21 Hidden Gems in Italy: Little Spots off the Beaten Path

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How the hell did I come up with this list of hidden gems in Italy?

Well, I curated it the good old-fashioned way...

1. I asked my Italian friends. And man, did they have opinions! ❤️
2. I got lost and stumbled upon a few of these myself.
3. I asked my travel-savvy friends who tend to explore magical places.
4. I did my research and collaborated with a few of my fellow travel bloggers!

And if 21 of these curated little paragraphs are too long for you to scroll through, here are the TOP 3 of each region, according to me!

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Hidden Gems in Northern Italy

Let’s dive into the list, starting with Northern Italy.

1. Val di Funes, The Dolomites

Recommended by Me!

When most people think of Italy, they picture bustling cities like Rome and Florence. But there are hidden gems to be found all across the country – including the breathtaking Val di Funes in the South Tyrol region of the Dolomites.

TRAVEL TIP: I discovered this gem while on a 2 Week Road Trip Across Italy & Switzerland, whose only goal was epic hikes and insane mountain views!

This secluded valley is nestled among some of the tallest mountains in Europe, and it’s a hikers’ paradise. With its pristine forests and alpine meadows, it’s easy to forget the outside world exists while you’re exploring Val di Funes. So if you’re looking for a hidden gem in Italy that will take your breath away, this is it. In fact, there are many secret spots like this in the Dolomites, so it’s absolutely worth a trip!

2. Val di Venosta, The Dolomites

Recommended by Paul at Paul Marina

The Val Venosta valley is also located in South Tyrol, the northernmost Italian province, and is the definition of a hidden gem. The valley borders Austria, with the Reschenpass to the North, and Switzerland to the West.

This historical spot is well tucked away in the Alps, and it has been almost forgotten if it wasn’t for one particular sight – the old village of Curon, which was flooded by the local river a while back. What is left today in the lake is the 14th-century historical bell tower.

Val Venosta is also known for high-quality white wine and its apples. The region was influenced by the Romans and the Austrian Tyrolean culture, leaving us with some remarkable landmarks.

• The Monte Maria Abbey, the medieval city of Glurns, and the countless castle ruins in the region are a testament to its history.
• The Castello di Montechiaro ruins are free to visit and will take you to another time, it’s magical!
• A hike to the Seebodenspitze peak or the Schlinig waterfall is sure to leave some unforgettable memories.
• If you are looking for a hidden hangout, then I recommend you spend some time in some side valleys. The Valle Lunga, also known as Langtaufers, is a hot insider tip! The valley makes for an unforgettable road trip, and a great place to see the stunning glaciers from the top.

Val Venosta is truly a place for all those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle. Clean air, unforgettable landscapes, and wonderful local people await you in this valley in the Italian alps. Read up on all the things to do in Val Venosta.

3. Val di Susa, The Dolomites

Recommended by Linda at Insieme Piemonte

The lovely city of Susa and the surrounding Susa Valley are definitely hidden gems in northern Italy. 

This small town is located in the extreme northwest of the Piedmont region, picturesquely nestled in the Alps, only 50km from Turin. Susa is also the namesake of the associated valley, the Val di Susa. The town is dominated by the Rocciamelone, the local mountain, which is about 3000 meters high. 

Due to its location, Susa was already an important border and trading point with its French and Swiss neighbors in Roman times. A real eye-catcher is the well-preserved city gate, the Porta Savoia, from the third century with its striking window openings on four floors and two lateral round towers. Apart from the historical sights of the city center, Susa is also an outstanding starting point for excursions into the beautiful surrounding mountains. 

Val di Susa holds other cultural highlights such as the Sacra di San Michele, the landmark of the Piedmont region, and the Novalesa Abbey, the oldest in the Western Alps. Also, every town in the Susa Valley has at least one castle within its borders, a sign of the valley’s history and strategic importance. In Susa, for example, stands the beautiful castle of Countess Adelaide, one of the oldest in the Susa Valley.  

Thus, Susa and Susa Valley combine the best of culture and nature without being overrun by tourists and are therefore a hidden gem in northern Italy.  

4. Varenna, Lake Como

Recommended by Jolayne of Just Wander More

Nestled along the hillside of Lake Como sits the picturesque village of Varenna. Not only is it one of my favorite hidden gems in Italy, but it also has the distinction of being one of the more romantic destinations on Lake Como that you really need to experience firsthand.

