For those who have traveled with Luxury Gold, you’ll appreciate the amount of personal care, attention to detail and professionalism that goes into delivering that dream vacation. One past guest who can personally testify to the exceptional quality of a Luxury Gold journey is Sandy, who has traveled with us twice, with a third journey coming up.

She kindly agreed to talk to us about her experience of a Luxury Gold vacation, including her favorite destination to visit, and why she and her husband plan on taking more vacations with us in the future.

Hi Sandy. How did you first hear about Luxury Gold?

“We first heard about Luxury Gold via some friends we made on a river cruise. They sang the praises of Luxury Gold’s five-star hotels, Michelin-rated restaurants, expert guides, and brilliant Travel Concierges and drivers. The one thing they kept reiterating was the small number of people on each tour. It sounded like a dream vacation.”

Which journey did you end up booking?

“Right after Covid, we took our first Luxury Gold holiday: Spain and Portugal in Style. There were 17 of us. We had the most glorious time together, visiting Valencia and the orange blossom coast, the Alhambra Palace, Andalucia, Barcelona, Madrid and Lisbon.

“Our tour director and driver were fantastically knowledgeable, and fluent Spanish speakers. Our tour director made lots of beautiful dinner reservations for us and booked various events along the way. She led us to pasteis de nata in Lisbon, found us Flamenco lessons in Seville and organized a horse and carriage ride, too. I fondly remember a Michelin star restaurant in Lisbon overlooking the city, and a fabulous former Portuguese convent with a winery. It was truly a dream vacation, and we were hooked.”

Did you follow Spain & Portugal with Italy with another journey?

“Yes. Our next trip was the Ultimate Italy journey. I loved Rome so much, and the Grand Hotel Quisisana in Capri was incredibly special – a real jewel. We took a cooking class in the hunting lodge of the Medici family in Tuscany and an art historian introduced us to Renaissance Florence. We saw the grottos and coves of the Capri coastline on a private cruise. Over the course of the journey, we traveled by water taxi, gondola, funicular, train and ferry. It felt like such an adventure.”

Two guests recline on Luxury Gold’s private boat tour of Capri

What is it about a Luxury Gold journey that keeps you coming back?

“We love that the opulence begins the moment you leave your house, and lasts until you get home. There’s so much one-on-one care, and everything is tailored to your needs – meals, events, concerts, tours, transport. You feel special, looked after, relaxed, which is the most important thing. In between the big moments, your tour guide will regale you with treats and stories from the region as you travel on your comfortable bus. You really get to sit back and relish it all.”

And do you have anything else booked?

“Our next tour will be Ultimate Southern France, ending in Paris. We look forward to it. It’s our dose of elegance. I feel like royalty when I travel with Luxury Gold.”

Want to experience the glamor of a Luxury Gold vacation for yourself? Explore our full catalogue of journeys here, or browse our luxury holidays in Spain.

There are almost as many ways to eat in Italy as there are to be a person. The twenty regions each foster their own unique flavours and techniques, and within those there are untold variations. Michelin star restaurants can be wildly creative, or classic, old-school affairs. Here’s our guide to the gamut of Italian fine dining, featuring some of the most famous restaurants in Italy, and some of the lesser known ones, too. 

Lido 84, Lake Garda

The lakeside dinner of your dreams is in lush little Gardone Riviera, among the cypress trees, oleanders and bougainvillea. This is a joyous, relaxed place to soak in the lake’s majesty, with chefs regularly bustling in and out of the jewel-like turquoise dining room to present dishes made using local sardines, raw mountain milk, olive oil, lemons and Wisteria flowers. 

 

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Accursio, Modica

Modica is one of three Baroque towns in southern Sicily – it’s dazzling and monumental, and somewhat mind-blowingly nestled in a valley 25 minutes from the sea. Accursio’s tasting menu is a vivid introduction to the wildly varied cuisine of Sicilia, taking you from the coast to the mainland, the east to the west. 

Piazza Duomo, Alba

In Piedmont, unassuming Alba lures foodies in their droves with its Barolo wine, gianduja chocolates and highly prized white truffles. And for a seat in meticulous creative genius Enrico Crippa’s rosato pink dining room. This is one of the most awarded Michelin star restaurants in Italy – it’s had three for 13 years. Crippa’s 51-ingredient salad will change the way you think about foliage forever. 

 

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Osteria Francescana, Modena

One of the most famous restaurants in Italy and indeed the world, Massimo Bottura’s colossus is quite used to being called ‘the best’. Bottura’s singular work must be eaten to be believed; his menus are influenced by art and the cultural traditions of his Emilia-Romagna homeland. This is Italian fine dining as exuberant theater. 

Read more about Michelin star chefs around the world. 

