Italy in Spring: where everyone is traveling this year

The most beautiful season for traveling is back, and it’s your chance to explore Italy. Spring finally brings back sunny weather, amazing landscapes full of colors and scents and new destinations to experience on your next exciting journey.

Would you like to discover the most enchanting destinations to visit in spring in Italy? Then you found exactly what you hoped for: browse our 2026 Italy Spring travel guide and check these twenty travel ideas from North to South, including cities of art, landscape resorts by the sea, lakes and hills, and destinations that bloom in this season with their magnificent local events. Which one will be your favorite?

Spring in Italy is a wonderful season from North to South, for many the best time of year to travel and enjoy the sights and locations without the hustle and bustle of mass tourism in summer or the cold temperatures of winter.

Spring is usually the most convenient season for a trip to the main Italian cities, just like Naples and Venice, or perhaps for exploring the hidden beauty of romantic villages. But the good weather and the happier mood also inspire travelers to join a few memorable experiences, those that happen at least once in a lifetime. In this time of year you can benefit from good climate and temperatures and much more quietness and slow-pace.

Budget is a key element in choosing to travel in spring, too. The most affordable option is to book a weekend taking advantage of the lower accommodation fees, except the Easter week and the holidays between April 25 and May 1, which usually entail the increase of prices for transports especially. The average cost per person to join a weekend in Italy in spring ranges between 115-175$ for low-cost accommodations (B&B, rent apartments), little towns and country resorts, or 230-350$ if you prefer to stay in major towns, tourist locations and hotels.

If you've decided to treat yourself to a spring escape to Italy, maybe for a full weekend, you'll probably need to do a little planning and we're here to help. We have selected 20 destinations to enjoy spring in Italy at its best, the most interesting travel ideas from North to South to experience all the diverse vibes that the bloom season can give.

Here are the destinations you'll find in this guide:

Champorcher (Aosta Valley); Langhe (Piedmont); Sestri Levante (Liguria); Lake Como (Lombardy); Val di Non (Trentino-Alto Adige); Venzone and Maniago (Friuli-Venezia Giulia); Palladian Villas (Veneto); Ferrara, Bologna, and Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna); Tuscan Archipelago National Park (Tuscany); Urbino (Marche); Norcia and Castelluccio (Umbria); Gerano (Lazio); Santo Stefano Sessanio (Abruzzo); Termoli (Molise); Sant'Agata de' Goti (Campania); Trani, Bisceglie, and Barletta (Apulia); Matera (Basilicata); Tropea (Calabria); Enna (Sicily); Sant'Antioco and San Pietro (Sardinia).

The Champorcher Valley is an Alpine valley located in the autonomous region of Valle d'Aosta, Italy. Known for its unspoiled nature and beautiful mountain landscape, the Champorcher Valley is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers. The valley lies right at the foot of the Gran Paradiso and offers numerous opportunities for mountain hiking, trekking, climbing.

The valley is also a place of great natural interest, with numerous trails leading to the discovery of breathtaking landscapes and rare and protected animal species, such as the chamois, ibex and golden eagle. In every season, the natural beauty of the valley makes it an unmissable destination for those who wish to spend time in contact with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Alpine landscape of the Aosta Valley.

With the sun reflecting off the endless hills and the scent of nature blooming once again, the Langhe is the ideal destination for a spring trip. The pearl of Piedmont, home of wine, truffles and hazelnuts, offers a variety of gastronomic wonders, and more, to discover and experience.

Alba is the capital of the Langhe and in 2017 was recognized by UNESCO as "Creative City for Gastronomy". The hills of this vast territory are dotted with numerous villages rich in history and cultural interest. Barbaresco, Barolo, La Morra, Neive, are all ancient medieval towns whose narrow streets are waiting to be explored in long and relaxing walks.

The ideal way to wander among the harmonious hills of the area, in springtime, is surely by bike, in order to fully enjoy the boundless landscapes between one village and another.