Varenna will draw you in from the moment you arrive. Every walkway, doorway, and passageway is a photographer’s dream.

As you explore Varenna, you’ll want to be sure and visit:

• Piazza San Giorgio, the town center of Varenna and home to the Church of San Giorgio.
• Walk along Riva Grande, Varenna’s lakefront where you’ll discover cafes, restaurants, local artisan shops and boutiques, gelato shops, and a view of Lake Como.
• Visit the Botanical Gardens at Villa Monastero
• Tour Casa Museo while at Villa Monastero, a museum that showcases four centuries of history.
• Walk along the path that skirts the Esino River to the ancient fortress of Castello di Vezio.
• Spend the day lounging at the beach. Choose from the public beach of Fiumelatte or the Lido di Varenna-Perledo, which is equipped with sun beds, deckchairs, and a boat dock.
• Simply wander through the cobbled streets of Varenna and marvel at its beauty.

If you have time for a day trip from Varenna, take the ferry to the world-famous Bellagio and have your camera ready to snap pictures of the colorful villages and homes you pass along the way.

5. Certaldo, Tuscany

Recommended by Jenny at Charge the Globe

Situated only 35km from Florence in northern Italy, Certaldo is a perfect example of a wonderfully preserved medieval Italian village and an excellent example of a hidden gem in Italy. Easily accessible via the funicular that connects the upper and lower towns, Certaldo Alto (the upper section) offers amazing views across the surrounding Tuscan area. The narrow cobblestone streets and small squares make wandering this small village a real delight. 

At the end of the town’s main street, Via Boccaccio, you will find Palazzo Pretorio. Its exterior is covered with many ceramic and terracotta works that Certaldo is famous for, while the interior hosts a stunning fresco “Tabernacle of Condemned prisoners” by Italian artist Benozzo Gozzoli.

Walking along Via Boccaccio if you are lucky you can catch glimpses of the small courtyards and walled gardens of the local homeowners. There is a great selection of small restaurants that offer great Tuscan food so be sure to stop and sample some homemade pasta while you are there. There are also some lovely small galleries and art studios for after-meal promenades! 

The museum Casa Boccaccio is a must-visit! Boccaccio was a very influential figure in the Italian literary world. He retired to Certaldo (the home of his father’s family) in the 1370s to live out his days in peace. The museum is a great showcase of not only his life and work but also offers you the chance to climb the tower and take in the stunning view out over Tuscany. The views out over the red terracotta roofs to the Tuscan landscape beyond are really worth the steps to the top of the tower. Add Certaldo to your European road trip across northern Italy to appreciate a true Medieval Italian village.

6. Lago di Fusine

Recommended by Natali She’s Abroad Again

Did you know that Italy is home to some of the most stunning mountain regions in Europe? 

At the foot of Mangart massif in the Julian Alps, right between the borders of Italy, Austria, and Slovenia in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, you will find the mesmerizing Lago di Fusine. Also known by their Slovenian name – Belopeška Jezera. These alpine lakes of glacial origin will keep you enchanted as you admire how the crystal clear water reflects the magnificent mountain range surrounding the lakes. 

The first lake is called Lago di Fusine Inferiore and the second is Superiore, and they are both stunning. They are connected by a circuit trail, approximately 2 km long that leads through the forest. The trail is barely a hike, and it is suitable for everybody as long as you wear proper footwear. 

The whole circuit trek around the lakes can be done in 45 minutes. But, I recommend you plan at least 2 hours to really soak in the serenity of the lakes, untouched nature, and fresh mountain air. Along the trail, you will find many benches to sit on and admire your surroundings. There is a small cafe in front of the first lake, but I suggest you pack a snack and enjoy a picnic in front of the lake.

Behind the second lake is a starting point for many hikes. If you are looking for a full-day activity and love the outdoors, take the proper equipment and enjoy the view of the region from the mountain top! You can reach the Lakes from Italy and neighboring countries! I visited the lakes in Croatia, and they are a great day trip if you are looking for things to do in Zagreb.

7. Lago di Predil

Recommended by Fernanda at Mauka Travels

Lago del Predil is a beautiful alpine lake located in Northern Italy, in the province of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. It is the second largest lake in the province, but it somehow manages to stay under the radar of most tourists that visit Northern Italy every year. Even though this area is a well-known destination for hikers, Lago del Predil is much quieter than most of the surrounding attractions, making it a great spot for a summer day and one of our hidden gems in Italy to explore!

