Italy, the land of romance, history, and unparalleled cuisine, is often synonymous with tourist hotspots like Rome, Venice, and Florence. But beyond these well-trodden paths lie hidden gems that offer an authentic slice of Italian life, far from the bustling crowds. Welcome to “10 Most Underrated Italian Towns to Travel to in 2024,” where we unveil enchanting destinations that promise rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and the warm hospitality of local communities.
To bring you the very best of these hidden treasures, I’ve teamed up with fellow travel bloggers who are experts in their field. Each location on this list is handpicked and recommended by a different travel expert, ensuring a diverse and well-rounded selection of Italy’s lesser-known wonders.
Get ready to explore Italy’s best-kept secrets and discover why these charming towns should be on every traveller’s bucket list this year!
Dolceacqua
Recommended by Alicia at The Chaos Diaries
Nestled in the Ligurian region of Italy, Dolceacqua is a quaint medieval village full of timeless charm and stunning scenery. Start your exploration at the Ponte Vecchio, an elegant arched bridge that has inspired many artists, including Claude Monet. This iconic structure connects the newer part of the village to the ancient district known as Terra. As you cross, you’ll be greeted by narrow cobblestone streets, lined with rustic houses and charming shops selling local crafts and delicacies.
A visit to the Doria Castle is a must. Perched on a hill, this 12th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside. The castle, rich in history, provides insights into the region’s medieval past and hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. Admission is typically around €6, with reduced rates for children and seniors.
Dolceacqua is also renowned for its wine production, particularly Rossese di Dolceacqua. Stop by one of the local wineries for a tasting session and learn about the traditional winemaking process. The village’s eateries serve delectable Ligurian cuisine, with dishes featuring fresh seafood, local olive oil, and aromatic herbs.
Trapani, Sicily
Recommended by Becki at Meet Me In Departures
If you’re looking for an underrated Italian town, you can’t beat Trapani in west Sicily.
Often overlooked by Palermo, the island’s capital, or Catania at the foot of Mount Etna on the east of the island, Trapni is a little hidden gem, still a little rough at the edges and full of Italian charm.
There’s plenty to do in and around this city for several days making the city a great base.
At the heart of Trapani is its old town, a compact area that has mostly managed to avoid gentrification. Although the more modern part of the town is a little more expansive, the old town is best explored on foot.
Spend a morning wandering the photogenic streets like Via Garibaldi, Corso Italia, and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where you’ll discover beautiful buildings ranging from Baroque to Art Nouveau styles.
Don’t miss walking along the ancient sea wall at Mura di Tramontana – the best time is sunset – starting from Piazza Mercato del Pesce to the old Bastione Conca, where you can soak in views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
You can take in most of the sights of Trapani in a day, however, there are plenty of attractions nearby. One of the most impressive is Erice Medieval Town. Take the cable car up to this hilltop settlement and spend the day exploring this gorgeous walled city.
Trapani found its wealth in the trading of salt, so a half-day trip is to the nearby Salt Pans is also worth doing to find out about the hisotry of the area – go at sunset and the salt glows golden!
Another easy trip is to island hop over to Favignana. Take the hydrofoil from the port in Trapani, and spend the day on gorgeous sandy beaches with crystal clear waters.
For a tasty breakfast or brunch, head to Brigantes located near the old fish market square, they offer everything from fresh fruit and yoghurt to a variety of croissants and pastries. In the evening, treat yourself to a meal at Trattoria Cantina Siciliana. This award-winning spot is renowned for its fresh cuscus and local flavours.
While Trapani is wonderful year-round, the best times to visit are late spring, early summer, and autumn. October is particularly pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and warm seas.
Siena
By Mal & Robin of RentingACarInEurope101
Located in the heart of Tuscany, Siena is a stunning medieval city that offers a unique glimpse into Italy’s rich history and culture. While it often sits in the shadow of Florence and Pisa, Siena is an underrated gem that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. You can fly into Rome and rent a car, making the scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside to this interesting city.
Siena is famed for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and the iconic Piazza del Campo, a grand shell-shaped square where the thrilling Palio horse race takes place twice a year. Wander the narrow, winding streets, and you’ll find charming shops, historic landmarks, and delightful eateries. Make sure to visit the Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with intricate frescoes and striking black-and-white striped marble.
For a memorable meal, head to Osteria Boccon del Prete for traditional Tuscan dishes or La Taverna di San Giuseppe for an upscale dining experience with a wine cellar that dates back to the Etruscan era. Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies such as ribollita, a hearty vegetable soup, and pici, a thick, hand-rolled pasta typically served with rich meat sauces.
