10 Unique Places to Visit in Italy Our Travel Specialists Love

Nestled high in the Dolomite Mountains lies the stunning alpine resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the undisputed "Queen of the Dolomites." Pedestrian-only cobblestone streets lined with vibrantly colored chalets, upscale shops, and charming cafés reveal the town’s timeless appeal. Whether blanketed in snow or lush with summer greenery, Cortina captures the essence of an idyllic Italian mountain escape, blending high glamour with rugged natural beauty.

Historical Immersion

• Austro-Hungarian Heritage: Part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918, Cortina retains a unique blend of Italian and Germanic culture, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
• Olympic Host City: Having hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, Cortina cemented its status as a world-class winter sports destination.
• Great War Battleground: The surrounding mountains were the front lines of fierce battles between Italy and Austria-Hungary during World War I, with remnants of trenches and forts now accessible via hiking trails.
• Elite Alpine Retreat: For over a century, Cortina has been a favored destination for European royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers, cultivating an atmosphere of sophisticated leisure.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the chic alpine glamour and breathtaking mountain scenery, where thrilling outdoor adventure meets refined relaxation.
• Feel the crisp, clean mountain air on your face, the crunch of fresh powder under your skis, and the invigorating warmth of a sauna after a long day of hiking. Take a look at our Italy in Winter: Where to Go, What to do, the Weather, and More for further information on visiting the country at this time of year.
• Taste hearty alpine cuisine like bread dumplings, rich venison stews, and local cheeses, followed by a warming glass of grappa.
• Hear the rhythmic sound of skis carving down pristine slopes, the distant clang of cowbells in summer meadows, and the cheerful buzz of après-ski chatter.
• See the dramatic pink and orange glow of the Dolomite peaks at sunset, the crystal-clear waters of alpine lakes, and the elegant boutiques along Corso Italia.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Dolomiti Superski Circuit: Access this vast network of interconnected ski slopes, offering hundreds of miles of world-class terrain for all skill levels.
• Vista delle Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Witness the iconic and breathtaking view of these three monumental peaks, one of the most famous symbols of the Dolomites.
• Rifugio Antonio Locatelli: Hike to this classic mountain refuge for unparalleled close-up views of the Tre Cime and a taste of authentic alpine hospitality.
• Sorgenti del Fiume Rienza: Take a peaceful walk to discover the pristine springs that form the source of the Rienza River.
• Pragser Wildsee: A short drive from Cortina, visit this stunningly beautiful emerald-green lake, famous for its dramatic mountain backdrop and wooden rowboats.

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Conquer the slopes and soak in alpine glamour on a custom-designed Best Ski Holiday: Italy and the Dolomites.

Sitting on Italy’s northeastern border with Slovenia, the port city of Trieste is a fusion of Italian, Slavic, and Central European influences. Grand piazzas are filled with Viennese-style coffeehouses, while ornate palaces exhibit many architectural styles. The city's beautiful seaside promenade accentuates the meandering lanes of the medieval old town. With its storied history and access to the dramatic Carso plateau, Trieste feels like a small country within Italy.

Historical Immersion

• Habsburg Imperial Port: For centuries, Trieste was the primary seaport of the powerful Austro-Hungarian Empire and its grand architecture reflects this prosperous Viennese past.
• Literary Haven: The city was a haven for expatriate writers in the early 20th century, most notably James Joyce, who wrote parts of Ulysses here.
• A Cultural Crossroads: Situated at the intersection of Latin, Slavic, and Germanic worlds, Trieste boasts a unique multicultural identity, dialect, and cuisine.
• Cold War Frontier: As a border city, it was a sensitive and strategic location throughout the 20th century, adding a layer of intrigue to its recent history.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the grand, Mitteleuropean atmosphere of a city that feels more like Vienna than Rome, with a rich coffeehouse culture and maritime soul.
• Feel the powerful bora wind sweeping in from the Adriatic, the intellectual energy in a historic café, and the smooth marble of grand Hapsburg-era buildings.
• Taste expertly brewed coffee in a historic café, fresh seafood from the Adriatic, and dishes with Slavic and Austrian influences, like goulash and bread dumplings.
• Hear the clinking of coffee cups and the murmur of intellectual debate, the cry of seagulls over the harbor, and the unique, melodic Triestine dialect.
• See the magnificent Piazza Unità d'Italia opening onto the sea, the fairy-tale Miramare Castle perched on a cliff, and the mix of Roman ruins and medieval structures.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Piazza Unità d'Italia: Stand in one of Europe's largest sea-facing squares, surrounded by magnificent palaces and open to the Adriatic Sea.
• Castello di Miramare: Explore this stunning 19th-century castle, the former home of Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, set in beautiful seaside gardens.
• Castello di San Giusto and Cattedrale di San Giusto: Climb the hill to the city's ancient heart to explore the castle and the cathedral, which uniquely incorporates two older churches.
• Canale Grande: Stroll along the charming canal that cuts into the city center, reminiscent of Venice and lined with beautiful buildings and lively cafés.

