October Traveling to Italy

It’s no secret that any time is a great time to travel to Italy (really, anywhere in Europe)! But October happens to be our favorite month to travel to Italy.

Here are our top three reasons why:

1. Less Crowded: Major cities like Florence, Venice and Rome still have some bustle, but you’ll be glad for the quiet compared to the summer crowds. With school back in session and summer vacations at a close, you can take in historical and religious sites such as the Vatican Museums and the Roman Forum with ease.
2. Weather: The weather in Italy in October is mild and comfortable, making a pleasant time to visit. Of course the weather can vary across different regions of the country due to diverse geography and climate patterns, however, typically the temperatures in October range from 59°F to 72°F. As the summer crowds begin to thin, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning Amalfi Coast at your own pace. The region still has mild temperatures and warm seas in October. This means you can still swim and relish in the many water activities.
3. Harvest Season: With the harvest season at hand, you can expect good food…and lots of it, when you visit Italy in October. From pistachios in Sicily to truffles in Umbria and Piedmont to chocolate in Perugia, your tastebuds will be in heaven with tastings galore. There are also many olive groves scattered about the region of Tuscany, where you can see the olive harvest and learn about the production of renowned Tuscan olive oil.

Mark your calendar for these events in October:

• October 11–13 & 18–20 — Pistachio Festival (Sagra del Pistacchio): Held in Bronte, near Mount Etna on the island of Sicily, this event showcases everything to do with this delicious nut.
• October 12–December 8 — International White Truffle Fair: Alba is the host of this excursion and features live cooking demonstrations, historical reenactments, and, of course, truffles for sale.
• October 16-25 — Eurochocolate: Perugia comes alive during this ode to chocolate with tastings, classes, and chocolate artwork on display.
• Last two weekends in October — Festa del Marrone: The home of Michelangelo, Caprese Michelangelo is in the spotlight during this honoring of the humble chestnut.
• Every Sunday in October — Marradi Chestnut Festival:  this popular chestnut festival is held in the Mugello area just outside Florence. Expect countless stalls loaded with jams, cakes, and other treats to try.