10 Italian destinations for spring: hidden gems to discover

Spring in Italy is the perfect time to visit before the summer crowds arrive, you get to enjoy the first warm days of the year, visit beautiful city without suffering the summer heat, and you can enjoy aperitivo sitting outside in a beautiful cafè. This list of Italian destinations for spring is a collection of my personal recommendation, places you may already know and some smaller hidden gems that you need to discover. From cities full of history and art, to small towns known for the amazing views and great food and wine offering, you will definetely find the perfect place to visit.

I will also include tips on how to get to these places, some can be reached easily both from Milan and Rome, some are more accessible either from Milan or Rome.

1. Torino (Turin)

Turin comes alive in spring as the city’s numerous parks and gardens burst with color. If you are visiting the city on a nice day you need to check out Parco del Valentino, a large public park that becomes a hub of activity on sunny weekends, offering a perfect green retreat in the heart of the city.

Cultural attractions abound, with the world-renowned Egyptian Museum housing one of the most important collections of ancient artifacts outside Egypt. The iconic Mole Antonelliana, home to the National Cinema Museum, offers a unique experience crowned by a panoramic elevator ride to the top for breathtaking 360° views of the city and the Alps beyond. You can also visit the Duomo where the Holy Shroud is kept, and visit the beautiful Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama.

If you love vintage shopping and flea market check out my guide to the best vintage markets in the city.

How to get there

You can reach Turin very easily by high speed train (Porta Nuova or Porta Susa train station) from Milan or Rome, less than 1 how from Milan and less than 5 hours from Rome.

Good to know

• If you plan to visit several museums you should consider a “Torino+Piemonte card“, for 2 days it’s around 40€ and gives you access to most museums and other advantages.
• Bring your water bottle and fill it up in the many fountains around town, the so-called “Turet”

2. Orta San Giulio

This enchanting lakeside borgo is a hidden gem with timeless charm. Its mostly pedestrian streets wind down to the shores of Lake Orta, offering spectacular views of the mystical San Giulio Island that seems to float peacefully on the water. The island, with its Romanesque basilica and monastery, creates a spiritual atmosphere perfect for quiet contemplation.

As the weather warms in spring, the lake becomes an ideal refuge from city heat. Explore the shoreline to discover secluded beaches where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility of the pristine waters.

Food lovers shouldn’t miss Villa Crespi, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Antonino Cannavacciuolo. Set in a 19th-century Moorish villa, it offers an unforgettable culinary journey blending Mediterranean tradition with innovative techniques.

How to get there

From Milan, take a regional train to Novara (about 1 hour) then a local train to Orta-Miasino station (another hour). You can also get there by car quite easily.

Good to know

The San Giulio Island is connected by a boat service, get all the info here. Parking can be limited, so arrive early or consider public transport; the boat trips to Isola San Giulio are frequent but check the timetable for the last return.

3. Padova (Padua)

This vibrant university town is easily accessible by train and offers a perfect spring getaway. The Scrovegni Chapel should be your first stop, with its magnificent Giotto frescoes and starry ceiling – be sure to book your visit in advance.

Stroll through the elegant Piazza dei Signori with its historic clock tower featuring zodiac signs, then relax at one of the many outdoor cafés with a traditional spritz. Other must-see attractions include the historic Palazzo Bo (the university’s main building), the expansive Prato della Valle square, and the Basilica of St. Anthony, affectionately known simply as “Il Santo.”

How to get there

From Milan, take a direct high-speed train that arrives in Padua in about 2 hours; from Rome, a direct high-speed train takes approximately 3 hours.

Good to know

It’s really necessary to book the visit to the Scrovegni Chapel in advance here. You can also consider a guided tour + Chapel visit with GetYourGuide.

4. Siena

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, Siena awakens in spring with festive colors and centuries-old traditions. Begin with a walk through the medieval historic center, with its cobblestone streets, lively squares, and ancient buildings that tell stories of a glorious past.

The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, famous for hosting the Palio horse race twice a year, offers a perfect spot to soak in the Sienese atmosphere. Visit the Gothic Palazzo Pubblico and its Civic Museum to admire masterpieces like Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s “Good Government” frescoes.

The black-and-white marble Duomo is another architectural jewel, housing sculptures by Donatello and Michelangelo. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Complete your visit with local cuisine – try the pici cacio e pepe pasta, panforte dessert, and renowned Tuscan wines. If time permits, take a short drive to the medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its striking towers.

How to get there

From Rome, take a direct train to Siena (about 3 hours) or a bus from Tiburtina station; from Milan, take a train to Florence (1.5 hours) and then a regional train or bus to Siena (another 1.5 hours)

Good to know

Walking around a city with many slopes and steps can be tiring, wear comfortable shoes; many restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so plan your meal times accordingly and check opening hours.