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Italian and Viennese culture on our Unexplored Northern Italy Tour: A Different Side of Italy.

Nuoro feels like the physical and metaphorical heart of Sardinia, a gateway to the island's rugged and mysterious interior. Perched on the slopes of Monte Ortobene, the town will treat you to panoramic views of stunning granite peaks and lush forests. Its medieval Old Town transports you back in time, while annual costumed parades immerse you in age-old traditions. Known for its hearty cuisine, Nuoro offers a truly authentic Sardinian experience.

Historical Immersion

• The "Sardinian Athens": In the early 20th century, Nuoro was a vibrant cultural hub, home to many of Sardinia's most important artists and writers, including Nobel laureate Grazia Deledda.
• Center of Barbagia: As the main city of the Barbagia region, Nuoro is the keeper of Sardinia's most ancient and deeply rooted traditions, from polyphonic singing to Carnival masks.
• Pastoral Heritage: The city's culture and cuisine are deeply connected to the pastoral traditions of the surrounding mountains, focusing on sheep farming and hardy agriculture.
• Resistance to Invaders: The mountainous interior around Nuoro was historically a stronghold of resistance against various invaders of Sardinia, helping to preserve a unique and fiercely independent culture.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the authentic, untamed heart of Sardinian culture, where ancient traditions are a part of daily life and the landscape is wild and powerful.
• Feel the ruggedness of the granite mountains, the strong sense of community pride, and the mystery of ancient festivals and rituals.
• Taste the quintessential Sardinian dish, roast suckling pig, savory pecorino cheese, hearty flatbread, and nougat.
• Hear the haunting, guttural sounds of canto a tenore, a UNESCO-recognized form of polyphonic folk singing.
• See the fascinating and sometimes fearsome traditional masks of the Sardinian Carnival, which normally takes place in February and March, panoramic views from Monte Ortobene, and shepherds herding their flocks in the countryside.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Museo delle Maschere Mediterranee: Visit the nearby town of Mamoiada to see this fascinating museum dedicated to the mysterious and ancient wooden masks used in Carnival celebrations.
• Monte Ortobene: Drive or hike to the summit of Nuoro's mountain for breathtaking panoramic views and a visit to the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
• Piazza Sebastiano Satta: Relax in this unique piazza, designed by artist Costantino Nivola, featuring small bronze statues set among granite boulders.
• Rione Santu Predu: Wander through the narrow, winding stone streets of Nuoro's oldest district, the birthplace of writer Grazia Deledda.
• Madonna delle Grazie Church: Admire this beautiful 17th-century church, a significant site of pilgrimage and one of the finest examples of late-Gothic architecture in Sardinia.

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Explore the untamed heart of Sardinia and its ancient traditions on a custom-tailored One-Week Sardinia and Corsica Island Tour.

Enchanting, tranquil, and woven into the center of Italy's "green heart," Umbria, Lake Trasimeno offers picturesque islands and medieval lakeside towns. The shallow, placid blue lake is surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and sunflower fields. Cycle or walk the pathways around its perimeter or explore its three islands by kayak. History comes alive in the well-preserved castles built to protect ancient trade routes, offering a dreamy and authentic escape into the Italian countryside.

