Living in Italy and sharing its wonders through Tourissimo's cycling and hiking tours is a privilege I hold dear. I am also acutely aware of the personal responsibility that comes with contributing to the overtourism affecting certain parts of this beautiful country.
As one of the founders of Tourissimo, I am constantly reminded of one of our founding principles: to bring beneficial tourism to Italy. It's a principle we’ve upheld since the very beginning, guiding every decision we make.
Rethinking Italian Travel
How can we inspire travelers to go beyond their preconceived notions of Italy? How do we encourage you to trust us, to venture beyond the well-trodden paths, and to explore the lesser-known corners of this magnificent country?
Italy is a land of historic villages that safeguard the country’s cultural heart. Despite challenges like depopulation, these small towns preserve traditions, dialects, festivals, and cuisine that define Italian identity. The association I Borghi più belli d’Italia highlights the most beautiful of these places—authentic communities with deep local roots and timeless charm. Visiting them offers a richer, more meaningful connection to Italy beyond the tourist crowds.
Yet, 70% of tourists visit only 1% of Italy. While iconic destinations like Venice and the Cinque Terre are inundated with visitors, many equally enchanting places remain overlooked. These undiscovered locations eagerly await visitors who are willing to travel responsibly and in moderation. A bike tour or a walking tour offer the perfect ways to experience these special locations.
Travel Off The Beaten Path
Having visited all 20 regions of Italy, I can confidently say that every area offers unique charm, art, history, culture, and, of course, incredible cuisine. The key to truly experiencing Italy lies in abandoning the stereotypical bucket list. Whether you have a week or a month, resist the temptation to cram too much into your itinerary. Instead, select a few destinations and immerse yourself fully in their essence.
Find Balance
On our cycling tour or hiking tour, we like to take you off the beaten path and dive deep into a specific area. Pairing one of our tours with a visit to one iconic location, instead of bouncing from one city to another each day, strikes the perfect balance. You’ll have the opportunity to see some of the celebrated landmarks while also experiencing the unexpected joys of Italy’s lesser-known treasures.
Let go of the notion that you must see everything. Such ambitions are not only unrealistic but can detract from the experience itself. Even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by weather or a strike, so embrace the unexpected and enjoy the journey.
Live Like a Local
To connect with Italy, adopt the mindset of a local. Opt for accommodations like agriturismi, alberghi diffusi, or private villas. Embrace regional cuisines by dining where the locals eat, savoring dishes crafted with love and tradition, using ingredients that are in season. Support local artisans and family-run businesses, ensuring your contributions have a direct impact on the community.
Trust a Local
Tourissimo is one of the few cycling tour companies that specializes exclusively in Italy. Our deep knowledge and genuine connection to this country enable us to curate unforgettable and authentic experiences for our guests. By trusting local experts, you open the door to an Italy that transcends the tourist checklist.
The Future of Italian Tourism
Tourism, when approached thoughtfully, holds the potential to be a profound force for good. By exploring lesser-known destinations and supporting local communities, travelers can help alleviate the pressures of overtourism while celebrating everything that makes Italy extraordinary.
What You Can Do As A Traveler
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Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Visit Italy during the quieter months, like April, May, September, or October. July and August tend to be the busiest, as many Italians go on vacation during that time. Plus, the high temperatures can make the experience less enjoyable. -
Engage in Slow Travel
When you're in a new place, it's tempting to see as much as possible in the shortest amount of time. But why not focus on just one area instead? There's nothing quite like the feeling of moving from one town to the next under your own power—on foot or by bike. -
Be Mindful of Environmental Impact
Whenever you can, use public transportation like buses or subways, or consider sharing a taxi with others. It might seem obvious, but don’t leave trash behind—if you can’t find a bin, carry it with you until you do. And instead of staying in a big resort, why not choose a small farmhouse surrounded by nature? -
Respect Local Customs and Etiquette
'Buongiorno', 'Buon appetito'... You probably already know a few Italian phrases—it’s time to use them and blend in with the locals a bit. Keep an open mind to appreciate the nuances of Italian culture, and respect local traditions. For instance, dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. -
Avoid High-Impact Activities
Some tours are designed with only one goal: attracting as many tourists as possible, often at the expense of the experience itself (let’s be honest, no one really enjoys a group tour with 50 people). In cities like Rome or Florence, you might even come across horse-drawn carriage rides—try to avoid these and instead look for smaller, more mindful experiences that prioritize sustainability
Ready to explore Italy differently?
Join us in supporting a more thoughtful, responsible way to travel.
Tackling overtourism requires all of us—travelers, tour operators, and locals alike—to make intentional, thoughtful choices. By embracing responsible travel practices, we can preserve the essence of Italy for generations to come while ensuring that the magic of this country remains accessible to all who visit.
Let’s redefine tourism together.
