Best Places to Visit in Italy in October 2023

Wondering what are the best places to visit in Italy in October? – If you are planning a trip to Italy during the fall season don’t go any further.

In this article, travel writers with a passion for Italy have shared their favorite place in Italy to visit in October together with practical tips and beautiful pictures.

I am sure you will find a lot of inspiration for your next Italian adventure.

Italy is a country that boasts an abundance of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With the summer crowds dissipating, October is the perfect time to explore the country without the overwhelming tourist throngs.

Whether you’re interested in historic cities, scenic drives, or quaint villages, Italy has something to offer everyone.

So without any further ado, let’s dive in!

Best places to visit in Italy in October

1. Cefalù

Cefalù is a charming coastal town in northern Sicily, rich in history, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Whilst in Cefalù the most popular things to do would be to visit the stunning beaches and historic sites like the Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that dates back to the 12th century. Enjoy the delicious cuisine like the fresh seafood dishes, traditional pasta, and sweet treats like cannoli and cassata that Cefalù and Siciliy is known for. 

Cefalù is a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travelers. The town has a low crime rate, and you feel safe walking around alone during the day and at night.

Traveling to Cefalù from Palermo is easy as you can choose to travel by plane, train, car, and even bus.

Most of the sights and attractions are located within walking or cycling distance of each other. If you want to explore the surrounding area or visit nearby towns you can travel by bus, train, or taxi.

Although the best and most popular time to travel to Cefalù is during the summer. If you travel during October, the weather and sea is still warm enough to enjoy and the crowds are smaller. 

Is Cefalù worth visiting, then? yes, Cefalù is a must-visit destination in Italy with its unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine.

Contributed by Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers

2. Catania

Catania, Sicily’s second city nestled under the shadow of Mount Etna, is a diamond in the rough.

This gritty city may not appeal to everyone, but those who look past Catania’s rundown buildings will find a city full of history, vibrancy, and authentic Sicilian life.

No trip to Catania is complete without a visit to the daily fish market. Wander through to eye the catch of the day, then make your way to the adjacent farmers market.

This is a great place to purchase bread, cheese, olives, and more for a filling picnic lunch. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, which dominates the aptly named Piazza del Duomo, Catania’s main square.

October is a great time to visit Catania due to cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotels and airfare. 

You won’t need a car within Catania – in fact, it’s advisable for tourists NOT to drive within the city. However, if you plan to visit nearby towns or attractions, then renting a car is the best way to get around Sicily.

Visitors, especially women traveling solo, may have concerns about safety in Catania. Generally, the city is safe for all travelers. However, pick-pockets and scammers frequent tourist areas.

It’s best to exercise common sense and be alert to your surroundings. Women traveling alone should avoid wandering late at night and stick to well-populated areas.

Contributed by Tamar of World by Weekend

3. Alba

Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy in October is Alba, capital of the Langhe wine region in Piedmont. The Alba Truffle Festival is in full swing from the middle of the month and the region comes to life with the harvest of both grapes for winemaking and the elusive (and expensive) white truffles.

All the colors of the leaves change brilliant shades of red and gold making this medieval country town even more picturesque in the Fall.

A trip to Alba in October will of course include a stop at the International White Truffle Festival (note, this is held only during the weekend), climbing the medieval towers in Piazza Duomo, going on an underground tour to discover Ancient Roman ruins, and feasting on local cuisine and Barolo wine at one of the many excellent restaurants in town.

As the heart of the wine region, it makes for the perfect home base for an extended trip and if you decide to rent a car, you can easily explore the rest of the region from here including towns in Barbaresco. 

For those not interested in hiring a car or if you have limited time, Alba is easily connected by train to the capital of Piedmont, Turin. It makes for a safe and enjoyable spot as a solo female traveler, with a partner, or with a group of friends. 

Contributed by Olivia of Livguine.com

4. Siena

There are a few cities as charming as Siena in Italy! Despite its rather big size, Siena perfectly preserved its medieval charm. The historic center is beautiful to explore.

