October is only a few weeks away, but if you’re like me, you’ve probably already hauled out your favorite autumn decor. This time of year is filled with cozy flannels, apple orchards, and vibrant fall colors. It is the same in Italy, plus October is considered a shoulder season, which means there are fewer tourists in the country coming off of the high season of summer. If you love everything about the fall season, book a trip to Italy and add some of the following activities to your list. 

Attend the Rome Film Festival 

If you are a movie buff, then October in Rome is the best place to be. Every year, the best of Italian cinema gather to celebrate the year’s upcoming projects. Attending the festival is a great way to support the arts and maybe catch a glimpse of one or two of your favorite celebrities. 

Stay in Venice

Next to Rome, Venice probably one of Italy’s most crowded city’s when its tourist season. Take advantage of this time and book a few nights in the floating city. You’ll be able to appreciate Venice’s beauty without having to battle other visitors for a view. 

Explore The City of Witches

Known as The Salem of Europe, Triora was the site of the last witch trials in Italy. In 1587, The town was suffering from drought and famine, which they believed to be the work of witches. Over 30 women were accused, with many being burned at the stake. Triora now has a museum dedicated to the trials where visitors can explore the accusations and methods used to extract confessions. There are also dozens of souvenir shops and tours of the former residences of some of the accused. 

Sample the Products of EuroChocolate

An annual festival held in the city of Perugia, EuroChocolate is one of the biggest chocolate festivals in the world. Visitors can take tours of the local chocolate factory and sample the product in almost every form, from liquor to fountains. This is also a perfect opportunity to purchase some treats for the trip home. 

Hike Through the Foreste Casentinesi National Park 

Located in Eastern Tuscany, this National Park is one of the best places to visit if you want to experience the fall colors of Italy. The park is one of the continent’s largest and is home to over 40 species of trees. The best time to visit is in mid-October through mid-November; that’s when everything is at its loveliest. 

Visit The White Truffle Festival 

Held throughout October, Alba’s White Truffle Festival celebrates the delicious, but extremely rare, white truffle mushroom. Attendees will get to interact with professional truffle hunters, while renowned chefs create new dishes featuring the delicacy. In addition, there is wine tasting, music, and a hot air balloon show. 

Sources:

• The Town of Witches [Atlas Obscura]
• Things to Do in October [Italian Breaks]
• Italy in October [Italy 4 Real]
• Tuscany in October [Travel Away]
• Feature Picture [Wikimedia]