lobby for transfer to the meeting point of your boat tour.

Upon arrival meet with your private skipper, your private English-speaking guides and jump aboard your private boats for 4 hours!

Admire Salò & Isola del Garda from the water: Salò is one of the pearls of the Brescian shore of Lake Garda, is an elegant location full of stately residences and palaces of great historical and artistic value. Isola del Garda is a place of incomparable beauty, rich in history and landscapes, rendered unforgettable by the crystal clear waters of the lake that surrounds it.

Return to the pier at the end of the boat tour, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant in Sirmione.

The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy a stroll on own in Sirmione: Perched on the tip of a long, narrow peninsula, Sirmione is a medieval town surrounded by gardens, thermal spas, beaches, and the aquamarine water of Lake Garda. Explore an ancient castle, wander the narrow city streets!

Finally return to your hotel to freshen up, before your dinner in a local restaurant in the area.

Day Seven

September 28 - Monday - Cooking Class with Lunch at Allegrini Winery

Cooking Class with Lunch at Allegrini Winery

This morning, we will depart by motorcoach toward your accommodation in Verona.

En route, enjoy a special excursion through the Valpolicella wine region, a land of rolling vineyards, centuries-old traditions, and world-renowned red wines.

Your destination is the prestigious Allegrini Winery, a true symbol of Valpolicella. The Allegrini family has been at the heart of winemaking in Fumane and the Valpolicella Classica since the 16th century, passing down a deep-rooted culture of the vine and the art of wine from generation to generation.

The food culture in Italy is not just the act of dining but to the ritual of conviviality, the need to take a break from work to talk, exchange ideas, renew the bonds of love that have long been at the heart of our domestic culture. Inspired by this concept, the cooking school is open to food in the broadest, most all-encompassing sense of the term: not just a source of pleasure and sustenance, but a repository of knowledge, ideas and emotions!

Here, you’ll dive into the authentic flavors of Italy with a hands-on cooking class, followed by lunch paired with the estate’s celebrated wines!

After lunch, finally transfer to your hotel in Verona.

Dinner in a local restaurant and overnight in Verona.

Check in at 4* Hotel, Verona

2 nights stay, daily buffet breakfast included.

Day Eight

September 29 - Tuesday - Romantic Verona & Farewell Gala Dinner

Romantic Verona

Buffet breakfast in hotel.

This morning, we will set off on a walking tour of Verona, discovering the city’s timeless charm. Highlights include an exterior visit of Romeo and Juliet’s House, the enchanting Piazza delle Erbe, and the winding streets of the historic center.

Verona is more than the legendary city of Romeo and Juliet — it is also known as the “Gateway to Italy”, offering visitors from the north a first glimpse of the country’s artistic and cultural richness. Its atmosphere is steeped in history, blending priceless beauty with a sense of romance that lingers in every square and street.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, Verona is celebrated for its unique urban structure and architecture, where Roman monuments harmoniously meet Renaissance artistry.

The tour also includes a visit to the Arena of Verona, one of the best-preserved ancient amphitheaters in the world, a place where the grandeur of the Roman Empire still resonates today.

The afternoon is free to relax, explore the city at your own pace, or simply unwind before gathering again in the evening for a memorable Farewell Dinner.

Farewell Gala Dinner

This evening marks the grand finale of your Northern Italy journey at the magnificent Palazzo Verità-Poeta.  As the palace doors open, you’ll step into a world of timeless refinement. The evening unfolds with a Farewell Gala Dinner, where exquisite dishes and fine wines from Northern Italy are presented as the ultimate celebration of your Italian adventure.

After the perfect finale to your journey through Northern Italy, the private drivers will return you to your hotel: hearts full, smiles wide, and maybe humming an aria or two on the way back.

Last overnight in Verona.

Days Nine thru Thirteen

September 30 – October 4, 2026 – Optional Extension to Munich, Germany

Arrivederci!….Unless you are journeying on to our Optional Extension!

Extend your travels with an unforgettable four-day Culinary Learning Journey celebrating the flavors, traditions, and festive spirit of Bavaria. Your adventure begins with a scenic First Class train ride from Verona to Munich, arriving in the early afternoon on September 30th—just in time to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most iconic cultural events.

Over four delicious days, you’ll explore Munich through its food, heritage, and world-famous hospitality. Enjoy VIP access to the lively atmosphere of Oktoberfest, where classic Bavarian dishes, local beer, and joyous music set the tone for an extraordinary experience.

