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active 6 hours 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
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Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Fabio

Fabio was fantastic.
Italy | Sep 23 - Oct 3, 2025

S
Steve F.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Oct 06, 2025

Fabio was fantastic.

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 09, 2025

Hello Steve,

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a pleasure assisting you and your group. I look forward to helping you again on your future Italian adventures. Wishing you all the best!

Arrivederci,
Fabio

Fabio planned out a fantastic trip for us (6 ...
Italy | Sep 23 - Oct 3, 2025

S
Scott M.
Canada | Reviewed on Oct 04, 2025
Fabio planned out a fantastic trip for us (6 people) and we all saw some wonderful sights and had an excellent experience.
Highlights were the boat tour of the Cinque Terre, wine tours and our stay in Tuscany. All of the drivers were very prompt and courteous and safely and efficiently took care of us.
Fabio was extremely responsive and helpful and should we return to Italy we would not hesitate to work with him again.
Read more

Fabio planned out a fantastic trip for us (6 people) and we all saw some wonderful sights and had an excellent experience.
Highlights were the boat tour of the Cinque Terre, wine tours and our stay in Tuscany. All of the drivers were very prompt and courteous and safely and efficiently took care of us.
Fabio was extremely responsive and helpful and should we return to Italy we would not hesitate to work with him again.

Hotel Reviews
Opera Relais De Charme - Aparthotel
Verona

Very comfortable and excellent location.

Authenticity & Character
Comfortable and exceptionally clean
Location
Staff
Helpful and courteous
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi
Sestri Levante

Hotel was very grand in its day but certainly very dated now. Breakfast was very extensive and tasty. The grounds were very nice and the pool was also nice. We were not informed that the beach was shut down the weekend before we arrived and as such no chairs or umbrellas available. The bed was very firm and not particularly comfortable, no wine glasses or corkscrew available.

Authenticity & Character
Obviously very grand at one time but showing the effects of time.
Location
Centrally located across from the beach.
Staff
Generally nice, bartender was snobbish and unpleasant
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dusty in the room, uncomfortable bed.
Salvadonica - Borgo del Chianti
San Casciano in Val di pesa

Beautiful small villa in the Tuscan hills. So tranquil and enjoyable. Breakfast was excellent and the dinners we had were fabulous.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The location is beautiful but it is a bit remote, there are no stores or restaurants that you can walk to. Be sure to have a car, we had to rent one when we got there.
Staff
Very efficient and friendly, particularly our waiter Vincenzo.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
A Taste of Valpolicella: Wine, Scenery, and Local Flavors
A Taste of Valpolicella: Wine, Scenery, and Local Flavors
Verona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day Trip from Verona: Riva del Garda, Monte Baldo, and Southern Lake Garda
Day Trip from Verona: Riva del Garda, Monte Baldo, and Southern Lake Garda
Verona

Great experience and views but very long lineup for the cable car meant most of our visit to Mt. Baldo was in a lineup both getting up and getting down

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Cinque Terre Boat Tour | From Sestri Levante
Full-Day Cinque Terre Boat Tour | From Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante

Best way to see Cinque Terra and Matteo was fantastic

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano  with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena & San Gimignano with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Tuscany

Sienna and San G are wonderful, wine tasting mediocre at best.

Quality of Experience
The wine tasting was a mediocre lunch and wine but a 2 minute description of the wines before a small pour was very underwhelming
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 04, 2025
Ciao Scott, Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to write a review on your recent trip! I am delighted to hear that you and your group had such a fantastic time in Italy. It makes me very happy to know the boat tour in Cinque Terre, the wine experiences, and your stay in Tuscany were such memorable highlights. I am also glad to hear that our drivers contributed to making your journey smooth and enjoyable. It was a real pleasure planning this trip for you, and I... Read more

Ciao Scott,

Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to write a review on your recent trip! I am delighted to hear that you and your group had such a fantastic time in Italy. It makes me very happy to know the boat tour in Cinque Terre, the wine experiences, and your stay in Tuscany were such memorable highlights.