And after a long bike ride, what better way to relax than with a glass of the famous wines of the area? The excellent Barbaresco, Barbera, Barolo, Dolcetto, Furmentin, Nebbiolo and Pelaverga (DOC and DOCG wines) are exported all over the world, but the best place to taste them is in the many wine cellars of the area. And finally, don't miss the chance to taste the hazelnut cake, a specialty of the village of Cortemilia, which highlights the flavor of this renowned local product.

Sestri Levante is a small coastal town located in the Liguria region in north-western Italy. Located between Genoa and La Spezia, Sestri Levante is famous for its sandy beaches and the beauty of its historic centre. The town is strategically located with a spectacular view of the Ligurian Sea and surrounded by lush green hills. The historical centre of Sestri Levante is characterized by narrow alleys, colorful houses and old Genoese-style buildings.

Among the main local attractions are the Baia del Silenzio (litt. Bay of Silence), a beautiful beach named after its quiet and peaceful environment, and the Baia delle Favole (litt. Bay of fables), so called because of its legendary beauty and enchanted setting. Sestri Levante is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday by the sea combined with the discovery of one of the most beautiful and authentic towns in Liguria. In spring you can also enjoy the not too high temperature and the sea breeze.

Located in the heart of Lombardy, Lake Como is one of the most enchanting destinations in Northern Italy. Surrounded by mountains and featuring its distinctive inverted Y shape, it's the third-largest lake in Italy, offering breathtaking landscapes that attract travelers from all over the world.

Easily accessible from Milan, one of its main attractions is the village of Bellagio, known as the "Pearl of the Lake", with its elegant gardens and charming cobblestone streets.

Equally captivating are Varenna and Menaggio, picturesque towns that seem straight out of a postcard. Time moves slower here, with scenic lakeside walks, visits to historic villas such as the splendid Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello, and stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains.

Lake Como is also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts: sailing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling thrive in this magnificent setting. For those seeking relaxation, nothing beats a peaceful cruise, admiring the refined architecture of the many villas that dot the shores.

Val di Non is a valley located in the province of Trento. It is known for its natural beauty, with the mountains of the Dolomites rising imposingly on its sides. The valley is crossed by the river Noce and the area is characterized by numerous apple orchards, vineyards and coniferous forests. This valley is also famous for apple production, with numerous companies growing this fruit and processing it into juice, cider and other typical products.

Other attractions in the area include medieval castles, such as Thun Castle and San Michele Castle, which offer panoramic views of the valley. Val di Non is also an excellent starting point for mountain hikes and outdoor activities, such as rafting and paragliding. Visiting it in spring is something wonderful.

Venzone is a charming medieval town located in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in north-eastern Italy. The town is famous for its beautiful historical centre, surrounded by imposing walls and towers, and its Venetian Gothic architecture.

One of Venzone's main attractions is the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, dating back to the 14th century and with a 66-meter high bell tower, which offers a spectacular view of the town and its surroundings. Venzone is also famous for its gastronomy, especially its cured meats, such as San Daniele ham and smoked bacon, and local wines such as Friulano and Ribolla Gialla.

And don’t miss also the nearby Maniago, a town famous for its artisan sword forging that even conquered the most important historical film sets in Hollywood!

In spring, these villages come alive with vibrant colors and floral scents, creating an enchanting atmosphere among its ancient streets and surrounding landscapes.

The perfect season to enjoy the wonderful gardens of the Palladian Villas in Veneto (UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994) is definitely spring. A tour among the historic sixteenth century residences with their imposing neoclassical architecture is the best way to immerse yourself in the history of the area.

Among the villas not to be missed we have Villa Capra, called the Rotonda for its circular shape, Villa Angarano or Villa Pojana, with its striking frescoes. And also Villa Valmarana ai nani (so called because of the statues with which it is decorated), the villa-tempio Chiericati and Villa Porto Godi with its majestic garden.

