ITALY
Join Darden School of Business Professor of Business Administration and former Associate Dean for the Global MBA for Executives Program George (Yiorgos) Allayannis in Beautiful Italy.
Embark on a meticulously planned journey through Italy's captivating cities, enchanting countryside, small towns and Lake Como for a scenic cruise. Experience the richness of art, history, culture, and cuisine on this enchanting small-group expedition. Begin in Milan with a leisurely evening and a welcome dinner. Explore Milan's iconic landmarks and art treasures. Discover the charm of Verona,the “little Rome;” before indulging in Modena's culinary delights en route to charming Bologna. Dive into Bologna's vibrant streets and savor a private cooking class. Continue to Florence for art immersion and artisanal experiences before concluding your adventure in the eternal city of Rome with a farewell dinner. Each day offers a perfect mix of guided tours and free exploration, promising an unforgettable Italian odyssey. Magnifico!
Physical Activity Level: 3 - Moderate: Consistent amount of walking most days, about 2-4 miles per day. These trips feature long touring days and may include travel via various modes of transportation. Travelers are expected to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain including cobblestones for extended periods of time. Some tours may include activities and travel at higher altitudes. Elevators are not always available at sights or all hotels.
George (Yiorgos) Allayannis is the Robert F. Bruner Distinguished Professor of Business Administration at the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia and a former Associate Dean for the Global MBA for Executives Program. His research focuses on corporate risk management, international finance and corporate financial policies and has appeared in leading journals, such as the Journal of Finance, the Journal of Financial Economics, and the Review of Financial Studies. At Darden, he has taught the core first year Corporate Finance course and electives in Portfolio, Valuation, Financial Institutions and Markets and Global Capital Markets. His case writing has focused on Financial Institutions, Fintech, Cryptocurrencies, and Global Markets. He has taught executives at Darden’s Executive Education, the CFA Institute, and the World Bank. He has received the Outstanding Faculty Award at Darden six times, was selected by the graduating MBA classes as Faculty Marshal six times and was the recipient of the University of Virginia Alumni Association Distinguished Professor Award in 2011. Between 2005 and 2007, he was a Director at Citigroup’s Global Financial Strategies Group in New York and worked extensively with clients in the financial institutions and industrials sectors. He holds an MBA from the University of Massachusetts and a PhD in finance from the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University.
DAY 2 – Friday, September 26, 2025
Milan
We arrive in Milan and transfer to our hotel. As guests’ arrival times vary, we have no group activities planned during the day. This evening, we meet our Tour Director and fellow travelers for a briefing about the journey ahead, followed by a welcome dinner at our hotel.
NH Collection Milano Touring
Dinner (D)
DAY 3 – Saturday, September 27, 2025
Milan
We discover this world capital of design and fashion, and Italy’s center of commerce and finance, on today’s tour that features the multi-spired Milan Cathedral (Duomo), the world’s third largest; the historic La Scala opera house; and the landmark Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the city’s grand arcaded shopping mall. After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit the Brera Picture gallery, housing works by Caravaggio, Tiepolo, Tintoretto, and other great masters.
NH Collection Milano Touring
Breakfast, Lunch (B,L)
DAY 4 – Sunday, September 28, 2025
Lake Como
A tour highlight today as we travel to Italy’s celebrated Lake District, where we enjoy a cruise on stunning Lake Como in the foothills of the Alps. Flanked by grand villas, palm trees, and wooded mountainsides, the lake and its surroundings have drawn visitors since Roman times. Following our cruise, we have free time for lunch and to explore on our own in this beautiful setting.
NH Collection Milano Touring
(B)
DAY 5 – Monday, September 29, 2025
Bergamo/Verona
En route to Verona today, we stop in historic, and beloved, Bergamo. Here we ride a funicular to the Città Alta (Upper Town), with its fortified city walls, cobble¬stone alleys, Renaissance architecture, and dramatic views that stretch to the Alps. After lunch together, we continue to Verona, arriving late afternoon.
Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel Des Arts
Breakfast, Lunch (B,L)
DAY 6 – Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Verona
Rich in history, art, and culture – and of course, Shakespearean connections – Verona retains monuments from its 1st-century CE Roman era, as well as from its thriving medieval period. Highlights of our morning tour here include the austere Castelvecchio, the ancient Roman gate of Porta Borsari, Piazza delle Erbe, the 14th-century Scaliger Tombs, and Verona Arena, built in 30 ce and still used today. We also see Juliet’s balcony on the 13th-century home of the Del Capello family said to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Late this afternoon we take a guided tour of the Teatro Filarmonico, among Europe’s leading opera houses, then dine together at a local restaurant.
Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel Des Arts
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 7 – Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Verona
A free morning for independent exploration. Later today, we embark on an immersive wine experience at the historic estate of the Gaetano Bertani family, pioneers of Verona winemaking. We tour the frescoed rooms and romantic gardens of the neo-classical manor house and walk through the vineyards lush with ancient grape varieties for Amarone and Valpolicella Classico. Our tour concludes with a tasting that showcases the region’s unique terroir.
Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel Des Arts
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 8 – Thursday, October 2, 2025
Modena/Bologna
We leave Italy’s Veneto region today for Emilia-Romagna, stopping first in Modena, known especially for its culinary heritage – and as the birthplace of the Ferrari. We visit the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari; take a guided walking tour; and visit a family-run acetaia, where we learn about the making of balsamic vinegar, a Modena specialty. Then we travel on to Bologna and dine tonight at our hotel.
Hotel Internazionale Bologna
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 9 – Friday, October 3, 2025
Bologna
We get our first taste of this lively historic capital and largest city of Emilia-Romagna on a morning walking tour of grand Piazza Maggiore and its highlights: Basilica of San Petronio, with its half-finished marble façade; 12th-century Asinelli Tower, and the Fountain of Neptune. We also see the Teatro Comunal opera house and stroll through Quadrilatero Mar¬ket, abounding with fresh local foods of all kinds – and some of Italy’s best street food. The remain¬der of the day is free to explore as we wish, and for lunch and dinner on our own in this city renowned for its fine cuisine.
Hotel Internazionale Bologna
Breakfast (B)
DAY 10 – Saturday, October 4, 2025
Bologna
Today is free for independent exploration, perhaps to explore some of the nearly 25 miles of porticoes (a UNESCO site) dating to the Middle Ages that start in the well-preserved city center; to see the Michelangelo sculptures in San Domenico Basilica; or to explore more of Bologna’s impressive food scene. Tonight, we savor a small group highlight as we attend a private cooking class where we make Bologna’s traditional tortellini, tagliatelle, and ragu – then enjoy our handiwork for dinner.
Hotel Internazionale Bologna
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 11 – Sunday, October 5, 2025
Bologna/Florence
We travel today to Florence, “cradle of the Renaissance” and storied city of arts and culture. Our first stop: San Lorenzo Market, where we can browse the outdoor stalls and have lunch on our own at the indoor Central Market. This afternoon’s touring takes in the historic city center (a UNESCO site): the Baptistry, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and Santa Maria del Fiore – the fabled Duomo of Brunelleschi’s dome. Then, we visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David and his sculptures for the papal tombs.
Hotel Rivoli
Breakfast, Lunch (B,D)
DAY 12 – Monday, October 6, 2025
Florence
On this morning’s excursion to Scuola del Cuoio, we learn about Florence’s time-honored leather-making process and watch artisans as they craft fine bags, jackets, and other items. This afternoon is free for independent exploration; tonight, we dine together at a local restaurant.
Hotel Rivoli
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 13 – Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Florence
Another tour highlight today as we visit the world-renowned Uffizzi Gallery of paint¬ings and sculpture, home to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and La Primavera, da Vinci’s Annunciation, and other masterpieces by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Fra Angelico, among others. Then we have the rest of the day to explore Florence as we wish.
Hotel Rivoli
Breakfast (B)
DAY 14 – Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Florence/Rome
We travel through the gentle scenery of the Italian countryside en route to Rome today. After our mid-day arrival, we join our Tour Director for an informal walking tour of the neighborhood surrounding our hotel.
Monti Palace Hotel
Breakfast (B)
DAY 15 – Thursday, October 9, 2025
Rome
More outstanding art is on tap as we tour the famed Borghese Gallery, with its collection of masterworks by Raphael, Titian, Correggio, Bernini, and more. From here, we’re free for independent exploration in this city brimming with history. Tonight, we celebrate our adventure and bid arrivederci to Italy at a farewell dinner.
Monti Palace Hotel
Breakfast, Dinner (B,D)
DAY 16 – Friday, October 10, 2025
Depart for U.S.
We transfer to the airport this morning for our return flight to the U.S.
Breakfast (B)
Post Tour Extension
Rome: On Your Own
October 10-12, 2025
3 days/2 nights $395 per person, double occupancy
Single supplement: $155
Included in Extension Price: 2 nights’ accommodations at Monti Palace Hotel (Superior First Class); 2 meals: 2 breakfasts; Transfer to airport.
• NH Collection Milano Touring – 3 nights
• Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel Des Arts – 3 nights
• Hotel Internazionale Bologna – 3 nights
• Hotel Rivoli – 3 nights
• Monti Palace Hotel – 2 nights
24 meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 8 dinners
$7,095 per person, double occupancy, land only
Price: $7,595 per person, double occupancy with economy class round-trip airfare from Washington, DC, plus $679 airline taxes and fees, which are subject to change until final payment is made.
$7,795 per person, double occupancy with economy class round-trip airfare from Charlottesville, VA, plus $679 airline taxes and fees
Other Gateway Cities Are Available
A limited number of single rooms will be available for a supplement of $1,795 to the per person, double occupancy rates.
Airline upgrades (subject to availability; pricing subject to change) on round-trip Trans-Atlantic flight: Business Class - $3,995 per person; Premium Economy - $1,795 per person.
Price includes: Round-trip air transportation from listed cities; 14 nights’ accommodations in Superior First Class and First Class Hotels; extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees; services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director; private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip; luggage handling for one bag per person; gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers.