Where to start? Siena’s heart is without a doubt Piazza del Campo (Field’s Square). This central square which has a rather particular rectangular-shaped form is a theatre to the famous Palio di Siena.

A spectacular horse race between the city’s neighborhoods takes place twice in Summer.

Piazza del Campo is also where the impressive Torre del Mangia rise. Besides being Siena’s landmark, the 102 meters tower has also the most beautiful view of the city and its surroundings.

Is Siena a good idea for solo female travelers? Yes, it is! Locals are very friendly and willing to help and the whole city is safe in general. Of course, take the usual precautions and avoid walking alone at night.

How to get there and move around? In general, it’s better to rent a car when visiting Tuscany, you will be more independent as some of the most beautiful places, especially in Tuscany’s south, can be reached only by car.

An example? Val d’Orcia’s most iconic locations. As for how to arrive in Siena, look at flights to Florence or Pisa. They are both about 1.30 – 2 hours from Siena.

Contributed by Anita from Anita Beyond The Sea

5. Val d’Orcia

The stunning Val d’Orcia in Italy is a true gem and a great suggestion for a trip in October.

This picturesque area in the heart of Tuscany is considered by connoisseurs to be one of the most beautiful hill landscapes in Italy! Here you will discover Tuscany as you have seen it in the movies.

The gentle hills, the breathtaking views along the panoramic road, and the typical cypress avenues create a picture-book atmosphere. Especially in late fall, when the morning mist shrouds the fields, the Val d’Orcia is a dream.

But the many charming Renaissance villages, where you can stroll through medieval streets and experience Tuscany at its best, are also worth a visit.

A visit to Pienza considered the cradle of the Renaissance, is a must, but Montepulciano and Montalcino are also well worth a detour. 

As you stroll through the romantic old town, you will be amazed by the rich cultural heritage, the numerous historical sights, the romantic squares and beautiful buildings, the picturesque viewpoints, and the green surroundings.

The many excellent restaurants and wineries in the region invite you to take a break from sightseeing and taste some of the best vines worldwide.

Since 2004, the entire area of Val d’Orcia, with its numerous medieval towns and unique landscape, has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The best way to explore the Val d’Orcia is with your own or a rental car. Those who prefer to travel in a group can take a guided day trip to the Val d’Orcia from Florence or Siena.

Recommended by Martina of Places of Juma

6. Courmayeur

Courmayeur is in the north of Italy on the border with France. It is very safe and therefore a good destination for female solo travelers. 

The town center is very picturesque and you can easily spend a day wandering around the streets, browsing local shops and visiting cafes.

In addition to being a pretty town, one of the main reasons to come here is for the fabulous views of Mount Blanc and the hiking. 

October is before the snow and after the summer crowds. Many of the “refugi” in the area will have closed but it is the perfect time for day hikes.

The air is clear and crisp and there will be fewer people on the trails. Two of the best walks are to Refugio Bonatti and Val Veny.

A less strenuous way to get fabulous mountain views is by taking the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car to the viewing platform on the southern side of Mont Blanc. Or visit Chamonix, which is a half-hour drive or bus journey through a tunnel under Mont Blanc. 

The closest airport is in Geneva, roughly 1.5 hours away by car. Many companies operate transfers from the airport making it an easier option than getting from Milan, which is the closest airport in Italy.

From Milan, it is a 3-hour drive or over 4 hours on the bus. There is no train station in Courmayeur. 

A rental car provides more flexibility but it is also possible to visit this area without one and walk or use buses to the main sites.

Contributed by Kristin from Scotlandlessexplored.com

7. Naples, Italy

One of the best places to visit in Italy in October is the historic city of Naples. With temperatures hovering in the 60s and 70s and the summer crowd had gone back home, October is the best time to discover the many attractions of Naples. 

Stroll through the historic center of the city and step into the majestic Sansevero Chapel (famous for the Veiled Christ statue), the Basilica of Santa Chiara, and the Naples Archaeological Museum.

