These are the most amazing hidden gems in Italy. The most unique places off the beaten path all the way from Varenna, Lake Como in the North to Sorrento in the South to La Caprera in the Islands. Travel Italy like a pro!
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Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and it is known for its amazing food like pasta and pizza. Italy is also known for its wonderful landmarks like The Colosseum in Rome, The Vatican in Vatican City, Ponte Vecchio in Florence, and many more. Today you will learn about all the best-hidden gems in Italy.
This post will show you all the amazing hidden gems in Italy ranging from the snow-covered mountain tops, to the clearest water beaches along the coast, to the beautiful picturesque lakes, endless vineyards, and amazing architecture.
Learn about the most unique places to visit in Italy all the way from Lake Orta, and Verona in the North of Italy to Perugia in Central Italy, to Ravello, Amalfi Coast, and Monopoli in the South of Italy to Sicily In the Islands of Italy.
This post is all about the best-hidden gems in Italy.
Certaldo is a small town in Tuscany, Italy. It is located very close to Florence, Italy. This beautiful medieval town is filled with lots of old buildings, cobblestone streets, hills, and history. You can do a guided walking tour to get the most authentic experience of Certaldo. A must-see landmark in Certaldo is the Palazzo Pretorio Museum which is where you will find all the details and history of the small town explained. This is an absolute must-see hidden gem of Italy.
A good place to stay in Certaldo, Italy is The Hotel Certaldo which includes breakfast and is located right in the center of the town. There is also a beautiful pool for guests to use and also has a terrace and fitness center. The Hotel Certlado is located within walking distance of the train station.
This part of Italy is located in a beautiful mountain range with mesmerizing lakes located near Tarvisio, Italy. Lago Di Fusine is made of two glacial lakes that are surrounded by snow-covered mountains. This beautiful mountain range is located in the Julian Alps which goes all the way from Italy to Slovenia. Laghi Di Fusines is also very close to where the Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian borders connect.
A great option would be to do a day tour. And the best way to explore this amazing scenery is by foot. The are a couple of trails that are available. One is around the Lago Di Fusine Inferiore and the other is around the Lago Di Fusine Superiore. Both of these can be done within a few hours. There are also some restaurants, bars, and cafes located around the lakes where you can really stop and take in the picturesque views.
A great place to stay when visiting the lakes is Hotel Rosengarten which is located in Tarvisio, Italy. This hotel includes breakfast and has a spa, a bar, and also skiing options.
Burano, Italy is known for its colorful houses, canals, and lacemaking. It is located just north of Venice near Torcello. This is definitely one of the amazing hidden gems of Italy. Burano could be a day trip from Venice since it is so close and is a very small island. Some unique attractions in Burano are the Burano lacemaking museum, the fresh seafood markets, and the leaning tower of Burano which is surrounded by beautiful vibrant colorful houses. This little island in the north of Italy is one of the best places in Italy to get some amazing unique photos.
A great place to stay when visiting Burano is the Casa Burano Experience By Venissa. This is particularly a top pick for couples. It is located in a great location in Burano, 8km from Venice, and 6km from the Marco Polo Airport in Venice.
Lake Orta is located about an hour from Milan, west of Lake Maggiore, at the bottom of the Swiss Alps, and near the Swiss border. This beautiful lake is not quite as known as Lake Como or Lake Maggiore which is why it is a unique hidden gem of Italy. Come here to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery without the millions of tourists crowding the lake.
Lake Orta also has an island called Isola San Giulio. Here you will see the Romanesque Basilica which is the main attraction of the island. The Piazza Motta is the town’s main square where you will find cute cafes, restaurants, and antique shops. The island is also filled with Renaissance and Baroque architecture for those who are interested in the more art/ historic part of the island.
Hotel Battle Of Britain is located on a hilltop right next to the Lake and offers the most stunning panoramic views of Lake Orta. This casual hotel will give you the true experience of a mountain/ lake lifestyle in Italy.
Off the beaten path in Italy, you will find the Aosta Valley which is a mountain region that is located near the Switzerland and France borders. This valley is known for its amazing views of the snow-capped mountaintops and beautiful castles. The Aosta Valley has some of the tallest mountains in Europe including Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa.
Aosta Valley is the place for you if you love nature and the outdoors. There are miles and miles of hiking trails, and other amenities like fishing canoeing, kayaking, biking, and swimming in the summer. And in the winter there is ice-climbing, skating, dog sledding, and skiing. So many great things to do all year round.
La Belle Epoque is a hotel located right in Aosta. It is very close to the city center and it also has an on-site restaurant which is super convenient.
