Italy

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

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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

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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

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VIP Wine Tasting experience

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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

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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

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A timeless train journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer

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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

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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

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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

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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.

The Isle of Capri is the epitome of Mediterranean glamor. With its brilliant blue waters, secret grottoes, sweet lemons, and lush landscapes, Capri has been the world’s muse for centuries. Our recorded fascination with Capri goes all the way back to the Ancient Romans when Emperor Tiberius built his private retreat on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean. By the mid-19th century, Capri was cemented as the go-to destination for artists, dreamers, and A-listers, with everyone from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren gracing these spectacular shores. Capri’s timeless reputation as a place of glitz and glamor remains and it’s still a favorite holiday destination for celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, Beyonce and Jay Z, Lenny Kravitz, Valentino and more.

If you want to vacation like a star, we’ll show you how to spend the perfect day in Capri. Unlock the essence of Capri with exclusive experiences like a private cruise to hidden grottoes and Michelin-starred dining overlooking the Gulf of Naples. From driving the winding roads in an open-top car to tasting lemon Granita and relaxing at beach clubs, here’s how to spend the perfect day in Capri. 

TAKE THE TRIP: Utimate Italy

Arrive in style

Your perfect day in Capri begins with the magnificent entrance. You’ll board a boat and sail across the sparkling turquoise waters, taking in the gorgeous views as you approach the island. As you dock in the harbor, you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and balmy atmosphere of the island. 

After disembarking from the boat, you’ll be escorted to your private open-top taxi for a glamorous experience that’s oh-so-Capri. As you cruise along the winding roads with the warm breeze in your hair (headscarf and sunglasses optional!), you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight out of a vintage film. Onlookers might even speculate about the VIP cruising through the streets!

Your stay – Quisisana Hotel

You’ll arrive at the luxurious Quisisana Hotel, where you’ll stay for two nights. This beautiful hotel overlooks Capri’s central plaza and is perched high above the lush landscapes with views of the brilliant blue ocean. It’s a prime position for a stay in Capri, and the rooms are equally elegant, with the gorgeous Mediterranean design matching the dreamy backdrop. 

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

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Explore Capri

You’ll have a whole day to explore the wonders of Capri. We recommend starting with a private cruise around the spectacular coastline of Capri. This intimate journey reveals hidden coves and glittering grottoes on the cliffside. You’ll also visit the renowned White Grotto, where sparkling stalactites hang over the entrance. They reflect against the turquoise sea creating a dazzling display. 

On your cruise, you’ll likely catch a glimpse of the famous Faraglioni, the towering rock formation rising from the ocean. If you want to get a panoramic view from above, there’s plenty of great spots to explore. Head to the Gardens of Augustus, not only for gorgeous views but ornate gardens and historic sculptures.

From the gardens, you’ll find the start of Via Krupp, a pedestrian-only hairpin walkway leading to the beautiful Marina Piccola beach below. Wander down the walkway and marvel at the rugged cliffs, before arriving at the beach. You can check out the luxury yachts and villas or go for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. Looking for a truly glamorous Capri experience? Rent a sunbed at the glitzy beach clubs, like La Canzone del Mare.

If you feel like getting active, walk along the lush Via Tragara. You’ll find breathtaking views of the coastline, and spot Villa Malaparte, Curzio Malaparte’s red-painted architectural gem. There’s also the Path of the Little Forts in Anacapri, and the path to the Migliera Scenic Overlook, both with beautiful views. You could even take on the challenging 921 Phoenician stone steps that take you from Anacapri to the main port, Marina Grande. 

Dining

After your private cruise, we’ll indulge in a lemon Granita tasting session. Freshly made with sweet Sicilian lemons, this beloved drink is the best way to cool off in the Mediterranean. 

At lunchtime, we’ll combine views with food at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Mammà. Perched over the Gulf of Naples, you’ll savor delicious Mediterranean flavors. The mouthwatering meals are made with local produce by renowned chef Salvatore La Ragione.

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Evening

Once all the day-tripper tourists go home, you’ll have Capri all to yourself with the locals. You might like to head to a viewpoint and watch the enchanting sunset cast a golden glow over the island. Or settle in at a vibrant bar or restaurant for some local wine or Limoncello. You could even retire to your luxurious rooms at the Quisisana Hotel and soak up the view some more.

@quisisanacapri

You’ll enjoy the perfect day in Capri on our Ultimate Italy luxury tour. While the Isle of Capri is certainly the showstopper of this trip, you’ll also visit other iconic destinations including Rome, the Vatican, Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence and Tuscany. From lavish hotels to exclusive dining, discover all the remarkable experiences you’ll have with Luxury Gold in Italy.

