AUTUMN HOLIDAYS IN ITALY

WHERE TO GO IN AUTUMN IN ITALY

An autumn holiday in Italy feels like a secret you’re finally in on. With the summer crowds behind you, the countryside’s rolling hills bring out the best in a way that feels both intimate and dazzling. Embrace the slow, laid-back rhythm of the season, and celebrate the very soul of Italy by indulging in delectable seasonal foods while sipping a perfectly paired glass of local wine. The crisp but mild air invites you to slip on your hiking boots for unhurried hikes and picture-perfect moments in the golden autumn foliage or to cycle through olive groves and quiet lanes. Set off on an autumn escape to Italy’s cities, where each step brings you closer to breathtaking architecture glowing in warm, golden light. Or journey to secluded medieval villages, hunting for enchanting castles and uncovering stories of centuries past.

#1 EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF FINDING TRUFFLES, OR TAKE PART IN THE REWARDING WORK OF A GRAPE HARVEST IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Bathed in the warm glow of golden hues, the countryside beckons as the perfect autumn escape. In Apulia, visit olive oil farms where ancient presses and centuries-old mills invite you to savour the first press of olive oil, drizzled over crusty bread or paired with cheese. In Piedmont, embark on a truffle hunt through quiet woods, laughing and learning along the way, before sitting down to a truffle-themed meal that brings the region’s culinary traditions to life. Indulge in a sparkling wine adventure in Franciacorta, where family-owned wineries welcome you to discover Italy’s finest bubbles, savouring the craftsmanship behind every sip. In Valpolicella, roll up your sleeves and harvest the best grapes from the vines, feeling the artistry that goes into each bottle—a tradition that has shaped this land for generations.

#2 GEAR UP FOR SCENIC CYCLING RIDES OR EXPERIENCE THE WARM HOSPITALITY IN THE MOUNTAINS

In the mountains, the quiet of the season brings a rare calm, making it the perfect autumn retreat. Get active in the Italian Alps and breathe in the crisp autumn air while hiking or cycling along trails lined with orange and golden leaves. Unwind in mountain huts, savouring local specialities for a cuddling moment of well-deserved relaxation. Venture off the beaten track in Tuscany, heading to Mount Amiata to try your hand at chestnut harvesting. Escape the daily routine and bring home, quite literally, the fruits of your labour. Discover the marvels of the Friulian Dolomites and immerse yourself in the magic of the Carnia region, connecting deeply with local traditional crafts like woodcarving and weaving, or delighting your taste buds with excellent cjarsons.

#3 Get emotional during an opera performance or dive into the rich flavours of Italy's Food Valley, exploring culinary excellence

An autumn getaway in Italy’s cities offers a perfect harmony of culture, art, history, and food. Milan invites you to discover its chic charm and vibrant energy, from admiring the stately Duomo and strolling through the halls of the Pinacoteca di Brera, to capping off the day with a passionate opera performance at La Scala Theatre. Visit Venice without the crowds for a truly magical experience, enjoying peaceful canals and relishing the stunning architecture of the Doge’s Palace while diving into the fascinating history of the Serenissima. Celebrate some of Italy’s most iconic food products by venturing to the Food Valley—the heart of Italian gastronomy. For a unique culinary experience, stop in Parma to visit a traditional ham producer or head to Modena for a tour of an acetaia and indulge in tasting diverse varieties of balsamic vinegar. For a truly emotional experience, witness the birth of a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wheel in Reggio Emilia.

#4 ENCOUNTER ITALY'S GENUINE ESSENCE AND STROLL THROUGH NARROW STONE STREETS IN THE COUNTRY'S TIMELESS VILLAGES

Let your autumn holiday transport you through the centuries as you explore small towns and villages that preserve authentic, historic charm. Stroll or cycle along the ancient walls of Lucca, taking in the breathtaking Tuscan landscape, or dive into the comic and gaming extravaganza at the Lucca Comics Festival. Venture into Umbria and explore the cultural and spiritual vibrancy of Assisi, where Roman traces and medieval lanes reveal the layers of history that have shaped the town. For an authentic off-the-beaten-path escape, head to Renaissance Urbino tucked away in the rolling hills of Le Marche. Step into Raphael’s birthplace, discover exquisite handmade crafts at local shops, or hit reset in a rustic trattoria, delighting your palate with regional specialities.

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