Dive deeper into the region’s culinary traditions with a hands-on pretzel-making workshop, a guided tasting through the legendary Viktualienmarkt, and curated samplings of regional cheeses, sausages, and artisan specialties. A guided city center walking tour reveals Munich’s rich history and charming architecture, while an excursion to Garmisch showcases Alpine beauty and Bavarian culture beyond the city.

You’ll also enjoy an authentic brewery experience, along with additional curated surprises that highlight the best of the region’s food, traditions, and craftsmanship.

This journey includes all meals, beverages, accommodations, and transportation, ensuring a seamless, enriching, and flavorful extension to your European travels.

Join us for a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and celebration—an experience that captures the heart of Bavaria at the most festive time of year.

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Itinerary: Day by Day

The below Culinary Learning Journey itinerary is arranged exclusively for GROW Catering Foundation.
September/October is a comfortable time to travel in Northern Italy, with an average temperature of 50-70ºF.

Itinerary: Day by Day

The below Culinary Learning Journey itinerary is arranged exclusively for GROW Catering Foundation.
September/October is a comfortable time to travel in Northern Italy, with an average temperature of 50-70ºF.

1 Step 1
RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW
The Northern Italian Lakes Sep 22, 2026-Sep 30, 2026

Optional Extension: Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest & Exploration - Sep 30 to Oct 4, 2026
Are you a caterer?
Are you a CLJ Alumni?

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**NOTE: You may register a maximum of two (2) rooms or four (4) attendees total.

$7,195 USD per person - based on double occupancy for the full Culinary Learning Journey - including 8 nights in hotels, meals and experiences outlined in the Program Guide. (one lunch and international airfare are not included in the price) 

Indicate bed preference
Single Supplement

--------------------------------

Optional Munich Extension:
  PRICE $2,895 USD per person

based on double occupancy for the full Munich Extension - including 4 nights in hotels, meals and experiences outlined in the Program Guide

Optional Munich Extension
Indicate bed preference
Single Supplement
50% due NOW
to reserve your space (non-r
efundable)

balance is due by Wednesday, June 24, 2026

--------------------------------

You will have the option to pay via check
or by credit card (fees apply).

For more information, please contact Corinne Dudine at czd@growcatering.org • Phone (Arizona) 480.513.0756

<-- PLEASE INITIAL HERE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND AGREE TO THE CANCELLATION POLICY BELOW:

All cancellations must be submitted in writing.

  • The reservation fee is nonrefundable after 6 days from receipt and will be applied to the cost of the trip
  • Cancellations received on or before Wednesday, March 25, 2026 will get a refund of 50% of investment paid (less the $1000 per person reservation fee and credit card fees);

  • Cancellations received on or before Thursday, July 23, 2026 will receive a refund of 25% of the deposits paid (less the $1000 per person reservation fee and credit card fees).

  • No cancellation refunds after Friday, July 24, 2026, unless there is a waiting list for this Journey and your place can be re-sold. Substitutions will be accepted at no additional charge minus any non-recoupable expenses (ie internal airfare).


  • Flights: International AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED IN FEES.

    Please arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).  Our journey starts at 3pm with a walking tour.   If you are not signing up for the optional extension, fly out of Verona’s Valerio Catullo Airport (VRN) airport on 9.30.26.  If you are signing up for the optional extension, fly out of Munich International Airport (MUC) on 10.4.26.  Transportation to the extension trip is included if you sign up for the trip


    • By attending this journey, I understand photos will be taken on-site and that my photo may or may not be used for GROW marketing purposes and posting on social media. 

    • At least one traveler in your room will be required to download WhatsApp (a free app that allows for free messaging anywhere in the world) to keep our CLJ travelers informed of any updates to the daily itinerary.

    Itinerary is accurate at the time of this printing, but the producer reserves the right to make any changes they feel will enhance the trip or make it more enjoyable for all involved.

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CLJ Code of Conduct - Behavior Guidelines and Policies

The behavior and conduct of our CLJ travelers affects GROW's overall image and success of the Culinary Learning Journeys. To ensure that all CLJ travelers have the “best experience ever” on a learning journey, please be aware and abide by the following code of conduct.

All travelers shall:

Be mindful of local laws and respect the customs and culture of the trip location

Be aware that illegal activities will not be tolerated. The laws abroad may be different from the laws in the US and must be followed. You will be subject to any legal consequences and immediate dismissal from the tour. No refunds will be applicable.

Not consume excessive alcohol resulting in public intoxication or lewd behavior.