I am also glad to hear that our drivers contributed to making your journey smooth and enjoyable. It was a real pleasure planning this trip for you, and I truly appreciate your trust and kind feedback.

I would love the opportunity to welcome you back to Italy again in the future and create another wonderful experience for you!

Wishing you all the best, and arrivederci a presto! 🙂🙂

Fabio

All in all we had a trip of a lifetime. We h...
Italy | Sep 14 - Sep 27, 2025

John
John K.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 29, 2025
All in all we had a trip of a lifetime. We had so many guides, all of which were phenomenal!! Fabio put together a memorable trip for us, responsive, caring and enthusiastic. Thank you and would highly recommend going with Fabio!!! Read more

All in all we had a trip of a lifetime. We had so many guides, all of which were phenomenal!! Fabio put together a memorable trip for us, responsive, caring and enthusiastic. Thank you and would highly recommend going with Fabio!!!

Hotel Reviews
Cà Bonfadini Historic Experience
Venice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Golden Tower Hotel & Spa
Florence
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
U-Visionary Roma Hotel
Rome

modern and dark

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Ambasciatori
Sorrento

phenomenal location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Venice Food Tour
Venice Food Tour
Venice
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
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
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
Enea is a rockstar
Transport
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome
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
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Laura is brilliant
Transport
Discover the Art and Flavors of the Amalfi Coast: A Full-Day Immersive Experience
Discover the Art and Flavors of the Amalfi Coast: A Full-Day Immersive Experience
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Walter was with us for several days. Very kind and patient!!
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
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Free afternoon in Rome
Free afternoon in Rome
Rome
Quality of Experience
get used to people
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Visit Amalfi & Positano | Private Tour
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Visit Amalfi & Positano | Private Tour
Sorrento
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Sep 30, 2025

Buongiorno John,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share a review of your recent trip to Italy with Tiki! I am delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and that the guides helped make it even more special. It was a real pleasure planning your journey, and your kind words truly mean a lot. Thank you for your trust and for recommending me — I could not ask for better feedback.

Wishing you and Tiki all the very best, and I look forward to helping you plan your next Italian getaway! 🙂

Arrivederci,
Fabio

Best Family Trip Ever!
Italy | Aug 21 - Aug 31, 2025

Samantha
Samantha S.
East Northport, NY | Reviewed on Sep 20, 2025
Fabio created the most incredible trip for our family. From the very beginning he was amazing to work with, taking my kids, ages 10 and 8, into careful consideration and brainstorming unique activities with me. I can confidently say this is the best family trip we’ve ever been on, from a private boat ride on the Amalfi Cost to truffle hunting in Tuscany, every experience was exceptional! Fabio was always accessible whenever we had questions and even surprised us with a family photo shoot on... Read more

Fabio created the most incredible trip for our family. From the very beginning he was amazing to work with, taking my kids, ages 10 and 8, into careful consideration and brainstorming unique activities with me. I can confidently say this is the best family trip we’ve ever been on, from a private boat ride on the Amalfi Cost to truffle hunting in Tuscany, every experience was exceptional! Fabio was always accessible whenever we had questions and even surprised us with a family photo shoot on our last day in Rome! This is surely a trip to remember! I highly recommend working with Fabio-you won’t be disappointed!

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Sep 22, 2025
Buongiorno Samantha,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share this wonderful review! It was a real pleasure to plan your family’s trip, and I am thrilled to hear that the mix of activities — from the boat ride on the Amalfi Coast to truffle hunting in Tuscany — created such special memories.
Your feedback truly means a lot, and I am delighted that the surprise photo shoot in Rome was a highlight to end the journey on a high note. I look forward to welcoming you... Read more

Buongiorno Samantha,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share this wonderful review! It was a real pleasure to plan your family’s trip, and I am thrilled to hear that the mix of activities — from the boat ride on the Amalfi Coast to truffle hunting in Tuscany — created such special memories.