The underground city of Naples is a highlight and a must-have on any Naples itinerary. Explore the catacombs of Naples and do some shopping at Galleria Umberto, one of the oldest shopping malls in Europe. 

Naples is also the perfect base to explore the nearby Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

October is a great time to do that because the weather is pleasant enough to be outdoors exploring open-air museums like Pompeii. 

October is also an exciting month because Naples, Italy plays host to the Napoli Film Festival which is a celebration of Mediterranean cinema. It is also the time for the Chestnut Festival, a gastronomic event that celebrates Campania’s much-loved autumn snack. 

You can easily get to Naples by high-speed trains from Rome. Or take a flight to Naples International Airport.

Contributed by Soumya from Stories from Sumya

9. Lake Garda

There’s no shortage of postcard-perfect lakes in Italy, but Lake Garda, the largest of them all, is especially worth visiting thanks to its lovely beaches, picturesque towns, and lush surrounding natural scenery.

For these reasons, the lake is a popular summer destination, so in October, when the temperatures are not as high, you can enjoy it without the crowds.

While it might not be warm enough to go for a swim, and some days can be cloudy and even a bit rainy, the tranquility of the shoulder season will be worth it.

Lake Garda makes for a great northern Italy road trip location, yet it’s also reachable by train from Milan, so solo travelers who are not keen on renting a car can also enjoy it.

The train gets to the lovely Desenzano del Garda, from which you can slowly travel around the lake by public transport, hopping from town to town.

Notable stops on Lake Garda include the charming Sirmione and its castle, the colorful Malcesine, Riva del Garda and its mountainous backdrop, and the laid-back Limone Sul Garda.

It’s also worth driving/taking a bus from Riva del Garda to the turquoise Lake Tenno, a total gem in the area.

Other fun activities to try here are hiking, wine tasting, and relaxing in a thermal spa.

Contributed by Or of My Path in the World 

6. Lago Maggiore

Lago Maggiore is often overlooked by the better-known Italian sisters, Lake Como and Lake Garda.

But nestled in the foothills of the Alps straddling the Swiss border just northwest of Milan, lies the glistening waters of Lago Maggiore (or rather Lake Maggiore in English), framed by colorful villages and snow-capped mountains.

Come October, the summer throngs have left, and the trees have started to turn, but there’s still a lovely warmth in the day to make al fresco dining comfortably.

Spend your days cycling around the lake shores or hiking along the mountain trails (the temperatures have cooled off from the summer), stopping at a café or pizzeria to refuel, or maybe even fondue in a mountain restaurant.

An absolute must-do is to take the ‘Laveno Bucket Lift’ (a cable car) up to Sasso del Ferro (altitude approx. 1,100 m) from Laveno in what looks like a big green bucket.

There’s a café and restaurant at the top to take in the incredible views, as well as a playground for those visiting Lago Maggiore with kids.

Whilst there is a direct train from Milan to Laveno, to really make the most out of a visit to Lago Maggiore, a hire car is recommended.

Although be warned that some of the mountain passes are extremely narrow and winding. Alternatively, base yourself in Laveno and take the various ferries that crisscross the lake. 

Contributed by Jenny from TraveLynn Family 

10. Positano

If you’re looking for Italian travel destinations in October, consider Positano.

Although this charming spot on the Amalfi Coast is known as a top summer location, Positano is a must-visit destination year-round.

In October, the weather in Positano is still quite pleasant, with high enough temperatures that you could still swim in the Mediterranean on the warmest days–but the iconic beach chairs will already be packed away for the season.

While the days can be sunny and mild, the evenings tend to be cooler, so you’ll want to pack accordingly.

And because October is a bit less crowded than peak season, solo travelers will have more space to breathe and take in all this beautiful city has to offer.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s winding streets, visiting centuries-old churches and monuments, or taking in stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, this time of year offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Positano’s beauty without the hoards of tourists congesting the streets.

You can also take a boat tour to see the city’s iconic coastline from the water or consider hiking through the mountains surrounding the town for some truly breathtaking views.

