Truffle or Pumpkin? Why you Should Visit Italy During Fall
One of the most common questions we receive is “when is the best time to visit Italy”? The answer depends on your individual needs, but certainly September, October and November are some of the most underrated months of the year to visit. While summer often steals the spotlight as the most popular time to explore Italy, there's something truly magical about experiencing this country during the fall. Here are a few uniquely Italian experiences during this beautiful time of year:
1. Go Truffle Hunting in Tuscany or Umbria
Seek and you will find
Ah, truffle- Italian black gold! This delectable treat can be difficult to find in the states but it is abundant and affordable in Italy. Fall is truffle season in Italy, and Tuscany is one of the best places to experience the thrill of truffle hunting. Join a local truffle hunter and trusty hound as they lead you through the picturesque forests in search of these prized delicacies. The earthy aroma and exquisite taste of freshly unearthed truffles make for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Villa Casolare in Chianti recently launched a truffle hunting experience as part of its enrichment series. Available as an optional activity for guests who book the five-bedroom luxury villa, the expedition will be led by local expert truffle hunters Mauro and Mattia Nesi, along with their adorable hunting dogs Ardesia, Brisa, and Spritz (best name ever?).
The two-hour adventure will take guests through several countryside paths where they will learn how to find truffles and gain a deeper understanding of the culinary process, favorite recipes and more. Many of our Umbrian villas offer similar experiences as the region is also rich with truffle.
2. Soak in Thermal Hot Springs
Take a hot bath under the stars
The start of fall weather will depend on the area of Italy you are staying in, but in many places, it begins to get chilly in late October/early November.. This is the perfect time to enjoy a “bagno di notte” (nightly bath) outside in the steaming thermal springs under the stars. Italy boasts many natural thermal hot springs from Umbria to Ischia, and visiting them during the fall is pure bliss. The cooler temperatures make soaking in the warm, healing waters even more enjoyable. Finish the day with a relaxing massage at one of Italy’s renowned spas or bring the relaxation home and have a masseuse come to you in your villa. See the best thermal hot springs in Italy for where to visit.
3. Experience the Harvest
Changing leaves on the vineyard
Early fall is the season of harvest in Italy, and you'll find vineyards and orchards ripe with grapes, olives, and other fruits. Many of our villas offer visitors the chance to participate in grape and olive harvesting, giving you a hands-on experience of Italian agricultural traditions. We can also help arrange wine tours at some of the finest estates in Italy, like the Antinori estate. Just like its well-known neighbor Tuscany, Umbria has fabulous selection of world-class wines. As you drive through its dreamy landscapes, you’ll pass through many beautiful wineries and vineyards. If you decide to take a tour, you can learn all about the steps from grape to glass, with fantastic explanations from expert guides and winemakers.
One of our favorite Umbrian wine producers is Paolo Bea. His winery, located in Montefalco, produces beloved Pagliaro wine. The family has been making wine since the 1500s. This tiny estate is a classic Italian fattoria experience - not only producing fine wine, but raising farm animals and working the land to produce olives, and other fruits and vegetables. The vineyards are cultivated organically, all grapes are harvested manually and all wines are bottled without fining or filtration.
No matter the vineyard you choose to visit, you will undoubtedly enjoy the experience.
4. Visit Italy’s Museums with Less Crowds
Room to explore
One of the major perks of visiting Italy in the fall is that you can explore its world-renowned museums and historical sites with fewer crowds. Enjoy the art and history of Italy at your own pace without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. See our new Florence apartments if the Renaissance peaks your interest. More of an eternal city lover? Unwind in our favorite place to stay in Rome- CasaCau. Just a stone’s throw from the Trevi fountain, this private townhouse has a exclusive feel and gives you access to the best sites that the eternal city has to offer. Pictured above is a hidden gem under the Trevi fountain known as vicus caprarius.
5. Shop for Hand-painted Ceramics
Gifts for the upcoming holidays
Italian ceramics are famous for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. The fall season is an ideal time to explore local artisan markets and shops, where you can find unique pottery and ceramics as souvenirs or gifts for the upcoming holiday season. Stay at one of our Umbrian villas and explore nearby Deruta, which is known for its hand painted ceramics.
6. Snag Quality Italian Leather
Something for everyone
Italy is renowned for its high-quality leather products, from shoes and bags to jackets and gloves. In the fall, you'll have the opportunity to shop for leather goods in boutiques and markets without the rush of summer shoppers. Those looking for a deal will find the Prada outlet in Montevarchi, and all the other designer outlets like Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana in nearby San Giovanni Val d'Arno (in the Valley of the Arno) south of Florence.
7. Autumn Festivals
Go back in time
Italy loves its festivals, and the fall season is no exception. From wine festivals in the vineyards of Piedmont to truffle fairs in Umbria, there are numerous events celebrating the season's bounties. These festivals offer a taste of Italian culture and cuisine in a festive atmosphere. The feast of Saint Francis of Assisi in October takes place in Umbria and is not to be missed.
8. Take a Swim on the Amalfi Coast
Jump in
You haven’t experienced true freedom until you’ve floated in an empty turquoise sea. Well into October, visitors can take a dip in the sea without the crowds or intense heat of the summer. See our Amalfi Coast villas for ideas on where to stay in southern Italy during the fall.
9. Eat Pumpkin Risotto
Seasonal Tables & Cozy Dinners
Still need a pumpkin fix? A hay ride in the pumpkin patch may be hard to come by, but Italy does offer an incredible selection of seasonally inspired dishes, and fall brings the delicious pumpkin risotto to the forefront. Savor this creamy and flavorful dish in a local trattoria for a true taste of autumn in Italy. Other favorites are truffle pasta and papardelle ai funghi.
Rent a Villa this fall
From truffle hunting in Tuscany to soaking in thermal hot springs, Italy's autumn charm is not to be missed. So, pack your bags and embrace the beauty, culture, and cuisine of Italy during this magical season. Contact us today to begin planning your trip.
One of the most common questions we receive is “when is the best time to visit Italy”? The answer depends on your individual needs, but certainly September, October and November are some of the most underrated months of the year to visit. While summer often steals the spotlight as the most popular time to explore Italy, there's something truly magical about experiencing this country during the fall. Here are a few uniquely Italian experiences during this beautiful time of year.