Your feedback truly means a lot, and I am delighted that the surprise photo shoot in Rome was a highlight to end the journey on a high note.

I look forward to welcoming you and your family back to Italy in the future for even more adventures together!

Wishing you all the best! 😀

Arrivederci,
Fabio

Not Sure of our guides na
Italy | Feb 20 - Mar 4, 2025

K
Kathie R.
Florissant, MO | Reviewed on Mar 13, 2025
Not Sure of our guides names. We had a food tour guide in Rome was great very good. He gave us lots of information about the area and the food. Our guide in Florence was excellent. We spent 2 days in Tuscany with him. Our food tour in Venice guide made the tour all about us. We asked a few questions and she gave us the food that answers in food. ` Read more

Not Sure of our guides names. We had a food tour guide in Rome was great very good. He gave us lots of information about the area and the food. Our guide in Florence was excellent. We spent 2 days in Tuscany with him. Our food tour in Venice guide made the tour all about us. We asked a few questions and she gave us the food that answers in food. `

Hotel Reviews
Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort
Venice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cellini
Rome

The location to the subway was great. Felt the building was a little run down.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very informative
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palazzo Marziale Boutique Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento

Great room, great staff, great breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
We loved the location could see out to the water
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was very comfortable
Hotel Alba Palace Florence
Florence

Would not recommend this hotel to anyone. The room was extremely small with an even smaller bathroom. Our room faced the street and we were woken up every night to shouting in the street. The only friendly staff member was the girl in the breakfast room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It was close to the train that was great. The noise on the street was very loud
Staff
Could be friendlier
Cleanliness & Comfort
Larger rooms
Activity Reviews
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
\
Venice Food Tour
Venice Food Tour
Venice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was fantastic!
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

We had our same driver from 2 days before. His knowledge of the area and history was great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Best of Florence and David by Michelangelo | Small Group
Florence

We enjoyed our guide and tour. A couple of people on the tour kept walking off. Made it hard on our guide and everyone else on the tour.

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

We loved our driver. He had so much knowledge of the area.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Secrets of Neapolitan Pizza with Olive Oil & Mozzarella Tasting
The Secrets of Neapolitan Pizza with Olive Oil & Mozzarella Tasting
Sorrento

We had so much fun!

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

We truly enjoyed our day.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Rome

We really liked our guide. He gave us lots of information.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self Guided Visit to the Colosseum & Roman Forum | Skip-the-Line Tickets
Self Guided Visit to the Colosseum & Roman Forum | Skip-the-Line Tickets
Rome

We had a little trouble finding where to meet for tour

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Mar 14, 2025

Hello Kathy,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review of your recent trip! I am thrilled that you enjoyed your guides, especially during the food tours and your time in Tuscany. It is great to hear that their knowledge enriched your experience.

I truly appreciate your hotel reviews and regret that Hotel Alba Palace did not meet expectations. Your feedback on room size, noise, and service is valuable, and I will share it with the hotel.

It was a pleasure working with you, and I look forward to helping you plan your next Italian adventure. Wishing you all the best!

Fabio

My trip to Italy was beyond words. I was in a...
Italy | Sep 6 - Sep 19, 2024

B
Barbara D.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 27, 2024
My trip to Italy was beyond words. I was in awe of the magnificent churches, statues and works of art ( the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum etc.) that were created many centuries ago and are still magnificent today.
The scenery in Florence, Tuscany and Rome was breathtaking. (Rolling hills, olive trees, vineyards , towers, villas and castles) The food and wine were out of this world.
My sister, daughter and I would not have gotten around without the wonderful and professional drivers...
Read more

My trip to Italy was beyond words. I was in awe of the magnificent churches, statues and works of art ( the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum etc.) that were created many centuries ago and are still magnificent today.
The scenery in Florence, Tuscany and Rome was breathtaking. (Rolling hills, olive trees, vineyards , towers, villas and castles) The food and wine were out of this world.
My sister, daughter and I would not have gotten around without the wonderful and professional drivers - Yuri and Stefano and also the knowledgeable tour guides - Sabrina, Magdalena and Mauricio. They all went above and beyond. So I thank you!
A special thank you to Fabio for helping my daughter plan this amazing trip. I hope I have a chance to visit Italy again!