Although driving to Positano alone is the most direct way to get there, you can take a public bus that runs around the area.

Once you’re there, you’ll be walking up and down hills to explore, so one of the best tips for visiting Positano is to wear a comfortable and supportive pair of shoes.

Contributed by Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost 

11. Matera, Italy

Sassi di Matera is one of the world’s most fascinating towns, having been continuously inhabited for 9,000 years, and known for its old cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs.

In the 1950s, the Italian government forcefully relocated residents out of the old caves to the upper part of the more modern town, due to disease and poor conditions in the cave system.

Several decades later, the revitalization and restoration of the Sassi started, turning the caves back into homes and creating hotels and restaurants.

In 1993, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its fascinating history dating to the Paleolithic period.

To start exploring the best things to do in Matera, make the Casa Noha museum your first stop, where you’ll learn more about the caves and the unique history of the town.

Next, get a taste of what life was like long ago at Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a reconstruction of an 18th-century cave house.

Don’t miss the beautiful Park of the Rupestrian Churches, which are ornate churches built into the cliffside and under UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Matera is a good destination for solo female travelers, with friendly locals and well-lit streets. October is a fantastic time to visit this unique town as the temperatures are mild and pleasant and the summer crowds have dissipated.

The town is accessible by car, bus from Bari or Naples, or train from Bari.

Contributed by Megan from Megan Starr

12. Ortisei

The mountain town of Ortisei makes a beautiful base to explore the stunning Dolomite region.

The mountains are gorgeous to visit all year, but particularly in October, especially if you are seeking cooler weather that’s perfect for hiking and fewer crowds. 

For female solo travelers, Ortisei is a great and safe destination to visit. If you love walking, the nearby hiking trails are well marked, so there are no concerns about getting lost but enough paths if you seek solitude. 

From the town, it’s just a short walk to the various cable cars and funiculars that take you up to the mountains.

If you plan to hike in the mountains, consider buying the Gardena card, which will save you time and money when using cable cars. 

As getting to the mountains is so accessible from Ortisei, having a car to explore the Dolomites is unnecessary.

And the town of Ortisei is easily reached by bus from Bolzano, which is easily reached by train. 

When not walking the mountain trails, the town of Ortisei is a delight to explore. Filled with cute boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, Ortisei is a lovely place to relax after a long day of exploring. 

Contributed by Sarah from Life part 2 and beyond

13. Venice

Venice is an enchanting city that is truly special. Its unique canals and stunning architecture make it one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. 

It’s a city that offers a lot of diversity, from its historic landmarks to its vibrant culture. Venice is also a very safe destination for solo female travelers.

With its low crime rate and friendly locals, you can explore the city with peace of mind. 

Two major attractions in Venice are St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. St. Mark’s Basilica is a stunning cathedral that boasts intricate mosaics and beautiful architecture.

Doge’s Palace, on the other hand, is an impressive palace that dates back to the 14th century. Both landmarks are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Venice.

The best time to travel to Venice is between April and October. During this time, the temperatures are pleasant, and there are no crowds in October. 

The summer months can be busy, and the heat can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and peaceful experience, October is the best time to visit.

You can get to Venice by train or airplane, depending on your location. The train station in Venice is well-connected, making it easy to get to the city from other parts of Italy. If you’re coming from further afield, you can fly into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport.

Once you’re in Venice, the best ways to get around are by Vaporetto, water taxi, or walking.

Vaporetti is a public water bus that runs along the canals and is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective.

Water taxis are a bit more expensive but offer a more private and convenient way to get around. 

Finally, walking is a great way to explore the city’s narrow streets and hidden alleys. Venice is a city that is best explored on foot.

Jo from World Wild Schooling 

14. Bologna

Bologna is famous for its historic architecture and ancient university, but probably most famous for its wonderful produce, some of the best in Italy.

When you visit Bologna, sampling local ingredients like Prosciutto Crudo, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, delicious homemade pasta Bolognese and Balsamic vinegar will be top of your to-do list!

