Every year it’s the same story: where to go for Easter in Italy? Don’t worry because I’m about to reveal the 33 most popular destinations for Easter and Easter Monday.
Have you arrived at the last possible second without knowing what you are going to do at Easter and Easter Monday? And now you’re starting to feel uneasy when people ask you what you’re going to do over the holidays and you still don’t know…?
Don’t worry, it’s normal, we’ve all been there. That’s why I decided to write this article just for you who don’t know what to do at Easter in Italy. Below you will find lots of travel ideas for a simple day trip or a weekend you will never forget.
The usual family lunch can be taken to the next level, finding yourself in places full of life and culture that offer so much in terms of food and wine, but also nature and art.
So I suggest you read on! You will find many ideas for an Easter trip, useful for unplugging and finally enjoying the spring temperatures.
Here’s where to go at Easter in Italy to relax!
As I told you, there is something for everyone. Whether you love events, art, nature, spas or good food, you’ll be satisfied by the destinations I’m about to propose. They are organised according to their geographical location, from North to South.
So all you have to do is sit back and pay attention: here are the best places to visit at Easter in Italy!
The 33 wonderful destinations for Easter
Northern Italy
1. Verona
Known as the City of Love and starring Romeo and Juliet, Verona is the ideal place to spend time having fun and relaxing.
On Easter days there is the Palio del Recioto in Negrar, an event with live music where you can wander from kiosk to kiosk and taste the excellent local wines such as Amarone and Recioto della Valpolicella.
However, you can’t forget to taste the Pearà, a typical sauce made of bread, broth and pepper used to accompany meat.
Outside Verona you will find the Sigurtà Park, a unique beauty that was named the most beautiful park in Italy in 2013. What are you waiting for during your Easter holidays?
2. Venice
Here’s where to go on holiday at Easter in Italy, especially with your love partner. Venice, also called “La Serenissima”, is a place of unique charm and is an object of desire for people from the farthest corners of the earth.
Coming here at Easter is a great way to savour its spring-like climate and get lost in the beautiful alleyways. Arriving at St. Mark’s Square, one of the most incredible squares in the world, will be a pleasant stroll across bridges and small canals.
You’re bound to get hungry, so I suggest you try the Fugassa, a typical Easter cake very similar to the colomba.
3. Genoa
Genoa is a great destination if you’re not sure where to go for Easter in Italy. Among the cultural and leisure activities on offer in this city of incredible history, there are the Civic Museums, open during the festive season, and the world-famous Aquarium, which makes Genoa famous abroad.
At the time of its construction, in fact, the Genoa Aquarium was the second largest in the world…fascinating! So, among thousands of marine species to admire with your own eyes, you can also stop to eat lamb with potatoes and trofie with pesto genovese, the staples of Genoese Easter.
4. Riviera di Levante – Italian Riviera
This is one of the places I recommend most… The Riviera di Levante is the ideal place to spend Easter and enjoy the best oysters you have ever eaten in your life! An aphrodisiac place that has inspired so many of the poets mentioned in history books today.
It is hard not to fall in love with its beaches and enchanting villages. From Cinque Terre to Lerici and finally Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can immerse yourself in the authenticity that makes Italy such a wonderful country.
5. Riviera di Ponente – Italian Riviera
On the Riviera di Ponente you can fulfil all your most intimate desires. Between unspoilt nature and a lot of charm, you can admire many villages, each one more beautiful than the next, and appreciate the local markets.
Apricale, always illuminated by the sun and surrounded by olive trees, Albenga, which has become famous for its purple asparagus and finally Dolceacqua, are just some of the spectacular destinations this place has to offer!
6. Langhe
If you need to immerse yourself in nature, observe beautiful views and relax in the silence of the countryside, the Langhe is the place for you.
In the inns and farmhouses completely surrounded by vineyards of Barolo D.O.C.G., which gives glory to this land, you can share Italian Easter traditions and eat local delicacies in an environment that conveys an existential peace.
