I know the feeling of getting overwhelmed by so much information. So, here I am with a few resources to set up your active travel tour of Italy in a hurry. This list is pretty extensive, which is why I decided to divide it into 4 categories.
Here they are:
- Active Travel Destinations
- Luxurious Activities
- Specialty Tours
- Hotel Accommodations
Active Travel Destinations
When it comes to luxury active travel, there’s no denying Italy is one of the best destinations in the world. If you agree with me that luxury (in travel) is about the uniqueness of the experience, listed below are our recommended active travel destinations that will satisfy both seasoned and first-time travelers.
#1 – A History lesson in Sicily
The largest island in the Mediterranean is home to a diverse culture. You’ll notice it once you step inside its massive cathedrals and medieval castles. But the diversity doesn’t stop there. Have a taste of cuisines you won’t find anywhere else: arancine, fried chickpea “panelle” and the traditional Sicilian cannolo. Learn the history of salt trading and discover Corleone –an iconic mafia village. Of course, you’ll get to visit the cultural Mecca of Sicily: Palermo.
#2 - Friuli-Slovenia Adventure Trail
Also known as the “Sweet Northeast," this region is a haven for wine connoisseurs. Sample Friuli’s world-famous white wine along with a tasty meal cooked at a local farmhouse.
Or, go back in time when you visit Cividale Del Friuli – a sleepy town in the Province of Udine known for its medieval origins. Friuli is the gateway to Slovenia where tourists can enjoy a smooth bike ride along the bucolic countryside. There, expert guides can lead you to Radovna Valley, the Vintgar Gorge and Bled.
This is your opportunity to go for a tri-country bike tour (Austria-Italy-Slovenia).
#3 – Slow Food in Piedmont
Piedmont is a paradise where food gourmands experience the best tasting wines in Italy (hey, I am from Piedmont!): Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera and Nebbiolo. Complete your travel tour with truffle hunting and a hands-on cooking lesson from the best local chefs.
For adventure seekers, Piedmont offers scenic views of ancient castles and hamlets. Along the way, hikers and bikers can marvel at endless vineyards where high-quality wine producers are located. Some tours offer an evening meal package in a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Luxurious Activities
Italy is more than just shopping; it’s more than just food.
Listed below are more reasons to book your flight to Italy.
#4 - Golf Courses in Italy
This website features a database of golf courses throughout Italy.
From Trentino-Alto Adige up north to the Sicilian fairways down south, the regions of Italy offer a unique blend of travel experience.
Enjoy long walks, clean air, the fresh scent of grass and a healthy dose of physical exercise to cleanse your mind and soul. Golf isn’t just a “gentleman’s game," it’s an opportunity for everyone to experience Italy’s beauty … away from the bustling crowds of the metropolises.
#5 - Italy Yacht Charter
The Italy Yacht Charter provides services like yacht rentals, skipper school, transportation, fishing programs and tours. You can go island hopping and visit stunning lagoons and dive spots around Italy. Or, you can ask their services for a special party right in the middle of the sea.
#6 - Fly Pulley (Volo Dell’ Angelo / Fly Emotion)
Imagine yourself suspended in the air.
Arms outstretched like an eagle.
And with one strong swoop, you find yourself zipping through the sky. The cold air kissing your face as you descend at 70 mph. It’s breathtaking – the scenery; the countryside … the knowledge that for once in your life you know how it feels like to fly.
If this is something you’re looking for, then look no further than Basilicata’s Volo dell’ Angelo/Flight of the Angel and Fly Emotion.
Both offer zipline trips designed to add a spice to your Italian escapade. Flight of the Angel is located in Castelmezzano, southern Italy. It is considered to be one of the world’s highest, longest and fastest ziplines. And trust me, Basilicata is very underrated. There is much more to it than Matera and its stones.
Near Lake Como, Fly Emotion flies you to two trails: Albaredo per San Marco and Bema. They offer a dual flight – where you can fly with another person so you can share the experience.
#7 – Paragliding
From zipping let’s go to gliding.
With Italy’s towering landscapes, one cannot miss the experience of paragliding. You’ll get to see Italy from different views. From Monte Baldo, there’s the stunning view of Lake Garda. Monte Pollino is the launch site for a trip above the Calabrian coast. From Piana degli Alabanesi, you’ll fly over the Serre Della Pizzuta nature reserve. If paragliding is something you’d like to try, then you can visit Flytaly, Brevart and Tandemfly.
#8 – Horseback Riding
Italy is blessed with natural parks and historic landmarks perfect for a day or two of horseback excursions. Equestrian tours like Equitours lets you explore the Tuscan countryside, home of the butteri cowboys. Equestrian Italy takes you to Lazio and its capital, Rome. You’ll ride back in time as you visit the ancient city of Sutri and the Etruscan necropolis of Tarquinia and Cerveteri.
Specialty Tours
# 9 – Thermal Spas
What better way to revitalize your body than to soak in natural, Italian hot springs? The country is home to the world’s largest number of spa centers. Wherever you go, you are guaranteed to experience the kind of pampering that’s been going on since the ancient times.
Whether you’re looking to treat an ailment or just want to relax after a day of touring, Italy’s rich, thermal waters will certainly relax your body. Life in Italy has a list of towns with thermal spas.
#10 – Birdwatching
Sardinia is home to diverse species not found anywhere else. This Mediterranean island features 330 bird species – making it an EU Site of Community Importance.
In an article for Fatbirder.com, contributor Jason Anderson listed his top bird sites. One of which is the Griffon Colony at Bosa.
# 11 – Agritourismo
Have you ever heard of “farm holiday?"
A farm holiday is a unique travel itinerary where tourists stay at local farms and experience the Italian countryside. Walks of Italy described Agritourism as “the best way to experience Italy’s countryside.” Up until recently, “high-end” isn’t something you can associate with Agritourism. Read more about Agriturismi in Italy in our blog post.
But things have changed and now we see a few luxury farmstays sprouting around Italy. And Travel and Leisure has a list of best affordable spots for agritourism; some of which have a king-sized bed and a 50-foot long swimming pool. You can visit Agriturist.it for their list of selected farm holidays around Italy.
# 12 – Culinary Tours
Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures offers small-group, food-focused tours in different destinations around Italy. Francesca, the owner and a native Italian, also offers in-person and virtual cooking classes.
Don't forget to check out Tourissimo's lineup of Chef Bike Tours for active foodie vacations in Italy.
# 13 – Holy Pilgrimage
Italy is home to the one of the world’s largest religions. And for centuries, Christians from all over the world would flock to Rome and visit the Holy Father. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the Shroud of Turin – a centuries-old relic which bears the image of the crucified Christ.
If you who wish to take a pilgrimage to the Holy See and other places of worship, visit Opera Romana.
Hotel Accommodations
# 14 – InItalia.it
It has one of the largest databases of hotels and has been serving tourists for more than 20 years. The site features customer assistance, reviews, online reservation and a comprehensive information for each hotel on its list. They also offer special rates reserved for InItalia Club members. It is a good (local) tool in addition to the large travel and booking sites.
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