Autumn in Italy: 20+ Best Places for Fall Escape 2023

VENETO, ITALY IN AUTUMN

Veneto, situated in northeastern Italy, is an enchanting region that boasts diverse attractions, including the romantic city of Venice, charming towns like Verona, and the awe-inspiring Dolomites mountain range, known for its dramatic peaks, scenic hiking trails, and world-class skiing opportunities.

Explore the enchanting canals, intricate bridges, and magnificent architecture of Venice, or venture beyond to discover the charming towns of Peschiera or Sirmione, Padua, and Vicenza, each offering their own unique charms. The region is renowned for its range of wines, especially Prosecco wine. Savour the flavours of Venetian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the art, history, and natural beauty that permeates the region.

Veneto promises an unforgettable experience, combining timeless beauty, cultural riches, and the undeniable allure of both the Venetian lagoon and the majestic Dolomites.

The Dolomites in the Veneto Region during Autumn in Italy

Image and recommendation by Karen Warren of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Dolomites in the Veneto Region of Italy are breath-taking mountains that come alive with colour in the fall. The combination of stunning foliage, steep mountains, and buttery lighting creates dramatic backdrops for sightseeing and photography. Hiking on uncrowded trails to cosy huts in the Dolomites is perfect in autumn. It’s also a pleasant time to go mountain biking, rock climbing, or take leisurely day hikes though the picturesque villages or mountains.

Many villages throughout the Dolomites will have harvest festivals where you can sample local cuisines while experiencing regional culture heritage. For example, Fešta del Dešmonteà is a traditional festival in Cortina d’Ampezzo celebrating bringing the livestock in from the mountains. Cows draped in flowers are herded through the streets of this charming town.

The best autumnal things to do in the Dolomites:

Hike in the tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Trails for all abilities wind through the Dolomites. For the adventurous, a trail with a via ferrata (protected climbing route with steel cables) is an exciting way to experience the peaks. Or you may just want to take one of the many cable cars to the summit of a Dolomite mountain.

Visit the small villages and sample traditional cuisines and local wines. The rich agricultural region produces fruits and vegetables used in the local dishes. Cheese, wine, and artisanal handicrafts are a product of farms in the region.

Enjoy the autumn colors as you drive through scenic valleys and mountain passes. As October progresses the Veneto region transforms into a brilliant canvas of colorful foliage.

With so many exciting activities to do in autumn in the Dolomites, the fall is a perfect time to visit. Outside the tourist season, you’ll have time to make authentic connections with locals while you enjoy the festivals and foliage of the Dolomites.

Autumn in Verona, Italy

Image and recommendation by Georgina of Timeless Travel Steps

Verona, the enchanting city of charm and Shakespeare’s tales is especially attractive during autumn in Italy. Surrounded by gentle rolling hills, Verona in autumn is truly special as it unveils its romantic charm amidst the golden hues of the season.

Verona is one of the most beloved destinations for art and literature enthusiasts, drawing visitors of all ages. This enchanting city, famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, offers a timeless appeal to all visitors. Wander through the charming streets of Verona’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the architectural marvels like the Roman Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, and the beautiful Ponte Pietra. Take in the vibrant colours of autumn as you stroll along the cobblestone lanes lined with cafes and boutique shops. Verona offers a captivating blend of culture, gastronomy, and picturesque landscapes with autumn being a particularly pleasant time to visit Verona.

Things to experience in Verona during the autumn season:

Sample Local Cuisine at Osterie and Trattorias: Piazza delle Erbe is especially a delightful destination in Verona offering trattorias with authentic culinary experiences. Here, you can indulge in traditional seafood pasta, where the freshest ingredients are expertly combined to create flavourful and sumptuous dishes.

One of Verona’s most famous dishes is Risotto all’Amarone. A rich and velvety risotto made with Amarone wine, local cheese, and often accompanied by savoury additions such as Amarone-soaked cherries or braised meats. Pair your meal with a glass of Valpolicella wine for a true taste of Verona. The trattorias on Piazza delle Erbe provide an ideal setting to savour these regional specialties surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of Verona’s lively square.

The Festa dell’Uva, also known as the Grape Festival, is a popular celebration of the harvest season in Verona. This annual festival typically takes place in late September or early October. The festival features lively parades, grape stomping, wine tastings, street performances, and various cultural activities centered around Verona’s rich wine-making heritage.

Admire the autumn foliage in Giardino Giusti: Visit the stunning Giardino Giusti and immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, marvel at the vibrant colours of the foliage, and take in panoramic views of Verona from the garden’s terraces.

Visit Verona’s Vineyards and Wineries: Take a scenic drive through the countryside surrounding Verona and explore the vineyards and wineries of Valpolicella. Enjoy wine tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and savour the flavours of renowned local wines like Amarone and Recioto.

Verona’s autumnal activities are a great way to immerse in the city’s rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and culinary delights, creating unforgettable memories of your visit

VENETO

#1. Venice in One Day: BOOK IT

#2. Valpolicella Wineries Tour + Lunch + Amarone Tastings: BOOK IT

#3. Trip to the Dolomites: BOOK IT

MORE >> VENICE; VERONA

MORE OF ITALY?

Here are links to some destinations in Italy which you may like to explore further:

Milan

Lake Como

Lake Garda

Prettiest Towns in Lake Garda: 17 You Must See

10+ Top Things to do in Peschiera del Garda, Italy

Sirmione Old Town: The Charms of this Quirky Castle Town in Lake Garda, Italy;

Verona

finally…about Autumn in Italy

Autumn in Italy is a season that captivates the senses and offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Landscapes adorned with vibrant colours to the delightful flavours of seasonal cuisine, and harvest festivals,Italy reveals its true charm during this golden season.

Whether you’re exploring the picturesque cave towns and villages, soaking in the sun on the shores of Sardinia, savouring a glass of wine in Tuscany’s vineyards, or admiring the picturesque beauty of Lake Como, autumn casts a magical spell over the country. Autumn in Italy is indeed a perfect season to travel to Italy.

Have a great time exploring Italy in the autumn season, xx