Then, of course, I suggest you take a walk in the beautiful hills, otherwise how will you digest?
7. Turin
If you don’t know where to go at Easter in Italy, let me suggest Turin, the ideal place to spend a carefree day. It was here that the Easter egg was invented, an undisputed symbol enjoyed by children and adults alike.
At lunchtime, you can enjoy delicacies such as spinach pie and Asti Spumante, two Piedmontese excellence.
As if that wasn’t enough, if you’ve never seen the Pyramids in Cairo, you can visit the Egyptian Museum, the second most important in the world for the quantity of historical finds.
8. Milan
At Easter you can’t miss a trip to Milan, the city of fashion! Here you can spend an Easter dedicated to shopping.
In particular, I recommend a visit to the Brera district during the Angel Fair, where you can admire all kinds of stalls. It is at some of these stalls that you can treat yourself to Colomba, the typical Lombard cake.
But the province of Milan can also be very inviting for a quiet Easter Monday. Here you can get to know the paddy fields around Pavia and Mortara, two places famous for their fine Carnaroli rice and goose sushi, a delicacy I never knew existed!
9. Aosta and Castles
Immerse yourself in the wildest nature, admire breathtaking landscapes and breathe fresh air. Here in the Aosta Valley, you can admire the most beautiful castles of the entire peninsula, built during Feudalism at the request of the most powerful lords.
The Fénis Castle, the Fort Bard and the Royal Castle of Sarre are just some of the fascinating places to see. It must be said that they are just a stone’s throw from Mont Blanc…The view is assured here in the Aosta Valley!
10. Euganean Hills, Veneto
The Natural Park of the Euganean Hills is a land rich in amazing villages and local specialities. It is the ideal place for you if you are a nature lover. And in fact, between excursions by bike, on foot and on horseback you can enjoy a magical atmosphere!
Still wondering where to go for Easter in Italy? I’ll tell you more! You can take refuge in the thermal baths of Abano Montegrotto, where relaxation is assured with spas and mud treatments. The icing on the cake for a dream Easter!
11. Trento
Wondering where to go on holiday at Easter? Trento is the right place to be in contact with the most authentic nature. Between picnics in the green, trekking in the mountains and excursions to the lakes of Molveno and Caldonazzo, you have a wide choice of what to do in Trentino Alto Adige!
If you like to experience strong flavours, you can’t miss a trip to the Cembra Valley, where Grappa Trentina is the highlight.
If you are more interested in relaxation and wellness, you can spend a day at the Terme di Pejo, where you will be treated like a king.
12. Trieste
How can you not fall in love with this fascinating city? If you have never been there, Easter is the right occasion to enjoy the view of Piazza Unità d’Italia, the biggest square in Europe among those facing the sea… I assure you that it is incredibly beautiful!
I only recommend you to cover yourself well because of the Bora, the wind that could bring back winter even in a spring period like this one. It is not by chance that here in Trieste the broth of tagliolini is typical, to keep warm in the coldest days.
13. Modena
Modena is the ideal place to visit during the festive season. In fact, cultural venues such as the Museo della Figurina (Collectible Card Museum) and the Civic Museums remain open during this period. Modena, along with nearby Bologna, is one of the main pillars of Italian food and wine.
In Modena, you can eat Tigelle, fried gnocchi and tortellini, filled with prosciutto as opposed to Bologna’s made with mortadella. Here’s what to eat and see at Easter!
Central Italy
14. Recanati, Le Marche
You will certainly be familiar with this small town. It is the place where Giacomo Leopardi grew up and where he was inspired to create some of the most fascinating poems ever written.
It is an excellent place to spend a peaceful Easter holiday in the company of good food, strolling through its mysterious alleyways. Recanati is another great travel tip on where to go at Easter in Italy, if you want to spend a quiet holiday with your family.
15. Spello, Umbria
Named one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Spello must be on your list of most fascinating places to visit. The history of this small village will take you on an incredible journey through its ancient traditions and attractions.
