Italy is a country in which there is always something going on, from concerts in stunning locations to centuries-old festivals, and major art exhibitions in world-famous museums. Wherever your trip takes you and whatever time of year you choose to travel, you will always have the opportunity to experience something unique and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for ideas as to what to do in Italy in 2023, look no further!
Verona Opera Festival
The annual Verona Opera Festival is staged in Verona’s spectacular first-century Roman amphitheater every summer, from mid-June until early September. There could not be a more atmospheric location to enjoy performances of operas created by some of Italy’s most famous composers. The program changes every year, but always includes favorites such as La Traviata, Carmen, and Aida. The best views are to be had from the exclusive premium seats in the platinum stalls.
Umbria Jazz
For aficionados of an entirely different type of music, the city of Perugia in Umbria fills up with jazz lovers for 10 days every July and 2023 will mark its 50th anniversary. Over the years it has played host to such greats as Dizzie Gillespie and Miles Davis. Performances are held throughout this stunning preserved mediaeval city, including in its piazzas and gardens.
Palio in Siena
The palio horserace around Siena’s scallop-shaped campo is an event like no other. Run twice a summer, on July 2 and August 16, the palio dates back to the 6th century. The city’s 17 districts or contrade, each named after an animal or object, compete with a horse decked out in their own emblems and colors. The center of the square is packed with spectators with no choice but to wait all day, but the best views can be had from the windows and balconies of the perfectly preserved palaces that line the square.
Chianti Classico Wine Expo
The annual Chianti Classico Wine Expo takes place in Greve, Tuscany, over three days in September. Entry to the event, set up around the picturesque small town, involves buying a wine glass and a ticket that allows you to taste the local wines on offer. You will also have the chance to buy wine to be shipped home.
Venice Biennale
Alternating with the art show staged in even years, 2023 sees the Biennale Architettura held in Italy’s most unique city. Founded in 1895, the Venice Biennale is one of the world of art and culture’s most hotly anticipated events. While the show itself can be visited in the Biennale venue to the east of the city, exclusive events pop up around the city during key weekends in the program.
Ryder Cup Golf
The biggest sporting event in Italy in 2023 is undoubtedly golf’s Ryder Cup. Held every other year in either Europe or the US, this is the first time golf’s most prestigious team event has been staged in Italy. The chosen venue is the exclusive Marco Simone Golf & Country Club just outside Rome, where the two teams will compete from September 29 to October 1. With the US thrashing Europe at Whistling Straits, WI, in 2021, will the likes of Jon Rahm and Rory McIlroy manage to wrestle the cup back? Why not combine a visit to the Eternal City with a couple of days of golf to find out for yourself.
ATP Tour Finals Tennis
The city of Turin plays host to one of the key events in the tennis calendar—the ATP Finals. From November 12 to 19 2023, the north-western Italian city will stage the season-ending tournament that pits the eight most successful players that year against each other to find the ultimate champion. If any of Italy’s top male players qualify, the atmosphere is sure to be electric! Turin is a gem of a city with plenty to see, do and eat, so why not build a day at the tennis into your schedule? You could even take a tour of some of Piedmont’s most exclusive wineries in the surrounding region or sample local white truffle in a top restaurant.