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Georges de La Tour

French Artist

Summary of Georges de La Tour

One of the greatest exponents of 17 th century Baroque painting, La Tour's mastery of chiaroscuro was such that he is often named as Caravaggio's natural successor. But La Tour's paintings, although relatively small in number, stand on their own terms for an economy of styling that charge his brooding candlelit scenes with a sense of enigmatic tranquility. La Tour's oeuvre shows a steady progression towards a uniquely minimalist style that would touch upon elements of symmetrical abstraction. Indeed, several historians have championed la Tour as the true progenitor of the Cubist movement. Although he was much admired in his own day, La Tour joins the exalted company of Piero della Francesca and Vermeer as canonical artists whose names and works had fallen into obscurity (and in La Tour's case, misattributed) before being rediscovered (and re-championed) by historians in the 20 th century.

Accomplishments

• La Tour's distinguished himself from others working in the Baroque style through a series of works that feature figures lit dramatically by the soft glow of a single light source. La Tour became increasingly drawn to candlelight scenes - often featuring a young boy or girl absorbed in an everyday task, whereby the flame spreads an atmosphere of otherworldly calm across the whole canvas. As his style evolved, La Tour's works would become increasingly sparse, with his masses reduced to simple, almost geometrical, dimensions. This technique imbues his works with a somewhat modern appearance that has provided a significant addition to the catalogue of 17th century French art.
• La Tour is sometimes referred to as a realist on the grounds that his works addressed the lives and experiences of the "common folk" of his hometown of Lorraine. But La Tour was not a naturalist. For his "real-life" works he achieved a sober, but meditative, quality. Indeed, rather than fixate the picturesque style that was prevalent in Northern Europe at the time, La Tour turned to the Caravaggesque realist approach since it provided the best means of representing "the soul of man".
• La Tour's sparsely populated pictures are rendered in "anonymous" locations with the absence of setting or scenery. His subjects never pose in front of architectural backgrounds or landscapes, with borders and boundaries delineated typically through partitioning devices such as walls. He omitted subsidiary figures with incidental accessories kept to the bare minimum (even his saints and angels were without haloes and wings). This technique, which brought a sense of silent calm, contributed to the enigmatic quality that has come to distinguish his work.
• La Tour's paintings, almost exclusively genre and religious works, can be divided between daytime and night-time scenes. Whereas the latter are defined by artificial light and a near elimination of color, the former, such as The Cheat with the Ace of Diamonds (c. 1635) and The Fortune-Teller (undated, c.1630-34), are distinguished by for their sharp, clear lighting, and a precision of brushwork. La Tour's works from this phase already indicate something of his individuality in their exquisite ornamentations and rendering of textures.

The Life of Georges de La Tour

According to author Christopher Wright, La Tour, "was seen as the great master of candlelight paintings, set apart from his contemporaries, by a near magical approach, both in subject matter and technique".

Important Art by Georges de La Tour

The Payment of Taxes

An important early work by La Tour, it shows an elderly man paying a tax (or debt) to group of men. The scene carries an element of threat in that the taxpayer seems as if he is being intimidated by the group. Author Philip Conisbee says of the work, "It has been convincingly suggested that its source lies in the tradition of tax-paying scenes, a well-established theme in Netherlandish art since the sixteenth century". Yet the painting carries a certain ambiguity in that, what might be on surface level a generic peasant scene of the powerful subjugating the meek, could be a modern reinterpretation of the biblical story of the "Calling of Matthew" (the tax collector who became a disciple) if, as some historians believe, it was painted during the earliest period of his career when he was chiefly engaged in painting the saints. In either case, this work offers confirmation of La Tour's skill at creating complex group compositions. According to Conisbee, here "La Tour employs a crowded space, somewhat awkward, eccentric poses, and a self-conscious use of artificial light to create the atmosphere of a silent and unsettling drama. Every feature of the painting - gestures, expressions, enigmatic poses, the play of light and shade - works to produce a tense, concentrated mood. Even the elevated viewpoint adds to the tension we experience from this encounter. [Even though early in his career, it] is already characteristic of La Tour's approach to painting: he rarely chooses an innovative subject, but he meditates on it deeply and presents it in a highly focused or concentrated way. There is no visual distraction, no ornament for ornament's sake. Forms are reduced to essentials, as are the gestures and expressions of his actors, establishing in this case a threatening mood".

Oil on canvas - Museum of Fine Arts, Lviv, Ukraine

Old Peasant Couple Eating

This painting is one of La Tour's key early works. It amply demonstrates his flair for capturing the mood of his subjects. As author Vittorio Maria de Bonis notes, the couple "ignore each other and instead sink their melancholy gaze into the eyes of the viewer as they angrily and greedily eat spoonfuls of the bright peas inside chipped, rough terracotta bowls". The mature figures are desperately hungry and they might easily symbolize the population of Lorraine (in Northeastern France) who had grown exhausted through war and famine. The bleak mood is reinforced through the dramatic Baroque style that sets the figures, whose faces and figures are cast in shadows, against a dour, featureless, background. De Bonis calls the painting, "one of the most eloquently desolate images of hunger and poverty ever painted". This work is also interesting because, unlike the artist's later pieces, it is not obvious to the viewer what message La Tour was trying to communicate. According to author Philip Conisbee, the work, "presents something of a dilemma for the modern viewer, for there are no clues about how the artist and his public understood such a picture: should we pity their plight, look down on them, or just savor their picturesqueness?". Conisbee suggests that La Tour invests his subjects "with a certain dignity, which perhaps means we should admire them as 'salt of the earth'". It is this fascinating element of ambiguity that contributed to the painters soaring reputation amongst 20 th century historians.

Oil on canvas - Gemäldegalerie, Berlin, Germany

The Fortune-Teller

Art historian Deanna MacDonald writes, "This painting is full of enigmas relating to its painter, subject and provenance. Signed in Latin in its top right corner 'G. de La Tour Fecit Luneuilla Lothar' (made by G. de La Tour, Lunéville Lorraine), this is one of the few daylight paintings by an artist who specialised in nocturnal scenes". In this narrative work, a well-to-do young man looks questioningly at the toothless old woman on the far right of the canvas as she holds out a coin. While focused on whatever tale she is spinning, he fails to realize that the other women standing around him, in cahoots with the older woman who has distracted him, are in the act of picking his pockets. MacDonald observes, "There is no indication of setting, though all wear colourful costumes. Are they in a brothel? Are the robbers gypsies? As it has a theatrical air, could it be a scene from a play, such as the parable of the prodigal son? But la Tour does not play the scene for comedy or eroticism. Sideways glances, expressive hand gestures and a mix of shadow and crisp daylight create an atmosphere ripe with tension: what will happen next? Details are meticulously rendered; from the patterns on the colourful fabrics to the words AMOR (love) and FIDES (faith) written minutely on the young man's watch chain. Despite the moralising theme, the artist seems to imbue each character with humanity: the foppish youth seems more naïve than dissolute and there is a sense of sadness and peril about the thieves (punishments for stealing in the 17th century included cutting off an ear, branding or death). The picture seems to warn of the dangers for all in a world of deceit and greed". MacDonald also introduces an interesting historical caveat into readings of the painting. In 1984 the art historian Christopher Wright published a book in which he claimed that all of La Tour's daylight pictures were in fact forgeries. MacDonald observes, "Wright, who as a young scholar had been involved in La Tour authentications, said that he had been pressured to pronounce the work genuine by powerful figures such as Sir Anthony Blunt, the famed art expert/spy. Wright even suggested that a French restorer (who died in 1954) named Delobre who worked for Wildenstein in the USA had painted them. Many have dismissed Wright's claims, including the Met [Museum of Art] but an aura of mystery remains".

Oil on canvas - Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA

The Penitent Magdalen

The Penitent Magdalen is rich in the type of religious symbolism that would have been easily understood by audiences of La Tour's day. As the Metropolitan Museum of Art explains, "the quiet atmosphere of this painting perfectly fits the subject, Mary Magdalen, who renounced the pleasures of the flesh for a life of penance and contemplation. She is shown with a mirror, symbol of vanity; a skull, emblem of mortality; and a candle that probably references her spiritual enlightenment". Here, as in his others works in this style, La Tour uses heightened chiaroscuro - or tenebrism - to underscore the mood and/or motivation of his subject. Conisbee writes, "At its most basic level the darkened interior enabled the artist to play on the theme of light and reflected light in contrast with the surrounding obscurity. It could set a mood conducive to contemplation and meditation, both for the actors in his pictures and for the participating spectator. Light and darkness had symbolic values on several levels: most obviously in the contrast between the spiritual darkness of our mortal world, illuminated by the light of the divine". Indeed, Mary Magdalene is a fitting subject for La Tour's Baroque treatment. The candle, which was widely interpreted as a symbol of Christ's presence, features here to connote an act of meditation and Magdalen's new faith (in Jesus) that will lead her away from a life of sin. But perhaps the most striking stylistic feature of this work is the reflection of the candle in the mirror. As Conisbee explains, "The two flames really dominate the picture, not only because they are the source of light, illuminating the figure of the Magdalene, but also because the repeated image of the flame and its reflection are so compelling; we can see both sides of the candle, and the far side best because it is illuminated by the reflected light. Only the skull on Magdalene's lap suggests that she may be pondering the earthly reality of our mortality and the eternal truth of the spiritual life, while deciding to abandon the blandishments of the material world".

Saint Joseph in the Carpenter's Shop

A rarely depicted subject, La Tour has shown Jesus as a young boy in the workshop of his carpenter father. Joseph dominates the scene and is bent down over a piece of wood, which he is working with a tool. Jesus holds a candle to help his father to see, effectively bathing his whole face in light. Joseph's eyes seem to be turned upward towards his son, suggesting they are in conversation. In fact this could be read as a humble familial scene were it not for the painting's title. La Tour's nocturne painting shows how he used lighting effects to elevate drama over naturalism. As authors Claudio Falcucci and Simona Rinaldi write, "one example of the extent to which what is portrayed in his paintings can be divorced from reality is visible in the Child's hand hiding the candle [...]. It is commonly known that light transmitted across a hand with its fingers closed produces a bright red colour, which is at its brightest where the fingers touch one another, and darker where the hand is thicker. In no case do we ever observe a white contour around the fingers, especially when they slightly overlap as they do in the representation. [...] Indeed, a constant element in La Tour's canvases seems to be his moving beyond the mere description of the physical phenomenon of the light released by the candle in the name of a more highly symbolic value".

Oil on canvas - Louvre Museum, Paris, France

The Choirboy

This work is characteristic of La Tour's penetrating application of the Baroque style. To enhance the drama of his scenes, and demonstrating his sophisticated handling of chiaroscuro that expresses itself in sharp tenebrism, he allowed his figures, in this case a solitary choirboy wearing a plumb colored alb with a delicately embroidered collar, to be illuminated by the light of a single candle. What is perhaps most interesting about this work from a compositional point of view is that the candle is not visible; rather it is hidden behind the hymn book that the boy holds. Only the tip of the flame and the base of the candle in the boy's hand is peeking out from behind the book. La Tour's clever composition reinforces the dedication of the boy to the task at hand while perhaps allowing the viewer to contemplate their own faith and devotion. Art critic Laura Cumming offers this reading of the painting: "La Tour must have seen a Caravaggio somewhere, if only as a print - but nobody has ever put such emphasis on the behaviour of candlelight. The way it strokes surfaces, sends out showers of highlights, gives warmth as well as light while casting everything beyond its ambit into blackness. His figures appear spellbound by the magical flame, seized with its mystery; only the candlelight shifts. He often achieves this by hiding the light source itself. [Here a] choirboy holds a candle up to his hymns but we only see the tip of the flame above a book that's as black as night. All that is visible, in fact, in this cave of seething darkness are the fingers, the face and this mesmerising flicker, giving the queer sense of a soul in trance. And what a serene mask the boy has, radically simplified and slightly oriental like many of de La Tour's characters. His candlelight seems to sheer away irregularities like a laser, polishing skin and making diamonds of eyes".

Oil on canvas - Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, Leicester, England

The Adoration of the Shepherds

In La Tour's nativity painting, the Christ child, swaddled in white cloth, is featured bathed in light in the center of the composition. Mary sits on the left, hands clasped in prayer while Joseph, sitting directly across from her, has his hands raised in praise. Two shepherds and a peasant girl occupy the background and look down on the baby adoringly. While the nativity has been a popular theme for artists throughout history, La Tour's approach distinguishes itself from other works in this theme. According to Conisbee, "the story lent itself to a nighttime scene, and there are countless prototypes in the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries. La Tour has gathered a group of five sympathetically observed worshippers around the Christ Child, who seems to radiate more light than he can possibly simply reflect from the candle held by Joseph. This last detail is significant. [...] La Tour brings a sense of intimacy and tenderness to the scene, and we can admire his powers of observation in the swaddled child. [...] There is no sense of theatricality in La Tour's interpretation: no dramatic gestures or exaggerated expressions". In this example we can see a style of rendering figures that helped distinguish La Tour from the approach of Caravaggio (to whom he was/is routinely compared). As Falcucci and Rinaldi explain, "while Caravaggio tended to emphasize the sculptural qualities of his subjects by painting them before he painted the background, which he then darkened depending on what was needed, always being sure not to let the background and the subject come into pictorial contact with each other, La Tour made very distinct borders between the background colours, which he then painted independently so that the figures were transformed into shapes applied to the background, with no dialectical rapport between the two".

