Spring in Italy is magical, and Easter is when it truly shines. The flowers are in bloom, the sun begins to warm the cobblestones, and the cities come alive with centuries-old traditions, local flavors, and festive energy. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, Milan, Turin, and Florence are incredible cities to explore during Pasqua (Easter Sunday) and Pasquetta (Easter Monday).
If you’re planning your trip during this special time, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your guide to the best experiences in each city with a stress-free way to see it all: the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus, running even on Easter holidays!
Milan: fashion, faith, and Easter Fun
Easter in Milan is a beautiful blend of spirituality and style.
What to do on Easter Sunday
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Duomo di Milano. On Easter morning, the square fills with locals attending mass—whether you’re religious or not, witnessing this tradition inside or outside the cathedral is moving. Afterwards, take a slow walk through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, perhaps stopping for a celebratory espresso and chocolate egg in one of its elegant cafés.
Museums like the Pinacoteca di Brera or Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper may be closed, but don’t worry—you can still admire Milan’s grandeur from the open top of the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus. It’s the perfect way to explore the city without the holiday crowds. And yes, it’s running even on Easter and Pasquetta!
What to do on Easter Monday
Pasquetta is made for picnics and fresh air. Locals flock to the Parco Sempione, right behind Sforza Castle, for a relaxed afternoon with friends and food. Pick up a slice of colomba, Italy’s traditional Easter cake, and join them!
Feeling curious? Hop back on the sightseeing bus and ride toward the Navigli area. The canals are lovely in spring, and on Pasquetta you’ll find small pop-up markets and bars open for the day. It’s a perfect place for an early evening aperitivo.
Turin: chocolate, charm, and cultural Easter
Turin is famous for its chocolate—and Easter here is a real treat (literally).
What to do on Easter Sunday
Begin at the Mole Antonelliana and the National Cinema Museum (check opening hours in advance). Then, take a moment in Piazza Castello, where Easter services fill the air with music and the scent of blooming cherry trees. If you’re lucky, you might catch an Easter concert or small choir performance near Gran Madre di Dio.
And of course, no Easter in Turin is complete without cioccolato! The city is the birthplace of gianduiotto, and every pastry shop will be showing off their finest chocolate eggs. Treat yourself.
Want to see it all without rushing? Board the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which lets you cruise past the Royal Palace, Villa della Regina, and Parco del Valentino, while listening to fascinating audio commentary. Yes, it runs throughout the holidays, too!
What to do on Easter Monday
Pasquetta in Turin is a relaxed, family-style affair. Locals love heading up the hills to Superga, you can hike or take the historic cogwheel train. At the top, you’ll get breathtaking views over the city and Alps.
Prefer to stay downtown? Grab some take-away and picnic along the Po River. Then hop back on the bus for a golden-hour ride—Turin’s architecture glows in the evening light.
Florence: Art, Tradition, and Open-Air Celebrations
Florence’s Easter traditions are among the most unique in Italy.
What to do on Easter Sunday
The big event? The Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart) in front of the Duomo. This centuries-old tradition involves a massive decorated cart, fireworks, and an impressively dressed parade. It’s theatrical, joyful, and wonderfully Florentine.
After the show, explore Florence the easy way: aboard the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus, which takes you from the historic center up to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views, and even out to Fiesole, a hidden gem with Roman ruins and peaceful countryside. The best part? The service runs even during Easter, no stress, just scenic rides and beautiful stops.
What to do on Easter Monday
Easter Monday is for the outdoors. Locals head to the Boboli Gardens, Cascine Park, or the riverside paths near San Niccolò for laid-back fun and spring sunshine. Pack a picnic, or grab a panino and a bottle of Tuscan wine.
And for something a bit different, check if local wine cellars or artisanal shops in Oltrarno are open, many organize small tours and tastings for the long weekend.
Why Choose the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour?
City Sightseeing offers a flexible and fun way to explore, especially on holidays when public transport may be limited or attractions have shorter hours. With multilingual audio guides, panoramic views, and frequent stops near major sights, it’s an ideal way to relax while still discovering every corner of the city.
The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is active on both Easter Sunday and Pasquetta in Milan, Turin, and Florence—so no matter your plans, you’ve always got a comfortable, scenic ride waiting.
Final Tips for Your Easter Getaway
- Check opening times in advance, especially for museums or churches you’d like to enter.
- Try local Easter dishes, like agnello al forno (roast lamb), torta pasqualina (Easter pie), and of course, colomba.
- Bring a picnic blanket—Pasquetta is made for spontaneous lunches in the park!
- Don’t forget your camera: springtime in Italy is endlessly photogenic.
Wherever you go, Easter in Italy is more than a holiday, it’s a celebration of beauty, tradition, and time well spent. And with the freedom to hop on and off as you please, you’ll be making memories at every stop.
Buona Pasqua and Happy Travels!
