Top 20 unique experiences to have in Italy once in a lifetime

Buckle up: Italy is a land brimming with breathtaking landscapes, rich flavors, and timeless traditions waiting to be discovered. From snow-capped peaks to golden coastlines and enchanting villages, you’ll experience emotions like no other. In this article, we’ll guide you through 20 authentic experiences, from north to south, each capable of turning an ordinary trip into an unforgettable adventure—those you must live at least once in a lifetime. From sailing at sunset on a historic yacht to uncovering ancient flavors, every moment is a taste of a dreamlike Italy that awaits you.

Be amazed by the Valle d’Aosta, where crenellated towers and medieval strongholds rise against the Alpine ridges. Every fortress, from the dramatic walls of Fénis Castle to the enigmatic allure of Fort Bard, invites you to explore the union of medieval strategy and art. And there’s more: the Megalithic Area of Saint-Martin-de-Corléans, known as the MegaMuseum, offers a window into 6,000 years of civilization, with standing stones, ritual wells, and Neolithic traces that reveal the human origins of these valleys. It’s an experience that sparks curiosity and connects you deeply with Italy’s history.

Perfect for: history buffs, culture lovers, and Alpine scenery enthusiasts.
Extra tip: plan your visit in spring, when the castles in bloom take on a magical glow.
Location: Valle d’Aosta region (various sites).

Nestled in the peaceful Val di Sole near Vermiglio, Chalet al Foss Alp Resort is a mountain-chic retreat where refined comfort meets unspoiled nature. Here, you can experience the unique thrill of having breakfast—literally—in the snow with the Foss Breakfast. Lying on a heated bed nestled in the snow, surrounded by the pristine alpine landscape, you can enjoy fresh fruit, artisanal pastries, and warm drinks while the snow-covered mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop. It’s more than just breakfast: it’s a sensory, romantic ritual, a truly unique moment that turns the morning into an unforgettable memory.

Perfect for: couples seeking luxury, sensory comfort, and alpine serenity.

Extra tip: book a suite with a private jacuzzi to toast at sunset over the Dolomites.

Location: Vermiglio, Val di Sole (TN), Trentino Alto Adige.

Climb Mount Pirchiriano (962 m) and be welcomed by the Sacred Abbey of San Michele that towers over the Susa Valley, a symbolic monument of Piedmont for its history and spirituality. The path leads you to the Stairway of the Dead and the famed Zodiac Portal, a Romanesque masterpiece attributed to Master Nicolao—an arch of stone that tells centuries of faith, art, and pilgrimage. At the summit, the imposing façade and sanctuary offer one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Italy, where Alpine landscapes merge with monastic memory. An invitation to look beyond.

Perfect for: spiritual travelers, history buffs, and lovers of medieval culture.
Extra tip: visit at sunset, when the light sets the abbey’s stones aglow and gifts breathtaking views of the Susa Valley.
Location: Sant’Ambrogio di Torino, Piedmont.

What if we told you that you could venture inside the walls of a mighty stronghold rising majestically on the western shore of Lake Idro? Welcome to Rocca d’Anfo. Built in the 15th century by the Republic of Venice and greatly expanded during the Napoleonic era, it is today the largest Napoleonic fortress in Italy—a remarkable treasure for history enthusiasts and landscape lovers alike. Spanning nearly 50 hectares across steep slopes, it weaves together trenches, batteries, tunnels, and barracks, creating a living tapestry of centuries of strategy and conflict. Guided tours such as “From the Serenissima to the Kingdom of Italy” let you experience a place where nature and memory intertwine, offering a truly unique journey through history and the Alpine peaks.

Perfect for: lovers of military architecture and untamed nature.
Extra tip: wear hiking shoes and bring a flashlight to explore the underground passages.
Location: Anfo, Valle Sabbia (BS), Lombardy.

