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active 5 days ago

Fabio Ilardi

Originally from Italy, I lived and worked in 6 different countries and traveled across about 40 more around the globe.
During my travels, I love to interact with local people, visit monuments and art galleries, taste local food, spend time connecting with nature, and get to know as much as I can of the local culture. I truly believe that traveling provides us unique chances of growth, at any stage of our lives.
I really love, as a local agent, to expose foreign travelers to my country’s beautiful history, culture, nature, and all the great experiences that it has to offer.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Our expertise spans both Italy's famous landmarks and its lesser-known, hidden gems. We regularly explore Italy to discover new travel opportunities, unveiling unique experiences for our clients along the way.

We create itineraries that embrace a wide array of activities, including hiking expeditions, guided explorations of historical sites, city strolls or cycling tours, boat adventures, delightful culinary and wine experiences, and immersive visits to local wineries. Our seasoned guides enhance your journey, ensuring it becomes an unforgettable experience."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have always been fascinated by our world’s different cultures, customs, and history since I was a little kid. My first experience living abroad - in Norway - back in 2013, working in the tourism industry as a travel advisor and private guide at close contact with people from all-over the world, made me realize how important of a chance that would have been for my personal growth.
I still remember how it filled me with joy, hearing positive comments from my guests while admiring the views over the Norwegian fjords and the surrounding mountains – and it still definitely does, when I see tourists strolling around Italy’s ancient streets with an amazed look on their faces.

From that year after, I haven’t stopped moving around to explore the wonders of this planet. Even if only for a few days trip, I try to do that as much as I can.

I now happily live in Italy, Lake Como area, where I love to spend time riding my motorcycle, take amazing photos over the lake and the majestic alps in the background, or go for hiking excursions with friends.
From time to time, I like to treat myself at nice restaurants or take an Italian "aperitivo" with views over beautiful Lake Como. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I carry with love the memories of my solo trip through Morocco in 2016. I covered around 2000 Km in a week, met people from different areas and backgrounds, while the main highlight was spending a night in the Sahara looking at the stars.

I flew to Marrakech with only one night booked at a local hostel, and nothing planned at all for the rest of the trip. I didn’t do much research either, as it was a very last-minute arrangement, plus, I was working so much the days prior to the departure.

The very first day I casually met the hostel manager who was born and raised in Italy from a Moroccan family and recently moved to Marrakech to start a new life. She advised me to take a 3-day tour through ancient Casbahs, Atlas Mountains, and Merzouga Desert. Here we go, I know what to visit for the next 3 days.

The morning after I jumped on a minibus and slowly started to collect all the other participants form their accommodations. We were a mix of people from Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, and of course myself from Italy. The second day we even picked up a random Japanese guy on the way, who was literally boiling while walking under 45 degrees burning sun - God knows where he was trying to go, so he joined.

As we approached the Sahara, dunes were getting taller and taller and amazingly beautiful with their unique golden shades. We left the minibus after having taken a good amount of water for the afternoon and the night - which we obviously all forgot in the trunk and realized it only later in the afternoon – and took a camel to reach the tents camp.
The sunset was unreal, and even more unreal the night sky. I hadn’t seen anything like that before, and still now, many years after, I haven’t experienced such a clear vision of the night sky. We could literally see the universe. We eventually all fell asleep on the carpets out in the dunes close to the camp.

Fun fact - in the morning we were all set to leave the camp on our camels, when the first one in the line started to groan, all of a sudden it went crazy and ran away from the group. Consequently, all the others followed the first, I remember I struggled so much trying to stay on the running camel, but others in the group fell down. Nothing serious happened luckily.

After these 3-day tour I spent the remaining time with some people from the group and we ended the trip together. We are still in touch and this trip I believe is one that I will never forget.
"

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Fabio

Amazing week exploring Italy!
Italy | Jul 7 - Jul 14, 2026

B
Bonnie W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2026
We had an amazing week in Italy! We were able to truly relax and enjoy every moment because all of the stress of travel was taken care of by our incredible tour agent, Fabio. Every tour exceeded our expectations, and each guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely passionate about sharing the history, culture, and traditions of Italy. Some of the highlights included our unforgettable food tour with Matteo, a private winery tour and delicious lunch with Martina and her family, and... Read more

We had an amazing week in Italy! We were able to truly relax and enjoy every moment because all of the stress of travel was taken care of by our incredible tour agent, Fabio.

Every tour exceeded our expectations, and each guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely passionate about sharing the history, culture, and traditions of Italy.

Some of the highlights included our unforgettable food tour with Matteo, a private winery tour and delicious lunch with Martina and her family, and exploring the beautiful islands of Venice with Elena.

Thank you to everyone who made this trip so special. It was an unforgettable experience, and we can't wait to return!

Hotel Reviews
Charme Spagna Boutique Hotel
Rome

Our room was quiet, clean, and centrally located, making it the perfect base for exploring the area. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and incredibly helpful throughout our stay. We had a wonderful experience and would gladly stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Cute little outside area to eat breakfast and drink cappuccino.
Location
Centrally located, we were able to walk all over the city.
Staff
So friendly and helpful. We landed really early and were able store luggage and grab water before exploring the area.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Quiet neighborhood, comfortable bed, and very clean.
Hotel Pendini
Florence

Located in the heart of Florence, this hotel was spacious, clean, and perfectly situated for exploring the city. Being right next to the square was incredibly convenient, although it was a bit louder in the evening than I would have preferred. The breakfast room was fantastic, and the croissants were absolutely delicious—the perfect way to start each day.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful antiques throughout, with windows that opened to the square. Lots of old photos in hallways that were interesting to look at.
Location
Convienient to many shops, restaurants, and points of interests.
Staff
Everything was well kept and one gentleman that worked the breakfast room was so delightful, I wish I had gotten his name. It was obvious he enjoyed his job.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Extremely clean.
Hotel Sant'Antonin
Venice

This hotel was in a great location, just a short walk from the canal for convenient water taxi transportation. It was close to excellent restaurants, yet far enough away to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep. Our room featured large windows overlooking one of the few private gardens in the area, providing a beautiful and tranquil view.

Authenticity & Character
Nice back garden and breakfast room. Lots of antiques, and a front courtyard.
Location
Close to things, but on a quieter street.
Staff
Very friendly and offered to assist every time we entered or exited the hotel.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean, beds and bedding were not the most comfortable.
Activity Reviews
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Florence

While Siena and San Gimignano were both amazing medieval villages to explore, the highlight of the day was our private winery tour and lunch with Martina and her family. The homemade food and Chianti were absolutely delicious, and the setting was breathtaking—like stepping into an Italian painting. It was a truly authentic and unforgettable experience that we will always remember.

