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10 travel ideas for April: springtime destinations in Italy

April is the month of spring, Easter, Liberation Day, and more. Daylight stretches a bit longer and the sun warms the Italian peninsula. The air is scented with blossoms and Italy’s landscape softens in shape and color. It’s the ideal moment for a break before summer! Here are our recommendations for a springtime escape.

In Italy the choices abound: our country offers a vast array of unique and extraordinary places where you can experience Italian culture and flavors. From north to south, between the sea and the mountains, from hidden villages to spectacular parks and remarkable cities of art, there is literally something for everyone. 

Here’s a guide to finding your ideal destination.

1. Valle del Chiese, Trentino Alto-Adige

Located in southwestern Trentino, Valle del Chiese takes its name from the river that flows into Lake Idro along which thirteen picturesque villages await discovery. At an altitude of more than 3,400 meters, Adamello Brenta Natural Park boasts a vast and varied landscape of cultivated fields, mountain pastures with traditional dairy farms, perennial glaciers and crystal-clear lakes.

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In this uncontaminated paradise, far from chaotic cities and mass tourism, you can relax and enjoy the springtime weather, partake in a myriad of outdoor activities and taste Trentino’s seasonal flavors for a completely regenerating experience. Go trekking through the park’s lush woods and meadows, or give climbing, mountain biking and canyoning a whirl. Among the villages we highly recommend visiting Bondone and Brione. In the latter you can admire the farms of Valle Aperta, church of San Bartolomeo and characteristic barns, while in Bondone you can stroll through the village to see the one-of-a-kind murals painted on the walls of its houses.

 

 

 

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Better known as "little Venice", Chioggia allows you to experience the extraordinary magic of lagoon living without the crowds and jaw-dropping prices of Venice. Not by chance, several films set in the Serenissima have been shot here.

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Chioggia is located a few kilometers from Veneto’s capital on a group of islands connected by bridges. In this delightful town of medieval origin you can visit the small historic center abounding with elegant buildings, the grandiose Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Tower of Sant'Andrea, a 30-meter tall bell tower which houses one of the oldest clocks in the world. Take a walk along the banks of its enchanting canals, cross the bridges and admire the many vibrant boats. Pass under the stone arches and go down the long, narrow alleys for a truly enjoyable stroll that gives you an authentic glimpse of local life. 

Another worthwhile attraction is Chioggia’s bustling fish market. Here you can soak in the lively atmosphere and time-honored fishing traditions, or hop on a boat cruise to the island of Pellestrina.

 

 

 

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Liguria is yet another extraordinary region, rich in enchanting scenery, picture-perfect villages, history and art. From the Riviera di Levante to the Riviera di Ponente, every town is magical - you're simply spoiled for choice!

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If you’re looking for a romantic destination, head to Portovenere in the heart of the Bay of Poets in La Spezia. With its twisting alleyways, brightly colored houses, towers, churches, arches and picturesque harbor, the atmosphere is dreamlike. In fact, Portovenere once captivated the English poet, Byron, who fell in love with its promontory, site of St. Peter Church and a remarkable view. Legend has it that Venus, the goddess of love, was born here. Don’t skip a boat trip to the surrounding islands: Palmaria, with its picturesque paths, Tino and Tinetto.

 

 

 

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April is also an ideal month to visit Tuscany where art, food and wine, festivals and artisanal crafts abound.

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Chianti paints a heavenly backdrop for the region’s precious history and flavours. Here endless itineraries meander across the rolling hills and through medieval villages still unchanged over time. In addition to the breathtaking beauty of its surroundings, Chianti offers wine enthusiasts a myriad of options for cellar visits and tastings.

The Chiantigiana is a wonderfully scenic road which crosses Chianti from Florence to Siena. Traveling this panoramic route is a great way to discover the area and visit these two beautiful cities famous throughout the world. Start with a tour of the Tuscan capital, Florence, taking time to visit its museums, palaces and churches including the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Brunelleschi's Dome, Baptistery, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Basilica of Santa Croce and Church of Santa Maria Novella.

After exploring the city, head into the countryside towards Greve in Chianti, a town famous for its wines. From here you can choose which route to follow - Arno Valley or Via Cassia - continuing on to Panzano and Radda in Chianti or Castellina. In both directions you will encounter postcard-perfect villages and grand castles, vineyard views and fairytale forests.

Upon arrival at the gates of Siena, prepare to be awe-struck by the city’s fan-shaped square, Piazza del Campo, the Duomo, Torre del Mangia and Baptistery.

 

 

 

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In Umbria’s Terni province, the town of Narni hides its archaeological treasures beneath the earth’s surface. Discover them on a unique tour which takes you through underground frescoed churches, along the ancient Roman cisterns and aqueduct, and up to a large room used centuries ago as a torture chamber.

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When you emerge, Narni’s captivating landmarks will grab your attention. Don’t miss the Podestà and Priori palaces, Abornoz Fortress, a medieval castle which houses an interactive museum, Garibaldi fountain, San Giovenale Cathedral, which is named for the city's patron saint, and the churches of San Domenico and Sant'Agostino.

