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Able to discover Italy past the vacationer hotspots? I’m right here to share 10 of essentially the most stunning cities in Italy which are ready to be explored.
Have you ever ever ventured past the well-trodden paths of Italy to find its secret spots? I’ve had the possibility to wander via some lesser-known cities throughout the nation, and I’ve acquired to say, they’re critically beautiful. This information is all in regards to the prettiest cities in Italy that you just’ve by no means heard of.
You already know the same old suspects like Rome and Venice, proper? Properly, let me introduce you to locations like Bobbio and Ascoli Piceno. These cities are the actual deal—unspoiled, charming, and simply as stunning as the large names. I’m excited to indicate you why these locations made such an impression on me.
Why belief my picks? As a result of I’ve truly hung out there, mingling with locals, having fun with the views, and absorbing the environment.
Let’s dive into these attractive cities which have stayed with me lengthy after my visits. Prepared to find some hidden gems in Italy?
Overview of Italy’s most stunning cities
Italy is stacked with well-known spots, however there’s a complete different world past locations like Rome and Venice. Should you’re interested in the place else to discover, right here’s a fast information on what every of those lesser-known gems is greatest for:
- Greatest for foodies: Alberobello
- Greatest for seaside lovers: Tropea
- Greatest for artwork and tradition: Orvieto
- Greatest for nature: Cividale del Friuli
Wanting to get began? Let’s kick off with Ascoli Piceno, the place historic meets vigorous in essentially the most enchanting approach.
1. Ascoli Piceno
Let’s speak about Ascoli Piceno. It’s a city that completely deserves extra limelight. Tucked away in Marche, about 200 km from Rome, this place caught my consideration the primary time I visited, and I feel you’ll see why.
First off, the city is beautiful, with structure that makes you’re feeling such as you’ve stepped again in time. The primary sq., Piazza del Popolo, is among the most elegant I’ve seen in Italy. It presents stunning buildings and cafés the place you’ll be able to sit, have a espresso, and watch the world go by.
Then there’s the meals. Oh, the olives! Ascoli is known for its olive ascolane—fried olives with meat. Belief me, they’re a game-changer. Seize some at a neighborhood bar and thank me later.
Should you’re up for a little bit of tradition, take a look at the museums and theaters. The city isn’t overwhelming, nevertheless it’s filled with historical past and attraction. It’s straightforward to stroll round, so you’ll be able to discover at your individual tempo with out lacking out on something.
So, should you’re plotting an Italian getaway, undoubtedly pencil in Ascoli Piceno. It’s a city that gives a real slice of Italian life, with out the same old crowds. Let’s simply say, it’s a spot that can stick with you.
2. Matera
Subsequent on our checklist of essentially the most stunning cities in Italy is Matera. This city is one thing else—actually, it seems like stepping onto one other planet with its historical cave dwellings carved into limestone.
Matera is known for these caves, referred to as “Sassi.” They’re a complete community of houses, church buildings, and storerooms hewn proper out of rock, and wandering via them is like strolling via historical past. The vibe is surreal, and it’s clear why filmmakers typically select Matera as a backdrop for biblical and historic scenes.
The city itself perches on a rugged outcrop, overlooking a ravine, which implies the views are spectacular. You’ll wish to maintain your digicam prepared always. And because the solar units, the stone of the buildings catches the sunshine and glows—it’s magical.
Whilst you’re there, seize a seat at a neighborhood trattoria. Matera’s bread, Pane di Matera, is one thing to put in writing residence about. It’s dense, crusty, and excellent with only a drizzle of olive oil.
The closest main metropolis to Matera is Bari. It takes round 45 minutes to drive from Bari Airport to Matera, so it’s very conveniently situated should you’re searching for a getaway close to Puglia.
3. Alberobello
Alberobello is a must-see! This city is like one thing from a fairy story with its trulli—these white, cone-roofed homes that seem like they are out of a storybook.
What makes Alberobello stand out is how these distinctive buildings cluster collectively, creating a fascinating and virtually mystical environment. Strolling via the slim streets lined with trulli, you’ll be able to’t assist however really feel a way of marvel. It’s not each day you get to discover a spot that appears like this!
