See Italy Like a Local and the A-List with Access Italy

November 4, 2019 by Allison Reiber DiLiegro

There’s no shortage of tour operators in Italy, but only one can call itself the top choice for Oprah, the Obamas and the Hollywood set. Beloved by the A-list for their unique approach, Access Italy takes travelers through the best of both worlds: They arrange exclusive experiences like after-hours tours of the Sistine Chapel, Gladiator School for children at the Colosseum, a private visit to the Doge Palace and – yes, this is an option – a meeting with the Pope. Then, they bring travelers to experience Italy the way the Italians live with their hand-selected engaging guides who are storytellers.

Access Italy was founded by Angelo Amorico, who has spent decades building relationships with artisans, fashion designers, winemakers, restaurant owners and nobles throughout Italy. His sons, Simone and Marco, recently joined the family business and have expanded to even more impressive offerings while maintaining their close family relationships with their partners across the regions of Italy with their guests.

For travelers on a first-time trip or those who fell in love with Italy long ago, Access Italy delivers one-of-a-kind tailor-made trips from start to finish. Rome, Florence and Tuscany, Venice, Lake Como, Piedmont and so more. Here are a few of the tours Access Italy has in their repertoire.

For Art-Lovers: Inside Art Restoration in Florence

Wondering how Italy’s centuries-old art stays in such mint condition? You can ask the experts who make it happen. Visit a historical art restoration lab where you can watch the conservators whiten a marble bust or clean smoke from a Renaissance painting.

For Foodies: Truffle-Hunting and Wine-Swilling in Piedmont

Piedmont is among the most famous truffle-growing regions in the world. On this excursion, you can set out to find them yourself. Join your guide and truffle hunting dog on a hunt for the culinary delicacy. Once you’ve struck gold, you’ll learn how to clean, pack and cook truffles. A chef will prepare a few truffle dishes to try. Finish the day with a private wine tasting at a nearby winery.

For First-Timers: Behind a Secret Door at the Vatican

If you’ve never seen the Vatican before (and even if you have) this exclusive experience promises to impress. Your guide will escort you through the public galleries to the Sistine Chapel. After taking in Michelangelo’s masterpiece, you’ll walk through a secret door to a part of the Vatican only insiders can access and meet artisans who restore the mosaics throughout the Vatican. Take the Cardinals’ route to St. Peter’s Basilica, skipping the lines to get inside.

For the Honeymooners: Explore the Amalfi Coast by Yacht

Experience the Amalfi Coast as it was meant to be experienced: from your private boat. Or, do one better and see it by yacht. Set out with your captain to sail past some of the most beautiful spots along the Amalfi Coast. You’ll be taken to a secret beach where you can snorkel in the turquoise waters, or soak up the sun instead.

For the Fashion Lovers: Cashmere in Umbria

Few fabrics are more coveted than Italian cashmere. Visit an artisan’s workshop to see how the good stuff is made. You’ll learn how the experts use the wool to create the soft and chic material we all know and love.

For Families: A Scavenger Hunt Through Siena’s Streets

Travelers with kids in tow are in good hands with Access Italy. Your guide will arrange a totally bespoke scavenger hunt through the streets, squares and sights of Siena. Along the way, the whole family will learn the city’s fascinating history and age-old traditions. At the end of the hunt, kids will find a special treasure waiting for them.

Contact Hidden Doorways for more.

Contact

Access Italy

Corso Trieste, 27

00198 Rome

Italy

For Reservations: (+1) 888 499 5513

While Traveling: (+39) 334 642 1842