As the weather warms up in March, the Italian peninsula transforms into a vibrant playground for travelers. From the picturesque coastlines to the charming countryside, this article will take you on a journey through 15 destinations across northern, central, and southern Italy, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
North Destinations and Weekend Proposals
Italy’s north is home to some of its most stunning landscapes, from the rugged Ligurian coast to the picturesque Tuscan hills. Here are our top picks for a weekend getaway:
La Spezia, Liguria
This charming coastal town is the perfect base for exploring the Gulf of Poets, one of Italy’s most breathtaking stretches of coastline. Visit the imposing Castello di San Giorgio, dating back to the 13th century, or stroll through public gardens and liberty-style sculptures.
- Proposed weekend: Borghi and Delights of the Cinque Terre
- Getting there: Fly into Genoa or Pisa airports and take a train to La Spezia.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of La Spezia’s many hotels or B&Bs, starting from €85 per room.
Verona, Veneto
Romance is in the air in Verona, famous for its stunning medieval architecture, world-class opera house, and picturesque piazzas. Visit the iconic Juliet’s Balcony, explore the Castelvecchio fortress, or take a romantic stroll along the Adige River.
- Proposed weekend: Romantic Verona
- Getting there: Fly into Venice or Milan airports and take a train to Verona.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Verona’s many luxurious hotels or B&Bs, starting from €120 per room.
Torino, Piemonte
This elegant city is the perfect blend of art, history, and culture. Visit the iconic Mole Antonelliana, explore the Castello del Valentino palace, or take a stroll through the picturesque Parco del Valentino gardens.
- Proposed weekend: Elegant Torino
- Getting there: Fly into Turin airport and take a train to Torino.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Torino’s many stylish hotels or B&Bs, starting from €90 per room.
Barolo, Piemonte
For wine lovers, Barolo is the ultimate destination. Visit the iconic Castello di Barolo winery, explore the picturesque vineyards, or take a stroll through the charming streets of the town center.
- Proposed weekend: Wine Country
- Getting there: Fly into Turin airport and take a train to Savigliano.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Barolo’s many agriturismos or B&Bs, starting from €70 per room.
Alba (Canazei), Trentino-Alto Adige
This charming town is nestled in the heart of the Dolomite mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the iconic Castel Franza castle, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Lago di Canazei.
- Proposed weekend: Mountain Retreat
- Getting there: Fly into Verona or Innsbruck airports and take a train to Bolzano.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Alba’s many mountain lodges or B&Bs, starting from €80 per room.
Como, Lombardia
This charming lake town is the perfect destination for those looking to relax in style. Visit the iconic Como Cathedral, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful Lake Como.
- Proposed weekend: Relaxing Como
- Getting there: Fly into Milan airport and take a train to Como.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Como’s many luxurious hotels or B&Bs, starting from €150 per room.
Central Destinations and Weekend Proposals
Italy’s central region is home to some of its most stunning landscapes, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the picturesque lakes of Umbria. Here are our top picks for a weekend getaway:
Siena, Toscana
This charming medieval town is famous for its stunning Piazza del Campo and beautiful cathedral. Visit the iconic Siena Cathedral, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
- Proposed weekend: Charming Siena
- Getting there: Fly into Florence airport and take a train to Siena.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Siena’s many charming B&Bs or agriturismos, starting from €80 per room.
Assisi, Umbria
This picturesque hill town is famous for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the iconic Basilica di San Francesco, explore the charming streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Umbrian countryside.
- Proposed weekend: Spiritual Assisi
- Getting there: Fly into Perugia airport and take a train to Assisi.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Assisi’s many cozy B&Bs or agriturismos, starting from €70 per room.
Terni, Umbria
This charming town is nestled in the heart of the Umbrian countryside and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the iconic Terni Cathedral, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Umbrian countryside.
- Proposed weekend: Hidden Gem
- Getting there: Fly into Perugia airport and take a train to Terni.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Terni’s many charming B&Bs or agriturismos, starting from €60 per room.
Termoli, Molise
This picturesque coastal town is nestled in the heart of the Adriatic Sea and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. Visit the iconic Termoli Cathedral, explore the charming streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach.
- Proposed weekend: Beach Getaway
- Getting there: Fly into Bari airport and take a train to Termoli.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Termoli’s many seaside hotels or B&Bs, starting from €80 per room.
