Italy has always been a popular holiday destination and it’s very easy to see why. Along with the great food and many historical sites, you have stunning countryside and an endless list of must-see destinations. However, there is more to Italy when you start to look outside of the big tourist hotspots. If Venice or Rome are two places you’ve seen before, there’s nothing like finding a few less popular but equally enjoyable locations to enjoy more of this beautiful country.
To help, below are some of the secret spots to look for that locals love, and the tourist crowds are less likely to find. If you were looking for an excuse to book another trip to Italy, hopefully the below gives you plenty to convince friends and family with.
Hidden Gems in the North
Let’s start in the North of Italy, and if you are based in Milan or Venice, you won’t be too far from one of the country’s leading wine regions. Franciacorta produces some of Italy’s finest sparkling wines and is a great way to spend a day or two exploring the vineyards and surrounding area as well as sampling the wine (it would be rude not to). Whilst in this region located in Lombardy, you can also head to Monte Isola which is a mountain in the middle of Lake Iseo – a stunning village with amazing views of the mountainous hills where you can enjoy a quieter pace.
You also have the city of Sabbioneta which has been called one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Also in Lombardy, the wonderful architecture is a step back in time, almost untouched by modern amenities, which is no surprise it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just 19 miles North of Parma, this is a must for anyone who appreciates Renaissance age buildings and wants to wander its grid town design.
Whilst in the North, the Dolomite Mountains provide spectacular scenery all year round and the opportunity to explore hiking trails and, depending on the time of year, skiing. Another World Heritage Site, holidaying here is a different experience to other parts of Italy, but well worth it to get away from the busiest tourist spots.
Central Italy’s Beautiful Towns
If you plan to spend any time in central Italy, you have a wealth of fantastic options. If you’ve seen everything Rome, Pisa and Florence have to offer, here’s a few other suggestions.
You can head to Umbria and discover Trevi, which is an ancient town where you can see olive plantations, panoramic views from its hilltop and a slower, more reflective pace of life. Another of Italy’s most beautiful villages, it’s a town that takes you back into the past. Its unusual layout has given it the name ‘snail town’, thanks to the winding paths where you can climb all the way to the top and see the 12th century built Cathedral of Sant’Emiliano, and also the Gothic church of San Francesco.
The Sibillini Mountains are not too far from Trevi, with peaks of over 2,000 metres in the Monti Sibillini National Park. This area is full of beautiful hills with many flowers, wetlands and forests that you could spend days exploring if you wanted to. As well as the natural beauty of the area, there are plenty of trails taking you to villages which can be walked or cycled. Norcia is one of those that is a must-see as well as Castelsantangelo sul Nera, the castle that appears on the hillside.
Heading to Tuscany, you can find the walled town of Monteriggioni. This small medieval town and its intact walls are just North of Siena and offer a further glimpse into the past. Called ‘the gateway to the Middle Ages’, it’s also a quiet escape from other nearby tourist spots on the hilltop that has plenty to see and do for a few hours.
If you then want to enjoy the great weather by the sea, a trip East to the region of Le Marche will bring you to the untouched beaches of Conero Riviera. You’ll find clear waters and rugged cliffs where secluded beaches, accessible only by foot or boat, can be enjoyed in peace.
Cover For the Unexpected Whilst Away
Italy is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year, and whilst most trips will go without any mishaps, it’s always best to prepare for the unexpected. If you have travel insurance, you can ensure if anything did happen whilst away that you can get the help you need quickly. For those who are travelling with a health condition, you can choose medical travel insurance that covers any pre-existing medical conditions you may have, so that you can travel to Italy with confidence just in case you do need to claim. As well as health-related issues, you’ll also be covered for trip cancellations, delays and any issues with your baggage.
If you’re unsure of what counts as a pre-existing medical condition, travel insurance provider Staysure explains that this is any past or current medical condition where in the last two years you’ve had symptoms, treatment or prescribed medication. Also, if you’ve had any medical consultation, investigation or follow-up in that time you will need to declare this. It’s best to be fully transparent to avoid any potential issue with a claim.
Always check that your policy covers the specific activities you plan to do, so if you are planning to go hiking in the Dolomites or sail around the Aeolian islands, you’ll want peace of mind that you’ll still be covered. As well as insurance, it can be a good idea to carry your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This will ensure you can access state-run hospital treatment at a reduced cost or for free. Having this and insurance will ensure you’re prepared fully just in case.
Southern Italy and the Islands
The South of Italy is where hot weather and scorched landscapes can provide a different experience to the mountainous and colder North. Less frequented by international tourists, there is much to see and enjoy that many locals can appreciate without the crowds of busier regions or the city of Naples.
You can head to the Calabria region right at the foot of Italy and find gems such as the small village of Chianalea di Scilla. This fishing village has plenty of charm with fishermen’s houses right on the water’s edge. Across the water in Sicily, there’s the town of Caltagirone, part of a World Heritage Site that is made up of eight towns in the area. Known for its ceramics, a must-see is the stunning ceramic Staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, which has 142 steps that are each beautifully decorated.
Whilst in the South, the Aeolian Islands just North of Sicily are a group of seven islands that are worth visiting. Lipari is the largest where you can see Quattrocchi viewpoint and the beautiful historic buildings, whilst Vulcano is a volcanic island where you can visit the crater for stunning views of all the islands. You could spend your whole holiday just visiting these islands for an unforgettable trip.
Ready to See A Different Side of Italy?
Wherever you end up heading first, remember it’s all about finding somewhere different to the usual tourist traps and extremely busy locations that are just as rewarding. The above will give you plenty to think about when heading back to Italy or even if you are going for the first time and want to explore a bit more. Think like a local and you’re sure to find even more great locations that most other holidaymakers will never get to see.
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