7 Hidden Gems in Italy You Must Visit
Italy has its fair share of world-famous destinations, including Rome, Venice, and Florence.
But beyond these renowned cities lies a treasure trove of hidden gems that can provide a more intimate, more authentic experience.
As a solo traveler, wearing (hopefully) my lightest pack, I’ve found some hidden corners that reflect the beauty of Italy.
Here are seven Italian hidden gems that you need to visit.
1. Matera, Basilicata
Matera, known as the “City of Stones,” is a captivating destination with a special history.
The Sassi is an ancient town seen in cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs.
The Sassi Districts
Wandering the Sassi districts of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano is like taking a step back in time.
Some of the cave dwellings and churches exist as far back in history as the Paleolithic age, we get a fascinating view into the past.
It was fun to explore the maze of streets and stone buildings, looking for photo opportunities and a game of discovery.
Nighttime Magic
Matera at night resembles a fairy-tale landscape, with its stone buildings lit up and glowing over the city.
Wandering the Sassi like this, in the open air under the stars, can’t be beat.
Practical Tips
> When To Visit: April to June and September to October for better weather and fewer crowds
> What to Pack: Good walking shoes for negotiating honeycomb-like cobblestone streets and a decent camera for capturing the one-of-a-kind architecture.
> Travel Tip: For a fully immersive experience, overnight at a cave hotel.
2. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio, nicknamed “The Dying City,” is situated on a plateau of a type of volcanic tuff that overlooks the Tiber River valley.
This picturesque village buried in snow is connected only by a pedestrian bridge.
Breathtaking Views
The approach to Civita over the bridge is spectacular.
The village appears to hang above the valley, and the surrounding landscape makes for a gorgeous photo backdrop.
Timeless Charm
Inside, narrow streets, ancient stone houses and gorgeous squares feel frozen in time.
In the absence of cars and modern infrastructure, it makes the arrival of a time warp all the more striking.
Practical Tips
> Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and colorful landscapes.
> What to Bring: A light backpack for day trips and a hat for sun protection when crossing the bridge.
> Travel Tip: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to skip the peak tourist hours.
3. Ravello, Amalfi Coast
Yes, the Amalfi Coast is not a secret, but the hilltop town of Ravello is frequently eclipsed by its more known neighbors.
Ravello is known for its stunning views, beautiful gardens, and charming ambience.
Villa Cimbrone Gardens
The Key Highlights: The gardens of Villa Cimbrone are breathtaking, providing panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Terrace of Infinity — so many marble busts, so many endless vistas — is especially Instagrammable.
Music and Culture
Sedangkan Ravello juga terkenal dengan seninya, salah satunya Ravello Festival yang menampilkan musik dan seni di tempat-tempat yang indah.
Many of these events take place in the historic Villa Rufolo, which is worth a visit itself.
Practical Tips
> When to Go: May-September for ideal weather and festival season.
> What to Pack: A light jacket for cool evenings and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture distant views.
> Travel Tip: The best way to see the town is on foot so you can truly appreciate its beauty and quiet.
4. Alberobello, Puglia
Trulli houses in Alberobello, which is a UNESCO heritage site
These whitewashed rooms with conical roofs form a fairy tale around the landscape.
Trulli Districts
Most of the trulli can be seen in the Rione Monti and Aia Piccola districts.
Its sloping roofs and crumbling exterior evoke a sense of fairy tale wanderlust, and every trullo has its own special presence.
Trullo Sovrano
You can visit Trullo Sovrano, the biggest trullo in Alberobello, to learn more about the history and construction of these iconic buildings.
The insiders are as interesting as the outsiders, offering glimpses into traditional Apulian life.
Practical Tips
> When to Go: Spring and autumn, for mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
> What to Pack: A wide-angle lens for photographing the trulli and comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones.
> TRAVEL TIP: For an authentic, unforgettable experience, book a stay in a trullo.
5. Orvieto, Umbria
Orvieto—A beautiful medieval town resting on a peninsular volcanic rock cliff.
Its elevated position affords stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Orvieto Cathedral
Orvieto Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture
Its elaborately decorated facade and gorgeous frescoes inside are a must-see.
Its Chapel of San Brizio is especially famous for Renaissance frescoes by Luca Signorelli.
Underground Wonders
Explore Orvieto Underground — A secret 300-part network of caves and tunnels just beneath Orvieto.
These hidden tunnels were used for numerous purposes over the centuries and provide a unique look at Orvieto’s history.
Practical Tips
> When To Go: April to June and September to October include comfortable weather and fewer visitors.
> What to Pack: A flashlight for scouting underground caves and a sturdy pair of walking shoes.
Travel Tip: An easy and enjoyable way to get from the train station to the town is to take the funicular (and it also offers good views).
6. San Gimignano, Tuscany
San Gimignano, known as the “Medieval Manhattan” for its towers, is a lovely hill town in Tuscany.
It features well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque streets, all with easy parking.
Tower Climb
Panoramic view of the San Gimignano and its Tuscan countryside from the top of the Torre Grossa, the main tower there.
The work is worth it for the panoramic vistas from the top.
Gelato Heaven
Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano is famous for its award-winning gelato.
So a visit in town square while munching on the cone of this delicious treat is a must.
Practical Tips
> Best Time to Go: May to October for the best weather and to experience the local festivals.
> What to Pack: A camera with a zoom lens to photograph the town’s towers and other scenery.
> Travel Tip: Arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to miss the day-tripper crowds.
7. Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia
Trieste, a city on the northeast coast of Italy near the border with Slovenia, is a place of Italian, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic influences.
With its rich history and diverse cultural scene, it’s a destination definitely off the tourist grid.
Piazza Unità d’Italia
Trieste’s main square, Piazza Unità d’Italia, is Europe’s largest piazza facing the sea.
Add in the sea view of the Adriatic and the large buildings surrounding the square and the place is beautiful and picturesque.
Miramare Castle
About a 10-minute drive from downtown, Castle Miramare is a lovely 19th-century castle right on the edge of the sea.
The castle’s gardens and interiors are also quite impressive — there are tons of potential photo opportunities.
Practical Tips
> Best season to visit: From May to September for warm weather and outdoor activities.
> What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration and a swimsuit for a plunge in the Adriatic.
> Travel Tip: For boat tours that showcase both the city and Miramare Castle from the water, less commonly seen at other places.
Conclusion
Italy’s hidden gems provide an opportunity to explore the country’s vibrant culture, history and stunning landscapes without the crowds that you would find in more popular destinations.
From the cave-houses of Matera to the medieval towers of San Gimignano, each of these seven destinations offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
So, get your bags packed, your camera charged, and prepare to discover Italy’s lesser-known wonders.
