Italy is famous for the green rolling hills and sun-soaked towns that dot its beautiful countryside. To get the complete Italian experience away from crowded tourist hotspots like Rome and Venice, you’ll want to explore its rural beaches and volcanic landscapes. Our guide will help you discover the best activities and sights available on your Italian vacation this year.
Embark on Walking Holidays in Italy
Self-guided walking holidays in Italy offer the chance to discover rich, diverse landscapes. The Appennine Hills stretch across the country, with a lush, wooded area near Bologna. Be sure to stop at its quaint medieval villages across its walking trails to discover Italy’s hidden gems.
The Dolomites, nestled in the northern Italian Alps, feature dramatic peaks and lush valleys that create a staggering backdrop for your hike. They feature an extensive network of well-trodden paths to suit all levels of walkers, whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a serious challenge.
Explore the Villages of the Amalfi Coast
If you venture beyond the Amalfi Coast’s more popular tourist spots, you’ll discover towns like Atrani, Ravello, and Praiano that offer authentic experiences with their narrow streets and historic architecture. Atrani is within walking distance of the Amalfi Coast’s namesake and is world-renowned for its excellent local cuisine. It’s also thought to be the birthplace of the lemon-based liqueur Limoncello.
Ravello, a short bus ride from Amalfi, has a relaxed seaside atmosphere with spectacular views. Praiano is perfect if you seek tranquillity and a chance to connect with nature. Thanks to its geographical position, its beaches are light until sunset, making it an ideal location for a romantic evening on the beach.
Participate in Truffle Hunting in Umbria
Truffle hunting is an ancient tradition in Umbria that began in the 15th century. Umbrians live in one of the best regions for hunting truffles, which they historically called tartùfro, or “scented stone.”
Guided by local experts and trained dogs, you can experience the age-old tradition of truffle hunting in Umbria’s dense forests. You’ll gain insight into these culinary treasures’ important role in regional gastronomy from centuries of tradition handed down from generation to generation.
Stay in Agriturismos in Tuscany
Agriturismos are Italian working farms that offer accommodation, combining agricoltura (agriculture) and turismo (tourism). They’re an ideal way of experiencing authentic rural Italian life, providing a hands-on understanding of local traditions. You can choose from farmhouses, rural estates, or country inns, whatever appeals to you most.
During the industrialisation of the post-World War II period, many Italian farmers moved to cities, leaving their farms behind. The Italian government realised this could harm their beloved food traditions, so they passed legislation in 1985 to provide funds for farm estates willing to convert to accommodation. Many farmers became innkeepers, introducing tourists from all over the world to rural Italian life.
Staying at an agriturismo in Tuscany provides the chance to live in La Dolce Vita. Participate in olive picking, wine tasting, and traditional cooking classes to immerse yourself in a traditional lifestyle in the green Tuscan countryside.
