Under-the-radar towns in Italy for a beautiful crowd-free vacation, according to visitors
Alberobello, Puglia
Dotted with unique cone-shaped white buildings known as "trulli (singular; trullo)," Puglia's Alberobello is a picturesque town you can't miss. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site back in the '90s, this scenic town is full of history and beauty waiting around every corner. Of the 1,500-or-so preserved trulli (some of which date back to the 1500s), most are souvenir shops, restaurants, and accommodations, and you can find the majority of them tucked into the Rione Monti quarter in the city's center.
Be sure to check out a number of the town's viewpoints for some of the best looks at this charming town. The Rione Aia Piccola district is also well worth wandering through. The Trullo Sovrano is the town's largest trullo and is now a museum about the town. Fairytale-esque Alberobello is small but perfectly formed, so you only need a few hours or so here. However, if you want to extend the serenity, there are a number of places to stay within town — you can even stay overnight in a trullo.
Ortigia, Sicily
The historic center of Syracuse (or "Siracusa," in Italian), Ortigia is a stunning island escape steeped in history. Located on an island off Sicily's eastern coast, Ortigia is perfect for meandering through its quiet streets and admiring its whitewashed buildings. It is a tiny island that is easy to explore completely on foot, and it is connected to the mainland by two bridges.
A highlight in Ortigia is its market, which runs Mondays through Saturdays and is a great place to grab a meal and a souvenir (or three). The town is packed with Baroque architecture and historic sites, such as the Cathedral of Ortigia, which was built over the fifth-century Temple of Athena. While technically outside of Ortigia, don't skip a visit to the Neapolis Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to Greek and Roman ruins. Don't forget to indulge in lots of Sicilian cuisine while here, from spectacular seafood and out-of-this-world wine to Ortigia's signature appreciation of pistachio, which can be found in everything from pastries to pesto.
Ceglie Messapica, Puglia
This picturesque spot in the Brindisi province is one of Puglia's oldest towns, and when we say "old," we mean old. We're talking many centuries before the beginning of the Common Era, that level of old. Over the centuries, Ceglie Messapica was a key trading center for the ancient tribe (the Messapi), as well as a Roman colony and military post. Today, Ceglie Messapica is a vastly overlooked Italian village packed with history, beauty, and delicious food on practically every corner. The historic center is a gorgeous area filled with whitewashed buildings, and the excellent 13th-century Castle of Ceglie Messapica holds an archaeological museum and municipal library. For stunning Baroque architecture and art, visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
Foodies will also find plenty to love here, as the town has a rich culinary tradition. It has even won some accolades in recent decades, especially regarding its desserts and baked goods. You'll find that many restaurants have been in families for generations, utilizing historic techniques and prioritizing local ingredients — so you'll know that you're in for a treat.
Sperlonga, Lazio
This under-the-radar town just a short train ride away from Rome is full of charm and devoid of crowds. Sperlonga's old town is characterized by whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and jaw-dropping sea views. Regarding sightseeing, Sperlonga's must-see landmarks include the ruins of Emperor Tiberius's Palace, which dates back to his reign from A.D. 14 to 37, and the accompanying archaeological museum, which houses numerous ancient sculptures. Visitors can also consider 800-year-old frescoes in the 12th-century Chiesa Di Santa Maria, which also opens occasionally for cultural events.
Tucked between Rome and Naples, Spelonga is also home to a spectacular food scene, with pizza and seafood galore. Be sure to try tiella, a regional delicacy of fresh pasta stuffed with delicious fillings like seafood or eggplant. Sperlonga's beach is also ideal for sunbathing, with clean, shallow waters and a relaxing ambiance. Sperlona is a fantastic choice for a day trip escape from the hustle and bustle of the Italian capital, although don't be shocked to find yourself making plans to stay forever.
Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna
This quiet medieval town is virtually unknown to foreign tourists, who are all missing out on its alluring landscapes and romantic ambiance. Surrounded by mountains and vineyards and made up of colorful structures, Brisighella appears straight out of a postcard. The town is ideal for slow travelers, those visitors who aren't seeking a ton of excursions but rather a day of wandering around, taking photos, and indulging in Italian wine and cuisine. The area is lauded for its olive oil, which you can find in a number of varieties. If you are up for some sightseeing, head to La Rocca, where you can find a still-intact 14th-century castle, a 19th-century clocktower, and an 18th-century religious sanctuary.
Further out from town, there's plenty of hiking for more energetic travelers. The Parco Carnè wildlife park is home to trails, a camping area, a museum, as well as a restaurant serving delicious food that accentuates the stellar views. Not far from Brisighella, you can also find thermal baths if you're in need of some extra relaxation.
Trieste, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Located in the northeast of Italy and bordering Austria and Slovenia, Trieste has a flavor all of its own. Despite its idyllic views and unique cultural blend, the city known as Trst in Slovenia remains criminally overlooked. Small enough for an ideal day trip but with enough to do to occupy you for longer, highlights include the Piazza Unità d'Italia, where you can see the clear architectural influence of the town's former life as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This is reflected in its food, and you can find plenty of restaurants serving up dishes of meat, potatoes, and sauerkraut. You can also find more typical Italian-style spots, especially in the Cavana neighborhood.
Trieste is also home to the ruins of an ancient Roman theater. It dates all the way back to the first and second centuries A.D. and occasionally hosts summertime concerts. Trieste even has its very own canal — known as Canal Grande — and Castello di San Giusto offers both an excursion for history buffs, as well as a fantastic view for those who'd rather skip the history lesson. Surprisingly, Trieste is also considered the coffee capital of Italy, so be sure to try a cup (or three) while here.
Sottoguda, Veneto
If you're looking to ditch the beach and sunburn for some snow-capped mountains instead, then this one's for you. While all of these underrated Italian destinations are undoubtedly striking, Sottoguda — located at the highest peak of the Dolomites— is considered one of the prettiest. Yes, that's right, one of the prettiest destinations in Italy, a country famous for its stunning spots. Situated right by Serrai di Sottoguda Natural Park and Alleghe Lake, Sottoguda is tranquil, nature-filled, and utterly breathtaking. In the winter, its frozen waterfalls are a main attraction, becoming a climbing gym for ice climbers.
Whether you prefer hiking, climbing, or winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, Sottoguda is the perfect adventure destination. Part of its charm is that this Alpine village maintains its rural architecture, and throughout the town you'll see spellbinding "tabièi," or wooden barns. Be sure to check out Sottoguda's church, which goes back to the 15th century, when only 10 families called Sottoguda home.
Castiglione di Garfagnana, Tuscany
Castiglione di Garfagnana has no shortage of gorgeous views and fascinating history. A walk through this town's historic center will transport you back in time with its winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and enchanting plazas. Historic sightseeing includes architectural wonders like the Church of San Pietro, the Palazzo Comunale, and the Rocca di Castiglione, the town's medieval forest and one of the best places for panoramic views of the area.
The town truly embraces its medieval history. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to catch one of its medieval festivals, which may include reenactments, performances, and street markets. Practically hidden away in the woods, this is also a great nature destination in Tuscany, thanks primarily to its proximity to the Apuan Alps and Apennine Mountains. There are a number of fantastic hiking trails that will allow you to take in its jaw-dropping scenery.
