Italy
Here at Workaway you will find 500+ hosts and
organisations for volunteer work
in Italy.
Low cost travel without having to pay expensive agency fees.
Pescara, L'Aquila
Bari, Taranto, Foggia, Lecce, Barletta, Brindisi
Potenza
Reggio di Calabria, Catanzaro, Crotone, Vibo Valentia
Naples, Salerno, Caserta, Benevento
Rome, Civitavecchia
Genoa
Ancona
Campobasso
Palermo, Catania, Messina, Siracusa, Ragusa, Marsala
Perugia
Verona, Venice, Treviso
Here you will find 41 last minute opportunities for volunteering in Italy from Hosts that have indicated that they require help immediately.
See the latest updates and news from our hosts in Italy
Checkout new hosts that have signed up and are offering volunteering spots
Checkout new hosts that have signed up and are offering volunteering spots
Connect with Workawayers travelling to Italy and looking for travel buddies
There are 12169 reviews for 500+ Hosts and organizations in Italy.
500+ Hosts in Italy were rated at least 4.9/5!
Registering as a Host
Registering as a host with workaway.info is completely free of charge.
Workaway.info has been set up to promote and encourage exchange and learning. Hosts on Workaway should be interested in cultural exchange and sharing experiences. They should be able to provide a welcoming friendly environment for visitors as well as offering accommodation and food.
Register to be a hostFrom the restaurants in Rome to the majestic Mediterranean Islands - it's no wonder Italy is visited by nearly 75 million people every year. But here's the secret: beyond the tourist hotspots lies a very different Italy waiting to be discovered.
From the olive groves of Tuscan farms to the crystal clear coastline of Sardinia, if you’re ready to unveil a more meaningful connection with this Mediterranean gem - listen up!
Why just be a tourist when you can become a part of Italy's story? Volunteering in Italy isn't just an opportunity to taste La Dolce Vita – it's a chance to make a difference in a way you'll never forget.
You will never be hungry
Volunteering is one of the best ways to
help travel through your tastebuds and there’s no arguing Italy offers
some of the best food in the entire world. Tuscany is a foodie haven in particular, famed for its hearty meats,
world renowned olive oil and delicious bread and cheese.
Northern Italy is known for its rich dishes such as creamy risottos and hearty stews whereas central Italy is home to classics like pasta and rustic soups. Southern Italy is more influenced by Mediterranean flavours as well as the beloved pizza, pasta and fresh seafood. You’re guaranteed to leave with a full heart and a full stomach.
Head Off The Beaten Track
There are parts of Italy seriously struggling with mass tourism. For example the chain of charming little villages
known as Cinque Terre is home to fewer than 4,000 locals. Yet in 2022 as many as 3 million people visited here.
Venice
is also struggling with a dwindling local population as over tourism threatens its World Heritage Status.
Whether you’re travelling Europe on a budget, or simply want to escape the crowds, volunteering in Italy is one of the best ways to head off the beaten track and avoid contributing to this problem. Instead enjoy an authentic, slower paced side of the country. You’ll be rewarded with a deeper connection to the local culture and a unique adventure unlike anyone else's.
Language Learning If you plan on travelling the world as a language teacher, Workaway is one of the best ways to do it. Volunteering in Italy guarantees total immersion which will have you learning Italian in record breaking time, while sharing your language skills with the communities that need it most.
Island life
While Italy’s boot-shaped mainland has no shortage of incredible destinations, there are over 400 islands within
the country’s borders ready to be explored! The islands are famous for their black sand beaches and dramatic
landscapes carved by volcanic activity.
While Capri and Panarea are renowned as holiday destinations for the rich and famous, there are others that offer more rustic charm well worth visiting from Sicily and Sardinia which are the largest in the entire Mediterranean, to the tiny pastel-painted paradise of Procida that’s only two square miles.
Whether you want to ski in The Dolomites, or sip your way around Tuscany’s vineyards, you could say Italy offers all kinds of adventure. The country is divided into 20 administrative regions, including 5 autonomous regions which are Sicily, Sardinia, Aosta Valley, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol.
Autonomous regions simply mean they have slightly more control over local laws and how funds are spent in comparison to the other regions. This is to preserve these region’s unique cultural and linguistic differences.