Narni’s narrow streets, squares, stairways and shops exude charm. Take a stroll through its historic center and then head towards the Augustus Bridge high above the Nera river, a 160-meter-long Roman artefact. On the slopes of Mount Santa Croce, admire the Benedictine Abbey of San Cassiano and the stunning panorama.

 

 

 

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Overlooking the Adriatic, Termoli is a lesser known but no less beautiful area off the traditional tourist track. A fishing village with just over thirty thousand inhabitants, it’s located in the heart of Molise and has quite a lot to offer: gorgeous deserted beaches, a verdant countryside and artistic treasures galore. In April, the seaside atmosphere offers visitors pleasant walks along the coast and into the historic centre of Borgo Vecchio along a network of narrow streets, small squares and colourful houses.

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Termoli’s cultural attractions include the Swabian Castle, symbol of the city built in the 11th century from limestone and sandstone, and the San Basso Cathedral. From the harbor you can take a boat to the beautiful Tremiti islands, or head inland a few kilometers to the green rolling hills where you can discover small hamlets surrounded by forests, olive groves and vineyards.

 

 

 

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One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Naples overflows with charm, art, history and delicious gastronomy. Its unique beauty is further enhanced by Vesuvius looming on the horizon and the city’s extraordinary local monuments such as the Royal Palace and Piazza del Plebiscito. Take advantage of the mild spring weather for a tour of Campania’s capital and its surroundings.

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The colors of the Sorrento peninsula are especially alluring in April along this dramatic stretch of coastline famous for clear waters, villas, parks and sumptuous gardens with aromatic citrus groves. Sorrento itself effortlessly enchants visitors with its historic square, cobblestone alleys, craft shops, trattorias and beautiful beaches. Enjoy a memorable meal of local delicacies including fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and olive oil. And finally, don’t miss the sunset: look towards Punta del Capo, Ischia or Procida for a truly phenomenal spectacle.

 

 

 

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Salento is an especially magical place. Temperatures permitting, April can be a wonderful time to enjoy its heavenly beaches and crystal clear waters, often referred to as the Maldives of Italy.

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Located in southern Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot-shaped peninsula, this beautiful region is framed between the Ionian and Adriatic Sea and spans the provinces of Taranto, Brindisi and Lecce to the extreme tip of Leuca. With olive groves as far as the eye can see, spectacular coastal caves, white sand and rock beaches, Salento boasts a striking natural landscape dotted with baroque towns, dolmens (megalithic tombs), farms, menhirs (prehistoric standing stones), fortresses and castles. Amidst the colors, scents and flavors of this indelible land, new experiences await you at every turn.

 

 

 

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One of the island’s many majestic cities, Palermo captivates visitors with its dynamic character, testament to the multitude of cultural influences that have dominated Sicily over centuries.

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Some of the city’s most significant monuments include the Royal Palace, today Sicily’s regional headquarters and home to the resplendent Palatine Chapel with its golden mosaics and inlays; the 6th century church of San Giovanni degli Eremiti of Arabic origin; Cathedral of the Assumption containing tombs of Norman emperors; Villa Niscemi; the 15th century Gancia Church and Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio; Teatro Massimo; Fontana Pretoria; Parco della Favorita; and the Oratory of Santa Zita. Plus, don’t miss out on Palermo’s vibrant market scene, an authentic slice of colorful local life.

A short distance from Palermo you will find the delightful town of Monreale, whose Norman-Byzantine cathedral and grand cloister are one of Italy’s most important national monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. From atop the village you can take in the view of Palermo and the spectacular coastline. 

For total relaxation, visit the many coves and beautiful beaches just outside the city. We recommend Cefalù, a characteristic seaside village between the fortress and the sea. Browse its alleys and shops and visit the magnificent Cathedral. Here too, don't miss the sunset over the sea - a spectacle guaranteed to enchant!

 

 

 

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In April, Sardinia is one of the most enchanting places in the Mediterranean. The sky and the sea merge on the horizon into a crystalline turquoise, quiet reigns supreme, and cultural gems wait to be discovered.

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With this in mind, let us introduce you to one of the island’s most renowned destinations in the north-west: Sassari. Nature, history and art are the protagonists of this beautiful city rich in cultural heritage. The modern city center is surrounded by remains of ancient walls and in Piazza Italia, the main square and soul of Sassari, a bustling everyday vibe unfolds amidst nineteenth-century buildings.

Some of the most important monuments are the St. Nicholas Cathedral in Piazza Duomo, St. Catherine Church and the Rosello fountain, one of the symbols of the city. Visitors can enjoy the National Archaeological Antonio Sanna Museum and the Sassari Brigade Museum located in Piazza Castello, as well as Sassari’s Public Gardens where you can admire the expansive meadows, huge trees and pretty fountains.

The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities to explore the great outdoors including Lake Baratz, Cyclamen Valley, Lu Cantaru, Rio Mascari and Logulentu Valleys and many beaches, each more beautiful than the other.

These are our ten travel ideas for April: choose your ideal destination for an exciting and memorable spring break! In just one click you can book your favourite Italian agritourism and get ready to enjoy a fun and relaxing holiday.