Biography of Georges de La Tour

Childhood and education.

There is little information about the early life of Georges de La Tour, and without a surviving self-portrait (assuming he had painted one), we do not even have an image of the artist. All that is known (rumors that he was arrogant and unpopular with his neighbors notwithstanding) is that he was the second of seven children, born in Vic-sur-Seille (Vic), a large market town in the independent duchy of Lorraine (now part of north-eastern France). His father, Jean de La Tour, was a baker, his mother, also from a family of bakers, was named Sybille de Crospaux. His baptismal certificate was registered in Vic on 14 March 1593.

Early Training

That La Tour must have had an early interest in art can be assumed given that in the seventeenth century one would not have been accepted into a workshop to study unless he or she had already demonstrated a nascent talent. Art historian Gail Feigenbaum suggests that "His apprenticeship likely began around 1605, perhaps in Vic with Alphonse de Rambervilliers, a writer and amateur engraver close to the bishop of Metz, and he very likely worked in Nancy with the painter, etcher, and draftsman Jacques Bellange". Authors Claudio Falcucci and Simona Rinaldi have also conjectured that La Tour "received his artistic education in the workshop of the Swiss painter Claude Dogoz, who was working in the lively Lorraine area at the time". And while little is known about his religious upbringing, Feigenbaum observes that his devotional paintings, such as The Repentant Magdalen (c. 1640), "demonstrate powerful introspection and intense spirituality [that] may reflect the strong Catholic sentiments of Lorraine, which bordered northern Protestant states".

The influence of the Italian Baroque style , especially in the dark and dramatic backgrounds of Caravaggio (La Tour was still a teenager when the archetypal artistic rebel died, or was killed), begs the question: where would the artist have seen and studied such paintings? As Feigenbaum writes, "there has been much unresolved discussion about a possible trip to Rome". La Tour had begun painting with Dogoz and it is thought that he could have travelled to Italy with Dogoz between 1614-16, where he discovered the paintings of Caravaggio. Feigenbaum acknowledges that "La Tour's low-life subjects and his bold tenebrist manner of painting seem to be heavily indebted to the work of Caravaggio [...] and his followers in Rome [such as Bartolomeo Manfredi]. But Caravaggio's influence was spreading throughout Europe in the second decade of the century so it was by no means necessary for La Tour to have made an Italian trip". Indeed, Gerrit van Honthorst and Dirck van Baburen were working in the Baroque style in Utrecht, while in Lorraine, Jacques Bellange and Jean Leclerc were both exploring the dramatic potential for tenebrist lighting effects.

Mature Period

La Tour was married to Diane Le Nerf, a woman of status and wealth, in 1617 (La Tour gave his profession as painter on the marriage certificate). Her family were silversmiths and her father served as the minister of finance to the Duke of Lorraine. Having lived at the Le Nerf's family residence in Vic, they settled in the city of Lunéville (15 miles south of Vic) following the birth of their first child (Philipp) in 1620. (The couple were parents to a total of nine or ten children, although only three would reach adulthood, including their son, Etienne, who was officially ennobled as a painter in 1670.) In Lunéville, La Tour joined the studio of Claude Baccarat and between 1621-24 the Duke bought two of La Tour's paintings. With his reputation secured, La Tour established his own workshop in Lunéville where he employed apprentices.

The La Tours lived through a time of great uncertainty. It was the period of the Thirty Year War (1618-48) and by the 1630s Lunéville was becoming increasingly unsafe. As historian Gabriel Diss states, "La Tour needed great determination and unflinching energy not to be crushed by the incursions of armed rabble, the hordes of poverty-stricken refugees, the state of famine and the plague that struck Lorraine three times, in 1631, 1633, and 1636. He shouldered the great responsibility of supplying the needs of a workshop and a family of nine children, a burden made still greater in 1631 when he was appointed guardian of his nephews Antoine and François Nardoyen. The records show that he performed his duties with fairness and clear-sightedness".

The independent duchy of Lorraine (now northeastern France) sat between France and the Germany of the Holy Roman Empire. The citizens of Lunéville (located within the duchy of Lorraine) were trapped in the war between these two mighty colonial powers and La Tour and his family lived with a constant fear for their safety. After his home was ransacked, and his workshop razed, during a sack of Lunéville by the French in 1638, La Tour moved his family 30km to Nancy. Despite his close friendship with the Duke of Lorraine, La Tour now pledged his loyalty to the French. With his family safely settled in Nancy, La Tour left for Paris in 1639 where he took up his most prestigious position as peintre du roi ("Painter in Ordinary to King Louis XIII of France"). He made such an impression in this role that he was granted permission to set up a living space in the Louvre a year later.

Later Period

Once Lorraine became secure again (now under control of the French) La Tour was able to return home with his family. According to records dated 1643 he established a successful new studio in Lunéville. He produced religious and domestic scenes, both genres of which were popular throughout Europe. According to author Philip Conisbee, "La Tour conducted his artistic affairs in a solidly professional way: there were contracts, agreements, and schedules of payment. We know that he ran a small studio [and engaged apprentices] who helped out in the day-to-day running of his business and learned at least the rudiments of art from him. He [also] presumably trained his son Etienne".

Feigenbaum writes that, "between 1644 and 1651, the marquis de La Ferté-Sénecterre [...] the French governor of Lorraine, received six of La Tour's paintings as tribute from the cities of the region". It was also during this period that his nocturne paintings became popular. Anchored in the Baroque style, it was through his nocturnes that La Tour distinguished himself among his peers in the subtle way he used light to dramatize the actions of his subjects. Historian Pat Bauer writes, "The paintings of La Tour's maturity [...] are marked by a startling geometric simplification of the human form and by the depiction of interior scenes lit only by the glare of candles or torches. His religious paintings done in this manner have a monumental simplicity and a stillness that expresses both contemplative quiet and wonder".

Tragically, the plague that swept through Europe in the 1650s ravaged Lorraine and it is believed to have been the cause of La Tour's wife's death in 1652. What wider success La Tour might have achieved will remain unknown as this epidemic, a possibly a deep sense of grief, most likely claimed the artist's life only two weeks after his wife's passing. La Tour was fifty-eight years old.

The Legacy of Georges de La Tour

According to the author Dimitri Salmon, "La Tour's works were seldom copied in engravings and hence little known, nor did he have a biographer to record his life for posterity. Finally, Lorraine was constantly devasted by war for three centuries, and with it not only the painter's workshop but also the churches, monasteries, castles and mansions where his paintings hung". It wasn't until the early twentieth century that art historians began to examine La Tour's work through a contemporary lens, beginning in 1915 through the writings of art historian Hermann Voss. Calling his art "one of the great rediscoveries of the 20 th century", the historian Susan Moore states, "Today it seems inconceivable that this most compelling and singular of artists, highly successful in his day, should have been almost entirely forgotten for three centuries. [...] The reconstruction and rehabilitation of his artistic career have been described as 'the triumph of art history, and its justification'".

La Tour's work has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of artists. As Salmon states, "it is the fame of these works which is taken to task by the artists of the end of the twentieth and beginning of the twenty-first century as much as their beauty and the interest they arouse. Whatever their age, their career path or their nationality, whatever their aim or their technique, in their own way, today's artists - from the Chinese artist Yin Xin to the Mexican Alejandra Figueroa, the French artists Jérome Mesnager, Gérard Collin-Thiébaut and Frédéric Coché and the Italian Gerardo Dicrola - amply illustrate the tremendous infatuation with Georges de La Tour and the fascination that his Christ with Saint Joseph in the Carpenter's Shop and Adoration of the Shepherds exert more powerfully than ever before".

Influences and Connections

Useful Resources on Georges de La Tour

• Georges de La Tour and his World Our Pick By Philip Conisbee
• Georges de La Tour By Jacques Thuillier
• Georges de La Tour and the Enigma of the Visible By Dalia Judovitz
• Georges de La Tour: The Adoration of the Shepherds Christ with Saint Joseph in the Carpenter's Shop Our Pick Edited by Valeria Merlini, Dimitri Salmon, and Daniela Storti
• Flickers of genius By Laura Cumming / The Observer / July 15, 2007
• Georges de la Tour: The Fortune Teller - c1630s By Deanna MacDonald / Great Works of Western Art
• The Fortune-Teller Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
• A sale in Cologne turns the spotlight on Georges de La Tour By Susan Moore / Apollo Magazine / November 25, 2020
• French Paintings of the Fifteenth through the Eighteenth Century By Gail Feigenbaum / The Collections of the National Gallery of Art Systematic Catalogue, Washington, D.C. / 2009
• Georges de La Tour By Pat Bauer / Britannica.com
• Georges de La Tour's paintings in the UK: French Caravaggism in Leicester, Wiltshire and Teesside Our Pick By Christopher Wright / Art UK / January 19, 2012
• A Sale in Cologne Turns the Spotlight on Georges de La Tour By Susan Moore / Apollo Magazine / November 25, 2020
• Georges de La Tour's Penitent Magdalen | Painting of the Week Podcast | S3 EP17 This podcast provides an indepth look at Georges de La Tour's painting the Penitent Magdalen
• Lecture: Dr. Lynn Orr, Ph. D - September 28, 2019 This lecture presented at the Portland Museum of Art features Dr. Lynn Orr discussing Georges de La Tour's nocturne painting The Magdalen with the Smoking Flame
• George de La Tour National Gallery of Art

Related Movements & Topics

Content compiled and written by Jessica DiPalma

Edited and revised, with Summary and Accomplishments added by Antony Todd

• Exploring Italian Food
• Pairing Food & Wine
• Italian Food

La Tur Cheese

Production, Uses, and Recipes

The Spruce / Jennifer Meier

• What Is La Tur?

Substitutes

La Tur is a super creamy, soft Italian cheese made from a mix of cow's, sheep's, and goat's milk. This lesser-known cheese variety is from the Piedmont region in northern Italy and is typically sold in small, cupcake-sized wheels.

• Milk source: Cow, sheep, and goat
• Country of Origin: Italy (specifically the Alta Langa region of Piedmont, in northern Italy)
• Texture: Smooth, creamy, buttery
• Taste: Buttery and rich, with some earthy funk from the molded rind and a little acidic tang from the goat's milk
• Aged: For 10 days

What Is La Tur Cheese?

The easiest way to describe La Tur to a friend who doesn't know much about cheese is to call it an earthier, funkier brie—with a hint of tang. Like brie at room temperature, it's soft and ooey gooey. The soft, moist rind is completely edible and a delicious part of the cheese. Unlike your typical brie, it has a little more of that earthy, yeasty flavor, with a little tang from the goat's milk. It's full flavored without crossing over into pungent territory.

This cheese is made by a dairy called Caseificio dell'Alta Langa located in northern Italy's Piedmont region; the specific area is called Alta Langa, which is known for its sparkling wines.

La Tur is representative of Piedmont's Robiola style of cheese, which is generally soft-ripened —this just means the rind is soft and can be eaten. These cheeses are also called bloomy rind cheeses, which refers to the "bloom" of good bacteria that creates their distinctively delicious and soft rind. These cheeses are not aged very long and are enjoyed after only a few weeks.

How La Tur Cheese Is Made

A combination of cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk goes into La Tur cheese. To start the ripening process , the trio of milks is lightly pasteurized at a low temperature. This helps the natural microbes from the milks enhance the cheese's final flavor, keeping some of that earthy quality.

Next, the curds are ladled into molds, where they drain under their own weight before aging. As opposed to pressing, which uses weight to get rid of whey in the curds, this process allows for a higher-moisture, more fragile cheese to develop. The cheese then ages for a total of 10 to 15 days.

Usually, specialty cheese shops or high-quality grocery stores should have La Tur. If you can't find it, however, you could substitute a brie in its place on a cheese plate . La Tur is more complex than most bries because of its mix of different milks. However, choosing a goat's milk brie can mimic some of the flavor complexity, acidic finish, and funk. As with La Tur, or really any soft cheese, be sure to let it come up to room temperature before consuming. This will allow the full range of flavors to shine, and will showcase its magnificent creamy texture. Leave your cheese on the counter for one hour, give or take, before digging in.

If you've tried La Tur and you like it, you'll probably also like  Robiola Rocchetta ,  Brunet , and Robiola Bosina, which are made by the same Italian cheesemaker Caseificio dell’Alta Langa.