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 28, 2024

Buongiorno Barbara,
Thank you very much for sharing your experience! I am thrilled to hear that Italy’s art, history, and beautiful landscapes left such an impression on you. I will pass your kind words on to Yuri, Stefano, Sabrina, Magdalena, and Mauricio—they will be delighted they made a difference on your journey.
It was a pleasure helping your family plan this trip, and I hope we can welcome you back to Italy someday for even more unforgettable memories! 🙂
Warm regards,
Fabio

Italy in October - couldn't be better!
Italy | Sep 30 - Oct 9, 2024

Martin
Martin L.
Drexel Heights, AZ | Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024
All the arrangements were great. We enjoyed all aspects of this trip and were pleased with the accommodations. The guides were excellent, especially Francesco who took us through Pompeii and gave us loads of information about the what we were seeing. Read more

All the arrangements were great. We enjoyed all aspects of this trip and were pleased with the accommodations. The guides were excellent, especially Francesco who took us through Pompeii and gave us loads of information about the what we were seeing.

Hotel Reviews
Otivm Hotel
Rome

Very comfortable room. Excellent location close to the many attractions including the Coliseum and the Vitoria Emanuel monument.

Authenticity & Character
The rooftop bar is wonderful.
Location
Staff
Always willing to give us advice and directions.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Royal Prisco Hotel
Positano

Fabulous view down to the sea. Walking distance to just about everything. Very helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Continental
Sorrento

Although our room did not have a great view, it was lovely and the staff was very helpful. The location was good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Within walking distance of a great pedestrian area/shopping district.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Rome Crypts and Catacombs Tour
Rome Crypts and Catacombs Tour
Rome

We had visited some crypts in Portugal and this was very similar and interesting. The tour of the crypt seemed a bit rushed, but the catacombs tour was outstanding.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

Simona, our guide really enhanced this visit. She had a wealth of knowledge to share with us making the visit very enjoyable. We had been to the Colosseum many years before without a guide and this was so much better.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide as excellent!
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Stop in Amalfi and Ravello | Private Tour
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Stop in Amalfi and Ravello | Private Tour
Sorrento

The road is very crooked and the traffic is intense, but it was worth it to see Amalfi and Ravello. Our driver was very good and there were lots of great sights to see.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Amalfi Coast & Capri Island Boat Excursion | Stop in Capri Island
Full-Day Amalfi Coast & Capri Island Boat Excursion | Stop in Capri Island
Sorrento

Marco, our boat captain was wonderful, friendly and enjoyable to be with. He was an excellent captain and got us into the Blue Grotto with minimal hassles in spite of the large number of people waiting to enter.

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

Pompeii was so amazing. Mt Vesuvius was fun to walk to the summit and to see the crater and the winery tour was great. The wine was good as was the food.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Nov 02, 2024

Buongiorno Martin, Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed every aspect of your trip, especially the accommodations and the l guides. Francesco will be thrilled to know he made such an impact during your Pompeii tour. It was a pleasure helping you plan your journey, and I hope to assist you with future travels! Wishing you all the best!
Arrivederci,
Fabio

Special Trip to Italy
Italy | Sep 21 - Oct 6, 2024

Donna
Donna S.
Jacksonville, FL | Reviewed on Oct 11, 2024
We have never worked with someone to plan a trip in Europe before. This was a special trip as we were celebrating my 70th birthday, so when I saw KimKim and read their reviews, I contacted them. I first worked with someone else, then Fabio. Some excellent suggestions were made and they always promptly answered any questions that I had. They helped me to make choices and made changes when I read something new and I changed my mind. We liked how they took care of the accommodations (with my... Read more