Respect your fellow travelers by behaving responsibly. Do not exhibit disruptive or offensive behaviors including: abusive or degrading language, physically threatening actions, hurtful criticism, inappropriate touching or using sexually explicit language.

X marks the spot. Be where you need to be when you need to be there. Scheduled activities are not mandatory but if you deviate from the planned program, you are responsible for any additional costs. No refunds from any scheduled programing will be given.

• Be mindful of your safety and belongings at all times, so that you can avoid any mishaps while traveling.

Foreign Travel and Local Laws

Participants agree to abide by all local laws while on tour and abroad, including those concerning drugs, alcohol and tobacco. If participants abuse or disobey local law they may be sent home at their own expense and waive the right to a refund for any of their tour fee. Participants should also be advised that if local authorities become involved, they would be subject to the laws and consequences of the country in which they are traveling.

In addition to the points above, you will find your trip more enjoyable if you spend some pre-travel time to educate yourself about the culture you’re visiting. Before you jet off across the world, do a little research. How do they dress? What do they eat? How do they say “hello” and “please & thank you”? This will help you adjust to the new environment and keep you from looking like a tourist. 

Additional Info:

The producer has the right to limit additional services or requests by the attendee of the CLJ guide that may interfere with the group's overall experience. Any additional needs will incur extra charges and must be pre-approved by the producer. Attendees are responsible for their personal well-being and should not expect undue attention or resources to be used to accommodate these needs. This includes but is not limited to medical needs, night outings, outside scheduled experiences, and sights, returns to the hotel at unscheduled times, unapproved shopping, specialty beverage procurement, luggage handling and services, souvenir procurement, etc.

Billing may take place at the time of approval as well as post-journey upon returning home.

I agree to the above stated Rules and CLJ Code of Conduct:

___________________________________________________

RELEASE OF LIABILITY
- READ CAREFULLY –
THIS AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS

In exchange for participation in the activities of a CULINARY LEARNING JOURNEY (CLJ) organized by the GROW FOUNDATION (GROW) and use of the property, facilities and services of GROW, I

agree for myself and (if applicable) for members of my family and/or traveling party, to the following:

1. AGREEMENT TO FOLLOW DIRECTION. I agree to observe and obey all posted rules and warnings, and further agree to follow any oral instructions or directions given by GROW, or the employees, representatives, or agents of the GROW.

2. ASSUMPTION OF THE RISKS AND RELEASE. I recognize that there are certain risks associated with travel and I assume the full responsibility for personal injury to myself and (if applicable) to my family members and further release and discharge the GROW for injury, loss or damage arising out of my or my family’s use of or presence upon the facilities, owned, leased or rented, of GROW, whether caused by the fault of myself, my family, GROW or other third parties. The GROW Foundation strongly recommends that each individual traveling purchase their own travel insurance policy.

3. INDEMNIFICATION. I agree to indemnify and defend GROW against all claims, causes of action, damages, judgement, costs or expenses, including attorney fees and other litigations costs, which may in any way arise from my or my family’s use of or presence upon the facilities or agent facilities of GROW.

4. APPLICABLE LAW. Any legal or equitable claim that may arise from participation in a CLJ shall be resolved under Colorado law.

5. NO DURESS. I agree and acknowledge that I am under no pressure or duress to sign this agreement and that I have been given a reasonable opportunity to review it before signing. I further agree and acknowledge that I am free to have my own legal counsel review this Agreement if I so desire. I further agree and acknowledge that GROW has offered to refund any fees I have paid, if I choose to not sign this Agreement.

6. ARM’S LENGTH AGREEMENT. This Agreement and each of its terms are the product of an arm’s length negotiation between the Parties. In the event any ambiguity is found to exist in the interpretation of this Agreement or an of its provisions, the Parties and each of them, explicitly reject the application of any legal or equitable rule of interpretation which would lead to a construction either “for” or “against” a particular party based upon their status as the drafter of a specific term, language or provision giving rise to such ambiguity.

7. ENFORCEABILITY. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement, whether standing alone or as applied to a particular occurrence or circumstance, shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement or of any other application of such provision, as the case may be, and such invalid or unenforceable provisions shall be deemed not to be a part of this Agreement.

8. EMERGENCY CONTACT. In case of emergency, please call:

I HAVE READ THIS DOCUMENT AND UNDERSTAND IT.  I FURTHER UNDERTAND THAT BY SIGNING THIS RELEASE, I VOLUNTARILY SURRENDER CERTAIN LEGAL RIGHTS.

Once you hit the submit button, please pay on the following screen.

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