Ferrara, Emilia Romagna
This charming medieval town is famous for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the iconic Castello Sforzesco, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Emilian countryside.
- Proposed weekend: Historic Ferrara
- Getting there: Fly into Bologna airport and take a train to Ferrara.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Ferrara’s many luxurious hotels or B&Bs, starting from €100 per room.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
South Destinations and Weekend Proposals
Italy’s south is home to some of its most stunning landscapes, from the rugged Amalfi Coast to the picturesque islands of Sicily. Here are our top picks for a weekend getaway:
Napoli, Campania
This vibrant city is famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. Visit the iconic Castel dell’Ovo, explore the charming streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach.
- Proposed weekend: Vibrant Napoli
- Getting there: Fly into Naples airport.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Napoli’s many lively hotels or B&Bs, starting from €80 per room.
Sorrento, Campania
This charming coastal town is nestled in the heart of the Amalfi Coast and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the iconic Sorrento Cathedral, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach.
- Proposed weekend: Coastal Sorrento
- Getting there: Fly into Naples airport and take a train to Sorrento.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Sorrento’s many seaside hotels or B&Bs, starting from €100 per room.
Palermo, Sicilia
This vibrant city is famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. Visit the iconic Palazzo dei Normanni, explore the charming streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach.
- Proposed weekend: Vibrant Palermo
- Getting there: Fly into Palermo airport.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Palermo’s many lively hotels or B&Bs, starting from €80 per room.
Ostuni, Puglia
This picturesque coastal town is nestled in the heart of the Apulian countryside and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the iconic Ostuni Cathedral, explore the charming streets of the town center, or take a stroll along the beautiful beach.
- Proposed weekend: Charming Ostuni
- Getting there: Fly into Bari airport and take a train to Ostuni.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Ostuni’s many seaside hotels or B&Bs, starting from €80 per room.
Ragusa, Sicilia
This charming hill town is famous for its stunning architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the iconic Ragusa Cathedral, explore the picturesque streets of the town center, or take a stroll through the beautiful Sicilian countryside.
- Proposed weekend: Historic Ragusa
- Getting there: Fly into Ragusa airport and take a train to Ragusa.
- Accommodation: Stay at one of Ragusa’s many agriturismos or B&Bs, starting from €70 per room.
Conclusion
Italy is a country that has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for history, culture, nature, or simply a delicious plate of pasta. With its 15 destinations and weekend proposals, this article will help you plan the perfect trip to Italy in March. From north to south, we’ve explored the infinite opportunities that Italy has to offer, between countryside and historic centers, coastlines with dreamlike scenery, and enchanted villages, sites of art, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Italy?
A: The best time to visit Italy depends on your preferences. March is a great time to visit as the weather warms up and temperatures rise significantly.
Q: How do I get around Italy?
A: There are many ways to get around Italy, including trains, buses, and car rentals. It’s also possible to take a guided tour or rent a private driver.
Q: What should I pack for my trip to Italy?
A: Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as well as any necessary documents such as your passport and travel insurance.
Q: Can I drink tap water in Italy?
A: Yes, it’s safe to drink tap water in Italy.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Italy?
A: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit Italy. Be sure to check the Italian government website for more information.
Q: Can I use credit cards in Italy?
A: Yes, most businesses in Italy accept major credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard.
Additional Tips
- Book accommodations in advance: Italy is a popular destination, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance to avoid high prices and availability issues.
- Research local transportation options: While trains are widely available in Italy, they can sometimes be crowded and expensive. Research local transportation options such as buses and car rentals to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
- Pack layers: Italy’s weather can vary greatly depending on the season, so be sure to pack layers that will keep you warm and comfortable.
- Be prepared for crowds: Popular destinations like Rome, Florence, and Venice can get very crowded during peak travel seasons. Be prepared for large groups of tourists and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Italy is a country that has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for history, culture, nature, or simply a delicious plate of pasta. With its 15 destinations and weekend proposals, this article will help you plan the perfect trip to Italy in March. From north to south, we’ve explored the infinite opportunities that Italy has to offer, between countryside and historic centers, coastlines with dreamlike scenery, and enchanted villages, sites of art, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
We hope you have a wonderful time exploring Italy, and we wish you all the best on your next adventure!