Unlike other Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano , which are used in cooking, La Tur is best eaten fresh, as on a cheese board. Consuming it at room temperature showcases its flavors and textures the best. You will want to serve it on crackers or bread because of its runny texture. Its salty, slight funk pairs well with a slightly sweet cracker, such as one studded with raisins. It also does well on table water crackers or French baguettes. It pairs wonderfully with sparkling wines, especially those from the Alta Langa area in Italy's Piedmont region. The bright fizz of these wines cuts through the rich tang of this magnificent cheese; any Champagne , cava , or prosecco is also an excellent pairing.

La Tur needs to be refrigerated because it's a soft-ripened, young cheese. It can keep in the fridge for several weeks—its flavor getting more funky the longer it is aged. Wrap it in a cheese cloth or parchment paper; it's important that La Tur, like all soft cheeses , be left to breathe in the fridge. Plastic wrap will suffocate the cheese, making it watery or pasty.

The one exception to this is if you're freezing it. And while it's possible to do so, it's less than ideal. However, if you must freeze it, wrap it in plastic wrap so that it's airtight, and pop it in the freezer before the expiration date. Let it thaw in the fridge.

In either case—whether you're pulling it out of the fridge or freezer—let it come to room temperature on the counter before enjoying. This will ensure that the flavors are at their most alive, and the buttery texture is at its best.

La Tur Cheese Recipes

Although La Tur is best eaten fresh and simply on crackers or bread, you could also substitute it for brie in any recipe. Keep in mind that La Tur is sold in smaller wheels, so you'll need to buy two or three to substitute for a standard wheel or larger wedge of brie. Because of La Tur's earthy, lightly tangy quality, it is paired well with sweeter ingredients, such as apples, raisins, or even cinnamon toast.

• Baked Brie With Amaretto
• Easy French Baked Apple Brie
• Grilled Apple and Brie Flatbread
• Warm Oven Brie With Pesto
• Easy Baked Brie
• If you're buying cheese in person (as opposed to ordering it online ), don't be afraid to ask for a sample to see if you like it first. This is a customary practice at good specialty cheese stores as well as at higher-end groceries.
• If you're feeling experimental, buy two or three packages of La Tur. Eat one on the first day or soon after, eat the second a week later, and the third a week after that. (Be sure, of course, that you don't exceed the expiration date.) La Tur is a young cheese that will continue to ripen in your fridge, resulting in flavor changes. It'll get more earthy and funky as time goes on. This is a fun way to experiment with cheese.
• Refrigerate your La Tur immediately after buying it, just like you would any soft-ripened cheese. However, don't forget to let it come up to room temperature before consuming it.
• La Tur is made with animal rennet , so some vegetarians may choose not to eat it.

La Tur: Northern Italy's Often Overlooked Creamy Cheese

Picture it! You're at a dinner party, and the host brings out this amazing cheese board. You spot the ones you know. There's an aged cheddar, a block of Gorgonzola, and the other usual suspects. But, there's one little nugget that you just can't seem to place. It looks like brie, only smaller, and its rind looks different. If only there was a cheese identification app! Resisting the urge to pull out your phone for a quick Cheezus search, you dig in. 

When your host serves up flutes of her best sparkling wine , you know you've chosen well. You take your first bite and sip of the evening with a not-so-silent purr. Oh, Cheezus! You do declare that Michelangelo himself would've definitely devoured such a masterpiece. With a bit of digging, maybe you'll need to drop some new 411 on your local cheesemonger. After all, serving La Tur at your own soirees from this point forward is going to be a thing.  

Where does La Tur cheese come from

Bordering France, Switzerland, and Lombardy, the Piemonte region is a gateway to the Alps (the word Piemonte literally means the foot of the mountains). The land is hilly, where hearty grape varietals such as Barbera and Nebbiolo thrive. And among those hills are the Langhe, where cheese production is a major part of its economy. Like the grapes, herds of livestock thrive here because of the mineral-rich clay soil, to which you can attribute La Tur's notable earthy qualities.  

Made from pasteurized cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk, La Tur expresses the terroir of its homeland in the northern Italian region of Piemonte — specifically in the town of Alba, where Barbera d'Alba wine also comes from. Even more specifically, La Tur is made in the small village of Bosia by a family of cheesemakers dating to 1881 –  Caseficio dell'Alta Langa.

What are the characteristics of La Tur

The rind's ripply surface might remind you of another French favorite — Crottin de Chavignol. La Tur is just as smooth as brie, making it natural for spreading on party crackers. And much like its French counterparts, the Italian cheese can be served at room temperature. It's dense yet creamy and with NYC's famous chees shop Murray's likening it to "a scoop of ice cream; decadent and melting from the outside in." 

The lightly bloomed rind gives way to a center that you'd swear is mousse if blindfolded. A Robiola style of soft-ripened cheese, La Tur is so fluffy because the cheese curds are drained, as opposed to being pressed. It's then aged in the mold for just 10-15 days before packaging. 

But how does it taste? Funky yet not pungent, while earthy and perhaps even citrusy flavors come to mind: Closer to the rind, you'll pick up goaty flavors, while the cloud-like center is where light notes of citrus linger. It's the blended milk that partially lends such a complex profile to La Tur.

Where to get La Tur and how to store it

If you're traveling through Northern Italy, Caseficio dell'Alta Langa should be a must-stop and can ship within Italy. Otherwise, it's probably not worth the hassle at customs.  

La Tur is often overlooked by American cheesemongers. So, count yourself lucky if yours keeps it in stock. Still, if you're having trouble finding a cheese shop near you that sells La Tur, Cheese.com features a locator. Also, there are several online shops that you can order from. For example, the New York City-based Murray's carries La Tur when available. Just be forewarned, as the site mentions, "We recommend you get back-up; La Tur is always the first to go at a party." 

Once you get your hands on this rare jewel of a cheese, treat it with kindness. It's young and needs some loving care. Although, it can last several weeks stored correctly in the refrigerator. If you choose to store it, opt for parchment paper for wrapping. If you need it to keep longer than a few weeks, La Tur can be frozen. Just slowly thaw it when you're ready to serve it. Regardless of your storage choice, bring it to room temp for the best La Tur cheese tasting ever.

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La Via Gaia

Authentic and Experiential Culinary Tours of Italy

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A new look into an old world, come and meet our friends, a new look into an old world.

Regional food and wine travel experiences with award-winning chef Jeff Michaud

Artisanal Italy in Modena,Bologna,& Parma

What we love: This relatively overlooked region introduced us to the legacy of craftsmanship in its heritage foods, and the authentic character of Modena Balsamic Vinegar, Prosciutto di Parma, and its delicate fresh pasta.

• Visit the village of Savigno, meeting artisans who carry on family traditions, including Guido, transforming the local Mora pig and Bianca Modenese cow into mouth watering cured meats and steaks for 3 generations.
• Walk the streets of Parma to discover and taste the gastronomic delicacies that will delight eyes, nose and palate.
• Learn about Italy’s luxury racing automobile at the Enzo Ferrari Museum with classic models on display.
• Become acquainted with the Spigaroli family, makers of Culatello di Zibello and sharing lunch at their Michelin-star restaurant, dedicated to the Po River territory’s culinary heritage.

Best of all, join the chefs Joe Sasto and Jeff Michaud in 2 pasta making classes and learn how to use a matterello (or wooden pin) to roll out the yolk-rich dough and then shape regional specialties like Tortellini, Tortelloni, and Tagliatelle.

Italy’s Treasures of Bergamo & Lake Iseo

What we love: Because Claudia grew up in Bergamo and her relatives still live there, we feel most connected to this historic walled city, where we spend most of our personal family time in Italy.

• Explore Lombardy's culinary culture, inspired by the bounty of the surrounding countryside.
• Stay in a truly enchanting retreat atop of Bergamo old town, famous for charming narrow streets and picturesque squares.
• Share traditional specialties like Acquarello carnaroli rice, veal ossobuco and bergamascan polenta, and the distinctive regional cheeses of the Orobic Alps.
• Cruise the hidden gem of Lake Iseo, situated in the Franciacorta wine region, producing some of Italy’s best sparkling wines.
• Settle into Milan’s stylish Navigli neighborhood for a classic aperitivo in a canal side bar, followed by a traditional Lombardy dinner.

Best of all, experience the cooking classes of award-winning chefs and friends Franklin Becker and Jeff Michaud, as they reveal the secrets of the area’s quintessential flavors, and even arrange a dinner with Jeff's mother-in-law, a true Italian home cook.

Bountiful Puglia

• Luxuriate at an exclusive Masseria in the Itria Valley. A 17th century restored villa bordered by private gardens in a valley of vineyards and olive groves.
• Taste culinary heritage in every bite of Pane di Altamura, celebrated regional crusty bread produced for over a century.
• Explore the maze of alleyway and connecting staircases in historic Ostuni, known as “Citta Bianca” for brilliantly whitewashed architecture.
• Watch Norcini masters craft authentic Pugliese Black Pig capocollo in Martina Franca, before an alfresco feast at the Caroli family olive mill.
• Be an artisanal cheesemaker at an organic Farm with owner Mariangela, followed by an intimate family lunch.

Discover local in Friuli & Slovenia

What we love: Here is where our daughter Gaia, only six years old at the time, enjoyed the entire 19-course meal at Hiša Franko, and we met our friend Giampaolo Venica, fourth generation vintner who now hosts our trips in his homey Wine Resort.

• Explore the cafe life in Trieste, stopping to savor a nero/espresso in this port city known as the “Capital of Coffee”.
• Meet regional winemaking luminaries who produce legendary varietals like Ribolla Gialla, celebrated for its bright fruitiness.
• Gather for a memorable meal from Ana Roš, named one of the world’s best female chefs, at her Michelin-starred Hiša Franko, in the countryside of nearby Slovenia.
• Wander the scenic mountain village of Sauris, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, known for its time-honored Alpine agricultural pastimes.

Best of all, experience a unique half day in Venice under the enthusiastic guide of Katie Parla and explore the region cuisine in a cooking class by award-winning chef Jeff Michaud as you learn to make local specialties like frico and Cjarsons a staple of Friuli’s rural cucina povera .

The Romance of Lake Garda & Verona

What we love: We launched our La Via Gaia trips here, taking over a farmhouse to welcome our very first guests. Since then this region became our Summer weekend getaway to enjoy stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and some of our favorite foods.

• Meet Veneto wine masters and learn to appreciate the difference between regional superstars, Amarone and Valpolicella.
• Appreciate the magic of Chiaretto di Bardolino, the rosata/rose famously produced in Alpine-Mediterranean environment of Lake Garda.
• Find yourself square in in the middle of Verona’s Piazza delle Erbe, crossroads of city life.
• Spend Sunday Supper with an olive oil producer for the Spiedo ritual of slow spit-cooking meat, among the world’s oldest techniques.
• Visit the beautiful and unique architectural structures of the Lemon Gardens that preserves an ancient local tradition.

Best of all, play a part in making authentic creations with award-winning chefs Jeff Michaud and Greg Vernick in intimate classes designed to give you first-hand experience.

Genuine Living in Piemonte Wine Region

What we love: Every year our family returns here, to the town of Alba known for its white truffles, to drink in spectacular vistas, romantic hill towns, wonderful food, and finely crafted wines.

• Experience robust Barolo and Barbaresco, produced from the intensely aromatic Nebbiolo grape in bottlings from top winemakers.
• Venture into the wild patches of forest on a truffle hunting mission.
• Roam through world-famous wine regions, from The Langhe and Roero's small DOCG wine district, to the hills of historic Monferrato.
• Taste the lush, buttery mouthfeel and a depth of flavor of Giorgio Cravero's Parmigiano Reggiano, a fifth generation cheese refiner in Bra.
• Float above vine covered hillsides and storybook villages in a sunrise balloon ride over Barolo, the heart of the Piedmont region.

Best of all, learn about Piemonte's unique cuisine in dinners at trattorias, Michelin-star restaurants, and in two memorable cooking classes, held by award-winning chefs and friends, Michael Cimarusti and Jeff Michaud and discover that, here, every meals tells a story.

What our fellow adventurers have to say

You feel like a true family member everywhere you go. Winemakers, cheesemakers, prosciutto makers, chefs, farmers, agriturismo proprietors, musicians all welcome you with very generous open arms like you've known them forever to share their talents, secrets. Their passion for what they do is contagious as is Jeff's love of Italy and his infectious smile and ability to connect everyone in the group to each other and bring out the adventurous spirit in all of us. Already booked another trip for next year!

The trip we took to Piemonte exceeded my expectations. It was clear from the start that at every place we went, the chef, owner, guide had a deep relationship with Jeff and they all went out of their way to make the trip one of the most memorable I have ever taken. La Via Gaia carefully put together the right blend and flow of activities to make every day perfect. I wouldn't change a thing

LA VIA GAIA highly curated experience in Piemonte was executed flawlessly with Jeff whisking us from cheese caves to wineries to unique dining experiences that would typically only be available to those in-the-know. His knowledge combined with command of the language and culture enables a plunge into Italian culture that cannot be obtained elsewhere. Bring your appetite, sense of adventure, and passion for luxury meets farm to table. Highly recommended...!

