Northern Italy in the fall transforms into a tapestry of vibrant colours and rich scents, offering unique and enriching experiences that are exclusive to this magical season. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the serene lakes of Lombardy, the landscapes are adorned with autumnal hues, creating a wondrous backdrop for walks and scenic drives.
Fall is also the season of harvest festivals and truffle hunts, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions and savour the freshly unearthed truffles. Additionally, the cooler weather provides the perfect opportunity to explore charming medieval towns and historic cities without the crowds that summer brings, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Northern Italy in the fall offers a truly unique and captivating experience that cannot be replicated at any other time of the year!
Take in the essence of Milan
Being Milan such an iconic city, your journey through Northern Italy should include activities that capture the essence of Milan's rich history, lively culture, and culinary delights.
You can start your adventure by touring the iconic Duomo di Milano, one of the most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in the world. The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the rooftop terraces, where you can walk among the cathedral's ornate pinnacles and enjoy panoramic views of the city. On a clear autumn day, the vistas extend to the snow-capped Alps!
Next, head to the alluring Navigli District, renowned for its picturesque canals. As night falls, the district comes alive with vibrant nightlife, offering an array of bars, traditional osterias, and trendy restaurants where you can enjoy aperitivo, the Milanese pre-dinner tradition.
Have a Bicerin in Turin
Turin offers its own perfect blend of cultural richness, historical grandeur, and delightful culinary experiences.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Mole Antonelliana, Turin's iconic landmark. As you ascend to the top via a panoramic elevator, you will be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the city and the surrounding Alps, their peaks often dusted with early snow in the fall. Visit to the Royal Palace of Turin, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Let’s talk about food again, or a delicious drink! Turin is renowned for its artisanal chocolatiers and as the Autumn air turns crisp, there is no better way to warm up than with a traditional Bicerin - a quintessential Turin experience.
Cheers with sparkling Asti wine
You have arrived in Asti, an ideal destination for an enriching and relaxing getaway, with a lot of wine in the mix! Asti is renowned for its sparkling Asti Spumante and robust Barbera wines, both of which reach their peak flavour in the fall. Do not miss a tour through the local wineries. Witness the grape harvest in full swing and taste its exquisite wines.
Asti's medieval old town is a picturesque area that seems to have been preserved in time. The town's rich history is palpable as you explore its ancient towers, arcades, narrow cobblestone streets, and piazzas. A highlight of your walk will be a visit to the Asti Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
Visit a winery in Barbaresco
Next on your itinerary is Barbaresco, another location renowned for its world-class wines and unparalleled landscapes! A tour of the local wineries is mandatory here as well. As you step into the historic cellars, you will learn about the meticulous winemaking process. Enjoy exclusive tastings, guided by experts who share their passion and knowledge.
After indulging in the exquisite wines, take a walk through the vineyards and focus on the magnificent landscapes, with its rolling hills painted in vibrant hues of red, orange and gold. As you meander through the rows of grapevines, the crisp autumn air and the scent of ripe grapes create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Truffle hunt in Alba
Autumn in Alba is a season of culinary delight and historical exploration, particularly popular for its prized truffles !
Begin your visit by immersing yourself in the world of gourmet indulgence at the Alba White Truffle Fair, one of the most celebrated food festivals in Italy. For a hands-on experience, participate in a truffle hunting excursion. Join local truffle hunters and their trained dogs as they venture into the scenic woodlands surrounding Alba in search of these elusive treasures. The excitement of uncovering a hidden truffle, coupled with the beauty of the surroundings, makes this a truly fun and unforgettable adventure!
Savour a slow meal in Bra
Located in the heart of Italy's Piedmont region, Bra is a charming town known for its rich culinary heritage as the birthplace of the Slow Food movement. The town is internationally known for its commitment to preserving traditional and regional cuisine, granting an authentic taste of Italy. To honour these efforts, dine at traditional osterias and enjoy hearty meals that celebrate the true taste and culinary heritage of the region.
After eating, it is time to explore! A historic highlight is the beautiful Church of Santa Chiara, an exquisite example of Baroque architecture. Admire the church’s stunning façade and intricately decorated interior. Wandering through Bra’s charming streets, you will encounter other historical gems that reveal the town’s storied past.
Taste the finest wines in Barolo
Barolo is a charming village, sought-after for its amazing wines and scenic beauty (sounds familiar, right?). Similar to Barbaresco, Barolo produces some of the finest Nebbiolo wines and invites you to visit ancient cellars, taste acclaimed wines, and learn about the traditional winemaking methods.
Make sure to visit the majestic Barolo Castle, a landmark that commands attention with its historical grandeur. The castle houses the Wine Museum (WiMu), where you can delve into the fascinating history and culture of winemaking in the region. The panoramic views from the castle grounds, especially adorned in autumnal colours, are simply wonderful!
Cruise the Maggiore Lake
A visit to Lago Maggiore is always a symphony of bright colours and serene beauty no matter the time of year. However, Autumn transforms this enchanting destination into a tapestry of golden hues and crisp, clear days, making it a perfect destination amidst the changing seasons.
Tour to the magnificent Isola Bella, one of the Borromean Islands, and home to the grand Borromeo Palace, an architectural masterpiece adorned with opulent rooms and exquisite art collections. A scenic boat ride around Lago Maggiore allows you to take in the beauty of the lake and explore other enchanting Borromean Islands, each with its own unique allure.
Start planning your Autumn getaway
Northern Italy offers a rich tapestry of experiences in the fall! From the fun harvest festivals celebrating culinary treasures to the world-renowned wine regions, there is something to captivate everyone’s senses. We invite you to uncover this diverse array of cultural delights and natural wonders on a trip to Italy! Let us help you create an Italian escape and soon you will be wandering through medieval streets, tasting exquisite wines, or relaxing in the serene Lago Maggiore, surrounded by the vibrant colours of autumn foliage!