The lake is right next to Slovenia‘s border, next to a small town called Cave del Predil. It is easily accessible by car, and there are free parking spaces in various spots along the lake. On one of the sides, you will also find a restaurant, a campsite, and a small place that rents boats and kayaks.

For photography lovers, the best time to visit Lago del Predil is during the early hours of the day, until 10-11 am. At this time, you will see perfect reflections on the water and have great photography conditions, as the light is not yet harsh. During the morning, the lake is mostly empty, so it is also the best time to visit if you want to enjoy some quiet time by the water.

The water at Lago del Predil is transparent but freezing cold. Swimming is allowed, but only a handful of visitors end up being bold enough to face the temperature and jump in. Instead of swimming, you can also go for a walk around the lake. There is a marked trail that will take you along the shore. All in all, Lago del Predil is an amazing destination for spending the day, and you can easily combine it with a visit to Laghi di Fusine.

8. Pieve di Cadore

Recommended by Jeanine at Let’s Go Wandering

Pieve di Cadore is one of our hidden gems of Italy and one you won’t want to leave off the perfect itinerary. Considered the natural gateway to the Belluno Dolomiti, it’s a great base for hiking the Dolomite Mountains. Additionally, this picturesque town holds great historical significance to the area with several landmarks and museums.

• The Cadore Archaeological Museum and the Palazzo della Magnifica Comunità di Cadore. Housing a collection of artifacts predating Roman times and other significant pieces of the whole Cadore.
• The Museo dell’Occhiale showcases the history of spectacles (glasses), with over 4,000 pieces on exhibit, including some of the first ever made.
• The family residence of Tiziano Vecellio (Titian), who is considered the greatest painter of 16^th Century Venice.

Tiziano Vecellio (Titian), visited Pieve every year and is known for his influence and generosity. In 1565 he designed several pieces to decorate the church in Pieve.  A Master Renaissance painter, best known for his masterpiece the Assumption of the Virgin, which still stands today. It can be viewed at the high altar of the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari.

The Parco del Roccolo is a delightful park bordering Lago Centro Cadore, with something for everyone to enjoy. Walk amongst the tree-lined paths, visit the Biblioteca degli Gnomi (gnome library), and explore Casa di Babbo Natale (house of Santa).

These places are best visited in the fall season when the leaves are changing. Stop for a rest at Bar Pizzeria Roccolo with a stunning view of Lago Centro Cadore and the Dolomiti peaks of Marmarole in the background.

9. Verona

Recommended by Yesenia at The Sisters Who Voyage

Verona is full of natural beauty and is one of our hidden gems in Italy, tucked away in the north. If you love exploring historical architecture and marveling at its grandeur, then Verona is your city, as it is considered a UNESCO world heritage site. Not only that, Verona boasts numerous surviving roman historical effects such as roman archways, roman art, a preserved colosseum that features opera shows, and other exciting roman ques. 

If walking in the footsteps of famous historical writers such as Shakespeare is more to your tune, then you’ll be riddled with glee when you discover that Verona is the city Shakespeare chose for his infamous soul-crushing play, Romeo and Juliet. If you’re a fan of the play, you’ll want to make sure you visit Juliet’s balcony and tour the house, which is a 13th-century historical building.

Suppose you’re a traveler who values exquisite desserts and delicious meals. In that case, Verona is your go-to because it is chock-full of extraordinary dining destinations that are budget friendly and will keep your wallet and stomach happy. Gelato and hospitality are this city’s specialty.

Don’t be surprised when a small, well-meaning chat turns into a whimsical conversation about travel tips for the town, restaurants you can’t miss, and where to get the best cup of coffee.

PRO TIP: After your fill of Verona, make sure to visit the fashionable city of Milan, a short train ride from Verona. This fascinating city is full of countless things to do and will provide a wonderful actual city feel without losing the tiny details that make Italian cities so attractive. 

10. Bergamo

Recommended by Clare at Where’s Clare?

Bergamo is a small picturesque hidden gem in Northern Italy. The old town was built on a hill, providing stunning views over rolling Italian hills. Some of the best views can be seen from the Convento di San Francesco. The medieval convent perfectly frames the Italian countryside through its arched courtyard.

The main square in the old town is Piazza Vecchia. From here you can easily reach Bergamo’s main attractions including Colleoni Chapel, Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, and Campone Civic Tower. 