5. Lazise

This charming town on the shores of Lake Garda is perfect for warm spring days. Take a leisurely stroll along the colorful harbor with its small boats and visit the impressive Scaliger Castle. After exploring the lakefront promenade, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants and wind through the town’s streets, perhaps stopping at a wine shop to sample some excellent local Bardolino wine.

If traveling with children (or if you’re young at heart), consider a day trip to nearby Gardaland amusement park – weekdays are best to avoid crowds.

How to get there

From Milan, take a train to Peschiera del Garda (about 1.5 hours) and then a short bus ride to Lazise

Good to know

Lake Garda weather can change quickly, pack layers; parking near the historic center is often paid and busy during peak season.

6. Ferrara

With its impressive medieval walls and Renaissance treasures, Ferrara is a city waiting to be discovered. The historic center, largely car-free and filled with bicycles, makes for pleasant exploration. The majestic Estense Castle and the beautiful Cathedral of San Giorgio are must-see attractions.

Don’t miss the famous Palazzo dei Diamanti, named for its unique diamond-shaped façade, which hosts rotating art exhibitions. As a university town, Ferrara has a vibrant social scene – in the evening, you’ll find plenty of cafés and bars in the center where you can enjoy a drink and experience the city’s lively atmosphere.

How to get there

From Milan, take a direct train to Ferrara (about 2 hours); from Rome, take a high-speed train to Bologna (2 hours) and then a regional train to Ferrara (another 30 minutes)

Good to know

The city is very bike-friendly, rent one to explore; many museums close on Mondays, double-check opening days.

7. Urbino

This Marche region gem, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, deserves a spot on your spring itinerary. Begin with a relaxed walk through the historic center to admire its Renaissance splendor. The Ducal Palace houses the National Gallery of the Marche, where you can see the famous “Ideal City” painting attributed to Piero della Francesca.

Urbino is also Raphael’s birthplace, and you can visit the house where the celebrated painter was born. Located in the heart of Montefeltro, the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the city walls are breathtaking natural masterpieces.

How to get there

I recomment renting a car from Rome and driving to Urbino.

Good to know

The city is hilly, expect some steep climbs; the Palazzo Ducale requires pre-booking during busy periods.

8. Gaeta

With golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, Gaeta offers a perfect spring escape. Explore the medieval historic center and admire the cathedral’s bell tower. The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception inside the Sanctuary of Santissima Annunziata is a true jewel, covered in gold and artworks.

Another highlight is the Temple of San Francesco, perched atop a long staircase that rewards climbers with spectacular views. Don’t miss the famous “Montagna Spaccata” (Split Mountain), Gaeta’s symbolic landmark.

How to get there

I recomment renting a car from Rome and driving to Gaeta.

Good to know

Sperlonga and Gaeta beaches get crowded in summer, arrive early to secure a spot; parking near the historic center and beaches is challenging during peak season.

9. Alba

While best known for its autumn truffle fair, Alba is equally delightful in spring, especially as part of a tour of the Langhe region. The historic center is beautiful, lively, and filled with shops and restaurants where you can enjoy excellent Piedmontese dishes paired with fine Langhe wines.

For a high-end dining experience, visit chef Enrico Crippa’s Michelin-starred restaurant Piazza Duomo in the city center – though there are plenty of options for every taste and budget throughout the city.

How to get there

From Milan, take a train to Turin (1 hour) and then a regional train to Alba (about 1.5 hours).

Good to know

Truffle season is in autumn, book restaurants well in advance; many shops close for during lunch break, plan your shopping accordingly.

10. Trieste

With its fascinating blend of cultures and traditions, Trieste makes for an unforgettable spring destination. Start at Piazza Unità d’Italia with its beautiful seafront view, then stroll along the waterfront promenade. Check if there’s a performance at the elegant Teatro Verdi that interests you.

Venture just outside the center to visit Miramare Castle, surrounded by splendid gardens that are particularly beautiful in spring. Trieste is also famous for its historic cafés – take time to enjoy a drink at renowned establishments like Caffè degli Specchi or Caffè Urbanis, where you can experience the city’s unique cultural atmosphere.

How to get there

From Milan, take a direct train to Trieste (about 4 hours).

Good to know

The ‘bora’ wind can be very strong, especially in winter, so pack windproof layers; Trieste has a rich coffee culture, be sure to try a local ‘capo in b’ (a special way to make macchiato coffee) in one of the historic cafes.

Spring in Italy offers the perfect blend of pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists than the summer months. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, lakeside retreats, or coastal gems, these ten destinations showcase the diverse beauty of Italy during this magical season.

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