While over the top gastronomic experiences were expected and delivered what was most surprising was the laughter and friendships that flowed in even greater quantities that the exceptional wines and will last far longer.

This was one of the most remarkable trips we have ever taken. What made it so special was Jeff's over-sized, charming personality and the personal touches that went into the trip. From his intimate knowledge of the Bergamo & Lake Garda area's wineries, cheese makers & restaurants, the way he related to & looked out for the needs of everyone on the trip, to the extraordinarily special times like lunch at his mother-in-law Pina's to eating a home-cooked meal with the family that runs an olive oil business. Loved it all!

A private trip with La Via Gaia in Piemonte was an adventure I didn't even know I was missing! I was hesitant to go on an expensive trip with my colleagues but after the amazing comradery, wineries with views, a cheese tour/tasting, beautiful balloon ride, truffle hunting, vespa and convertible fiat driving, three Michelin restaurants, chef led cooking classes, shopping in Milan, Turin and Alba, incredible local restaurants, three amazing guides, and lots of fun I deem this trip priceless. The warmth exuded by Jeff and Claudia Michaud, and their guest Sommelier Matteo Donadoni added to a jam-packed itinerary (with some relax time included). Anyone can go to Northern Italy but these three shared their love of Italy with all of us.

La Via Gaia's culinary and wine tour is not to be missed. Chef Jeff Michaud and his beautiful wife sparkle as they share their love of all things Italian. Days are filled with private tours of wineries and a Parmigiano-Reggiano aging cave, a hot air balloon ride, a drive through the gorgeous Piemontese countryside, and a tour of Turin. The meals include simple regional dishes shared by local cooks, dinner made by the group participants during a cooking lesson at a winery, and spectacular dinners prepared by Michelin starred restaurants. Truly fantastico- grazie!

La Via Gaia has taken us on 2 unique and unforgettable trips filled with amazing food, wine and experiences. The key is Jeff Michaud’s infectious love of Italy, its people, its culinary traditions, and Italian life in general. The warm relationships he has built over the years with chefs, wine makers and shop owners flow onto the group and make us feel we are cared for in a way we have never experienced with any other trip.

Jeff and Claudia have thoughtfully created a traveling and eating experience that opens the window into the world of Northern Italy. It builds on their personal relationships and experiences, accumulated over many years of living in there. It is not a sterile tour, one lived out of a bus. Rather it is meeting the people that make Italy come to life on a daily basis.

Jeff and Claudia have created an experience like no other for folks who are truly passionate about food and wine. Jeff is the consummate host and, for one week, you are part of his family which includes not only your fellow travelers, but all of the amazing artisan producers and talented chefs that go to great lengths to make your time with them very special and memorable. Jeff's passion for everything culinary, along with his well established relationships, are what make this trip unique. This is more than a culinary tour - this is an immersion into the very best of what Italy has to offer.

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The 20 Best Italy Tours

See Italy's top tourist attractions and stunning cities on these guided excursions.

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Visitors can discover charming neighborhoods, enjoy delicious food and see top sights on Italy's best tours.

There's so much to see and do in Italy that it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan a trip that makes the most of the country's fabled history, art, architecture and cuisine – not to mention its 55-plus UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guided tours are an efficient, hassle-free way to explore the country's top attractions and cities. These Italy tours – considered the best by travelers and experts alike – vary by region, focus and method of transportation, but they all have one thing in common: highly motivated and informed guides ready to help you better appreciate your time in this beautiful European country.

The Roman Food Tour – Prati by Sunset – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 135 euros (about $148); kids from 80 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Enjoy Italian cuisine via this small group walking tour of five food-centric places in Rome 's Prati neighborhood near Vatican City . Stops include a cafe, a pizzeria and a gourmet food shop, and food samples typically include cheese, truffles, cured meat, pasta, tiramisu and pizza as well as wine. Food and wine enthusiasts regularly report enjoying learning about Roman culinary arts from the passionate, well-informed guides on this tour.

Outings last about four hours and are available daily all year long starting at 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. with additional 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. start times from May through October. Prices start at 135 euros (about $148) for adults, 89 euros (about $98) for teenagers 13 to 17 and 80 euros (about $88) for children 5 to 12. Prices cover all food and beverage samples, which may exceed 20 in total. The Roman Food Tour offers a variety of other foodie outings to different areas around the city, including one to the Trionfale neighborhood.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

City Wonders – Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tour

Price: Adults from $42; kids from $37 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Visit some of the most famous attractions in Rome on this 2- to 3-hour walking tour. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, which are filled with historic art pieces. Tour-takers rave about the spectacular art and architecture and appreciate the insightful guides.

Tours depart multiple times a day Monday through Saturday, typically between around 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $42 for adults and around $37 for children ages 6 to 18 (kids 5 and younger tour for free), but prices may vary by day and time. Tickets cover all entrance fees. Groups are limited to 20 participants. Note: Modest attire may be required to enter some sites. City Wonders operates several other tours around Rome as well as in other Italian cities like Milan .

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 139 euros (about $152); kids from 124 euros (about $135) Duration: 3 hours

Explore renowned sites of ancient Rome on this three-hour walk. Tours start at the Colosseum and visit areas of the amphitheater, such as underground cages and dungeons, that relatively few people get to see due to space and ticketing limitations. Other highlights include the Palatine Hill, one of Rome's seven hills where politicians of the Roman Empire once lived and where the ruins of numerous buildings from that era remain, and the Forum , once the center of social and political activity in ancient Rome. Reviewers frequently say the guides are not only informative, but also humorous and make learning about Roman history fun.

Tours, which are limited to six participants, are offered daily at a variety of times, typically between 9:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at 139 euros (about $152) for adults, 129 euros (about $141) for teenagers ages 13 to 17 and 124 euros (about $135) for kids ages 3 to 12. Students also receive a slight discount. LivItaly runs multiple tours in Rome, including one that visits some of the city's top attractions .

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

Walkabout Florence Tours – The Best of Tuscany in One Day Trip from Florence

Price: Adults from 83 euros (about $91); kids from 70 euros (about $77) Duration: 12 hours

Take a day to experience Tuscany and its UNESCO World Heritage sites on this trip via air-conditioned coach. Highlights include a guided walking tour in the medieval town of Siena , a visit to San Gimignano and a trip through the countryside to Pisa. Optional upgrades include lunch and wine-tasting at a Chianti vineyard and skip-the-line entry to Pisa's famous Leaning Tower . While trip-takers consistently describe the guides as knowledgeable and personable, they also appreciate having time to explore each destination on their own.

Buses depart from Florence 's Piazza Stazione daily at 8 a.m. and return approximately 12 hours later. Prices start at 83 euros (about $91) for adults and 70 euros (about $77) for kids ages 8 to 17, not including lunch. The full tour, including lunch at the winery and access to the tower, costs approximately 113 euros (around $123) for adults and 100 euros (approximately $109) for kids. Note: While there's no charge for children younger than 8 to take the tour, they cannot climb the tower.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Walks of Italy – Legendary Venice: St. Mark's Basilica with Terraces & Doge's Palace

Price: Adults from $113; kids from $107 Duration: 3 hours

This tour encompasses some of the most significant spots in Venice : St. Mark's Square , St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace . Both the church and the palace are art-filled buildings with eventful histories. (The palace, for instance, was more than a site of political administration; it also contains prisons and torture chambers.) Guides recount the colorful backstories, which tour-takers invariably find informative and entertaining.

Three-hour walking tours beginning in the square happen daily at 2 p.m. and every day except Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Earlier departures (at 8 a.m.) may also be available on select days. Tickets start around $113 for adults and $107 for children 2 to 14, though you may find some higher or lower prices depending on the date and time. (There's no charge for infants.) The visit to the basilica includes access to a balcony affording views of the square and nearby lagoon. Another bonus? Taking this tour enables you to bypass the lines to enter the palace and the basilica.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Withlocals – The 10 Tastings of Venice

Price: From 85 euros (about $93) per person for a group of six Duration: 3 hours

As its name indicates, this tour features 10 tastings of typical Venetian food and drinks. It's essentially a private, customizable, small-group walking tour that can be tailored to participants' interests. Even so, samples usually include local favorites like spritz (a wine-based cocktail) and gelato. Tour-takers tend to enjoy both the visits to multiple local eateries and the amusing guides' insightful commentary.

Three-hour tours depart from Venice's Campo Manin daily with multiple start times; the earliest is typically 10 a.m. and the latest 6 p.m. Prices vary by group size and start at approximately 252 euros (about $275) for one person (the minimum) and descend to about 85 euros (about $93) per person for groups of six (the maximum). Groups larger than six should contact the tour company directly to schedule.

Blue Star Boat Tours – Amalfi Coast Group Tour

Price: From $88 Duration: 7 hours

Another option for seeing the beaches and caves of the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast is from the water. Sights seen on this daylong expedition typically include the picturesque geological features of Fiordo di Furore beach; Grotta della Pandora, a cave accessible only from the sea; and the Emerald Grotto, named for the color of the light that fills the cave. The approximately seven-hour tour, which departs from Positano, also includes an hour or two of free time to explore the town of Amalfi. Travelers typically appreciate the professional, personable staff and the opportunities to swim in such a scenic setting.

Tickets cost approximately $88 per person. There is a maximum of 12 people per group. Note: There's an additional fee to enter the Emerald Grotto. Private boat tours and sunset cruises are also available.

You Know! – Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento

Price: Adults from 104 euros (about $114); kids from 84 euros (about $92) Duration: 9 hours

See the sights along the Sorrento coast, including a waterfall, a lighthouse and Roman ruins, on this boat ride. The tour also features a three- to five-hour stop on Capri during which travelers can explore the small island's famed Piazzetta, as well as churches and a medieval district. There's also time for swimming and snorkeling. Tour-takers consistently find the scenery beautiful and the guides professional and friendly.

The approximately nine-hour trips happen daily starting at 9:45 a.m. Prices vary by season, but typically start at around 104 euros (about $114) for participants 10 and older and 84 euros (about $92) for kids ages 3 to 9. (There's no cost for infants to join the trip.) Trips are capped at 12 to 14 people. Prices include transportation between Sorrento and the port as well as snacks and beverages on the boat. Fees don't cover lunch on Capri, snorkeling equipment or entrance fees to attractions. The company also offers boat tours to Capri that depart from Amalfi.

World Tours Italy – Pompeii and Amalfi Coast (with Lunch)

Price: From 128 euros (about $140) Duration: 8 hours

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites on this daylong excursion. When the volcano Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79, ash swallowed the city of Pompeii and preserved many buildings. Now, the archeological site affords glimpses into how people lived during the era of the Roman Empire. This trip includes two to three hours at Pompeii as well as a drive along the Amalfi Coast with stops in the towns of Amalfi and Ravello, both of which boast notable art and architecture. You'll also have a few photo stops, including one in Positano . Travelers consistently remark on the exceptional coastal scenery and the insight and humor of the guides at Pompeii.

Tours occur daily. Passenger pickups begin around 7:30 a.m.; the drive to Sorrento begins at just before 9 a.m. After a busy day, the tour returns to the city around 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at 128 euros (about $140) for adults, with discounts for children ages 5 to 12. (There's no fee for children younger than 5.) Prices vary by time and day. Keep in mind that tours in English may not be offered in the colder months. Prices include lunch at a restaurant on the coast, but do not cover entrance to Pompeii. If you can't get enough of the Amalfi Coast, World Tours also offers daytrips that visit Capri and Sorrento.

Prestige Rent – Wine Experience in Tuscany

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $97); kids from 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 5 hours

Enjoy red wines typical of the Chianti region on this trip to two wineries. You'll also sample Tuscan fare, including olive oil, cheese and cured meat, during this approximately five-hour outing. Along the roughly 45-minute drive from Florence, guides will provide background information on local viniculture. At each stop, resident experts will describe the wine-making process. Wine lovers typically find the samples delicious and the guides energetic and informative.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered twice a day starting at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Prices start at 89 euros (about $97) for adults and 79 euros (about $86) for youngsters 12 to 17 and include transportation between Florence's Piazzale Montelungo and the vineyards, as well as the various food and beverage samples. Note: Children younger than 12 are not permitted on this tour. Prestige Rent also leads tours to Siena and San Gimignano.

Italian Days Food & Wine Tours – Bologna Food and Wine Tour #1

Price: Adults from 180 euros (about $197); kids from 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 8 hours

Observe the production of three Italian staples – Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar and prosciutto – on this daylong culinary excursion. Of course, this tour also includes samples of the cheese, vinegar and cured meat, as well as breakfast, coffee, wine and a multicourse family-style lunch. Throughout the day, guides explicate the food-making processes, which foodies invariably find fascinating.

