Autumn is on its way, bringing cooler days, clear skies, and landscapes transforming into a mosaic of warm colors. It’s the perfect time to get your motorhome or caravan ready and set off to discover Italy during a season full of authentic emotions.
As the summer crowds fade, villages return to their peaceful rhythm and the roads become quieter, making motorhome travel even more enjoyable. During this time, Italy fills with scents and flavors thanks to festivals dedicated to local specialties: freshly roasted chestnuts, mushrooms gathered in the woods, new wine with the aroma of harvest, and truffles with their unmistakable taste.
With Agricamper, you can combine the freedom of traveling with the discovery of local traditions, easily finding a stopover in nature all over Italy. Download the app and try the free demo version to see where all our stopovers are located. Autumn is almost here: it’s time to hit the road and experience the magic of this season.
The Best Autumn Festivals in Italy
Each region has its own local festivals, and traveling at this time of year means immersing yourself in authentic traditions. Here are some unmissable events, perfect for a motorhome or caravan itinerary.
1. Piedmont: Truffles and Wine Among Hills and Historic Villages
When autumn arrives, Piedmont turns into a palette of colors and aromas. The hills of the Langhe and Roero glow with warm shades, vineyards prepare for the harvest, and the air fills with scents that evoke tradition.
The undisputed queen of the season is Alba, world-famous for the International White Truffle Fair of Alba, held every year between October and November. Here you can enjoy a unique atmosphere with truffle stands, shows, cultural events, and tastings of local dishes such as tajarin with truffle, raw Alba-style meat, and traditional cheeses.
After visiting the fair, take a walk through the historic center: admire the San Lorenzo Cathedral, wander among ancient medieval towers, and climb to viewpoints for breathtaking views of the rolling hills. Nature lovers can follow scenic trails connecting the vineyards of Barolo, Barbaresco, and La Morra—perfect for an autumn hike surrounded by the scent of must and fallen leaves.
2. Lombardy: Authentic Flavors Among Lakes and Mountains
As autumn settles in, Lombardy dresses itself in warm and welcoming colors. Alpine peaks start to turn white, while valleys and lake shores transform into a patchwork of yellows, oranges, and reds.
One of the most anticipated events is the Mostra del Bitto, held every year in mid-October in Morbegno, in the heart of Valtellina. This festival celebrates one of the region’s most iconic cheeses, Bitto, a centuries-old alpine product. You can watch cheese-making demonstrations, taste different aging stages, and discover other local specialties like bresaola, pizzoccheri, and Valtellina wines.
Morbegno also offers a charming old town, with elegant buildings, picturesque alleys, and the beautiful Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista—a perfect place for a stroll steeped in history and tradition.
For nature lovers, a trip along the Sentiero Valtellina, which runs along the Adda River, is ideal for walking or cycling immersed in autumn scenery. Nearby villages like Tirano and Chiavenna offer enchanting views and a deeper dive into local culture.
3. Emilia-Romagna: Tortellini Among Villages and Hills
At this time of year, the Emilian countryside offers not only unforgettable landscapes but also a variety of festivals dedicated to the season’s specialties.
One of the most awaited events is the Castelfranco Emilia Tortellini Festival, held annually between late September and early October. This celebration pays tribute to one of Emilia’s most iconic dishes: tortellini. Here you can taste the classic version in broth as well as creative recipes crafted by local pasta makers. After the festival, continue on to Modena, where Piazza Grande, the Cathedral, and the Ghirlandina Tower—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offer a truly unforgettable walk.
Nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss an excursion to the Po Delta Regional Park, a paradise for birdwatching, photography, and long walks among canals, lagoons, and woods. In autumn, this area becomes a refuge for many migratory species, offering ever-changing scenery.
4. Tuscany: Wine, Chestnuts, and Picture-Perfect Villages
Autumn in Tuscany is a true feast for the senses. The region, already renowned for its beauty, becomes even more enchanting as vineyards turn red and gold, forests fill with the scent of chestnuts, and the cool air invites exploration of unique villages and landscapes.
