Welcome! I’m Emily, and I’m delighted to share some of my favorite hidden gems across Italy with you. We’ve been living here for a while now, and my family and I have discovered so many wonderful places that aren’t always on the typical tourist trail. My goal is to help you find authentic experiences, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your little ones.
I remember one afternoon, my kids were asking for gelato and I steered them down a side alley in one of these lesser-known towns. Suddenly, the noise of the main square disappeared, and we found ourselves surrounded by tall, ancient buildings. The smell of baking bread filled the air, and for a few minutes, it felt like we had stepped back in time. It’s these quiet, unexpected moments that make traveling through Italy so special, and I hope I can help you find yours.
Discovering Emilia-Romagna
When we first approached Brisighella in Emilia-Romagna, it truly felt like walking onto a movie set. The hills are dramatic, with these striking rocky formations topped by solitary trees. You can see old towers standing guard, and you can’t help but wonder what stories they hold from centuries past.
Brisighella itself is a charming town, and it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the natural beauty around it. I always love to wander through the medieval streets; they are narrow and winding, perfect for getting lost in. There’s also a really unique elevated covered walkway, the Via degli Asini, or Donkey’s Path. It’s quite something to walk along it, offering little nooks where you can pause and just soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the town and the views.
When you’re exploring towns like Brisighella, remember to look up! So much of the history and charm is in the architecture above street level – the intricate balconies, the old windows, and the unique ways buildings are connected. It’s easy to miss if you’re only looking straight ahead.
Walking in Sicily
My husband Michael and I recently explored a walking route in Sicily known as the Via dei Frati. This 54-mile trek takes you across the Madonie mountains, and honestly, we encountered hardly any other walkers or tourists. The views are absolutely stunning throughout the entire journey.
Each day we finished in a different beautiful Sicilian village. Gangi is one notable example, a truly picturesque hill town. Even though English wasn’t widely spoken in some of these smaller villages, we found that a smile and a few gestures went a long way. People were incredibly welcoming, and we always managed to communicate what we needed. Dining in these villages, with simple, local food, was a highlight.
If you’re planning a walking trip in more remote areas of Italy, don’t worry too much about language barriers. Learning a few basic Italian phrases like “Buongiorno” (Good morning), “Grazie” (Thank you), and “Per favore” (Please) can make a huge difference and is always appreciated by the locals. Pointing and smiling work wonders too!
Castles and Catacombs in Basilicata
The southern region of Basilicata is packed with fascinating places, and Venosa is one you really shouldn’t miss. It’s the birthplace of the famous Roman poet Horace. What’s amazing about Venosa is that it was once a very important center, but today it’s a quiet, remote small town.
You can explore extensive Roman ruins here, and there are ancient Jewish catacombs that are quite moving to visit. The town also boasts a breathtaking castle. Everywhere you turn, there’s beauty and historical interest. The local food and wine are also fantastic – a real treat. Nearby, places like the castles at Melfi and Lagopesole, and the ducal palace at Pietragalla, are spectacular. If they were located in more popular tourist areas, they would undoubtedly be world-famous.
When visiting archaeological sites, especially in Southern Italy, carrying plenty of water is essential, even if the weather seems mild. The sun can be intense, and it’s easy to underestimate how much you’ll need. I always pack a reusable water bottle that I can refill when I find a cafe or a town fountain.
Eco Bliss in the Apennines
For a truly peaceful escape, we found an eco-hotel called Mulino delle Cortine, nestled deep in the Apennines east of Florence. It’s reached via a three-mile dirt track, and when you arrive, it feels almost cartoonishly serene.
There is a shaded river swimming pool, which you access by climbing down a rope into the riverbed – a unique adventure! The surrounding forests offer an array of hiking trails along streams, and the complete lack of phone reception here is a blessing. It’s the perfect spot to truly disconnect. The meals are simple but delicious, featuring rustic pasta dishes, regional cheeses, meats, and cheesecakes, all served slowly under the night sky.
What’s the best time to visit for nature lovers?
The spring and early autumn months are particularly lovely for enjoying the natural surroundings and hiking trails. The wildflowers in spring are beautiful, and the autumn colors in the forests are spectacular. Summer can be warm for hiking, so early mornings are best then.
Medieval Gem in Friuli
In the northeastern region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the town of Cividale is like stepping into a living postcard. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of history, with Roman roots and one of Italy’s most remarkable medieval sites – the exquisite eighth-century Tempietto Longobardo, built by the Lombards.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets is a delight. Be sure to cross the Devil’s Bridge, which offers lovely views of the emerald Natisone River. Beyond its historical beauty, Cividale offers genuine Italian charm. You’ll find family-run trattorias serving delicious local food and wine, and you can experience vibrant cultural traditions.
I’ve found that in smaller, well-preserved towns like Cividale, the best way to experience them is on foot and without a strict itinerary. Allow yourself to wander down unexpected lanes; you might discover a hidden courtyard, a charming artisan shop, or a small cafe perfect for people-watching.
