a taste of what’s ahead
From the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna to the kitchens, cellars and tables that define the region, each day of Capitano & Friends is designed to offer a new way to experience the region’s food, culture and people. Throughout the journey, Chef Stefano Secchi and his friends will be right there alongside you, cooking, tasting, exploring and sharing the experiences that make this region so special. Here's a glimpse at what awaits.
The itinerary & culinary experiences are subject to change. Experiences and programming below are a preview of the week, as we continue to curate.
October 16
Welcome to Emilia-Romagna
Arrive at Palazzo di Varignana and settle in before gathering for our first evening together. Chef Stefano Secchi and the Palazzo di Varignana culinary team will welcome guests with a dinner celebrating the region and introducing the artisans, farmers and producers we'll encounter throughout the week. The evening will spotlight Emilia-Romagna's "Holy Trinity": Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma and traditional aceto balsamico.
October 17
The Land & Its Makers
Go behind the scenes at a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, where we'll meet the casaro, experience the centuries-old cheesemaking process firsthand and taste Parmigiano at different stages of aging. From there, we'll gather for lunch at a local agriturismo before returning to Palazzo di Varignana. As evening falls, we'll come together for an open-fire dinner inspired by the rustic cooking traditions of the region.
October 18
The Living Table
Spend the day discovering Bologna through its history, markets and, of course, its food. We'll eat our way through the city, tasting regional favorites from tortellini in brodo and gnocco fritto to gelato and more, followed by time to shop and explore on your own.
As the sun goes down, Club Emilia comes to life: regional bites, flowing Lambrusco, vinyl beats and the kind of late-night energy that makes you want to stay for one more glass.
October 19
Hands at the Table
Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on experience celebrating the traditions, ingredients and people behind Emilia-Romagna's extraordinary food culture. Through cooking, conversation and connection, we'll explore the philosophy behind Tend the Table and the importance of preserving the land and traditions that nourish us.
That evening, Capitano & Friends joins Italia Squisita for a one-of-a-kind tasting event bringing together 20 acclaimed Italian chefs for an evening celebrating the very best of Italian cuisine.
October 20
What Grows In Varignana
Our final day begins on the land surrounding Palazzo di Varignana, where nearly 2,000 hectares are dedicated to vineyards, olive groves and agriculture. Guests will experience the estate's award-winning extra virgin olive oil and wines before gathering for a beautifully curated lunch overlooking the vines and rolling hills.
That evening, the week culminates with the Capitano & Friends Gala, an unforgettable celebration of the people, traditions and flavors that define Emilia-Romagna. In a one-night-only collaboration, Chef Stefano Secchi and the week's guest chefs come together to create an extraordinary multi-course dining experience, followed by music, dancing and a final celebration in support of Tend the Table Foundation.
October 21
Arrivederci
Enjoy a final breakfast at Palazzo di Varignana before departing at your leisure, taking a little piece of Emilia-Romagna home with you.
Make it your own
For guests looking to explore beyond the culinary itinerary, a limited number of optional experiences may be available throughout the week, including a curated Ferrari experience in Maranello, spa and wellness offerings, and more.
Your stay at Capitano AND friends
Join us for five unforgettable nights at Palazzo di Varignana, with accommodations, daily breakfast and the full Capitano & Friends experience included. Packages accommodate up to two guests sharing one room and include access to all scheduled dining experiences, excursions and programming featured throughout the week.
CLASSIC ROOM PACKAGE
$11,000
Five Nights · up to 2 Guests
Your home for the week in one of Palazzo di Varignana's beautifully appointed Classic Rooms.
INCLUDES
Five nights accommodations for up to two guests
Daily breakfast
All scheduled Capitano & Friends culinary experiences and events
Curated excursions and activities featured in the itinerary
Transportation to and from scheduled off-property experiences
Welcome amenities and special surprises throughout the week
SUITE PACKAGE
$14,000
Five Nights · up to 2 Guests
Elevate your stay with one of Palazzo di Varignana's spacious suites, offering additional room and comfort throughout the week.
Includes
The complete Capitano & Friends experience outlined above.
Limited suites available
50% non-refundable deposit required at booking
Travel
Package pricing accommodates up to two guests. Airfare and transportation to and from Palazzo di Varignana are not included. Optional experiences, spa treatments, food and beverage and activities outside of the scheduled itinerary may be available for an additional cost.