October is a great time to visit the foodie city when the grapes have been harvested, mushrooms are ripe and truffles come into season, and the markets are full of the bounty of the land.

There are plenty of food and wine festivals throughout the season, with one of the largest fall festivals, TartuFesta, held in the hills around the city.

But there’s more to Bologna than delicious food. The red city is one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval cities, with grand squares, iconic towers, and UNESCO-listed porticoes.

Amongst all this history are modern art galleries, independent boutiques, and secret bars catering to a youthful student population as well as visitors. 

Bologna is known fondly by Italians as ‘the red, the fat and the learned’. The red for the beautiful color of its terracotta buildings, the fat for its wonderful food, and the learned for Bologna University, the oldest continuously operating university in the Western world.

To get to Bologna from Milan by car, pick up the A1 Autostrada and you’ll be there in a couple of hours.

Alternatively, take the 1 hour 15-minute train ride from Milano Centrale railway station to Bologna Centrale.

Contributed by Phil and Izzy from The Gap Decader

15. Alberobello

Nestled in the picturesque region of Puglia, Italy, lies the charming town of Alberobello.

You’ll be mesmerized by the quaint trulli, traditional dry stone huts with cone-shaped roofs that once housed farm tools, grain, or animals, which have been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stroll through Alberobello’s five enchanting areas, each with its own unique qualities. Rione Monti is a must-visit area as it boasts over 1,000 fascinating cones that house restaurants, souvenir shops, and museums.

Alberobello is a perfect destination for solo female travelers. It’s safe and walkable with ample guided tours and scrumptious restaurants. For the ultimate Italy bucket list experience, stay overnight in one of the best trulli hotels in Alberobello! 

To get to Alberobello, fly into Bari airport, and make your way to the city of Bari to catch the one-hour bus ride or rent a car at the airport and make the one-hour drive.

The prettiest time for a visit to this captivating town is in the summer when the flowers are in full bloom or in December when the town is decked out in lights.

If you prefer to skip the crowds, Alberobello is much more enjoyable in September or October, when the weather remains warm and the prices are more affordable. Alberobello is truly the jewel of Puglia, just waiting for you to discover its charm!

Contributed by Jenifer from The Evolista

16. Lake Como

Lake Como is a great place to visit in Italy in October. Being a very popular destination, Lake Como is very crowded during the summer months.

In October, you can have the entire place to yourself, without the crowds. The weather is still good in October, with warm days and average temperatures of 19-20 degrees during the day. 

Getting a ferry ticket on the same day is also very easy, if you are visiting in October. Traveling around Lake Como is very easy, by ferry or hydrofoil.

The hydrofoil is the fast boat that connects Como with Bellagio in just one hour. From there, you can reach the other towns by using the slow ferry which runs every half an hour or so. 

There are many beautiful towns around Lake Como which you can visit on a short break to this beautiful area of Italy.

Firstly, Como itself, which is the gateway to the lake. Getting here from Milano is very easy, by direct train.

The town is famous for its Cathedral, as well as the historic town where you can still see medieval constructions. Another fantastic place to visit on Lake Como is Bellagio. This is the most romantic of them all.

The narrow streets, the gorgeous views over the lake with the snowcapped mountains in the background, and the immaculate gardens of Villa Melzi and Villa Serbelloni will take your breath away.

Another great town to see is Varenna, which is one of the most beautiful on Lake Como.

Traveling around Lake Como as a solo female is very safe and easy.  

Contributed from Joanna from The World in My Pocket

17. Florence

If you are traveling to Italy in October, Florence must be one of the destinations you plan to visit!

Florence is famously known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and has a rich history and culture that is shown in its beautiful architecture, exquisite art, and delicious cuisine. 

The city is home to many world-renowned museums, galleries, and churches. Such as the stunning works of artat the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s original David statue at the Accademia Gallery, and the iconic Duomo. 

One tip for visiting Florence would be to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk a lot because the best way to get around Florence is by foot.

