Destination: Italy! Hidden Gems to Visit

Italy is one of the most popular places to visit. In 2019, it ranked number five worldwide for countries most visited (after France, Spain, the United States, and China). While well known cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice draw huge crowds, we rounded up a list of some lesser known spots to see that are less populated and might make for a more leisurely, but still perfectly Italian, getaway.

Procida

Head for the smallest island along the Bay of Napels, on the opposite end as Capri, and you will find picture perfect and underrated Procida, which is home to white sand beaches and the beautiful town of Marina di Corricella, where colorful buildings dot the shoreline. Popular films The Talented Mr Ripley and The Postman were both filmed on this tiny island. A fishing town with charm, this is a can’t miss next time you find yourself in Italy.

Procida, Italy

Turin

Northern Italy is home to the city of Turin, which boasts of beautiful architecture and a strong food scene. The city is surrounded by the breathtaking Alps, making for stunning 360 scenery. If you are there in the winter, head to nearby Sestriere, the biggest ski area in the county. If Italian cars hold your heart, check out the rooftop race track at the Ligatto factory.

Turin, Italy

The Borromean Islands, Lake Maggiore

Prefer to island hop your way around Italy? Board in Stresa and head to the three islands of Borromean: Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola del Pescatori. It’s an easy jaunt as the entire area is only 50 acres in total. These fly under the radar islands were a favorite destination of American writer Ernest Hemingway and British royalty dating back to King Henry IV’s wife.

The Borromean Islands, Lake Maggiore

Stromboli

Want to get adventurous in Italy? Make sure to check out the volcanic Aeolian Islands, of which Stromboli is the most recognized. Protected by UNESCO, Stromboli’s beaches are black sand remnants from past eruptions and the volcano almost continually spews lava and erupts ash. Consider spending the day kayaking and paddleboarding in the Tyrrhenian Sea before watching the lava show aboard a boat at dusk: a truly spectacular experience!

Stromboli Volcano, Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy

Bologna

Arguably the biggest foodie city in the county, Bologna is lovingly nicknamed La Grassa: The Fat One. With dozens of restaurants, delicatessens, and gelato places to try, you could spend well over a week eating your way through this beautiful city. Once your stomach is full, walk off your meals exploring one of many medieval towers or visiting the Santuario di Madonna de San Luca, the breathtaking Basilica at the city center.

Bologna, Italy

We only touched on a few of the lesser known spots to check out in Italy. A small country with a big heart, there are countless other places to explore next time you make your way to this beautiful country.