Italy is a country that deserves repeat visits because of its classical towns, picturesque islands, year-round sunlight, and delicious cuisine. Italy is a fantastic destination for novice and seasoned tourists for various reasons.
See Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast if it’s your first trip to Italy. If you’ve already visited the top sights in Italy, it may be time to go to less well-known regions. There are far too many to mention in a single piece, but if you need convincing to book a journey to Italy, consider these nine lesser-known gems.
Sperlonga
Between Rome and Naples lies the stunning beach hamlet of Sperlonga. It’s in the province of Latina, approximately two hours drive south of Rome. Sperlonga, a more sedate Mediterranean beach village, is an ideal place to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of larger urban centers.
The Latin word “spelunca,” meaning “cave” or “grotto,” is where the name “Sperlonga” comes from. The Sea Grotto at the Villa of Tiberius dates back to the 1st century A.D.
According to legend, Emperor Tiberius hosted lavish parties in the cave at sea level, complete with performances by eminent musicians of the day. Whether or not it’s suitable for parties, the grotto is a stunning example of Roman construction.
The sunsets along the Tyrrhenian coast are spectacular, with a backdrop of the islands of Ventotene and Ponza. Despite being October, Sperlonga still enjoys a mild summer, making it an ideal destination for a beach vacation. During August, when many Romans try to avoid the city’s oppressive heat, the town may become rather congested, although visitors tend to avoid it.
Tiber Island
Tiber Island, just a short distance from the Colosseum, is often skipped by tourists in favour of more well-known attractions. The island is shrouded in mystery; stories abound on what is, surprisingly, the world’s smallest inhabited island. It is located amid the Tiber River and has a long history of significance in the healing arts. And although the ancient temple of Aesculapius once stood here, the island is now home to a collection of charming antique structures. It’s a great place to relax after seeing one of Rome’s many bustling tourist sites or to start exploring the city’s less-trodden neighbourhoods.
The tranquillity of Tiber Island makes it seem like a world apart from the bustling attractions of Rome. The beautiful historic structures, such as the Basilica of Saint Bartholomew, and the lush trees that line the streets make this area seem like an oasis in the middle of the city.
Naples
Despite its notoriety, this southern Italian centre is not nearly as popular with international visitors as other major attractions. This less-touristed area of Naples nonetheless has many secrets for visitors seeking an authentic experience of Italian life.
See one of Italy’s most fascinating cities in, Naples. Mount Vesuvius’s vineyards are worth a visit, as are the city’s many museums and cultural landmarks (Pizza was invented in Naples, after all) (seven castles and over 400 churches).
Additionally, it’s the jumping-off point for visits to the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Capri, two other classic Italy destinations that may be easily combined with a trip to Naples.
Cefalu
Cefalu, a city in northern Sicily near Palermo, is a beautiful cultural centre. The area’s Arabic and medieval architecture stands in striking contrast to the Mediterranean’s azure waves. The town’s Duomo, a cathedral with beautiful mosaics in the historic centre, is a major tourist draw.
La Rocca of Cefalu is a short hike away and offers stunning views of the shore and historic ruins. Cefalu is home to some of the best seafood in the region, so book a table at a waterfront eatery and feast on the day’s catch.
Collodi
Collodi is located between the more well-known destinations of Cinque Terre and Florence, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that it has fewer visitors than either of those cities. However, if you want to see something unique in Tuscany, don’t miss this ancient town from the 12th century. Historic structures spill down the slope, with beautiful houses, gardens, and even a castle to explore.
Relive your youth at Pinocchio Park in Collodi. The author spent his formative years in this house, where he conjured up many of his fanciful tales. Beautiful statues of his works decorate the verdant park, the centrepiece of which is the enormous whale that, in the narrative, consumes Pinocchio.
Italy is one of the world’s top tourist destinations due to its stunning landscapes, which include a magnificent coastline, several picturesque towns, and breathtaking countryside. Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, including Rome, Venice, and Florence, are jam-packed with incredible works of art and architecture. The only drawback is that word of this phenomenon has spread far and wide, leading to overcrowding in Italy.
These places are great, no question, but Italy is also full of lesser-known gems that are well worth seeing for their breathtaking scenery, delectable cuisine, and opportunities to mingle with the people, all without the hassle of crowds, lines, or terrible tourist menus. If you want to get a true taste of Italy, skip the tourist traps and go to some of the lesser-known regions instead.
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