Luxury Escapes has launched two new Signature Series tours to two of Europe’s most popular culinary destinations, Spain and Italy in 2026. The trips’ introduction comes off the back of recent Luxury Escapes travel trends data revealing Italy and Spain are among the top five European countries Australians plan to visit in 2026.
Luxury Escapes’ 2025 bookings show Italy up 70% and Spain 30% in TTV, with significant growth in both destinations.
Research shows Australians are sophisticated food lovers, with 42% choosing “fine dining” as one of the indulgences that they would like to be treated to during their holidays so Michelin dining features as tour highlights.
Former MasterChef judges and TV personalities, Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan will host two Signature Series tours back-to-back, 12 days tapas testing their way around Spain, from Barcelona to Madrid, followed by 11 days in Italy, starting in Rome and ending in Milan.
The Spain tour features a paella cooking class and churros tasting in Madrid, while the Italy tour includes foodie golf-cart tours through the cobbled streets of Rome and a visit to the iconic Dario’s famous butcher shop.
“Our Signature Series tours have been the fastest selling product we’ve ever had,” says Adam Schwab, Luxury Escapes Co-Founder and CEO.
“Our members absolutely love the behind-the-scenes access to incredible talent like Matt and Gary who personally design the itinerary and experiences. Plus, with everything done for you, it’s a stress free way to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Schwab adds.
Long-time lovers of Italian and Spanish cuisine, Preston and Mehigan have travelled extensively throughout Spain and Italy, including a recent two-week reconnaissance visit to design the Signature Series itinerary.
The Spain Signature Series Tour will depart on 23 August 2026 and is priced from $17,499* per person. The Italy tour will depart Rome on 8 September 2026 and is priced from $15,499* per person.
Both tours are inclusive of all internal transfers, luxury accommodation, behind-the-scenes guided tours, select meals, and exclusive access to culinary experiences designed and personally hosted by Preston and Mehigan.
