November is a wonderful month to escape to Italy. Many parts of the country still enjoy mild weather, and in the major cultural cities, you can explore historic sites without the summer crowds. It’s also perfect for hikers wanting to enjoy the magical autumn colours. And why not let yourself be charmed by Italy’s small villages? November is the season of food festivals, with local specialities on display almost everywhere. Here’s where to go for a November getaway in Italy.
Hiking in Italy: national parks and scenic hills
November is ideal for exploring Italy’s most popular trekking routes. Cooler weather and colourful autumn landscapes make for stunning scenery, often paired with meals featuring local delicacies.
Options are plentiful: from the enchanting mountains of Calabria to the postcard-perfect scenery of Valle d’Aosta, and the world-famous wine trails.
Sila National Park
Located in the heart of Calabria, Sila National Park is perfect for a nature-filled holiday. The park is vast and divided into Sila Piccola, Sila Grande, and Sila Greca, so you can pick the route that suits you best.
Start at Lake Ampollino, the region’s largest artificial lake, or explore the Giants of Sila Forest, a protected ancient woodland that’s easy to reach. Along the trails, waterfalls, and forests, you’ll also discover quaint villages offering great food and places to stay.
Sila National Park sits between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, so if November brings a sunny day, you’re only a short drive from the coast.
Valle Maira
Valle Maira, in southern Piedmont between Cuneo and the French border, is ideal for authentic mountain treks. Here you’ll find small alpine villages and high peaks just starting to be dusted with snow. The autumn colours are spectacular — from orange forests to green meadows and the first patches of white snow.
Top hikes include the 11 km Sentiero Balcone and various scenic loop trails, such as the Anello di Acceglio or Lou Viol. Combine great food with incredible scenery, and you have the perfect November weekend.
Chianti
November is the perfect time to visit Chianti’s wineries. The grape harvest is over, and the cellars are full of new wines to taste. Winding country roads are framed by the vivid colours of autumn foliage.
The region, stretching between Siena and Florence, also offers castles, churches, and medieval villages like Radda in Chianti, Montefioralle, and Castellina in Chianti.
Chianti is easy to reach by car or public transport. Even if it rains, many hotels have indoor pools and spas, while Tuscany’s famous art cities are only a short drive away.
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Deciding which city to visit in Italy can be tough — the country is packed with incredible art and history. November is a great month for cultural trips: fewer tourists and mild weather make walking around much more enjoyable. From Basilicata to Veneto, there’s plenty to explore.
Matera
Matera is a unique autumn destination. Famous for its Sassi — ancient dwellings carved into rock — the city is easier to navigate in cooler weather, and the surrounding countryside glows with autumn colours.
Wandering through the Sassi feels like stepping back in time, with narrow streets, cave churches, and charming squares. Be sure to try the local cuisine, including traditional bread, dried peppers, and cheeses. Matera is affordable, with plenty of activities and accommodation, making it a top November getaway.
Verona
Verona is enchanting all year round, but November adds a special charm. Autumn colours reflect in the Adige River, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Spend a weekend exploring historic and cultural sites like the Roman Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, and Juliet’s Balcony. Verona also has excellent food and wine, and its location makes it a perfect base to visit Lake Garda and the Valpolicella wine region.
Siena
Siena offers the best of both worlds: a beautifully preserved medieval city and easy access to the Tuscan countryside. Visiting in November means mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
Don’t miss Piazza del Campo, home of the famous Palio, or the Siena Cathedral. Nearby, the Val d’Orcia and San Gimignano are must-see destinations for Tuscan charm.
The most beautiful villages to visit in November
If you love ancient villages, November is the perfect time for a road trip. Explore narrow streets, admire traditional crafts, and taste local delicacies. Many of these villages are just a short drive from major cities.
Spello
Nestled in the gentle Umbrian hills, Spello is known as the “City of Flowers”. Its well-preserved walls hide plenty to see, including the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Church of Sant’Andrea with its Giotto-school crucifix, and the Villa of the Mosaics, an ancient Roman residence.
Spello’s location in Perugia province also makes it easy to visit other Umbrian gems like Foligno, Assisi, and Montefalco.
Bellano
On the eastern shore of Lake Como, Bellano is ideal for a relaxing November break. The mild weather and smaller crowds let you enjoy the village at your own pace. Highlights include the Orrido di Bellano gorge, the historic centre, and the Church of Saints Nazaro and Celso.
Walking enthusiasts can follow the scenic Sentiero del Viandante trail, or take a boat to explore nearby lakeside villages, including Varenna.
Castel Gandolfo
Just a short distance from Rome, in the heart of the Castelli Romani, lies the village of Castel Gandolfo. This spot, ideal for a weekend of history and nature, is famous for hosting the Papal Palace, the summer residence of the popes. Open to visitors on certain days, it’s truly a marvel.
Castel Gandolfo also overlooks Lake Albano, a natural basin perfect for strolling along on warmer days and enjoying a meal at one of the many trattorias nearby. The local cuisine features a selection of cured meats and cheeses, along with traditional Roman dishes.
The village is nestled within the Regional Park of Castelli Romani, a protected area with lakes and trails that turn a rich orange during the autumn foliage. It’s the perfect place to unwind from work and relax for a few days.
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