Joia, Milan 

Pietro Leemann was one of the first chefs to take Italian fine dining to the green side, and in 1996 his trailblazing Joia became Europe’s first entirely vegetarian venue with a Michelin star. Leemann’s dishes are indulgent, complex and brimming with surprises, and the dining room has all the cool, chic minimalism you’d expect from Milano. 

 

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Glass Hostaria, Rome

Cristina Bowerman draws on American and Asian influences, never forgetting that Glass is a Roman restaurant, located right in the middle of Trastevere, a cobbled neighborhood across the Tiber. In a super-modern space, in which glass wine cases are embedded in floors, Bowerman reimagines Roman classics – her Amatriciana-stuffed ravioli are yolky, silky, rich magnificence. 

Le Monzu, Capri

Picture a romantic table for two in Capri: white tablecloth, plate of exquisite cuttlefish, next to the window where the sun is setting over the sea and some dramatic rock formations. You are picturing Le Monzu, one of the Michelin star resaurants on our Ultimate Italy journey, and the only restaurant with a Michelin star in Capri (its tagline is “Where an extra star shines over the Med”) . It sparkles. 

What to expect when dining at a Michelin star restaurant. 

 

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La Caravella dal 1959, Amalfi

As much a part of Amalfi as the lemons, La Caravella received its first star in 1969 at the helm of Antonio Dipino’s parents. It was later lost, but Chef Antonio won it back in the nineties with his imaginative reinterpretations of local dishes. Beneath spectacular frescoed ceilings, enjoy a Very Amalfi degustazione, ending with “the sun in a dish” – a legendary lemon souffle.

Casa Mazzucchelli, Sasso Marconi

A new star for 2024, Casa Mazzucchelli is just south of abundant Bologna, the city known for its ragus and brodos rather than its Italian fine dining. Brother Massimo takes the warm oak and bronze dining room and sister Aurora leads the kitchen, which is deeply devoted to bread. Look for Aurora’s leavening prowess in sourdough ravioli stuffed with chickpeas, lard and black cabbage, or in braised eel with corn focaccia.

 

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Duomo, Ragusa

Michelin awards two stars to Chef Ciccio Sultano for what they describe as “an intimate portrait of Sicily”. Enjoy a five- or eight-course showcase of the island’s finest almonds, sea urchins, lasagna and cassata in an old apartment, opposite the dramatic Duomo di San Giorgio, which sits with its neoclassical dome and Corinthian columns, like a giant honey-coloured wedding cake. 

Enoteca Pinchiorri, Florence

In a former Renaissance palazzo, with a soundtrack of live piano, this is opulent, dreamy Florence in a nutshell, with three Michelin stars. It’s the sort of restaurant in which the sommelier will find you a glass of wine that pairs with your very soul, and the service is so immaculate the staff seem to float around you. The menu is a catalogue of wonders. 

 

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Enrico Bartolini al Mudec, Milan

Chef Enrico Bartolini has been awarded more Michelin stars for restaurants in Italy than anyone else, and this one is his flagship. Find the exquisite dining room (all soft leather, taupe and gentle lines), on the third floor of Milan’s Museo delle Culture (Mudec). The ‘contemporary classic’ menu is rooted in Milan, but with influences and ingredients from all over Italy. 

Oasis – Sapori Antichi

 

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In the Fischetti family, the women have run the kitchen for 35 years now and the ricotta ravioli with walnut and seared garlic has been there throughout. Today, it’s Michelina and her granddaughter Serena collaborating on dishes that are open to the world, but faithful to local tradition. The restaurant also has a Michelin green star for its connection to the region – the Fischettis use mostly small-scale producers and make olive oil on their own organic farm.

Zia, Rome

Michelin describes Antonio Ziantoni as “a young chef of undoubted talent”. He has a lot of interesting things to say, and he does so through red shrimp with rhubarb and basil, and through tortelli stuffed with pork, plums, Parmesan and bitters, and through rice pudding with coffee and black cardamom. If you want to surprise and delight your taste buds, book a table at Zia. 

How many Michelin star restaurants are there in Italy?

In 2024, there were 395 Michelin star restaurants in Italy. 

Which city in Italy has the most Michelin stars?

In 2024, Rome and Milan topped the leaderboard, with 21 stars apiece. 

Read more: The essential guide to Italy for foodies. 

Fulfilling the innate human desire for exploration and indulgence, there are some luxury travel experiences will never go out of style.

From exclusive encounters with people and wildlife, to spellbinding train journeys. A step into the wild or a step into history. Each leaves a lasting impression that enriches one’s perspective.

Our passport moments are the golden threads that make up our journeys. We invite you to take a look at some of our most timeless travel experiences.

A private stately castle visit

@castle_howard

Stepping into Castle Howard is like entering a time capsule, offering a glimpse into centuries of aristocratic life and a remarkable era in English history.

