It is one of the most beautiful countries you can see out there in the world. However, touring in Italy can be tricky as you encounter few crowded cities. Venice, Florence, and Rome are few such examples of crowded cities. Regardless of the crowds, people come here to witness the unique and amazing attractions. They include the leaning tower of Pisa, gondolas canals, and many more.
The crowd that you find in most of these popular places can hamper your experience. While you should definitely visit these Italian cities, you don’t need to stick to them for your entire vacation. On the other hand, Italy offers some rare gems that are fairly unknown. Not only are they gorgeous but also offer you the chance to enjoy the beauty and culture of Italy without running into huge number of tourists all the time. Let’s explore them in detail.
Here’s the content divided into different regions of Italy:
Hidden Gems in Northeast Italy:
1. Verona, Veneto
With the moniker Little Tibet, Campo Imperatore is a mountain grassland that changes its colors every season. While the summer season brings out the yellows and browns, the spring shows different hues of green. Visit in autumn and the place becomes bleak gray. But it is in winter that it becomes breathtaking. Completely covered with snow, the Campo Imperatore in Abruzzo has become a ski resort frequented by skiing enthusiasts.
How to get there : Verona has its own airport, Verona Villafranca Airport, which is connected to several European cities. Alternatively, you can take a train from major Italian cities like Milan, Venice, or Bologna to Verona Porta Nuova railway station.
2. Bolzano, Alto Adige
Located near the Dolomite Mountains, Bolzano borders Austria and Switzerland. Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, the place is the epitome of natural beauty. The charming city also has gorgeous castles and monuments that would make sightseeing bliss. It is also a great place to enjoy trekking, mountain biking, hiking and such other nature excursions. Culturally, Bolzano has quaint little towns where Italians, Germans and Ladins live together peacefully.
How to get there: Bolzano has its own airport, Bolzano Airport, with connections to a few Italian cities. However, the most convenient way to reach Bolzano is by train. It is well-connected to major cities like Verona, Venice, and Innsbruck (Austria).
3. Treviso, Veneto
If you want to enjoy the beauty and charm of Venice without the tourists that overcrowd the city, you must skip Venice and instead visit Treviso, a city in Veneto. Complete with cobblestone streets, medieval churches, old canals and red-brick palaces, Treviso is a great place to visit to enjoy an authentic Italian experience. Another highlight of the place is that it is origin place for Prosecco wine, Radicchio and the world-famous Italian dessert, Tiramisu.
How to get there: Treviso has its own airport, Treviso Airport, which is mainly used by low-cost airlines. You can also easily reach Treviso by train from Venice (30 minutes) or by bus from Marco Polo International Airport in Venice.
Hidden Gems in Northwest Italy:
1. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Bologna is the city where the first university was established in Europe, in the 11th century. Apart from picturesque natural landscapes, the land is also popular for its art and culture. However, one of the major reasons that people visit Bologna is for its food. The streets of the city dish out the most delicious Italian cuisine. Some of the dishes that you have to try here including fresh egg pasta, lasagne, tortellini, different kinds of meats and mortadella.
Bologna has an international airport, Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is well-connected to many European cities. From the airport, you can take the Aerobus shuttle service or a taxi to reach the city center in about 20-30 minutes.
Bologna is also a major railway hub in Italy, with high-speed train connections to cities like Milan, Florence, and Rome. The main railway station, Bologna Centrale, is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by bus or taxi.
Suggested Read: Lake Como in Italy: Here’s Everything You Should Know About It
Hidden Gems in Central Italy:
1. Campo Imperatore, Abruzzo
With the moniker Little Tibet, Campo Imperatore is a mountain grassland that changes its colors every season. While the summer season brings out the yellows and browns, the spring shows different hues of green. Visit in autumn and the place becomes bleak gray. But it is in winter that it becomes breathtaking. Completely covered with snow, the Campo Imperatore in Abruzzo becomes a ski resort frequented by skiing enthusiasts.
How to get there: The nearest airport is Pescara Abruzzo Airport. From there, you can take a bus or drive to Campo Imperatore. You can also reach the area by bus from the city of L’Aquila.
2. Cascate delle Marmore, Umbria
Cascate delle Marmore or Marmore Waterfalls is nothing less than splendid. Situated between a thick forest and lush grasslands, this 165 meter waterfall is unique as you get to see River Velino plunging into River Nera. The best part is that it a manmade waterfall created by ancient Romans. Apart from being mesmerized by the waterfalls in Italy, you can also indulge in water sports like river rafting, caving, trekking, canyoning, and climbing here.
How to get there: The nearest airport is Sant’Egidio Airport in Perugia. From there, you can drive or take a bus to Cascate delle Marmore. You can also reach the waterfalls by train, alighting at Terni or Marmore station.
3. Castelluccio, Umbria
Located in the Apennine Mountains, Castelluccio is a place with just 150 inhabitants. While large number of tourists is the last thing you would find here, what you would actually find here is a fascinating hamlet with gorgeous views.
Surrounded by mountains, Castelluccio is a large plateau where you will see colorful blooms ranging from violets and red poppies to narcissuses and oxalis. The little town is known as a haven for outdoor adventurists as you can indulge in mountain biking, paragliding, horseback riding, archery, hiking and such other activities here.