• The Colleoni Chapel is one of the most beautiful buildings in Bergamo. It is ornately decorated with marble statues, intricate windows, and a colorful facade. Built in the 15th century, the chapel is adorned with many religious symbols and biblical heroes as well as a bust of the Roman Emperor, Julius Caesar. 
• Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is a rather unassuming church from the outside, but the inside tells a different story. The interior is highly decorated, just as you would expect from an old Italian basilica! The church was built around 900 years ago to honor the Virgin Mary. The locals believed she would protect them from the plague if they built the church for her. 
• The Campone Civic Tower offers panoramic views over Bergamo. To reach the top of the tower, you just need to climb around 200 steps (or take the lift!). At the top of the 52-meter (around 170 feet) tower are the largest bells in the region. They chime 100 times every night at 10 pm.

Although Bergamo may not be a well-known tourist hot spot, it’s super easy to get to. It is less than an hour on the train from Milan and has its own airport. In fact, if you have booked flights to Milan, you may actually be flying into Milan Bergamo Airport in Bergamo. If that’s the case you should definitely add a visit to Bergamo to your itinerary.

11. Alba

Recommended by Denise at Chef Denise

Although Alba is less than an hour and a half from Torino, it is often missed by tourists. Tucked in the rolling hills of Piemonte this hidden gem of Northern Italy is mistakenly not a big bucket list item for many. However, gourmands and foodies know better because Alba produces some of the best food and wine in the country.

Alba happens to be the white truffle capital of the world. Truffles grow wild in the forest and are harvested during truffle season, between September and December. Local restaurant menus will offer truffle pasta, truffle sauces, truffled potatoes, and many other delicious truffle concoctions. Some chefs will even serve full truffle tasting menus where each course incorporates the tasty fungi. Even if you come off-season, it will be worth tasting this treasure of Italian cuisine.

Another specialty of the area is Brasato Barolo. beef marinated in Barolo wine with spices, carrots, celery, and onions. Barolo is one of the dominant wines of the region and wine enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the nearby town of Barolo where it comes from. Two other wine towns, Barbera and Barbaresco, are also worthy of some wine tasting from Alba.

The original Cattedrale di San Lorenzo in the Piazza del Duomo dates back to the 5th century, although its ruins are buried beneath the current 12th-century structure. The 14th-century baroque Church of Saint John the Baptist and Church of San Giovanni both boast numerous pieces of notable artwork as does the city hall.

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Hidden Gems in Southern Italy

12. Alberobello, Puglia

Recommended by Me!

Alberobello Italy is one of my favorite hidden gems in Italy. It is not a town that is on most people’s radar, but it should be. Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique Trulli houses.

The Trulli are conical-shaped houses made of stone with no mortar holding them together. They were originally built as temporary homes that could be easily disassembled if the landowners needed to move. Nowadays, many of them have been turned into restaurants, shops, and mini-hotels – and let me tell you, staying in one of the Trulli houses is a must-do on the bucket list of life!

13. Castelmezzano, Basilicata

Recommended by my Italian friend, Fabio!

Nestled in the Apennine Mountains of southern Italy, the tiny village of Castelmezzano is a hidden gem. With a population of just over 1,000 people, it’s one of the smallest municipalities in the region. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm.

Winding streets and stone houses give the village a medieval feel, while the nearby forests and mountains provide ample opportunity for hiking and exploring. And although it’s off the beaten path, Castelmezzano is well worth a visit for anyone looking to experience the hidden gems of Italy.

14. Ravello, Amalfi Coast

Recommended by Monique at Trip Anthropologist

The towns along the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy are famous for their beaches, beach clubs, and Michelin-starred restaurants. But Italians have discovered their new hottest Amalfi Coast destination and it’s not directly on the coast.

Ravello sits perched above (and between) the coastal towns of Amalfi and Minori. And a thousand or more steps will take you down to either town.

There are so many reasons to visit Ravello, and perhaps the most compelling one is the view. Looking down past the lemon groves and churches to the sea below is a breathtaking view. The town is uncrowded and once the day trippers have left, the central square and the small town’s restaurants fill up with locals and lucky travelers staying overnight.

There are two absolutely jaw-dropping gardens in Ravello. They belong to the historic Villas, Cimbrione and Rufolo. At Villa Cimbrione, the Terrace of Infinity is one of the most photographed places in all of Italy as it seems to hang over the edge of the Amalfi Coast. It is perhaps the most famous wedding destination in Italy.