Venice as you’ve never seen it before: with Il Doge di Venezia, every tour is an immersion into mystery, history, and the splendor of the lagoon. On board elegant boats, you’ll depart from Punta Sabbioni or directly from Venice to explore the canals, the Doge’s Palace, and the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Choose the “Venice by Night” tour and watch the sunset turn the water into a kaleidoscope of emotions, or opt for the classic itinerary to savor the timeless beauty in the quiet of lesser-known calli. Expert guides, impeccable service, and a carefully curated fleet make every moment unforgettable.

Perfect for: those who dream of living in Venice like a Doge, romantic couples, and history and architecture enthusiasts.
Extra tip: take a boat ride at sunset—the golden light over the lagoon and the hush of the waves create memories that will last forever.
Location: Venice and its lagoon (departures from Punta Sabbioni and San Marco), Veneto.

Picture yourself setting sail at dusk aboard a historic vessel: the Yacht Roberta III, a proud symbol of Adriatic seafaring, carries you along the coasts of Trieste and the Karst. As you glide across the water, you’ll marvel at the Duino Cliffs from the sea while savoring an aperitif of local wines and slow-food specialties that showcase the region’s biodiversity. Every moment is a journey through time, blending history and nature in a setting where authenticity meets poetry. A sunset sail that delivers truly unforgettable emotions.

Perfect for: those seeking a romantic and exclusive experience at sea.
Extra tip: bring a light jacket—the Adriatic breeze grows stronger at sunset.
Location: Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Rising like a mirage amid the forests of the Bolognese Apennines, Rocchetta Mattei is an architectural gem where Moorish, medieval, and Art Nouveau styles intertwine. It’s a labyrinth of towers, oriental loggias, and dreamlike staircases imagined by the visionary Count Cesare Mattei, founder of electrohomeopathy. Purchased and restored to its former glory by the Carisbo Foundation in 2005, today it welcomes visitors into its halls, with hidden courtyards, the renowned Court of Lions inspired by the Alhambra, and rooms that conjure up the allure of ancient tales.

Perfect for: lovers of visionary art, whimsical architecture, and timeless atmospheres
Extra tip: join one of the evening events or special openings—the castle illuminated under the stars becomes even more magical and mysterious
Location: Savignano (Grizzana Morandi), Emilia-Romagna

Step into a world of waves, legends, and merchants at Galata Museo del Mare in Genoa. Its striking glass-and-steel design, seamlessly integrated with the city’s ancient arsenal, houses an immersive journey across five floors and more than 30 themed galleries. You’ll sail through time—from 17th-century Genoese galleys to life aboard majestic sailing ships, all the way to the dramatic stories of modern migrations. Outside, the submarine Nazario Sauro, moored at the Old Port, offers a rare, hands-on experience of exploring and understanding life beneath the waves.

Perfect for: naval history buffs, curious families, and anyone who loves the blend of technology and storytelling.
Extra tip: don’t miss the Nazario Sauro submarine, the only museum submarine in Italy open to visitors in the water—a unique chance to experience firsthand what life was like aboard.
Location: Genoa, Liguria.

Perched among the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia, Castello Banfi embodies the perfect harmony between the tradition of Brunello di Montalcino and cutting-edge winemaking. The tour takes you through quiet vineyards, historic barrels, and state-of-the-art cellars, culminating in a sensory tasting of Banfi’s iconic wines. Here, every sip tells a story of passion for research, respect for the terroir, and the essence of Italian quality. It’s an experience that awakens the senses and enriches the mind—perfect for those who want to savor an authentic taste of Italy.

Perfect for: wine enthusiasts, lovers of understated luxury, and admirers of enchanting landscapes.
Extra tip: don’t stop at the tasting—explore the Museum of Glass and Bottles, home to one of the largest private collections of ancient glass, and be amazed by the Balsameria.
Location: Montalcino, Tuscany.

In the heart of Perugia, the Isola di San Lorenzo is an architectural gem where spirituality, ancient history, and art blend in harmony. It encompasses the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, cloisters from the 15th and 18th centuries, the canon houses, the Chapter Museum, and the evocative archaeological site of Underground Perugia. You’ll walk along Etruscan and Roman paving stones beneath the cathedral, moving from cloisters to courtyards steeped in centuries of memory.

