Milan to Modena: A Journey Through Time & Taste
Italy’s Greatest Chefs & Treasures
Experience the pinnacle of Italy’s millennial history and culture with GR8, as we proudly present the ultimate culinary journey featuring the contemporary icons of Italian cuisine, including the legendary Massimo Bottura and other top chefs from the North of Italy. This exclusive adventure seamlessly blends the culinary arts with Italy’s cultural treasures, showcasing the genius of chefs alongside masterpieces such as those by Leonardo da Vinci and Stradivari.
Embark on this gastronomic odyssey starting in Milan at Mudec where Chefs Bartolini and Guida flawlessly embody Milan’s culinary vision, dive into a private cooking class to discover the secrets of the italian cuisine, continue the journey in Cremona tasting the icon local food such as the famous “Culatello” after visiting Stradivari’s museum where you can admire his masterpieces and attend a private demostration by a local maestro.
Continue your culinary exploration with Massimo Bottura total experience, an odyssey that takes you to the heart of Italian culinary excellence. Discover Casa Maria Luigia, where you’ll not only savor the essence of home but also uncover the secrets and traditions that define Bottura’s culinary mastery by tasting his legendary menu with the “best of” his creations.
The Highlights
- Dine with Italy’s top chefs
- Private Italian cooking class
- Leonardo da Vinci masterpieces
- Stradivari Museum visit
- Culatello tasting in Cremona
- Violin-making demo with maestro
- Casa Maria Luigia experience
- Bottura’s legendary tasting menu
When to go
June 7th–11th, 2026
Booking deadline
February 20th, 2026
Length
5 Days, 4 Nights
Price
Experience expert
Itinerary
Day 1 Genius and Gastronomy – Da Vinci & Bartolini
Genius and Gastronomy – Da Vinci & Bartolini
Guests arrive in Milan and check in at the Mandarin Oriental, a five-star property that captures the city’s contemporary elegance and discreet luxury.
In the afternoon, guests explore the artistic treasures of the Ambrosiana Library with a private, after-hours tour. Led by a dedicated curator, they will discover Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus, the most extensive collection of his drawings and writings, offering an intimate glimpse into the genius of the Renaissance master.
Dinner follows at MUDEC, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant of Chef Enrico Bartolini. Known for his precision and creativity, Bartolini presents a sublime multi-course tasting menu that reinterprets Italian tradition with modern artistry.
A private transfer returns guests to the Mandarin Oriental for the night.
YOUR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Private Leonardo da Vinci Experience at Ambrosiana Library
Step into the historic Ambrosiana Library and explore da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus in an intimate, curator-led tour. This rare opportunity offers a deep dive into the mind of one of history’s greatest geniuses.
Exclusive Culinary Experience
Dinner at Mudec by Chef Enrico Bartolini (3 Michelin Stars)
Experience the culinary excellence of Italy’s most Michelin-starred chef. Savor a multisensory tasting menu that reinterprets traditional Italian flavors with modern techniques.
YOUR UNFORGETTABLE STAY
Mandarin Oriental, Milan (3 nights)
Day 2 Hands-On Mastery & A Michelin-Starred Dinner at Seta
Hands-On Mastery & A Michelin-Starred Dinner at Seta
In the late morning, guests participate in a hands-on cooking class led by Michelin-starred Chef Claudio Sadler. Under his expert guidance, they prepare a complete Italian menu, mastering refined techniques and creative interpretations of classic dishes.
After the class, guests enjoy a convivial lunch featuring the dishes they crafted, paired with specially selected Italian wines.
The evening culminates in a final Milanese highlight: dinner at Seta, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant within the Mandarin Oriental. Chef Antonio Guida’s sophisticated cuisine, paired with rare vintages, offers an extraordinary culinary experience.
Guests return to the Mandarin Oriental for overnight stay.
YOUR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
1 Michelin Star Cooking Class – Milan
Join Michelin-starred Chef Claudio Sadler for an exclusive private cooking class. Learn the techniques and secrets behind his signature dishes, then enjoy your creations over a delightful shared meal.
Exclusive Culinary Experience
Dinner at Seta by Chef Antonio Guida (2 Michelin Stars)
Located inside the Mandarin Oriental, Seta offers a refined blend of Italian and French cuisine. Indulge in an artfully crafted menu, complemented by exquisite wine pairings.
Day 3 From Emilian Traditions to Cremonese Mastery
From Emilian Traditions to Cremonese Mastery
After a relaxed morning, guests check out and transfer privately to Cremona.
Lunch is hosted at Trattoria La Buca, a beloved culinary institution passed down through five generations of women. Located beside the Po River, La Buca offers timeless Emilian dishes like handmade pasta and the famed Culatello di Zibello, served in a charming, rustic setting.
In the afternoon, guests immerse themselves in Cremona’s renowned violin-making tradition with a private visit to the Stradivari Museum. Accompanied by a master luthier, they discover the craftsmanship and legacy of Antonio Stradivari. The visit concludes with a private concert featuring a historic Stradivarius violin.
Late afternoon, guests are transferred to Modena and check in at Casa Maria Luigia, the elegant countryside estate of Chef Massimo Bottura. Nestled in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the villa seamlessly blends contemporary design, curated artwork, and serene surroundings.