Historical Immersion

• Site of Hannibal's Triumph: In 217 BC, the shores of the lake were the site of a major battle where Hannibal's Carthaginian army ambushed and decisively defeated the Roman legions.
• Strategic Papal State Territory: During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the lake and its surroundings were strategic territories controlled by powerful families and, later, the Papal States, leading to the construction of numerous castles.
• Island Life: The lake's largest island, Isola Maggiore, has been inhabited for centuries and maintains the feel of a 15th-century fishing village, once visited by St. Francis of Assisi.
• A Landscape of Painters: The serene beauty of the lake and its soft light inspired the Renaissance painter Perugino, the teacher of Raphael, whose works often feature this landscape.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the peaceful, gentle beauty of central Italy's largest lake, a tranquil alternative to the more crowded northern lakes.
• Feel the warm sun and gentle breeze on a ferry ride to one of the islands, the soft earth of the lakeside trails under your feet, and the serene tranquility of a medieval fishing village.
• Taste fresh fish from the lake, such as perch and eel, expertly prepared at a lakeside trattoria and paired with the local Colli del Trasimeno DOC wine.
• Hear the gentle lapping of water against the shore, the distant chugging of fishing boats, and the cheerful sounds of life in the charming lakeside towns.
• See the reflections of fortified medieval towns in the calm water, olive groves shimmering on the islands, and spectacular sunsets that paint the lake in hues of orange and purple.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Isola Maggiore: Take a ferry to this charming, inhabited island to explore its tiny fishing village, walk its peaceful olive-tree-lined paths, and visit the 14th-century Guglielmi Castle.
• Passignano sul Trasimeno: Wander through this picturesque lakeside town with its impressive medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the lake.
• Polvese Island: Explore the lake's largest island, now a public park and nature reserve, with a beautiful fortress, monastery, and lovely beaches.
• Castiglione del Lago: Discover this stunning town built on a limestone promontory, dominated by the magnificent medieval "Fortress of the Lion."
• Vernazzano: See the leaning medieval tower, partially submerged in the lake's waters, creating a unique and photogenic landmark.

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Discover the serene beauty of Italy's “green heart” with Zicasso’s Heart and Soul of Italy Tour: Umbria to Abruzzo.

Nestled between the towering Apennine Mountains in northeast Umbria, the Valnerina Valley will captivate you with breathtaking alpine scenery, cascading waterfalls, and charming hilltop villages. Trails wind through Monti Sibillini National Park, where flower-filled meadows give way to rocky peaks, and the mighty Cascata delle Marmore plunges into an emerald gorge. Medieval hamlets like Visso and Norcia showcase artisanal shops and famous truffle delicacies, offering a taste of a spectacular and lesser-known side of Italy.

Historical Immersion

• The Land of Saints: This valley has a deep spiritual history, being the birthplace of saints like St. Benedict and St. Rita of Cascia, with monasteries and sanctuaries dotting the landscape.
• Norcineria: The town of Norcia is so famous for its pork butchery that the Italian word for this craft, norcineria, is derived from its name. This tradition dates back centuries.
• Roman Engineering: The valley is home to the Cascata delle Marmore, a man-made waterfall created by the ancient Romans in 271 BC to drain wetlands, making it an incredible feat of ancient engineering.
• A Landscape of Legends: The surrounding Sibillini Mountains are steeped in folklore and pagan legends, most famously that of the mythical sorceress, the Sibyl.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the dramatic, unspoiled wilderness of Umbria's "green heart," a region of high peaks, deep gorges, and profound spirituality.
• Feel the powerful spray of Europe's tallest man-made waterfall on your skin, the cool, crisp air on a mountain hike, and the ancient stone of a remote hermitage.
• Taste the world-renowned black truffles and cured pork products from Norcia, lentils from Castelluccio, and wild-foraged ingredients from the mountains.
• Hear the thunderous roar of the Marmore Falls, the peaceful silence of a high-altitude meadow, and the bells of ancient abbeys echoing through the valley.
• See the spectacular flowering on the plains of Castelluccio in late spring and charming, fortified medieval villages clinging to hillsides.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Marmore Falls: Witness the awe-inspiring power of this massive, three-tiered waterfall and explore the surrounding park through its scenic trails.
• Sanctuary of Santa Rita da Cascia: Visit this important pilgrimage site dedicated to the "saint of the impossible," a beautiful modern basilica in the heart of the mountains.
• Norcia: Explore this historic town, the birthplace of St. Benedict, famous for its incredible food shops selling truffles, prosciutto, and other local delicacies.
• Castelluccio di Norcia: Visit this village perched high above a vast plateau that, in late spring and early summer, transforms into a breathtaking carpet of colorful wildflowers.
• Visso and the Monti Sibillini National Park: Use this charming town as a base for exploring the stunning hiking trails and pristine nature of the national park.

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Witness thundering waterfalls and taste the famous flavors of Norcia on our Culinary Delights of Umbria: Food, Wine, and More tour.

The captivating region of Tuscia, just north of Rome, feels worlds away from the capital's crowds. Tuscia transports you back in time with a string of medieval hill towns overlooking a rolling, lush countryside. It is a land of volcanic lakes, ancient forests, and deep history, most notably as the heartland of the pre-Roman Etruscan civilization. Its painted tombs, lavish Renaissance palaces, and otherworldly gardens make it a land of unique discovery.