Stroll Florence’s charming streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and gelaterias, and taste some of the best Italian cuisine and gelato in the world. 

Florence is also a transportation hub. The city has access to buses and trains. It is not recommended to have a car in Florence because there is very little parking, and most of the streets are one-way or pedestrian-only.

October is the perfect time to visit Florence because it is the start of shoulder season, which means that tourist crowds have thinned out, and the weather is still relatively mild.

It is the ideal time to explore the city and its main attractions without having to battle through large crowds or face extreme heat. 

Florence, Italy, offers so many incredible things to do and experience for everyone. The city is a popular tourist destination and is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travelers.

You can read my Florence 2-day Itinerary and Where to stay in Florence to plan your trip.

Contributed by Alisha from Travel Today Work Tomorrow 

18. Ravello

The dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast makes it a global bucket-list destination but its beauty is only glimpsed in narrow swathes in the lovely coastal towns like Amalfi and Positano.

To see and appreciate the glorious coastline, the place to visit is Ravello.

Ravello is directly above Amalfi and is linked to it by a road full of switchbacks, but also by the old pathways made of steps that lead from the villages on the top of the cliffs to those on the coast.

Hotels and restaurants looking over the wide Bay of Salerno and at the villages, churches, and lemon groves that cling to the cliffsides.

If you’re wondering where to stay on the Amalfi Coast, there’s no better place than Ravello to see and appreciate its views. That’s why the world’s famous musicians, artists, and writers have been coming to Ravello for centuries.

Wandering the spectacularly planted gardens of centuries-old villas such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrione is why day trippers come to Ravello in hordes.

The Terrace of Infinity in the gardens of Villa Cimbrione has become one of the most spectacular wedding destinations in the world because of its view over the Amalfi Coast.

Ravello’s international music festival and its the stage on a terrace perched at the edge of the clifftop is the other main reason for visiting in summer.

Ravello is compact and centers around the main piazza and its Duomo. Cafes and restaurants ring the piazza and more can be found down the small winding streets of the Old Town as well as small shops selling ceramics.

The shoulder seasons however are a great time to visit Ravello because the little town is much quieter and it’s possible to wander into restaurants in the evenings without bookings.

Ravello is usually an expensive destination but it gets more affordable in the Spring and Fall/Autumn seasons when it’s also less crowded.

Contributed by Monique from Trip Anthropologist

19. Genoa

If you’re searching for the best Italian getaways in October, look no further than Genoa! 

Located in Italy’s northwestern region, Genoa has some great Roman architecture which contributes to the historic feel of the city. 

Arguably the most special aspect of the city is the city’s makeup. Set into the mountain range to the north, this creates incredible views over the city below.

Belvedere Castelletto is the scenic lookout spot you have to visit! To make the views even better, Genoa has a beautiful port that you must wander down and visit. This is also a great place to visit nearby areas such as Portofino. 

As for activities, make sure to grab some food along the harbor where the fish has been freshly caught and the pasta made by hand, while the Piazza Raffaele de Ferrari is a great spot for people-watching! 

Genoa is safe for solo-female travelers but always take extra care during the evening and nighttime hours. 

Like the rest of Europe, Italy, and Genoa has great transport links. This means that whatever city or destination you’re coming from it’ll be incredibly easy to get to Genoa.

For example, if you’re traveling from the rest of Europe, Genoa’s Piazza Principe train station connects the city to the major cities nearby as well as the nearby bus station.

Conversely, if you’re traveling from abroad then don’t worry as the Genova City Airport is very well connected. 

You do not need to have a car as it’s very easy to get everywhere by bus, train, or on foot.

On the other hand, if you have a car from Genova you can extend your trip to the scenic and not too far from the Cinque Terre, another Italian gem!

Contributed By Alex and Leah of Alex and Leah on tour

20. Milan

Another wonderful place to visit in Italy during the month of October is Milan. This city is regarded as one of the fashion capitals of Europe and is filled with high-end designer stores!

