Small group journeys in Perugia and across Italy rooted in food, wine, and the rhythm of local life.
At Via del Vino, we open the doors to the Italy we now call home— introducing you to the people, places and traditions that shape our everyday lives. From our life in Perugia to the regions we return to again and again, you won’t just visit the tried-and-true Italy. You will experience the Italy where life unfolds slowly. The one shaped by long lunches, familiar faces and traditions that quietly endure.
Where food and wine are part of something larger—conversation, culture, connection. Somewhere between the first glass and the last, you stop feeling like a visitor.
You’re simply here, among friends.
There’s a different way to travel in Italy — quieter, more personal, and shaped by the people we know and trust. It isn’t measured by how much you see, but by how deeply you experience it.
Guided with insight and shaped by local relationships.
Intimate journeys designed for connection, not crowds.
There’s the Perugia you pass through and the one you’re invited into. Ours begins where daily life unfolds: in the historic center, along quiet streets, familiar doorways, and in the places we know well. Spend time with us at a slower pace through streets, flavors, and encounters that make a city feel personal.
From the green heart of Umbria to the sunlit landscapes of Puglia and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, each itinerary is shaped by the people we know and the places we return to.
We didn’t set out to build a tour company. We simply continued doing what we’ve always done—welcoming people into our lives.
We both grew up in big families where the door was always open and there was always room for one more at the table. That spirit followed us from the US to Italy, where we’ve created a life in Perugia rooted in friendships, shared meals and daily rituals.
When you travel with us, it doesn’t feel like a program. It feels like being a part of our Italian life. And we take care of you the same way we always have—with warmth, attention and a genuine sense of hospitality.
When you travel with Via del Vino, arrive curious, hungry, and ready to slow down. We take care of every detail. Our guests say it better than we ever could.
I was fortunate to participate in one of Sue’s small group tours based out of Perugia. It was an incredible trip and one that I’ve spoken about often. I had never taken a tour like this and would highly recommend it! Sue took us into her world for 7 short but action-packed days and had us feeling like we lived in Perugia. We visited a number of historical towns, participated in cooking classes, wine tastings at vineyards and experienced activities such as truffle hunting and cheese making while we toured Umbria during the week. Each days’ activities were clearly researched to ensure they would be authentic experiences for us. I would highly recommend Via Del Vino for a fantastic food and wine experience!
Richard was an excellent host and tour guide with a font of information on the Perugia Historic centre and on the food and drinks we were served at the various tastings at the lovely and interesting venues we visited. Highly recommend you take this tour as it provides way more than just food tastings which were also very generous. Thanks for the fabulous hospitality Richard it added another layer of memories for us to take away and share with others. Perugia was well worth a visit and extended stay.
The tour was wonderful and our guide Pietrina was exceptional! She connected the food, the history and culture in an entertaining and lovely way. That would be expected from a good tour guide, but Pietrina was particularly friendly, and genuinely excited to show us her city. Her enthusiasm was infectious. It was clear that she loves Perugia, loves her job and loves to share an authentic experience. That is beyond a good guide, and what made this exceptional for us. We look forward to coming back to Perugia for a longer stay.
Susan and her team are amazing. She made everything so easy. I booked a wine tasting and lunch from Australia with her for my sisters’ hens. It was so incredibly easy. I would recommend her to anyone. She makes going to Umbria so easy! Alessandro was our tour guide and he was absolutely amazing!!!
Me, my husband and our two millennial offspring joined Sue’s journey through the magical region of Puglia. It’s not an exaggeration to say that this was one of the most memorable travel experiences I have had, and I’ve had very many. Sue finds unusual authentic aspects of wherever she takes us and whatever we do. She introduced us to local people who served as ambassadors for the local history, food, culture and wine. Each day topped the one before it!
The trip was bespoke from start to finish for each and every member of Sue’s group. My family enjoyed sharing daily (hourly!) adventures through this fascinating and gorgeous region. This was my fourth time in Italy and I’m already dreaming of returning for another adventure with Via del Vino! Thanks for the lifelong memories, Sue!
From my home in Perugia, I write about the Italy I live every day— the food, wine, local traditions, village festivals, the places I know and the ones I’m discovering. You won’t find “must-see” lists here, but the details that shape everyday life.
If you’re curious about Italy beyond the surface, this is where I share it.