Oscar Niemeyer created a concert hall and on its terrace, in July there is a series of classical music concerts that draw music lovers from around the world. The stage is backgrounded only by the sea and has become a global phenomenon.

15. Matera, Basilicata

Recommended by Laura at Travelers Universe

Located in Southern Italy and with a very long history, Matera is a unique place that looks like a huge stone nativity scene carved into the rock. Two things are impossible here: not to love it and not to get lost, as its narrow streets are a labyrinth that goes up and down.

It is not easy to establish the beginnings of Matera, but it is known that the caves excavated in the rock were already inhabited during the Palaeolithic. Since then, they have been home to countless families uninterruptedly. This makes Matera one of the oldest cities on the planet.

There are plenty of things to do in Matera, but first, you need to know that Matera is divided into two parts: the historic center and the new neighborhoods. Obviously, the one that interests you is the old part, which rises almost 100 meters above the Gravina ravine, and where most of the attractions are concentrated, including its famous cave houses.

 However beware that the historic center is also divided into several parts such as Sass Caveoso (the oldest area of the city, where there are numerous caves and cave churches), Sasso Barisano (on the other side of the city, also made up of these very peculiar constructions),  Civita (a hill that rises between both neighborhoods and separates them, crowned by the Cathedral), and Piano (developed during the 17th and 18th centuries around Piazza Vittorio Veneto and with many Baroque-style palaces and churches)

PRO TIP: Keep in mind that all these areas are located on an irregular relief, so sometimes you will have to go up and down the alleys or even take a detour to go from one to another.

16. Locorotondo

Recommended by my Italian friend, Augusto!

As anyone who has been to Italy will tell you, the country is full of hidden gems. From the hidden coves of the Amalfi Coast to the medieval hill towns of Tuscany, there are countless places to explore. One of my personal favorites is the town of Locorotondo, located in the southern region of Puglia.

The town is built on a series of hills, and its white-painted homes and narrow streets give it a distinctly Mediterranean feel. The views from the hilltop are simply stunning, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Adriatic Sea. Locorotondo is also home to some excellent restaurants, serving up traditional dishes such as orecchiette with broccoli rabe. And to top it off, it is also surrounded by vineyards, making it the perfect place to enjoy some local wine.

So if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Italy, be sure to add Locorotondo to your list. My friend Augusto liked it so much, he even got married here!

17. Sorrento

Recommended by Sam from Find Love and Travel 

Located in Southern Italy, Sorrento is a lovely hidden gem that is often overlooked compared to cities and towns such as Naples, Positano, and Capri. From beautiful streets, the marina, and lemon groves, it gives you all the Italian feels! Sorrento is around an hour south of Naples and you can get here by car, train, or the ferry port from Naples. Sorrento is also a great choice for those looking to save some money on accommodations compared to Capri and Positano while being equally beautiful and safe.

One of the best things to do in Sorrento includes relaxing at one of the many beach clubs that look over the stunning blue Mediterranean Ocean. Sorrento is also known for their giant lemons, so visiting a lemon grove and drinking limoncello is a must. 

As you explore Sorrento, make sure to enjoy Piazza Torquato Tasso, Sorrento’s main square. Additionally, it is also a must to add a sunset at the Sorrento lift to your Sorrento itinerary which is just stunning!

While you can spend a ton of time in Sorrento since it is such a lively area with lots of food, many use Sorrento as an easy jumping-off point to nearby popular locations. Because Sorrento has a large ferry port, you can easily take a day trip to Carpi by ferry. The Amalfi Coast is also easily accessible from Sorrento with the famous Positano just a little over 30 minutes! You can choose to take a ferry, public bus, or the Sightseeing bus.

PRO TIP: If you choose the Sightseeing Bus, you can take it all the way down the Amalfi Coast to Revello, another one of our hidden gems in Italy.

18. Monopoli

Recommended by Lauren at Destination Travel

If you’re looking to discover hidden gems in Italy, look no further than Monopoli – a Baroque beauty situated in the south. This sleepy port town in Puglia boasts plenty of things to do, architecture to admire, and places to dine – it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Europe.

The top thing to do in Monopoli is to explore the Old Town. The white-washed, cobblestone streets are filled with never-ending photo opportunities and tiny cafes serving up strong Italian coffee – just what you need to fuel a day of sightseeing.

