A curated guide for serene souls and spiritual seekers
Let’s start with something that’s both bold and true: the location should not be the reason you create a retreat. For example, you shouldn’t plan a retreat in Tuscany just because you’ve always dreamed of going there.
Instead, your retreat should begin with a clear theme and a well-defined audience. Once you know the purpose and who you're serving, the location becomes a natural extension — a place that resonates deeply with your intentions and supports the transformation you're offering.
In this article:
Best yoga retreat locations for your next event in Italy
Below, you’ll find a curated selection of Italian regions that, thanks to their geography, culture, and unique energy, naturally align with different retreat goals. Whether you're hosting a spiritual immersion, a wellness getaway, or a creative journey, there’s a part of Italy perfectly suited to your vision.
1. Tuscany – The Timeless Choice
When people think of yoga in Italy, Tuscany is often the first place that comes to mind. And for good reason.
The region’s sun-drenched hills, cypress-lined roads, and terracotta villas offer a peaceful and inspiring backdrop for inner exploration. It's a region where beauty is in the air — perfect for slowing down and tuning in.
Best areas for retreats:
- Chianti (wine country charm)
- Val d’Orcia (UNESCO landscapes)
- Maremma (wild and authentic)
Retreat vibe: Elegant agriturismi, luxury wellness estates, and converted monasteries surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Ideal for: Mid-size groups, luxury retreats, creative workshops, or romantic couples' getaways.
Bonus: Tuscany also offers easy access to Florence, Siena, and countless medieval villages for optional cultural excursions.
2. Puglia – The Mediterranean Escape
If you're looking for a mix of sunshine, sea, and soul, Puglia delivers some of the best yoga retreat locations. This southern region is known for its whitewashed villages, centuries-old olive trees, and crystalline coastline.
Puglia offers a more relaxed, down-to-earth experience with a deep connection to the land and its traditions — perfect for barefoot mornings, open-air yoga, and shared meals under the stars.
Best areas for retreats:
- Salento (beaches and turquoise sea)
- Ostuni (the “White City”)
- Valle d’Itria (trulli villages and olive groves)
Retreat vibe: Traditional masserie (farmhouses), bohemian villas, and seaside properties that blend rustic charm with comfort.
Ideal for: Summer retreats, beach lovers, wellness experiences, and slow travel.
Bonus: Puglia is a vegetarian paradise. Local dishes are plant-based, fresh, and deeply satisfying — ideal for mindful eating.
3. Sicily – Island Energy
Sicily is powerful. It's where sea meets fire, and ancient meets modern. With its rugged landscapes, wild beaches, and rich spiritual energy, Sicily is a great choice for retreats that focus on transformation, healing, and creativity.
Best areas for retreats:
- Noto (baroque beauty and calm beaches)
- Mount Etna (volcanic energy and panoramic views)
- Aeolian Islands (raw, magical, remote)
Retreat vibe: Eco-villages, beachside homes, and historic estates — often surrounded by citrus trees or overlooking the sea.
Ideal for: Spiritual awakening, yoga & writing/art retreats, and reconnecting with elemental forces.
Bonus: Sicily’s cultural depth (Greek temples, Arabic gardens, Norman churches) adds an enriching dimension to any experience.
4. Umbria – The Spiritual Heart of Italy
Often referred to as “Italy’s green heart”, Umbria is Tuscany’s quieter, more introspective sibling.
The landscapes here are lush and serene, dotted with medieval towns and ancient churches. The energy feels sacred — and that’s no coincidence. Umbria is home to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of history’s most famous spiritual figures.
Best areas for retreats:
- Assisi
- Todi
- Spoleto
Retreat vibe: Rustic chic farmhouses, spiritual hermitages, and eco-conscious guesthouses with panoramic views.
Ideal for: Silent retreats, meditation, inner work, small groups, and seekers looking for depth.
Bonus: Many retreat venues are close to sacred paths and hiking trails, perfect for contemplative walks or forest bathing.
5. The Dolomites – Mountain Magic
For a completely different type of retreat, head north to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking mountain views, fresh air, and a deep sense of grounding.
It’s the ideal environment for those who love movement and stillness: hike by day, meditate by night.
Best areas for retreats:
- Alta Badia
- Val Gardena
- Cortina d’Ampezzo
Retreat vibe: Stylish alpine lodges, eco-resorts, and minimalist chalets with wellness amenities.
Ideal for: Active retreats, nature immersion, breathwork, hiking + yoga combinations.
Bonus: Expect wellness rituals like sauna, hot springs, and silence — all part of mountain culture.
Bonus Pick: Ligurian Coast – For Yoga with a View
If you're dreaming of yoga at sunrise with sea views, the Ligurian Coast (near Genova) is a hidden gem. Less crowded than the Amalfi Coast but just as charming, this region combines colorful fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and serene beaches.
Top spots:
- Camogli
- Zoagli
- Sestri Levante (Baia del Silenzio is magical!)
Retreat vibe: Intimate villas or boutique hotels, perfect for small group retreats or weekend escapes.
Ideal for: Peaceful coastal energy, writing & yoga, or mindful hiking.
Final Thoughts
Each of these Italian regions offers something unique — whether it's the peaceful hills of Umbria, the sun-soaked coast of Puglia, or the mystical power of Sicily.
When choosing one of the best yoga retreat locations in Italy, think about the intention behind your event:
- Are you creating space for silence and healing?
- Do you want to move and be in nature?
- Are you building community through food, rituals, and shared experiences?
Whatever your purpose, Italy has a place that matches it — deeply, beautifully, and soulfully.
Ready to roll out your mat in paradise? Italy is waiting — heart open, arms wide.