We have never worked with someone to plan a trip in Europe before. This was a special trip as we were celebrating my 70th birthday, so when I saw KimKim and read their reviews, I contacted them. I first worked with someone else, then Fabio. Some excellent suggestions were made and they always promptly answered any questions that I had. They helped me to make choices and made changes when I read something new and I changed my mind. We liked how they took care of the accommodations (with my approval of the hotels), rental car, train ticket, and all the drivers. They never pushed anything...just worked hand and hand with me to come up with an itinerary. Always gracious, and I felt "safe" knowing that Fabio was there to help when/if needed. We had no serious problems, and the hotels were wonderful (especially the one in Tuscany). The cooking class in Sorrento was lovely and so was the food and wine tour in Florence. Unfortunately, at my own mistake....we missed the food tour in Trastevere when I got the night wrong and failed to double check the itinerary.
All the drivers were great, especially the one from Sorrento to Rome. And, Fabio made sure to let our Amalfi Coast driver know that I might be a little nervous with all that I had heard about the drive along the Amalfi Coast. However, I actually had zero problems with that drive, even with the back and forth tight traffic. Believe me, that says a lot about our driver who did an excellent job.
All and all, we had a wonderful time in Italy. It is my favorite country to visit and we hope to go back again to explore other areas of Italy. Appreciated the care of consideration that Fabio showed throughout our trip.

Hotel Reviews
Grand Hotel De La Ville
Sorrento

The hotel was immaculately clean and bright. My favorite area was the outdoor seating area for breakfast. Only went to the rooftop bar once to take in the view, but it was nice. The service thought out the hotel was exceptional and we had a nice view of the sea. Well appointed rooms and an easy walk to places of interest in Sorrento.

Authenticity & Character
Very pretty and nice. But, not sure what the decorating theme was....didn't seem coastal Italian. Kept meaning to ask, but forgot.
Location
Staff
Could not have been friendlier or more helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Salvadonica - Borgo del Chianti
San Casciano in Val di pesa

Oh my goodness....loved, loved, loved this place. It was so charming and the grounds were lovely and peaceful. We had a Junior Suite, which meant small bedroom with a separate sitting room. Everything was well appointed, clean and just lovely. We had a spectacular view from all three of our windows on the second floor.. Breakfast and late lunch food was excellent and the service was unbelievable. We never had dinner there. Would definitely go back to this location again, and have already recommended it to friends.

Authenticity & Character
Simply perfect with Tuscany charm and a touch of modern.
Location
It was easily accessible from Florence, and to the towns in the countryside.
Staff
Particularly liked how friendly the staff was, and the warm welcomes to morning breakfast.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean, and functional. However, I would suggest a full length mirror on one wall.
Activity Reviews
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Trastevere Local Food Tour
Rome

Sad to say that we missed this because I got my nights mixed up. My mistake! Sure that it would have need wonderful as it was something that we were looking forward to.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pizza & Pasta Masterclass in Sorrento
Pizza & Pasta Masterclass in Sorrento
Sorrento

Delightful. The chef instructor was wonderful, the group was fun, and the view from the cooking school was beautiful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Visit Amalfi & Positano | Private Tour
Amalfi Coast Road Trip - Visit Amalfi & Positano | Private Tour
Sorrento

Very happy that we saw a bit of the Amalfi Coast. Our favorite town was Ravello as it was beautiful and not as crowded. We missed seeing the town of Amalfi due to slow traffic and a slow lunch service in Ravello. It was a beautiful view of Ravello, but they completely forgot our order, until we finally asked. So that took away from our tour time.