If you prefer your vacation a little bit more laid-back, then you’ll want to head to one of the many white sand beaches in the area for an afternoon of relaxation on the Adriatic coast. Cala Porta Vecchia is the most famous (and the best) beach in Monopoli; it’s a small cove with an idyllic stretch of sand and calm waters. The area’s stunning beaches are another reason that Monopoli is an unmissable Italian town.

Head to one of the restaurants that are located around Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi in the evening. Not only will you find some of the best eats in Monopoli here (La Dolce Vita serves up delicious bowls of pasta), but it’s also a prime people-watching spot as the piazza comes alive at night as the bars and restaurants fill with locals. This is the perfect way to round off your visit to this hidden Italian gem.

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Hidden Island Gems in Italy 🏖

19. Isola Favignana, Sicily

Recommended by my Italian friend, Alessandro!

Few hidden gems in Italy are as stunning as the Isola Favignana. This small island, located just off the coast of Sicily, is home to crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and centuries-old ruins.

Visitors can spend their days exploring the island’s dramatic coastline, sunbathing on its sandy beaches, or snorkeling in its clear waters. And with a number of restaurants and cafes serving delicious Sicilian cuisine, Isola Favignana is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some of Italy’s best food and drink.

PRO TIP: The best way to get around the island is with eBike. Nothing is more than 30 minutes away on a bike on this little gem of an island!

20. Isola Procida, Napoli

Recommended by Jolene at Wanderlust Storytellers

Procida is a charming town on a small island in southern Italy. It is full of color and culture, with scenic views over the sea that will take your breath away.

So what makes Procida so special? Well, the rich architecture that is wonderful and uniquely Italian can be seen in so many of Procida’s buildings. From the Santa Maria Delle Grazie with its yellow coat of paint to the pastel-colored houses that rise just above the Mediterranean ocean in the marina. Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo is a gorgeous Italian church with a decadent interior that is one of the best things to see. 

LOGISTICS: Getting to Procida is easy as you can hop on a ferry from the Bay of Naples and be there within 40 minutes. The ferry runs so frequently that there are nearly thirty ferry trips a day! 

Head into the heart and historic center of Procida island to Terra Murata. At the base of this ancient settlement, you’ll find Casale Vascello which is a large courtyard surrounded by terraced houses. These tall houses are brightly colored and are a stunning example of unique residential architecture! 

One of Procida’s cultural gems is the Palazzo D’Avalos. There is an archaeological museum, an art gallery, and a beautiful Mediterranean garden all on-site and the views over the distant bay of Naples, are also incredible. 

PRO TIP: If you are staying in Procida for a few days be sure to hop on over to the island of Ischia for a full day or half-day trip! It is a volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples. Be sure to make the most of your day trip by visiting the castle and the exotic gardens. The best place to head to Ischia is the Marantie beach hot springs, which have azure blue water that are mineral-rich waters that bubble up!

21. Cretto di Burri, Sicily 

Recommended by Katie KatieCafTravel.com 

In 1968 the Belice earthquake destroyed the small Sicilian village of Gibellina. The quake killed a record, at the time, 400 Italians, and left thousands more homeless. Fifteen years later, the Italian modern artist Alberto Burri took inspiration from the tragedy and sought to bring some solace to the region by erecting a mass memorial. 

The Cretto di Burri, also called the Cretto di Gibellina, means “crack of Gibellina” in Italian. Made of poured concrete 5ft high, the monument retraces the houses, streets, and alleyways that used to be in Gibellina. A permanent tomb for the town that once stood there. 

Because of the enormity of the project, Cretto di Burri wasn’t officially completed until 2015. Today it’s a masterpiece, looming large and somber over the valley. One of the largest permanent modern art installations in the world, the Cretto di Burri is a sight to behold.

LOGISTICS: Cretto di Burri is only a one-hour drive from Palermo, but because of the remote location of Gibellina, it can only be reached by car. 

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Why go out of my comfy way to see these gems? 

• To get that same feeling you got as a kid when you found a little secret hiding spot that seemed to be made only for you!
  
• For that adventurous spirit that made you Google “hidden gems in Italy” hoping for secret islands, villages stuck in the Middle Ages, mountain huts, cowbells in the distance, and a tall, dark and handsome man pronouncing your name with just the right Italian accent (or is that just me?!). 😳
  
• Because you’re tired of the same old shitty “Top 293 Places to Visit in Rome”, AND these hidden gems just might push you outside of your comfort zone and into the Italian wild!

