Visiting Italy in Spring: 15+ Best Things to do

As winter bids its farewell, Italy’s landscapes undergo a breathtaking transformation, adorned with vibrant blossoms and a renewed sense of life. You can discover the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness that Italy unveils during the spring season. It’s also considered the shoulder season in Italy, meaning the weather is usually nice, but the crowds aren’t as crazy compared to summertime.

Picture rolling hills carpeted with wildflowers, ancient cities bathed in gentle warmth, and outdoor cafes buzzing with the joyous chatter of locals and visitors alike. Spring in Italy is a sensory symphony, where the aroma of blooming flowers mingles with the tantalizing scents wafting from traditional trattorias.

From the iconic charm of cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice to the serene allure of the countryside, Italy in the spring offers a tapestry of experiences. I’ve partnered with other travel bloggers to bring you the best things to do in Italy in the spring so you can get out there and plan your dream trip!

Table of Contents show

1 Best Things to Do in Italy in Spring

1.1 Appreciate the Beauty of Lake Como

1.2 Capri Chair Lift & Hike

1.3 Celebrate Easter in Trapani

1.4 Emerald Grotto

1.5 Enjoy the Green in Umbria

1.6 Fall in Love with Florence

1.7 Go Cycling in Tuscany

1.8 Hike the Path of Gods near Naples

1.9 Hiking in Sardinia

1.10 Hiking near Lake Garda

1.11 Indulge in Agritourism in Emilia Romagna

1.12 Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

1.13 Portico of San Luca in Bologna

1.14 Roam Around the Eternal City, Rome

1.15 Visit South Tyrol

1.16 Visit Thermal Baths in Viterbo

1.17 Wine Tasting & Food Festivals in Tuscany

2 Save “Italy in Spring: Best Things to do” for Later

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Best Things to Do in Italy in Spring

Appreciate the Beauty of Lake Como

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty (as well as being the site of George Clooney’s summer home), Italy in spring is simply magical, and Lake Como is undoubtedly one of the best Italian destinations to visit during this season.

Unlike visiting Lake Como in the fall, spring visitors to the most famous lake in Lombardy will have the chance to explore Lake Como’s enchanting botanical gardens and witness them come to life in vibrant blooms. 

There are several stunning botanical gardens adorning the shores of Lake Como. One of the best is Villa Carlotta, located in Tremezzina. This magnificent garden showcases a wide variety of exotic plants and colorful flowers, including azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias. In the springtime, these gardens transform into a tapestry of vivid colors that you won’t soon forget. 

To experience more of Lake Como’s stunning spring blooms, wander through Villa Melzi d’Eril in Bellagio for rare plant species, sculptures, and scenic viewpoints. You’d also be remiss not to fit in a visit to the famous Gardens of Villa Balbianello, known for their immaculate design, picturesque setting, and for being filming locations for many major motion pictures like Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale. 

If botanical gardens aren’t number one on your Italian bucket list, Lake Como offers a wide variety of spring activities for every traveler. Test your sense of adventure on one of the area’s many hiking trails, rent a boat and cruise around the sparkling lake, or simply enjoy sipping delicious Italian wine with a beautiful view. Regardless of your travel style, Lake Como in the springtime is a treat for all the senses. 

Capri Chair Lift & Hike

Spring is one of the best times to visit Italy! If you head south to the Island of Capri you will be in for a treat! 

Capri is a short ferry ride from Naples or the Amalfi Coast. Access to the Island of Capri is only accessible from mid-April – October. Making a trip in the Spring is the best time because not only is the weather perfect, the crowds are lower before the busy summer tourist season hits.

The island is mostly known for the Blue Grotto, which is amazing, but another spring activity to consider is the Mount Solaro chair lift ride.  This is located on the Anacapri side of the island. (Where the locals live.)

The lift will take you to the top of the island in about 12 minutes.  The view is unbelievable! The viewpoint at the top of the mountain allows you to look out and see the entire island and the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.  There is a nice garden cafe with outside seating.  

You can take the lift back down but the better option (if you are able) is to hike down.  The path is absolutely gorgeous with Spring flowers. The hike down will take less than an hour to complete. It is 1.1 miles from top to bottom. 

The hike is not hard although in certain areas it can be steep.  Take your time and enjoy the views.  This is a fantastic way to spend enjoying the Spring in Italy.

Celebrate Easter in Trapani

Trapani is a charming port city in the West of Sicily, that truly comes alive during the springtime.