Quality of Experience
It was such an intimate experience, we truly felt like we were having lunch at a friend's house. If the friend lived in a Tuscan farmhouse and had a mother that was a great cook.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Martina and her mother were excellent hosts, and we got to learn the history of their family and their vineyard.
Transport
Samuel was an absolutely wonderful driver!
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

We learned so much about the history of ancient Rome on this tour. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand and engaging. Her passion for the subject made the experience even more enjoyable, and we came away with a much deeper appreciation for the history of Rome.

Quality of Experience
So informative, we walked away wanting to learn more.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was fantastic, she was from the area and had lots of knowledge.
Transport
We did have an issue with our transportation there not showing up. Fabio responded quickly and we were able to grab a taxi and still be on time for the tour.
Private Murano and Burano Tour: Discover the Magic of Venice's Islands
Private Murano and Burano Tour: Discover the Magic of Venice's Islands
Venice

Elena was so engaging, friendly, and welcoming. She shared so much about the local culture and history, making the tour both informative and enjoyable. Burano was an absolute gem and was definitely the biggest surprise of our trip. As we traveled through the canals, Elena pointed out each of the islands we passed and was a wealth of knowledge about them. Her enthusiasm and expertise made this one of the highlights of our visit to Venice. The perfect ending of our week in Italy.

Quality of Experience
Such a fun way to spend an afternoon while learning a ton about the region.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Elena was amazing, full of energy and knowledge.
Transport
It was so much fun getting to take water taxis to the different islands. It was also great to get picked up at our hotel.
Visit Lucca & Pisa with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Visit Lucca & Pisa with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Italy

Throughout the tour, Andreas shared fascinating insights into the local culture and history at every stop. In Lucca, we learned about the village's rich past, visited the home associated with the story of Pinocchio, and explored the lively market square that was once an ancient Roman gladiatorial arena. We then enjoyed lunch and a wine tasting at Fattoria Enzo Carmignani, where our gracious hostess introduced us to several excellent white and red wines. It was a very different experience from the smaller, family-owned winery we had visited a few days earlier, giving us an appreciation for another side of Tuscany's wine culture. The day concluded in Pisa, which was the highlight of the tour. Andreas provided an in-depth history of the Leaning Tower, explaining both the era in which it was built and the remarkable engineering efforts that have preserved it over the centuries. His enthusiasm, expertise, and storytelling made this one of the highlights of our visit to Tuscany.

Quality of Experience
As silly as it sounds it was so fun to visit and climb the leaning tower.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone was so engaging. While we found the more intimate experience at another vineyard more relaxing, it was interesting to see and taste some of the other wines of the region.
Transport
Andreas is an excellent driver and tour guide giving us lots of information about every area we visited.
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Rome

Matteo was a fantastic guide and introduced us to a less touristy part of the city, where we were able to experience some of the region's most delicious and authentic foods. It was such a fun and flavorful experience and a wonderful way to explore neighborhoods we might never have discovered on our own. We also enjoyed meeting some of the local people who live and work in the area, which made the tour feel even more authentic. This was an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of our trip.

Quality of Experience
One of our top experiences, fun and informative.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was so friendly and engaging, it was like meeting up with a friend for food in drinks.
Transport
We walked, but guide was on time and gave perfect meeting instructions.
Private Tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Private Tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Rome

It was clear that our tour guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and well educated on the subject. She shared a wealth of fascinating information throughout the tour and even extended our time together to show us a few additional sites. My husband asked plenty of questions, and she answered every one with confidence and depth. Her expertise and enthusiasm made the experience both informative and enjoyable, and we left with a much greater appreciation for the history and culture.

Quality of Experience
The Sistine chapel is breathtaking. Must do experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
So much history to the Vatican, having a knowledgeable tour guide makes the experience so much better.
Transport
Walking tour and we met guide there.
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Florence

This tour was definitely helpful in understanding the rich history of Florence. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and did a wonderful job bringing the city's history to life. The experience gave us a much deeper appreciation for Florence and its incredible cultural heritage.

Quality of Experience
Great way to better understand Florence and it's history.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide (Jessica, I believe) was extremely knowledgeable and brought the city to light.
Transport
walking tour, guide met us promptly at our hotel
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Jul 16, 2026
Buongiorno Bonnie, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your kind words. It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your trip to Italy, and I am delighted to hear that you were able to relax and fully enjoy the experience while we took care of the logistics. I am especially happy that you enjoyed your time with Matteo, Martina and her family, and Elena. They are all passionate about what they do, and I know they will be thrilled to hear your feedback. Thank you again for... Read more

Buongiorno Bonnie,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your kind words.

It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your trip to Italy, and I am delighted to hear that you were able to relax and fully enjoy the experience while we took care of the logistics.

I am especially happy that you enjoyed your time with Matteo, Martina and her family, and Elena. They are all passionate about what they do, and I know they will be thrilled to hear your feedback.

Thank you again for trusting us with your trip. It was a pleasure working with you, and I hope Italy has left you with many beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

I look forward to welcoming you all back in the future for another Italian adventure! 🙂

Wishing you all the best!

Arrivederci,
Fabio

Tour of Rome, Florence and the Amalfi Coast
Italy | May 16 - May 29, 2026

Lisa
Lisa B.
New York, NY, USA | Reviewed on Jul 04, 2026
Fabio executed our vacation flawlessly. He was willing to meet as often as needed and was a great communicator. From the very beginning planning stages he listened to what we had to say and worked with us to plan a lovely trip of Rome, Florence, and Positano, including day trips to neighboring towns. He arranged for hotels (within our budget), transportation (train and private car service), and excursions based upon our requests. He used top notch providers and bilingual tour guides. He... Read more

Fabio executed our vacation flawlessly. He was willing to meet as often as needed and was a great communicator. From the very beginning planning stages he listened to what we had to say and worked with us to plan a lovely trip of Rome, Florence, and Positano, including day trips to neighboring towns. He arranged for hotels (within our budget), transportation (train and private car service), and excursions based upon our requests. He used top notch providers and bilingual tour guides. He was available to troubleshoot during the trip as well, and could always be reached throughout our trip. He made dinner reservations and recommendations, and was kind enough to assist our daughters with a rooftop reservation, even though they were not part of our trip.
Some of our favorite days were the wine tour at Rocca Farm with Martina and her family, and the Donna Rita cooking class in Sorrento with Giacomo and his parents. We definitely preferred the less crowded, more intimate tours.
Personally, the only thing I would do differently is I would build in a day or two to relax and just enjoy, but that was our decision to plan something daily, not his!
I highly recommend Fabio and his travel planning services. He is kind, considerate, attentive and competent, and an absolute pleasure to work with!