And one of the best places to go shopping is the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is home to some of the world’s most luxurious fashion labels like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton among others.

But, fashion isn’t all the city is good for, you can also admire the amazing Gothic architecture of the Duomo di Milano Cathedral, which is a 14th-century masterpiece.

Or, partake in the local food scene and indulge in delicious pasta. One place that’s especially popular for younger crowds is the Navigli district, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars with live music.

Plus, it’s a great destination for solo female travelers as the city has lots of hostels and its metro system makes it easy to get around. 

You even have lots of options for getting to Milan! You can fly directly into any of its three airports and take public transport, or you can take a train from other Italian cities. 

And in terms of the best time to visit September or October is ideal as the weather is pleasant during this time of year! So, if you’re looking for a lovely place to visit in Italy, be sure to consider Milan.

Contributed by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

21. Cinque Terre

Italy’s famed Cinque Terre is located on the Ligurian Riviera, a languid stretch of coast spanning from southern France to the treasures of Tuscany.

The five villages are oozing with old-world Italian charm, and are the ideal place to spend a few days sampling the delights on offer.

Laze on postcard-worthy beaches in Monterosso al Mare, hike between the Cinque Terre towns on ancient trails, escape the crowds at the hilltop Corniglia, and sample delicacies such as locally grown wines and pesto Genovese.

Even though you could argue the villages are set up for couples with twin sunbeds and romantic restaurants taking center stage, it also makes an excellent destination for a solo traveler, especially if you’re willing to get off the tourist trail and explore the culture behind the picture-perfect setting.

Cinque Terre is best accessed via trains that run from nearby La Spezia, as parking is expensive and limited, and the villages are best explored on foot.

To get between the villages, you can jump on the express train (the most popular option), take a ferry boat, or hike.

To avoid the masses that descend on the area every summer, visiting in Autumn is ideal, as you still benefit from mild temperatures, a swimmable sea, and far fewer visitors to share the beauty with. 

Contributed By Nadine of Le Long Weekend

22. Rome

For a great destination to visit in Italy in October, head over to Rome.

Rome in October has the most comfortable temperatures. Not to mention the fact that the busy summer tourist season has passed so it’s not overly crowded. 

In addition to the great temperatures and minimal crowds, Rome is a generally safe city to travel in.  Which means it’s a great destination for solo female travelers to visit.

Rome is easily accessible by plane, bus, and train. The international airport code FCO.  Traveling within the city itself is easy to do on foot, or by public transportation. 

It’s actually better to not have a car in Rome as parking can be a nightmare.

Highlights of a visit to Rome include the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Trevi Fountain. 

For the Colosseum make sure to book your tickets online in advance to secure your time-slotted visit and avoid waiting in an extra line. 

As for the Vatican, entrance into the cathedral itself is free.  But make sure to book your Vatican Museum tickets in advance. 

The Trevi Fountain is quite possibly the most famous fountain in Rome. 

Note that it’s located in a small space that can get extremely crowded.  Visit in the early morning to enjoy it with the least amount of people.  

Enjoy your October visit beautiful Rome!

Contributed by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

23. Capri

Located in the Bay of Naples, the island of Capri has long drawn in those in need of its cure. With a stunningly rugged coastline of soaring cliffs fringed by crystal-clear waters, the natural wonders of Capri are bountiful.

In its more recent history, Capri has become a favorite destination amongst the rich and famous, so it also offers glitz and glamor to those that step onshore. 

For solo female travelers, Capri is a fantastic destination. The island is relatively small and very easy to get around, whether on foot or by the reliable bus service that links the island’s main areas.

Getting to Capri is easy too, with regular ferry links from Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Due to its high footfall, you’ll rarely feel isolated and while quieter spots are to be found, you won’t ever be too far from another person.

There are also plenty of activities, such as boat tours, that you can join as a solo traveler. 

There is no shortage of things to do in Capri, from taking in the iconic Faraglioni rock formations to the island’s luxurious beach clubs and chic shopping scene.

