Since last summer, the term “overtourism” has been increasingly discussed—a term often overused to describe the excessive influx of tourists in iconic cities like Venice, Florence, and Rome. This phenomenon is putting a strain on the balance between tourism flows and residents’ quality of life, as well as compromising visitors’ experience. With over 1,500 Cesarine hosts across more than 500 towns and cities—many located in lesser-known areas—Cesarine promotes an experiential tourism model that enhances lesser-known and more authentic destinations, serving as a real alternative to overtourism. Through a unique selection of culinary experiences, the platform allows travelers to create itineraries off the beaten path, immerse themselves in local gastronomic traditions, and enjoy convivial and authentic moments far from overcrowded tourist hotspots.
Suggested Itineraries and Experiences
- Traditional Cooking Classes: Learn how to prepare regional dishes directly in the homes of Cesarine hosts, discovering recipes passed down through generations. Examples include cooking classes in Baveno on the Piedmontese side of Lake Maggiore, Riccò del Golfo in the province of La Spezia, and Fasano near Brindisi.
- Food and Wine Tours: Explore local markets and artisanal shops with local experts, tasting typical products and regional wines in locations such as Langhirano near Parma, Barberino Tavernelle near Florence, and Spoleto in the province of Perugia.
- Family Lunches and Dinners: Enjoy seasonal menus prepared with fresh, local ingredients in unique and convivial settings, in charming towns like Varignana on the hills of Bologna, Buti in the province of Pisa, and Marsala in the province of Trapani.
The interactive map on the Cesarine website introduces a new way of exploring, enabling users to visualize all Cesarine experiences available in a given area and discover it like true locals. This new approach to travel allows visitors to craft customized itineraries by linking various Cesarine hosts and experiences, crossing Italy while continuously uncovering hidden gems and lesser-known villages. This model helps distribute tourism more evenly, preventing congestion in overvisited cities while ensuring a more immersive and sustainable travel experience.
By embracing the principles of the sharing economy, Cesarine experiences also support local communities, particularly in areas less frequented by tourists. Thanks to cesarine.com, travelers can book exclusive experiences with local home cooks who open their doors to offer traditional regional meals, guide guests through markets and local producers, and teach traditional recipes in private, in-home cooking classes. These experiences enrich the journey with authentic flavors and help disperse tourism to less crowded regions, directly benefiting the local economy.
Participating in Cesarine.com experiences means living unforgettable moments and actively contributing to a more sustainable form of tourism. Encouraging the discovery of lesser-known destinations helps preserve Italy’s cultural and environmental heritage, prevent overcrowding in already overburdened cities, and support local communities.