The Palladian architecture (from the name of Andrea Palladio, architect creator of this kind of construction and of some of the most important residences) is distinguished by elegance and purity of form. The houses, places of leisure and entertainment of the nobles of the time, are all crowned by extensive gardens decorated with plants that create symmetrical patterns and various species of local flowers. Walking in springtime among these wonders takes you back in time, in the quiet of these places surrounded by nature.

A spring travel idea suitable for art lovers is definitely a small tour among the historic cities of Ravenna, Bologna and Ferrara, prominent artistic places in Emilia Romagna more or less one hour away from each other by car, but also well connected by public transport.

Ravenna, the ancient capital of the Western Roman Empire, still bears the traces of its important past: the Byzantine mosaics of the Basilica of San Vitale, the church of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and Sant'Apollinare in Classe (located outside the city in the harbor area) and those of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia are among the most beautiful works of art to be admired in the region.

If you want to get to the heart of Emilian architecture, it's impossible not to take a walk in the capital, Bologna, an extraordinary city offering numerous attractions: Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica of San Petronio, Piazza Santo Stefano, the Garisenda Tower, and the Asinelli Tower, from whose top you can enjoy a magical view of the city and the green Bolognese hills surrounding it. 

Finally, Ferrara, with its famous Este Castle, symbol and main attraction of the city, offers visitors a full immersion in its past whose alleys are populated by arches and hidden courtyards. The city's cathedral and Palazzo dei Diamanti also deserve a thorough visit before relaxing with a delicious local dinner in one of the area's typical restaurants.

The Tuscan Archipelago is a collection of islands and reefs located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Tuscan coast in Italy. The archipelago comprises seven main islands: Elba Island, Giglio Island, Giannutri, Montecristo, Pianosa, Capraia, and Gorgona, and numerous smaller islets and rocks.

The Tuscan archipelago offers a variety of landscapes and activities: from white sandy beaches to rocky cliffs, from nature reserves to historic towns. The islands of the archipelago are also famous for their cuisine and local wines, including the famous white wine of Elba Island. The Tuscan archipelago is an ideal tourist destination for those who love nature, culture and good food, offering a wide range of activities to suit the tastes of all visitors.

An ideal destination for those seeking a spring getaway blending nature and culture, Urbino is a city located in the Marche region, central Italy. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts an outstanding old town filled with cobblestone streets, welcoming squares, and enchanting buildings such as the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent example of Italian Renaissance architecture that now houses the National Gallery of the Marche.

The city is also the birthplace of the renowned Renaissance painter Raphael, whose artistic legacy is evident in numerous works and monuments, including his childhood home and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning 12th-century Romanesque church.

Urbino isn’t just about art and history: it’s a vibrant university town with a lively cultural scene, offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops that line its streets and squares. Surrounded by picturesque hills, it also offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Marche countryside.

The magnificent blooms of Pian Grande next to the hamlet of Castelluccio di Norcia have always been a must-see for travelers seeking beauty to admire and photograph in the peak of springtime, a veritable ocean of colors and scents covered with poppies, cornflowers, daisies and lentils.

Castelluccio is an unmissable landscape masterpiece in Umbria, demonstrating remarkable resilience after the devastating 2016 earthquake and keeping shine as the region's most brilliant historical and panoramic gem, offering hospitality to slow travelers and nature photography enthusiasts seeking glimpses you couldn’t find anywhere else.

The beautiful spring weather is also perfect for exploring Norcia's historic centre, at a leisurely pace and with immense emotion. In fact from this year it's possible to stroll again within Norcia's ancient walls and alleyways, breathe in the scent of truffles and local produce, and joyfully observe the rebirth of iconic monuments like the Basilica of San Benedetto and the Castellina Museum.

If you're looking for a truly local experience this spring, combining spirituality, art and the scents of spring, then you should explore Rome's hinterland off the beaten tourist track and visit the village of Gerano, nestled within Monti Prenestini east of Tivoli.

