Discover 6 hidden gems in Italy for September and October
September and October are my favorite months to travel and stay in Italy, thanks to the tranquility, the mild climate, and that late summer but early autumn atmosphere that brings a special sense of serenity. Summer gives way to a more intimate and authentic ambiance, the colors change, and the temperatures are still pleasant—perfect for exploring art cities, villages, and natural landscapes.
During this time, many destinations reveal themselves in a quieter, less crowded way, allowing you to live unique experiences.
In this article, I will take you on a journey to discover six magical places, chosen from the sea, mountains, and cities, that best represent this time of year. Are you ready to be inspired?
6 Magical Places to Discover in Italy Between Late Summer and Early Autumn
Procida (Campania)
Marzamemi (Sicily)
Val d’Orcia (Tuscany)
Altopiano di Asiago (Veneto)
Matera (Basilicata)
Lecce (Puglia)
1. Procida (Campania - South Italy)
Procida is a small island in the Gulf of Naples, often overlooked compared to the more famous Capri and Ischia, but it has a unique and authentic charm. Its pastel-colored houses overlook the sea, creating a picturesque and lively landscape. At the end of summer, when tourism decreases, Procida offers a rare tranquility, ideal for those seeking an experience away from the crowds.
Why visit
The island still preserves its ancient traditions, closely linked to the sea and fishing. Among these, the most important event is the Sagra del Mare, held at the end of July. This festival features decorated boats, traditional celebrations, and cultural events that highlight the community’s deep connection with the sea and its fishermen. One of the local stories explains that the colorful houses were historically painted in bright shades so that fishermen could recognize their homes from the open sea.
Procida’s cuisine is another delightful surprise: here you can enjoy dishes made with very fresh fish, such as spaghetti with clams, fried mixed fish, and fish soup. Among the specialties are salted or marinated anchovies, local lemon-based dishes, and the famous “lingua di bue,” a traditional pastry filled with lemon custard, beloved by the island’s inhabitants.
What to do
Procida is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in an authentic and peaceful atmosphere, far from mass tourism, and experience sea-related traditions that are still very much alive. Strolling through the picturesque village of Marina Corricella, taking a boat tour to discover hidden coves, and tasting sweets and typical dishes in one of the local trattorias are experiences that leave an unforgettable memory.
2. Marzamemi (Sicily - South Italy)
Marzamemi is a small fishing village in southeastern Sicily, nestled between crystal-clear sea and traditional architecture. Here, time seems to slow down, especially in late summer and early autumn, when temperatures are still pleasant but the summer crowds thin out, creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
Why visit
This ancient fishing village showcases the true charm of authentic Sicily, with its stone houses, cobblestone streets, and a daily life still shaped by maritime traditions. The historic tuna fishery ("tonnara") is a symbol of Marzamemi’s past and can be visited today, offering a glimpse into the village’s long-standing connection with the sea. Though no longer active as a commercial fishing site, it remains a cultural venue used for events and guided tours.
Marzamemi’s gastronomy reflects its seafaring legacy: the cuisine features very fresh fish, enhanced by Mediterranean flavors such as citrus fruits, capers, and olives. Local specialties include grilled tuna, “sarde a beccafico” (stuffed sardines), and swordfish, which are absolute must-tries. The end of the tuna season in autumn is celebrated through festivals and special recipes, making this period particularly interesting for culinary travelers.
What to do
Stroll along the main square and admire the sunset over the harbor, visit the historic tuna fishery (“tonnara”) to learn about its stories, or stop by one of the trattorias to savor dishes made with very fresh fish like grilled tuna or pasta with sardines. For sea lovers, nearby beaches offer clear and calm waters, perfect for swimming or relaxing.
Curiosities
Marzamemi takes its name from the historic tuna fishery located here—which is one of the oldest in Sicily and today is an important cultural and historical site, though not active in fishing anymore. The name "Marzamemi" itself more likely derives from the Arabic “Marsà al-ḥamām,” meaning “port of the turtledoves,” reflecting the area's past. Every year, between September and October, the “Sea Truffle Festival” (“Festa del Tartufo di Mare”) is celebrated, a gastronomic event dedicated to seafood products that attracts visitors from all over Sicily. Additionally, the village has become famous as a filming location for Italian and international movies, thanks to its timeless atmosphere.
3. Val d’Orcia (Tuscany - Central Italy)
Val d’Orcia is one of the most poetic corners of Tuscany, famous worldwide for its gentle hills dotted with cypress trees, medieval villages, and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. In autumn, the landscapes take on warm shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a natural spectacle that looks like a painting.
Why visit
If you’re looking for tranquility, great food, and genuine traditions, September and October are the ideal months. It’s harvest time for grapes and olives, perfect occasions to experience rural festivals and tastings in the towns (don’t miss the Wine Festivals in Montalcino and Montepulciano, and the New Olive Oil Festivals in Castiglione d’Orcia and San Quirico d’Orcia).
What to do
Stroll through the streets of Pienza, visit historic wineries where the famous Brunello is made, and relax in the open-air thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni. For a different perspective, walk or bike along the Via Francigena, where panoramic views offer unforgettable photo opportunities.
Curiosities and culture
Val d’Orcia has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004 and has inspired artists from Renaissance painters like Piero della Francesca to film directors; scenes from “Gladiator” and “The English Patient” were shot here. Pecorino cheese from Pienza is still produced artisanally following ancient recipes, and you can taste it straight from the local dairies.