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

Delightful guide as she was knowledgable and so sweet. Bless her heart...too much wine for me so she worried a bit about me on the uneven stone walkways.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 11, 2024
Buongiorno Donna! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review! I’m so glad to hear that your Birthday Trip to Italy was a memorable one and that you enjoyed everything from the accommodations to the experiences.
I really appreciate the details and feedback on each activity, especially knowing that you felt supported throughout the whole process. It was our pleasure to help create an itinerary that fit your needs, and I’m glad the drivers, particularly on the Amalfi...
Read more

Buongiorno Donna! Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed review! I’m so glad to hear that your Birthday Trip to Italy was a memorable one and that you enjoyed everything from the accommodations to the experiences.
I really appreciate the details and feedback on each activity, especially knowing that you felt supported throughout the whole process. It was our pleasure to help create an itinerary that fit your needs, and I’m glad the drivers, particularly on the Amalfi Coast, made your journey smooth and enjoyable. I look forward to working with you and Steve again when you’re ready to explore more of beautiful Italy! 🙂 🙂
Warm Regards,
Fabio

Our trip to Italy was SOngreat!
Italy | Sep 15 - Oct 6, 2024

R
Roger M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 08, 2024

Our trip to Italy was great! Fabio was fabulous! He answered all of our questions before we left and was fast to respond. Once we were in Italy, it was easy to contact him. He had great suggestions and recommendations of places to stay and things to do and see. I rate this trip five stars with Fabio and Kim Kim. Excellent service excellent trip. Excellent ITALY! !

Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 09, 2024

Buongiorno Lisa,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure to help you plan your trip to Italy. I’m delighted to hear that my recommendations and support made your experience enjoyable and stress-free. Italy has so much to offer, and it’s wonderful to know that Cheryl and Roger had an excellent time exploring it. I look forward to assisting you with your next Italian adventure.

Wishing you all the very best! 🙂

Grazie,
Fabio

An amazing 2 week trip in Italy
Italy | Sep 6 - Sep 19, 2024

V
Vanessa D.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 07, 2024
I could not have planned this trip without Fabio's help. He was so patient and answered every question I had. He tailored our itinerary perfectly and helped me secure the perfect the most amazing hotels and activities for our group. Fabio went above and beyond even while we were on our trip. The day before we left, Fabio let us know that there was a strike happening and that our trains were cancelled but not to worry he booked us a taxi instead and at no additional cost to us. Not having to... Read more

I could not have planned this trip without Fabio's help. He was so patient and answered every question I had. He tailored our itinerary perfectly and helped me secure the perfect the most amazing hotels and activities for our group. Fabio went above and beyond even while we were on our trip. The day before we left, Fabio let us know that there was a strike happening and that our trains were cancelled but not to worry he booked us a taxi instead and at no additional cost to us. Not having to deal with those unforeseen travel changes was a blessing. Fabio also helped me plan 2 separate events outside of my itinerary with a large group of my friends and graciously dealt with many last minute changes and updates.

Sabrina was our tour guide for our colosseum tour and she was absolutely amazing. We asked her so many questions about ancient Rome and the colosseum that we lost track of time and she so nicely stayed for an extra half hour. The tour of the colosseum was one of the most memorable parts of our trip.

Our drivers that took us to Florence and all around Tuscany, Stefano and Jury were wonderful. They were both very engaging and lovely to talk to and encouraged me to practice my Italian with them which I really appreciated. Stefano even walked us around each of the little towns he drove us to in Tuscany and shared some history and places of interest about each.

Another highlight was the truffle hunt. Our guide and his dog, Dora were wonderful company as we learned all out hunting for truffles. Dora found us many truffles.

