12 Amazing Hidden Gems in Italy Only Locals Know About

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Italy ambushed me with beauty in ways I never expected. Everyone knows about Rome and Florence, but when I ventured to towns like Matera with its ancient cave dwellings and Orvieto perched dramatically on volcanic rock, I discovered a completely different Italy. The kind that makes you wonder why you wasted so much time in the packed tourist hotspots.

From the jaw-dropping coastline of Puglia to the vineyard-covered hills of Piedmont, Italy hosts some of the best places in Europe for food lovers and architecture buffs alike. After three extended trips zigzagging through the country by train, rental car, and yes, even a vintage Vespa one terrifying afternoon, I’ve finally assembled this list of 12 spectacular spots that deserve your attention more than that thousandth photo of the Colosseum.

Best Things to Do in Italy

Looking to explore hidden gems in Italy? From the stunning landscapes of Civita di Bagnoregio to the serene beauty of Lake Orta, Italy is packed with hidden treasures.

Stroll through the charming streets of Matera, marvel at the natural beauty of Cascate del Mulino, or explore the historic charm of Ravenna. Whether you’re into nature, history, or vibrant towns, here are 12 of Italy’s most breathtaking hidden gems!

1. Civita di Bagnoregio

• 📍 Location: Lazio, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History lovers, 🧗 Scenic walkers, 📸 Slow travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Crossing the dramatic footbridge, relaxing in Piazza San Donato, exploring stone alleyways
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for wildflower blooms and fewer crowds 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Corte della Maestà – A charming, boutique guesthouse set in a restored former rectory

Civita di Bagnoregio feels like it belongs in a fantasy novel. Perched on a crumbling plateau above a dramatic valley, this medieval village is only accessible by a long pedestrian bridge that adds to its otherworldly vibe. Once inside, it’s all winding lanes, ivy-covered stone houses, and sweeping hilltop views.

Most people come for a quick day trip, but the real magic happens when the day-trippers leave. Stay overnight and you’ll have the quiet streets almost to yourself. Grab a seat in the piazza, listen to the breeze, and take in the silence that’s rare in Italy’s more popular towns.

Despite its small size, the village holds deep cultural value and stunning scenery. It’s one of those places that feels both fragile and timeless, holding on against the odds. If you’re looking for a quiet corner of Italy that still feels untouched, this is it.

2. Valle d’Itria

• 📍 Location: Puglia, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏡 Architecture lovers, 🚴‍♂️ countryside explorers, 🍷 wine sippers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring trulli houses, cycling through olive groves, visiting small towns like Locorotondo
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to early July for blooming fields and fewer tourists 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Trulli Soave – Traditional limestone trullo with modern comforts in the heart of Alberobello

Valle d’Itria feels like a fairytale carved into limestone. Rolling hills are dotted with trulli, cone-roofed stone houses that look like they belong in a fantasy film. While Alberobello is the most well-known town in the valley, nearby villages like Cisternino and Locorotondo offer quieter, more authentic experiences.

The region is best explored slowly. Rent a bike or car and weave through country roads lined with vineyards, olive groves, and wildflowers. Each stop reveals family-run farms, stone churches, and tiny piazzas where time moves slower than anywhere else.

Locals here still follow the rhythm of the land. Sit down for a long lunch, sip crisp white wine, and enjoy the breeze coming off the Adriatic. Valle d’Itria doesn’t try to impress with grandeur. Instead, it charms through quiet beauty, simple pleasures, and landscapes that feel uniquely southern Italian.

3. Castelluccio di Norcia

• 📍 Location: Umbria, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🌸 Wildflower chasers, 🥾 mountain hikers, 🍲 local food lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing La Fiorita in bloom, hiking Monte Vettore, tasting lentils from local farms
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late May to July for peak wildflower season 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Agriturismo Casale nel Parco – Rustic farmhouse stay with mountain views near Norcia

Castelluccio di Norcia offers one of Italy’s most surreal natural displays. Every late spring, the plains beneath this small mountain village burst into color with La Fiorita, a wildflower bloom so vivid it feels unreal. Red poppies, yellow rapeseed, and purple cornflowers carpet the valley beneath soaring peaks.

The village itself sits at around 4,800 feet and feels like a frontier outpost suspended in time. Despite past earthquake damage, its spirit remains strong, especially among farmers who still grow the region’s prized lentils. These tiny legumes are a local specialty and worth seeking out while visiting.

Trails around Monte Vettore offer sweeping views and peace rarely found in other parts of Italy. It’s remote and raw, but that’s the point. If you’re craving wide open spaces, bright blooms, and mountain air, Castelluccio is a quiet treasure that rewards those who make the trip.