YOUR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
Private Stradivari Experience & Concert at the Auditorium
Visit a renowned Cremonese workshop and explore the craftsmanship behind Stradivari’s legendary violins. The experience culminates in a private concert performed on an original Stradivarius—an extraordinary encounter with Cremona’s musical heritage.
Exclusive Culinary Experience
Discover the traditions: Trattoria la Buca
YOUR UNFORGETTABLE STAY
Casa Maria Luigia (1 night)
Experience the exclusive country estate of Chef Massimo Bottura, nestled in the beautiful Emilian countryside. Each suite is individually curated, featuring bespoke Italian design and contemporary art. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this private retreat, with access to gourmet dining, wine tastings, and the chef’s personal art collection.
Day 4 Parmigiano Reggiano & A Taste of Emilia with Massimo Bottura
Parmigiano Reggiano & A Taste of Emilia with Massimo Bottura
In the afternoon, guests enjoy an exclusive encounter with Bottura’s trusted local producers. From aged balsamic vinegar to Parmigiano Reggiano, these behind-the-scenes tastings reveal the foundations of Emilia’s gastronomic excellence.
The evening culminates with a private dinner at Casa Maria Luigia, where guests will savor The Best Of Massimo Bottura, a family-style feast of his most iconic dishes, served in an intimate, refined setting.
Private Visit to Modena’s Local Producers & Immersive Experience
Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access to some of Modena’s finest food artisans. Learn the secrets of traditional balsamic vinegar production, visit a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, and meet local producers of artisanal Italian delicacies.
Exclusive Culinary Experience
Dinner at Casa Maria Luigia – “The Best of” by Chef Massimo Bottura (3 Michelin Stars)
Day 5 Arrivederci – A Graceful Departure
Arrivederci – A Graceful Departure
Following a leisurely breakfast at Casa Maria Luigia, guests check out.
Private airport transfers are arranged according to individual departure schedules. GR8 hosts remain on-site to ensure every farewell is seamless, personal, and perfectly executed.
Make It Uniquely Yours
Book a complimentary 20-minute call with Daniele Castelnuovo, your experience expert.
Whether you’re ready to reserve your spot or simply explore what’s possible, she’ll unveil the hidden side of Milan and its surrounding regions—from secret locations to experiences few ever access—and help craft a luxury journey that’s truly your own.
Your Experience Expert
Daniele Castelnuovo is the mastermind behind GR8’s most iconic Italian experiences. As Director of Italy Experiences at GR8, Daniele combines insider knowledge with an unmatched network of Italy’s top cultural and culinary figures. From Michelin-starred chefs to private museum curators, from historical estates to hidden culinary gems, Daniele opens doors that remain closed to most.
With a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Daniele designs and personally oversees every aspect of the journey, ensuring that each guest not only sees Italy, but feels it. Whether it’s a private dinner curated by Massimo Bottura, an intimate concert with a Stradivarius violin, or a behind-the-scenes visit to a Renaissance archive, Daniele transforms travel into something timeless and unforgettable. This experience, Modena to Milan: A Journey Through Time & Taste, is one of his signature creations, a celebration of Italy’s soul through its greatest heritage.
Concierge Attention, Wherever You Go
Private Chauffeur & Luxury Transfers
Exclusive door-to-door private transportation throughout the experience, ensuring seamless travel in ultimate comfort. Luxury vehicles with professional drivers, available at all times.
On-Site Bilingual GR8 Hosts
Dedicated GR8 hosts available 24/7, ensuring a flawless and personalized experience. Concierge-level service to handle any last-minute requests, reservations, or special arrangements.
Personal Travel Concierge Before You Depart
Discover hidden gems, receive insider recommendations, and tailor your journey with local knowledge you won’t find anywhere else.
Private Chauffeur & Luxury Transfers
Exclusive door-to-door private transportation throughout the experience, ensuring seamless travel in ultimate comfort. Luxury vehicles with professional drivers, available at all times.
On-Site Bilingual GR8 Hosts
Dedicated GR8 hosts available 24/7, ensuring a flawless and personalized experience. Concierge-level service to handle any last-minute requests, reservations, or special arrangements.
Personal Travel Concierge Before You Depart
Discover hidden gems, receive insider recommendations, and tailor your journey with local knowledge you won’t find anywhere else.
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What is included in the experience?
This all-inclusive journey includes luxury accommodations, Michelin-starred dining, exclusive culinary and cultural experiences, guided tours, private cooking classes, and transportation for all scheduled activities, including airport transfers. Entrance fees, daily breakfasts, and all lunches and dinners outlined in the itinerary are included. Wine and beverages are provided with meals, along with 24/7 access to bilingual GR8 hosts.
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Where does this trip start and end?
The journey begins in Modena and concludes in Milan. Guests are responsible for their arrival in Bologna, where a private transfer to Casa Maria Luigia is included. At the conclusion of the trip, return transfers can be arranged to either Milan (either Malpensa Airport – MXP or Linate Airport – LIN) or Bologna Airport (BLQ).
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Full terms and conditions are available upon request.