You can filter your host results by each region to help plan your volunteering adventure in Italy:
Nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Abruzzo offers something for all kinds of travellers. Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking to escape the crowds will appreciate Gran Sasso National Park, where hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching are popular. Additionally, wine lovers can appreciate local Montepulciano wines, and history buffs can explore the region's charming mediaeval towns, such as L'Aquila. Best of all we have over 50 hosts in the region waiting for you!
From mediaeval castles to Mont Blanc and Matterhorn, there is SO much to love about Aosta Valley. The region is a haven for winter sport enthusiasts as well as foodies (you cannot leave without trying the famous fondue!) The majority of hosts here are in search of volunteers passionate about English practice so if you’re a language teacher with an adventurous spirit, this is the region for you.
For those in search of more tranquillity than adrenaline, the "heel" of Italy, Apulia offers the perfect mix of coastline, culture and culinary delights. Enjoy the unique architecture in Alberobello, the Baroque beauty of Lecce, and some of Italy's most delicious pasta dishes. With 162 hosts in this region alone, it could not be easier to live like a local in Apulia.
Basilicata offers a quieter, more authentic Italian experience, perfect for volunteers who crave a crowd free trip to immerse themselves in local culture. History fans can unearth the beauty of Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage city with ancient cave dwellings while nature enthusiasts may prefer the tranquillity of the Pollino National Park. As the largest national park in Italy, it’s also one of the largest in Europe.
If you’re big on sand and sea, Calabria will be your sort of vibe. Better yet, it is the country’s least visited region with many locals nicknaming it “the wild Italy '' due to its untouched landscapes and lack of tourists. You can expect some of Italy's most beautiful beaches along the 800km of coastline.This also means you’ll find it's the perfect destination for volunteers interested in marine conservation or even surfing. Calabria is home to some of the best surf spots in Italy especially in Capo Rizzuto or Tropea!
Campania is steeped in history and home to iconic sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Naples. Dream of sailing or boating with Workaway? This region is where you can find the Amalfi Coast, a paradise with snorkelers and home to the island of Capri. Then indulge in the region’s famous Neapolitan pizza, fresh seafood, and limoncello before adventuring to the cliffside villages like Positano and Ravello.
While any region in Italy will do wonders for your waistline, the Emilia–Romagna region in particular is a foodie paradise. If you crave authentic Italian cuisine, this region is known for Parmigiano-Reggiano, Balsamic vinegar, and delicious pasta. As a tip, homestays in this region are the best way to not only eat authentic Italian food, but learn how to cook it too! To work off those carbs, explore the beautiful art in Bologna and the seaside charm of Rimini. This region offers experiences for all backgrounds - fortunately we have over 200 hosts here to show you around!
Wine fans and outdoor enthusiasts - this is your region! Sample world-class white wines in Friuli. Sail and windsurf on the Adriatic, explore Grotta Gigante (the world's largest tourist cave) as well as the beauty of the Julian Alps. If you’re travelling as a couple, this is a particularly romantic region - popular for its picturesque towns and charming vibes.
Lazio is home to Rome, the capital of Italy and a wealth of iconic landmarks including the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Roman Forum. Or switch the city for a slower pace of life in the charming towns and villages like Tivoli, go hiking in the Apennine Mountains, or explore the Alban Hills and Castelli Romani. Best of all, who needs a tour guide when you have over 260 hosts in the Lazio region alone!
Thanks to Liguria's stunning Mediterranean coastline, it is one of the more touristy regions. It’s where you’ll find the colourful villages of Cinque Terre hugging the coastline as well as some of the best fresh seafood, pesto sauce and authentic Italian dishes. Whether you want an adventurous escape filled with sailing, diving and windsurfing or a relaxing retreat enjoying the quaint fishing villages, Liguria is home to 162 Workaway hosts ready to show you around.
Fashionistas flock to Milan, for its high-end shopping, iconic street style and world famous fashion weeks. However there is so much more to this region! It features stunning lakes, including Lake Como and Lake Maggiore which means picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities like boating and hiking won’t be hard to find. It’s also one of the most popular regions in Italy, but you can skip the crowds (and tourist prices!) by living like a local instead. With over 330 hosts in the region alone, it could not be easier to head off the beaten track and discover what the guidebooks don’t tell you.
