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Classic agritourism accommodation has a country vibe because these particular properties are often set in rustic locations with nature right on the doorstep. But more than that, they are often revamped farms that put guests in the middle of working fields or vineyards. They sometimes invite visitors to get involved in the day-to-day workings of the place and serve true farm-to-table food, making them at once rustic and charming.

If you need a respite from the bustle and stresses of the city, an agritourism break could be the antidote you've been searching for. You'll wake to the sound of nature – think chirping birds, mooing cows. You might have the chance to get into farming or learn the processes behind olive oil production. And you'll often get homecooked, hearty meals to taste come evening – expect no fast food here.

Italy has really defined what is agritourism. As the birthplace of these sorts of outdoorsy farm stays, Italy now has more agritourism destinations than any other country. You'll find them peppered in hills of cypress-spotted Tuscany or studding the hillsides of the Brescia pre-Alps, from Sicily in the south to the Dolomites in the north. But agritourism is elsewhere, too, with ranch stays in the US and vineyard trips in France following suit.

Agritourism stays might not be the cheapest of places to stay, but they'll rarely break the bank. In fact, those on an agricultural tour of Italy or France should be pleased to find that a room in these sorts of accommodations is often the same price – or even lower – than a conventional city hotel. Of course, you can loosen the purse strings and go for something a little more suave, where romantic patios and Tuscan vistas are the norm.

Booking an agritourism escape is just like booking any other accommodation on Expedia. Enter the place you're looking to explore and sort by agritourism stays. The map tool is a handy extra that lets you pinpoint somewhere that's in the exact Tuscan valley or on the exact Sicilian coastal stretch you're after. And remember – booking flights, car hire, and tours together with a stay can often help save money.

The definition of agritourism is a varied one. Some of these stays offer the antithesis of city life, with hands-on farming experiences and fruit-picking sessions in vineyards putting them on the forefront of ecotourism. Others take on a more luxurious tone, with verdant gardens and swimming pools. Either way, the overarching theme is a taste of nature, and the possibility of ecological adventure, whatever style of stay you go for.

Agritourism often blurs with the country hotel scene. These rustic stays have come so far that they now offer some of the same luxuries as their conventional counterparts – think swimming pools and on-site restaurants.So what's the difference between agritourism properties and hotels? You can always tell an agritourism destination for its bucolic vibe and personal touches. There are usually just a few rooms in each place, along with working fields or vineyards on site.