And since Spello is located at the foot of Mount Subasio, you will also have the chance to pick the most diverse varieties of colourful flowers, delighted by the delicious smells of this place.
Unfortunately, at Easter you will not be able to attend the Flower Festival (Infiorata), a historical event when the town is filled with life and you can contemplate its beautiful alleys filled with expanses of flower petals. But the town will still be a riot of flowering balconies, in full springtime splendour!
16. Florence
Where better to go on holiday at Easter than Florence? You’ll fall in love from the first moment you step into its alleys and squares. After all, we’re talking about the home of art and architecture!
At Easter you can’t miss the Chariot Ceremony, which thrills everyone with its fireworks in Piazza del Duomo. Needless to say, you can relax with an excellent chicken soup and sip a glass of Chianti Classico D.O.C.G. wine.
17. Viterbo
Now let me tell you about Viterbo, the ideal place to spend Easter. The Holy Week is full of events relating to the re-enactment of the Passion of Christ, an occasion when you can stroll through the narrow streets of the town and be immediately immersed in an authentic atmosphere.
In Viterbo you can relax at its thermal baths and enjoy the Easter menu at one of the trattorias, sampling the famous Pizza di Pasqua della Tuscia.
18. Rome and surroundings
How can you not mention Rome, the capital of the world, on this list? Here you can do just about anything, a wide variety of activities and lots of sightseeing!
However, if you want to get away from the hectic chaos of the metropolis, you can stretch out to Frascati, a town famous for its wines and friendly restaurateurs, or to Bracciano, where you can relax by the lake and meditate in pure tranquillity. These are great ideas on where to go at Easter in Italy, guaranteed!
19. Montefalco, Umbria
Among the Easter destinations worth mentioning, Montefalco definitely deserves a place.
Home of the Sagrantino di Montefalco D.O.C.G. and other exceptional red wines, this picturesque village is the perfect opportunity to relax with friends. You can also enjoy unique experiences such as winery tours, which are essential to learn about the local winemaking techniques.
20. Saturnia Thermal Baths, Tuscany
The Terme di Saturnia is a great place to relax in its free and paid baths, which I can assure you are some of the most enchanting in the whole country!
As if that wasn’t enough, you also have the opportunity to spend Easter in the countryside at organic farms, even bringing your children with you and letting them have fun in the unspoilt nature.
21. Montepulciano, Tuscany
Montepulciano is the ideal place to spend Easter in Italy. This land, linked to an ancient wine culture, is the home of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano D.O.C.G., an all-Italian excellence.
At Easter you can’t miss the Montepulciano Festival, where you can enjoy spectacular classical music concerts. But I also recommend you experience and immerse yourself in its vineyards, among the most important in Tuscany.
22. Conero Riviera, Le Marche
The beauty of the Italian peninsula can be traced back to places like this. The Conero Riviera is your chance to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and magnificent views directly from the woody promontories overlooking the crystal-clear sea of Le Marche.
Even the less nature-loving will be overwhelmed by the charm of this land and its enchanting beaches.
23. Upper Molise
This region is a jewel and a must-see! In a land characterised by unspoilt nature, grandiose castles and many unique handicrafts, you will be able to visit some magnificent villages I will now list.
Venafro, even known as “the city of 33 churches” because of the number of churches, Vastogirardi, known for its Monte di Mezzo park and its biodiversity and, last but not least, Carpinone.
South Italy
24. Naples and Procida
Here’s where to go at Easter in Italy for an unforgettable holiday! A tour of Naples is a must. Its history is fascinating and it is a city admired all over the world, one of the many reasons being that it is the home of the real pizza, replicated all over the world.
For Easter Monday, on the other hand, I suggest you take a ferry to the island of Procida, nominated this year as the Italian Capital of Culture 2022. Bring a nice packed lunch with Campania’s delicacies: casatiello and the ever-present pastiera. What more could you ask for in life?
