17 Secret Places In Italy You Need to Explore

You may have come across some of the most well-known tourist spots in Italy. Rome, Venice, and Florence are famous spots that almost everyone has heard of. But there are so many more places in Italy that are exciting, interesting, and less crowded than the typical destinations. Check out these hidden gems in Italy and schedule a vacation soon!

Tivoli, Lazio

A one-hour train ride from Rome, Tivoli offers a peaceful retreat from city life. In Villa Gregoriana, visitors can take scenic hikes with waterfalls along the way and new passages to discover each time. After the tour, the village of Tivoli is a lovely place to have lunch and meander through stone streets.

Gargano National Park, Apulia

On the spur of Italy’s boot, you will find Gargano, filled with lush forests, peaceful beaches, and quaint villages. Due to its isolation, renting a car is the best way to explore the area. Its gorgeous rock formations and historic trabucchi make it perfect for all travelers.

Modena, Emilia Romagna

Modena is a small Italian city famous for its balsamic vinegar and luxury cars. Its rich history dates back to ancient times, and there are many historic landmarks and medieval streets to explore. Modena is also known for its delicious Italian cuisine.

Saturnia, Tuscany

Saturnia, known for its natural hot springs, has been enjoyed since the Roman Empire. The waters are said to have therapeutic properties. Situated three hours from Florence, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, traditional cuisine, and wine or enjoy the stunning views.

Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Two hours east of Venice, Trieste is a multicultural hotspot where Italian, Slovenian, Austrian, and Croatian traditions blend seamlessly. The beauty of its melting pot is evident through its architecture, food, and festivals. Trieste’s stunning coastline, historic cafes, and local cuisine make it a must-visit.

Olbia, Sardinia

Sardinia may not be as well-known as Sicily, but it has many hidden treasures that offer a unique perspective of Italy. Many Sardinians live to be over 100 years old, partly due to their relaxed and simple way of life. For those planning on visiting, Olbia is a quaint resort town located on the Costa Smeralda, which is home to Sardinia’s best beaches.

Spello, Umbria

This charming hilltop town offers an authentic Italian experience with its old-world architecture, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Visitors can explore the region, famous for its exceptional wine, olive oil, and chocolate, with Assisi and Perugia nearby. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy a relaxed pace of life.

Paestum, Campania

It is surprising to know that some of the remarkable Greek ruins are located in Italy. This world heritage site is an hour and a half away from Naples and just 30 minutes from Salerno. It features three ancient Greek temples from ancient times, showcasing the region’s rich cultural history.

Ragusa, Sicily

Ragusa is a town in the southern Sicilian province of Noto. Despite its stunning Sicilian baroque architecture, which transforms it into an outdoor museum, it is frequently disregarded. However, Ragusa’s charm and beauty have not gone unnoticed, as it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Procida Island, Campania

Discover a hidden gem in the Bay of Naples. This island offers vibrant colors and black sand beaches, making it a must-visit destination. Despite its smaller size, there are still plenty of things to do, including exploring picturesque villages and hiking scenic trails.

Lago Maggiore, Lombardy

The Lombardy region’s lesser-known Lago Maggiore neighbors Lake Como, but it feels completely different. Lago Maggiore is known for its botanical gardens and rugged landscapes. Staying in towns like Stresa allows day trips to the Borromean Islands of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Trentino

Winter sports enthusiasts will love Cortina, host of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Dolomites are perfect for connecting with nature and exploring the world’s most extensive ski trek. Cortina is also known for its charming town center with cozy cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Matera

Elected the 2019 European Capital of Culture, Matera is one of Italy’s best-hidden gems. This city has a rich history and has been inhabited for thousands of years. Overlooking the Gravina River canyon, this ancient settlement is renowned for antique houses excavated in the limestone rock and known as The Sassi.

Langhe

This hilly area is ideal for those eager to see the Toscana wine region without crowds of tourists ruining every second of the trip. Located in the northern Piemonte region, The Langhe offers enchanted vineyards for the perfect Instagram pic and plenty of traditional little restaurants where you can try local wine with some delicious cheese.

Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio is perched on a hill not to far from Rome. Also known as “The Dying City”, the incredible town is in constant threat of erosion, making it a place you should visit sooner rather than later. You want to see this incredible place before it completely crumbles! Reachable only by a pedestrian bridge, you will adore the maze of stone houses and panoramic valley views of this incredible Italian town.

Tropea

Tropea, Italy, is a picture-perfect Italian destination that not many people know about! Perched high on cliffs overlooking the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, this gem of a town offers stunning views and a vibe that’s wonderfully laid-back. With charming, narrow streets, beautiful beaches, and fewer tourists than other famous beach towns, Tropea is the perfect escape for those looking to relax and soak up authentic Italian culture. You will also get to witness some of the most amazing sunsets of your life!

Vernazza

Vernazza is a charming little town on the Italian coast, perfect for anyone who loves colorful houses and stunning seaside views. It is full of cliffside trails and turquoise waters that are just begging to be photographed. The food scene is amazing, too, with plenty of fresh seafood, pasta, and local wine. There are also plenty of cozy beaches and a laid-back feel which make it the ideal spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of Italy!

Italy has much to offer beyond its famous destinations, and it would be a shame not to explore these hidden gems. Venturing off the beaten path and visiting lesser-known places is a chance to experience the country more authentically and peacefully.