For a start, the weather in Trapani in Spring is pleasantly warm, which makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as exploring the Zingaro Nature Reserve. You can visit the Salt Pans just outside the city, take a relaxing break on Trapani’s beaches, island hop to Favignana or explore the hillside city of Erice. 

But what makes springtime particularly special in Trapani is the Easter Celebrations, known as the “Misteri di Trapani”. In 2024, this event will be taking place on April 5th. During this 24-hour-long procession, locals carry large sculptures through the streets, depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. It’s an emotional spectacle that beautifully captures the spirit and tradition of Trapani.

Outside of the Easter Parade, you can see the sculptures up close. They are on display at the Church of Purgatorio (Chiesa delle Anime Sante del Purgatorio). If you really want to delve deep into the cultural side of this festival, then visit the museum dedicated to the parade on Piazza Scarlatti. It contains memorabilia, costumes, posters and artefacts from the parades. 

Emerald Grotto

Located along the Amalfi coast, nestled in the side of the cliffs, is the Grotto della Smeraldo otherwise known as the Emerald Grotto. This cave is part of a karst landscape – meaning it was formed from a sinkhole created within the cracks of the limestone cliffs thousands of years ago and eventually flooded with seawater. The 24m high cave was found in 1932 by a fisherman and eventually evolved into a location for visitors to experience.

This spot is easily accessible a few kilometres from the city of Amalfi. There is a small parking lot located along the 163 highway. From here you can take either an elevator or staircase down to the entrance of the cave. Tickets can be purchased for €10 per person. 

The tour consists of a rowboat ride through the cave lasting approximately 20-25 minutes. The captain of the boat provides some background information on the grotto while gliding along the beautiful water. He also points out several of the stalactites and carvings within the cave giving amusing commentary on the possible interpretation of the shapes that have evolved from folklore over the years. And the group is then serenaded with an Italian song – quite the experience with the acoustics of the grotto.

It is wonderful to see the beautiful colour of the water. Italy in spring offers a better opportunity to see this area with calm seas and fewer waves so the crystal-clear water can be truly appreciated. This is particularly important to be able to see a nativity scene made from ceramic that resides on the bottom of the cave.

A beautiful hidden gem that is worth a quick stop along this stunning coastal area.

Enjoy the Green in Umbria

Springtime in Italy is a fabulous time of year with landscapes and scenery slowly turning green and colorful spring flowers making an appearance.

This time of year is especially vibrant in the Umbria, known as the “Green Heart of Italy”.

Much of Spring is a procession toward the sacred Christian holy day of Easter, and all of the major cities in Italy will hold traditional services during Holy Week, the week before Easter. Towns like Gubbio, Orvieto, and Assisi are some of the best places in Umbria to experience the significance of religious life in Italy.

In the small town of Assisi, the birth and resting place of St. Francis of Assisi, the processions and services of Easter week begin on Palm Sunday and continue through the ceremonies of Easter Sunday into La Pasquetta, or “Little Easter”, on Monday.

On Good Friday, the religious parade through the historic old town of Assisi dates to medieval times and is lit only by torches — it’s truly a sight to behold.

Easter Sunday in Umbria is celebrated by attending Mass and eating traditional Torta di Pasqua, capocollo (a piece of dried pork), boiled eggs, chocolate, and torcolo (a typical traditional Umbrian cake).In an Umbria Spring, the towns and surrounding woodlands and olive orchards around Assisi and Perugia — particularly those in the National Park of Mount Subasio — are picture perfect. You don’t have to wait for Easter however, to visit Assisi or the magnificent Basilica di San Francesco. You can hike the Park and enjoy the history and traditional foods and wines of beautiful Umbria year round.

Fall in Love with Florence

Dive into the Renaissance magic of Florence as spring breathes new life into this artistic haven. With the arrival of warmer temperatures, the city bursts forth in a kaleidoscope of colors, inviting you to explore its cultural treasures amidst blooming gardens and sunlit squares. It was the city I wasn’t expecting to love as much as I did.

As the sun graces the iconic Duomo and the Arno River sparkles, Florence’s historic streets become a tapestry of fragrant blossoms and vibrant markets. There are so many things to do in Florence, and this time of the year is perfect for exploring! Spring unveils the enchanting Boboli Gardens in full bloom, offering a serene escape where sculptures and fountains are framed by an explosion of flowers. Be sure to visit Piazza Michaelangelo for breathtaking views of the Duomo and city.

April and May in Florence bring a delightful cultural calendar, including the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, a renowned arts festival, and the historic Calcio Storico, a medieval sport played in Piazza Santa Croce.