25. Matera
Considered one of the oldest cities in the world, Matera should be added to the list of must-see Easter destinations!
Also known as “the city of the Sassi”, Matera is world famous as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture 2019… This is enough to make you understand the grandeur of this town! What characterises it are the dwellings, real houses carved into the rock.
I advise you to spend the holidays here. Also because Easter is a very important event for the locals, who will not be satisfied unless they taste their Pannarella, a local cake with a hard-boiled egg inside... It’s really exceptional!
26. Vulture Park in Basilicata
Are you planning to spend your holidays away from the chaos of big cities?
Then you can’t miss the Vulture Park! Here you can make countless excursions and admire a vast environmental heritage, enriched by the presence of incredible medieval villages.
In this area, you can get in touch with the deep local wine culture, tasting the famous Aglianico del Vulture D.O.C.G..
27. Agrigento
I’ll tell you where to go at Easter in Italy: Agrigento is for you! You can’t miss the Festa degli Archi, a magnificent open-air exhibition in San Biagio Platani, a village a few kilometres away.
When the weather is good, you must visit the Valley of the Temples, a unique archaeological site that you will surely fall in love with.
28. Catania
Why not spend Easter in Catania? Dominated by Mount Etna, Italy’s most famous active volcano, this city of art is definitely worth seeing at least once in your life!
For Easter lunch, you won’t want to miss the “Agneddu” or the traditional almond and pistachio biscuits, which are very popular throughout Sicily.
29. Modica
If you’re wondering where to go on holiday at Easter, Modica is the place for you. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, you’ll be thrilled to stroll through its alleyways. This amazing town is famous for being the setting for the popular “Commissario Montalbano” TV series.
If you come on Easter Sunday, you’ll realise how crowded the old town centre and Corso Umberto will be, as a result of the Madonna Vasa festival.
However, if you want to go home satisfied, you must try the local artisan Modica Chocolate, which is really good.
30. Bari and Polignano a Mare
Puglia… What a wonderful region! In Bari, you can sample delicious raw seafood including sea urchins, one of the best things you can eat. I recommend a trip to Bari Vecchia. You’ll meet some nice ladies who make orecchiette, a type of fresh pasta, which they sell on the street.
Nearby, you absolutely must make a trip to Polignano a Mare. Don’t miss the Lama Monachile cove, a panorama that inspired Domenico Modugno with his famous phrase “nel blu dipinto di blu” (in blue painted blue). I don’t know what else to recommend for Easter in Italy, but here!
31. Lecce
Lecce, also known as the “Lady of Baroque”, is a unique opportunity to sample the many local recipes and experience the deeply felt traditions of its citizens.
At Easter, in fact, thousands of colours and decorations spill out onto the balconies and alleyways, so that there is a wonderful atmosphere in the city. Here you should definitely attend the Rite of Sepulchres, an ancient tradition that takes place in all the churches of the city.
I’m sure you’ll be weighed down by all the food you’ve eaten during the festivities. That’s why I suggest you and your family spend the day after Easter outdoors, just as the locals traditionally do.
32. Pollino Park
Want to spend a few days of pure relaxation? The Pollino Park is the perfect place if you’re wondering where to spend Easter and Easter Monday! Situated between Basilicata and Calabria, the park takes its name from the mountain range on which it extends.
A large part of the mountain peaks are snow-capped, making it the ideal place if you’re looking for some high-altitude trekking! Between green walks and cycling activities, you can stop in one of the 56 municipalities that make up the park for an unforgettable lunch.
33. Tropea and Capo Vaticano
If you love sea and relaxation, I absolutely recommend these two little places along the Coast of the Gods in Calabria. These are the right places to admire one of the most beautiful seas in Italy and to go on interesting boat trips, enjoying special sunsets that you will never forget!
Too bad… this was the last of the incredible destinations I told you about today. I really hope that now you know where to go for Easter in Italy and spend an unforgettable time with your loved ones and your love partner… Happy holidays with Italia Delight’s proposals! 😉📸
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