The town of Varenna is located right on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Italy. Varenna is a must-see place if you are visiting Milan or Bellagio with its breathtaking views, and colorful buildings. This stunning little town also has beautiful villas, amazing restaurants, and luxurious beaches. There is also a ferry that can take you to Lake Como’s more recognized towns such as Bellagio, Tremezzina, and Menaggio. If you are looking to visit Lake Como on a budget and without all the tourists then Varenna is the perfect place for a quiet and inexpensive night’s stay!
This apartment Near Villa Monastero and Castello di Vezio is a great place to stay to get the truly authentic experience of Varenna, Lake Como. This amazing property has a terrace where you can enjoy the mountain and lake views and is located in a perfect spot with access to hiking trails.
Verona, Italy is a medieval old town that is famous for the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet play with the residence of the balcony overlooking a small courtyard. The Piazza Bra is one of the city’s squares where you can see gardens, and historical landmarks, and enjoy cafes. The Piazza delle Erbe is the other main square that has shopping and more terraces and cafes. Walk the Via Mazzini which is the marble street that connects the two main piazzas.
Other major attractions in Verona are the Verona Arena which is a huge amphitheater that still has shows at night and during the day you can explore the architecture for a small fee. Also, check out the Ponte Pietra which is a beautiful bridge across Verona. The Agiage River has stunning views of the Ponte Pietra bridge. And Lamberti’s Tower to see the best panoramic views of Verona.
There are a few options for accommodations in Verona. One is the Palazzo di Giulietta – Royal Welcome which is a guest house that is within walking distance from the city center and the Verona Arena. Another great accommodation option is the Verona Journeys Apartment which is also located in the city center.
Camogli, Italy is a fishing village that is located near Portofino and about an hour’s drive from Cinque Terre. This stunning village sits on hills along the sea with great authentic restaurants, bars, and cafes. Camogli Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria which is why it is one of the best-hidden gems in Italy. Great place to sit, relax, and enjoy the sun and beach with great food!
The Blue Windows Apartment is one of the best places to stay in Camogli. This apartment is located right on the beach. Doesn’t get any better than that.
Trento is a little town located in northern Italy near the Adige River. This town offers beautiful views of the Dolomite Mountains. It also has a huge castle called the Castello del Buonconsiglio. This is the largest and most important castle in the region. It has a museum that lets you explore the town’s history and artifacts. You could also ride The Funivia Trento-Sardagna cable car which offers an amazing view of Trento.
Hotel Villa Madruzzo is the best hotel to stay in while in Trento. It is located very close to the city center and also has breakfast included. This hotel offers many amenities for guests and the staff can help you with transportation, tours, passes for attractions, dining options, and much more.
Spello is an ancient town in Italy in the province of Perugia. This lovely town is filled with colorful flowers lining the cobblestone streets. If you enjoy photography then this is the perfect place for you with all the beautiful architecture and flowers. Other great things to do are visit the church Collegiata di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Pinacoteca Civica di Appello art gallery.
A great place to stay while in Spello is the Hotel Palazzo Bocci which is located right in the city center. This particular hotel is so amazing because guests can enjoy a painting by Benvenuto Cripoldi and several other masterpieces by 19th-century artists.
Perugia, Italy is the capital of the Umbria region, also located close to Florence and Rome. It is a stunning city and is well known for its medieval architecture and history. When visiting be sure to check out the Piazza IV Novembre which is the city’s main square. This city also had a whole little underground area with streets that are from the 16th century.
Visit the National Gallery of Umbria and see a wonderful collection of paintings from Umbrian artists. A must-see while here is the Corso Vannucci which is a street filled with cafes, bars, shopping, entertainment, and more. Also, a fun fact about Perugia, is that it is known for its chocolate. Stop by the chocolate factory to see the whole chocolate-making process.
Stay at the Times Suites Bed and Breakfast. This bed and breakfast is located near the Corso Vannucci, Piazza IV Novembre, and the train station.
Alberobello, Puglia is located in southern Italy and is known for its trulli houses. Trulli houses are whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. Alberobello is also a UNESCO Worl Heritage Site as of 1996 because of its unique trulli houses.
When in Alberobello you have to stay in one of these unique trulli houses. The Trulli Antichi Mestieri is a bed and breakfast right in the city and is also a trulli house that allows tourists to get the whole experience of the unique city.
Ravello, Italy is located near Positano and Capri and is also a city along a hill. It is known for its stunning terrace gardens, villas, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Ravello is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely one of the best-hidden gems in Italy. Another must-see while in Ravello is the Villa Rufolo, which has the best gardens in all of Amalfi, beautiful fountains, and one of the most reputable music festivals in the world, the Ravello Music Festival.
The La Dolce Vita Ravello is a luxury apartment that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ravello and it also has its own private terrace. Another more budget-friendly option for accommodation would be the Casa Vacanze Vittoria hotel/ apartment which is also in a great location with great views.