The best time to visit Siena is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are thinner. Whether you’re exploring the impressive museums, like the Museo Civico, or simply enjoying the city’s medieval charm, Siena offers a truly authentic Italian experience.
Lucca
Audra Morris at The Nerd Traveler
Lucca is a charming and historic town in the Tuscan region of Italy, located near Florence and Pisa.
The churches in Lucca welcomed travelers for centuries as part of the Via Francigena, or holy pilgrimage route – the Basilica di San Frediano with its gorgeous gold mosaic, the Cattedrale di San Martino with its labyrinth carved on a pillar near its bell tower, and the Basilica di San Michele with its wonderful sculptures and statue of Michael the Archangel on the top.
The historic city wall has paths for walking or biking and not only observing the gardens and buildings within the city wall but also the Tuscan landscape outside the city.
The restored Roman Amphitheater – now converted into a piazza full of residences, shops, and restaurants – is located near the Basilica di San Frediano.
As far as restaurants, try the delicious sandwiches at Da Ciacco in the Piazza Napoleone (named for Napoleon’s sister Elisa who he put in charge of the area) and delicious homemade pasta at Buca di San Antonio near the Basilica di San Michele.
Lucca has become a destination for music lovers in the summer months thanks to the Lucca Summer Festival.
In the Fall, Lucca hosts a comics and games festival, or a comic con, in late October and early November.
In the Spring, travelers can look forward to flower festivals with pleasant temperatures and lower rain chances.
Lucca is truly a wonderful place to have an authentic Tuscan experience for a day or even longer.
Castellammare del Golfo Sicily
Recommended by Marianne at Galavanting the Globe
Castellammare del Golfo is definitely an underrated town in Sicily, Italy. Known for its beautiful harbour, amazing beaches, and incredible seafood, this small coastal town is only an hour’s drive from Sicily’s capital, Palermo.
No matter what your interest is, you will find something to keep you busy in Castellammare. From visiting the museum inside the 6th-century Arab-Norman Castle to shopping for souvenirs in the boutiques at Quattro Canti, taking a stroll through the town can be quite an adventure.
Head to the marina area to enjoy the scenic harbour for some great photography, incredible seafood restaurants, and quaint cafes. Or, hop on a boat for a day cruise along the coast.
For nature lovers, the Zingaro Nature Reserve is a must-see. It offers scenic hiking trails, a small but very pretty beach, and a chance to explore some pretty cool grottos.
The Spiaggia Plaja is Castellammare del Golfo’s best beach with clear, shallow waters and sandy shores. The beach is lined with restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias, as well as a small midway that is open during summer evenings.
When it comes to food, Castellammare del Golfo won’t disappoint. Try Gelateria Vernaci for the best gelato in Sicily. For pizza, Pizzeria QuattroCanti is the place to go. And for seafood lovers, La Tonnara offers delicious dishes and an outdoor patio where you can watch the sunset.
The best time to visit Castellammare del Golfo is in spring and fall. The weather is warm, and it’s less crowded. Summer is great for beach lovers, but just a heads up, it can get really hot and really busy!
If you are looking to explore outside of town, renting a car would be pretty useful. However, if you are just planning to stay in town, the main part of Castellammare del Golfo is easy to walk around.
Portovenere
Recommended by Vanessa Morgan at Traveling Cats
When visiting the Cinque Terre region of Italy, it’s easy to overlook the town of Portovenere, part of the Gulf of La Spezia. Although not officially part of this renowned area, it’s right next to it and therefore an ideal starting point for exploration.
Portovenere is similar to the nearby towns, but – dare I say it – more charming than the more famous Manarola and Vernazza. You might want to spend more time here than in the other parts of the region.
Must-see sights include the Church of St. Peter perched on a rocky promontory and the picturesque Doria Castle. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, and visit Byron’s Grotto.
From Portovenere, you can easily explore the adjacent coastal villages of the Cinque Terre as well. There is a ferry that allows you to hop on and off wherever you like throughout the day.
The restaurants in Portovenere are all located at the bottom of the town, lining the port. Dining here in the evening is magical. Every restaurant I tried was good, so you can’t go wrong. Just pick the one with the best view.
There are no big hotels in Portovenere, but plenty of privately owned rooms, houses, and AirBnB options. You can often rent an entire house for a low price. These rentals are high quality, spacious, and offer stunning views. Since Portovenere is just outside the famous Cinque Terre, it’s more affordable than staying within the Terre region itself.
Bassano del Grappa
Recommended by PlacesofJuma
The romantic town of Bassano del Grappa is located in the north of Italy and is a real jewel if you are looking for a very special und underrated place to visit in Italy. The medieval historic centre, located on the banks of the Brenta river, is a true jewel of charm and beauty. The landmark of the city is the red bridge called “Ponte Vecchio”. The history of this bridge dates back to the 13th century. Today it is one of the most popular places in the city for taking pictures.