Minibuses pick up in front of Grand Hotel Majestic in Bologna around 7 a.m. and head to Modena every day except Sunday. The tour lasts about eight hours. Tickets start at around 180 euros (about $197) for adults and 150 euros (about $164) for children 2 to 11, though costs vary by season. Prices include transportation as well food and beverages. The tour is capped at 18 participants. Italian Days offers a variety of food tours, including a walking tour in Bologna.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator

Bici & Baci Tours – The Grand Tour of Rome

Price: From 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 3 hours

Admire the signature sights of Rome from atop an Italian Vespa, on this approximately 22-mile ride around the city. Highlights include the Aurelian Walls, the Appian Way , the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain , St. Peter's Basilica , the Pantheon , ruins of ancient aqueducts and baths, and more. Reviewers consistently describe the guides as helpful, skillful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

Fees start at 150 euros (about $164) for a single person operating a Vespa or a passenger riding with a guide. Fees are about 250 euros (about $273) for two people on a scooter. Prices include use of a helmet as well as coffee or ice cream. Daily tours start at 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and typically last around three hours.

Note: Operators of Vespas must have valid motorcycle or driver's licenses. Children are permitted as passengers with their parents as long as they are tall enough for their feet to reach the scooters' foot pegs. The company also operates tours that travel to some of the city's most iconic movie filming locations.

City Wonders – Best of Milan Duomo Cathedral & Da Vinci's 'Last Supper' Tour

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $114 Duration: 3 hours

Take a walking tour of Milan and enjoy skip-the-line access to two of its top attractions. You'll experience the Duomo , a monumental cathedral, construction of which commenced around 1386 and went on for centuries. Another highlight of this trip is a visit to Leonardo's "The Last Supper" in its original location, a former convent. Plus, you'll visit spots like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade housing upscale boutiques; Sforzesco Castle , a 15th-century military fortification; and the cobbled streets of the Brera district. Travelers consistently describe the guides as insightful and professional.

This excursion happens multiple times every day except Monday. Specific start times vary by day. Tours last three hours, including 15 minutes with the famous painting. Prices start at around $125 for anyone 15 and older and $114 for those 14 and younger. Groups have no more than 14 participants.

Grape Tours in Tuscany – Super Chianti Wine Tour

Price: From 195 euros (about $213) Duration: 7 hours

Spend a day indulging in wine on this trip to the cellars and vineyards of two wineries. In addition to visiting Chianti and Chianti classico wineries and sampling vino, cheese and olive oil, you'll also enjoy lunch at an eatery in the Tuscan hilltop town of Panzano. Wine lovers report enjoying learning about the regions' wine from the adept guides.

Tours happen every day except Sunday. Buses leave Florence at 10 a.m. and return approximately seven hours later. Tours, including transportation and food and beverages, cost approximately 195 euros (about $213) per person. The outing welcomes up to eight participants, and guests must be at least 16 years old.

View & Book Tickets:  Grape Tours in Tuscany

TopBike Rental & Tours – Rome City Bike Tour

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 4 hours

Wind through the streets of Rome and see several of its famed attractions on this four-hour electric bike ride, offered in either the morning or the afternoon. Tours may include visits to popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona , the Jewish Ghetto, the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Orange Garden for its views of the city, including the dome of St. Peter's. Cyclists regularly praise the insightful, friendly guides on this leisurely ride.

Morning start times vary by time of year, but are usually 8:45 or 9:30 a.m.; afternoon trips start at 2 or 3 p.m. It costs approximately 65 euros (about $71) to take this ride, and that includes use of an e-bike and helmet. The company also operates daylong bike tours that include lunch, as well as guided outings along the Appian Way.

City Wonders – Florence Fully Guided Tour with Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo's David and Accademia

Price: Adults from $108; kids from $102 Duration: 5 hours

Bypass the lines to enter both the Uffizi Gallery – home to 14th-century and Renaissance masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo and Caravaggio – and the Accademia Gallery – where Michelangelo's 14-foot David sculpture resides – on this tour. In addition to independent visits to the galleries, the small-group outing includes a two-hour guided walking tour of the center of Florence to see top sights, such as its cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio bridge, the leather market and Piazza della Signoria. Tour-takers generally appreciate the guides' commentary regarding the city's art, architecture and history. Others warned future travelers that the visits to the galleries are unguided.

Half-day tours with 10 and 10:30 a.m. start times happen daily. Prices are about $108 for adults and $102 for children 4 to 14. Children 3 and younger tour for free. Groups are limited to 17 people.

Walkabout Florence Tours – Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with optional Hiking Tou

Price: Adults from 113 euros (about $123); kids from 100 euros (about $109) Duration: 13 hours

This daylong expedition takes travelers to the towns comprising the Cinque Terre , a string of old fishing villages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea that form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buses travel from Florence to Manarola, home to vineyards and colorful buildings typical of the area. From there, trains head to Corniglia, which boasts unrivaled views of the sea. After lunch, participants can either hike the mule trails that connect the towns or ride a train to Vernazza, where swimming or visiting cafes and bars are among the optional activities. Trains then proceed to Monterosso, a town known for both beaches and shops. Weather permitting, the tour also includes a boat ride to the fifth and final Cinque Terre town, Riomaggiore. Trip-takers rave about both the scenic locations and the efficient, personable guides.

Tourgoers return to Florence approximately 13 hours after the daily 7:30 a.m. departure time. Tickets for the tour start at around 113 euros (about $123) for adults and 100 euros (about $109) for kids 8 to 17. Children younger than 8 are not permitted. Prices do not include lunch in Corniglia, but an upgrade is available for an additional fee.

Delicious Bologna – Daylight Food Tour Bologna

Price: Adults from 90 euros (about $98); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Taste some of the essentials of Italian cuisine on this small-group walking tour. In addition to a light breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto (a croissant-like pastry) and lunch of multiple pasta dishes, this outing features samples of local cheese, cured meat, vinegar and wine. It also visits a food market and a pasta factory. Throughout, guides provide commentary about regional culture and traditions, which culinary enthusiasts tend to find informative.

Tours take place every day except Sunday at 10 a.m. and last four to five hours. Groups of up to eight people begin the day at the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana. Fees start at 90 euros (about $98) for adults and 70 euros (about $76) for kids and teens ages 2 to 14. (There's no charge for infants.) Additional food and wine tours, as well as cooking classes, are hosted by Delicious Bologna.

Streaty Street Food Tours of Italy – Palermo Street Food and Local Market Tour

Price: Adults from 54 euros (about $59); kids from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3 hours

Savor varieties of Sicilian fare on this walking tour of Sicily 's capital, Palermo. Samples are likely to include arancina (stuffed rice balls), cazzilli fritters, pani câ meusa (a veal offal roll), sfincione (focaccia with tomato sauce), cannoli filled with ricotta, broscia col gelato (an ice cream sandwich) and seasonal items, as well as beer and wine. After departing from Teatro Massimo, tours wind through backstreets rather than the city's main thoroughfares. Travelers typically find this tour both fun and educational.

Walks last three hours and are available at multiple times Monday through Saturday all year, usually starting between 10 and 11 a.m. Prices start at 54 euros (about $59) for participants ages 12 and older and 20 euros (about $22) for children 6 to 11. Groups are limited to 10 participants. The company also offers an evening food tour in Palermo.

Etna Tribe – Excursion Etna and Taormina

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $93); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 9 hours

Explore Mount Etna , an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily that ranks as the highest island mountain in the Mediterranean, on this daylong tour. Your guide will drive you from Catania to a section on Etna's south face where you'll hike up to 6,560 feet above sea level, or (for additional fees) take a cable car up to 8,200 feet. From there, you'll have the option of taking a van to Torre del Filosofo, which sits at an elevation of more than 9,500 feet. With an alpine guide leading the way, you'll explore the lava-carved terrain. The trip also includes a stop at an organic farm and a visit to the town of Taormina, where you'll have time to wander among attractions, such as a cathedral, a clock tower, a palace and a theater, before the drive back to Catania. Tour-takers enjoy walking among the volcano craters and learning about the area from the friendly, accommodating guides.

Pickup starts at 8:30 a.m. and tours, which occur daily, last approximately nine hours. Prices start at 85 euros (about $93) for those 12 and older, 70 euros (about $76) for kids ages 3 to 11 and 20 euros (about $22) for infants. Paying online in advance may save you a few euros per ticket. The optional cable car ride costs an additional 50 euros (about $55) and the high-altitude option, including both the cable car and the van rides, start at 78 euros (about $85) per person. Etna Tribe also offers sunset excursions to the mountain, among other options.

The Best Multiday Tours in Italy

While there are plenty of tours across Italy's most popular cities that last a few hours or an entire day, some travelers may be interested in multiday tours that visit several destinations or points of interest. Below are some of the top multiday tours in Italy.

• Best of Italy: Visit Rome, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Venice and more. Book on GetYourGuide .
• Amalfi Coast Small Group Tour: Explore Pompeii, Capri and Sorrento. Book on Viator .
• Scenic Sicily Tour: See the towns of Taormina, Palermo, Mount Etna and Erice. Book on Viator .
• Classic Cultural Cities: Discover the sights of Rome, Venice and Florence. Book on Viator.
• Highlights of the Italian Lakes: Enjoy Milan, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and more. Book on Grand European Travel .
• Scenic Sailing Adventure: Sail around Sardinia and Corsica. Book on Viator .
• Fun for Foodies: Taste your way across Italy on a nine-day food tour. Book on The Table Less Traveled .

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best Cheap European Vacations

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Italy

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Ecco La Cucina Culinary Tours In Italy

Ancient Puglia

Medieval Tuscany

Elegant Piedmont

Stay up to date on food, wines and our latest tours in italy with our monthly newsletter, experience italy through its food & wine.

Taste and see the best of Italy with our luxury culinary vacation tours. With winery tours, local food tours and guided visits to ancient hill towns, along with hands on cooking classes and delectable meals in traditional local restaurants, you will be immersed into Italy’s foods and wines, and its culture and history.

In Italian, Ecco La Cucina means “Here’s the Kitchen” and during our tours we explore all aspects of the Italian table, from the local food and wine to the history of this beautiful country.  Our small group culinary tours in Italy are expertly designed to give you an insider’s view and stress-free vacation where you can relax and enjoy the foods, wines and stunning landscapes. It truly is an experience of a lifetime and one that will become a cherished memory.

If your dream is to explore the foods, wines and culture of Italy without the crowds and live like a local, then travel with us, experts in Italian food and wine. We will show you the enchanting regions of Tuscany, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna, Veneto, Campania-Amalfi, and Puglia during our culinary tours in Italy. Each of our small group tours are designed to provide you with knowledge and special insights to this beautiful, rich culture. We can help you fulfill your dream as you taste and experience Italy, allowing you to truly understand the rhythm of Italian life.

Choose your culinary adventure:

Medieval Tuscany Culinary Tour

Elegant Piedmont Culinary Tour

Ancient Puglia Culinary Tour

• Sparkling Veneto Wine Tour
• Bologna & Emilia-Romagna Tour
• Campania – Naples, Sorrento Amalfi Tour

Mary Stipo Potter

Email: [email protected]

Phone:  (+1) 972-342-8308 (CST - Dallas)

The best of Cinque terre Tour

• Port pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Entry/Admission - View Point Corniglia
• Entry/Admission - Parco Regionale delle Alpi Apuane
• Entry/Admission - Vernazza
• Entry/Admission - Portovenere
• Food and drinks
• If your port is Livorno the driver will pick you up right below the ship where ALL THE PRIVATE DRIVERS STANDS. If your port is in La Spezia please take the free orange shuttle that will take you right outside the port gate where all the private drivers stands Your driver in either port will hold a sign with your group leader name on it
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• comfortable shoes reccomended
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Portovenere
• View Point Corniglia

