This is the second time we have used this tour company. Max put together the entire 10 day itinerary and we requested Massimo as our driver since he was so great during our first trip 6 years ago.
Everything was first class all the way...from our greeting in Venice to our drop off in Rome. Upon arrival in Venice our local driver took us to the dock, where our water taxi took us direct to our hotel dock in the city. The hotel was only a 10 minute walk to St. Marks Square, with many shops and restaurants along the way. Our local guide was very informative, and our gondola ride was great (all arranged in advance). Our water taxi upon departure was right on time, and Massimo was waiting for us at the pick-up point and greeted us as long-time friends! From there we stayed in Bologna, Siena and finished in Rome, with many interesting stops along the way in places such as Monteriggioni, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Pienza, Arrezzo and Cortana. We had guides in Bologna, Siena, Arezzo and Rome - all very informative, pleasant and spoke perfect English. Our wine tasting at Poggio Rubino in Montalcino was amazing - Brunello was some of best wine we have ever had. We look forward to it's arrival at our front door! Also did a cooking class in Bologna - made our own pasta, sauce, fillings..it was a great experience. Our chef Manuel at the Culinary Institute had a great sense of humor and patience with us and made the experience memorable.
Spending our time with Massimo has us considering our next trip - it was truly like meeting up with an old friend. We discussed a myriad of topics, he updated us on his wife and children, not to mention his being an encyclopedia of knowledge on all things Italian!! Further, the Mercedes Van, with built in wi-fi, was spacious and comfortable. This was a special trip as our adult son was with us and the trip was a celebration of his accomplishments as well as our general desire to build upon our first visit. I cannot speak highly enough of the personal care and commitment of Max and Massimo to ensure that everything goes perfectly for their clients. We look forward to working with them soon on another memorable experience.