From exploring the Frasassi Caves to paragliding in the Sibillini Mountains, you’ll find adventure easily in Marche. Alternatively unwind with the regional wines like Verdicchio or indulge in the delicious local dishes such as porchetta (roast pork) and Vincisgrassi (a type of lasagna.) The region also boasts over 100 hosts offering all kinds of volunteer experiences from hostels to homeschooling.
Molise is the perfect region for those who want to head off the beaten track as it’s one of the least visited regions in Italy. For example, more than 3.6 million tourists visited Tuscany last year, but only 20,000 went to Molise in comparison. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and unhurried pace of life in the historic towns of Isernia, Campobasso and Termoli.
Picturesque Piedmont is textbook “Italian” - rolling hills are dotted with vineyards, pristine lakes are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the capital city of Turin looks straight out of a fairytale. It is also a haven for foodie fans as you’ll find white truffle (and its annual festival) as well as walnuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts and homemade cheeses in abundance. We have over 300 hosts in Piedmont many of who are seeking support in organic farming, permaculture and off grid living.
From demanding hikes to incredible surf spots, it’s no wonder Sardinia is a super popular region of Italy. The majority of visitors flock to the island’s mesmerising beaches, particularly along Costa Smeralda (which happens to also be the most expensive area on the island). But there is so much more to enjoy! Art fans will love the mural town of Orgosolo covered in colourful street art, hikers should head for Gola di Gorropu (often nicknamed Italy’s Grand Canyon) and beach lovers will adore Cala Brandinchi a beach lined with cool pine forest on one side, turquoise waters on the other. Best of all, with over 120 hosts on the island, it couldn’t be easier to experience real Sardinia from a local’s perspective.
As the largest island in the Mediterranean, it's no surprise there is so much to see and do in Sicily. Originally dominated by the Greeks, the island was passed on to the Romans and then the European powers during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. This means nowadays, Sicily is a treasure trove of history, with ancient Greek temples in Agrigento, Roman mosaics in Villa Romana del Casale, and the historic cities of Palermo and Syracuse.
The island is known for landmarks like The Valley of Temples and Mount Etna as well as its heavenly sandy beaches, delicious wine and incredible cuisine like arancini, cannoli, and seafood specialties. You could spend months here and never be bored so it's a good job we have over 400 hosts dotted all over the island!
This mountainous northern region offers thrilling winter sports as well as tranquil hiking trails. It’s also home to the Dolomites - an epic mountain range with 18 peaks that rise above 3,000metres high! You’ll notice a blend of Italian and Austrian influences, evident in the architecture, culture, and cuisine. This also makes it a great region for volunteer language teachers as many locals are also native German speakers. This means there is a demand for German, Italian and English teachers.
Some would say it’s the picturesque vineyards and enchanting cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa, that make Tuscany Italy’s second most popular region. Others would argue it’s the food that entices the crowds. The region is renowned for its simple yet flavorful cuisine, featuring dishes like ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), and bistecca alla fiorentina (a thick T-bone steak).
But there are still some hidden gems to be discovered like the paradise beaches of Elba (the largest island of the Tuscan archipelago), the hot springs of Bagni San Filippo and the World Heritage Site of Val D’Orcia. Did we mention we have over 500 hosts in Tuscany? From house sitting to community projects you’ll have no problem finding your perfect project!
Often nicknamed the "Green Heart of Italy" , Umbria is known for its emerald hills and vineyards as far as the eye can see. If you crave a peaceful escape, this is the region for you. As you may guess agriculture is a massive industry here, with the region renowned for tobacco, vineyards and olive oil. This makes it the perfect place for foodies and farm volunteers alike.
From wine tasting to wakeboarding, you’ll then have no shortage of ways to spend your free time. If you choose to stay with one of our 120+ hosts in Umbria, don’t forget to visit Assisi, with its Basilica of St. Francis, a significant pilgrimage site and Italy’s fourth largest lake, Trasimeno as well as the peaceful villages of Spello and Trevi.
