Few countries hold as dear a place in the hearts of travelers the world over as Italy. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the cobblestone streets of Rome, this country offers exciting cultural and historical experiences that have enamored visitors throughout the centuries. But therein lies the problem: many of Italy’s key destinations have become a bit too popular.
Although Florence, Rome, and Venice occupy many itineraries, Italy is full of many lesser-known destinations that both inspire and amaze visitors with their profound beauty. Brimming with fantastic food, marvelous architecture, and enriching cultural experiences, these hidden gems provide much of the same charm as Italy’s more popular destinations without the overcrowding that has become endemic in many of the country’s more visited spots.
Let’s take a look at our picks for Italy’s best lesser-known destinations and what they offer visitors looking to experience the joys of one of the most beautiful countries in the world!
Verona: Romance Beyond Romeo and Juliet
Bronze statue of Juliet and balcony by Juliet house, Verona
Verona has long stood as one of Italy’s most romantic destinations. Rightfully known as the City of Lovers, Verona features cobblestone streets, celestial gardens, and historic architecture. Plus, it served as the setting for William Shakespeare’s most famous love story, Romeo and Juliet.
Visitors hoping to have their own romantic experience in Verona have plenty of options as they wind their way through the city’s elegant streets. Among the most popular spots to visit in Verona is the Piazza delle Erbe, a historic square studded with beautiful architecture. Also home to one of the city’s best open-air markets, the Piazza delle Erbe is a great place to try some of Verona’s signature dishes, such as Amarone risotto, a rice dish made with Amarone wine and Parmesan cheese.
Guests of Verona who want to follow in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet should also visit Casa di Giulietta, a 14th-century palace and museum that may or may not have served as Shakespeare’s inspiration for Juliet’s house.
Bologna: Italy’s Food Capital
Fontana del Nettuno, Bologna
Food paradises don’t get any better than Bologna, Italy’s undisputed food capital. Bolognese cuisine is marked by its incredible variety. While you’re sure to find plenty of pasta dishes, Bologna’s signature foods also include Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and heaping plates of cold cuts. The city’s reputation as a haven for food lovers has earned it the nickname “La Grassa,” which translates to “The Fat.”
Those on a food tour of Bologna will first want to try a plate of tortellini in brodo, the city’s signature pasta dish. Brodo is Bologna’s most famous dish, and features tortellini stuffed with prosciutto ham, pork loin, mortadella sausage, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese. The city even holds a tortellini festival each fall to spotlight some of Bologna’s best chefs and crown a winner for the tastiest entry.
Other foods visitors to Bologna should be on the lookout for include lasagna verde and Prosciutto di Parma, an amazing cured meat typically served on a sandwich or on pizza, the city’s best comfort food. Be sure to save room for a bowl of Zuppa Inglese, a rich dessert made of three layers of custard and sponge cake.
Padua: A City of Art and Science
Prato della Valle, Padua
Padua has long been heralded as one of Italy’s beacons of the arts and sciences. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the city was a beating heart of intellectualism in Italy. As artists flocked to the city to etch timeless masterpieces, scientists at the University of Padua peered into the mysteries of the cosmos and the inner workings of the human body, forever changing how we view our world.
Along with numerous galleries and museums, Padua is home to several cathedrals and churches that feature artwork from some of Italy’s most famous painters. The Basilica of Saint Anthony remains a favorite for most art lovers visiting the city. Built in a variety of architectural styles, including Baroque and Gothic, this temple houses some of the city’s most beautiful paintings and sculptures, including bronze statues created by the Renaissance master Donatello.
Likewise, science-minded visitors to the city will enjoy tours of the University of Padua. Established in 1222, the University of Padua is the institution where the famed astronomer Galileo Galilei taught for nearly two decades. Globetrotters touring the university will also get to enjoy the institution’s Botanical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Genoa: Maritime Heritage Meets Modern Culture
Fountain at the Piazza De Ferrari, Genoa
Steeped in proud maritime history, Genoa has long attracted visitors interested in exploring its noble history and experiencing the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea. For over 700 years, Genoa was a dominant naval and commercial power of the Mediterranean, establishing itself as one of the world’s first maritime republics.
The city’s maritime history is related in great detail at the Galata Maritime Museum, Genoa’s premier cultural heritage institution. The largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean, the Galata boasts five floors of exhibits that bring visitors to the earliest days of Genoa’s past and into the modern era. Highlights of the museum’s collection include reconstructions of historic ships, an in-depth analysis of the sinking of the doomed liner, the Andrea Doria, and the Nazario Sauro, a decommissioned submarine from the Italian Navy.
