A villa holiday in Italy is not just for the summer. Although many tend to visit in July and August when outdoor pools and beaches beckon, others are discovering the charm of renting villas in the quieter months.
Between February and April, ‘off-season’ stays are perfect for those looking to discover Italian towns, cities, the countryside or events without the usual crowds or summer heat. Many of our villas are available to rent all year and are beautifully equipped for a relaxing stay, from rustic or stylish cosy cottages to impressive manor houses with private spas, gyms, wine cellars and games rooms, there is something to suit every group. Furthermore, rental prices are often lower, making it an attractive time to visit.
In the first few months of the year, apart from its fantastic ski resorts in the north, the rest of Italy offers authentic local experiences and a host of cultural events for visitors. From the vibrant carnivals of Venice and Viareggio to romantic retreats for couples or Easter traditions in Rome and across the country, off-season travel in Italy is a must for those in the know.
To inspire your next trip, we’ve picked five of our favourite villas that are perfect for exploring Italy during this magical time.
February: Carnival Celebrations
Experience the Spectacle
Italy comes alive with the dazzling festivities of Carnival in February. The iconic Venice Carnival enchants visitors with its elegant masks and theatrical events. Check out the 2025 Venice Carnival programme. On the Tuscan coast, the Viareggio Carnival is known for its fabulous elaborate floats and artistic parades. Visit the official website for the 2025 Viareggio Carnival.
Where to Stay
1. Villa Barchessa Panigai
Carnival festivities in Venice are just an hour’s drive or a short train ride from nearby Conegliano when you stay at this impressive villa. Immersed in the UNESCO-protected Prosecco hills, Villa Barchessa Panigai, is a spacious and rather special retreat for up to 14 guests.
Welcoming and eclectic in style, the spacious interiors are a marvellous mix of antique furnishings, oil paintings and contemporary additions for everyone to enjoy. Highlights include a spa with a hot tub, Turkish bath, sauna and gym, a billiard table and a library tower with a study and panoramic terrace. The surrounding verdant countryside and vineyards add to its relaxing ambience.
For those who love to stay in Italy for the food and wine, this is the place to savour local Prosecco, paired perfectly with Venetian classics like ‘Risotto al radicchio’ or ‘Sarde in saor’, to complete the experience.
2. Il Giardino di Sibilla
Situated near Vicenza, between Lake Garda and Venice, this superb country house is a fabulous setting for exploring the Veneto region during Carnival. Il Giardino di Sibilla is positioned in a verdant garden with panoramic views of the woods and valley below. With spacious living areas and 8 bedrooms, this impressive villa accommodates up to 16 guests with ease. The interiors are full of character, featuring beamed ceilings, exposed stone and fascinating antique pieces. There is plenty to keep everyone entertained, from its huge games room with a pool table to books, ornaments and collection of retro objets d’art, such as typewriters and radios. Each bedroom is unique in style, with one featuring a piano. The highlight for many is the villa’s own cantina in a barrel-vaulted cellar, perfect for sampling local wine and grappa.
3. Villa Marraccini
Situated in the rolling hills above Lucca in Tuscany, Villa Marraccini is just a 30-minute drive from the colourful Viareggio Carnival. This historic villa, once a chestnut drying house in the 19th century, now offers highly comfortable and stylish accommodation for up to 8 guests. The villa features decor worthy of an interiors magazine, with tasteful colours and quality furnishings in every room. Guests can relax with a selection of board games in the comfortable living spaces or enjoy the stunning hillside setting with views over Lucca. The charming walled city of Lucca, known for its artistic treasures and excellent restaurants, is nearby and perfect for a day of exploring its boutiques and elegant piazzas or cycling along its ancient city walls.
Valentine’s day & Romantic retreats
Celebrate Love in Style
February is also the perfect time to whisk your loved one away to a romantic retreat. We have many smaller villas available all year that are ideal for couples. One of our favourites has to be this Saracen Tower:
Where to Stay
4. Torre Grimaldi
Perched on the Ligurian coast, the enchanting Torre Grimaldi is a one-of-a-kind escape for couples. Overlooking the sea from an elevated position near Menton and the French Riviera, this Saracen Tower exudes romance and charm. Lovingly restored by its current owners, the tower is situated on the grounds of the Castello Voronoff but remains completely private. Inside, you’ll find antiques, a spiral staircase, and intimate living spaces that reflect its historic character. Admire panoramic views from its sunkissed terraces, furnished for drinks and dining. Guests also have access to a tennis court, making it the perfect place for active couples. Food lovers will delight in Ligurian specialities in local restaurants, such as ‘Focaccia di Recco’ and ‘Pansotti’ with walnut sauce, best enjoyed with a glass of Vermentino or Rossese di Dolceacqua, both celebrated regional wines.
March and April: Easter in Italy
Embrace Tradition and Culture
Spring in Italy is synonymous with Easter celebrations. From religious ceremonies in Rome to art exhibitions and gastronomic delights, the season offers a perfect blend of culture and festivity.
5. Villa Sylva
Situated just 500 metres from Pantanella Station, Villa Sylva is a calm and verdant oasis with easy access to the centre of Rome. Once home to the famous actress Sylva Koscina, the villa retains its glamorous aura, with Murano chandeliers, boiserie ceilings and antiques. Sleeping up to 8 guests, this villa features an array of fascinating details, from vintage art to a library of books and chess sets. The bathrooms, finished with Tuscan Pietra Dorata and Vietri tiles, add to the villa’s appeal. Nestled by Castelli Romani, a vast park crowned by the peaks of the Alban Hills, from the villa you can easily explore the area known for its archaeological remains and scenic nature trails.
During Easter, guests can also enjoy traditional Roman delicacies such as ‘Carciofi alla Romana’ and ‘Abbacchio’, as well as the festive ‘Colomba’, a sweet dove-shaped cake that is a hallmark of Italian Easter celebrations.
More Off-Season Villa Inspiration
Staying in a villa off-season allows you to discover Italy at a slower pace, experiencing its distinctive traditions and natural beauty without the crowds or high temperatures. Whether you are enjoying festivals, exploring the sights or simply relaxing in a picturesque villa, an off-season break can be a real treat.
These five villas represent just a glimpse of what’s possible, each offering a unique experience.
Please browse the Emma Villas website for more inspiration and contact us so that we can help you plan your perfect off-season holiday in Italy.
