For anyone with an interest in history and culture, there is no country greater than Italy.
Italy is one of the most desirable countries in the world thanks to its incredible history, cultural treasures, food and drink, natural beauty, and gorgeous weather.
You have the obvious cities like Rome and Florence, but there are also many enchanting small towns that can provide a more authentic Italian experience. Here are a few of the best places to consider.
Gubbio
Gubbio is a beautiful medieval town in central Italy.
This charming small town is known for its striking cathedral, baroque chapel, and 16th-century paintings inside.
It is also considered to the ceramics capital of Italy, so it is the best place to be if you want to pick up an authentic Italian bowl or vase!
Atrani
The Amalfi Coast is one of the major highlights of Italy, and it is easy to see why! Many of the towns can be packed during the summer months, but Atrani is somewhat of a hidden gem.
It is slightly off the beaten path, so you can enjoy an authentic experience here with lovely views out to sea, culinary delights, and stunning architecture.
People often want to explore this region, so you might want to consider booking Italy tours that involve walking the Amalfi Coast – this will give you a chance to see the entire area and learn all about it.
Lecce
Regarded by many as the “Florence of the south of Italy,” Lecce is best known for its beautiful architecture and historical attractions.
Here, you can see Italy’s incredible historical heritage with the Roman amphitheater located in the heart of the town.
Despite its attractions, Lecce remains a hidden gem and a great place if you want an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds of tourists.
Trieste
Trieste is an interesting Italian town because it is found at the crossroads of Western and Eastern Europe, so there is a unique culture and way of life here with many influences throughout.
Additionally, many regard Trieste as having the best coffee in all of Italy – certainly a claim that is worth exploring!
Monte Isola
Monte Isola is the place to visit if you really want to escape and enjoy a peaceful destination surrounded by beauty.
A small island in the middle of Lake Iseo, Monte Isola is a car-free island and filled with water-side cafes and restaurants.
This makes it incredibly peaceful and idyllic, so it is a great place for recharging.
Ragusa
Sicily is another popular destination in Italy, and for good reason.
Sicily is a stunning part of the world with gorgeous sandy beaches, warm weather, historic attractions, and tantalizing cuisine.
It can also be a busy region, but Ragusa is a lesser-known part that can provide a more authentic experience with baroque architecture and incredible dining experiences without the hoards of tourists.
If you want an authentic Italian experience, you will want to head off the beaten path and discover Italy’s enchanting small towns.
The above are a few of the best small towns in Italy that have a huge amount to offer without the crowds.
This allows you to fully immerse yourself in Italy’s rich culture and history and discover the idyllic side of Italy that can be hard to find in the major towns and cities.
Check this out next: Is Bologna worth Visiting? A Travellers Verdict
Photo Credit:
Featured Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash
Gubbio Photo by sterlinglanier Lanier on Unsplash
Photo by Freysteinn G. Jonsson on Unsplash
Photo by Matteo Bellia on Unsplash