4. The Ghost Town of Balestrino

• 📍 Location: Liguria, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏚️ Urban explorers, 🏞️ hillside hikers, 📷 moody photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through abandoned streets, hiking to Castello Del Carretto, exploring the newer town below
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to October for pleasant weather and fewer visitors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Loano 2 Village – Comfortable resort stay just a short drive from Balestrino

Balestrino is one of Italy’s eeriest and most underrated gems. This abandoned medieval village clings to a hilltop inland from the Ligurian coast. Once home to hundreds, it was evacuated in the mid-1900s due to landslide risks, leaving stone buildings and churches behind like a forgotten film set.

Today, the original town is closed off for safety, but nearby trails and viewpoints let you look directly into its crumbling core. The ruins look surreal, with nature slowly reclaiming what people left behind. Hike to the old castle for sweeping views from mountains to sea.

The modern town below has a quiet charm of its own. Local trattorias still serve regional dishes influenced by the coast and the hills. It’s the contrast between the silence above and the slow pace below that makes Balestrino feel like you’ve discovered something truly lost in time.

5. Porticciolo

• 📍 Location: Sardinia, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Beach seekers, 🛶 coastal adventurers, 🧘‍♀️ nature lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the protected bay, hiking Porto Conte Park trails, finding secret coves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late May to early September for warm beach weather 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel El Faro – Coastal retreat overlooking the bay with direct park access

Porticciolo is a hidden pocket of Sardinia that feels untouched by the luxury tourism found elsewhere on the island. Located along the northern coast near Alghero, it offers a crescent-shaped beach with shallow, transparent water backed by pine trees and rugged cliffs. The vibe is quiet and laid-back.

Because it sits inside Porto Conte Regional Park, the area remains largely undeveloped. You can hike coastal trails, paddle into sea caves, or simply relax on the sand without fighting for space. It’s especially great for families and solo travelers seeking something peaceful and beautiful.

Boat rentals and kayak excursions offer ways to reach even more secluded beaches nearby. If you want Sardinia without the crowds or flash, Porticciolo delivers. It’s a place where the sea is clear, the prices are fair, and the wild Mediterranean feels close enough to touch.

6. Tropea

• 📍 Location: Calabria, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Beach lovers, 🏛️ architecture fans, 🌅 sunset seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing to Santa Maria dell’Isola, swimming below the cliffs, exploring the old town
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to June for warm weather and fewer crowds ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Villa Antica Tropea – Restored noble residence near the historic center and beaches

Tropea looks like something out of a dream. This cliffside town in southern Italy stuns with golden beaches below and medieval streets above. From the top, you get sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and down below, soft sand and turquoise water stretch for miles.

The town itself feels intimate and walkable, full of winding alleyways, hidden courtyards, and shops selling local goods. One of the best views comes from the church of Santa Maria dell’Isola, perched on its own rocky outcrop with stairs leading down to the beach.

Despite its growing popularity with Italians, Tropea still feels genuine. Local food stands out, from fresh seafood to spicy ‘nduja. Stick around for sunset when the whole town glows golden, and you’ll understand why Tropea is often whispered about but rarely overcrowded. It’s still an underrated jewel on Italy’s less-visited coast.

7. Procida

• 📍 Location: Bay of Naples, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🎨 Color lovers, 🛥️ island hoppers, 🍋 laid-back travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Marina Corricella, walking up to Terra Murata, relaxing on Pozzo Vecchio Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to early June for sunny days and local life in full swing 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Casa sul Mare – Pastel-colored guesthouse with panoramic harbor views

Procida is often skipped for Capri or Ischia, which is exactly what makes it so special. Just a quick ferry ride from Naples, this tiny island charms with pastel-painted buildings, narrow alleys, and slow island vibes that feel completely different from the mainland.

Marina Corricella is the postcard-perfect spot. Fishing boats bob in the harbor while locals mend nets or chat over espresso. The climb to Terra Murata offers some of the best views in the Bay of Naples, and the entire island is walkable, making it perfect for a car-free day trip or overnight stay.

You won’t find luxury shops or packed resorts here. Instead, Procida is all about simplicity and local life. It’s colorful, calm, and filled with small moments that make it feel like a real escape. If you want a peaceful slice of southern Italy, this is where to go.

8. Val Grande National Park

• 📍 Location: Piedmont, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Wilderness hikers, 🏕️ solitude seekers, 🌲 forest lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking to Alpe Pian di Boit, visiting the Ecomuseum in Intragna, hiking ancient mule trails
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for snow-free trails and clear views 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ostello Val Grande – Rustic hostel in Cossogno with private and shared rooms

Val Grande National Park is Italy’s largest wilderness area and one of its least explored. Tucked into the mountains near Lake Maggiore, this rugged region is a true escape from crowds and cell service. Abandoned decades ago, the park has been reclaimed by nature, with forests swallowing old stone villages and shepherd huts.

