Rob and I had a great time! We were in the very organized and capable hands of Mauro, who shepherded us from one fabulous place to another. It was eye candy heaven for making photographs. Randy is an excellent teacher, who was always available to give his expertise and advice while we were “on assignment”. He was kind but instructive while reviewing our homework and I always felt encouraged by his remarks. Gabriele joined halfway through and very capably took over Mauro’s duties when needed. Gabriele was also very patient with photography instructions and advice, and gave wonderful ideas for places to visit after our workshop. I would recommend Italy Workshops to anyone interested in improving their photographic skills and to do that in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Elizabeth & Rob Powers

We recently completed the Lakes Tour of Italy with Italy Workshops and we are happy to report that everything exceeded our expectations. Mauro and Randy were excellent tour leaders and guides. The itinerary, hotels, transportation, food, excursions, and photo workshops were all awesome. We loved the smaller group sizes and more relaxed travel style. It was nice to have time to explore on our own. The hotels in Lenno and Orta were in great locations and offered a full service experience. The photography aspect of the tour included assignments and follow up workshops to go over our photographs. Randy did an excellent job of providing guidance to improve my photography skills. I also learned from the other participants in the workshop. We highly recommend taking a tour with Italy Workshops. We look forward to taking another tour next year. Debbie and Vito Calianno

The workshop was a great opportunity to improve image making. In general the accommodations were good. The hotel in Lenno was first rate. The hotel in Orta was not great, but we don’t know what alternatives were available— it looked like none. The dinners/lunches provided were fine.. Randy, Mauro, and Gabriel were wonderful to work with.

I still don’t know how they manage it, but the seven-day September, 2026 Lake Garda photography tour offered by Italy Photo Workshops successfully blends regional history, local cuisine, and photographic opportunities for a comprehensive experience of the Verona and Lago di Garda area. The winning combination of Tour Director, Mauro Riva, and Photography Instructor, Mattia Bonavida, make it happen. Mauro attends to every minute detail of your stay, from activities designed to enhance the adventure, to the very best authentic food and wine, to the most comfortable area lodging, with a few (OK, maybe more than a few!) laughs along the way. Mattia is a wizard with camera and software; well-versed in all digital systems, including smart phone technology; and his photo critique sessions are absolutely invaluable. Overall, a great choice for photographers of all levels, offering a professional touch, a comfortable, family atmosphere, and, of course, the all-important eye contact whenever toasting!

This is my third time with Italy Photo Workshops and I guess that’s saying something already. I did the Lakes, Sicily and now Lake Garda. I cannot overstate the professionalism which is totally top level although you only feel the amazing itinerary, fun and lightheartedness of a true adventure. Great photography lessons by some of the best and all I know is I keep going back because each time my ability to take great photos goes up exponentially. Lake Garda was chock full of activities, different villages and experiences… by the way, choice of restaurants and hotels was top. I’m not hesitating to book my next workshop and I see so many return photographers who have now become friends. Drake , Mauro and Matteo were above and beyond. Highly recommended experience!!!