Historical Immersion

• Heart of Etruria: Tuscia was the center of the Etruscan civilization and the region is dotted with their vast necropolises. They feature tombs with astonishingly preserved, vibrant frescoes.
• Papal Stronghold: In the Middle Ages, the city of Viterbo served as a papal residence and its well-preserved medieval quarter reflects this period of importance.
• Renaissance Villas and Gardens: Powerful Renaissance families built magnificent palaces and gardens here, including the famous and bizarre "Monster Park" of Bomarzo.
• The "Dying City": Home to the breathtaking Civita di Bagnoregio, a tiny village perched precariously on a collapsing volcanic plateau, accessible only by a long footbridge.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in a mysterious and beautiful landscape rich with the secrets of the Etruscans, the power of Renaissance cardinals, and the charm of undiscovered Italy.
• Feel the cool, damp air inside an ancient Etruscan tomb, the volcanic soil underfoot, and the sense of wonder while exploring the surreal statues of Bomarzo.
• Taste the region's excellent olive oil, chestnuts from the Cimini hills, and the crisp Est! Est!! Est!!! white wine from Montefiascone.
• Hear the wind whistling across the plateau at Civita di Bagnoregio and the quiet echoes of history in the medieval streets of Viterbo.
• See the vibrant, 2,500-year-old paintings in the Etruscan tombs of Tarquinia, the dramatic silhouette of Civita di Bagnoregio, the monstrous stone sculptures of Bomarzo, and the opulent pentagonal Villa Farnese.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Civita di Bagnoregio: Walk the footbridge to this stunning and surreal "dying city" for an unforgettable experience and incredible photos.
• Tarquinia Necropolis: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site to see the incredible painted tombs that offer a vivid window into Etruscan life and beliefs.
• Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola: Visit this massive and magnificent 16th-century pentagonal palace, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture with stunning frescoes and gardens.
• Bomarzo "Monster Park”: Wander through this surreal garden filled with grotesque and oversized stone sculptures of monsters and mythical creatures.
• Viterbo: Explore the beautifully preserved medieval quarter of San Pellegrino and the Papal Palace, the site of the first-ever papal conclave.

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Step back in time to the world of the Etruscans and explore surreal gardens on our Best of Greater Rome Tour: Wonders of Lazio.

The hilltop town of Palestrina overlooks the Roman countryside. It has a profound depth of history and a relaxed pace. As you explore its narrow cobblestone streets, you will uncover treasures from medieval architecture. The town's true star is the colossal Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, an ancient oracular site built into the hillside. Palestrina offers a delightful exploration for the senses, with layers of history to uncover and a sublime setting to soak up.

Historical Immersion

• Ancient Praeneste: Before Rome's rise, Palestrina was a powerful Latin city and a major religious center.
• Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia: Home to one of the most magnificent and technically ambitious religious complexes of the late Roman Republic, a massive terraced structure dedicated to the goddess of fortune.
• Birthplace of a Composer: The town is the birthplace of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, one of the most important composers of the Renaissance. His work defined sacred polyphonic music.
• A Continuous Settlement: The modern town is built directly on top of and within the ruins of the ancient sanctuary, creating a unique and visible layering of history.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in a town where ancient Roman grandeur is literally the foundation for daily life, offering a palpable connection to 2,500 years of history just outside Rome.
• Feel the awe of standing on the high terraces of an ancient Roman sanctuary, the smooth, cool stone of medieval buildings, and the relaxed pace of life in a small Italian town.
• Taste the simple and delicious cuisine of the Lazio countryside, accompanied by a glass of crisp white wine from the nearby Frascati region. Try Cacio e Pepe, one of our 4 Dishes to Try on Your Trip to Lazio.
• Hear the music of the great composer Palestrina in a local church and the cheerful greetings of locals in the winding alleyways.
• See the magnificent scale of the ancient sanctuary, the world-famous Nile Mosaic depicting life along the river, and stunning panoramic views of the countryside stretching towards Rome.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia: Explore the immense ruins of this ancient Roman sanctuary, climbing its terraces to the top for the best views.
• National Archaeological Museum of Palestrina: Located in the Renaissance Colonna-Barberini Palace at the sanctuary's summit, this museum houses local artifacts, most notably the stunning and intricate Nile Mosaic of Palestrina.
• Colonna-Barberini Palace: Admire the beautiful palace that was built atop the ancient sanctuary, now home to the archaeological museum.
• Church of Santa Rosalia: Visit this Baroque church, which contains the tombs of the Barberini family and showcases beautiful artworks.

