Unique Italy: Exceptional Elevated Experiences in the Bel Paese

From serene lakes to majestic mountains, bustling cities to picturesque coastlines, Italy boasts a rich variety of landscapes and adventures for every traveler. Whether you seek an action-packed getaway or a peaceful escape, a lively urban experience or deep cultural engagement, this guide highlights some of the most unique and lesser-known elevated experiences in the bel paese.

Culinary Delights

Italy is renowned for its culinary delights and artisanal food practices, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the sourcing and creation of some of its finest products. Lace up your walking shoes for a truffle-hunting expedition in the forests of Piedmont. With the help of specially trained truffle dogs, you'll follow in the footsteps of generations past.

Wine enthusiasts should not miss the wineries of Tuscany, where you can indulge in wine tastings directly from the barrel. For a more interactive experience, join a guided tour of Venice’s Rialto Market, where you can select fresh lagoon fish and vegetables for a cooking class.

Make it happen: Fly with Lufthansa to Turin, Florence, and Venice to immerse yourself in Italy’s renowned food and drink culture.

History

Italy is steeped in rich and intricate history, with sites spanning from the Roman era to the Renaissance for you to explore based on your interests. For a unique experience, consider a private after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums, or join a morning tour with the Vatican’s Key Master as they unlock the museum’s galleries.

If you’re passionate about Roman history, the ancient city of Herculaneum, located near Naples, is a must-visit. Buried under volcanic mud during the Vesuvius eruption of 79AD (the same disaster that engulfed Pompeii), the city remains remarkably preserved. Enhance your visit by touring with an archaeologist who will vividly narrate the city's history as you stroll through its ancient streets, villas, and Roman baths, while admiring stunning frescoes and mosaics.

Make it happen: Flights to Rome and Naples provide convenient access to Italy’s historical gems.

Excitement

For thrill-seekers, Italy offers a wealth of high-octane activities. The central region of Emilia-Romagna boasts luxury sports car brands like Lamborghini, Maserati, and Ferrari, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of driving these cars on tracks or the streets of Maranello.

If you're seeking adventure at great heights, consider a helicopter tour over Sicily's Mount Etna. From above, you can witness the recent lava flows and ancient craters of Europe’s largest active volcano.

Prefer a ground-level adventure? Embark on a guided hike along a via ferrata in the Italian Dolomites. These climbing routes range from beginner to advanced, and participants use harnesses to secure themselves to steel cables, rungs, and ladders while ascending for breathtaking views.

Make it happen: Lufthansa provides flights to Bologna, located in the heart of Emilia Romagna. To reach Mount Etna, fly into Catania. The Dolomites are slightly more remote but can be accessed via transfers from Verona or Venice.

Culture

Originating in Italy over 400 years ago, opera remains a vibrant art form today. The 1st century AD Roman Arena in Verona is one of the most spectacular locations to enjoy a performance, especially during the summer season when audiences can enjoy shows under the stars in this grand open-air setting, one of the largest from the Roman Empire.

For a more hands-on adventure, visit the Venetian island of Murano. With over 700 years of tradition, this island is known for its masterful glassmaking, and visitors can participate in their own glassblowing session, crafting a small glass piece to take home.

Make it happen: Flights into Verona and Venice will place you right in the heart of these vibrant cultural hubs.

Relaxation

For the ultimate relaxation, escape to the ocean, lakes, or mountains. If you’re seeking a seaside getaway, visit the islands of Ischia and Procida in the bay of Naples. Ischia, a beautiful alternative to Capri, features luxurious hotels, thermal springs, seaside dining, and sandy beaches. Nearby Procida, recognized as Italy’s cultural capital in 2022, boasts the charming pastel harbor of Corricella and unique black sandy beaches. Both islands are easily accessible by ferry for a combined visit.

For a freshwater adventure, the northern Italian Lake District is unbeatable, stretching from Milan to Verona. To capture the quintessential Italian experience, rent a classic wooden boat on Lake Como and leisurely navigate the lake, taking in the historic palaces while sunbathing and swimming throughout the day.

For a mountain retreat, visit Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high alpine meadow nestled among the majestic Dolomites. Stay in a luxurious mountain chalet and enjoy scenic strolls through the fields, or explore the area via horse-drawn carriage or e-bike. For something truly unique, treat yourself to a hay bath, a spa treatment that uses dried hay and traditional mountain herbs based on historic practices.

Make it happen: Lufthansa offers flights into Naples, Verona, and Milan, providing the ideal access to your relaxation journey.

Shopping

Known as the capital of Italian fashion, Milan boasts everything from quaint boutiques to prestigious fashion houses. Spend a day exploring the latest trends, accessing exclusive designer showrooms, and discovering beloved local brands by hiring a personal shopper to lead the way.

Looking for leather goods? Florence is celebrated for its long-standing tradition of crafting high-quality leather items. Visit a leather atelier to order custom-made apparel or accessories, or participate in a leather-making workshop where you can gain insight into the craft and even create a piece yourself.

Make it happen: Discerning travelers can easily fly into both Milan and Florence with Lufthansa.

Lodging

Unique Italian experiences can often be found in the lodging itself. The city of Matera, located in southern Basilicata, is the third-oldest continuously inhabited city worldwide. For centuries, residents lived in cave dwellings known as sassi. Today, many of these ancient caves have been transformed into restaurants, apartments, and hotels equipped with modern comforts. To embrace the history and uniqueness of this UNESCO World Heritage site, consider booking a stay in a renovated cave hotel.

Alternatively, venture to the nearby Puglia region and stay in a trullo in the Valle d’Itria, a hilly area near Bari. These picturesque circular stone buildings are a highlight of the region, particularly concentrated in the historic town of Alberobello. You can find accommodations in a trullo in Alberobello itself or among the scenic rolling hills of the countryside.

Make it happen: Lufthansa offers flights to Bari and Brindisi, opening the door to this lesser-known region of Italy.

Italy is a country rich in stunning natural landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and a deep historical legacy, all wrapped in a unique culture and a strong appreciation for local traditions. Whatever your travel style or interests may be, Italy offers a wealth of distinctive and elevated experiences, making it a must-visit for any discerning traveler.

When you’re ready to embrace the world, Lufthansa provides service to 19 Italian destinations. All these adventures – and more – are easily accessible via transfers from Bologna, Florence, Naples, Venice, Milan, Rome, Genoa, Turin, Verona, Trieste, Pisa, Bari, Catania, Cagliari, Palermo, and Olbia.