Hotel Review
Poseidon Hotel
Positano

Lovely family owned hotel in the heart of Positano. delcious food, gracious people, immaculately maintained. Fabulous pool area, restaurant and rooftop bar.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Jul 06, 2026
Ciao Lisa, Thank you so much for this wonderful review and for taking the time to share your experience. It was truly a pleasure working with you and helping plan your journey through beautiful Italy. I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed experiences such as the wine tour at Rocca Farm and the cooking class with Giacomo and his family. Those authentic and personal experiences are often the moments that travelers remember most, and I am delighted that they became highlights of your... Read more

Ciao Lisa,

Thank you so much for this wonderful review and for taking the time to share your experience.

It was truly a pleasure working with you and helping plan your journey through beautiful Italy.

I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed experiences such as the wine tour at Rocca Farm and the cooking class with Giacomo and his family. Those authentic and personal experiences are often the moments that travelers remember most, and I am delighted that they became highlights of your trip.

Thank you as well for your kind words about my support before and during the journey. Being available for my clients every step of the way is something I care deeply about, so it means a lot to know that it made a difference. 🙏🏻

I hope this trip to Italy left you with memories that will last a lifetime, and I would be delighted to help you plan another Italian adventure in the future.

Thank you again for your support and recommendation. As a small business owner, it truly means the world to me.

Wishing you all the very best!

Arrivederci a presto,
Fabio

Planning made easy!
Italy | Apr 17 - May 2, 2026

Lisa
Lisa M.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 18, 2026
We used KimKim to help plan our 30th anniversary trip to Italy, and we could not have asked for a better experience. From the very beginning, our planning specialist, Fabio, was exceptional. He truly listened to what we wanted from our trip and was incredibly patient as we explored different ideas and made decisions. He provided thoughtful suggestions, helped us find wonderful places to stay, and created an itinerary that felt personal and perfectly suited to us.
Our journey took us to Lake...
Read more

We used KimKim to help plan our 30th anniversary trip to Italy, and we could not have asked for a better experience. From the very beginning, our planning specialist, Fabio, was exceptional. He truly listened to what we wanted from our trip and was incredibly patient as we explored different ideas and made decisions. He provided thoughtful suggestions, helped us find wonderful places to stay, and created an itinerary that felt personal and perfectly suited to us.
Our journey took us to Lake Como, Venice, Florence (including a wine tasting experience in the Tuscany region), and Positano. Each destination was made even more special by the amazing guides and drivers who helped us experience Italy in such a meaningful way. Our tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, sharing the history, culture, and stories of each area we visited. They helped bring each location to life and gave us insights we would never have discovered on our own.
One of the highlights of our trip was the incredible drivers assigned to us in each location. We often had the same driver for multiple days, which allowed us to build a real connection and get to know each other. We spent many hours with them each day, and they became so much more than transportation providers. They shared stories about their families, their culture, and their lives in Italy, making our experience feel authentic and personal. They were also wonderful guides in their own right, telling us about the history and traditions of the places we traveled through.
Our drivers and guides were always friendly, helpful, and willing to customize our days whenever possible. When we wanted to make changes during the trip or add more time to explore certain areas, Fabio was always available and quickly helped make those adjustments happen. His flexibility allowed us to see even more and enjoy our time without stress.
This was a once-in-a-lifetime anniversary trip, and KimKim helped make it truly unforgettable. We are so grateful to Fabio, our guides, and our drivers for creating such a memorable and personal Italian adventure. We would highly recommend KimKim to anyone looking for a thoughtfully planned and customized travel experience.

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Jun 19, 2026
Buongiorno Lisa, Thank you so much for this incredibly kind and thoughtful review. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Eric from the very beginning and helping shape your 30th anniversary trip to Italy. I am really happy to hear that the itinerary felt personal and well suited to you both, and that each destination—from Lake Como to Venice, Florence, Tuscany, and Positano—delivered such special memories. I am especially glad that the guides and drivers helped bring the... Read more

Buongiorno Lisa,

Thank you so much for this incredibly kind and thoughtful review.

It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Eric from the very beginning and helping shape your 30th anniversary trip to Italy. I am really happy to hear that the itinerary felt personal and well suited to you both, and that each destination—from Lake Como to Venice, Florence, Tuscany, and Positano—delivered such special memories.

I am especially glad that the guides and drivers helped bring the experience to life in such an authentic and meaningful way. I will make sure to share your lovely words with them, as I know they will be very happy to hear this.

I also really appreciate your mention of the flexibility during the trip. Being able to adjust things in real time is exactly how I want my clients to travel, so I am happy it made such a difference for you.

Thank you again for trusting me with such an important celebration. I would be delighted to help you and Eric plan another Italian adventure in the future.

Wishing you both many more years of happiness together ❤️

Arrivederci,
Fabio

Florence and Lake Como - Memories for life
Italy | May 12 - May 22, 2026

D
Dannie P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on May 31, 2026
We traveled to Florence and Lake Como to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary, and working with Fabio made every moment of it truly epic. From the very beginning, Fabio was responsive, attentive, and genuinely invested in making our trip special. Every provider he arranged — drivers, guides, and tour operators — was professional, friendly, and flexible throughout. The wine tastings were wonderful, and the private boat tour on Lake Como was the absolute highlight of the entire... Read more

We traveled to Florence and Lake Como to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary, and working with Fabio made every moment of it truly epic.

From the very beginning, Fabio was responsive, attentive, and genuinely invested in making our trip special. Every provider he arranged — drivers, guides, and tour operators — was professional, friendly, and flexible throughout. The wine tastings were wonderful, and the private boat tour on Lake Como was the absolute highlight of the entire trip.

What truly set Fabio apart was how effortlessly he handled everything. We came in not quite knowing what to expect, and his expertise turned that uncertainty into complete confidence. When we needed a last-minute change to our itinerary, he accommodated our request without hesitation and without question. That kind of flexibility and grace under pressure is rare.

Fabio also went above and beyond with a truly special and thoughtful anniversary gift — a gesture that meant more than words can say and made our celebration even more memorable.

I would absolutely recommend Fabio and KimKim to anyone looking for an expert who will handle it all and make it amazing. If you want to hand everything over to someone you can trust completely and have it turn out epic — Fabio is your person.