Perfect for: archaeology lovers, spirituality seekers, and curious travelers.
Extra tip: visit at sunset, when the golden light bathes the cloisters and the cathedral façade in a magical glow.
Location: Perugia, Umbria.

In the heart of Fabriano, the Paper and Watermark Museum stands within the former Dominican Convent, guardian of more than 700 years of papermaking tradition. Here you can witness the reconstruction of a medieval paper mill and follow the entire process of handmade paper: from cleaning rags in the stracciarola, to soaking, pressing on felt, and drying. Special attention is given to sizing with animal gelatin, which makes the sheet resistant to ink. The collection features both ancient and modern watermarks, revealed only under the light. Additionally, the educational workshop enables visitors to create their own sheet, guided by master papermakers. An educational journey that celebrates innovation, craftsmanship, and local heritage.

Perfect for: craft enthusiasts, lovers of ancient techniques, and families seeking tactile experiences.
Extra tip: the museum offers educational activities specifically designed for elementary and secondary schools—a chance to introduce young people to the art of papermaking and let them experience this centuries-old tradition firsthand.
Location: Fabriano, Marche.

If you’re seeking energy, discovery, and wilderness, Il Bosso is your gateway to the wild heart of Abruzzo. For over 25 years, this historic cooperative has promoted sustainable tourism and hands-on activities: canoeing and kayaking along the Tirino River, trekking, snowshoe hikes, nature rides, and tastings of local flavors. The rhythm here changes—you wake up at dawn among the mountains, breathe in the morning dew in the woods, and fall asleep beneath a sky sparkling with stars.

Perfect for: thrill-seekers, families craving a close encounter with nature, and groups eager to try outdoor adventures.
Extra tip: bring a flashlight and pause to stargaze after sunset, the absence of artificial light unveils breathtaking views.
Location: Tirino Valley, Abruzzo.

The Giardino di Ninfa feels like a living painting. Spread across more than 8 hectares of wild nature and medieval ruins, it shelters over 1,300 botanical species weaving among rare shrubs, climbing roses, magnolias, and Japanese maples. Founded by the Caetani family and declared a Natural Monument in 2000, Ninfa captivates with its ruins of medieval churches, little bridges over crystal-clear streams, and lush meadows. Here, you can wander in silence, listen to birdsong, and watch the light filter through arches and greenery—an experience that stirs the senses.

Perfect for: botany lovers, romantics, and photographers in search of unique atmospheres.
Extra tip: plan your visit between April and May to witness cherry blossoms and enjoy the golden light at sunrise or sunset.
Location: Cisterna di Latina, Sermoneta, Lazio.

Rising proudly above the Volturno Valley, Castello Pignatelli di Monteroduni is a journey back in time—a fortress with Lombard and Norman roots that has dominated the surrounding landscape for centuries. Its crenellated towers, ancient walls with arrow slits, monumental staircase, and elegant portals carved from the red breccia of Matese tell of transformations across the ages: from its vital defensive role to its rebirth as a noble residence under the Pignatelli family. Here, you can breathe history, touch stones that have witnessed sieges and restorations, and feel the emotion of a place where ancient architecture and Molise’s natural beauty intertwine.

Perfect for: medieval history enthusiasts, castle lovers, and travelers seeking an authentic experience in the heart of Molise.
Extra tip: climb the corner towers at sunset—the warm light ignites the battlements and unveils an unforgettable view of the valley.
Location: Monteroduni, Molise.

Picture yourself kneading authentic Neapolitan pizza dough with your own hands, guided by the expert eyes of master pizzaioli: that’s precisely what AVPN’s Pizza Maker for a Day experience offers. You’ll take part in a three-hour workshop where you’ll learn the AVPN standards—from crafting the traditional dough, to stretching it, and finally baking it in a wood-fired oven. At the end, you’ll savor the pizza you created, paired with typical flavors of Campania. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the history, taste, and culture of pizza, recognized as cultural heritage.

Perfect for: food lovers, travelers eager to explore local cuisine, and families looking to laugh and learn together.
Extra tip: wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing, the flour flies and the wood-fired oven radiates plenty of heat.
Location: Naples, Campania.

