Recommended adventures in Italy
Cycle the countryside and coasts
From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast, cycling lets you discover every inch of Italy’s natural scenery. Ride through rustic villages and rugged coasts, and get jaw-dropping views of Italy’s finest mountain ranges.
- Best time to cycle: April – June (spring) and September – October (fall) to avoid the overwhelming heat of the summer.
- Tip: Make sure you bring sunscreen and loose-fitting long sleeves for your biking expedition. There is often no shade on cycling routes in Italy and you will be vulnerable to sunburn.
Hike the mountains
From the dramatic Dolomites to smoldering volcanoes, hiking adventure tours in Italy will test your limits. Many of Europe’s storied mountain ranges dot Italy’s landscapes, and they present unparalleled views of sparkling lakes, jagged cliffs, and verdant forests.
- Best time to hike: April – June (spring) and September – October (fall) for more comfortable hiking temperatures.
- Tip: The Alta Via 1 route is a must-see adventure in Italy when touring the eastern Dolomites. The 150-kilometer trail traverses through canyon walls, serrated peaks, and the transparent Braies Lake.
Scuba dive
Italy is quickly becoming a renowned destination for scuba divers due to its warm, crystal clear waters, caverns, coral reefs, and sunken ships. Whether on the mainland or islands, scuba diving is one of the best adventure activities in Italy to explore the depths of the sea.
- Best time to scuba dive: April – June (spring) and September – October (fall) to escape peak crowds while still enjoying warm waters.
- Tip: Visit the Parco Sommerso di Baia near Naples to discover the remains of the sunken city of Baia. This underwater archaeological park features sculptures, buildings, and villas that have been preserved beneath the surface for centuries.
Snowboard in the alps
Italy is home to many of the highest peaks in Europe, and its rugged mountains attract the world’s most talented snowboarders. World-class pistes and well-groomed slopes create the perfect recipe to get big air during your tour of Italy.
- Best time to snowboard: December – April (winter) when the ski resorts receive their highest amount of snowfall.
- Tip: Located close to the Swiss-Italian border, Livigno is the place to be for snowboarders of all levels. Its heavy snowfall, diverse piste terrain, and exciting snow parks make it one of Italy’s winter gems.
Kayak in the sea and alpine lakes
Bordered by four seas and teeming with interior lakes and rivers, Italy offers an endless number of kayaking excursions. From the shores of Sicily to the enchanting Italian Lake District, you’re never too far from an exciting kayak adventure tour in Italy.
- Best time to kayak: April – June (spring) and September – October (fall) due to fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
- Tip: Head to the island of Sardinia to discover some of the most remote landscapes in Europe or kayak in the azure-blue waters of the Gulf of Orosei to explore sea caves, grottos, and limestone cliffs.