Hotel Reviews
Palace Hotel
Como
Authenticity & Character
Location
Lake Como view from the room
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Kraft
Florence
Authenticity & Character
Location
Great location, walking distance from Arno river.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
From Lake Como to the Borromean Islands: A Day of Elegance and Discovery
From Lake Como to the Borromean Islands: A Day of Elegance and Discovery
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
4-Hour Boat Experience - Explore Lake Como
4-Hour Boat Experience - Explore Lake Como
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on May 31, 2026
Buongiorno Dannie, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review. It was truly a pleasure helping you plan such a special trip to celebrate your 20th wedding anniversary, and I am delighted to hear that Florence and Lake Como provided such memorable experiences for you and Joseph. 🙂 Your kind words about my assistance mean a great deal to me. My goal is always to make the planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible, while creating an itinerary that feels... Read more

Buongiorno Dannie,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review.

It was truly a pleasure helping you plan such a special trip to celebrate your 20th wedding anniversary, and I am delighted to hear that Florence and Lake Como provided such memorable experiences for you and Joseph. 🙂

Your kind words about my assistance mean a great deal to me. My goal is always to make the planning process as smooth and stress-free as possible, while creating an itinerary that feels personal and memorable. I am pleased that I was able to provide the flexibility and support you needed, including accommodating the last-minute changes to your plans.

I am also very happy that the anniversary gift added something special to your celebration. Milestone occasions like a 20th wedding anniversary deserve to be celebrated in a meaningful way, and it was an honor to be a small part of that experience.

Thank you again for your trust, your kindness, and for allowing me to help create these memories. I truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to have the opportunity to assist you with another Italian adventure in the future. 🥰

Wishing you and Joseph all the best!

Greetings from beautiful Italy,
Fabio

Review of our 13 day trip throughout Italy-
Italy | May 14 - May 26, 2026

Elizabeth
Elizabeth S.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on May 28, 2026
Fabio did an excellent job in designing the perfect 13 day Italy trip for us based upon our requests. He gave helpful suggestions and guidance , responded quickly to our questions, and was available to help us with any need during our trip.
This was my second time using KimKim and it has been a smooth and easy process from planning to execution.
The transportation transfers and day trips were excellent and on time. The boutique hotels that Fabio selected were great. Antonella, our... Read more

Fabio did an excellent job in designing the perfect 13 day Italy trip for us based upon our requests. He gave helpful suggestions and guidance , responded quickly to our questions, and was available to help us with any need during our trip.
This was my second time using KimKim and it has been a smooth and easy process from planning to execution.

The transportation transfers and day trips were excellent and on time. The boutique hotels that Fabio selected were great.

Antonella, our walking tour guide in Florence was wonderful and we learned so much from her. The day trip to Siena and San Gimignano with a visit to a local winery was a highlight for us. Andrea, our driver, gave us so much history and background which helped us navigate each town. We thoroughly enjoyed the visit and lunch at the Winery in Tuscany.
We visited the Duomo, Santa Croce, The Leather School, The Academy, the Uffizi, and the Pitti Palace and the plaza de Michelangelo, the Ponte Vecchio, the markets and more! We also had a delicious Florentine steak at Casa Del Santo.

Our guide, Tanya, in Rome gave us an excellent tour of the Coliseum and Roman Forum. It was an amazing experience.
On our own, we strolled the streets of Trastevere and ate at Trattoria Lungaretta which was a 300 year old restaurant. Delicious. We stumbled upon a beautiful Botanical garden in Trastevere, and toured Basilica Di S. Maria. We walked all over Rome and saw the Plaza Novana, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps ( and ate lunch at the Hassler Hotel Terrace), the Mouth of Truth, the Vittriano. Tanya, our walking tour guide, gave us an excellent tour of the Coliseum and the Roman Forum. And she also guided us through the Vatican Museums. We learned so much from her. She was excellent.

After our three days in Rome, we set off for three days in Positano in the Amalfi Coast. Breathtakingly beautiful! We enjoyed our boat trip to Capri and rode the chair lift in Ana Capri. Our guide for Pompeii was excellent as well, and we enjoyed the winery and lunch sheduled that day as well. in Positano we enjoyed an excellent dinner at Rada down on the beachfront.

Overall, our trip to Italy was a trip of a lifetime.. one that we will treasure for the rest of our lives! Thank you, Fabio and Kim Kim!

Beth, Libba and Randy Sprinkle

Hotel Reviews
Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort
Venice

A hotel with lots of character located in a great location. Friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Villa Gabrisa
Positano

Beautiful boutique hotel with a friendly and helpful staff. Also had an excellent restaurant on site.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Baglioni Firenze
Florence

This hotel, which has been an icon for years, was a little dated and filled with convention people. Service was not great.

Authenticity & Character
it was dated--needs to be updated
Location
Close to the Duomo-
Staff
they needed to be friendlier and more responsive to requests
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius with Lunch and Wine Tasting at a Vineyard by the Volcano
Explore Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius with Lunch and Wine Tasting at a Vineyard by the Volcano
Italy
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Positano
Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Positano
Italy

We enjoyed the boat trip to Capri- we only wish we had more time on Capri. We had only 3 hours instead of the 4-5 promised, but we thoroughly enjoyed the time we did have there.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Private Tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Rome

Tanya was an excellent guide

Quality of Experience
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Florence

Andrea, our driver, was excellent and provided us with history and great insights which helped us navigate each town. The Lunch and winery visit was a highlight of our entire trip. The setting was absolutely beautiful and the hosts were most gracious and fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
on time, informative and helpful
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on May 29, 2026
Buongiorno Elizabeth, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your trip. 🙏🏻 I am very happy to hear that your journey through Italy met your expectations and that the itinerary worked so well for you from start to finish. I am also very glad that your experiences in Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast were such highlights, and that the guides and drivers contributed so positively to your understanding and enjoyment of each... Read more

Buongiorno Elizabeth,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your trip. 🙏🏻

I am very happy to hear that your journey through Italy met your expectations and that the itinerary worked so well for you from start to finish.

I am also very glad that your experiences in Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast were such highlights, and that the guides and drivers contributed so positively to your understanding and enjoyment of each destination. I will make sure to share your kind words with both the guides and drivers.

Thank you again for your trust and for choosing to travel with me. It was truly a pleasure assisting you, Randy, and Libba throughout the planning process and during your trip.

I look forward to helping you again with your next Italian adventure! 🙂

Wishing you all the very best!

