The classic Italian honeymoon destinations of Rome, Venice and the Amalfi Coast are all lovely, but this varied country has so much more to offer. From picnics in rural olive groves to hot air balloon trips and mountain retreats, Top Travel Italy will plan entirely bespoke vacations based on your desires, always ensuring their trips are rooted in a deep sense of territory. Laura Ariemma, CEO and co-founder of the Italy-based travel company, explains that by listening carefully to the experiences couples hope to have on their honeymoon, she and her team are able to add a depth of experience that is perfect for each couple.
Below, Laura shares seven more unusual destinations that Top Travel Italy recommends when you’re starting to think about when beginning to plan your honeymoon.
Romantic olive groves in Puglia
We all think of Puglia's glistening coastline and white sandy beaches, but the sun-baked southern region’s interior is equally magical. Plan a day exploring olive groves and learning about the ancient methods of gathering, pressing, and cooking with olives — whose oil was once so essential to Pugliese life that they even used it to light street lamps — before relaxing with a picturesque picnic under the dappled shade of the olive trees. Top Travel Italy can arrange a gourmet picnic in the grounds of a former mill about 30 minutes from the hotspots of Alberobello and Cisternino, with selected local products and regional wines laid out for you and your date.
The lost island of Mazzorbo
If you’re looking for a summer honeymoon, don’t make the mistake of joining the throngs on Venice’s main island. Instead, organize a private boat journey from Venice to the lost (and retraced) island of Mazzorbo nearby, where time appears to have stood still. You can still watch farmers at work with their ancient tools, surrounded by the silence of nature, and eat a meal prepared with the island products. If you haven’t seen a bottle of wine made of pure gold leaf yet, that is your chance!
Say it with chocolate in Turin
Chocolate is a natural aphrodisiac, and it’s not just for Valentine’s Day. Head to the historic center of Turin, a less obvious yet equally enchanting destination for a honeymoon city break, to get to know some of the famous and historic chocolate houses. At one of the city’s traditional chocolate workshops, just a stroll away from the iconic Mole, couples can create their signature candy, guided by the wisdom of a master chocolatier.
Hot air balloon over Cortona
Head to southern Tuscany for a nature-filled honeymoon, ideal for those who love rolling hills, sleepy villages, and plenty of red wine. Top it off with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over Cortona, setting off before sunrise and drifting gradually over the misty hills and valleys as the sky fills with light. Once you land, you’ll be treated to a Champagne breakfast in the fields, before being driven back to your hotel.
Hot springs in Sirmione
The ancient Romans knew all about Lake Garda and the miraculous properties of the thermal water of Sirmione, and they’re just as popular with lovers today. The hot springs are said to have healing properties, and couples have been visiting them for centuries to relax and rekindle their romance. The hot water that flows from the springs is rich in minerals like sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, which can help soothe tired muscles and improve skin health. Some of the hot springs are open to the public, while others are part of luxury spa resorts that offer private access. Follow the footsteps of the ancient Romans and indulge in the steamed pool overlooking the lake view, before enjoying a couples massage and treatment.
Explore the Etna slopes un a Jeep
For active couples (and early birds) this is an unforgettable experience to add to the bucket list. The view from the top of the highest volcano in Europe is incomparable, and the tasty reward will be an amazing Sicilian cannolo, filled on the spot with a creamy, delicious ricotta.
Feast like a local in Umbria
Between Florence and Rome, the land-locked region of Umbria is fast catching up with Tuscany as the must-visit destination for Italian honeymooners who like to drive along country roads, stopping at delicious restaurants and vineyards on the way. Known as the ‘Green Heart of Italy’, the region also has an exquisite culinary offering. Fancy a wine tasting in a 500-year-old castle deep in the Umbrian hills. Or sampling olive oil produced by ancient local families in the same way for generations? You’ve come to the right place.
About Top Travel Italy
Top Travel Italy is an Italian luxury Destination Management Company (DMC) that creates bespoke travels, including inspiring cultural tours and authentic experiences, priority and exclusive access to monuments and museums, private transportation and booking of selected accommodations. Co-founder Laura Ariemma and the whole team are proud Italy lovers and deep connoisseurs of the delights of the country, and every trip they suggest is filled with first-hand experiences and an insiders’ approach. Each product is carefully designed to focus on regional wine and culinary excellence, historic and artistic treasures, artisanal traditions, energizing outdoor activities and more. They specialize in honeymoons, romantic getaways and behind-the-scenes tours.
Contacts
Website
reservations@toptravelitaly.com
Tel. +1.212.796.6912