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Uncover the monumental history of the Roman Republic when you add Lazio to a Romantic Italy Getaway: Art, Food, Gondolas, and More.

Sitting in Italy’s northeast Friuli region, the city of Udine is a sensational blend of medieval charm, Venetian elegance, and celebrated cuisine. Cafés bustling with locals line grand piazzas dominated by Venetian-Gothic architecture and the city’s castle offers panoramic views. The culinary scene is a major draw, featuring delicacies like the prized San Daniele prosciutto. With easy access to the Julian Alps and historic towns, Udine is an undiscovered gem.

Historical Immersion

• Venetian Influence: For centuries, Udine was under the control of the Republic of Venice, and its architecture, particularly in the Piazza della Libertà, strongly reflects this elegant Venetian heritage.
• Patriarchate of Aquileia: The city served as the seat of the powerful Patriarchs of Aquileia, a state that ruled the region for centuries, leaving behind a legacy of art and power.
• Tiepolo's City: The great 18th-century Venetian painter Giambattista Tiepolo spent a significant period in Udine, leaving behind a spectacular collection of frescoes in the Patriarchal Palace.
• Friulian Culture: Udine is the cultural capital of Friuli, a region with its own distinct language and traditions, offering a unique identity separate from the rest of Italy.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the refined elegance of a "Venice on the mainland," enjoying its beautiful piazzas, rich art history, and exceptional food and wine scene without the crowds.
• Feel the smooth stone of Venetian-style loggias, the lively atmosphere of a local osteria, and the sense of civic pride in this beautiful city.
• Taste world-famous San Daniele prosciutto and the excellent white wines of the Friuli region, such as Friulano and Ribolla Gialla.
• Hear the melodic sounds of the Friulian language spoken by locals and the gentle clinking of wine glasses in the bustling Piazza San Giacomo.
• See the breathtaking frescoes by Tiepolo, the graceful Venetian architecture of Piazza della Libertà, and the panoramic views of the Alps from the castle hill.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Piazza della Libertà: Admire what is often called the "most beautiful Venetian square on the mainland," with its stunning Loggia del Lionello and Clock Tower.
• Loggia di San Giovanni: See the beautiful Renaissance loggia and chapel adjoining the clock tower, designed to echo the one in Venice's St. Mark's Square.
• Udine Castle: Walk up the hill to the castle, which houses the Civic Museums, and enjoy commanding views over the city and towards the distant Julian Alps.
• Day trip to Cividale del Friuli: Visit this nearby UNESCO World Heritage town, the former capital of the first Lombard duchy in Italy, known for its Devil's Bridge and Lombard Temple.
• Day trip to Aquileia: Explore the vast archaeological area and patriarchal basilica of this ancient Roman city, another UNESCO site, famous for its stunning mosaic floor.

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Indulge in world-class prosciutto and admire Tiepolo's masterpieces on a tailored Cultural Exploration Family Tour of Northern Italy.

The sunny island of Lipari, the largest and most vibrant of the Aeolian archipelago, rises out of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Its relaxed ambiance features enchanting coastal scenery, delectable cuisine, and adventures on land and sea. The main town is a colorful maze of streets huddled beneath a fortified acropolis, its castle clinging to volcanic rock high above the sea. From relaxing on quiet beaches to exploring ancient history, Lipari offers a sublime slice of la dolce vita island-style.