Arrivederci,
Fabio

First Trip to Italy
Italy | May 4 - May 16, 2026

Michael Edward
Michael Edward B.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on May 28, 2026
Kim Kim and especially Fabio made my first trip to Italy one to remember! The ability to tailor our tours and timing really made the trip practically stress free. All of our guides were prepared and made checking in and following along with the incredible history and local facts during the tours a pleasure. Being a wine & spirits professional and traveling with a non-drinker was no problem as our trip was curated to highlight both our wants and wishes. Moving from Rome to Florence (throughout... Read more

Kim Kim and especially Fabio made my first trip to Italy one to remember! The ability to tailor our tours and timing really made the trip practically stress free. All of our guides were prepared and made checking in and following along with the incredible history and local facts during the tours a pleasure. Being a wine & spirits professional and traveling with a non-drinker was no problem as our trip was curated to highlight both our wants and wishes. Moving from Rome to Florence (throughout Tuscany) and then on to Venice was exactly the right move for us and transfers were seemless.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Sant'Antonin
Venice

What a spectacular location! The water taxi was able to drop us at the front entrance and the staff went above and beyond during our stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The front desk attendants helped us with tickets to the Vivaldi Concert and used an actual paper map to show us different dining options and attractions we were looking for.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Corte dei Sogni Boutique Hotel & Spa

We enjoyed the staff and the young lady who made us eggs and pancakes on different days in the breakfast room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
We were very close to the Central Market and the train station but our street was so quaint and had many dining options and easy access to our rides.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cellini
Rome

The hotel staff was very accommodating when we arrived early morning. They took and held our bags and we were able to tour parts of Rome while our room was prepared.

Authenticity & Character
The room was large and well appointed.
Location
The hotel location was near everything we were there to experience and the street was busy but quiet enough for us to relax after touring.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Venice Food & Wine Tasting Tour
Venice Food & Wine Tasting Tour
Venice

The food tour was one of the best of our trip. I was worried when Carlos started speaking as he talks very fast but it just added to the excitement of the tour. The food was excellent. The pace was great! Yummy!

Quality of Experience
Food
All the different cecchettis and local fare
Guides, Drivers and Staff
loved Carlos
Transport
Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride
Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride
Venice

I really enjoyed Venice. Marco is an encyclopedia of Venice history.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jewish Heritage Walking Tour: Cannaregio and Venice’s Historic Ghetto
Jewish Heritage Walking Tour: Cannaregio and Venice’s Historic Ghetto
Venice

Being married to a Jewish woman, this was a very special tour for me. The history was fascinating as sometimes I don't equate Italy to the Jewish heritage we found there. Very moving experience.

Quality of Experience
see above
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Giada was very knowledgeable and was great at sharing the history and adding personal touches to keep us engaged. We even stopped at Le Sete for a glass of wine and I was able to speak with the staff about their owner and the wine selections there.
Transport
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Florence

This was one of the top experiences for me as the wine regions are what I was hoping to add to my personal repertoire and education as a Certified Specialist of Wine. Lunch on the side of the vineyard was spectacular. Tasting vinegar, Olive oil and all the incredible wines with food is the best way to learn. What a setting! It was so special to tour the vineyards and winery of Patrizia Cencioni and then to taste (and purchase) her incredible wines of Montalcino. She was available for photos and to answer questions even while spending time with her granddaughter. My heart was full when we left for Florence. Sienna and San Gimignano were so quaint and inviting we enjoyed strolling through them both.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andrea knows Patrizia so we spent a little extra time chatting (using her daughter as translator) about life in the winery.
Transport
Florence Food Tour
Florence Food Tour
Florence

We enjoyed this tour immensely. All the local foods and wine were spectacular. I really enjoyed the Wine Windows and even had tripe for the first time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ezgi is a star! She really made the tempo of the tour feel relaxed and still gave us so many personalized tips throughout night.
Transport
Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Ticket
Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Ticket
Florence

We did this on our own and skip the line was great. People should know that window #2 is also window #3. After we figured that out we went on our way. We used a recorded guide to go through the museum.

Quality of Experience
Florence Cooking Class and Lunch at a Farmhouse in Tuscany with Local Market Tour
Florence Cooking Class and Lunch at a Farmhouse in Tuscany with Local Market Tour
Florence

This was soo much fun! Going to the Central Mercato and meeting with the vendors was fantastic! We all got to do most of the cooking and making pasta was a gas! The bus ride was quick and easy both going and coming from the estate kitchen.

Quality of Experience
Food
Fresh pasta and homemade sauce. We made bruschetta when we got home just to relive the dish! Very fun and a special experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Luca and Erika are a team that made the whole experience one of the highlights of our trip!
Transport
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Italy

I can't say enough about the experience in both locations. Having the right driver was imperative. I am a retired wine & spirits specialist and had plenty of knowledge coming in, but we all know visiting and tasting where the wines are made add to the education and romance of the wines.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Anrdea is a gem! I would come back to go truffle hunting or bird-watching with him.
Transport
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Florence

I'm so glad this was a small group (and not us trying to do it alone). There were plenty of people inside but being organized and listening to Valentina's guidance made it a wonderful experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Valentina was very engaging and obviously knew her stuff!
Transport
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Rome

Hillaria was on time and very knowledgeable. The amount of food was just right and the variety was amazing.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome

Having Bogden as our first tour guide set a high bar for our experiences. He was ready and organized and kept our attention through a long day in Rome. His dry humor and extensive knowledge made the tour a pleasure.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bogden was our guide for "Rome in a Day" and Hillaria took us on a wonderful food tour. The little bit of rain wasn't even a factor as all the spots were prepared for us/the group.
Transport
Having a ride to Vatican City from our hotel made the start of the day a bvreeze.
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Jun 01, 2026
Buongiorno Michael, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review. I am so happy to hear that your first trip to Italy was such a memorable experience and that the itinerary worked so well for both of you. I am also very glad to hear that the guides, drivers, and experiences throughout Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Venice all lived up to your expectations. Each of them will be very happy to read your kind words, as they put a lot of care into what they do every day.... Read more

Buongiorno Michael,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review.

I am so happy to hear that your first trip to Italy was such a memorable experience and that the itinerary worked so well for both of you.

I am also very glad to hear that the guides, drivers, and experiences throughout Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Venice all lived up to your expectations. Each of them will be very happy to read your kind words, as they put a lot of care into what they do every day. 🙂

It was a real pleasure working with you and Stacy, and I hope Italy stays in your memories for a long time. Whenever you decide to return, I would be more than happy to help you plan the next adventure!

