Autumn in Italy is the perfect season to discover and fully experience the best food and wine festivals. Autumn in Italy is a feast for the senses, where the landscapes are painted with vibrant hues of red, gold and orange, and the air carries the enticing aromas of harvest. Travelling in the autumn means fewer tourists, a slower pace and the chance to explore Italy’s rich culture with ease. Whether we’re navigating the scenic roads of Umbria or savouring local delicacies in Puglia, autumn allows us to connect more intimately with the Italian way of life.
Over the years, while exploring Italy, our team of curious travel writers has been lucky enough to experience autumnal food and wine festivals in the regions where our beautiful Emma Villas properties are situated. Together, we’ve explored the rolling hills of Chianti, the sun-kissed landscapes of Sicily and everywhere in between. In this article, we’re excited to share our favourite festivals happening this autumn, along with a selection of stunning villas nearby.
Tuscany: Montescudaio DOC Wine Festival
When: 5th – 6th October 2024
Where: Montescudaio, Tuscany
We began our journey in Montescudaio, a charming village that hosts one of Tuscany’s most anticipated wine festivals. The Montescudaio DOC Wine Festival, held every first weekend of October since 1967, brings together wine lovers to celebrate the region’s vibrant wine culture. We spent two days sampling local wines, enjoying traditional Tuscan dishes and soaking up the lively atmosphere created by blues and jazz performances.
Stay Near the Wine Festival: Villa Le Mandrie
Just an hour’s drive down the coast, we stayed at Villa Le Mandrie, in Punta Ala. This stunning villa, with its stylish interiors, wellness area and serene coastal views, was the perfect retreat after a day of wine tasting. The villa’s contemporary design, blending local lava stone and fine mosaics, made it feel really special, providing a tranquil space to relax and reflect on our experiences at the festival.
Tuscany: San Miniato White Truffle Festival
When: 16th November – 1st December 2024
Where: San Miniato, Tuscany
Truffle season in Tuscany is unmissable, and the San Miniato White Truffle Festival did not disappoint. Over three weekends in November, the historic town of San Miniato transforms into a gourmet haven filled with market stalls, truffle-infused dishes and local producers eager to share their culinary expertise. As we wandered through the cobblestone streets, we were captivated by the aroma of fresh truffles and the bustling atmosphere that enveloped the town.
Stay Near the White Truffle Festival: Villa Panorama
An exceptional base for this festival has to be Villa Panorama, a beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse surrounded by olive groves, situated within easy reach of the festival. It is the kind of place where you can feel completely at home, with its blend of traditional charm and modern luxury providing the perfect setting for truffle-themed culinary experiences. After exploring the festival, you can unwind in the villa’s whirlpool tub, taking in the panoramic views of the sublime Tuscan landscape.
Umbria: Frantoi Aperti
When: 19th October – 17th November 2024
Where: Various Locations, Umbria
Frantoi Aperti, or “Open Olive Mills,” celebrates Umbria’s agricultural traditions through tours, tastings and live music. We visited several locations across Umbria, learning about the olive oil production process and savouring the region’s exceptional extra virgin olive oils. Just sampling fresh bread dipped in the olive oil was a unique experience that connected us to the heart of Umbrian culture. See more on the Frantoi Aperti website.
Stay Near the Frantoi Aperti: Fontanicchio
Fontanicchio, a stunning villa near Lake Trasimeno, was our base for exploring Frantoi Aperti. A gorgeous villa, it is conveniently situated near three of the locations for Frantoi Aperti this year – Tuoro sul Trasimeno, Passignano sul Trasimeno and Magione. Nestled between Tuscany and Umbria, this rustic stone villa with its spacious interiors and fabulous garden was the ideal retreat. We enjoyed al fresco dining under the portico as the sun set over the lake, embracing the slower pace of autumn in Umbria.
Umbria: Eurochocolate
When: 15th – 24th November 2024
Where: Perugia, Umbria
Eurochocolate in Perugia is Europe’s largest chocolate festival and a dream come true for many of us! We explored artisanal chocolate stands, attended workshops and indulged in tastings that filled the historic city streets with a lively festive atmosphere. Being surrounded by chocolate in all its forms was a delight, and we couldn’t resist sampling as much as possible.
Stay Near Eurochocolate: Casale Ripi
Casale Ripi, just 45 minutes or so south of Perugia, was our base during the festival. This beautifully restored country house combines traditional materials with contemporary design, offering serene outdoor spaces and elegant interiors. It was the perfect spot to relax after a day at Eurochocolate, and we took every opportunity to unwind in the peaceful garden.
Umbria: Zafferiamo in Città della Pieve
When: 26th – 27th October 2024
Where: Città della Pieve, Umbria
Zafferiamo celebrates the rich tradition of saffron in Città della Pieve, blending the town’s history with its vibrant culinary scene. Over two days, we tasted homemade pasta, cheeses and meats all infused with saffron, and learned from expert chefs about the secrets of cooking with this prized spice. The market showcased a variety of saffron-based products, including cheeses, liqueurs and even saffron beer.
Stay Near Zafferiamo: Poggio alle Trese
We stayed at Poggio alle Trese, an impressive country retreat nestled between Città della Pieve and Chiusi. This elegant farmhouse, lovingly restored, effortlessly blends original features, such as wooden beams and terracotta floors, with modern country style. Evenings dining under the pergola and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside made our stay truly magical.
Sicily: Ottobrata Zafferanese
When: Every Sunday in October 2024
Where: Zafferana Etnea, Sicily
Ottobrata Zafferanese, set in a village on the vast lower slopes of Mount Etna, is one of Sicily’s most celebrated autumn festivals. We spent a glorious Sunday exploring market stalls filled with delicious wine, honey, chestnuts and mushrooms, experiencing the vibrant traditions and fresh produce of this fertile region. With warm sunshine and the dramatic backdrop of a smoking Mount Etna, this festival was a highlight of our Sicilian adventure.
Stay Near Ottobrata Zafferanese: Villa Sumac
Villa Sumac, set amidst vineyards and olive trees, was our stylish retreat during Ottobrata Zafferanese. With its panoramic pool, hot tub and al fresco dining area, this renovated farmhouse offered an exceptional base for luxurious relaxation. We explored nearby Baroque towns, soaked up the Sicilian landscape and enjoyed the villa’s comfortable interiors—a perfect base for our autumn adventure.
Puglia: Novello sotto il Castello
When: 15th – 17th November 2024
Where: Conversano, Puglia
Novello sotto il Castello in Conversano is a celebration of young wines and traditional Puglian dishes, and we loved the warm ambiance that defined this festival. From folk dances to local food stalls, the streets came alive with the vibrant culture of Puglia, offering a truly authentic taste of the region.
Stay Nearby: Trullo Santa Pazienza
We stayed at Trullo Santa Pazienza, a charming trullo house situated an easy drive away from the festival. With separate living spaces perfect for families or couples, this villa’s laid-back style, beautiful garden and outdoor dining areas were the ideal setting for unwinding after the festival. We enjoyed leisurely strolls through surrounding villages, savouring every moment of our autumn escape in Puglia.
Find your ideal Italian villa
These festivals offer a unique way to experience Italy’s autumn harvest and culinary traditions. They are not just about food and wine but about celebrating the heart of Italian culture. Whether you’re tasting the latest vintage wines, indulging in gourmet truffles or simply enjoying the atmosphere of Italy’s charming towns, they provide a unique focal point for a villa holiday experience. Combine your visit with a stay at one of our Emma Villas properties to make your autumn holiday truly memorable. Contact us to discuss your wish list and find your ideal villa.