Historical Immersion

• Neolithic Obsidian Hub: In prehistoric times, Lipari was a center of the Mediterranean obsidian trade, as the volcanic glass was a vital material for making sharp tools.
• Ancient Greek Colony: The island, known as Lipara, was an important Greek colony, and its acropolis has been continuously fortified for thousands of years.
• Volcanic Archipelago: As the administrative hub of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lipari's history is intrinsically linked to the volcanic activity that formed the entire archipelago.
• Archaeological Treasure Trove: The island's long history of settlement has made it a rich source of archaeological finds, showcased in its outstanding museum.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in the laid-back, sun-drenched atmosphere of the largest Aeolian island, a perfect base for exploring the volcanic archipelago.
• Feel the fine, dark volcanic sand on its beaches, the chalky texture of pumice stone, and the warm Mediterranean sea breeze during a boat trip around the island.
• Taste fresh seafood caught daily, sweet Malvasia wine, and flavorful capers that grow wild on the island.
• Hear the gentle lapping of waves against the fishing boats in Marina Corta, the buzz of scooters navigating narrow streets, and the distant rumble of Stromboli on a nighttime boat tour.
• See the dramatic coastal cliffs made of white pumice stone, the fortified citadel standing guard over the town, panoramic views of the other islands, and the crystal-clear turquoise water in hidden coves.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano: Explore one of Europe's best archaeological museums, housed within the castle, showcasing millennia of history from the islands.
• Castello di Lipari: Wander through the impressive citadel, a fortified city-within-a-city that includes the castle, a cathedral, and the archaeological park.
• Quattrocchi Viewpoint: Head to this famous viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the towering sea stacks and the neighboring island of Vulcano.
• Spiaggia Valle Muria: Relax on this beautiful dark-sand beach, set beneath dramatic cliffs and offering stunning sunset views.
• Boat Trip: Take a boat tour around Lipari to see its famous sea stacks and grottos, or venture further to witness the fiery eruptions of nearby Stromboli at night.

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Sail the Tyrrhenian Sea and explore the volcanic wonders of the Aeolian Islands on our UNESCO World Heritage Treasures of Sicily Tour.

Situated in the Piedmont region, the undulating hills of the Langhe entice oenophiles and gourmands with exceptional vineyards, medieval towns, and farm-to-table cuisine. Vines blanket the rolling landscape, yielding some of Italy’s most acclaimed red wines and earning the region UNESCO World Heritage status. Sample prestigious Barolo and Barbaresco, hunt for elusive white truffles, or simply linger in a café as you watch the world go by. Langhe delivers traditional Italian life with a gourmet twist.

Historical Immersion

• UNESCO Wine Landscape: The vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their long history of winemaking and the harmony between man and nature.
• Home of Kings and King of Wines: This region was part of the domain of the House of Savoy, the dynasty that unified Italy. It is home to Barolo, often called the "king of wines and the wine of kings."
• Truffle Country: The area around Alba is world-famous for the prized white truffle and the annual autumn truffle fair is a major international event. To find out more about these delicacies, take a look at our 8 Truffles to Try on Your Trip to Italy.
• Slow Food Movement: The international Slow Food movement was founded in the nearby town of Bra. Its principles of good, clean, and fair food permeate the region's culinary culture.

What to Expect

• Immerse yourself in one of the world's most prestigious food and wine destinations, set against a backdrop of breathtakingly beautiful, vine-covered hills.
• Feel the cool, damp earth while on a truffle hunt, the satisfying weight of a glass of Barolo, and the crisp autumn air on a drive through the rolling hills.
• Taste the complex notes of cherry, rose, and tar in a Barolo or Barbaresco wine, the intense, earthy aroma of white truffles shaved over pasta, and rich, handmade egg tajarin.
• Hear the pop of a cork in a historic wine cellar, the excited shouts of a truffle hunter when his dog makes a find, and the passionate explanations of a local winemaker.
• See the endless, geometric patterns of vineyards striping the hills, castles and towers crowning medieval villages, and the thick autumn fog that gives the Nebbiolo grape its name.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

• Barolo and Barbaresco Villages: Explore the charming namesake villages of Italy's most famous Nebbiolo-based wines, each with its own castle and numerous tasting rooms (enoteche).
• Wine Tasting: Visit historic family-run wineries for guided tours of the cellars and tastings of world-class Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera, and Dolcetto wines.
• Farm-to-Table Cuisine and Truffle Hunting: Indulge in Michelin-starred meals or rustic trattoria fare like Agnolotti del Plin, a type of pasta that is often filled with rabbit, pork, or veal. In the autumn, join a local truffle hunter and his dog for an authentic truffle hunting experience.
• La Morra: Drive to this hilltop village and climb the bell tower or visit the Belvedere for some of the most stunning panoramic views over the entire Barolo wine region.
• Alba: Visit the region's largest town, famous for its medieval towers, elegant food shops, and the bustling International White Truffle Fair in the fall.

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Indulge your senses with world-class wines and truffle hunting on a Luxury Italy Wine Tour of the Top Regions.

Whether you are looking for Italy’s hidden gems or are interested in experiencing authentic Italian arts and crafts during your trip, these destinations chosen by our Italy travel specialists can introduce you to the true spirit of the country.

You can find inspiration for your trip with our Italy tours and trip packages or enjoy looking for more ideas on what to do, when to visit, and more with our Italy travel guide.