One of the most famous events is the Marradi Chestnut Festival, in the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines. Every October, this charming village comes alive with stalls offering Mugello chestnuts in every form: roasted, in traditional desserts like castagnaccio, jams, and even fresh pasta made from chestnut flour. The festival features music, performances, and a warm atmosphere that will make you feel like part of the local community.
After indulging in autumn flavors, take a walk through Marradi’s historic center, full of narrow alleys and picturesque squares. Nature lovers can explore the Sacred Forests Trail, where beech and chestnut woods create a stunning autumn color palette.
5. Umbria: Woods, Villages, and Autumn Flavors
In autumn, Umbria shows its most authentic and captivating side. Known as Italy’s green heart, the region glows with warm tones as medieval villages come alive with seasonal festivities and traditions.
One standout event is the Festa del Bosco in Montone, held between late October and early November. This beautiful medieval village transforms into an autumn wonderland.
As you wander its cobblestone streets, you’ll find stalls offering forest products like mushrooms, chestnuts, truffles, and honey, alongside hot soups, handmade pasta, cheeses, and Umbrian cured meats. Folklore shows, craft markets, and historical reenactments create an unforgettable local experience.
6. Marche: Rolling Hills, Villages, and Culinary Traditions
In this season, the Marche region is full of colors and aromas—perfect for those who want to explore authentic culinary traditions and local festivals.
One of the most unique events is Leguminaria, held every October in Appignano, Macerata province. This festival celebrates local legumes like chickpeas, lentils, and beans, featured in rustic dishes that tell the region’s farming story. The village streets come alive with food stalls, folklore shows, art exhibits, and local product markets.
A special touch: dishes are served in handmade ceramic bowls crafted by local artisans, which visitors can take home as a keepsake—a perfect blend of taste and culture.
7. Calabria: Woodland Scents and Traditions in the Sila Mountains
In autumn, the forests of the Sila mountains take center stage, offering the perfect backdrop for trekking, cycling, and long nature walks.
The heart of Calabria’s autumn beats in Camigliatello Silano, where the annual Mushroom Festival takes place between October and November. This event celebrates one of the most beloved local ingredients: porcini mushrooms. The streets come alive with food stalls serving risottos, polenta with mushrooms and sausage, hearty soups, and other traditional dishes. Folklore shows, live music, and artisan markets make this a true celebration of local culture.
After the festival, explore the Sila National Park, one of Italy’s oldest parks, with trails winding through pine and beech forests, scenic lakes like Cecita, and breathtaking autumn views.
8. Sicily: Autumn Flavors Between Sea and Mountains
Sicily, a land of contrasts and timeless beauty, offers a truly unique travel experience in autumn.
One of the season’s highlights is the Bronte Pistachio Festival, held between late September and early October at the foot of Mount Etna. Bronte is the home of the world-renowned DOP pistachio, often called Sicily’s “green gold.” During the festival, the streets fill with stalls offering pistachios in every form—from traditional sweets like cannoli and cassata to savory dishes like fresh pasta, arancini, pizza, and cheeses.
After visiting the festival, explore the nearby Etna Park, with trails winding through chestnut forests and ancient lava flows. For city lovers, a stop in Catania is a must: stroll along Via Etnea, admire Piazza del Duomo with its Elephant Fountain, and soak up the vibrant city life with its markets, baroque churches, and historic palaces.
Conclusion
Traveling in autumn means discovering a different side of Italy, full of unique aromas, colors, and flavors. Whether you love truffles, chestnuts, or pistachios, every region offers unforgettable experiences to enjoy with the freedom of a motorhome, caravan, or campervan.
With Agricamper, you can turn every weekend or holiday into an authentic adventure, staying for free for one night at carefully selected farms across Italy. Download our app now, explore the map, and start planning your next trip through autumn festivals, villages, and landscapes.
Ready to go? Get your Agricamper membership and discover over 500 farms across Italy where you can stay free for 24 hours, all year long, for just €39.90!