Should you go to, you’ve acquired to take a look at the native outlets nestled inside among the trulli. They promote all the pieces from handcrafted souvenirs to native produce. It couldn’t be simpler to take a bit of Alberobello residence with you. Plus, the locals are simply as charming because the surroundings—at all times prepared with a smile and a narrative.
In search of a city that gives each a visible delight and a heat welcome? Alberobello is the spot. Belief me, it’s one of many coolest locations I’ve visited in Europe.
4. Orvieto
One of many coolest cities in Italy, Orvieto is totally beautiful. It’s constructed on a volcanic plateau, supplying you with this epic, sky-high view of the encircling countryside. The vibe right here is simply as elevated because the setting.
The primary attraction? The Duomo in Orvieto. It’s this large, stunning cathedral with a facade that’s decked out in mosaics that catch the sunshine excellent. Seriously, it’ll seize your consideration from the second you see it. Inside, it’s simply as spectacular, with frescoes that wrap round you and pull you into their tales.
Apart from the large church, the city itself is tremendous charming. Simply strolling the streets, you’ll discover cool little outlets and locations to seize a chunk or a drink. Undoubtedly strive the Orvieto Classico wine—it’s a neighborhood favourite for a motive. Refreshing, with a touch of historical past in each sip.
Orvieto is genuinely a type of locations that feels a bit magical, like a step out of time however nonetheless vigorous. It’s splendid for anybody wanting to take in some historical past with out the same old crowds.
5. Tropea
Tropea, tucked alongside the Calabrian coast, is a gem you received’t wish to miss. It’s famed for its sheer cliffs that drop proper into turquoise seas and among the greatest seashores in Italy.
What makes Tropea particular isn’t simply its beautiful seaside location, but in addition its previous city attraction. The streets brim with historic buildings that appear to whisper tales of the previous. Whilst you’re wandering these streets, make your strategy to the Norman Cathedral. It’s a spot that’s as stunning as it’s wealthy in historical past.
You possibly can’t go away Tropea with out tasting their candy crimson onions, celebrated throughout Italy for his or her distinctive taste. They’re excellent whether or not you’re cooking or simply including them contemporary right into a salad.
Tropea is conveniently situated. It’s about an hour’s drive from Lamezia Terme, the closest main metropolis and transport hub. This makes it simply accessible for a weekend getaway or perhaps a day journey should you’re staying within the area.
6. Cividale del Friuli
Have you ever ever heard of Cividale del Friuli? It’s this quaint little city within the northeast of Italy, proper close to the Slovenian border. Belief me, it’s a spot that may simply shock you with its fascinating historical past and distinctive cultural mix.
Cividale has medieval attraction, particularly the Satan’s Bridge—yep, that’s the actual identify, and it’s as dramatic because it sounds, arching boldly over a rocky gorge. It’s an ideal spot for some images or simply to soak within the view.
The city additionally has a exceptional Lombard Temple, one of the vital essential examples of early medieval structure in Italy. It’s fairly a sight and provides you an actual sense of the city’s historic depth.
Strolling round Cividale, you’ll really feel a mixture of Italian and Slavic influences, not simply within the structure but in addition within the native meals and festivals. It’s a beautiful place to discover should you get pleasure from diving into historical past and experiencing a spot that’s a bit off the normal vacationer path.
7. Sulmona
Should you’re trying to find non-touristy cities in Italy, Sulmona ought to undoubtedly be in your radar. Situated within the coronary heart of the Abruzzo area, this city is somewhat slice of treasure.
Sulmona might be greatest recognized for its colourful confetti—these sugared almonds which are a staple at Italian celebrations—however there’s a lot extra to it. The city offers beautiful surroundings of the Apennine Mountains. It’s excellent for some breathtaking images or only a peaceable time out in nature.
One among my favourite locations to go to in Sulmona is the Piazza Garibaldi. It’s a spacious sq. that hosts a vigorous market twice every week. It’s a implausible place to mingle with locals, seize some contemporary native produce, and actually really feel the heartbeat of the city.
Plus, Sulmona’s historical past is on full show with stunning medieval and Renaissance buildings dotted round. It’s quiet, charming, and presents a glimpse into the on a regular basis lifetime of a typical Italian city, minus the crowds you’d discover in additional in style locations.