Every year here people celebrate Madonna del Cuore on the first Sunday after April 25th, an evocative event that transforms the centre of Gerano into an open-air stage of colors, fragrances and artistic compositions. Infiorata di Gerano dedicated to the Virgin Mary is recognized as the oldest flower festival in Italy, a tradition now spanning three centuries (the first was held in 1729) making this village one of the most picturesque destinations to experience in Italy this spring.

Its cobblestone streets are covered in a carpet of colorful petals in complex geometric designs, crafted with a kind of painterly precision. Beyond this spectacular display of color, the village offers a slow and timeless atmosphere with relaxing panoramic views, a perfect blend of the fleeting beauty of seasonal flowers and the solidity of history carved into Lazio's most authentic landscapes.

Santo Stefano di Sessanio is a charming medieval village located in the Abruzzo region, not far from the wonderful and famous Rocca Calascio. This ancient village is characterized by narrow streets, stone buildings and picturesque squares. Its historical architecture and privileged location at the foot of the Gran Sasso make Santo Stefano di Sessanio a popular tourist destination for those seeking an escape from urban life.

In the historic centre of the village are some of the best examples of medieval architecture in the region, including the 16th century Medicean Tower and the 14th century Church of San Lorenzo Martire. In addition, Santo Stefano di Sessanio is famous for its production of saffron, which has been cultivated in the region for centuries.

Termoli is a picturesque coastal town located in the Molise region in south-central Italy. The town overlooks the Adriatic Sea and offers beautiful beaches of golden sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for relaxing and sunbathing. The historical centre of Termoli, surrounded by ancient walls, is characterised by narrow streets, stone buildings and picturesque corners, such as the Swabian Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 11th century that dominates the town from above.

The historic centre is also home to the Cathedral of San Basso, a beautiful 12th-century Romanesque church, and the Museo Civico, which exhibits archaeological and historical artefacts related to the city's history. Termoli's gastronomic specialities include fresh fish dishes, such as brodetto alla termolese, a fish soup typical of the area. Visiting it in spring is something unique.

Discover the charm of the underground archaeological excavations of Termoli with an exclusive and captivating journey into the heart of local history.

Sant'Agata dei Goti is a one of the most charming villages of Campania. Characterized by narrow alleys, stone arches, churches and historical buildings, this medieval village represents a hidden jewel of antiquity in southern Italy.

Sant'Agata dei Goti is located about 40 kilometers north-east of Naples, on a hilltop overlooking the Isclero river valley, surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls, which testify to its ancient history. But what makes it a destination not to be missed in spring is the magical Infiorata (flower festival) for the religious celebration of Corpus Domini, in May or June, when the town wears the colors and scents of thousands of flower-based arts

Did you know that Sant'Agata dei Goti is also famous for its cheese production? Among these is the highly prized goat's cheese 'Caciocavallo'. Moreover, the beauty and history of this village make it an ideal destination for lovers of history, art and culture, who wish to discover the beauty of lesser-known Italy, especially in spring.

Lovers of the Middle Ages cannot miss a visit to these three wonderful cities in the North of Bari. In each of these cities, overlooking the Apulian sea, the footprints of the Norman Swabian past have left their mark in the churches and majestic castles. Spring is definitely the perfect time to visit these coastal cities, before the advent of summer tourism and the torrid heat typical of Southern Italy.

Bisceglie looks like a picturesque medieval center: churches, palaces, and monuments are shown in a maze of houses and alleys. Here stands the Cathedral of St. Peter, built in 1295 classic example of Apulian Romanesque.

Trani is also remembered for the splendid cathedral on the sea, the white of the typical stone stands out against the blue of the sea that envelops the old town, exalting the colors of the city port, one of the most experienced places in the city. Here you can taste the local seafood specialties and stroll among the picturesque boats.