4. Altopiano di Asiago (Veneto - Northern Italy)
The Asiago Plateau is a broad mountainous area in the Venetian Prealps, perfect for those in search of peace, nature, and authentic local atmosphere—especially in autumn, when forests are blazing with red, orange, and yellow hues, creating stunning landscapes.
Why visit
The plateau is ideal for anyone who loves wandering through pristine woods and discovering traditional alpine villages far from crowded tourist routes. World War I history is deeply rooted here: you’ll find many museums, memorials, and military cemeteries that bring the dramatic past to life. The plateau’s culinary reputation is excellent, thanks to mountain specialties such as the celebrated Asiago cheese and artisanal cured meats—bold, genuine flavors that reflect the territory.
What to do
Hike or bike the forest trails for full immersion in nature and foliage. Visit World War I museums, restored trenches, and memorials for a deeper understanding of the area’s historic significance. In October, don’t miss local festivals celebrating mushrooms, cheeses, and cured meats—perfect for tasting seasonal dishes and experiencing the plateau’s rich food culture in mountain huts or traditional restaurants.
Curiosities and culture
The Asiago Plateau was a key strategic site during World War I, and the “Strada delle Malghe” route is a wonderful way to combine visits to historical places with stops at dairies and local taverns, merging history and culinary delights. Asiago cheese, protected by the DOP label, can be enjoyed directly at its source in local dairies, along with other mountain products like honey and jams. The small town of Asiago itself hosts autumn markets and tastings focused on mushrooms and cheese, attracting food lovers from across the region.
5. Matera (Basilicata - South Italy)
Matera is a unique city in the world, famous for its “Sassi”—ancient districts carved from limestone that recount a millennia-old human story. In autumn, with gentle light and mild temperatures, Matera’s magic is at its most tangible, offering evocative and authentic atmospheres.
Why visit
Visiting Matera means immersing yourself in one of the world’s oldest continuously-inhabited settlements—tracing back to the Paleolithic, with dwellings that have hosted communities for over 9,000 years. The “caves” of the Sassi, some continuously used since the Stone Age, reveal stories of resilience and ingenuity in adapting to a harsh region. Strolling through Matera’s rock-hewn churches, alleys, and cave homes feels like stepping into a distant past and into a city reborn: once known as Italy’s “national shame” due to poverty, Matera today is a symbol of cultural and artistic renaissance. The pleasant climate in autumn makes exploring the city’s hidden corners especially enjoyable, free from summer crowds.
What to do
Explore the winding streets of the Sassi districts, visit rock churches with centuries-old frescoes, and discover museums dedicated to ancient peasant life. Dine in restaurants set within the caves, sampling Lucanian specialties such as “peperata” and “crapiata”—the latter is a hearty soup made from legumes and grains that embodies the region’s rustic culinary heritage.
Curiosities
Matera was named European Capital of Culture in 2019—a recognition of its remarkable transformation and cultural energy. The Sassi of Matera and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1993, as one of the oldest and most outstanding examples of continuous human settlement. Matera’s evocative landscape has also attracted the film industry: it was not only the location for “The Passion of the Christ” (2004), but also for other international productions such as “No Time to Die” (the James Bond film), “Wonder Woman” and “The Gospel According to St. Matthew”.
6. Lecce (Puglia - South Italy )
Lecce is often called the “Florence of the South” for its outstanding Baroque art and architecture—most notably visible in its ornate churches, palaces, and sun-drenched squares. In late summer and early autumn, the city glows under a warm, golden light, and the pace of life slows, revealing a more authentic, relaxed side perfect for discovery.
Why visit
Visiting Lecce means immersing yourself in centuries of history and vibrant everyday life. The city’s golden “pietra leccese” stone gives its buildings their luminous color and intricate Baroque facades. September and October offer pleasant, mild weather—ideal for leisurely strolls, tasting local cuisine rich in Mediterranean flavors, and enjoying the lively, yet unhurried, city mood. During this time, you can also attend traditional festivals and open-air concerts that celebrate Salento’s culture.
What to do
Wander through the winding alleys of the historic center, marvel at architectural masterpieces like the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Roman Amphitheater, and enjoy specialities such as orecchiette with turnip tops or pasticciotto leccese. Artisan shops and local markets flourish in this period, providing opportunities to discover unique Apulian crafts and flavors. Check local calendars for music and folk events—September is the season for “La Notte della Taranta”, a legendary folk music festival that animates Lecce and the surrounding Salento area.
Curiosities and culture
Lecce has a centuries-old tradition of stone carving: the city’s master masons transformed soft local limestone into breathtakingly elaborate Baroque facades and interiors. The “La Notte della Taranta”, although centered in nearby towns, is one of the largest folk music festivals in Italy—attracting thousands of visitors who flock for concerts, dancing, and authentic Salentine atmosphere. Lecce is also known for cartapesta (papier-mâché) art, with workshops you can visit throughout the old town.
Final tip for travelers
September and October are perfect for exploring Lecce and Salento without the crowds—whether you’re wandering Lecce’s golden lanes, relaxing by the Ionian or Adriatic seas, or sampling new olive oil at a countryside masseria. Each of the locations in your list, from Procida to Matera, offers an authentic Italian experience; Lecce’s unique mix of history, architecture, tradition, and southern warmth makes it a highlight for autumn explorers.
These six places represent just a small part of Italy’s wonders but are perfect for those who want to experience the country in a moment of serenity, with pleasant temperatures and breathtaking colors. Get ready to be amazed and create memories you will carry in your heart forever.
For more information or if you want to plan your trip to any of these destinations, write to us at dolceitalyescape@gmail.com