Savor the seasonal delights of Tuscan cuisine as outdoor cafes beckon, providing the perfect setting to indulge in local delicacies amidst the charming ambiance. From the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery to the hidden gems of Oltrarno, Florence in springtime is an artistic crescendo, inviting you to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this Renaissance jewel. Don’t forget to walk Ponte Vecchio for all your shopping and souvenir needs (and gelato of course!)

Go Cycling in Tuscany

One of the best things to do in Italy in spring is to go cycling in the picturesque Tuscany region. Rolling hills, vineyards, and hilltop towns meet your eye as you pedal through the region, and in spring everything wakes up after the winter. The grass turns green, colorful flowers pop out, and the sun covers the valleys in a long-awaited warm glow. The temperature is perfect for cycling as it is not too hot as in summer and not too cold as in winter. You can rent a bike and explore individually, or you can hit up one of the many Tuscany bike tours that go around cities like Siena and Florence or small towns like San Gimignano.

The benefits of going as a group are that you can meet other travelers and the guide will take you to places you might not have discovered on your own. Many of these tours include a visit to a vineyard or small local wine business so that you can sample some of Tuscany’s finest wines.

If you are confident doing this on your own, you can ask at the tourist information or at the bike rental if there are any specific places they recommend that you visit nearby. If you are even more adventurous, you could spend several days cycling from town to town exploring larger parts of the region. If you do so, make sure you plan your route carefully, as accommodation gets snatched quickly in Tuscany in spring.

Hike the Path of Gods near Naples

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Italy’s nature and outdoor activities. There is a gorgeous part of Amalfi Coast which is not relying exclusively on dreamy beaches. One of the most hidden gems near Naples is the Path of Gods. If you have ever dreamed of walking on the high cliffs across lemon groves and greenery, between April and early June is the perfect time. The magnificent 8-kilometre trek follows ancient mule routes, which were once used for trading between the mountains and the towns. This hike, known in Italian as “Sentiero degli Dei”, begins in the hilltop town of Agerola, which is famous for its delicious mozzarella, and ends in Nocelle, situated just uphill of Positano.

You will walk on a trail for about 4 hours, sitting on an elevation between 250 and 400 metres above sea level. It is one of the easiest treks in Italy, suitable for elders and kids too. Families are more than welcome to spend a different day out on the Amalfi Coast in Spring. We suggest planning to spend 5 to 6 hours enjoying the endless landscape and the unique features, passing by cute stone houses and little farms on the terraces overlooking the coast. Spring is better than summer, as the temperature soaring up makes it less enjoyable and, of course, busier compared to the shoulder season.

Among the main attractions of the Hiking path, you will walk on top of the cliffs above Positano, the Fjord of Furore, Praiano and the beautiful Arienzo Beach. At the end of the path, you can extend the trail, getting down the cliff through a 1500-step staircase that leads to the awesome Arienzo and the nearby beach. For many, this is seen as a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Hiking in Sardinia

One of the best things to do in Italy in spring is hiking, and Sardinia is a great destination for that!

The second largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia is a popular summer holiday destination, but spring is definitely a better time to visit if you want to hike (as well as enjoy some time at the beach) as the temperatures are milder and perfect for spending time outdoors. That’s also when the island is in full bloom after the winter months, so it’s incredibly green, with lots of beautiful wildflowers.

There are all sorts of hikes you can do in Sardinia in the spring. Locals typically head to the coastal trails – there are various trails of varying difficulty along the long coast of the island that will allow you to take in breathtaking views of the clear Mediterranean Sea.

The most famous hike in Sardinia, however, is that to Su Gorropu Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in Europe. Various trails lead to the gorge. The most easily accessible one starts a bit outside Dorgali, a small town near Nuoro, in the center of Sardinia. This is the Sa Barca Bridge trail, which can be done independently. It is an out-and-back moderate for the most part that will take you to the gorge in about 2 to 3 hours. You will need to bring enough food and water for the hike and wear hiking shoes for this hike.

Hiking near Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy nested between Verona and Milan. Due to its central location in northern Italy, you can easily get to Lake Garda from major Italian cities such as Verona and Milan in the south and Trento and Bolzano in the north. Verona to Lake Garda is only a short bus drive away (less than an hour) which makes it possible to visit Lake Garda just as a day trip if you are short in time.

The best time to visit Lage Garda is May. It’s already warm enough to go swimming in the lake while still having pleasant temperatures (not too hot) for hiking and mountain biking.

In the north, Lake Garda is surrounded by mountains with great hiking trails, and in the south, it is surrounded by beautiful resort towns with medieval castles and wineries.