Thank you again for trusting me with your trip and for taking the time to share this. Wishing you and Stacy all the best! 🙂

Arrivederci,
Fabio

We had an incredible trip to Italy!!! Every g...
Italy | May 7 - May 19, 2026

BECKY
BECKY F.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on May 20, 2026
We had an incredible trip to Italy!!! Every guide we had- Giarda in Venice, Ezgi in Florence, Jessica in Florence, Francisco at Pompei- were all fantastic. They were knowledgeable and engaging and so much fun!! All of our drivers were prompt and courteous and the Tuscany wine tour with Andrea was absolutely breathtaking and delicious!!! Fabio, our trip planner, was perfect. He was thorough and so responsive when we had any questions. He was always helpful and our trip was flawlessly planned... Read more

We had an incredible trip to Italy!!! Every guide we had- Giarda in Venice, Ezgi in Florence, Jessica in Florence, Francisco at Pompei- were all fantastic. They were knowledgeable and engaging and so much fun!! All of our drivers were prompt and courteous and the Tuscany wine tour with Andrea was absolutely breathtaking and delicious!!! Fabio, our trip planner, was perfect. He was thorough and so responsive when we had any questions. He was always helpful and our trip was flawlessly planned and exactly what we wanted. I would recommend his services to anyone traveling to Italy 1000%!!!!

Activity Reviews
Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Positano
Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Positano
Italy

Antonio and Giovanni were absolutely the best first mate and captain!! We had so much fun and learned a lot while touring on the boat to Capri! Interesting and very entertaining!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Private Tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, with Lunch at a Winery at the Foot of the Volcano
Full-Day Private Tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, with Lunch at a Winery at the Foot of the Volcano
Italy

Excellent day trip! Francisco was a great guide at Pompei and so knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Food
The lunch at the winery was exceptional as were the wines!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Italy

The entire day was absolutely beautiful and the wineries were spectacular. Andrea was charming and so very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this adventure- magnifico!!

Quality of Experience
The tastings and knowledge of the winery staff were exceptional.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andrea was so knowledgeable and interesting- perfect driver and guide
Transport
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Renaissance Walking Tour of Florence with David
Florence

Jessica was very knowledgeable about the city history and art. Very good walking tour and very informative.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Florence Food Tour
Florence Food Tour
Florence

Ezgi was very fun and the food was delicious!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice

My only complaint is it was too short!! Had a great time!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Venice Food Tour
Venice Food Tour
Venice

Giada was so much fun and the tour was interesting and very tasty!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome

We had an amazing tour and learned so much!! Carolina was so knowledgeable and so interesting!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on May 20, 2026
Buongiorno Becky, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such an amazing and detailed review. I am truly happy to hear that every part of your journey through Italy was such a success, from Rome, Florence, and Venice to Pompeii and Tuscany. It means a lot to know that you enjoyed each experience so much, and that the guides, drivers, and tours all came together exactly as planned. Most of all, I am really glad that you felt supported throughout the entire process and that... Read more

Buongiorno Becky,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such an amazing and detailed review.

I am truly happy to hear that every part of your journey through Italy was such a success, from Rome, Florence, and Venice to Pompeii and Tuscany. It means a lot to know that you enjoyed each experience so much, and that the guides, drivers, and tours all came together exactly as planned.

Most of all, I am really glad that you felt supported throughout the entire process and that everything felt smooth, well-organized, and tailored to what you wanted. That is always the goal.

Thank you again for your trust and for such kind words. I would be delighted to help you and Samantha again on your next Italian adventure!

Wishing you both all the very best! 🙂

Best,
Fabio

Trip of a lifetime!
Italy | May 4 - May 16, 2026

Stacy
Stacy B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on May 19, 2026
Everyone we had was great..Bogdan in Rome was so passionate and informative about the art and history, Hilaria introduced us to great Rome food, Valentina gave us a excellent intro to Florence art, Ezgi's private food, Gelato and wine windows tour really highlighted the Best of Florence, Marco showed us Venice with great tips, Guida shared so many hidden gems during our private tour and took time to map out out places for us to go, and Carlos' food tour of Venice was some of the best food of... Read more

Everyone we had was great..Bogdan in Rome was so passionate and informative about the art and history, Hilaria introduced us to great Rome food, Valentina gave us a excellent intro to Florence art, Ezgi's private food, Gelato and wine windows tour really highlighted the Best of Florence, Marco showed us Venice with great tips, Guida shared so many hidden gems during our private tour and took time to map out out places for us to go, and Carlos' food tour of Venice was some of the best food of our trip! In addition, the two standouts for us were Luca and Erika's Tuscan cooking class and our private days with Andrea. He took so much time to explain everything to us and his personal connections to the area and wineries made it truly special.

Fabio's attention to detail made us feel so cared for and we loved that so many of our guides and pick up/transfers knew Fabio personally.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Sant'Antonin
Venice

Right on little waterway, beautiful garden meal area, close to St. Marco square in the Castello neighborhood with lots of restaurants. Front desk helpful with concert tickets.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Issue with bath toilet and shower but staff quickly fixed it
Corte dei Sogni Boutique Hotel & Spa

Lots of USB charging ports, modern feel but in quaint older location, close to train station, near Mercado and restaurants

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Fresh made scrambled eggs to order
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cellini
Rome

Great hotel in good location, nice buffet breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
Quieter street, close to train area and central to most sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Venice Food & Wine Tasting Tour
Venice Food & Wine Tasting Tour
Venice

Carlos was great! You could tell he loved his city and the food. Best food of our tours.

Quality of Experience
Food
Everything and best Gelato of our whole trip!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride
Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride
Venice

It was an informative tour of Venice. Some of our group got lost so you have to keep up. Marco was great about taking photos of us during the tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jewish Heritage Walking Tour: Cannaregio and Venice’s Historic Ghetto
Jewish Heritage Walking Tour: Cannaregio and Venice’s Historic Ghetto
Venice

We weren't able to take this exact tour as it wasn't available but our private time with Guida was so informative and we felt like we were in on the secreta of Venice.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano | Lunch & Wine Tasting Included
Florence

Andrea again showed us amazing Tuscany. He gave us tips for our self guided walks through Siena and San Gimignano. The winery lunch was out of a fairy tale.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Florence Food Tour
Florence Food Tour
Florence

Ezgi was great. She took the time to make the perfect tour combining our love of Gelato and wine! It would be great to get a written list of places we visited or are suggested at end of tour as it is hard to write as we go.

Quality of Experience
Personal
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Ticket
Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Ticket
Florence

It was hard to figure out at first as there is no longer a door 3 and no need to find it. We just needed to get in line

Florence Cooking Class and Lunch at a Farmhouse in Tuscany with Local Market Tour
Florence Cooking Class and Lunch at a Farmhouse in Tuscany with Local Market Tour
Florence

Luca was so animated and really brought the Mercado to life. We learned so much during the class and the food was great!

