Italy is on the bucket list of many travel enthusiasts, thanks to its mouth-watering food and wine, gorgeous countryside, and ancient architecture. So if you dream of visiting this Mediterranean country, why not combine it with a yoga retreat?
Italian retreats balance daily yoga and mindfulness with culinary and cultural experiences, creating the ultimate wellness holiday. So, if you dream of finding your zen in the Mediterranean, read on to discover the five best yoga retreats in Italy for 2023.
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Why you should go on a Yoga Retreat in Italy
All the best yoga retreats in Italy feature yoga and meditation classes amidst nature or overlooking beautiful views of the countryside or ocean.
You’ll also taste many culinary delights, including local favorites, and explore peaceful, authentic towns and villages in your free time.
Still, because each Italian region offers its own unique charm and character, the activities on offer will depend on the local area.
The Best Italy Yoga Retreats
Here’s a quick overview of the best yoga retreats in Italy:
- Best Luxury Yoga Retreat – Yoga and Pranayama Retreat in Tuscany
- Best Budget Yoga Retreat – Farm Reiki and Yoga Retreat in Abruzzo National Park
- Best Active Yoga Retreat – 7-Day Hiking and Yoga Retreat in Tuscany
- Best Adventure Yoga Retreat – Stand-Up Paddle and Yoga Holiday with Kitesurfing in Sicily
- Best Yoga Retreat for Foodies – Italian Cooking and Yoga Holiday in Puglia
Read on for more details on each…
Best Luxury Yoga Retreat – Yoga and Pranayama Retreat in Tuscany
If enjoying relaxing yoga and spa treatments in a gorgeous villa surrounded by the Tuscan countryside sounds as good to you as to us, you’ll love this retreat in Casciana Terme.
Highlights of this luxury yoga retreat include:
- Stay in a unique setting – A village famed for its therapeutic thermal springs
- Enjoy the ultimate pampering and relaxation experience
- Daily yoga, pranayama, and meditation
- Daily brunch with local and seasonal products
The retreat takes place at the 17th-century Allegroitalia Terme Villa Borri in the peaceful spa village of Casciana Terme. Here, you’ll stay in a private room with a kitchenette and views of the Tuscan hills.
The program offers a complete holistic experience, including pranayama, mindfulness meditation, Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, and Yin Yoga. Of course, you’ll also have plenty of time to soak in the healing hot springs and saltwater pools.
More Details Here
Best Budget Yoga Retreat – Farm Reiki and Yoga Retreat in Abruzzo National Park
For an affordable week of high-quality yoga, nature, and organic cuisine, head to Yoga Farm Italy in Pescosolido.
This retreat includes:
- Daily morning yoga sessions (Hatha, Vinyasa, or Yin) and optional afternoon yoga classes
- Authentic and tranquil organic farm setting
- Simple Italian breakfast included each day
- One Reiki treatment
Set at the foot of the mountains in Abruzzo National Park, the location is incredibly peaceful and ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
To help you save money, the recently restored farm has a shared dorm, or you can camp. If you prefer your own space and a bit more comfort you can upgrade to a private room.
Aside from daily yoga, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the surrounding nature, visit the nearby town, or spend time with the animals at the farm. Then, you’ll enjoy an authentic, home-cooked Italian dinner with the group each night.
More Info Here
Best Active Yoga Retreat – Hiking, Fitness and Yoga Retreat in Tuscany
For those who prefer an active yoga getaway rather than a relaxing retreat, you’ll surely love this hiking and yoga retreat by Tuscan Fitness.
This Italy retreat includes:
- Daily morning yoga and optional afternoon class
- Daily fitness sessions, such as HIIT, Barrè, and Pilates.
- Guided hikes
- Wine tasting excursion
A typical day starts with morning yoga followed by breakfast overlooking the valley. In the afternoons, take a guided hike across the beautiful Tuscan countryside or participate in activities like olive oil tasting or a trip to the local town.
Three daily meals are included in the package, consisting of fresh produce from local farms and various Tuscan flavors.
More Details Here
Best Adventure Yoga Retreat – Stand-Up Paddle, Kitesurfing and Yoga Holiday in Sicily
Floripa Yoga & Kitesurf House offers your much-needed dose of yoga, sun, sea, and sand, with as many water activities as you can handle.
Highlights of this beach yoga retreat include:
- Morning and evening yoga sessions
- Optional workshops to perfect your alignment or develop your arm balances, inversions, or backbends.
- Daily use of the Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP)
- One kite-surfing beginner class
Set on the golden beach of Santa Maria del Focallo, when it’s time to relax, you can top up your tan or swim in the crystal clear waters of the blue flag beach. You can also take a bicycle around the quiet village or to the nearby bustling beach town of Pozzallo.
A daily hearty breakfast buffet is included, along with a welcome dinner on the first night.
More Info Here
Best Yoga Retreat for Foodies – Italian Cooking and Yoga Holiday in Puglia
Let’s be honest; the incredible cuisine is one of the top reasons to visit Italy. This retreat by Vedaguru center combines yoga with Italian cooking, so you’ll not only get to taste all the delicious food but learn how to create it too.
This retreat features:
- Relaxing Hatha yoga sessions each morning
- 2 Italian cooking classes
- Various culinary, cultural, and nature tours
- Homemade breakfast and dinner included
The yoga and cooking holiday is set in the gorgeous region of Puglia in southeast Italy. Here you will stay at a country house just a few kilometers from the sea. You’ll learn how to cook delicious Italian cuisine from a local chef and will even receive a certificate upon completion. Recipes include different types of fresh pasta, pizza, and focaccia.
More Details Here
Tips for Planning your Yoga Retreat in Italy
As one of the most famous European destinations, there are frequent flights to Italy from all over the world. However, you may have to fly into one of the biggest international airports, like Rome or Milan, before taking a domestic flight to the region of your retreat. So why not combine your yoga holiday with spending a few days in the eternal city of Rome!
Some of the best yoga retreats in Italy are in the beautiful region of Tuscany, the main international airports are Florence and Pisa. Many retreats are in secluded locations, so a bus or taxi journey will likely be required. Check with your retreat organizer if they offer transfers from the nearest airport.
Generally, the best time for Italy yoga retreats is early summer (May to June) or late summer/early autumn (September to October). In many parts of the country, July and August can be too hot for many.
However, as the climate differs significantly between north and south, check the weather in the region you’re visiting. Have a look at this yoga retreat packing list if you’re unsure what to bring with you.
Make sure you have travel insurance that covers you for all the activities you plan on doing and for any covid related cancellations or emergencies. We recommend World Nomads
Finally, read the reviews on BookYogaRetreats before choosing your yoga holiday in Italy. Reviews are a great way to learn what to expect and avoid disappointment or confusion.
Still haven’t found the perfect yoga retreat? Check out our pick of the best yoga retreats in Europe!