Hiking here feels like stepping back in time. Trails like the one from Cicogna to Pogallo follow centuries-old paths through dense woods, alpine meadows, and misty valleys. The vibe is wild and quiet, with a strong sense of isolation that’s hard to find elsewhere in Italy.

This is not a place for casual sightseeing. It’s for those who crave raw nature and are willing to hike for hours to find it. If you’re looking to unplug, clear your head, and breathe fresh mountain air, Val Grande is worth every step.

9. Lago di Tovel

• 📍 Location: Trentino, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏞️ Lake lovers, 📷 photographers, 🧘‍♂️ peaceful nature seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the lakeside trail, swimming in glacier-fed water, visiting the nature center
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear skies and trail access 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Chalet Tovel – Cozy lodge just steps from the lake with woodsy mountain charm

Lago di Tovel is one of the Dolomites’ best-kept secrets. Surrounded by limestone peaks and dense pine forests, this alpine lake offers unreal reflections and quiet beauty in every direction. Once known for its red-tinted waters caused by algae, the lake is now celebrated for its deep emerald color and pristine condition.

A 4-kilometer trail circles the shoreline, offering lookout points, picnic areas, and access to a small visitor center that explains the lake’s rare ecosystem. Brave visitors can take a chilly dip, but most come to relax, photograph the views, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon walk.

Unlike more crowded lakes in northern Italy, Tovel remains low-key and protected by its location within a nature park. It’s an easy day trip from Trento, but staying overnight lets you enjoy the early morning calm when the lake is still and the air feels untouched.

10. Montemerano

• 📍 Location: Tuscany, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History buffs, 🌄 countryside dreamers, 🧘‍♀️ spa seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking Piazza del Castello, soaking at Saturnia hot springs, viewing Renaissance art in San Giorgio
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for spring blooms and mild temperatures 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bio Agriturismo Podere Santa Croce – Peaceful farm stay near Montemerano with spa access

Montemerano is the Tuscan village you picture in your head but rarely find in real life. Set among the rolling hills of southern Tuscany’s Maremma region, it’s surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and barely a trace of mass tourism. The village is enclosed by medieval walls and filled with cobblestone lanes, flowering balconies, and a central square that looks lifted from a Renaissance painting.

Inside the small church of San Giorgio, you’ll find frescoes and sacred art that rival those in larger cities. Just outside the town, the Saturnia hot springs invite visitors to soak in thermal pools cascading over natural stone.

Montemerano is quiet, authentic, and feels deeply lived in. Local life thrives here, with evening walks, neighborly chats, and family-run restaurants that haven’t changed in years. For those seeking a slower, more grounded version of Tuscany, this place is a gem.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Tuscany

11. Grotta della Poesia

• 📍 Location: Puglia, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🏊 Cliff jumpers, 🏛️ archaeology fans, 📷 scenic explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the limestone sinkhole, visiting Roca Vecchia ruins, walking the coast to Grotta Piccola
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to early July for warm water and fewer crowds 🏖️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Masseria Rauccio – Traditional stone guesthouse near the coast with tranquil gardens

Grotta della Poesia is one of Italy’s most stunning natural swimming spots. Located near Roca Vecchia on Puglia’s Adriatic coast, this collapsed sea cave forms a near-perfect oval pool filled with crystal-clear water. The setting is dramatic, with rocky cliffs surrounding the sinkhole and waves crashing just beyond.

The area has deep historical roots too. Bronze Age inscriptions carved into the limestone suggest that people have been gathering here for thousands of years. Visitors today leap from the five-meter rim or enter more slowly by natural stone steps.

Nearby ruins of ancient Roca Vecchia make it easy to turn this into a half-day adventure. A short walk along the coast leads to a second, smaller sinkhole that’s often quieter. Arrive early in the day for the best light, clearest water, and some peaceful moments before the energy picks up.

12. Matera

• 📍 Location: Basilicata, Italy
• 🏆 Best For: 🕳️ History lovers, 🛌 unique stays, 🎥 film location fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Sassi cave dwellings, walking Via del Corso, visiting Casa Noha
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for cool temps and light tourist traffic 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel – Upscale cave suites with spa amenities in the heart of the Sassi

Matera feels like walking through a living museum carved out of stone. Its Sassi districts are made up of ancient cave dwellings, some of which have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. Today, many of these caves are home to stylish hotels, cozy restaurants, and cultural exhibits.

Wander the maze-like alleys and you’ll discover viewpoints that overlook deep ravines and rock-hewn churches built into cliffs. The town’s transformation from impoverished outpost to UNESCO World Heritage Site is a powerful part of its identity.

Evenings are especially magical here. As lights flicker across the stone walls, locals stroll the main road and conversations echo through alleyways. Despite increased recognition in recent years, Matera still feels grounded in community life. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination where you can sleep, eat, and explore inside history itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Italy’s Hidden Gems

Are you looking for more information about where to go in Italy for an authentic experience? Here are some frequently asked questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Italy’s best hidden gems.