Quality of Experience
Food
All of it! Bruschetta was so fresh and we still talk about it. We plan to make several dishes now at home!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Val D’Orcia & Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch and Two Wine Tastings
Italy

Andrea was great, so knowledgeable and personable. We loved Pienza. The winery tours were great. Well organized and professional and was good for someone from the wine industry as well as for someone who doesn't drink.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andrea was superb. He was a highlight of our trip!
Transport
I am a nervous passenger and always felt safe.
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Florence

Valentina was very personable and made the art and artists come alive

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums
Rome

This was a great intro to Roman art and history but was exhausting! Bogdan was very passionate and informative

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
One of the drivers was stuck in traffic and late
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Rome

It would be great to get a written list of places we visited or are suggested at end of tour as it is hard to write as we go

Quality of Experience
Food
The Gelato was a bit icey for us
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on May 25, 2026
Buongiorno Stacy,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It truly means a lot to hear how much you enjoyed your journey through Italy.
I am especially happy to know that each guide and experience left such a positive impression on you. I will make sure to share your kind words with everyone involved. 🙂
It was my absolute pleasure helping you and Michael plan your trip, and I am so glad you felt so well cared for throughout your time in Italy. I truly appreciate you trusting us with your...
Read more

Buongiorno Stacy,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. It truly means a lot to hear how much you enjoyed your journey through Italy.
I am especially happy to know that each guide and experience left such a positive impression on you. I will make sure to share your kind words with everyone involved. 🙂
It was my absolute pleasure helping you and Michael plan your trip, and I am so glad you felt so well cared for throughout your time in Italy. I truly appreciate you trusting us with your Italian adventure, and I hope Italy will welcome you back again soon for another unforgettable journey.
Wishing you and Michael all the best.
Arrivederci,
Fabio

Nine people from 14-78 years made a fabulous memory.
Italy | Apr 18 - Apr 25, 2026

Stephen
Stephen P.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Apr 29, 2026
I think my review would be more succinct using bullets:
*Overall: Fabio Ilardi did many things that preceded the final plan and were crucial to its success. He was knowledgeable, patient, he LISTENED to all my suggestions and concerns, he conveyed an enthusiasm for the task following through at every juncture resulting in a near flawless itinerary that was easy to navigate and access.

*Transportation: From planes to trains to vans, all went so smooth. Even though he had nothing to do...
Read more

I think my review would be more succinct using bullets:
*Overall: Fabio Ilardi did many things that preceded the final plan and were crucial to its success. He was knowledgeable, patient, he LISTENED to all my suggestions and concerns, he conveyed an enthusiasm for the task following through at every juncture resulting in a near flawless itinerary that was easy to navigate and access.

*Transportation: From planes to trains to vans, all went so smooth. Even though he had nothing to do with the airline reservations, he knew the details and incorporated into the itinerary. Vans were there without fail and drivers clearly communicated pick-up locations when access to certain areas was restricted or inconvenient. Trains were great. Having been to Italy 9 times (most of those trips doing my own driving), I was really pleased with the convenience of train travel.

*Accommodations:
Venice, Ca Negra Lagoon Resort. convenient location although the difficulties in trying to convert a 400 year old villa to a modern hotel were evident. No air conditioning as we were told the city did not allow it until May. That made for a stuffy room so we opened windows where possible. Shower plumbing was difficult to figure out (I wish hotels everywhere would opt for the simplest plumbing fixtures instead of fancy and complex.)
Florence: Frame Hotel. Great place. Great location. Loved the provenance associated with the Mona Lisa, discovered there after its theft in 1911.
Naples. Eurostars Hotel Excelsior. What a jewel! Way past expectations. Beautiful rooms. Elegant throughout. While all the included breakfasts were very good to great, here it was over the top...... buffet was 75 long! Waterfront construction made it a little tricky to negotiate but when completed, this will be quite a gem on the waterfront in the shadow of Vesuvius .
Rome. Terrace Pantheon Relais. Again, great location. Convenient to many of the common sites. Rooftop lounge.

*Activities:
Mask painting in Venice. We all had a ball and the kids loved it. Nice people.
Gondola Ride: Wonderful guide (Giada, as I recall) who commented that the traffic on the Grand Canal was unusually light making for a very relaxing excursion. Lots of fun facts.
Murano: all enjoyed the tour and demonstration. Very pleased that a family run business continues to thrive.
Burano: an unexpected treat. Had never been there. Lonardo(?) was fun to be with and seemed to know everyone. The only disappointment was that we had no real time to spend in the beautiful and unusual shops. We did visit a lace making shop and were amazed at the short demonstration and the intracacies of the goods on display.
Truffle hunt in Florence: Probably the highlight of the trip especially for the kids. Out for close to two hours and back with 3-4 lbs of truffles. Guide was a lot of fun and informative. Roberto and his dog, Dora, stole the show and everyone got a shot with the shovel. The luncheon at La Cantina dei Tartufi was, hands down, the best meal we had on the trip. Beautifully presented with wine pairings and exquisite food. Paola and his wife were the kind of people you'd want to be friends with. It was clearly evident they love what they do. I would go back there in a heartbeat.
Leonardo Da Vinci Interactive Museum. This was described as an "interactive" exhibit and it was. Not as impressive as the one we visited in the town of Vinci but fascinating none the less.
Herculaneum: Having been to Pompei on two other occasions, this was the more perfect initial introduction to the tragedy of Vesuvius. It was much more manageable and not at all crowded. Our guide, Veronica, was terrific, a wellspring of information and great at fielding questions from the kids.
Galleria Spada in Rome: My wife and I had been here twice before. Even though this is not a typical stop on most itineraries, everyone found it fascinating.
Pizza and Tiramisu making in the "In Rome Cooking School" . Gianlucca was a talented, captivating host. Everyone's creation passed the test for deliciousness especially the Tiramisu. Would not have missed this for sure. Tricky to find. No signage, only a discreet number and an unmarked door. Walked right passed it twice.
Rome Tour: Definitely a marathon but worth the craziness. Did not expect the crowds. Giorgio, our guide, had his challenges. The Vatican was a zoo and they wouldn't accept the bar code for the group tour. We had to email all our individual tickets to each other's phones before they would allow entry. Different lines for different groups and we weren't the only ones caught in the confusion. Giorgio, an excellent guide, did his best despite the lack of accommodation on the part of the Vatican personnel. Can't imagine that place in the summer during high season. The first time I was in the Sistine, 56 years ago, I was able to lay down on the floor and photograph the ceiling. This time, I would have been crushed under foot. They wouldn't have found me until closing! Our other stops (Coliseum, etc.) were much less difficult.