At the Museo Essenza Lucano in Pisticci, near Matera, every sense is immersed in a symphony of aromas and history: more than 30 medicinal herbs, cultivated in the courtyard’s aromatic garden, can be admired, touched, and smelled, all part of the secret recipe behind Amaro Lucano. Through five thematic areas – Lucania, Lucano, Amaro, History, and Pacchiana – the museum takes you on a journey among moving walnut presses, multimedia installations, iconic advertising campaigns, and interactive tastings. The experience culminates at the Bar Essenza with signature cocktails crafted with Amaro Lucano, and at the shop, where you can take home a souvenir infused with the deep flavors of Basilicata.

Perfect for: lovers of authentic flavors and sensory travelers.
Extra tip: stop by the “Progetto Essenza” mural by street artist Antonio Poe for an artistic touch that adds even more color to the story.
Location: Pisticci Scalo, Basilicata.

Get ready for a journey among towering cliffs, sea stacks, and natural caves carved by the waves: with Desirèe Coastal Tours you’ll uncover the most authentic soul of Gargano. On board the historic motorboat Desirèe, guided by the Trimigno family, who have lived and shared these waters for three generations, you’ll step into a world of shimmering light and reflections. Awaiting you are evocatively named caves, such as the “Grotta Sfondata” and the “Grotta dei Due Occhi,” along with a stop in a secluded bay where you can dive into crystal-clear waters. An experience that blends sea, history, and family tradition.

Perfect for: sea lovers, families, and travelers in search of genuine thrills.
Extra tip: bring a mask and snorkel—the seabeds of Gargano reveal breathtaking underwater scenery.
Location: Vieste, Puglia.

If you’re looking for an experience that both excites and restores you, River Tribe takes you straight to the heart of the Pollino National Park, where the Lao River becomes your natural stage. Here you can throw yourself into adrenaline-pumping rafting descents, breathtaking canyoning, kayaking, and packrafting, or opt for softer adventures like river walking and gentle streamside treks—all under the guidance of expert instructors. The roar of the water, the rush of the current, and the untouched wilderness around you turn every activity into a full sensory immersion.

Perfect for: lovers of pure adventure, groups of friends, travelers seeking high-energy thrills
Pro tip: book the sunset descent through the canyon—the golden light dancing on the water creates unforgettable colors
Location: Laino Borgo, Pollino (CS), Calabria

Take flight with Volare sull’Arte: a hot air balloon adventure that lifts your gaze toward breathtaking panoramas, suspended between nature and cultural heritage in the most authentic Sicily. Glide over ancient villages, rolling valleys, and the Calanchi of Cannizzola—every flight a living canvas. Liftoff at sunrise or sunset, when the light casts dramatic shadows and ignites the island’s colors with emotion. From the inflation of the balloon to the silence of the sky embracing you, each moment unfolds as an ethereal journey to experience the art of the landscape like never before.

Perfect for: dreamers in search of the surreal, photography lovers, couples seeking magic.
Extra tip: bring sunglasses and dress in layers—temperatures shift quickly at dawn, and the views of Mount Etna or Sicily’s inland landscapes are nothing short of spectacular.
Location: various sites across Sicily and Campania.

In the heart of central-western Sardinia, near Paulilatino, the Sacred Well of Santa Cristina welcomes you like a portal to the past: a nuragic well-temple dating back to the Late Bronze Age (around the 12th century B.C.). Time seems suspended in its perfectly cut stones, in the trapezoidal staircase of 25 steps descending into the underground chamber, and in the tholos dome arching over the sacred spring. It is the most representative of Sardinia’s sacred wells—a place where myth, water worship, and ancient astronomy intertwine. Your visit becomes a mystical journey, wrapped in the scents of Mediterranean scrub and silences that speak.

Perfect for: archaeology lovers and history enthusiasts.
Extra tip: plan your visit during the equinoxes or full moon to witness the inverted shadow phenomenon or the play of light illuminating the well’s water.
Location: Paulilatino, Sardinia.