Italy is known for its stunning cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, but the country is also home to numerous charming towns and cities off the beaten track. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into authentic Italian culture, history, and picturesque landscapes. If you're planning a trip to Italy off the beaten path and want to avoid the crowds, we have just the thing for you. We've put together a selection of Italy's best off the beaten track destinations, far from crowds and tourist hotspots. Check our our guide to the best non-touristy towns and cities in Italy planning your next trip!
Castelsardo, Sardinia
Our first hidden gem in Italy is situated in the province of Sassari, Sardinia. The enchanting medieval village of Castelsardo finds itself nestled amidst the Gulf of Asinara. This captivating town is primarily renowned for its well-preserved castle, gracefully situated on a scenic rocky promontory, commanding breathtaking views of the sea. However, Castelsardo offers more than just its splendid fortress. The area is also blessed with a variety of exquisite sandy beaches, ensuring that this delightful village caters to the diverse interests and preferences of every visitor.
Founded by a Genovese family during the 12th century, the village of Castelsardo is one of Italy’s hidden gems which offers an ancient and authentic insight into the medieval side of the island of Sardinia. A highlight of any trip to the area also involves trying out the local food scene, where you will be blown away by the Sardinian cuisine and the panoramic views that many of the restaurants in the town boast. Don’t miss the one of the village’s most traditional dishes featuring lobster, as well as the Castellanese fish soup.
Ischia, Campania
Ischia, nestled in the Gulf of Naples, serves as the sister island to Capri, offering a more unassuming and genuine ambiance, free from the VIP status and bustling crowds. Notably, Ischia's volcanic nature grants it recognition for its rejuvenating thermal baths, providing an ideal opportunity to unwind and find solace away from the throngs of tourists, especially during the summer months. Make a point of exploring the island's iconic Aragonese castle, and don't forget to indulge in the tranquil atmosphere at one of Ischia's local bars.
However, this is not all that Ischia has to offer, and for a true off-the-beaten-track experience in Italy, head to the southern coast of the island where you’re in for a treat with the lazy beaches of Sant’Angelo, as well as nearby forests and vineyards.
Narni, Umbria
Most tourists who head to the Umbria region of Italy flock to Assisi which is famous for its cathedral dedicated to Saint Francis. However, for an equally authentic Italian experience, we recommend a trip to the village of Narni which is a real hidden gem in the province of Terni and virtually tourist-free.
Narni is located on a hilltop and is home to stunning views overlooking the Italian countryside, especially beautiful (and romantic) at sunset. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the town's Civic Museum, which houses magnificent Italian art pieces. Additionally, take leisurely strolls along the enchanting streets of the village, where notable landmarks such as the Duomo of San Giovenale, Palazzo dei Priori, and Palazzo del Podestà await.
These palaces, dating back to the 14th century, add a touch of historical grandeur to the town. And of course, be sure to savour the local cuisine. We highly recommend trying the pasta manfrigoli, accompanied by pecorino cheese, fava beans, and guanciale—an Italian cured pork delicacy made from the pig's cheek.
Syracuse, Sicily
Just because these destinations are off the beaten track, this doesn't mean that you have to miss out on visiting magical places in Italy. Syracuse is a historic city on the Italian island of Sicily and is sure to delight you with its historical charm. Founded by the Greeks around 734 B.C., the main attraction of this charming town is the historical city centre of Syracuse with its maze of narrow streets, Greek, Roman, Arabic architecture, Baroque churches, and ancient palazzi. An evening walk through the winding streets is a must, when you’ll be able to enjoy sunset over the Mediterranean and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
The city is also home to an impressive Greek theatre and a Roman arena once used for gladiator fights, while arguably the most visited attraction in Syracuse is an impressive botanic garden which features a range of caves where limestone was once extracted to build the city. If all of this wasn’t enough, make sure to get a real taste of local life by heading to the local gastronomy scene to try out the fresh fish and delicious appetisers.
Matera, Basilicata
Matera has been referred to as “the most spectacular city in Italy” and it’s easy to see why. Not only this, in 2022, Matera was also named the most welcoming city on earth, meaning it's well worth a trip before it becomes a tourist hotspot. This city is one of the real hidden gems in southern Italy and has transformed itself from a place where poverty and disease were rife, to a unique town with a lot to offer visitors. Located in a remote corner of southern Italy in the small region Basilicata, Matera isn’t the easiest place to get to in Italy and probably for this reason, the town has managed to remain pretty unknown, especially when it comes to foreign tourism.
Matera is all about caves and if you visit this incredible town, you will spend a lot of time in them, from dining, maybe even to sleeping in one! This prehistoric "underground" stone village was named a UNESCO world heritage site in 1993 and is a real treat, thanks to its beautiful stone churches, friendly locals and delicious local food, all best discovered by roaming through the village’s charming streets and courtyards.
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