For those who prefer more active pursuits, there are plenty of opportunities for walking and hiking, including the trail that leads to the beautiful Arco Naturale.

You’ll find many restaurants on Capri offering a wide range of dining experiences, from casual beachside eateries to elegant Michelin-starred establishments.

For history and culture buffs, the island boasts several fascinating villas, such as Villa Lysis and San Michele, as well as the ruins of Roman Emperor Tiberius’ villa. 

The best time to visit Capri is in the months after the busy summer season. By October, crowds will have dissipated somewhat and the weather remains mild, if even hot, at times.

Contributed by Isabelle from Cultured Voyages

24. Stromboli Island in Sicily

Stromboli Island, one of the most beautiful Aeolian islands, is located off the coast of Sicily in Italy.

It’s the most out-of-the-world place on planet Earth. It’s the perfect place for adventure seekers and solo female travelers. 

October is one of the best months to visit Stromboli because at this time it’s not too hot and not too cold. The average temperature is 21 °C degrees during the day.  

Stromboli is one of the four active volcanoes in Italy and one of the most active volcanos in the world. Stromboli has been erupting for almost 2,000 years. The last big explosion occurred on 3 July 2019 which took everyone by surprise. This eruption brought about an incredible 5 km long ash column above the island of Stromboli.

Nevertheless, it’s considered a safe place to travel to and the island attracts a lot of tourists. 

The most popular thing to do on Stromboli is the sunset hike. Trekking to the craters of Stromboli to watch the glorious sunset over the island and eyewitness Stromboli’s blazing explosions is an unforgettable experience.

The explosions are a maximum of a few hundred meters high and contain ash, incandescent lava fragments, and stones.  

The summit crater of Stromboli Volcano is situated at an altitude of 926 meters above sea level but tourists can only hike up to 400 meters above sea level. But to go all the way up to 400 meters, you are required to join a tour with a local guide.

You are also free to hike alone but without a guide, it’s only allowed to hike to 300 meters.

The second best thing to do is to spend time on the glittering black sandy beaches of the volcano and floating it in the Tyrrhenian Sea surrounding Stromboli.

The water temperature in October is approximately 25 but close to the place where the lava comes down, it feels like boiling water. 

Moreover, you have the chance to rent a boat or kayak and paddle along the coast of Stromboli.

Stromboli is only accessible by ferry. You can choose to get there from the Sicilian port town Milazzo by slow ferry or by speed boat. Once you are on the island, you can get pretty much everywhere on foot.  

Contributed by Diana, The Globetrotting Detective

Is October a good month to visit Italy

Yes, October can be a great month to visit Italy, depending on what you’re looking for in a trip. Here are some of the benefits of visiting Italy in October:

✅ Smaller Crowds

October is considered shoulder season in Italy, which means fewer tourists and shorter lines at popular attractions. This can make it easier to explore the country’s iconic landmarks and cities without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

✅ Mild Weather

In general, the weather in Italy during October is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 22°C (72°F), depending on the region.

This can be a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and walking tours, without the intense heat of the summer months.

Especially the South of Italy is much more enjoyable in October.

✅ Harvest Festivals

October is the season for harvest festivals throughout Italy, particularly in wine regions like Tuscany and Piedmont. You can participate in grape stomping, wine tastings, and other celebrations of the autumn harvest.

✅ Lower Prices

Since October is considered shoulder season, many hotels, flights, and tours may offer lower prices compared to the peak summer months. This can be a great opportunity to save money while still enjoying all that Italy has to offer.

Overall, October can be an excellent time to visit Italy for those looking for a more relaxed and authentic experience, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Places to Visit in Italy in October: Final Thoughts

Italy’s rich history, culture, and cuisine make it a fantastic destination to explore year-round.

However, I love Italy in October which can be a great time to visit, as there tend to be fewer tourists compared to the summer months and the weather is generally mild.

I hope this post inspired your wanderlust and you now start planning your next trip to Italy next October.