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 View Point Corniglia Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Vernazza Stop: 2 hours - Admission included See details
• 3 Portovenere Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Paul P 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A few bumps but overall a nice experience So far, the trip has been very good, however, there have been some issues that have required us to contact Ciao Italy to get corrections. First day, arriving in Venice after an overnight flight, we got to the hotel and there was no reservation. After 30 min or more, it was finally determined that the reservation was in the name of our travel agent and not in our name. Very frustrating. Also, the paperwork from Ciao Italy said the hotel stay included breakfast and lunch. Not so! Hotel told us only lunch is included. Ok. The stay in Venice was very nice and we enjoyed the tours. Next stop was Florence. Breakfast included with stay and it was a very nice stay. Then on to Naples/Sorrento. Arriving at Sorrento, we were told we did not have rooms with a sea view as promised in the Ciao Italy paperwork. Contacted our travel agent and she began trying to get Ciao Italy to correct the issues. After an hour (we had already checked into the hotel), Ciao Italy came back with a resolution - transfer to another hotel with rooms with sea view. So packing up and then traveling by taxi to the alternative hotel. It was a very nice hotel - nicer than the original but still VERY inconvenient that we had to move to another hotel. The new hotel, while nice, is not located nearly as close to shopping and restaurants. These issues should have never happened if Ciao Italy had paid attention to the details. The resolutions have been good, but we should not have to involve the travel agent after our journey begins. It has been inconvenient. *** Update after trip was concluded *** Final stop was in Rome. We were booked in Hotel Imperiale, in a good central location for seeing the ancient city of Rome. The hotel is touted as a 4-star hotel but this hotel is older and has not been updated in the last couple of decades. There were no electrical outlets near the bed (no good if you use a CPAP machine). I would barely rate this hotel a 3-star. The staff was very helpful - truly the bright spot for this hotel. I would recommend that Ciao Italy review their hotels so that when they recommend a 4-star hotel to their clients, it is truly a 4-star hotel. We had some issues on the trip that could have been avoided with more careful follow up; however, the issues were handled - but should never had occurred in the first place Read more Written November 4, 2023
• Ross H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Valeria from Coia Italy Tours Valeria from Coia Italy Tours. We had a wonderful time with Valeria, travelling around Portofiono. Valeria is very friendly & knowledgable about Portofino & the surrounding area. Valerias driving is very safe & courteous. Could i suggest that you ask for Valeria by name. You will go a long way to find a better person to show u around. Read more Written October 2, 2023
• mariafI5593NV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful week exploring the best of Italy with Ciao Tours! This Ciao Italy Escorted 7 day/6 night tour of Venice, Florence & Rome was the first time my husband and I took an organized tour and it was terrific! Well organized, a good balance of escorted tours and free time (though a little more time on our feet than oldsters like us are used to), smooth transportation by high-speed rail between cities. Milena was a fantastic tour director. She stayed with us the entire tour and made sure everyone was happy and received everything they expected. She is full of energy and knowledgeable. Ciao Tours even set up an extra visit to Pompeii for us that was not part of the tour we selected. A great experience - we would definitely recommend Ciao Tours! Read more Written September 2, 2023
• Jedi6868 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great visit to Florence/Pisa When you only have 10 hours to get from Port La Spezia to Florence and Pisa, you need a driver. Valeria and Paolo were amazing. They were right there when we got off the cruise port bus. We were always only steps away from the various tourist attractions. They took the stress of transport out of our hands. We can relax and enjoy the day. Thank you guys!!! Read more Written August 31, 2023
• 121betteb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Day tour to Pisa, Lucca and the Segreto Winery with Claudia We were a group of 5 who were lucky to have Claudia as our guide from the moment she picked us up to Pisa, Lucca and the Segreto Winery. Claudia was very nice and informative and accommodating all the way. I would definitely recommend this tour with Claudia! Read more Written July 21, 2023
• Rita A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Relax and enjoy the view with a professional driver I highly recommend booking a private driver service when you want to explore the beautiful Tuscan towns. Our driver Valeria was very professional and provided us with commentary on the different towns. We were particularly interested in experiencing the true Tuscan region, and suggested lunch and wine tasting at a typical family owned Tuscan winery. What an experience! Absolutely sensational. She was there when we were ready to go and accommodated all our requests. Highly recommend. Read more Written June 23, 2023
• roberttQ8821ND 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Italy Tours is good but Valeria made our trip extra soecial!!! Valeria was our driver and she made the trip phenomenal. She spoke English well and was full of information while we were driving the Tuscany countryside. One member of our group left and went off on her own and Valeria and our tour guide, Paulo went above and beyond to find her when it was time to leave. This woman’s disrespectful behavior cost us precious time we were going to get to spend in San Gimigano but Valeria and the other driver Diego found a way to give us back some of our time there for which we were very grateful. They also got us back to our ship in plenty of time. I would take another tour again anytime with Valeria. My whole family loved having her as our driver. She is sweet, knowledgeable and a good driver! Read more Written May 31, 2023
• Lois C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles CIAO Italy Tours Deserves a 10!! I would highly recommend CIAO Italy tours to anyone. Our trip to Italy was amazing!! Rome, Florence, Venice every city has its own beauty!! All transfers, all hotels, all tour guides were phenomenal!! The transfer drivers and tour guides were dependable prompt and polite. Very clean vans with great drivers even including water for us to drink and always willing to go an extra mile as well as all the tour guides. We never felt rushed while on our tours and very accommodating to our needs. Each tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and kind. Skipping the long lines at each site was huge. The hotels were fantastic as well. Great locations clean comfortable with outstanding staff at each hotel. CIAO tours made this trip of lifetime so seamless they deserve a 10!!! Read more Written March 22, 2023
• MaryAnnF6755 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing day in Tuscany Davide was delightful. He made our day so much fun. We first visited the leaning tower, then were off to Florence. The day was perfectly arranged to work with our scheduled time to see "The David". He arranged our luncheon reservations at. An amazing restaurant prior to the museum. The highlight for us was the private tour and tasting at San Michele winery where we learned so much about wine and olive making . He provided the perfect experience that we were looking for. Unquestionably we would not hesitate to use his services again, we highly recommend him, as he was charming and accommodating. Mary Ann and John, Naples, Florida Read more Written August 31, 2022
• Fearless45085174681 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to explore from Florence We can’t say enough about David…we were staying in Florence for the week and wanted to do 2 trips outside of the city. Day 1 we went to Cinque Terre and 2nd tour day was for Siena and San Gimignano. Amazing tours with a great guide in a comfortable mini van (we were 5 people). The whole group loved both days and really enjoyed touring with Ciao Italy Tours!! Read more Written April 19, 2022
• 11Fairfield 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Elizabeth and Raull Elizabeth was our guide and Raul was our driver We had had a very enjoyable experience visiting San Gimignnano Monteriggioni Sienna and wine tasting. Beautiful historical villages excellent guide in Siena and all went very efficiently Lunch was really good too S long day but well worth it and a good price Read more Written October 23, 2021
• Skibum1213 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful tour! Guides, bus driver All 💯 I went on a tour with Ciao Florence! We went on a bus with about 50 people to: montriggioni, Sienna, San Gimignano including a very nice lunch in Sienna and a wine tasting at a fabulous winery! I 🥰🥰🥰 YES, this tour and the value was outstanding!! ✅🇮🇹💯🇮🇹 Read more Written July 21, 2021
• josephykwok 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Day tour to Pisa & Florence We were a group of 13 and booked 2 mini van with Ciao Italy Tours. First thing to my surprise was that David from Ciao was able to contact and reconfirmed the pick up details via WhatsApp call, while we were cruising to Livorno Port. Then we were picked up by 2 very experience guides Paolo and Carlo, they were very knowledgeable and were not just a driver. They took us to Pisa and Florence and explained details about the places of interest. Also, we were so pleased that Paolo and Carlo had brought us to a local Italian restaurant, which we had an excellent lunch. Read more Written December 13, 2019
• herfarca 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles siena,san gimagio and pisa I went on a tour with Francesco, a very fun and experienced guide, and it was Amazing!!! very beautiful cities. Read more Written August 6, 2019
• PotterygirlNYC 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience We toured with David on 4 different days during our stay in Italy. He was wonderful. It felt like we were traveling with a good friend. He's so easy to talk to, spend time with and he had great suggestions. He's a very safe driver, arrives on time and always with a smile. It's important to him that his clients are happy and enjoy their vacation. He made our trip that much more special. I emailed with him prior to the trip in order to plan each day and he was very responsive, I would definitely book with David again during my next vacation. Thank you David!! Read more Written May 30, 2019

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La Dolce Vita Touring

Italy travel specialist.

Let me introduce you to La Dolce Vita Touring 

Our customized itineraries are focused on the exclusive and discerning traveler to become culturally immersed in Italy, experiencing its spectacular natural beauty, sweeping landscapes, romantic vineyards, medieval cities, incomparable architecture, unparalleled art, alluring history, and fabulous food.

Italy is simply extraordinary !

Andiamo! A trip to Italy is an unforgettable life experience! 

Explore our Fabulous Tours:

*2024 Anytime Upscale Private Tours that combine culture and leisure for an exclusive, relaxed traveling experience. To get the most out of this private & customized tour experience, the group size is limited to maximum 8 travelers. You choose your group, where you want to go, and your dates. We'll take care of the rest. Create a personalized journey for you & your group with your own dedicated Tour Director.

* 2024 Iconic Spring  Tour: Venice, Florence & Rome

We've picked three iconic cities at the pulse of Italy's vibrant culture, both past and present. Venice brings romance to the forefront, with sprawling Baroque palaces and meandering, gondola-dotted canals. The Renaissance is tangible in Florence, where the presence of the world's greatest artists can still be felt. And in Rome, history is ever-present, from the crumbling  Colosseum to the Forum. The people, the food, the way of life—experience what Italy is all about as you make your way from one city to the next.

* 2024 Naples & Amalfi Coast Tour: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Capri & Amalfi Coast (Positano, Amalfi & Ravello)

La Dolce Vita Touring offers truly independent tours. No tour guides, no group leaders: Experience the freedom of solo travel where you have the time to go where you want to go, meet who you want to meet, and do what you want to do. With the La Dolce Vita Touring In-depth Cultural tour to Rome, Naples, Pompei, Sorrento, Capri and Amalfi Coast, you have a 14 days tour package. It includes 4 and 5 star hotels accomodation as well as meals, first class and fast domestic transportation by car, train, ferry, boat or plane, sightseeing tours with local guides and activities where you'll get to skip those long lines! With La Dolce Vita Touring you get to travel in style independently, see the famous sights you've read about, and order additional services while still having the freedom to do what you want. Start from ancient Rome and travel to Naples to try the best pizza, explore the ruins of Pompeii, enjoy a boat trip to beautiful Sorrento and Capri to see the unique caves and grottoes, travel to romantic Amalfi Coast with the best beaches and colorful towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello and try most beloved drink: limoncello.

* 2024 Sicily Tour: Palermo, Trapani, Agrigento, Syracuse & Taormina.

Discover a multicultural island in the middle of the Mediterranean. Some treasures do not need to be touched to perceive their rarity. However, in this triangular and evocative region, you will constantly come across the signs left by history, the passage of man and his creativity. 

Get ready to discover how Sicily can amaze you. Sicily will surprise you when you least expect it. As you stroll along the streets, you will come across the works of contemporary street art: it is intense, immediate and universal. Looking out, over the infinity of the Sicilian hinterland, from the Andromeda Theatre, you will see a mystical and ancestral place. You will feel like floating in sidereal space. You have the chance to visit artisan’s workshops , guardians of traditions handed down from father to son.

Some customs are very ancient, such as the working of obsidian or the unique and precious Mediterranean coral . These traditions keep alive arts and knowledge of inestimable value, they are World Heritage Site. This heritage also includes the Sicilian puppets , protagonists of the Opera dei Pupi . Or the art of dry stone walls that embellish landscapes with their ancient beauty.

And what about archaeological sites of Sicily? 

7 UNESCO sites , some are among the most beautiful archaeological sites of all time. Examples; Pantalica , the Valley of the Temples and the magnificent Greek Theatre of Taormina . They all bear witness to a glorious past in bright colours just waiting to be discovered. In Sicily, you will find countless places of culture, beautiful theatres and museums, artistic routes and endless opportunities to breathe in art en plein air. You will cherish this journey in the depths of your heart, along with your most precious memories.

Minchu M. Mendive

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Minchu M. Mendive - Certified Travel Advisor

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La Spezia Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through La Spezia. We've got 66 adventures going to La Spezia, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 36 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

66 La Spezia tour packages with 436 reviews

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Highlights of Italy

Exactly how I like with the itinerary, you’re able to visit most of the place’s must-see destinations and heaps of time to know the place more on your own.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Pisa - Cinque Terre

A great cycling vacation! The individual stages were well chosen (route, length, landscape, hotels) and the navigation has largely worked very well. With the slopes, especially in the heat, a good condition or possibly an e-bike is required.

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Italy

A great trip thoroughly enjoyed by me and my wife. May thanks to Massimo Mabelia for his excellent leadership.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Cinque Terre : Hiking Self Guided Tour - 7 days from Sestri Levante

Walking in the Cinque Terre and Portofino

• Coastal Walks
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Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking Tour

My wife and I talked about going to Italy for 25 years. When we finally decided to go I saw Caspin Journeys on tour radar. It looked the perfect fit for us , and it truly was. Exploring the sites and walking the Tuscany countryside was like a romantic movie for us.

• Christmas & New Year

Simply Italy - 8 Days / 7 Nights

Our tour with Lorenzo was amazing, he showed us all around Venice on our first day, and again when we met with him in Florence for our city and wine tour. He was absolutely amazing and so much fun to be around, he made our experience and trip so memorable. Our tour of Rome was with Frederico and he was also great and knew so much about the history or the buildings and locations that we visited. The only part that was not enjoyable was our tour guide did not show up at the meeting location for our tour of Morano and Borano so we missed the boat to get there even though we were on time and waiting. Overall I had a great time on the tours and met a lot of amazing people.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Italy By Train

Well done booking the hotel , excellent service from hotel’s and people to pick us up from the airport and taking us back! Thank you! We enjoy it!

Italian Espresso (Summer, Classic, 10 Days)

Northern Italy Including Cinque Terre (8 Days)

• Coach / Bus

Italy's Best

I liked the tour very much, well planned, the tour director excellent, only some hotels were not so good, but they were only like 3, the rest were excellent. As for the food I did not like much especially the first dinner in Rome, very bad food and attention, but overall I enjoyed a lot, and of course I will travel with you again. Thank you!

