Autumn is undoubtedly one of the best times to travel, and doing so in Italy is magical. Autumn is a season when nature bursts into a triumph of colors, the air becomes fresher, and cities take on a special charm. The summer chaos is now a memory, and the milder temperatures allow you to enjoy breathtaking views from the north to the south of the peninsula, not to mention the gastronomic delights typical of this season.
Let’s discover together the must-visit destinations for this season, places we’ve visited in the past during our tours and highly recommend, from relaxing in the Tuscan hills to adventures in the Dolomite forests, and even visiting historic villages steeped in fairy-tale atmospheres.
- The Langhe, Piedmont
We begin with one of the quintessential autumn destinations: the Langhe. Located between the provinces of Cuneo and Asti, the Langhe owes much of its fame to its vineyards, which in the autumn season are bathed in extraordinary golden, red, and orange hues. Autumn in the Langhe is also the time of grape harvests and wine tastings, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco, two of Italy’s most renowned wines. To combine nature and good wine, a weekend in the Langhe is probably one of the best destinations. - Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
We move further south and change regions to Tuscany, where we find Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most characteristic places in central Italy, with its hills and small medieval villages. In autumn, the Tuscan countryside transforms into a palette of colors, turning this place into a magnificent painting. Pienza, Montalcino, and San Quirico d’Orcia are just a few of the villages to visit in autumn, to discover nature and, once again, taste the renowned local products, especially wines and cheeses. - Casentinesi Forest National Park, Tuscany-Emilia Romagna
Staying in Tuscany (on the border with Emilia Romagna), we explore a place for true nature lovers, the Casentinesi Forest National Park. This park is famous for its beech forests that, in autumn, turn red and yellow, creating a postcard-perfect panorama. It is an ideal destination for those who love trekking in nature, discovering waterfalls, and visiting hidden monasteries like the Camaldoli Hermitage. - Cinque Terre, Liguria
On our journey through the must-visit autumn destinations, we head to Liguria to discover the Cinque Terre. A destination that is highly appreciated in summer, but autumn offers the perfect opportunity to visit with more tranquility, enjoying the mild climate and warm colors that envelop these five picturesque villages. The autumn light makes the terraced vineyards on the cliffs overlooking the sea and the pastel-colored houses that characterize this stretch of Ligurian coast even more enchanting. - Lake Braies, Trentino-Alto Adige
We now head to the mountains for one of the most photographed places in the Dolomites: Lake Braies. In recent years, Lake Braies has become one of Italy’s most famous lakes (thanks in part to a successful TV series), and in autumn it is even more enchanting, with the colors of the surrounding forests reflecting extraordinary light on the water’s surface. It is the perfect spot for relaxing walks, excursions, and admiring nature. - Matera, Basilicata
From the Dolomites, we move much further south to reach Matera, the city of the Sassi, a splendid place in every season, but in autumn it takes on a special atmosphere. The cooler temperatures allow you to explore the ancient streets of this city carved into the rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, without tiring. Autumn is also the perfect time to taste the typical flavors of Basilicata, such as “peperoni cruschi,” Matera bread, and Aglianico wine. - Umbria: Assisi and Spello
In the middle of the Italian peninsula, we find Umbria, the green heart of Italy, a destination that is at its best in autumn. Among the places we recommend are Assisi, the city of Saint Francis, for its mix of spirituality, art, and nature, while just a few kilometers away is Spello, with its flower-lined streets and Roman walls, a village to discover especially during the cool autumn days. - Amalfi Coast
Moving to the west coast of Italy, we arrive on the Amalfi Coast, mostly known as a summer holiday destination, but it is, in our opinion, a great autumn destination as well. Villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello become quieter, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking sea views, strolls among lemon groves, and the flavors of local cuisine at a slower pace. The weather is still pleasant, perfect for those who enjoy milder temperatures. - Lake Como, Lombardy
If Lake Braies has gained fame in recent years, another lake has a much longer history: Lake Como, an elegant and charming destination all year round, but in autumn it takes on a special allure. The historic villas overlooking the lake, surrounded by gardens, are painted with unique colors, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle. It’s the ideal time for a boat trip or a stroll through the villages along the lake, like Bellagio and Varenna. - The Dolomites
For those who love the mountains but not skiing and winter sports, the best time to visit the Dolomites is certainly autumn, where nature and sports can be combined. The foliage, along with the majestic peaks, creates postcard-like scenery, and there are numerous trekking paths that allow you to admire the beauty of the region. There are also plenty of opportunities to savor typical mountain dishes, like knödel and polenta.