Hiking in spring around Lake Garda is a great experience. Not only do you get breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps, but you are also going to see meadows full of colorful flowers and Italian herbs. The best towns on Lake Garda for hiking and mountain biking are Riva del Garda and Malcesine. Here you will find several hiking trails. The most famous and beautiful hiking trails are Monte Baldo from Malcesine and Val del Ponale Loop from Riva del Garda.

If you are into wine tasting and visiting vineyards, then head to the south. Bardolino and Sirmione are the most famous towns on Lake Garda for wine production. Here you will also find the best beaches. The temperature in the south of the lake is a bit higher than in the north making it a perfect destination for swimming in spring before the main season starts.

Indulge in Agritourism in Emilia Romagna

Italy is well-known for its food, but there is one region which stands out for its gastronomy and that’s Emilia Romagna. Many of Italy’s best-loved dishes and produce originated here, and have since taken the world by storm. We’re talking about tortellini pasta, Parma ham, Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and Lambrusco wine. 

If you’re travelling to Italy in spring, why not indulge your foodie side and explore some of the best food and wine producers in Emilia Romagna? This type of agritourism (tourism which supports rural livelihoods) is best in spring as temperatures are mild plus the region’s fertile hills are blooming with peach and cherry blossom.  

Learn the secrets behind authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano at Hombre Farm, an organic cheese producer near Modena. See the warehouse where the ‘King of Cheese’ is aged and pop into the farm shop to pick up hunks of cheese at an affordable price. 

Another must-try is balsamic vinegar. Traditional balsamic vinegar doesn’t have a sharp taste. It’s sweet and thick with complex flavours. This is because it takes a minimum of 12 years to mature. Some are left to age for 25 and even 50 years. For businesses, it’s a project that’s done on the side when producing wine. 

One such place is Agriturismo Opera 2, a wine estate with a vinegar factory, restaurant and hotel. They offer vinegar tastings with cheese and a factory tour. Add Lambrusco with prosciutto for a true taste of the region. 

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

Looking for the best spring experiences in Italy? Head to the Campania region for a tryst with history and nature.

Located only an hour away from the city of Naples, the ruins of Pompeii, an ancient Roman city, are best explored in the spring months of March–May.

Engulfed in the volcanic ashes of Mt. Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today and home to many historic attractions including a Forum, the Temple of Apollo, granaries and ancient kitchens, and many impressive Roman houses. An unmissable (and incredibly moving) thing to do in Pompeii is to see the preserved plaster cast of victims of the Vesuvius eruption which takes you right back to the day of the eruption.

It is easy to visit Pompeii from Naples and combine it with a Mt. Vesuvius hike to make a full day.  

Spring is the best time to visit Pompeii and Vesuvius because crowds are thinner and average temperatures drift between the 50s and 70s. This is the perfect season to explore the open-air ruins of Pompeii where there’s little shade and a lot of walking involved. It is also the best time to hike Mt. Vesuvius without having to huff and puff through the summer heat.

Spring is also the shoulder season in Campania which means accommodation and tours are cheaper and more readily available.

Portico of San Luca in Bologna

Bologna, Italy is one of the most underrated destinations in Italy. This Italian city is known for its world-renowned cuisine, medieval architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage porticoes. 

There are over 62km of porticoes (covered walkways) in Bologna, and the longest portico in the world is called the “Portico of San Luca.”

Italy in spring is a magical experience, and one of the best spring activities to do in Bologna is to walk from the center of Bologna all the way to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca atop the Colle della Guardia hill. This famous portico walk takes around 1.5 hours one-way, and it’s best to do in the spring when the weather is mild. 

Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, you can take the San Luca Express Train to the top and back from Piazza Maggiore in the historic center. The ride takes 20-30 minutes each way and saves you the hassle of walking.

Additionally, on Easter Monday, one of the traditions is for locals to walk up the Portico of San Luca. If you can plan your trip around Easter weekend, this is a wonderful way to experience the unique culture of Bologna with the locals. 

Roam Around the Eternal City, Rome

Embrace the timeless allure of Rome as it comes to life in the gentle embrace of spring. The Eternal City, adorned with blossoming flowers and bathed in a soft, golden light, welcomes visitors with open arms during this enchanting season. As winter recedes, Rome’s historic landmarks, from the Colosseum to the Vatican, stand against a backdrop of azure skies and lush greenery. Be sure to spend at least three days in Rome so you have enough time to see the highlights. The weather in spring, and low crowds, mean you get to explore more with more space.

