Where to go on holiday in Italy in October: 5 must-see destinations

The autumn season blossoms, weaving a mosaic of warm, embracing colours. The chromatic nuance of the landscapes creates a picturesque backdrop poised between summer glitz and winter whiteness—a perfect time to travel. If you are wondering "where to go on holiday in Italy in October", you are in the right place.

But why October? Travelling to Italy during this month offers the chance to experience the 'real' Italy, the authentic and unspoilt one, far from mass tourism. The summer crowds have melted away, creating a more intimate and genuine atmosphere. So, get ready to discover in this article where to go on holiday in Italy in October.

In Italy, October is a month that takes on an irresistible charm. The main point in its favour? The mild climate. Forget the summer sultriness and the crowds of tourists besieging the main attractions. October is the month of the 'low season', a term that almost sounds like an oxymoron when talking about Italy. It is a golden time to discover the country in a more authentic and relaxed guise. Temperatures are pleasant, ideal for urban exploration or nature walks, and tourist attractions are decidedly less crowded. It is like having VIP access to Italian beauty without the crowds.

But it is not just a question of comfort. October in Italy is an explosion of colours and flavours that makes every destination a multi-sensory experience. Imagine walking through the vineyards of Tuscany, where the leaves take on golden and orange hues, creating a picture-postcard landscape. Or attend one of the many autumn festivals, where you can sample seasonal delicacies such as porcini mushrooms, truffles and new wines. It is the season when nature and culture merge into a perfect union, making every trip an unforgettable adventure.

So if you are looking for a holiday that is a perfect mix of relaxation, discovery and authenticity, October is perfect month. Get ready to experience Italy like never before.

Below, we have selected five unmissable destinations to holiday in Italy in October, unique places that glow in the autumn atmosphere.

Florence is a city that offers much to see and do in every season. However, in autumn, the mild climate and still long days make it possible to enjoy the city's beauty at its best.

Florence is a city rich in history and art, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through the streets of the centre, you can admire masterpieces such as the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio and the Piazza della Signoria. In addition, the city is home to some of the world's most famous museums, including the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery and the Bargello Museum. In autumn, these museums are less crowded so you can admire some of the world's most famous works of art in a quieter setting.

We suggest you go to Monte Senario, just north of Florence, to admire the foliage. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding countryside from here. In autumn, its woods turn red, yellow and orange. Otherwise, the Parco delle Cascine, south of Florence, is also transformed into a rainbow of colours.

Bormio is a tourist resort located in Alta Valtellina. In addition to being a popular tourist destination in winter for its ski slopes, Bormio is also a popular destination for autumn hikers. The warm colours of the leaves falling from the trees make this period ideal for hiking and admiring the foliage.

The Alta Valtellina offers countless hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness. In addition, the Stelvio National Park is one of the best places to admire the foliage in Valtellina. In particular, the area of the Cancano Lakes, Val Viola or Val Zebrù offer hiking trails with wonderful views. In addition, Bormio is world-famous for its thermal baths for their healing waters. Treat yourself to a few hours of relaxation at QC Terme Bagni Nuovi, surrounded by nature.

Take the opportunity also to taste the typical products of Valtellina. Autumn is the period of chestnuts, mushrooms and apples. These products are the protagonists of numerous festivals and folk festivals which take place throughout the region.

Autumn in Alba, Piedmont, is a multi-sensory experience. Alba is a city known for its white truffles, and in October, the town hosts the annual International White Truffle Fair, an unmissable event for gourmets.

But that's not all. Alba is also the home of Barolo wine, the 'king of wines and the wine of kings'. The surrounding wineries offer tastings that are true oenological odysseys. And for art lovers, the historic centre is a veritable open-air museum. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the Castle of Grinzane Cavour, the Torre del Comune and the Piazza del Duomo.

And then there is nature. The Langhe, the region in which Alba is located, offers breathtaking landscapes, ideal for autumn excursions. The golden vineyards, chestnut forests and mist-shrouded hills create an almost magical atmosphere, a true balm for the soul.

Perugia is an ideal destination to explore during October. Imagine walking through the city streets, the crisp air caressing your face and the scent of chocolate permeating your nostrils. Yes, you got it right: October is the month of the famous Eurochocolate, the international chocolate festival that attracts gourmands worldwide. During these days of sweet bliss, you can taste numerous varieties of chocolate, watch spectacular chocolate sculptures and participate in workshops and themed events.

But Perugia is not just chocolate. The city is rich in monuments and places of interest, such as the Fontana Maggiore, the Palazzo dei Priori and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, as well as the National Gallery of Umbria, which houses an extraordinary collection of medieval and Renaissance works of art.

Finally, remember to walk along the Etruscan walls, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

If you are looking for a different, less traditional, but equally fascinating autumn, Palermo is your destination. Autumn in Palermo is a time of transition, where the summer effervescence gives way to milder weather, ideal for exploring the city on foot. Start with a visit to the Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that is an amalgamation of styles, from Norman to Arab.

But Palermo is also a city of markets. The Mercato del Capo and the Mercato di Ballarò are pulsating places of life where you can immerse yourself in the aromas and flavours of Sicilian cuisine. October is the month of olives and prickly pears, and in the markets, you will find stalls overflowing with these autumn fruits.

And for those in search of a bit of mysticism? You can't miss the Capuchin Catacombs, a place that provokes profound reflections on life and death in a unique historical and cultural context.

Finally, for contemporary art lovers, the GAM (Gallery of Modern Art) offers temporary exhibitions ranging from Surrealism to Post-Impressionism, a real feast for the eyes and soul.

October is a perfect month to take advantage of all the wonders Italy has to offer, exploring places far from mass tourism. Whether you are a lover of art, history, nature, food or wine, there is always something unique to discover. Moreover, October can offer unique and unforgettable experiences. The weather is still pleasant, the days are bright and the destinations less crowded.

For example, October is still harvest season in many Italian regions. Immersing yourself in the golden vineyards to observe the grape harvest up close could be the perfect way to get in touch with local traditions. It is also the perfect time to taste white truffles, experiencing the autumnal flavours of Italian cuisine.

Wherever you decide to go, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic and memorable experience. So, where to go on holiday in October in Italy? Don't hesitate to choose one of the destinations we have suggested, the richness and beauty of the Italian landscape will captivate you.