Although we’re only six months into 2023, and there’s plenty to be excited for with the summer still ahead of us, but we’ve always got one eye on what’s coming up further down the line. And 2024 is already shaping up to be an exciting year for luxury travel. To whet your appetite for 2024 travel, we’ve selected some of the new openings in the luxury travel sphere that deserve your attention. These offer the perfect reason to treat yourselves to an unforgettable luxury guided vacation to these spectacular destinations.

New luxury trains in Italy – Orient Express ‘Dolce Vita’

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Over 150 years ago, the first ever Orient Express journey launched luxury train travel into another dimension.  And to this day the name Orient Express is still the epitome timeless nostalgia and glamour.

In 2024, this five-star train will launch six new ‘Dolce Vita’ itinerates, the ultimate way to bookend your Italian vacation.

From the snow-capped peaks of the northern Alps through the picturesque hills of Tuscany and the breathtaking beaches of the southern coast, journeys visit iconic cities including Venice, Rome and Matera.

Every aspect of this luxury train pays tribute to “La Dolce Vita.” Choose from 12 Deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and one La Dolce Vita suite. In partnership with esteemed local and international chefs and sommeliers, passengers will savor a 5-star dining experience onboard, showcasing the best of Italy through world-renowned wines and delicious haute cuisine.

Plus new hotels – Orient Express Minerva Hotel, Rome and Orient Express Venice

Furthermore, bringing the Golden Age glamour of the rails to their own hotels, the very first Orient Express Hotels have announced new openings in 2024 in Rome and Venice.

The Orient Express, Minerva in Rome will be sited in the former Palazzo Fonseca and is set to be a high-class romantic landmark for Rome. This exquiste 17th century palace is adorned with Roman columns and sculptures by Rinaldi Rinaldo.

The Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, built in 1400 by architect Filippo Calendario, known for Venice’s famed Doge’s Palace is the home for the Orient Express Hotel, Venice. An ode to the city’s heritage, suites will all overlook the gardens and canals of Venice and select terraces hidden on the hotel’s rooftops will offer the most beautiful views of the wonders of the Serenissima.

Expect all the luxury and nostalgia of the Golden Age of Travel that you get from their trains, wrapped up in a sumptuous hotel, with the finest Italian gastronomy on offer.

Take a timeless Italian journey with: Ultimate Italy

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Egypt – new art hotel

In the bustling capital of Cairo, Egypt is set to get its first luxury ‘art hotel.’ Set to open in early 2024, the Hyatt Centric Cairo West will create an art journey for guests from the moment they arrive.

Reflecting the outstanding historical riches of Cairo and Egypt, the urban hotel will showcase the city through the lens of contemporary artists. At every turn, including in its 283 rooms, nods to Egyptian crafts and pharaonic heritage will blend with a showcase of the country’s pop culture.

Paintings, sculptures and architectural features will be complemented by landscaped gardens, a sumptuous pool and inspiring social spaces. Located in the Pyramid Heights area close to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (set to open this year) the hotel is perfectly located to immerse yourself in the rich history of Egypt.

See the best of Cairo and Egypt with: Elegance of the Nile

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Lisbon – new Melia hotel

Hailed as one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe, Portugal’s capital Lisbon is a highly desirable destination. Blending traditional heritage with striking modernism, all wrapped up in a glorious year-round climate.

To add to the city’s alure, a new ME by Meliá Hotel, an exciting new opening for Lisbon is set for 2024, bringing its unique brand of luxury to the city. Described as a destination in itself, local art will blend with the latest technology to bring an eclectic and luxurious stay.

The fully equipped spa will offer everything you need to disconnect and enjoy a total-relaxation experience, whether in the indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath or massage cabins. And a classy Rooftop Bar will let you sip a cocktail and soak up the ambience in the city, with fantastic panoramic views.

Discover the delights of Lisbon on: Spain & Portugal in Style

London – new museum takes you back in time

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Why not top off a five-star visit to the capital with a step back to a bygone era? From spring 2024, a unique opportunity awaits visitors who wish to journey back in time, and step into the heart of Elizabethan High Society.

The new Shakespeare Museum in London is one of London’s most exciting new openings for 2024. Situated on the grounds of the old playhouse that staged productions like Romeo & Juliet and Henry V, the museum is set to transport visitors to this captivating era.

Guests can anticipate immersive, multisensory encounters, wrapping you in the sights, smells, sounds and ambiance that inspired Shakespeare’s plays. Through cutting-edge AI technology and a projected reconstruction of the playhouse, you’re promised a remarkable resurrection of the past, and can even step onto the stage yourself.

Visit London on: Castles & Kingdoms and British Royale

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