Italy’s rich cultural history and breathtaking landscapes have made it a renowned destination for tourists from around the world. However, as delightful as popular sites may be, they often become overcrowded. To help you uncover the true beauty of Italy, we’ve compiled a list of lesser-known travel destinations that will provide an unforgettable experience.
Sulzano: A serene lakeside retreat nestled on the shores of Lago d’Iseo, Sulzano offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The town is easily accessible by train and provides access to the stunning Antica Strada Valeriana trail. A short ferry ride away lies Monte Isola, an idyllic island perfect for exploration. Enjoy swimming, delectable cuisine, and a laid-back atmosphere in this charming lakeside town.
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The Dolomites: Majestic mountain beauty although not entirely off the beaten path, the Dolomites are a must-visit destination for anyone seeking awe-inspiring scenery. With numerous picturesque towns nestled within the mountains, such as Ortisei, this region offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
World Heritage Site, the Dolomites form a mountain range located in the Alps of Italy covering an area of more than 141.000 hectares and peaks over 3.000 meters high. An immense variety of trails, lakes, unique villages and breathtaking landscapes are present in every little bit of this place.
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Castiglione di Sicilia: A scenic Sicilian escape located in Sicily, the enchanting town of Castiglione di Sicilia boasts dramatic views of the Alcantara Valley. Stay in nearby Linguaglossa and enjoy scenic drives to neighboring towns, or indulge in a delightful Airbnb experience complete with an olive oil farm, winery, and cactus garden.
Scenic sunset view of Castiglione di Sicilia village, Sicily, Italy
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Gubbio, Umbria: A charming getaway though more popular than other entries on this list, the small towns of Umbria are still worth a mention. Gubbio, in particular, is a delightful destination with great hiking opportunities at Mount Cucco.
View of Gubbio with roman theatre and medieval towers in Umbria, Italy
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Giovinazzo: A historic coastal village located in Puglia, Giovinazzo is a quaint port town with a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times. The old town is filled with historic churches, art, and architecture, while the lungomare (pier) offers a lively atmosphere. Experience the incredible local cuisine, including some of the world’s finest olives and olive oil.
The beautiful waterfront of Giovinazzo, town in the province of Bari, Puglia (Apulia), southern Italy. Photo by depositphotos.com
Abruzzo: Italy’s undiscovered treasure. This lesser-known region boasts unique traditions, hearty cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore trabocchi, ancient fishing contraptions turned restaurants, or stay in a charming agriturismo or renovated B&B in a medieval village like Santo Stefano di Sessanio.
Castel del Monte, Abruzzo, Italy
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Genoa: A vibrant port. City Genoa’s intriguing blend of history and modernity is attracting more visitors each year. Wander through the city’s narrow vicoli (alleys) filled with charming restaurants, pubs, and cafés, or explore the stunning Villa Pallavicini and Genoa Nervi parks. Nearby, you can also visit picturesque coastal towns like Camogli, San Fruttuoso, and Portofino by ferry.
Boccadasse, a district of Genoa in Italy, looks like a small village by the sea
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Expand Your Tuscan Experience If you’ve already fallen in love with Tuscany, consider revisiting Florence for day trips to nearby gems like Siena, San Gimignano, and Lucca.
Historical city of Sienna Italy.
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By exploring these hidden Italian gems, you’ll not only avoid the crowds but also uncover the true beauty and charm of this incredible country. As you embark on your Italian adventure, remember that these hidden gems are just the beginning. There are countless more enchanting destinations waiting to be discovered across this captivating country. To uncover more of Italy’s lesser-known treasures, be sure to visit our website, where you’ll find a wealth of information, inspiration, and travel tips to help you create the trip of a lifetime.
Buon viaggio!