Sorrento is a beautiful city located in southern Italy. It has lots of beach clubs and bars that have great views of the Mediterranean. Sorrento is also known for its citrus fruits and large amounts of huge lemons. You will find lemon groves and lemon trees all along the buildings. It’s absolutely beautiful to see. Because of the large number of lemons, Sorrento is famous for its limoncello liqueur which is known all over the world.
While here a great place to stay is the Residence Le Terrazze Hotel which has amazing views of Sorrento, the Gulf of Naples, and Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii from its panoramic terrace views.
Monopoli is a small town located on the Adriatic Sea in the south of Italy. Monopoli’s Old Town is filled with churches, beautiful architecture, bars, and cafes. Check out the Castello di Carlo which is a castle that offers fantastic views of the sea. Monopoli is also known for its great beaches along the shoreline, the crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming.
The Masseria I Raffi Bed and Breakfast is a great place to stay while in Monopoli. Although it is not right along the coast it gives relaxing vibes with gardens all around.
Paestum was a major Greek city. It is home to some of the best-preserved Greek Temples. The Cilento Coast is home to beautiful mountain ranges and ruins. Paestum is also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A fun fact about Paestum and the Cilento Coast is that this region of Italy produces the best buffalo mozzarella cheese. Another great hidden gem of Italy.
The Chalet Vista Capri is a great place to stay while visiting Paestum and the Cilento Coast. This chalet has a private pool, gardens, and a fully equipped kitchen for your convenience.
Tropea is a small beach town located on the east coast of Calabria. It is built on cliff sides and its also known for its stunning beaches which is why it is a great summer destination. While in Tropea make sure to visit the sanctuary Santa Maria Dell’Isola di Tropea, this church is the greatest symbol of Tropea and Calabria. Enjoy the views of the city and the sea from the Belvedere Piazza del Cannone. Also, make sure to enjoy the wonderful cuisine and explore the Old Town.
Stay at the Hotel Colomba D’Oro while in Tropea. This modern hotel is in a great area and very close to the beach. Also includes breakfast and offers bike hire at the hotel for exploring the city on a bike tour.
Caprera is an island that is part of the Mediterranean Archipelago off the coast of Sardinia, Italy. This island is a wildlife sanctuary and is classified as a natural reserve, and some places on the island as classified as top environmental protection. While in Caprera be sure to check out the Garibaldi House Museum, the Geo-Mineralogical Museum, and the Museum of the Sea and Maritime Traditions.
Stay at the La Villa al Piras in La Maddalena, Italy. This amazing villa has the perfect view of Caprera and access to the beautiful blue sea. This villa has 6 bedrooms opening onto a terrace and is perfect for groups of friends traveling together. AHR Leonis Residence La Maddalena is another great studio apartment to stay at while visiting Caprera, it is in a great location.
Bosa is a village in Sardinia, Italy, This beautiful village is filled with so many bright, vibrant, colorful buildings making the landscape look like a rainbow in a way. It is home to the Malaspona Castle and from there it has amazing views of the village. This island also has some beautiful churches like The Cathedral of Bosa, The Sant’ Antonio Abate Church, and The San Pietro Extra Muros Church. Bosa also hosts some unique festivals for its locals and tourists, and if you happen to be visiting during one definitely check it out.
Bosa has a couple of nice accommodation options like the Resort Isola Rossa which is a hotel very close to the beach and also has a pool and a bar. Another great place to stay is the Palazzo Pischedda Hotel which has great views of the Temo River and also has an authentic Sardinian restaurant and cute boutique on location.
Procida is located off the coast of Naples in southern Italy. The island is between Cape Miseno and the island of Ischia. Procida is a very small island and it makes for a perfect day trip from Naples. While here visit the Terra Murata which is the historical and cultural center of Procida. One of the best places to take pictures of the island is from the Panoramica sulla Corricella viewpoint.
Since Procida is best when visiting on a day trip. I recommend getting accommodations in Naples, Italy. The Vista Napoli Residence by Casa Napoletana is a new apartment in Naples that offers terraces with views of the city and is close to transportation and dining places as well.
Isola Favignana is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, botanical gardens, and historical ruins. Favignana is a popular place for locals to come and relax on the beaches. Favignana also belongs to the Egodi Archipelago which is located off the west coast of Sicily, Italy. This beautiful island has lots of hiking and bike trails and great food and drinks to enjoy all along the beaches. You could also rent boats, go scuba diving, explore the historic caves, and so much more.
Stay at the La Casa del Limoneto Bed and Breakfast which is located in a great location and has amazing views of the gardens off the terrace.
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