In the city or out in the hills, ideal destinations for a long weekend getaway this spring.

Spring is on its way: the days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising the first flowers are starting to bloom on the trees. Nature is waking up, creating the perfect climate to enjoy a few days of rest. From March to the beginning of May, with Easter in between, there’s no shortage of opportunities to escape the daily routine, so why not take advantage of the spring bank holidays?  

If you would like to spend a few days off discovering beautiful Italian holiday destinations, here are some suggestions of where you could go to make the most of the 2024 spring holidays in locations that are ideal for both city lovers and those who want to relax in the hills.

A weekend in Venice

Providing the backdrop for numerous feature films, Venice is one of the best-known Italian cities in the world: a perfect combination of art and romance. 

What are the best-known attractions in Venice? A must-see is the Canal Grande: the wide canal traverses the historic centre of the city, dividing it in two and offering spectacular views that are guaranteed to become the focus of your holiday snaps. 

Going into the heart of Venice you will find St Mark’s Square, which has always been considered the city’s living room. In addition to the square itself, you can admire St. Peter’s Basilica, the Bell Tower, the Clock Tower and the Florian Cafe, as well as the famous lion statues towering above you.  

Next to the Basilica stands the Doge’s Palace, the seat of the Serenissima Republic and the greatest example of Venetian Gothic architecture with its famous exterior façade. Then there’s the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, a favourite destination for couples from all over the world.  

Not to mention the exhibitions you could visit in the city: until 2nd June, for instance, the Museo del Novecento (Museum of the Twentieth Century) is hosting Banksy. Painting Walls, which is dedicated to the very popular and still unknown street artist. 

Until 7th April, at the Gallerie dell'Accademia in Venice, you can admire Madonna in Adoration of the Child, one of Giovanni Bellini’s most famous paintings. Then perhaps enjoy a visit to the famous Peggy Guggenheim Collection, home to several artworks and prestigious temporary exhibitions, such as the current Marcel Duchamp and the Lure of the Copy.

To enjoy the best of the city’s attractions, we recommend staying in one of its many hotels. Maison Venezia | UNA Esperienze, located in the historical Cannaregio district will wow you with its Venetian-style architecture and furnishings: its 28 rooms are decorated with Murano glass chandeliers, and is housed in a finely restored period palace.  

H2 – Relax in the hills of Siena

If you love to immerse yourself in nature, to admire the rolling green hills around you while sipping a glass of excellent wine, the right destination for your spring break is Montepulciano, the Tuscan town famous for its wine and food tradition. 

The Church of San Biagio, the Tower of Pulcinella and the Church of Sant’Agostino are just some of the attractions that you can find in this mediaeval village that is rich in history and culture, and home to numerous wineries specialising in the production of the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. 

If you want to get a taste of some interesting local traditions, we recommend the 9th Easter Festival, held from 30th March to 14th April: an unmissable event for music lovers featuring a rich programme of concerts.

Enjoy a long walk overlooking the Tuscan cypress trees and a take few photographs before relaxing in a historic 18th century villa. In the hamlet of Acquaviva, you will find the Relais Villa Grazianella | UNA Esperienze: an elegant hotel surrounded by magnificent olive trees, with an indoor restaurant and a swimming pool overlooking the Sienese hills.

Guests can also visit the villa’s historic wine cellar, take part in exclusive tastings, learn about the local wine tradition and sample the best local brands.  

In Matera, between history and culture

Where to go on a spring holiday in Italy? Matera is a fascinating destination with unique cultural heritage. 

Although the city is most famous for being a “Christmas” setting and hosts an annual nativity scene that comes to life, Matera is actually a suitable destination for any time of year.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Sassi di Matera are the main attraction in this town: these two districts are known as Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano, where the buildings and architecture are carved into the rock. Defined as a cultural landscape, the Sassi di Matera have also provided the setting for several blockbuster films, such as Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ. 

Piazza Vittorio Veneto is the city’s main square and the view from here allows you to admire the surrounding landscape. From the square, you can explore the most picturesque corners of Matera such as the Ipogeo MateraSum, the 19a Buca restaurant and the Palombaro Lungo.

Among the most famous buildings are the Cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria De Idris that is built into the rock, the National Museum of Modern and Medieval Art and the National Archaeological Museum of Matera. 

Finally, don’t forget to visit the Murgia Materana Regional Park with its ancient artefacts and dozens of churches built into the rock: the best known spot is the Murgia Timone viewpoint, which can also be reached by car.

If you are wondering where to stay in Matera to enjoy its attractions, the answer is UNAHOTELS MH Matera. Just five minutes from the Sassi and the historic centre, the accommodation is surrounded by a five-hectare park with large open spaces, and offers several services that will make your stay even more special.

Over 120 tastefully furnished rooms, two swimming pools and a spa are just some of the amenities you’ll find here. 

Spring holidays in 2024: the ideal opportunity to take a few days off and visit some of the most beautiful locations in Italy.