No trip to Genoa can be complete without a stop at Nervi, a nearby suburb known for its beautiful beaches and seascapes. Boasting a magnificent promenade and a vivacious boardwalk, Nervi is one of best beaches in the Mediterranean and a fantastic place for a tranquil afternoon swim.
Trieste: A Blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic Influence
Summer sunrise at Trieste
Trieste sits in the northeast corner of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, an area of Italy that has a strong blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic cultures. Resting on the border of the Mediterranean and Central Europe, Trieste is home to an incredible mélange of architectural styles, religious customs, and culinary traditions that reflect all of the cultures that call the beautiful city home.
Most visitors hoping to get a flair for Trieste’s strong multicultural identity tour some of the city’s most well-known architectural wonders. Among the most famous is Piazza Unità d’Italia, the city’s central square. Built when Trieste was part of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, the square features architecture that is reminiscent of many Central European urban centers and reflects the strong influence that the Habsburg dynasty had on the city. The San Giusto Cathedral and Castle is one of the city’s prime examples of Romanesque architecture, having been built in the medieval era.
Culinary practices in Trieste are also a wonderful way to experience the city’s blend of cultures. The city’s coffeehouses are regarded as some of the best in Europe, and date back to when Trieste was the main coffee port for the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in the 19th century.
Bari: Southern Italy’s Hidden Gem
Norman-Swabian castle in the historic center of Bari
Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Bari is one of Southern Italy’s best hidden gems, a remarkable blend of culture and maritime tradition. One of the oldest cities in Italy, Bari welcomes visitors with a mix of beautiful harbors, historic buildings, and unforgettable cuisine. A dynamic, ever-changing city, Bari provides visitors with one of the most authentic and complete cultural experiences in the region of Puglia.
A favorite stop on most tours of Bari is Bari Vecchia, the city’s Old Town district, home to many of its most recognizable landmarks. Chief among them is the Basilica di San Nicola, a major pilgrimage site that honors Saint Nicholas, Bari’s patron saint and the progenitor of the modern figure of Santa Claus. Built in the 12th century, the basilica features beautiful Romanesque architecture and historic sculptures. Also of note is the city’s seafront, which offers some of the most picturesque seascapes in all of Europe.
Visitors hoping to partake in the city’s culinary scene will find a variety of classic Puglian tastes in Bari’s eating establishments. Puglian recipes are characterized by their rich, earthy textures and heavy use of seafood and hearty vegetable ingredients. Chief among the city’s favorite dishes is orecchiette alla barese, pasta served with rapini, garlic, and anchovies.
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Catania: A Sicilian Gem
Catania cityscape and Mount Etna volcano
Sicily has long impressed visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty, cultural experiences, and amazing cuisine. Of all the island’s underappreciated gems, Catania is one of Sicily’s most alluring. An eclectic, cosmopolitan city on Sicily’s east coast, Catania features a seaside charm that makes it one of Italy’s best spots to experience true Mediterranean culture.
Upon entering Catania, most visitors are quick to notice Mount Etna towering over the historic city. Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna is a popular hiking destination just outside of the city. While fertile soil on the lower slopes support orchards and vineyards, hiking to higher elevations reveals landscapes studded with craters and lava fields for surroundings that most visitors say bear a striking resemblance to the lunar surface.
Another popular destination in Catania is the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s main square. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Piazza del Duomo is known for its beautiful buildings of volcanic stone and limestone and is crowned by the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, one of the city’s most renowned examples of Baroque architecture. After exploring the piazza to your heart’s content, take a quick walk to the nearby fish market, the city’s best open air market for some exceptional examples of Sicilian street food.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best way to get around lesser-known Italian cities?
A: Most smaller cities have walkable centers, but public transport options vary. Trains connect major hubs, while buses and rental cars are useful for more remote spots. Biking is a great option in cities like Padua and Bologna.
Q: Are there any special local festivals in these destinations?
A: Yes! Verona hosts a Valentine’s festival in February, Bologna has a tortellini festival, and Bari celebrates the Feast of Saint Nicholas in May.
Q: Is tipping customary in restaurants?
A: Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, as a service charge is often included. However, leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.
Q: Are these cities good for budget travelers?
A: Yes! Many have affordable accommodations, free historical sites, and inexpensive street food. Markets in cities like Genoa and Catania offer great food at lower prices than sit-down restaurants.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit these destinations?
A: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Summer can be hot and busy, especially in coastal areas. Winter is great for a quieter experience, especially in cities like Padua and Bologna.
Q: Are English speakers commonly found in these areas?
A: In major tourist spots, you’ll find English speakers, but in smaller towns, basic Italian phrases will help. Locals appreciate efforts to speak their language.
Do you plan to visit any of these Italian gems anytime soon? Let us know in our comments section below!
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