Price Does Not include: Airfare and airport transfers when purchasing a Land Only package; airfare from your hometown to your departure city; costs of passports and visas; immunizations and inoculations; personal expenses such as beverages, laundry, room service, and meals not specified; communication charges; optional sightseeing or shore excursions; gratuities to your Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director, which are at your discretion (suggested gratuities: $10–$15 per traveler, per day); and travel protection insurance.
Additional baggage fees may apply and are subject to change at any time. You should confirm directly with your airline(s) prior to departure.
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 866-765-2646 or e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A deposit of $500 per person (a $200 service fee is non-refundable) is required to reserve your spot. Final invoicing will be done approximately 110 days prior to departure. Final payment is due 95 days prior to departure (June 22, 2025).Your reservation is not confirmed until your deposit is paid and processed. Payment may be made by American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or VISA, or by personal check. If paying by check, please make check payable to our tour operator, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc.
Odysseys Unlimited, Inc., reserves the right to cancel any reservations that are not paid in full at any time after final payment is due. If you make your reservation after the final payment date, payment in full will be required upon reservation.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
The following is intended to provide you with a description of what to expect when you reserve this tour. Upon booking, you will be asked to acknowledge your acceptance of the full Terms and Conditions on the secure on-line portal, My Odyssey.
Cavalier Travels reserves the right to use photos that might include you in marketing materials and for other purposes unless you specify otherwise.
Payment Schedule: A deposit of $500 per person (a $200 service fee is non-refundable) confirms your reservation. The balance of your invoice is due 95 days (June 22, 2025) before departure.
Cancellation, Refunds, and Changes: If you must cancel your trip, the effective date of cancellation will be upon the University of Virginia’s receipt of your notification. Refunds for cancellations are subject to the following per person charges: cancel 95 days or more before departure: $200 charge; cancel 94-65 days before departure: 25% of tour price; cancel 64-45 days before departure: 50% of tour price; cancel 44-30 days before departure: 75% of tour price; cancel 29-0 days before departure: no refund. If you make any changes to your reservation from 94 to 30 days prior to departure, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. will apply a $100 per person administrative fee, in addition to any fees or penalties imposed by third parties. Changes are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. If your reservation changes from double occupancy to single occupancy for any reason, you will be charged the single supplement. No changes are allowed within 30 days of departure.
Upon reservation, you must provide your full legal name as it appears on your passport, as well as your date of birth and gender. In the event an airline ticket is issued with incorrect information you have provided, you will be responsible for charges associated with the ticket’s reissue.
Responsibility: The liability of the University of Virginia, as sponsor, and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc., as tour operator, is strictly limited. Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. purchases transportation, hotel accommodations, and restaurant and other services from independent suppliers not under our control. We serve only as agents for these suppliers in securing tour arrangements, and therefore will not accept responsibility for wrongful, negligent, or arbitrary acts or omissions of these independent contractors, or of their employees, agents, servants, or representatives. The University of Virginia and Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. are not liable for injury, damage, loss, accident, or delay that may be caused by events not within our control, including, without limitation, acts of terrorism, war, strikes, the defect of any vehicle, or the negligence or default of any third party. All coupons, receipts, and tickets issued are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the air carriers, cruise lines, and other independent suppliers. We will make every effort to operate our tours as planned, but we reserve the right to make itinerary changes as necessary. If unforeseen circumstances require us to change a hotel, we will select alternative accommodations of the same or better quality.
Health and Medical Issues: We request that you be in good health to participate in this University of Virginia tour. There is a considerable amount of walking, and you must be able to get on and off motorcoaches on your own. We regret that we cannot offer individual assistance; in such cases you must be accompanied by a companion who will assist you. Please note that many of our itineraries, for reasons beyond our control, cannot accommodate wheelchairs. Please call or e-mail us to inquire and we will do our best to answer any questions you may have. We reserve the right to remove anyone whose physical or mental condition, in our opinion, compromises the operation of the tour or detracts from the enjoyment or safety of the other passengers. In that event, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. and the University of Virginia assume no financial responsibility for any unused portion of the tour.
Air Transportation – Important Information: Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. includes in its tour price round-trip economy air from designated gateway cities, and contracts with those airlines the company feels provide the level of service, routings, and value necessary for your entire trip. While another airline may offer a more direct connection, it may be at a price unavailable at the lower group rates. You will receive your preliminary air schedule approximately 2½ months prior to departure. Please note that seat assignment on your international flight is usually done at airport check-in. Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. is unable to guarantee any seat assignments. Due to the nature of tour operator tickets, other restrictions apply, including, but not limited to, frequent flyer mileage accrual, stopovers, alternate travel dates, upgrades, and airline taxes and fees. If you prefer to make your own travel arrangements, Land Only is available on most tours. Since international and domestic air schedules are subject to change at any time, we recommend that if you choose to make your own airline reservations, you do not purchase non-refundable tickets or those with high penalties for changes. If you choose to make your own air arrangements, Odysseys Unlimited, Inc. shall not have any liability for any loss resulting from cancellation of this tour or changes in this tour.