Saving the busiest region until last, Veneto stretches from the beautiful beaches of the Adriatic Sea to the snow-capped summits of the Dolomites. It is home to Venice, the "City of Canals" which is the region’s capital and one of the most visited destinations in the entire country. You can’t visit Veneto without a trip to Italy’s largest lake - Lake Garda - with charming towns such as Lazise, Torri del Benaco, and Malcesine dotted around its shores. If you’re feeling romantic, head to Verona - where the story of Romeo and Juliet takes place. As a bonus, it’s also the birthplace of prosecco and tiramisu - do you need any more reasons to visit!?
Now you’re clued up on Italy’s regions, let’s plan your volunteering adventure. Why have yet another beach holiday when you can be part of an unforgettable cultural exchange? Switch sitting on an overpriced gondola in Venice for a tractor in Tuscany. Instead of the crazy crowds of Cinque Terre, surround yourself with the stunning countryside of Umbria. By joining Workaway, you’ll discover the real Italy is so much more than Rome and Ravioli!
As the world’s leading community for volunteering and cultural exchange, Workaway is the perfect platform to connect with locals in Italy. Whether you are a solo backpacker trying to find a travel buddy, recently retired or setting off on a grown up gap year – we can help you find your perfect host. Best of all, you can join as a solo traveller, as a couple, or even as a family! In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your host will usually provide free accommodation and meals. Mamma Mia indeed!
As well as searching by region, use your skills and interests as keywords in the search box to find your dream host in Italy. Whether you’re enticed by the beaches of Sardinia, dream of sailing the Amalfi Coast or hiking your way through the Dolomites – your perfect host is literally a few clicks away.
Best of all, when you join Workaway you are not limited to one project or region. For a small membership fee you have access to over 50,000 volunteer opportunities across 170 countries. After Italy, why not head over the border? To the north, the Alps separate Italy from France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia - best of all we have hosts in each of these countries too!
Although we’ve mentioned a few opportunities in the regions above, here is a brief overview of the type of volunteering projects that are particularly popular in Italy:
What’s more rewarding than indulging in Italy’s incredible cuisine? Learning how to grow it! From olives in Puglia to the famous oranges and lemons of Sicily, San Marzano tomatoes to Veneto’s vineyards - there are so many ways you can learn about the farming processes behind your favourite foods in Italy.
Handy with a hammer? Perfect! From maintaining traditional trulli in Puglia to restoring a 16th century farmhouse in Tuscany - there are so many restoration and DIY projects that need your help. Renovation and repair skills are some of the best skills you can learn before your next Workaway as there is always a demand for volunteers within these areas. From fence painting to furniture upcycling, plumbing to plastering - there are so many ways you can lend a hand and help protect Italy’s heritage one beautiful building at a time.
Social impact volunteer work is all about creating positive change in communities and empowering those in need. From working with children and youth NGOs to education and women's empowerment projects, there are endless opportunities to give back to the world (although, it is vital we all learn how to give back the right way!) These projects are not only rewarding but also allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture, and make meaningful connections with locals.
As mentioned, there are 5 autonomous regions in Italy with the goal of preserving each region’s unique cultural and linguistic differences. While volunteering anywhere in Italy will help you learn the language fast, these regions are particularly special if you want to further your language learning or teaching experience. Each region speaks Italian but a large percentage of its population also speak another language. For example:
You may have guessed by now but Italy is a dream destination for foodies. Whether you’re an aspiring chef, dream of a career in nutrition or simply want to learn more about farm to table, it’s an excellent location to volunteer as your skills and knowledge of authentic Italian cuisine could help boost your CV.
From bee keeping to boating, marketing to music - there are SO many types of volunteering and ways to get involved with Workaway. While we pride ourselves on being a cultural exchange, Workaway is also a great way to boost your CV, learn a new language and make friends all over the world. With over three thousand hosts in Italy alone, there are so many ways you can share your time and make a difference while enjoying this epic destination.
Hopefully you now agree that Italy is as irresistible as gelato on a hot Summer day. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Rome, there’s a place and project to suit all kinds of people.
Combine the Mediterranean sun, the incredible cuisine and warm Italian hospitality with a sprinkling of parmesan and you have the perfect recipe for a truly special volunteering experience. We promise it will be *chef’s kiss*