What is the most underrated city in Italy?

While Italy is home to many renowned cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, one of the most underrated gems is Lecce. Located in the Puglia region, Lecce is the “Florence of the South” for its stunning Baroque architecture. Its historic center is a maze of narrow streets, dotted with ancient churches, palaces, and a Roman amphitheater. Plus, it’s a stone’s throw away from some of the most pristine beaches on the Adriatic coast.

Where are the best hidden vacation spots in Italy?

Italy is brimming with lesser-known destinations that promise unforgettable experiences. From the serene waters of Lago di Tovel in Trentino to the ancient cave dwellings of Matera in Basilicata, there’s a hidden spot for every type of traveler. For beach lovers, the untouched shores of Polignano a Mare in Puglia are a dream. While history enthusiasts might find the Etruscan tombs in Tarquinia fascinating.

What are some unique things to do in Italy that most tourists miss?

Beyond the usual tourist trails, Italy offers a plethora of unique experiences. You can explore the ghost town of Craco, abandoned due to natural disasters. Or, you can take a dip in the natural hot springs of Cascate del Mulino near Montemerano. For a blend of nature and history, the Valley of the Temples in Sicily offers ancient Greek ruins set against a backdrop of almond trees and sea views.

Are there any secret places to visit in Italy that aren’t crowded?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to escape the crowds, consider visiting places like the town of Bosa in Sardinia, known for its colorful houses and medieval castle. Another hidden gem is the village of Civita di Bagnoregio in Lazio, accessible only by a pedestrian bridge and offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Which hidden gems in Rome are worth exploring?

Rome has its fair share of hidden gems. Beyond the Colosseum and the Vatican, explore the lesser-known Quartiere Coppedè, an architectural wonderland with whimsical buildings. The Basilica of San Clemente offers a journey through layers of history, from a Roman house to a Christian Basilica. For a peaceful retreat, the rose garden on Aventine Hill provides stunning views and a variety of rose species.

Where can I find hidden gems in Milan away from the usual tourist spots?

Milan, known globally for its fashion and design, also harbors some delightful secrets. Venture to the Brera District, where art and bohemian vibes merge, offering a plethora of quaint cafes and art studios. The San Bernardino alle Ossa is a unique chapel adorned with human skulls and bones, providing a different perspective on Milan’s history. For a green escape, the Parco Sempione, behind the Sforza Castle, is a peaceful retreat amidst the city hustle.

What is the best kept secret city of Italy?

One of Italy’s best-kept secret cities is Matera. Nestled in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is unlike any other city in Italy or, for that matter, the world. Here’s why:

1. Ancient Cave Dwellings: Matera is renowned for its “Sassi,” ancient cave dwellings that have been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest living cities. These caves were once considered a national shame due to the extreme poverty and harsh living conditions. However, in recent decades, many of the caves are now cozy accommodations, chic restaurants, and unique shops.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognizing its historical significance and unique architecture, UNESCO designated the Sassi of Matera as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
3. European Capital of Culture: In 2019, Matera was named the European Capital of Culture, bringing it further into the spotlight and sparking interest among travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
4. Natural Beauty: The city’s rugged landscape, with its deep canyons and gorges, offers a dramatic backdrop that has attracted filmmakers from around the world. Matera has been the setting for several films, including Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ.”
5. Rich History: Beyond the Sassi, Matera boasts beautiful churches, some of which are carved directly into the rock. The museums tell the story of the city’s rich history and evolution.

While Matera is gaining popularity, it still remains less frequented than Italy’s major tourist hubs, offering an authentic and unique Italian experience.

Are there any underrated activities in Italy that offer a true local experience?

For a genuine taste of Italy, consider attending a traditional cooking class in Tuscany, where you can learn to make pasta from scratch. In regions like Piedmont, truffle hunting with local experts is a unique experience that allows you to explore the countryside. For those seeking a spiritual journey, the Cammino di San Benedetto, a pilgrimage route connecting Norcia to Subiaco, offers a blend of nature, history, and spirituality.

Final Thoughts on Italy’s Hidden Gems

Italy has always been a top destination for travelers worldwide. While cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence often steal the limelight, the true essence of Italy lies in its hidden gems. From the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the serene waters of Lago di Tovel, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse landscape and heritage.

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Italy promises experiences that are both authentic and unforgettable. Whether it’s exploring a secluded beach in Polignano a Mare, diving into the mysteries of the “Cave of Poetry,” or wandering through the timeless streets of Montemerano, there’s always something new to discover.

As you plan your next Italian adventure, consider including some of these lesser-known spots in Italy in your itinerary. Not only will you escape the usual tourist crowds, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for Italy’s multifaceted charm. After all, the beauty of travel lies in exploration, and Italy, with its endless treasures, is waiting to be explored.