A magnificent stately home built in the 18th century, the stately home is renowned for its Baroque architecture, extensive gardens and impressive interior. This cultural treasure has been featured in films and TV shows – you’ll feel like a film star in a period drama as you step inside.

Travel with Luxury Gold and this grand estate is yours after-hours. Enjoy a traditional English high tea and a private tour of the house. Take a walk in the gardens designed by renowned landscaper Capability Brown. Ornate statues, fountains and a tranquil walled garden, make them a true horticultural delight.

Explore this treasure on: British Royale

You might also be interested in: A day in the life of a Travelling Concierge

A private concert from a renowned singer

The power of music and song to create a deep connection to your destination is unmatched. A private concert offers even more, a truly intimate connection between the artist and the audience. Allowing for a more personal experience and a deeper appreciation of the music it creates an unforgettable memory, cherished for years to come.

In Hue, Vietnam guests of Luxury Gold are invited for a private dinner and concert at the home of celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. Share in a memorable meal and traditional song. Stroll around the traditional home she shares with her husband and hear about their fascinating lives, and the dream that brought them home.

Get inspired by: Sensational Vietnam & Laos, Vietnam Luxury Travel

You may also enjoy: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

VIP Wine Tasting experience

@chateaudescharmes

Always a decadent experience, wine tasting offers an explosion of diverse flavors, aromas, and textures, tantalizing the senses with each sip. The opportunity to share in the art of wine production and appreciation is one of those unique travel experiences that ignites a passion for the finest things in life.

Nestled in the scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake region of Canada, Château des Charmes is a renowned winery producing some sublime vintages. On your VIP visit with Luxury Gold, you’re welcomed with a limited production rosé sparkling wine, followed by a tour and tasting of wines from St. David’s Bench Vineyard. Admire the charming French-inspired architecture and pair your sips with hand-made local ice cream, cheeses and chocolates.

Savor the vintages on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

You may also like: A look inside South Africa’s most beautiful – and exclusive – wineries

Sailing on a Felucca on the Nile

Exploring a destination from the water is a timeless travel experience. Embrace the beauty and tranquility of the open waters, escape from the bustling world and ignite a sense of freedom and adventure.

To see Egypt in style, we invite you to board a traditional wooden Felucca to explore parts of the sacred river Nile. Sustaining life and symbolizing the cradle of ancient civilizations, the Nile has served as a lifeline for its communities throughout the ages.

Ease around the botanical vistas of Kitchener’s Island and admire the greenery of the Island of Plants. Drift through the afternoon and relax with the soothing rhythm of the waves and the gentle breeze.

Sail the waters on: Elegance of the Nile

You may also enjoy reading: Riches of the Nile: Why Egypt’s icon is the grandest river in the world

A timeless train journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer

@rockymountaineer

Evoking a sense of nostalgia and adventure, train travel embodies the romanticism of a bygone era, offering an unhurried and scenic journey through diverse landscapes. Combining elegance, comfort, and natural wonders, a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Service is one of the truly exceptional timeless travel experiences.

Opulent train cars provide unobstructed views of stunning landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to lush valleys. Immersive storytelling enriches the voyage with captivating tales of the region’s history and culture. Combined with exceptional onboard service and gourmet dining, this is a luxurious train ride you will never forget.

Admire the vistas on: Majesty of the Rockies

You may also enjoy: Get to the Heart of Your Destination With These Boutique Train Journeys

A luxury safari

From the vast African savannahs to the national parks of India, a luxury safari offers a profound connection with the natural world. The sense of adventure and witnessing majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Combined with exclusive lodges, gourmet dining and personal guides, this is a luxurious journey into the untouched world of the past.

Join us for the safari of a lifetime in South Africa. Covering nearly two million hectares, Kruger National Park is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with iconic wildlife, including the Big Five. Join expert rangers for thrilling game drives and stay in exquisite accommodations, blending luxury with nature. Dine as the sunsets over the African plains, while the distant roar of lions echoes through the night.

Seek the Big 5 on: Spectacular South Africa

Exquisite Michelin-starred dining with spectacular views

@mammarestaurant

Michelin-starred dining on a stunning Italian island is one of the timeless travel experiences you must experience. Nestled in the Gulf of Naples, the Isle of Capri exudes glamour, elegance and Mediterranean charm. And its restaurants are exceptional.

On our Ultimate Italy tour, enjoy lunch at the Michelin-starred Mamma restaurant. Savor a delectable meal of Mediterranean flavors in perfect Caprese style, created with passion from fresh, local produce by chef Salvatore La Ragione. From its perch, you’ll enjoy mesmerizing views over the Gulf of Naples. A truly timeless way to dine.

Dine here on: Ultimate Italy

You may also like: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

Timeless luxury travel experiences are at the heart of each of our small group journeys. Take a look at our worldwide collection of limited-edition tours.