Autumn to discover: forests, villages, and views for slow weekends A tour of Italy in search of relaxation and fun
The leaves crunching underfoot, the crisp air scented with damp earth and burning wood, the villages and forests painted in warm, unexpected colors. Autumn is the perfect season to slow down, walk without hurry, and enjoy a relaxed weekend far from the chaos of the city. No need for big plans, just choose the right place and let yourself be carried away (ideally with Taylor Swift’s All Too Well as your soundtrack).
Hidden Villages, Forests, and Hills from North to South
The Beech Forest of Monte Cimino, in the Tuscia region (Viterbo Province)
@piaceridiroma Sai che nel Lazio esiste una faggeta dichiarata Patrimonio Naturale dell’Umanità UNESCO? Faggeta del Monte Cimino (VT) È il luogo perfetto per una passeggiata nella natura o un picnic nel weekend #faggeta #montecimino #lazio #viterbo #gitafuoriporta Chill Vibes - Tollan Kim
For those living in Lazio or Umbria, this area is particularly convenient and ideal for an autumn getaway. The trails lead through centuries-old trees forming a golden canopy, where you can listen to the rustling leaves and breathe in the clean air, fully immersed in the colors of the season. Each path has its own rhythm: some lead to clearings perfect for reading or sketching, others wind through small rural villages ideal for a warm meal stop.
Subiaco
A place where nature meets spirituality: Benedictine monasteries carved into the rock, the Aniene waterfalls, and trails surrounded by autumn colors offer walks that nourish both body and mind. It’s worth ending the visit with a stop at a small local restaurant for a traditional dish, making the day feel complete and deeply restorative.
Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna
@torvic2015_ Brisighella è un borgo antico, che si adagia ai piedi di tre inconfondibili pinnacoli rocciosi su cui poggiano una Rocca del XV secolo, la Torre cosiddetta dell’Orologio ed il Santuario del Monticino. Arte, storia e architettura a Brisighella si fondono in maniera emozionante. Il borgo è composto da un dedalo di antiche viuzze, tratti di cinta muraria e scale scolpite nel gesso. . . #brisighella #italy #emiliaromagna #borghipiubelliditalia #borghitalia suono originale - Victor
Moving north, Brisighella reveals its most intimate side in autumn: medieval alleys, panoramic views, and warm hues embracing every walk. Climbing up to the Clock Tower offers a panorama where golden and green hills alternate, and the village glows in a soft, natural light perfect for unfiltered photographs.
The Langhe, between Alba and Barolo
Here, the experience expands: vineyard rows turn gold and crimson, surrounding forests shine with warm tones, and the scents of must and truffle fill the air. Stop by local wineries to taste freshly harvested wines, meet small producers, and breathe in the authenticity of the place, letting the peaceful landscapes work their quiet magic.
Asolo, Veneto
@bychloecaldwell Welcome to Asolo [Save this for your next trip to Italy] Asolo is a dreamy medieval hilltop town located just over an hour outside of Venice. With its cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and rich history, it’s the perfect escape from the crowded tourist routes. Here’s why Asolo is a must-visit: Explore the 12th-century Rocca fortress for panoramic views Sip local Prosecco at charming wineries, like @progresscountrywinehouse Visit the Teatro Duse, a historic theater named after actress Eleonora Duse Stroll through boutiques and artisan shops in Piazza Garibaldi Wander quiet medieval streets lined with frescoed houses Take in the romantic gardens of Villa Freya and Villa Scotti Asolo is where history, culture, and slow Italian living come together. Save this for your next trip to Italy and follow @bychloecaldwell for more travel tips #asolo #veneto #visititaly #italytrip Unwritten (Instrumental) - Alhanii
This romantic hilltop town enchants in autumn. Its cobbled streets and squares come alive with markets selling handcrafted goods and dried flowers, while the surrounding hills paint each walk in soft, warm shades.
