Staying at an agriturismo in Italy is a great way to experience the country more locally while supporting its communities. If you’re looking to boost local tourism and stay in creative, authentic spots, add one to your next trip!
Before my first visit to Italy, I’d never heard of agriturismos. During my two weeks exploring the country, I stayed at two different ones – and I’ll always be adding them to my trips in the future. They’re a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Italian cities.
Below is everything you need to know before booking your first stay!
What Is an Agriturismo?
Staying in an agriturismo means trading hotel lobbies for working farmhouses surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. These family-run spots offer rooms, home-cooked meals, and a genuine taste of rural life.
An agriturismo combines agriculture and tourism: a real farm that welcomes guests with on-site lodging and food from its own land. You arrive at stone buildings with terrace views, greeted by owners who farm, cook, and share their world.
Agriturismos began as a way for Italian farmers to diversify their income and preserve rural traditions when small-scale agriculture became harder to sustain. In the 1980s, Italy introduced regulations allowing working farms to host guests, serve meals, and share products directly, creating a bridge between tourism and agriculture.
Over time, these farm stays evolved from simple accommodations into a wide range of experiences. From rustic family-style properties to refined countryside retreats. They all keep their roots in local food, culture, and community, with fresh, regional ingredients that make every meal memorable while supporting local farming.
Why Staying at an Agriturismo in Italy Beats a Hotel
These farm stays put you in the heart of Italian daily life. From chatting with cheesemakers at breakfast to touring the vineyard. Food shines: think warm bread, garden-fresh eggs, and dinners of pasta, local wine, and generational recipes. These few stays included some of the absolute best breakfasts and dinners I had in Italy.
Many of the stays even include activities like cooking classes, olive oil tastings, or harvest help. Even lounging by the pool feels tied to the farm’s energy.
Budget-friendly: Most stays are cheaper than nearby hotels or Airbnbs, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers!
Best Regions for Staying at an Agriturismo in Italy
I stayed at two different agriturismos while in Italy: one near Como, and the second in Tuscany just outside San Gimignano – both were incredible stays!. Here are a few other top regions with great options:
- Tuscany: Cypress hills, Chianti wines, and polished estates – perfect for first-timers.
Great Pick: Agriturismo Palazzi del Papa near Montalcino, with gardens, a pool, and on-site restaurant using estate produce like olive oil and Orcia wines - Umbria: Green valleys, olive farms, and quiet hill towns for a low-key escape.
Great pick: Agriturismo Fattoria Il Bruco near Perugia, a peaceful farm stay with a seasonal pool, garden, playground for kids, and to-go breakfasts. Great hosts and animal encounters make it family-perfect - Puglia: Ancient olive groves and seaside masserias blending beach and farm vibes.
Great pick: Masseria Cinti near Otranto, a peaceful estate with farm animals, veggies, olive oil, and space for kids—beach just 10 minutes away. - Sicily: Volcanic wines and bold dishes near Etna or the coast.
Great pick: Agriturismo Galea in Riposto, surrounded by organic lemon groves with a pool, green spaces, and Sicilian cuisine—close to Taormina and Etna.
How to Choose Your Agriturismo Stay
Most agriturismos are listed on third-party sites, but hidden gems often post directly on their own websites. Filter by your trip style (pool-focused luxury or activity-packed authenticity), check dinner availability and farm products (wine? cheese?), and review photos of common areas. Always read recent reviews to ensure it matches what you want.
Another great resource: Italy’s local agriturismo site, home to the largest selection of farm stays
Staying at an agriturismo in Italy creates lasting memories, like shaping pasta with Nonna or sunset toasts with the hosts, that turn a trip into something deeper!
