Italy in autumn: what to do, from grape harvest to events

Autumn in Italy is an enchanting sensory experience. It is the perfect time to immerse oneself in nature and savour the fruits of the earth, enhancing their flavours with traditional or innovative recipes. It reveals another side of an Italy that, in autumn, far from the chaos of summer, invites you to discover hidden corners and itineraries aimed at relaxation and new activities.

When does autumn begin? The equinox occurs between 21 and 24 September, always at different times, due to the different length of the calendar and solar year. But it is precisely during these days that you should start planning autumn excursions in Italy, to fully appreciate the autumn mood and explore the hidden gems in our country.

Towards the end of summer, Italy dresses itself in warm autumn colours, an irresistible invitation for those seeking unforgettable experiences. Amidst golden vineyards, forests that glow with a thousand shades and villages that come alive with age-old traditions, autumn in Italy is a true spectacle for the senses. This season offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, savour the typical products of each region, and discover the rich cultural heritage of our country.

From mountain trails to medieval villages, from wine tastings to autumn festivals, the possibilities are endless. Have you ever dreamed of participating in a grape harvest? Or of strolling through the foliage-coloured woods? Fall season in Italy is the perfect time to make your wishes come true. Let's discover together what to do to make the most of this magical season and appreciate all the events offered by autumn in Italy.

The grape harvest in Italy  is not only an important event for the start of wine production. In all homes where there are vineyards, it is a time when the whole family gathers to pick grapes and celebrate. Lunch is eaten together and everyone dresses in the shoes of the farmer. In many wineries, there is still the custom of crushing the grapes with one's feet or having the children do it. Even on wine farms, everyone is normally involved in the grape harvest, not only the farm workers but also the families. The grape harvest is work, therefore, but also a kind of big party. This event is often also open to Italian and foreign tourists, and in every Italian region side events are organised to allow this experience to be lived to the full. You can experience the event first hand, helping to harvest the grapes, or taste the wines that are the fruit of the grape harvest... which experience attracts you most?

Autumn in Italy offers a range of unique experiences for every type of traveller. From wine and food tours to trekking in nature parks, from museum visits to strolls along the charming streets of historic centres: all you have to do is choose your itinerary and go. Imagine walking through the vineyards of the Langhe, admiring the foliage that colours the hillsides red and gold, or losing yourself in the enchanted forests of Alto Adige, breathing in the fresh mountain air. And again, to savour the typical dishes of autumn festivals, or to visit medieval villages enveloped in a magical atmosphere. The milder temperatures tempt you to try new itineraries and you can discover an Italy of many shades. Start planning now where to go in autumn in Italy with us!

Italian cities are not just the provincial and regional capitals such as Milan, Venice, Naples or Rome. There are many smaller, extraordinarily interesting cities. They are special, lesser-known destinations and villages that offer great artistic and cultural wealth. Autumn in Italy transforms all cities into even more fascinating places. The warm, soft lights, the squares enlivened by events and markets, the gardens coloured in a thousand shades: everything contributes to creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Choose from classic destinations, from the romantic calli of Venice to the elegant streets of Florence to the cobbled streets of Rome. Or follow the itineraries we have selected for you and set off on a new adventure. Find out which destinations are ideal for an autumn weekend and be enchanted by the timeless beauty of our cities.

Autumn is the perfect season to discover the charms of the Italian islands, far from the summer crowds. Imagine golden beaches, bathed by a still-warm sea, and picturesque villages awakening after the summer torpor. The islands in autumn offer a relaxing and romantic atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a holiday of relaxation and discovery. You can engage in water sports, taking advantage of the calmer waters, or go for walks along scenic trails. We have selected for you 5 islands to visit in autumn, which are even more special and fascinating in this season of intense colours and scents.

Still wondering what you can do in autumn in Italy? Our peninsula offers different kinds of experiences for those who prefer to go off the beaten track and discover hidden gems, unusual itineraries and activities that will reveal different views of Italy. If you like trekking in lesser-known forests and visiting small enchanted villages, we suggest a route to discover the Ligurian hinterland, which is perfect and pleasant with its mild climate. For lovers of street markets and gastronomic culture, the ideal is to explore the Italy of food markets, to immerse yourself in the local life in each region and experience the typical products of autumn in Italy. Another interesting adventure involves visiting the regions with the most beautiful churches in Italy, a spiritual journey that enhances an artistic heritage appreciated worldwide.

Every season has its fruits and every product can be enhanced through the wonderful recipes that are part of the Italian culinary tradition. The fresh produce that nature offers in autumn varies from region to region and offers endless possibilities to delight every palate. If you enjoy cooking, you could try your hand at some new culinary experiments. We suggest you traditional recipes related to autumn and the ingredients found in this season.

Which autumn experience in Italy has convinced you the most? All you have to do is pack your suitcase, book our tickets and go... enjoy your trip with Visit Italy!