For most people, Italy equals Rome, Florence, and Venice and their unforgettable landmarks. Yet beyond the crowded tourist areas, Italy has millions of secrets—villages, towns, and areas where history, nature, and character mingle in ways untouched by tourists. For more authentic Italy, here are 15 insider tips for undistinguished gems throughout the nation that are worth adding to your travel agenda.
1. Castelmezzano, Basilicata
Dramatically situated against the wild scenery of the Dolomiti Lucane, Castelmezzano is a fairytale scene come to life. Most visitors happen across it by accident, but it’s well worth including in your itinerary. The town complements perfectly its pair on the other mountain, Pietrapertosa, with which it’s connected by the heart-stopping “Flight of the Angel” zipline. Aside from the breath-taking panoramas, Castelmezzano has hiking trails, green forests, and centuries-old atmosphere that makes an overnight stay a fantasy experience.
2. Locorotondo, Puglia
Circular in design and brimming with character, Locorotondo is one of Puglia’s prettiest towns. Its whitewashed houses glow in the Mediterranean sun, with vibrant flowers spilling from windowsills and cozy restaurants tucked into winding streets. Every corner feels like a postcard, and whether you’re sipping espresso, indulging in gelato, or wandering with your camera, this dreamy town will capture your heart.
3. Mantua, Lombardy
Despite its grandeur, Mantua remains surprisingly overlooked. Once ruled by the Gonzaga family, this city boasts an impressive Ducal Palace with over 600 rooms adorned with frescoes and artwork. Add to that the Te Palace, the enchanting Teatro Bibiena, and lakes that sparkle with lily pads at sunset, and you’ll wonder why Mantua isn’t packed with visitors. It’s also a paradise for wine lovers—this is Lambrusco country, after all.
4. Tropea, Calabria
Calabria’s gem, Tropea, boasts sparkling waters, sandy shores, and rugged cliffs. Its postcard-inducing landmark is the Santa dell’Isola church on a rocky outcrop, while its medieval old town offers picturesque streets to explore. While it does become more crowded in the summer, Tropea remains significantly quieter than Italy’s northern beach resorts, providing an excellent hub to discover the untamed beauty of the region’s south.
5. Alberobello, Puglia
Alberobello is renowned for its fairytale trulli houses—stone buildings with conical roofs. Though the central trulli area can be congested, stepping into the peaceful streets shows a truer side of the town. The unusual architecture, together with the fusion of contemporary life constructed around it, provides an intriguing contrast that is like walking between periods.
6. Martina Franca, Puglia
At times, the best discoveries are stumbled upon. Martina Franca is one such treasure, boasting narrow streets, sun-drenched squares, and an understated elegance that hints at its Baroque heritage. Few visitors make it here, but those who do get to experience lively cafes, top-notch local food, and an opera festival that illuminates the town every summer.
7. Orta San Giulio, Piedmont
Lake Orta is not perhaps as well-known as Como or Garda, but that’s the beauty of it. The pastel-hued town of Orta San Giulio has peaceful lake views, magical piazzas, and a laid-back way of life. A boat ride out to San Giulio island is a necessity, while nights spent sipping aperitivos with the reflections of the lake surrounding you seem like pure magic.
8. Valsugana, Trentino
If you’re craving alpine scenery without the heavy tourist crowds, Valsugana is your answer. This valley is home to pristine lakes like Levico, many of which have earned Blue Flag status for their water quality. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply soaking in the mountain views, Valsugana feels refreshingly untouched—a perfect alternative to busier destinations like Lake Garda.
9. Val di Non, Trentino
No matter what its name suggests, the “Valley of Nothing” is full of beauty. Renowned for its apple plantations and studded with castles, Val di Non is where nature and history converge. Highlights are the glassy Lake Tovel that reflects the alpine peaks around it, as well as the expansive rivers that slice through the valley. It’s a peaceful hideaway where landscapes are as bountiful as the culture.
10. Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna
If you’ve ever dreamed of an Italy straight out of a movie, Brisighella will make it a reality. This charming town, framed by rolling vineyards and crowned with a castle, clocktower, and church, is pure romance. Quiet cobblestone streets, gelato shops, and sweeping views from the surrounding hills make it one of Emilia-Romagna’s most picturesque secrets. For something truly unique, check out the old quarry caves that now host live music.
Why These Gems Matter
Italy will never cease to amaze with its legendary landmarks, but its off-the-beaten-path destinations are where the heart of the country lies. From medieval hilltop towns to tranquil lakeside retreats, these secret spots provide tourists the opportunity to live true Italian life—distant from selfie sticks and lengthy lines.
Final Thoughts
If your concept of travel is more about ticking boxes and taking pictures in front of busy monuments, then these off-the-beaten-track Italian gems are what you’re looking for. Each of them has something special—be it history, architecture, landscapes, or just serenity. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Italy, venture a little out of the way, and you’ll find the real magic hidden within its less traveled areas.