Simply Italy (Summer, Classic, 15 Days)

Tutta l'Italia

It was smooth and successful having the hotels and transfers between each city. The first seven days were extremely busy with full guided tours and then the pace slowed down to have more free time and relaxing moments the second half of the trip once we were along the coastal cities of Sorrento and Cinque Terre. This was a good tour to see many cities and the guides were knowledgeable and helpful in sharing the history of Italy. I know know which areas I will be going back to for longer time periods in my next trip.

• Walking Adventure

Treasures of Tuscany & Liguria - 7 days

6-Day Cinque Terre, Florence & the Flavours of Tuscany Small-Group Tour from Milan

Louis Ella was an excellent guide. The accommodation was ok, although the hotel at Montepulciano left a bit to be desired in customer service

What people love about La Spezia Tours

The tour itself was amazing! A lot of value for money. The tour guide did seem to be a bit annoyed at us at the end when we wanted to get transport back to the hotel, after walking over half a marathon. This is notable considering a few members had lower body injuries/ health concerns. Other than that, I really loved my trip. I made friends for life, memories I’ll cherish for years

mecol was great. went above and beyond

• Italy Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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The Best Tours of La Scala Theatre to Take in 2024 and Why

Ian Sumpter Last Updated: October 12, 2023

La Scala Theatre is hallowed ground for lovers of opera and ballet, and no visit to Milan would be complete witho ut  a visit to this storied venue. But what’s the best way to do it? Here, I lead you through the best tours of La Scala Theatre to take and why.

Pro Tip: Preparing your trip to see da Vinci’s Last Supper ? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it. Also check out our guide to Milan for more planning resources. Our best Last Supper tours for a memorable trip and whether a tour of the Last Supper is worth it .

Should You Book a Tour of La Scala Theatre?

The most famous opera house in Italy and arguably one of the most famous theatres in the world, Teatro Alla Scala, or La Scala as it is often referred to, is one of the must-see sites of Milan.

Open in 1778 with a debut performance of Antonio Salieri’s opera ‘ Europa Riconosciuta’.  In the years since, there have been operatic debuts for pieces by Verdi, Rossini, Verdi, and Puccini, to name a few. 

Today, the theatre remains one of the great operatic and ballet venues. The best way to witness it is to purchase a ticket to a world-class performance, but if tickets are sold out, there is no show when you are in town, or perhaps you want to understand the history and significance of this storied venue, then a tour may be the best option. 

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our free Guide to Milan

The Best Tours of Teatro Alla Scala

For lovers of opera and ballet Teatro Alla Scala is hallowed ground. A visit to Milan would only be complete with a visit to this storied venue. And no visit would be complete without the expert knowledge of a local guide.

La Scala Theatre and Museum Tour in Milan

From Pavarotti to Verdi, the most influential singers and composers have graced the stage of Teatro alla Scala. You can gain privileged access to this storied venue with your local expert guide.

You’ll stroll the luxurious halls. Take in the gilded design and sumptuously upholstered 2000 red seats; if you are lucky, you’ll even catch a warm-up performance.

You’ll learn of rivalries, rising stars, and fallen talents. Hear about the notorious “loggione,” whose patrons have been known to shower boos down on lackluster performances and stop careers in their stride with a single raucous complaint.

After exploring the Theatre, your guide will lead you to the Museo La Scala, where you will explore famous sets, costumes, and instruments.

For the theatre lover, the operatic enthusiast, or the classical aficionado, this is an unmissable opportunity, and one of the best tours of La Scala Theatre on the market today.

Where To Stay in Milan

Milan is a small city with plenty to explore from iconic landmarks to a vibrant art and design scene and old-world charm. Plan where to stay in the best neighborhoods in this beautiful city.

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WWE European Tour Round-Up: Blockbuster Events Held in Italy, Austria & France

T he latest European tour of WWE saw events held in three different countries as the promotion continues to embraces its appeal outside of the U.S. 

The tour, which came mere weeks after a recent tour of the United Kingdom, was part of the promotion's buzz surrounding WWE Backlash: France, the first Premium Live Event in the country's history. 

WWE in Bologna, Italy

The first night of the tour saw the Superstars travel to Italy. The show saw several highlights, including Solo Sikoa break a 41-match losing streak. The former NXT North American Champion teamed with Tama Tonga to defeat Randy Orton & Kevin Owens in what was also Tonga's WWE in-ring debut. After the show's main event, Undisputed WWE Cody Rhodes said he hopes to bring a WWE TV taping to the country. 

The results for the show were as follows: 

• Sami Zayn (c) def. Ludwig Kaiser (Intercontinental Championship)

Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill & Naomi def. Damage CTRL (Asuka, Dakota Kai & Kairi Sane)

• Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga def. LA Knight & Randy Orton

Damian Priest (c) def. Chad Gable and Gunther and Jey Uso (World Heavyweight Championship)

Awesome Truth (R-Truth & The Miz) (c) def. Judgment Day (Finn Balor & JD McDonagh) (World Tag Team Championships)

Becky Lynch (c) def. Nia Jax (WWE Women's World Championship)

Cody Rhodes (c) def. Shinsuke Nakamura (Undisputed WWE Championship)

Related: Cody Rhodes Wants To Bring WWE TV to Italy, Tama Tonga Makes In-Ring Debut

WWE in Vienna, Austria

WWE's next stop on the tour saw the promotion come to Vienna, Austria. This was WWE's first event in the nation since 2019 and unsurprisingly, GUNTHER received a hero's welcome in his homeland. 

• GUNTHER def. Chad Gable

Jey Uso & Awesome Truth (R-Truth & The Miz) def. Judgment Day (Damian Priest, Finn Balor & JD McDonagh)

Related: GUNTHER Vows To Return To Austria As WWE World Champion At Vienna Live Event

WWE SmackDown in France

The penultimate stop on the tour saw WWE finally arrive in Lyon, France for the May 3, episode of WWE SmackDown. This was WWE's first TV taping in the nation's history and saw the Superstars seek to build momentum towards WWE Backlash. 

• Bayley, Naomi, Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill def. Tiffany Stratton and Damage CTRL
• AOP (with Karrion Kross and Scarlett) def. New Catch Republic 
• LA Knight def. Angel
• Austin Theory and Grayson Waller (c) def. The Street Profits (WWE Tag Team Championship)

Related: Record-Setting WWE Crowd Triggers iOS ‘Hearing Loss’ Warning

WWE Backlash France

WWE's tour culminated with Backlash France , the first PLE of its kind in the country. Given the raucous ovation the night prior, expectations were high for the show and once again the WWE Universe inside the LDLC Arena delivered. The show saw surprises and title matches with the WWE Women's Tag Titles changing hands. 

The results of the show were as follows:

• The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga) (with Paul Heyman) def. Kevin Owens and Randy Orton
• Bayley (c) defeated Naomi and Tiffany Stratton (WWE Women's Championship)
• Damian Priest (c) defeated Jey Uso (WWE World Heavyweight Championship)
• Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill defeated The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) (c) (WWE Women's Tag Team Championship)
• Cody Rhodes (c) defeated AJ Styles (Undisputed WWE Championship)

Related: Jessika Carr Makes History As WWE’s First Female To Referee A World Title Main Event

WWE's recent tour has proven to be a hit with audiences as the promotion continues to lean into the 'World' aspect of its name. With Triple H teasing a broadcast event in Italy during the post-Backlash press conference and with PLEs in Europe already announced, expect much more from WWE outside North America. 

Related: WWE Schedule 2024: PPV Dates, Locations and Venues

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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• Trivia Marisa Abela had done most of the singing in this film herself. She trained extensively to mimic Amy Winehouse 's vocals.

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Money latest: These are the most in-demand holiday destinations this year

Welcome back to our Money blog, where we bring you all the latest consumer and personal finance news and tips. This week we're kicking off by talking about holidays (seeing as the sun has finally come out), and we're answering a reader's Money Problem on an undeclared management fee.

Monday 6 May 2024 08:25, UK

• The most in-demand holiday destinations this year
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Aldi remained the cheapest supermarket last month, new analysis shows. 

The retailer has won the crown of cheapest supermarket every month so far this year, according to research by Which?. 

An average basket of 67 popular groceries cost £112.90 - more than £30 cheaper than the most expensive supermarket, Waitrose. 

A basket of comparable items in Waitrose would cost £144.13 on average. 

Here is the breakdown for each supermarket... 

• Aldi - £112.90
• Lidl - £115.23 
• Asda - £126.98
• Tesco - £128.17 
• Sainsbury's - £131.02 
• Morrisons - £134.87 
• Ocado - £136.86 
• Waitrose - £144.13. 

Food price inflation has slowed to 4.5%, its lowest level since February 2022. 

Despite being the most expensive, Waitrose and Ocado were the only grocers to win new shoppers in the first three months of the year, according to research by Kantar. 

Every Monday we get an expert to answer your money problems or consumer disputes. Find out how to submit yours at the bottom of this post. Today's question is...

"My daughter recently bought a flat and has since learnt there is an extra £600 a year management fee that was not declared by the vendor during the sales process. We have been told that the vendor was heavily involved in negotiating the management contract. Can we complain?" J Mills

Serena Amani, managing director at Monarch Solicitors , has this advice...

The general principle when buying a property is "buyer beware", which means the onus is on the buyer to perform their due diligence before contracting to purchase.

The buyer's conveyancing solicitor interrogates the contractual documentation and raises relevant enquiries to ensure the full facts and obligations are available to the buyer to make an informed decision.

In this situation, it appears the seller has failed to disclose the management fee - we assume relating to the services provided to the estate.

We can't give specific advice as we don't have access to the contractual documentation. However, we would suggest:

• To check if the obligation to pay a management fee is set out in the lease if it is a leasehold property, or the transfer deed if it is a freehold property. These documents should contain what services are provided and what the related charges are. The most common scenario is that of a leasehold flat. In this situation the services shall be set out under the service charges section. Generally, there is a provision that allows a management company to charge a management fee as a percentage of the overall service charge bill which is shared among all the leaseholders based on the size of their apartment.
• If the obligation to pay the management fee is in the contract and your conveyancer failed to notify you of this obligation, there is a potential negligence claim against the conveyancer which can be pursued through their complaints process and escalated to the legal ombudsman.
• In the rare instance that the management fee is not stipulated in the contract, then you may wish to contact the management company to obtain certified accounts for the services provided and ask them on what contractual basis they are charging a management fee. Management companies are obliged by statute to provide this information.
• If there is no contractual basis or the fees are unreasonable then you may consider bringing a claim before the property tribunal. The tribunal has the power to make a ruling on the reasonability of the management fees. It should be noted that it can be a long and arduous process and legal fees are not always recoverable even if successful.
• Where a seller has supplied misleading information about a property that materially influenced the decision to purchase the property, this could give rise to a claim for misrepresentation. Likewise, intentional concealment of this information during the sales process could constitute a breach of contract or misrepresentation. 

For more specific advice, you may wish to contact a property lawyer experienced in the conveyancing process and service charge disputes.

This feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about.  Submit your dilemma or consumer dispute via - and please leave your contact details as we cannot follow up consumer disputes without them.

• The form above - make sure you leave a phone number or email address
• Email [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog"
• WhatsApp us  here .

The long-awaited arrival of the sun in the last few days may have got you thinking ahead to the summer... which for many means holidays.

New analysis sent to the Money team has revealed the holiday resorts that Britons have been searching for over the last few months - although it's not a particularly sun-soaked destination that has come out on top.

Amsterdam is the most in-demand holiday destination for the UK, according to a study by Desert Safari Dubai Tours. 

The company looked at Google search data over the past 12 months to find which holiday destinations were most popular in the UK, using terms such as "holidays to", "flights to" and "trips to". 

Some 57,507 searches were carried out each month for trips to Amsterdam. 

The second most in-demand was Dubai , with an average of 52,544 monthly searches. 

Here is the rest of the list...

• New York - 51,169 
• Paris - 43,326 
• Tenerife - 43,305
• Barcelona - 41,664
• Dublin - 38,801
• Gran Canaria - 33,907
• Milan - 28,549
• Istanbul - 28,097

Meanwhile, data from holiday booking site Expedia suggests Britons are chasing the sun over the summer. 

Its trending destination data shows a 50% increase in searches for mainland Greece - while its islands of Santorini and Corfu remain popular. 

Interest is also surging in Mediterranean gem Malta (up 25%), seen as a more affordable destination. 

Searches are also up 50% for Albania , which has seen a surge in interest due to social media. 

The short-haul hotspot of Tunis has seen searches rocket by 130%. 

We're back for another week of consumer news, personal finance tips and all the latest on the economy.

This is how the week in the Money blog is shaping up...

Today : Every week we ask industry experts to answer your Money Problems . Today, a Money blog reader believes they may have been misled when buying their flat - but what can they do?

