July 28, 2026, 8:33 am | Read time: 3 minutes
You’ve probably heard the term agriturismo before. But do you know what it really means? Simply put, a vacation at an agriturismo involves spending time on a farm. However, for a farm in Italy to be called an agriturismo, it must meet certain requirements. And by the way, not every agriturismo offers accommodations. Find all the details at TRAVELBOOK.
What Is an Agriturismo?
An agriturismo is primarily a farm. Additionally, it hosts guests, either for overnight stays or sometimes just for meals or a visit to the farm. More and more travelers appreciate this traditional form of vacationing in Italy, which connects them to nature and regional cuisine.
The idea of vacationing on a farm is certainly not limited to Italy; many European countries have similar concepts. The key difference: In Italy, the term agriturismo is legally protected. According to the official, state-confirmed definition, an agriturismo is a “working farm with guests.” Detailed information can be found on the official info page “Agriturismo Italia.” It must be an active farm, involved in activities such as raising animals, growing vegetables, or producing products like wine, olive oil, or sausage.
Traditional Tourism in a Rural Setting
If you’re looking for the urban flair found in cities like Milan or Palermo, an agriturismo might not be the right choice, unless you’re planning day trips. These farms are typically located in rural areas and can be found in various Italian regions. Tuscany has a particularly high concentration of agriturismi, but there are also many in Lombardy, Veneto, as well as on Sardinia and Sicily.
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A Significant Part of the Agriturismo Experience: The Food
Most agriturismi also function as inns where visitors can stay overnight. Many of these establishments offer what is known as “ristorazione agrituristica”—farm dining where both guests and external visitors are welcome for lunch or dinner. Others cater exclusively to their overnight guests. Accessibility largely depends on the individual establishment.
One thing is certain: the cuisine alone is often worth a visit. Instead of an extensive à la carte menu, many agriturismi offer a set multi-course menu based on the season and the farm’s own products. Dishes are prepared with what the fields, gardens, and barns currently provide—from freshly harvested vegetables to meat from their own livestock. The food and drinks are usually homemade and reflect the culinary traditions of the region. Tastings of farm-produced wine, olive oil, cheese, or other regional specialties are often available.
Prices for Agriturismo Vacations
A stay at an agriturismo offers Italy enthusiasts an authentic all-inclusive package of nature experiences, hospitality, and regional cuisine—and it’s often surprisingly affordable. Guests can arrange which services are included in the price directly with the operator, such as through the portal “Agriturismi.it.” In the off-season, overnight stays are often available from about 30 to 50 euros per person per night.