Are you tired of the crowds and long lines at popular tourist destinations in Italy? If so, you’re not alone. Italy is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, but it can be overwhelming to navigate through the crowds of tourists, even with the best travel advisor in your corner (wink, wink).   Fortunately, there are plenty of hidden gems in Italy that offer a more peaceful and authentic experience. Slow the scroll while you experience our short list below!

Hidden Gems in Northern Italy

For a more authentic Italian experience, away from the crowds, Northern Italy boasts numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. We recommend three places you won’t want to miss.

The Lakes of Friuli Venezia Giulia

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, head to the lakes of Friuli Venezia Giulia. This region is home to several stunning lakes, including Lake Cavazzo, Lake Cornino, and Lake Trasimeno. Lush greenery surrounds these lakes, providing numerous opportunities for hiking, swimming, and fishing. You’ll also find charming villages and towns around the lakes, where you can sample local cuisine and wine.

The Medieval Town of Bergamo

Bergamo is a charming medieval town located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. The town divides into two sections: the upper town and the lower town.. The upper town is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with medieval buildings, while the lower town is a more modern area with shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through the upper town and admire the beautiful architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Palazzo della Ragione.

The Vineyards of Piedmont

Piedmont is a region known for its wine production, but it’s not as well-known as Tuscany or Chianti. That means you can explore the vineyards and wineries without the crowds. The region is home to several wine routes, including the Barolo Wine Route and the Asti Wine Route. Take a tour of the vineyards and sample some of the region’s famous wines, such as Barolo, Barbera, and Moscato.

Le Marche frequently escapes the attention of tourists, yet locals hold it dear as a hidden gem. Rolling hills adorn themselves with charming towns and villages, while vineyards and olive groves grace the landscape.

Unexplored Central Italy

If you’re looking for a quieter and more authentic Italian experience, then central Italy is the place to go. These unexplored gems should be added to your itinerary:

The Hills of Le Marche

Tourists often overlook Le Marche, but locals cherish it as a hidden gem. Charming towns and villages dot the rolling hills, while vineyards and olive groves punctuate the landscape.

If you’re a lover of food and wine, then you’ll be in heaven here. Le Marche is famous for its white truffles, and there are plenty of wineries where you can sample the local wines.

The Beaches of Abruzzo

Abruzzo, often overlooked by tourists, boasts some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches. The coastline remains rugged and unspoiled, offering many quiet coves and bays for relaxation and sun-soaking.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, then there are plenty of water sports on offer, including surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

The Ancient Town of Matera

Matera exemplifies an LTA-verified hidden Italian gem that offers an incredible experience, all without the crowds. This UNESCO World Heritage Site often labels as the “Sassi City.” The town hews into the side of a hill, and its houses carve out of the rock. Exploring the narrow streets and alleyways of Matera, one can discover its rich history and culture in numerous museums and galleries, making it a captivating destination. It stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world

So, when you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience that’s off the beaten path and has been endorsed by a well-traveled professional– and who isn’t, consider these lesser-known and lesser-traveled locales as your next memory-maker destinations.  With its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food and wine, you’re sure to fall in love with any or all of these magnificent regions of Italy!    Let’s have a 15-minute chat to see if I can help get you packing soon!