Top 10 Lesser-Known Places to Visit in Italy
Perched dramatically on a crumbling hilltop in the province of Viterbo, Civita di Bagnoregio is often referred to as “the dying town.” This medieval village can only be accessed via a footbridge and is known for its surreal landscape and time-frozen charm.
Civita di Bagnoregio, Province of Viterbo
Despite its haunting beauty, Civita receives far fewer visitors than more famous Tuscan and Umbrian towns. Its narrow lanes, flower-draped balconies and stone houses offer an unforgettable glimpse into ancient rural Italy without the crowds.
Castelluccio di Norcia, Province of Perugia
High in the Sibillini Mountains in the province of Perugia lies Castelluccio di Norcia, a tiny hamlet famous for its breathtaking flowering meadows. Every spring and early summer, the surrounding plateau bursts into a patchwork of wildflowers known as the Fiorita.
Visitors who venture this high are rewarded with spectacular views, tranquility and access to one of Italy’s most stunning natural events. Hikers and photographers alike find this remote corner of Umbria unforgettable.
Brisighella, Province of Ravenna
Brisighella is a fairytale village tucked away in the province of Ravenna in Emilia-Romagna. Surrounded by hills and olive groves, this medieval town is crowned by a clock tower, a castle and a unique covered walkway known as the Via degli Asini.
The town is also a stronghold of high-quality olive oil production and offers a peaceful, atmospheric alternative to the busier cities of the region. It's the perfect escape for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Noli, Province of Savona
Often overshadowed by the more glamorous coastal towns of Liguria, Noli is a historic fishing village in the province of Savona. Its medieval layout, complete with ancient towers and a fortified hilltop castle, invites visitors to step back in time.
The beach here is sandy and relaxed, far less touristy than nearby Riviera spots. With a charming promenade and authentic seafood cuisine, Noli is Liguria as it once was—unspoiled and intimate.
Sperlonga, Province of Latina
Sperlonga is a striking coastal village in the province of Latina with whitewashed houses tumbling down cliffs toward the sea. The town is steeped in Roman history and includes the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ villa and grotto.
Despite its beauty and rich past, Sperlonga remains relatively under the radar. With crystal-clear water and peaceful beaches, it offers a perfect blend of heritage and seaside relaxation away from the tourist masses.
Sulmona, Province of L'Aquila
Located in the province of L'Aquila in Abruzzo, Sulmona is best known as the birthplace of the Roman poet Ovid and for its exquisite sugared almonds known as “confetti.” The town is rich with baroque architecture and charming piazzas.
Surrounded by mountains and near several national parks, Sulmona also offers nature-based experiences like hiking and skiing. The town’s festivals and local crafts make it a vibrant cultural destination worth discovering.
Bosa, Province of Oristano
On the western coast of Sardinia in the province of Oristano, Bosa is a pastel-colored town with a deep-rooted fishing and winemaking tradition. Set along the River Temo, its colorful houses rise in tiers beneath the ancient Malaspina Castle.
Bosa is far less commercial than many Sardinian coastal resorts, preserving an authentic atmosphere. Its unique blend of river, sea and history makes it a hidden treasure on one of Italy’s most sought-after islands.
Sabbioneta, Province of Mantua
Sabbioneta is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the province of Mantua, Lombardy. Built in the 16th century by Vespasiano Gonzaga, it was designed as the “ideal city” of the Renaissance, complete with geometric streets and grand piazzas.
Often bypassed in favor of nearby Mantua or Cremona, Sabbioneta offers travelers a rare chance to explore a perfectly preserved Renaissance urban layout. Museums, theaters and palaces enrich the cultural experience without overwhelming crowds.
Crespi d’Adda, Province of Bergamo
In the province of Bergamo lies Crespi d’Adda, a fascinating 19th-century workers’ village and another UNESCO World Heritage site. This model town was built by the Crespi family around their cotton mill, reflecting early industrial utopian ideals.
Today, visitors can explore the quiet streets, neo-Gothic architecture and unique social planning that made Crespi d’Adda an innovation in its time. The site is both culturally important and visually striking.
Scilla, Province of Reggio Calabria
Scilla is a mythical coastal town in the province of Reggio Calabria, believed to be the home of the sea monster Scylla from Homer’s Odyssey. Its stunning location on the Tyrrhenian Sea features a castle perched on a rocky outcrop and colorful fishing houses along the beach.
While many head to Sicily or Amalfi for their beach holidays, Scilla remains largely undiscovered by international tourists. It is one of southern Italy’s most photogenic and romantic coastal towns, full of history and southern charm.