All in all, a great trip enjoyed in different ways by a diverse family group. I don't believe any one of us will be forgetting this one any time soon. Thank you to Fabio for his patience, resourcefulness and for delivering the goods. I am blessed that I had the luxury of not having to be overly conscious of the total cost (including airfare, three times that of my first home). And you know the old saying, "You can't take it with you!"

Hotel Reviews
Terrace Pantheon Relais
Rome

This was a good fit. Close to a lot realizing Rome is a difficult city to navigate. The transportation people made that easy despite oppressive traffic everywhere.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eurostars Hotel Excelsior
Napoli NA

I asked for clean, comfortable, well located hotels in safe locations. This place was over the top. Luxury and provenance evident everywhere despite its age (108 years). Exquisite rooms and location, right on the water. Rooftop restaurant and bar with breathtaking views. Breakfast buffet was 75 feet long and delicious served in an elegant ballroom.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Frame Hotel Florence
Florence

The building was formerly an apartment hotel where Vincenzo Perugia (the Louvre employee who stole the Mona Lisa in 1911) hid the painting under his bed until 1917. The Mona Lisa was a repeated presence throughout the hotel. Great job converting this structure to a comfy modern hotel. Great location in the antique section of Florence, a stone's throw from the Duomo.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the old section of Florence, a short walk to most of the high points.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort
Venice
Authenticity & Character
As I recall, this place was over 400 years old.
Location
Convenient to the arrival area. 20 minute walk, or less, to just about everything
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Luxury Tour: Explore Rome’s Wonders in a Day
Private Luxury Tour: Explore Rome’s Wonders in a Day
Rome

full day, whirlwind tour but a must if you only have the one day like we had. Crowds were unexpected for this time of year (April). Lines everywhere but this is Rome so you have to deal with it or stay home.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Roman-Style Pizza Making Masterclas with Tiramisù
Roman-Style Pizza Making Masterclas with Tiramisù
Rome

Making your own pizza and tiramisu with the guidance of a trained chef. Then, to dine on the results of your labors. What's not to love. Appetizers, wine, pizza and tiramisu.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Galleria Spada Timed Entry (self-guided), Including Borromini’s Perspective
Galleria Spada Timed Entry (self-guided), Including Borromini’s Perspective
Rome

This is an "off the beaten path" site which is not on any standard list but is fascinating none the less. The Boromini perspective is amazing and a shock to the viewer. You have to see it to appreciate it

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
No real staff or guide. Pretty much self guided.
Transport
They were always on time!
Afternoon Visit to Herculaneum Archaeological Site
Afternoon Visit to Herculaneum Archaeological Site
Naples

A much smaller version of Pompei but much more easy to negotiate and not as overwhelming. Veronica was a great guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch and Wine Tasting
Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch and Wine Tasting
Italy

Start to finish, this was great. It was good to be out in the country wandering between vineyards and olive groves. Our guide was informative and amusing with a great sense of humor. Roberto and his dog, Dora were the stars. 3-4 lbs of black truffles in and hour and a half. Kids loved it. The Luncheon at La Cantina dei Tartufi was the best food we had on the trip and that's saying a lot as we had some fabulous meals. The owner/host, Paolo and his wife, were perfect hosts.

Quality of Experience
The outdoors, exquisite countryside, a fun activity and a fabulous luncheon
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Fun and educational at the same time
Transport
Evening Gondola Ride with Guided Tour
Evening Gondola Ride with Guided Tour
Venice

Our guide, Giada, was great, although while tooling down the Grand Canal with motor craft around, hearing her was a challenge.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Murano and Burano Tour: Discover the Magic of Venice's Islands
Private Murano and Burano Tour: Discover the Magic of Venice's Islands
Venice

Great to see a very old family business thriving. Beautiful factory and showrooms. Excellent explanations. Fascinating demonstration. Burano was an unexpected gem. Wish we had more time to explore the beautiful shops.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vaporetto ride was reasonably comfortable. Someone prone to seasickness might want to prepare.
Learn How To Decorate Venetian Masks - Families And Small Groups
Learn How To Decorate Venetian Masks - Families And Small Groups
Venice

Lots of fun. Helpful instruction. Many choices and the freedom to be creative. The introduction into the history of the Venetian mask was new to all of us and very interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Apr 30, 2026
Buongiorno Stephen, Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed and thoughtful review. I truly appreciate it. It means a lot to hear that the itinerary worked so well for your family and that you enjoyed the balance of experiences across Venice, Florence, Naples, and Rome. I am especially happy to know that the activities, guides, and special moments such as the truffle hunt and cooking class stood out and created lasting memories for everyone. Andrea (your guide in... Read more

Buongiorno Stephen,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed and thoughtful review. I truly appreciate it.

It means a lot to hear that the itinerary worked so well for your family and that you enjoyed the balance of experiences across Venice, Florence, Naples, and Rome. I am especially happy to know that the activities, guides, and special moments such as the truffle hunt and cooking class stood out and created lasting memories for everyone. Andrea (your guide in Tuscany) will be very happy to hear your feedback about the experience.

Your feedback on the accommodations and logistics is also very valuable and helps us continue refining the experience for future travelers.

It was a real pleasure working with you and your family, and I am genuinely glad you were able to enjoy Italy in such a meaningful way together.

Thank you again for your trust and kind words, and I look forward to helping you and your family on your next Italian adventure. 🙂

Arrivederci,
Fabio

A Fabulous Family Trip to Rome
Italy | Mar 25 - Mar 29, 2026

S
Sara C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 03, 2026

Our trip to Rome was wonderful and the itinerary Fabio put together for our family was so much fun. It was great to have the same private guide for our Coliseum and Vatican tours (Mirta was fantastic and so good with the kids!!) and for our car transfers. The Fiat tour with Daria was fantastic and our cooking class was the star of the trip. Thank you for a seamless travel experience!

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Apr 04, 2026
Ciao Sara,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review — I truly appreciate it.
I am delighted to hear that you and your family had such a great time in Rome and that everything came together smoothly. It is especially nice to know that Mirta made such a positive impression and connected so well with the kids — I will be sure to share your kind words with both her and Daria.
I am also very happy that the cooking class was a highlight of the trip — that is exactly the kind of experience I...
Read more

Ciao Sara,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review — I truly appreciate it.
I am delighted to hear that you and your family had such a great time in Rome and that everything came together smoothly. It is especially nice to know that Mirta made such a positive impression and connected so well with the kids — I will be sure to share your kind words with both her and Daria.
I am also very happy that the cooking class was a highlight of the trip — that is exactly the kind of experience I always hope to create.
Thank you again for trusting me with your trip. It would be a pleasure to assist you and your family again whenever you decide to return to Italy. 🙂
Greetings from beautiful Italy,
Fabio