Varenna, Lake Como
@paterlena one day trip to this magical place if you are in Milan it’s a MUST #lakecomo #beautifulplaces #italy #mountains #fyp Take My Hand - Matt Berry
Offers a different experience: strolling along the gray-blue waters of the lake, watching the surrounding mountains blaze with copper and gold, and perhaps taking the ferry to Bellagio at sunset, coffee in hand, an autumn ritual to remember. Time seems to slow naturally here: sitting on a bench to watch the waves, the reflections of color on the buildings, and the lake’s silence is an experience worth the trip alone.
Mount Amiata, Tuscany
@naturetravellab Monte Amiata is a fantastic nature parc with a peak of 1.800 m highth in the South of Tuscany. Surrounded by 8 beautiful, authentic villages, ideal for a road trip, hiking or cycling tour. From mystic Arcidosso to Roccalbegna and Seggiano. Rich history and nature, great wines and food. Lovely small and sustainable places to sleep. #hiddengems #naturevibes #natuurliefhebber #nature #naturelove #naturetravellab #monteamiata #tuscany So Fine - Crayon
Further south, Mount Amiata, between Siena and Grosseto, offers beech and chestnut woods and spa villages perfect for slow walks and restorative breaks. Santa Fiora and Abbadia San Salvatore are charming villages to explore at a leisurely pace, wandering through stone alleys and small artisan shops.
The Partenio Valley and Picentini Mountains, Campania
@stiffler0011 Cascate di calabritto (Av) , percorso di trekking stupendo sui Monti Picentini , con un totale di ben 14 salti ! E tu cosa fai nel tempo libero? #campania #trekking #mountain #nature #meraviglia #fyp #viral #specialeffects #CapCut #lifestyle #freetime #relax Glimpse (Slowed + Reverb) - Gabriel Albuquerqüe
In Campania, autumn unfolds among mountains, forests, and hidden villages far from mass tourism. The Partenio Valley and the Picentini Mountains offer landscapes of beech, chestnut, and oak trees, with well-marked trails suitable for all walking levels. Small villages like Summonte and Sant’Angelo a Scala come alive in autumn with local markets, ancient workshops, and restaurants serving dishes based on mushrooms, chestnuts, and regional products. The Picentini Mountains also feature nature reserves and small lakes that reflect the warm seasonal colors, making every hike a fully immersive autumn experience, ideal for those seeking a slow, rejuvenating weekend close to nature.
Cefalù and the Madonie Park, Sicily
@wild_0utdoors The Madonie National Park; a true gem for hikers and outdoor lovers. If you want to visit lesser known hiking destinations with remote trails and where traditional culture is still embedded in society, this is the place to go. It just goes to show, you don’t need to always head to the most popular tourist destinations to enjoy a wonderful hiking holiday. #hiking #sicily #Italy #madonie #traveltiktok #hikingadventures original sound - IZZY - Hiking|Outdoors|Travel
A perfect blend of sea and mountains: the seaside town still carries the bright colors of summer, while the Madonie forests glow with deep, warm shades, ideal for walking, foraging for mushrooms, or simply breathing in pure mountain air.
The Itria Valley and Alberobello, Puglia
@secretescapes_ Do you know Alberobello, the charming Italian town? With its unique Trulli houses, Alberobello is like a backdrop from times long past. The whitewashed walls and the striking stone roofs tell stories of tradition and craftsmanship. Let yourself be enchanted by the atmosphere, stroll through the picturesque alleys and discover charming cafés where the scent of fresh espresso is in the air. Whether a stroll through the winding streets or a look at the glowing facades at sunset - every moment here is unforgettable. Would you like a trip to Alberobello? #Italy #ItalyTrip #italytravel #Puglia #Hiddengems #traveltiktok #europe #creatorsearchinsights original sound - Secret Escapes
Showcase autumn at its brightest: clear skies, quiet roads, and local markets filled with new olive oil, almonds, and honey perfuming the air.
Local festivals: the last-minute idea for the laid-back traveler
For those who prefer an even easier, last-minute option closer to the city, autumn festivals (sagre) are perfect. Almost every village, large or small, holds celebrations dedicated to chestnuts, mushrooms, new wine, olive oil, and other local products. These traditional, lively events are full of atmosphere, strolling among stalls, tasting local specialties, and soaking up the season without needing to plan long trips or complicated itineraries.
