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“Travel is about learning, growing, sharing,” says Marco Lombardi, a veteran tour manager who’s led groups through Italy’s hidden valleys for over twenty years.
He’s been with Italy Explorer Tours since 2003, navigating everything from the marble streets of Florence to the wind‑blown cliffs of Cinque Terre. I spent three days in Rome last summer and the food scene completely blew me away, but the real magic happened on Lombardi’s day‑trip to the medieval town of Orvieto, where every stone seemed to whisper history.
And because he believes travel should be a two‑way street, Lombardi trains his guides to ask tourists about their own cultures, turning a standard sightseeing itinerary into a lively exchange. “When a traveler from Japan asks about the meaning behind a fresco, I learn something new too,” he explains.
But the job isn’t all gelato and gondolas. The pandemic forced Italy Explorer Tours to cancel half of its 2020 season, leaving Lombardi scrambling to keep his staff afloat. He pivoted to virtual tours, streaming live walks through the Tuscan hills—an idea that generated $12,000 in revenue and kept the brand alive. That pivot taught him a hard lesson: flexibility beats any fixed schedule.
“Travel is about learning, growing, sharing.” — Marco Lombardi
Because of that mindset, Lombardi now bundles a “local‑life” segment into every tour, inviting guests to join a family’s dinner in a small Apulian village. The experience costs an extra $85 per person, but guests say it’s worth every cent. Not worth the hype? Absolutely not.
So what should travelers expect when booking a Lombardi‑led tour? First, expect a 7‑day itinerary that starts in Milan, spends three nights in the lakes region, then moves south to Naples, ending with a sunset cruise on the Amalfi Coast. Prices start at $1,950 per person, flights not included. The package includes daily breakfasts, two wine tastings, and a private guide who speaks English, Spanish, and French.
And if you’re budgeting, check out our budget travel deal alert for a $450 round‑trip flight to Rome from Chicago this fall. A total nightmare? Not with Lombardi’s insider tips.
Because safety remains a top concern, Lombardi ensures every bus meets EU safety standards, and he provides a printable health checklist. The checklist is also on the company’s website, alongside a list of accessible hotels for travelers with mobility needs.
Travel Tips from Marco Lombardi
- Book regional trains early; discounts are available up to 30%.
- Carry a reusable water bottle—most fountains in Italy are safe to drink.
- Learn one phrase in Italian each day; locals love the effort.
The Bottom Line
If you crave more than postcard photos, Lombardi’s tours deliver cultural immersion, personal growth, and a chance to teach and be taught. His philosophy turns every trip into a classroom without the boring lectures. The best part? You’ll leave Italy with stories that last a lifetime.
For a deeper dive into Italy’s hidden gems, see Lonely Planet’s guide here. And don’t miss our travel hacks 44 Must‑Know Hacks From Wirecutter’s Journalists to make your journey smoother.
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