Hotel Reviews
Doria Palace Boutique Hotel
Rome

This hotel is in a great location, very walkable to all the sites and right next to a Santa Maria maggiore Basilica. I was in Rome for a wedding and I asked to be closed to the hotel of the wedding party so that I could use the shuttle services. The hotel itself is very tiny /narrow. The elevator was a little scary as it only fits one person and barely any luggage. The rooms were on the smaller side but clean and comfortable. The rooftop bar served breakfast every day and drinks at night. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mormoraia
San Gimignano

I highly recommend this hotel and to anyone staying in Tuscany or San Gimignano, the views around the property and from our hotel room were stunning. The rooms are very modern and chic. I shared a room with my mother and my aunt but I would say the rooms and the overall experience would be better suited for couples traveling. Most of the guests were younger, perhaps on their honeymoon or older couples. Breakfast was included and it was amazing every day. At night we ate at the restaurant on the property and that was also very delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Otivm Hotel
Rome

I was delightfully surprised by this hotel. It's centrally located next all the main sites in the city center but it's located on a quieter side street. The rooms were very spacious and comfortable and the breakfast on the roof overlooking the city was amazing. The Front desk, and staff were very kind and welcoming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Walkable to all the most important sites in the city center but down a quieter side street
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Flavors of Rome | Food Tour with a Local Foodie
Rome

Amazing! It was great to explore a new neighborhood and get out of the city center. Maurizio took us a wonderful assortment of shops all showcasing Rome's local cuisine. He also shared some Roman history and walked us through a basilica as a part of the tour.

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

Unfortunately the Vatican was incredibly packed when we visited and we had to wait a while to actually go in to the sistine chapel, which of course was not the fault of the tour guide. However, at times it seemed like she was exasperated by the crowds, she was having a hard time engaging our large group. Her accent also made it harder to understand her over the audio speaker and all the noise. She did not accomopany us into St. Peter's but it would have been nice to have someone guide us through the basilica. Unfortunately much of the site is under construction and scaffolding, preparing for next years jubliee.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore The Val D’Orcia with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Explore The Val D’Orcia with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Italy

I wound up cancelling one of these tours for the day as we were worried about doing too many wine tasting. The one winery we did go to was beautiful and just recently renovated. We were given our own private room for the tasting and they served us lunch which was the best lasagna of my life. The space is huge and we were unfortunately the only ones there.

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

This was a very unique and wonderful experience. We got a private transfer and tour with a truffle hunter and his wonderful dog, Dora. We were pleasantly surprised that we were able to find so many truffles and it was very to get to dig up our own. Poggia wine tasting and lunch was delicious and they were kind enough to cook up our truffles we found into a dish.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

Sabrina was fantastic. She is so knowledgable and engaging, we loved our tour with her. We asked her so many questions that we actually missed going to 2 other scheduled sites during our tour because we were so fascinated by the colosseum. She graciously stayed for another half hour and quickly walked us through the palatine hill. I highly recommend Sabrina to anyone looking for a private tour of the Colosseum.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Fabio Ilardi
Fabio
Fabio Ilardi
Local specialist in Como, Italy | Replied on Oct 07, 2024
Ciao Vanessa, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m so glad to hear that your trip was such a success and that I could be part of making it special for you. It was truly my pleasure to help plan every detail and to ensure everything went smoothly, especially when the unexpected strike disrupted your train plans. Sabrina, Stefano, and Jury will be so pleased to hear your kind words. I’ll be sure to pass along your praise to them. It’s also wonderful to hear that your truffle... Read more

Ciao Vanessa,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m so glad to hear that your trip was such a success and that I could be part of making it special for you. It was truly my pleasure to help plan every detail and to ensure everything went smoothly, especially when the unexpected strike disrupted your train plans. Sabrina, Stefano, and Jury will be so pleased to hear your kind words. I’ll be sure to pass along your praise to them.

It’s also wonderful to hear that your truffle hunt with Dora was a highlight! Truffle hunting is such a unique experience, and I’m glad you had fun and were successful with Dora’s help.

Thank you again for your kind words. It was a pleasure working with you, and I hope we can help you plan another unforgettable trip in the future! 🙂

Wishing you all the best!

Fabio