FOR THE ROAD TRIP’er AT HEART: And for those who want to explore on your own, check out my 2 Week Road Trip through Southern Italy from Napoli to Sicily, which includes quite a few of these hidden gems!

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Do I need to Rent a Car in Italy?

There are a few regions and times when it’s worth renting a car in Italy.

• Mountain regions like the Dolomites in the northern region of Italy, where a few of these hidden gem towns are located. More on How to Get to the Dolomites and all about transportation in the mountains.
• Islands like Sicily and Sardinia where the public transport is not great or consistent.
• When you’re thinking of doing a week-long or longer road trip where the towns and stops are not accessible easily or directly by public transportation, like busses and trains.

This is Where I Check Prices for Rental Cars in Italy
▶️ DISCOVER CARS ◀️

Where is it NOT worth renting a car?

Big cities are terrible places to have a car because the public transportation (trains, metro and busses) is great, and parking and driving in big cities like Rome, Milan, Naples and Bari is really hard.

It’s also not worth having a car when you’re only in Italy for a short time, like a long weekend or a few days. Booking a day tour or private transport for the day can be less of a hassle compared to renting a car for short trips.

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FAQ: Hidden Gems in Italy

Where do Italians go on holiday?

So I went to my Italian friends and asked them this question. Hands down all of them mentioned little towns and road trips in the following places, and here’s why:

• Sardinia for the beautiful sandy beaches
• Tuscany for the wine and romance
• Basilicata for the mountains and culture
• Sicily to get away from the hustle and bustle of North Italy

What is the prettiest place in Italy?

Who is your favorite child? Jokes aside, while this is a ridiculously impossible question, I will nonetheless answer it with a bit of context, and from my experience and opinion.

When most people think of Italy, they envision rolling hills of vineyards, picturesque medieval villages, and bustling city streets full of pizza and Aperol spritzes. But there is another side to the country that is often overlooked. I think the prettiest place in Italy is the Italian Dolomites.

The Dolomites had my attention with the dramatic peaks, the insanely lush valleys, and the insanely blue glacial water lakes. Although the Dolomites are not as well-known globally (and I secretly hope they don’t become an international sensation), they are my favorite place in Italy.

Seconded only by the Island of Capri and Alberobello, because I think the Trulli houses are adorable.

What is the best time of year to visit Italy?

The months of May and September are the winners for me because the temperatures are warm and mild, the tourists are fewer, and the prices are not as high.

The summer months of June through August are peak season for all Europeans to travel because school is out for the kids. These months are also some of the hottest of the year, which makes me sweat just thinking about it. If I have to travel to Italy in the summer, I’d aim for the Dolomites in the North or the islands in the south!

What is the most visited city in Italy?

I had to look this up for accuracy, but it’s no surprise that Rome is the clear winner.

But while everyone knows about the Colosseum and the Vatican, there are plenty of hidden gems to be found in this historic city. From hidden churches and underground ruins to secret gardens and hidden courtyards, there’s a lot to explore beyond the obvious. You can spend a lifetime in Rome and still not know it!

What cities in Italy should I not miss?

There are quite a few on my list for various reasons, but here are my favorites:

1. Venice
2. Florence
3. Rome

Where is it NOT touristy in Italy?

Quite a few of the Italian hidden gems on this list are not touristy, but in general, the southern region of Basilicata and Puglia are less frequented by international travelers, so the only tourists you’ll see are the Italian tourists exploring their own country!

What should I avoid in Italy?

Driving in Rome and the TOURISTS! ❤️

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Final Thoughts: Hidden Gems in Italy

Sometimes it feels like there is no rock left unturned in the ever-popular Italy. But that’s not true. There is room and space to explore this beautiful, welcoming, and varied country for years to come – and there is room for you.

The best way to really find hidden gems is to stop at the small towns in between these 21 spots and just walk around, sip on an espresso out of a small plastic cup as you sit on the edge of the sidewalk like a true Italian, and just soak in the sun.

That is the Dolce Vita everyone is talking about. It’s not in the checklists or the methodical planning – although that helps. It’s in the food, the drink, and dropping your expectations of what a hidden gem is supposed to be in order to appreciate the reality of where you are!

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