Spring in Rome unveils a city reborn, offering the perfect climate for leisurely strolls along cobbled streets and meandering through charming piazzas. Cafés spill onto sun-dappled terraces, inviting you to savor authentic Italian espresso while soaking in the captivating ambiance. In spring, the weather is cool enough in the morning for a hot coffee, but warm enough in the afternoon for a gelato.

The city’s famed gardens, such as Villa Borghese, burst into a riot of colors, providing a serene escape from the urban hustle. Explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel without the summer crowds, allowing for a more intimate connection with Michelangelo’s masterpieces.

Culinary delights also flourish in spring, with local markets showcasing an abundance of seasonal produce. Indulge in the flavors of fresh artichokes, strawberries, and tender asparagus, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Visit South Tyrol

South Tyrol is the northernmost province in Italy, known for its pristine alpine nature and dazzling landscapes. Especially, the Dolomites attract hiking enthusiasts from all over the world. Yet, the region has so many more stunning areas to explore. The snow melt usually starts to take place by March, and the result is crystal clear mountain streams and the awakening of region-specific mountain flora.

Green meadows are dotted with a carpet of yellow, white, and pink springtime flowers, which are in full bloom between the end of April and the beginning of May. Picture-perfect memories can be created at the resia lake, with the submerged bell tower in the lake and the snow-capped mountains as a background. A hike up the mountains will get you closer to untouched nature.

One of these lesser frequented hiking trails, and a true travel gem, is the Schlinig waterfall, located in a wildlife sanctuary above the Schlinig village. The snow melt intensifies the size of this naturally formed waterfall, which is situated at 7000 feet (2,100 m) above sea level. Hire a mountain bike or, even better, an e-bike to discover the valleys and regional small villages. Special cycling trails take you across forests, along rivers, to castles, abbeys and through small old towns. Spring is the best time for a cycling and hiking tours because the temperatures are pleasant, and the views are all the more special, thanks to nature’s reawakening in spring.

Visit Thermal Baths in Viterbo

For foreign travelers, one of the most unusual things to do in Italy in spring is to relax in natural thermal baths, which abound in this country. Spring is the perfect season to enjoy this rejuvenating activity. Northern Lazio is one of the richest areas for very hot thermal springs, which bubble up from the earth at about 60° and then are regulated to be enjoyed at 40°.

Visiting thermal pools is one of the best things to do in Viterbo, a city of well-preserved medieval architecture with defensive walls, towers, and stone houses.

The most famous Spa is Terme dei Papi, which features a monumental thermal pool of about 2,000 square meters. In high season, from January to April, admission to the pool costs €20 for 3 hours and €30 for the whole day.

A quieter but no less beautiful thermal spa is Therma Oasi, located a few kilometers north of Viterbo. Lovers of free-access natural thermal pools will be happy, too. In fact, you can access the Bullicame and the Piscine Carletti pools 24h for free; they are located just outside Viterbo’s historic center.

If you decide to visit the free thermal baths, bring with you everything you need to change outdoors and water to rehydrate between baths.

You can reach Viterbo by Trenitalia train from major Italian cities. Once you arrive in Viterbo, take a local bus to the spa area. The nearest international airport is Rome Fiumicino Airport.

Wine Tasting & Food Festivals in Tuscany

What better way to discover Italy than through its food and wine and there is no better time than the low and mid season in Tuscany when these activities come to life for a short period. 

Although wine tasting in areas such as Montalcino and Montepulciano take place year-round, they are particularly well paired with local food festivals known as sagre that only take place for one or two weeks in the springtime, highlighting a seasonal, regional food or dish. 

For Spring travel in March, April and May, plan an afternoon visit at one of Montalcino or Montepulciano’s famous wineries on the weekend such as Winery Conti Costanti or Avignonesi, both of which offer various wine experiences including cooking classes, dinners, light lunches, tastings and tours. At both wineries, and at most others, should you choose a different winery, the tour and tastings need to be pre-booked online or via email.

Most local food festivals serve dinner (sometimes lunch) on the weekends, perfectly timed to fit into your schedule after an afternoon wine tasting. Look for sagras around Montalcino and Montepulciano, choosing based on what foods interest you. 

A typical evening at a sagra in Tuscany during this time of year will involve a large selection of regional foods, in particular a specific one, such as truffle, local pig, hand made pasta, gnocchi, regional bread or even seasonal fruits followed by some form of entertainment. This might be dancing, a performance, or a DJ set. 

Sagras are one of the best ways to visit Italy through the eyes and perspective of locals. It’s not only a great opportunity to taste regional specialties but also take part in the Italian communities that depend on these festivals to support them year-round.

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