Tuesday : This week's  Basically...  explains everything you need to know about the Bank of England, ahead of Thursday's base rate decision. 

Wednesday : We speak to the chef at Tom Kerridge's two-starred pub The Hand And Flowers in Buckinghamshire for his Cheap Eats.

Thursday : It's decision day for the Bank of England, and while interest rates are expected to be held at 5.25%, we may learn more about when a cut will come.  Savings Champion  founder Anna Bowes will be back with her weekly insight into the savings market.

Friday : We will be getting the latest GDP figures on this day - which could signal the UK is no longer in recession. Plus, we'll have everything you need to know about the mortgage market this week with the guys from Moneyfacts.

Running every weekday, Money features a morning markets round-up from the  Sky News business team  and regular updates and analysis from our business, City and economic correspondents, editors and presenters -  Ed Conway ,  Mark Kleinman ,  Ian King ,  Paul Kelso  and  Adele Robinson .

You'll also be able to stream  Business Live with Ian King  weekdays at 11.30am and 4.30pm.

Bookmark  news.sky.com/money  and check back from 8am, and through the day, each weekday.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

You filled out the job application, got the call (they're interested, phew!), but now... it's interview day.

If the thought of selling yourself to a stranger brings you out in a cold sweat, you're not alone - but you can help yourself by not making the following common mistakes...

1. Not dressing app ropriately

Paul Webley, managing director of Blaze Media Digital Marketing Agency in Merseyside, says: "If you are coming for an interview in a marketing agency, dress smart. No need to be in a suit. It's cute if you are but just dress how you would expect to dress in the job and, if in doubt, err on the side of being slightly smarter.

"With us, there are loads of photos of the team in the office on the website and socials (which you should have looked at) so there is no excuse."

Tell us your interview mistakes/stories/tips in the comments box

2. Handshake mishaps

Paul's second interview mistake is: "This one is a real pet hate and probably doesn't matter as much in the current world but... learn how to shake a person's hand. You have to do this within every job from time to time.

"There is nothing more off-putting than a limp shake. Having a firm, polite handshake is a basic human skill in business and beyond."

3. Complaining

This is another one from Paul: "We had someone a few months ago tell us that they didn't think they should have to come into the office for an interview. This was for an office-based role. If they don't think it's worth coming in then the job is not going to be for them."

4. Not checking your tech

Tas Ravenscroft, senior consultant at recruitment firm Cherry Pick People , says: "Overlooking details like the interview location or the platform being used (such as Teams), and not testing your tech beforehand, can disrupt the interview process. This is especially crucial as most first interviews are now conducted via video conferencing."

5. Bad mouthing previous employers

Tas says: "We see that candidates sometimes feel too comfortable on interview and decide to talk about their past experiences (if aggrieved) negatively, which is a big NO. Instead, my advice is to focus on the lessons learned and how you've grown from challenges in your career."

6. Not asking questions - or asking about benefits or sick pay policy

Tas says: "There are no right or wrong answers to this, but asking questions at the end of the interview is a big YES. It shows you're interested, engaged and would like the opportunity to either progress or land the role.

"I'd say in your first interview, ask about company culture, day to day tasks, expectations of this role, who's the best performer and why? 

"Questions I'd stay away from are benefit-related questions, or I recently had someone ask what the sick pay policy was like in the first interview… Safe to say they didn't get invited back. If you work with a recruiter, you will have salary and benefits info before, so no need to ask on interview."

7. Not showing enthusiasm

For Mike Carlucci, managing director of Reading-based Italian-food importer  Tenuta Marmorelle , this is a big one: "A lot of people at the moment are applying for everything and anything. They apply for hundreds of jobs.

"The result is that you get applicants who are not enthusiastic or passionate about the role or sector as they see it just as a job. There are few people looking for actual careers at the moment. In our industry, the food industry, you need to have passion and enthusiasm."

8. Talking too much

Andrew MacAskill, founder of Executive Career Jump , says: "Sometimes this is down to nerves, other times it is down to overthinking and often it is due to the questions being too broad, which leads to them saying lots and hoping the right answer is in there somewhere."

Ian Nicholas, global managing director at Reed , says a common slip-up people make is to carry on talking after giving their answer.

"Some interviewers may purposely leave a pause just to see how the interviewee will react under the pressure - so be confident in what you've said and know when you've finished."

9. Under-preparation

Habiba Khatoon, director of Robert Walters UK , says: "This means they haven't researched the company, are unaware of the key aspects of the role they are interviewing for and can't make connections between their CV and experience and the role.

"Most interviewers can easily catch on when a candidate has turned up unprepared and when they do, they can lose interest in that candidate quite quickly."

Italian food importer Mike agrees: "It is so important to spend five minutes to go on to the website, see what the company does, how they started and any general information you can get. This really makes someone stand out from the 100s of applicants."

10. Being late - or too early

James Rowe, managing director of the Recruitment Experts , says: "I would suggest arriving 20 minutes early to give you time to prepare, but don't walk through the door too soon! Turning up five to 10 minutes prior to your interview start time shows you're punctual but won't rush the hiring manager… they need breaks too!"

By Brad Young , Money team

Almost half of Britons (45%) subscribe to two or more streaming services, according to comparison website Finder, but box office figures show the theatre-going experience is making a comeback. 

The pendulum is swinging back from streaming-first to theatre-first releases, and streaming platforms like Amazon and Apple are making moves on to the big screen with the likes of Saltburn and American Fiction, or Killers of the Flower Moon and Napoleon. 

That means movie-lovers are facing a conundrum, according to a senior media analyst: should they prioritise spending cash on trips to the cinema or on streaming if they want to see the biggest and best movies? 

"People are making decisions on 'what am I going to allocate to the movie theatre experience, what am I going to allocate to streaming?'" Paul Dergarabedian, of Comscore, told the Money blog.

Cinema's revival is real, according to Philip Clapp, chief executive of the UK Cinema Association. 

"Certainly the major US studios see the theatrical experience, the big screen experience, as where they want their major films to be and then benefitting from the promotional buzz that comes from that," Mr Clapp said. 

Disney chief executive Bob Iger said last year that theatrically released films were "great sub drivers".

"We benefit greatly from the power of our great films, they drive so much engagement and so much interest in our platforms," he said, pointing to Moana, Marvel, Star Wars and Avatar.

Mr Clapp added this year was a "key stepping stone" to an offering similar to before the pandemic, but cinema wouldn't be back to full strength until next year.

In the pandemic, studios experimented with straight-to-streaming releases, which continued even after restrictions fell away.

Mr Dergarabedian said: "When the pandemic hit it was a real stress test on the industry because a lot of people thought theatrical was dying on the vine and that it would be going away at some point in the near future - and then the pandemic accelerated that demise in the minds of some."

But audiences have voted with their feet and instructed studios they want more variety: international films, stadium concert films, videogame adaptations, prestige films and horrors.

Smile, a Paramount horror movie on a $17m budget that could have been straight-to-streaming, had a "great result" at the box office, said Mr Dergarabedian, as did Five Nights at Freddy's. 

Low and mid-budget movies have been the slowest to recover but are returning to the big screen, making the theatre offering more diverse this year, Mr Clapp added.

Mr Dergarabedian said Universal's "diverse portfolio" was the one to beat: it spent the last year putting out everything from action films like Fast X, prestige movies like Oppenheimer, animations like Migration and some spookier offerings too.

Going theatrical still comes with a risk, the analyst said. A flop on the big screen leaves studios with a big hit to their bottom line, having spent large amounts on distribution and marketing. 

But films "tend to have more value" once they arrive on a streaming platform if they were released in cinemas first, including lower budget movies.

Each week, Money blog readers share their thoughts on the subjects we've been covering, and over the past seven days your correspondence has been dominated by these topics...

Brexit rule changes

• Our feature on manifesting
• The prospect of disability payments becoming vouchers

Britons could face higher food prices, and even empty supermarket shelves, as new post-Brexit border fees were introduced this week, industry figures warned.

These comments - while perhaps not representative of the whole country - are definitely reflective of the majority view in our inbox...

It's almost like Brexit was a terrible idea… To think our politicians would do anything but make things worse was beyond naive. People let their prejudice override common sense that most politicians look out for themselves and not the country's best interests… Joe

Others suggested the government should be turning its eyes to the issue rather than elsewhere...

Food prices rise even though they told us they would fall and yet the priority is sending asylum seekers to Rwanda. Isn't it about time the UK started to listen to people's problems rather than a very loud minority? Lee

Several people suggested the solution was growing all our own food - which is often talked about, but producers and importers point out the UK climate makes it less achievable to mass produce certain foods at a low cost than in southern Europe.

Disability vouchers?

Reports this week suggested disabled people could receive vouchers instead of monthly payments under proposed government changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

The story resulted in a backlash among our commenters... 

Absolutely barking mad. Disabilities aren't an option. Can't be fixed with words. And can happen to anyone at anytime. Time to get a grip. Rob

Others suggested it was a symptom of a wider failure within the system...

I don't know how the government can take away vital PIP money and say they can replace it with better mental health support. My daughter is waiting for a PIP assessment and also an assessment for ADHD - the latter's wait time is currently four years. Matmac33

Can you 'manifest' financial success? 

Moving to our manifesting feature, which prompted a lot of cynicism. If you haven't read it yet, you can do so  here ... 

Some of our readers are believers... 

I manifest things in my life. Be it money, people or events I've had dreams about, there's more magic in the universe than most people know of. Steve

I believe in manifestation in terms of positive thinking. You'll never get anywhere if you're always assuming the worst. But you do have to put the leg work in for what you want, it won't fall in to your lap. Jim Carrey didn't get that £10m acting job sitting under a tree! Caroline D

Others, well, not so much...

Why are you giving space to this specious guff manifestation? Does it work for the poverty-stricken, starving millions without basic infrastructure and education, or those suffering in warzones across the world? I wonder what they want "manifesting" in their lives? FM1

"Manifesting", what a load of rubbish! I can't believe this is one of the top stories on Sky News. David

And finally, in our weekly round-up of your comments...

This comment section is a COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME. Sky NEVER publishes its readers' views. John Hammond

The next week in Money is likely to be dominated by interest rates - with the Bank of England's latest base rate decision coming on Thursday .

A cut from the current 16-year high of 5.25% is extremely unlikely, as inflation is yet to reach the Bank's 2% target.

Markets had forecast a first cut in June but are now pricing in August, with only two cuts now expected in 2024 rather than three.

There had been hope the base rate would dip to 3% next year - but again, these forecasts are now on ice.

As we outlined in our new weekly mortgage update yesterday, high street lenders have responded by moving their rates upwards ...

Mortgage approvals rose to 61,300 in March - the highest number since September 2022. But while on the face of it this looks positive for the housing market, industry experts are reporting that uncertainty over the direction of interest rates is prompting renewed caution.

Hina Bhudia, partner at Knight Frank Finance, said: "The sun is out and buyers are returning from their Easter break, so we'd usually expect these to be the busy weeks before the summer; however, the uncertain outlook for mortgage rates will undoubtedly weigh on activity.

"It's not just buyers that are frustrated. The lenders are eager to rebuild their businesses after a subdued 2023; however, they are constrained by stubborn inflation and the resulting impact on their cost of funding."

The influential OECD this week said now was not the time for the UK to be considering cutting rates - which is bad news for mortgage holders, but may be positive for savers.

The organisation anticipates inflation will be "elevated" at 3.3% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025 - above the Bank's 2% target.

And it claims the UK will grow more slowly next year than any other major advanced economy.

It puts this down to stealth taxes and high interest rates squeezing the economy.

The organisation, which is based in Paris, downgraded its forecasts for GDP to 0.4% this year and 1% in 2025.

In February, the UK had been in the middle of the rankings with forecast growth of 0.7% this year and 1.2% next.

Away from the economy, RAC has put out figures today showing that both petrol and diesel have gone up by 10p per litre so far this year, adding £5.50 to the price of filling up a car.

Oil prices rose during April, sending an average litre of unleaded up 3p to 149.95p, while diesel rose by 2p to 157.76p.

The lowest prices for petrol and diesel so far this year were both recorded on 16 January – 139.7p and 147.6p respectively.

The good news is that, as tensions between Israel and Iran have defused, the oil price has crept back down, meaning some of the recent hikes may soon be reversed.

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

A cash ISA offering an interest rate of 4.5% has been launched today by Melton Building Society .

The interest is paid annually on 31 March and can be added to the account, transferred to your bank account or transferred to an existing Melton savings account.

Here's what you need to know...

How do you open an account?

• You must be a UK resident and be aged 16; 
• Accounts can be opened with a minimum amount of £25 and the maximum that can be held in this account is £500,000.

Can you withdraw money?

Yes, you can withdraw money as long as you give the bank 180 days' notice in branch, by post or phone

Once you have done this, all or part of the investments in the ISA, including any interest earned, will be transferred to you.

You can also access your money without giving notice, but you will be charged 180 days' interest on the amount you withdraw. 

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