How to get there: The nearest airports are Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport and Ancona Falconara Airport. From there, you can drive to Castelluccio. You can also take a bus from the nearby town of Norcia.
4. Perugia, Umbria
The capital city of Umbria, Perugia, is complete with mountains, historical monuments, arched stairways, piazzas, enormous mansions, and cobbled alleys. While the place is steeped in beauty and history, it is also a university-city and thus home to many youngsters.
The place is known for its nightlife, jazz music and of course food. Perugia is also famous for its chocolate and has some of the best chocolate producers in the world. So, if you are a chocolate lover, your visit to Perugia would comprise pure indulgence!
How to get there: Perugia has its own airport, Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, connected to several European cities. You can also reach Perugia by train or bus from major Italian cities like Rome and Florence.
Hidden Gems in Southern Italy:
1. Alberobello, Puglia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alberobello in Puglia is home to white buildings with cone-shaped roofs. The rows of 1500 beehive-shaped houses are a sight to see and truly the major attraction of this place. While the village has a maze of narrow streets and pretty piazzas, you must definitely visit the belvedere which gives you the most gorgeous views of the city. Although you can visit this place throughout the year, it is best to avoid between the months of May and October as it can get really crowded with tourists.
How to get there: The nearest airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Airport. From there, you can take a train or drive to Alberobello. There are also bus connections from major cities in Puglia.
2. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Bologna is the city where the first university was established in Europe, in the 11th century. Apart from picturesque natural landscapes, the land is also popular for its art and culture. However, one of the major reasons that people visit Bologna is for its food. The streets of the city dish out the most delicious Italian cuisine. Some of the dishes that you have to try here including fresh egg pasta, lasagne, tortellini, different kinds of meats and mortadella.
How to get there: Bologna has its own airport, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, with connections to many European cities. Bologna is also a major rail hub, with excellent connections to cities like Milan, Florence, and Rome.
3. Grotte di Castellana, Puglia
Nature is an accomplished architect and Puglia’s Grotte di Castellana is the best example of this. Originated some 90 million years ago, this is an enchanting cave system that you would rarely find anywhere else in the world. Complete with stalagmites, stalactites, precious crystals and hangings, the tour of the cave would definitely leave you mesmerized. Some of the habitats include Civetta, Cupola, Madonnina, Altare, Monumenti, etc. The most popular and must visit caves amongst them are the Grave and the Grotta Bianca or the White Cave.
How to get there : The nearest airports are Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport and Brindisi Airport. From there, you can drive or take a bus to Grotte di Castellana. The caves are located near the town of Castellana Grotte.
Conclusion:
With so many hidden gems, the best places to see in Italy are not just the popular ones. So, if you want to have a peaceful and quiet holiday, these unknown places would give you a taste of Italy without the crowd. If you need to pamper yourself during the holiday, you must visit one of the Italian massage centres that are not only popular for their relaxing massages but also for their unique ambience and services.
FAQ’s About Italy Attractions
What is the best time to visit Italy to explore its hidden gems?
The best time to visit Italy and explore its hidden gems depends on your preferences and the specific locations you plan to visit. Generally, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are ideal, as the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (November to March) can be cold, especially in the north. However, some places like Campo Imperatore are particularly stunning in winter, while others like Castelluccio are best visited in spring or summer to see the colorful blooms.
Do I need to speak Italian to visit these hidden gems?
While knowing some basic Italian phrases can be helpful, you don't necessarily need to speak Italian to visit these hidden gems. In most tourist areas, you'll find people who speak English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist information centers. However, learning a few common Italian greetings and phrases can help you connect with locals and show respect for their language and culture.
Are these hidden gems accessible by public transportation?
Many of these hidden gems are accessible by public transportation, such as trains and buses. Cities like Verona, Bolzano, Treviso, Perugia, and Bologna have well-connected train stations, while others like Alberobello and Grotte di Castellana can be reached by bus.
However, some places like Campo Imperatore and Castelluccio might be easier to access by car, as public transportation options may be limited or less frequent in these more remote areas.
Are there guided tours available to these hidden gems?
Yes, there are guided tours available to many of these hidden gems. Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to explore these places, especially if you're short on time or prefer not to navigate the logistics of transportation and itinerary planning yourself.
Guided tours can also provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and traditions of each location. You can find guided tours through online travel agencies, local tourist offices, or by contacting the specific attractions directly.
What should I pack when visiting these hidden gems?
When packing for your visit to these hidden gems, consider the season and the specific activities you plan to do. In general, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as many of these places involve exploring on foot. In summer, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. In winter, bring warm layers, a coat, and possibly rain gear.
If you plan to visit churches or religious sites, remember to pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Additionally, don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of these hidden gems.
Are there any special events or festivals held in these hidden gems?
Yes, many of these hidden gems host special events and festivals throughout the year. For example, Verona hosts an annual opera festival in its ancient Roman amphitheater during the summer months.
Perugia is famous for its Eurochocolate festival in October, which celebrates all things chocolate. Alberobello hosts a Christmas market in December, where you can find traditional decorations and gifts. Castelluccio is known for its lentil festival in July, showcasing the area's famous lentil production. Check the local tourist office websites or the specific attraction's website for information on upcoming events and festivals during your visit.