A Mini-Venice Without the Crowds
Just 16 miles south of its famous sibling, Chioggia is a place I call “mini-Venice.” It’s an easy day trip and so often overlooked by tourists. Chioggia offers a glimpse of what Venice might have looked like in an earlier time. It’s even mentioned by the Roman author Pliny the Elder.
Like Venice, Chioggia features canals and narrow alleys. It also has an interesting Museum of Adriatic Zoology, beautiful beaches nearby, a fort, and plenty of medieval architecture to admire. The pace of life here feels more relaxed, and you get a real sense of local community.
How can I experience local life in Chioggia?
Visiting the fish market early in the morning is a fantastic way to see the local rhythm of life. Even if you’re not buying, the energy and activity are captivating. Afterwards, grab a coffee at a local bar and just observe. We found a small bacaro (a traditional wine bar) where the owner chatted with us using a mix of Italian and hand gestures, and it was a truly memorable interaction.
Hiking in the Ligurian Apennines
The mountainous countryside around Santo Stefano d’Aveto, located in Liguria northeast of Genoa, is a place I return to whenever I can. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the Aveto Natural Regional Park.
The park has trails winding around peaks like Monte Aiona, Monte Penna, Ramaceto, and Zatta, some reaching about 1,800 meters. You’ll find small lakes nestled in the valleys, perfect for a refreshing pause during longer hikes. The old Gambatesa mine can be a fun stop, especially if you have children with you. The meals here are simple and hearty – think polenta, mushrooms, local San Stè cheese, and perhaps wild boar. It’s not about being picture-perfect; it’s about experiencing something real and authentic.
Hiking in mountain areas requires proper preparation. Always check the weather forecast before you set out, let someone know your planned route and expected return time, and carry a basic first-aid kit. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must, even for less challenging trails.
Truffle Tagliatelle in Lazio
Deep in the wild heart of Lazio, you’ll find Campoli Appennino. This medieval village perches dramatically on the edge of a vast sinkhole, surrounded by dense forests, gorges, and the quiet of the mountains.
Hikers can explore the Gole del Lacerno trail, seeking out waterfalls and rugged ravines. A unique attraction is the village sanctuary where rescued brown bears roam freely. But the food is a major draw – especially the truffle tagliatelle at Il Tartufo restaurant. The cream-filled pastries are also melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the pizzas are wonderful. It’s a hidden, wild, and utterly captivating place that you’re unlikely to forget.
What makes Campoli Appennino special for food lovers?
The region is renowned for its truffles, and Campoli Appennino offers a chance to taste them in very traditional dishes. My advice is to ask locals for their recommendations – they often know the best, most authentic places to eat. Also, don’t be afraid to try regional specialties that might be unfamiliar; that’s where some of the best discoveries are made.
Sweet Wines in a Piedmont Village
Loazzolo, a small mountain village in Piedmont, is famous for its magnificent sweet wine, along with many fantastic classic sparkling wines. The villages here are breathtaking, especially in autumn when the landscape is painted in vibrant shades of red, yellow, and green.
This area is a culinary delight with truffles, porcini mushrooms, and hazelnuts. It’s best enjoyed in the early afternoon sun with a good glass of local wine. This part of Piedmont often surprises me because it’s so overlooked by visitors from outside Italy. It remains a hidden treasure, conveniently close to the renowned vineyards of Barolo and the beautiful towns of Asti and Alba.
I’ve learned that some of the best wine experiences in Italy aren’t necessarily at the big, famous wineries. Seek out smaller producers in less-visited areas like Loazzolo. Often, you can arrange visits directly with the owners, leading to more personal and informative tastings.
Roman Remains in Le Marche
Even though it was hot when we visited the archaeological park at Urbs Salvia, south of Ancona in the Marche region, it was well worth the effort. Walking between the perfectly preserved Roman theatre, the temple dedicated to Augusta, and the amphitheater, we sought shelter under trees and drank our water quickly.
The guide seemed to think we were a bit mad, but away from the crowds of Rome or Pompeii, we had ample time to truly marvel at the ancient city before us. Afterwards, we took a detour to Le Logge, a restaurant in Urbisaglia, the medieval town that neighbors the park. We enjoyed a perfect lunch in the shade, reflecting on the history we’d experienced.
What’s the advantage of visiting lesser-known historical sites?
The biggest advantage is having the space to truly appreciate the history without feeling rushed or having to navigate dense crowds. You can linger at a particular spot, imagine what life was like there, and take your time to absorb the details. This is particularly true for sites like Urbs Salvia, where the scale of preservation is remarkable, yet it’s not overwhelmed with visitors.
I hope these glimpses into some of Italy’s lesser-known treasures inspire you to explore beyond the usual paths. Each region offers its own unique charm and experiences, and I’m always excited to discover more. Happy travels!