Not far from Bisceglie and Trani, just beyond the city of Andria, stands the unmistakable silhouette of the famous Castel del Monte, a symbol of the medieval history of the region and ancient residence of Frederick II.

Lastly, Barletta has a huge castle near the sea which dominates the city and has gone down in history for its Colosso monument and the legendary 16th-century disfida. This historic challenge, which saw the victory over French knights, remains one of the most iconic moments in Italian chivalric history.

Matera is a city located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. Known as the 'City of the Sassi', Matera is famous for its ancient quarters of houses carved out of the rock, called 'sassi', which have been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period. These quarters, located on a hill overlooking the Gravina river, represent one of the oldest and most impressive examples of rock architecture in the world.

Matera was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and has attracted international attention due to its beauty and millennial history. The city is also famous for its food and wine culture, with a wide range of traditional Lucanian dishes, including the famous Matera bread. Matera is an ideal tourist destination for those who love history, architecture and culture, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of southern Italy. It will amaze you in spring!

The beach of Tropea is one of the most famous seaside destinations in Calabria, located in the province of Vibo Valentia. Known as the 'Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea', this beach offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the crystal-clear sea and the rocky coastline. The beach is located at the foot of the historic centre of Tropea, a medieval village overlooking the sea, and is characterized by fine white sand and transparent waters.

The beach is about 2 kilometers long and offers numerous activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding. Don’t miss your chance also to explore the side of Tropea that most travelers don’t expect: here you will find awesome views to experience in a wonderful blooming nature setting. Go hiking up to the majestic Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola atop of a towering rock overlooking the sea, or try the Ulysses Path in the near Caria di Drapia and visit the Galluppi Castle.

Tropea's natural beauty, combined with the city's rich history and culture, makes it a popular and fascinating tourist destination for those who wish to spend a relaxing holiday discovering the beauty of southern Italy. Visit it in spring, before the summer rush, you will not regret it.

Located on Sicily's highest natural viewpoint in the very middle of the island, the charming city of Enna in the peak of spring is a magnet for travelers seeking emotional and cultural intensity.

Enna is one of Italy's most popular Easter holiday destinations, a custodian of ancient traditions and sensations that trace the very origins of Sicilian culture. Holy Week in Enna is wonderful, a moment of spiritual fulfillment for the devotees but also an incredible spectacle for tourists interested in the folk aspect of the event. The heart of Easter celebrations is Good Friday, when thousands of hooded brothers parade in surreal silence through the city streets, carrying Fercoli (statues of the Easter Mysteries) of Enna's sixteen confraternities in procession performing a ritual that blends mysticism, profound devotion and a reminder of the island's Spanish past.

The natural panorama will also captivate you. With the arrival of spring, Enna’s hinterland renews itself with a vibrant emerald green scented with fresh leaves and wildflowers, a stunning backdrop that transforms Rocca di Cerere into a breathtaking view. Visit also the majestic Castello di Lombardia, picturesque villages like Nicosia and Sperlinga, and don't forget to sample traditional Easter treats, such as pupi cu l'ova biscuits, a multisensory experience to discover a Sicily you don't expect.

San Pietro and Sant’Antioco Islands are truly enchanting destinations located in the southwestern side of Sardinia, best known for their pristine nature and stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, the brilliant colors of limestone rocks all around and the pleasant view of little towns by the seaside.

Especially in spring, these islands await those who wish to spend time in touch with nature and enjoy the beauty of the sea, offering a wide range of activities such as trekking, fishing and boat trips, within the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere that makes them a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Sardinia.

A good reason to visit this region - and the amazing San Pietro and Sant’Antioco Islands - in the blooming season is all about the impressive holidays celebrated in its main cities, in a sacred yet folk-pop atmosphere. We recommend to experience some of the awesome Easter events across Sardinia, especially in near Iglesias with the parade of Baballottis, and don’t miss the colorful town’s celebration for Sant’Efisio in Cagliari with the flower rite of Sa Ramadura with the throwing of millions of wonderful rose petals.