8. Savoca
Seeking to discover a spot with a little bit of cinematic fame? Savoca is your spot. Ever seen these iconic scenes from The Godfather? Many had been filmed proper right here on this charming village within the hills of Sicily.
Strolling via Savoca, it seems like time stands nonetheless. The slim, winding streets and the previous, weathered buildings are filled with character. Be certain that to cease by Bar Vitelli, which nonetheless seems to be simply because it did within the motion pictures. It’s an ideal place for sipping a espresso and soaking within the environment.
What’s actually cool about Savoca is its quiet, virtually mystical vibe. It’s not overrun with vacationers, which implies you’ll be able to get pleasure from a stroll with out the hustle and bustle. The views from the village are spectacular, looking over the valleys and towards the ocean.
Savoca is conveniently situated about 35 kilometers away from Messina, certainly one of Sicily’s largest cities. This makes it a straightforward day journey should you’re staying in Messina and even from Taormina, which is even nearer at nearly 25 kilometers away.
The drive itself is kind of scenic, winding via the hills and providing beautiful views of the Sicilian panorama. It’s certainly one of Italy’s most livable locations, fingers down.
9. Bobbio
Let me inform you about Bobbio, a small city that actually deserves a spot in your journey checklist. Located within the Trebbia Valley, Bobbio is picturesque with its medieval bridge, the Ponte Gobbo, often known as the Satan’s Bridge. It’s a unusual, uneven stone bridge that stretches throughout the Trebbia River and makes for some implausible images.
Bobbio is very historic, with an previous abbey that dates again to the 600s. The city itself seems like a residing museum, the place you’ll be able to wander via slim streets lined with historical buildings and actually soak within the environment.
What’s actually nice about Bobbio is that it’s calm and peaceable, removed from the hustle of larger vacationer spots. It’s a spot the place you’ll be able to decelerate, get pleasure from a leisurely lunch, and simply calm down by the riverside.
Bobbio is well-positioned for a go to should you’re exploring Northern Italy. It’s situated about 70 kilometers southeast of Piacenza, which makes it simply accessible for a day journey. Should you’re coming from Milan, it’s a couple of 2-hour drive, round 110 kilometers away.
10. Pitigliano
Final up on our checklist of Italy’s most stunning cities is Pitigliano. It’s this unimaginable place that appears prefer it’s straight out of a fantasy e book, constructed proper right into a cliffside. The whole city is on a volcanic stone, giving it a putting look you received’t neglect.
Pitigliano has this cool, old-world vibe with its deep historical past and slim streets. It’s recognized for its Jewish heritage too, which is fairly distinctive in Italy. There’s an previous synagogue that’s undoubtedly price a peek.
The city isn’t overrun by vacationers, which is a big plus. You possibly can simply wander round, benefit from the views from the cliff, and catch a sundown that lights up the valley—it’s unreal.
Pitigliano is in southern Tuscany, not too removed from the extra bustling areas. It’s a couple of 50-minute drive from Grosseto, which is the closest massive metropolis. And should you’re coming from Rome, it’s slightly below two hours away by automobile—excellent for a day journey or a quiet weekend away.
Incessantly requested questions (FAQs) in regards to the Italy’s prettiest cities & cities
Planning a visit to Italy? Our FAQs have gotten you lined! Study all the pieces it is advisable to know in regards to the most stunning locations in Italy.
What’s the most picturesque city in Italy?
Manarola would possibly simply steal the title of essentially the most picturesque city in Italy. It’s one of many Cinque Terre villages, well-known for its vibrant, colourful homes perched alongside the rugged shoreline.
What’s the least touristy place in Italy?
Basilicata is unknown for guests. It’s one of many least touristy locations in Italy. This area presents a mix of lovely landscapes, historical cities like Matera, and miles of unspoiled seashores, offering a glimpse of Italy away from the crowds.
What’s the most underrated metropolis in Italy?
Lecce is unquestionably certainly one of Italy’s most underrated cities. Situated within the Puglia area, it’s the “Florence of the South” due to its baroque structure. Lecce has a wealthy historical past, superb meals, and vibrant tradition, but it’s typically overshadowed by extra well-known Italian cities.
What’s the least visited metropolis in Italy?
Cremona may be one of many least visited cities in Italy, but it’s filled with attraction and historical past. It’s notably famous for its violin-making heritage.
