Authentic breakfast in the best farmhouses

Info and Description

Agritourism with bed and breakfast is one of the hospitality options provided for by Italian agritourism legislation (Law No. 96 of February 20, 2006): the establishment offers accommodation in rooms or residential units and, in addition to overnight accommodation, serves breakfast, but does not include lunch or dinner. It is one of the four accommodation options recognized by ISTAT in the official survey of agritourism businesses , along with bed only, half board, and full board.

(Sources: Law 96/2006, ISTAT )

In short

Farmhouses offering bed and breakfast in Italy are characterised by:

• a more streamlined accommodation option than half-board and full-board
• Breakfast often prepared with farm or local products (honey, jams, cheeses, homemade desserts)
• maximum freedom for the guest to organize lunches and dinners outside the structure
• particularly high diffusion in the North-West regions

Costs and seasonality:

• Double room with breakfast included: on average between €70 and €130 per night
• Peak season: July and August, with increasing demand also in September

Explanation

A format that is especially popular in the North-West

According to the latest ISTAT survey, which breaks down accommodations by type of service (data from 2021), 45.7% of agritourism businesses offering accommodations offer breakfast as a supplement to overnight stays , a higher percentage than accommodations only (44.7%) and full board (22.1%; a single establishment can offer multiple options simultaneously). Regionally, businesses in the Northwest offer this option most frequently, with 64.8% of accommodations in the area offering this service. The average price of a double room with breakfast currently ranges between €70 and €130 per night, with fluctuations of 20-30% between low and high season.

(Sources: ISTAT )

Market data and trends (Agriturismo.net)

Analyzing the offer of farmhouses with breakfast in Italy:

• 31% of the total facilities offer breakfast service
• 56.3% of farmhouses also offer catering services
• 40.6% of the facilities organize food and wine experiences

(Sources: elaborations on Agriturismo.net data )

Practical part

How to choose a farmhouse with breakfast

1. Check what breakfast includes: ask if it is a buffet, served at the table or served in your room, and if it includes company products.
2. Check the times: breakfast times on a farm can be more flexible or more rigid than in a hotel, check before booking.
3. Ask if there are options for specific dietary needs: intolerances, allergies or vegetarian/vegan choices must be reported in advance.
4. Consider the proximity to bars, restaurants and shops: with only breakfast included, you will have to organize lunches and dinners elsewhere
5. Consider the seasonality of the price: booking in low season can save up to 20-30% on the same room
6. Check the services available in the facility: swimming pool, parking, Wi-Fi are not always included in the B&B formula alone.
7. Ask the owner: Have any questions? Before booking, contact the property directly with your request, no obligation, using the "Ask the owner" button on the page.

FAQ

What is a bed and breakfast?

It is an agritourism facility that offers accommodation in rooms or apartments and breakfast, but does not include lunch or dinner. It is one of the four accommodation options recognized by ISTAT in its survey of agritourism businesses.

(Sources: ISTAT )

How much does a night on a farm with breakfast included cost?

The average price for a double room with breakfast is between €70 and €130 per night, depending on the region and season. The cheapest regions start at around €70, while the most popular destinations can reach €120-130.

When is the best time to book?

The peak season is from July to August, with Ferragosto among the most popular periods; bookings remain strong even in September. In the low season, prices can drop by 20-30%.

(Sources: Agriturist-Confagricoltura )

What does breakfast at a farmhouse typically include?

It varies from property to property: many agriturismos offer breakfasts featuring their own or local products, such as jams, honey, cheeses, cured meats, and homemade desserts. It's advisable to check with the property for details before booking.

What's the difference between breakfast, half board, and full board?

Guests who choose breakfast only are free to arrange lunches and dinners outside the property. Half-board includes one meal per day (usually dinner), while full-board includes both main meals.

In which regions is the bed and breakfast option most popular?

According to ISTAT, this formula is particularly widespread in the Northwestern regions, where it concerns 64.8% of the agritourism businesses with accommodation in the area.

(Sources: ISTAT )

How many Italian farmhouses offer accommodation?

In 2024, there were just over 21,440 agritourism businesses offering accommodation, equal to 81.4% of the national total of agritourism facilities.

(Sources: ISTAT )

Is it possible to request half board even if the property only offers B&B?

It depends on the property: some agriturismos offer the option of adding dinner upon request, even if the basic package is breakfast only. Check directly with the owner.

Sources

Law 20 February 2006 n. 96

Agritourism Businesses in Italy - Year 2024 - ISTAT

Agritourism Businesses in Italy - Year 2021 - ISTAT

Choosing a farmhouse stay means immersing yourself in nature and enjoying an authentic and relaxing experience. Farmhouses in Italy offering breakfast offer a unique awakening, thanks to authentic products , often grown and prepared on-site. Every morning you can enjoy fresh, traditional flavors , perfect for starting your day with energy.

Homemade jams, artisanal honey, and fresh baked goods like cakes, biscuits, and croissants are just some of the delights you'll find every morning. Many agriturismos also offer a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, perfect for those who prefer a savory and hearty breakfast.

In addition to the typical flavors of Italian tradition, some agriturismos also offer an international breakfast, with a mix of sweet and savory dishes, such as eggs, cereals, toast, and fresh fruit, to please every palate. Furthermore, many establishments are equipped to accommodate special dietary needs, such as gluten or lactose intolerances , thus ensuring an inclusive and safe dining experience for everyone.

Some farmhouses offer outdoor seating or panoramic terraces where you can enjoy breakfast with a breathtaking view of the hills, vineyards, or olive groves. This time of day is an opportunity to enjoy the calm and serenity of the surrounding landscape, planning the day's activities with a relaxing and enjoyable start.

Breakfast often becomes a moment of connection between guests and the agriturismo owners, who are happy to share the culinary secrets and traditions of their land. On agriturismos, breakfast is enjoyed at a different pace, slower and more relaxed than in traditional hotels. It's a moment of peace and tranquility, to be enjoyed slowly, appreciating every flavor and aroma.

Whether you prefer a sweet or savory breakfast, or a combination of local and international flavors, you'll find the perfect agriturismo in Italy for your needs.