What to do in Italy in May

May is one of the very best months to discover Italy: the weather is mild, nature is in full bloom and tourist crowds are significantly lighter than during the peak summer season. With the May Day long weekend offering the perfect opportunity for a short getaway, the options multiply—especially in Northern Italy, where our cultural and food & wine experiences are waiting for you.

The North comes alive with vibrant events, festivals, and celebrations. In Turin, May is synonymous with culture and music; in Milan, the blooming Navigli invites you for scenic strolls, while on Lake Garda and Lake Como, boat excursions are in full swing. If you’re wondering what to do in Italy in May or planning your long weekend, this guide is designed just for you.

Como: Elegance and History on the Lake

Lake Como in May is simply stunning. Historic villas such as Villa Olmo and Villa Balbianello are surrounded by lush gardens in full bloom. A perfect idea for a day trip is our guided tour through the heart of the city.

• The historic center: Discover the soul of Como as you walk along medieval walls and visit the impressive Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
• The main squares: Admire the beauty of Piazza Cavour and Piazza Volta while listening to fascinating stories about Como’s silk tradition.

Ideal for: Lovers of history and refined landscapes seeking a relaxed experience.

Discover our private Walking Tour of Como’s city centre

Modena: Winery Tour and Lambrusco Tasting

If you’re looking for an alternative to the adrenaline of engines, we have the perfect solution: an oasis of winemaking excellence and conviviality in the Emilian countryside. May is the ideal time to retreat into the greenery and explore the culture of fine drinking.

• Behind the scenes: Step into the heart of the winery and discover the meticulous Lambrusco production process, from harvest to sparkling methods.
• The highlight: A tasting of Lambrusco DOC/DOP labels (Sorbara, Grasparossa, Metodo Classico), paired with local cured meats, cheeses and the unmissable tigelle.

Book your wine experience in Modena.

Picnic Among the Vineyards in Monferrato

For nature lovers, Monferrato (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is an unmissable destination. In May, the rolling hills of Piedmont glow in vibrant green, creating the perfect photographic setting.

• The winery: Visit a historic cellar in Asti and learn the secrets of traditional Barbera and Moscato winemaking.
• The picnic: Enjoy an open-air lunch among the vines with local specialties such as Piedmontese cheeses and artisanal cured meats.

Why choose it: It’s the perfect option for those seeking authenticity and total relaxation during the May Day long weekend.

Book your guided winery visit with a picnic in Monferrato./

Florence: Uffizi Gallery Without the Wait

Want to make the most of your time during the May Day weekend? Despite the holidays, the Uffizi Gallery is typically open and remains an essential stop.

• Exclusivity: Our early morning semi-private tour guarantees privileged access, allowing you to enjoy the artworks with fewer crowds.
• Masterpieces: Our expert guides will reveal the secrets of Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Michelangelo’s Doni Tondo, and works by the genius Leonardo da Vinci.

Discover the early morning semi-private Uffizi Tour

Livorno: Canals, Fortresses, and Hidden Legends

If you’re looking for a destination off the beaten path, Livorno will surprise you. With its Venezia Nuova district and navigable canals, it offers an authentic and unfiltered side of Tuscany.

• Boat tour: Sail between the Fortezza Nuova and Fortezza Vecchia, listening to stories of pirates and cosmopolitan merchants while exploring the Livorno canals (Fossi Livornesi).
• The market: Immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of a historic free port that shaped Mediterranean trade.

Discover our Secret Livorno Walking Tour.

Valdobbiadene: Emotions Among Bubbles and Hills

If your ideal May is a celebration of taste, the hills of Prosecco Superiore DOCG provide the perfect setting for a romantic escape or a toast to spring.

• The view: A guided route through the “Rive” (the steepest vineyards, UNESCO-listed) with breathtaking scenery.
• The taste: Learn to distinguish the nuances of Prosecco—from Brut to Dry—paired with the flavors of the Treviso area.

Experience the magic of Valdobbiadene’s sparkling wines.

Conclusion

May in Italy is an invitation to experience the country with unmatched freshness. Whether you choose the lakes of Lombardy, the hills of Piedmont, or the Renaissance wonders of Florence, our experiences are designed to offer an authentic touch far from mass tourism.

Don’t let your May Day weekend be just another day. Book your exclusive experience with Hidden Experiences now and create unforgettable memories. The true Italy is waiting for you!