The many grappa distilleries are another highlight of Bassano del Grappa. Here you can have a taste of the local liquor and learn more about its production. But there is more! For those with an interest in art and culture, there is the Bassano Civic Museum, the Palazzo Sturm Museum and the Ernest Hemingway Museum.
Bassano del Grappa can be visited at any time of the year. During the warmer months, from April to October, the landscape is particularly beautiful. At this time of the year you can have a seat in the piazza and soak up the atmosphere. Plus, the area also offers many opportunities for sporting activities such as hiking, cycling, paragliding and even rafting.
It is best to plan a stay of at least 2-4 days if you would like to go on some excursions. Not far away are the cities of Verona, Vicenza and Padua – some of the other jewels of Italy!
San Nicola Arcella
Janet at Practical Travel Concepts
With the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west and the Pollino mountains to the east, San Nicola Arcella is an underrated Italian town that promises stunning landscapes, rich history, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. Our charming little village offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Italian adventure.
One of the main attractions in San Nicola Arcella is the Arco Magno, a natural sea arch that creates a picturesque cove perfect for swimming. The clear, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs provide an ideal setting for relaxation and exploration. Other highlights include our historic center, with quaint winding alleyways, and the evening sunset over the sea.
For the history buff, the Torre Crawford, an ancient watchtower overlooking the sea, offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The nearby Dino Island, accessible by boat, features blue grottoes perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
When it comes to dining, San Nicola Arcella doesn’t disappoint. There are plenty of restaurants in town serving delicious Calabrese cuisine, including fresh seafood and locally grown produce. Ristorante La Terrazza del Principe is a great spot to admire the old town and coastline as it twinkles in the evening.
The best time to visit San Nicola Arcella is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is warm. June and September are particularly good, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, San Nicola Arcella provides an enchanting escape that showcases the best of Calabria’s natural and cultural treasures. Make sure to include this hidden gem in your travel itinerary for an unforgettable Italian experience.
Cannobio
Samantha Wragg at Coco Travels
Cannobio is an Italian town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, the third largest lake in Northern Italy. Lake Maggiore is lesser known than Lake Garda or Lake Como and therefore you’ll find the towns in the area are quieter in terms of tourism.
Cannobio is easily accessible by car and train, and you can even catch a ferry over from all the major ports in Switzerland and Italy. The journey here is beautiful with far reaching views across Lake Maggiore.
Cannobio is a picturesque town in the Italian Lakes with colourful buildings, high end shops, and plenty of restaurants.
Head to the lido for a swim in the lake, take part in some water sports and soak up the sunshine, or wander the cobbled streets and stop for a gelato along the way. There’s also a market here on a Sunday selling local produce, crafts, and clothing.
Many of the restaurants overlook the lake so you can grab some pizza or pasta here and watch the boats go by. Take a walk along the promenade and admire the 17th century buildings. Cannobio is the last town before the Swiss border, so you can easily pop into Switzerland from here too.
If you want to get away from it all, head behind the town into the mountans fo the Cannobina Valley for some excellent hiking.
The best time of year to visit is May, June, and the beginning of July, when the weather is getting warmer but the summer season hasn’t officially started yet.
Valle di Cembra
Recommended by Lavina at Continent Hop
Valle di Cembra, which literally translates to the Cembra Valley, is an underrated town in the North of Italy.
What truly sets this region apart is its breathtaking natural beauty, sharing the majestic Dolomites with its neighbour Austria. Italy is famous for its food, and Valle Di Cembra also delivers an excellent variety – from organic gelato to homemade cheese, with agritourism as its major focus. However you will also find quite a few things to do here.
Pay a visit to the Segonzano pyramids – apparently present here since the Ice age, these ‘hidden’ pyramids are made from earth and stones and are a natural phenomenon. Enjoy the forest while you’re visiting!
Check out Castello di Segonzano, a medieval fortress that overlooks Valle Di Cembra. While the castle itself is almost in ruins, the view from is breathtaking. Stop at the Cascata del Lupo, a stunning waterfall in the area that makes for a great hike if you like the outdoors.
Make these things part of your Italy itinerary, and then in the evening, head to the numerous taverns and restaurants in the area to enjoy traditional meals and wine produced locally in the vineyards nearby.
Ristorante Baita Alpina and Fattoria Le Mandre are some fab restaurants in the area where you can have a meal.
The best time to visit is honestly all year round, as the Dolomites are stunning no matter the season!
