You’ve probably heard of the classic Italy destinations—Rome, Florence, Venice and Tuscany, and the like—but did you know there are plenty of other, lesser-known places for an Italian adventure? Based on our extensive experience planning luxurious vacations in Italy, we’ve put together a list of the off-the-beaten-path Italy destinations you shouldn’t overlook.
Liguria
Liguria is a region located in the northwest of Italy, crisscrossed by both the Alps and the Apennines and bordering the Ligurian Sea. The capital of the region is Genoa, known as the birthplace of pesto, one of the most famous Italian pasta sauces. You can easily get lost in the carruggi, a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets inside the medieval quarter.
Genoa’s architecture is medieval, Baroque, and modern. But, it exudes an authentic feel to it that has been lost in many other cities. This region is often overlooked, and offers some of the best of off-the-beaten-path Italy!
Travelers can enjoy the Italian Riviera on the Ligurian coast, where the famous Cinque Terre towns, small fishing villages, hilltop vineyards, and scenic beaches await. If you’re looking for a private getaway that allows you to enjoy charming small towns, pretty coastline, and outdoor adventures, add Liguria to your list.
Liguria Highlights:
- Visit the Cinque Terre, a collection of five small towns known for their exceptional beauty
- Delight in Ligurian specialties like pasta with pesto, focaccia, and fried ravioli paired with local wines like a crisp, white Vermentino, known as Pigato amongst locals
- Hike the Cinque Terre trails or head to the seaside town of Portofino to admire the yachts that dot the harbor
The Dolomites
Located in the northeast of Italy by the Austrian border, this mountain range offers some of the most incredible mountain views in all of Italy. Outdoorsy travelers can hike in the Dolomites in the summer or hit the slopes in winter. Or, take a scenic hike, but even those who want to spend their entire trip indoors will love this area.
The Dolomites are dotted with small alpine villages that are fun to explore, with views that are quite literally jaw-dropping. Expect rustic but delicious cuisine, featuring dishes like knödel bread dumplings, spinach spaetzle with ham and cheese sauce, and fresh, local asparagus cooked to perfection. There are a number of Michelin star restaurants in this area as well!
Dolomites Highlights:
- Ski or snowboard in some of the most magical surroundings possible on your trip to the Dolomites
- Cozy up in a luxurious ski lodge or high-end hotel with a private fireplace during the winter
- Hike beautiful and quiet trails through the Dolomites, stopping to take in the scenery together
Sardinia
If a relaxing stay by the beach is what you’re after, Sardinia is one of the best Italy under-the-radar destinations out there. This island is home to over 1,000 miles of coastline where you’ll find some of the most spectacular beaches in the whole country. A great alternative to the busier beaches of Sicily or the Amalfi Coast!
The interior of the island is mountainous, meaning there is a great variety in the scenery. Plus, Sardinia is home to an interesting history and culture. Explore ancient cities like Barbagia and Sassari, stopping along the way for romantic meals of fresh seafood and satisfying Vermentino wine.
Sardinia Highlights:
- Stay in a seaside resort, where you can enjoy a private lagoon and lots of sunbathing on white sand beaches
- Head to the small fishing village of Alghero to taste its world-famous lobster
- Visit historical sites like the Giants Tombs of Coddu Vecchiu and the 19th-century BCE structure Nuraghe Santu Antine Torralba
Umbria
The region of Umbria – called Italy’s green heart – should really top the list of off-the-beaten-path Italy locations. Although often skipped over for the better-known region of Tuscany, Umbria offers both easy day trip access to famous cities like Rome, Florence as well as several charming towns that embody Italy’s charm.
It also features green rolling hills, excellent wine bars, and interesting annual festivals. There are many options for hiking in Umbria or a bike tour Umbria style. What more could you ask for in an Italy destination?
Umbria Highlights:
- Check out local festivals like Gubbio’s Festa dei Ceri candle race, the spring festival Calendimaggio in Assisi, and Perugia’s chocolate festival
- Visit natural wonders like the Marmore Waterfall, the Gorges of Nera, or the Monti Sibillini National Park
- Explore charming towns and small cities, including Spoleto, Todi, Assisi, Orvieto, and more
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is located in northeast Italy along the Adriatic Sea. It’s one of the most developed and wealthiest regions in all of Europe, thanks to an economy that runs on agriculture, automobile production, and banking. It’s home to cities like Bologna and beach town Rimini, but also charming medieval towns like Modena, Ferrara, and Ravenna.
If the goal of your vacation is to eat your way through the best of Italy, consider a trip to Emilia-Romagna. It’s often considered the culinary capital of Italy. Specialties like prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar are found everywhere and the Bolognese sauce will surely blow you away. Wash it all down with Lambrusco wine.
Emilia-Romagna Highlights:
- Explore all the amazing flavors of the region firsthand with visits to local producers of Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma and step into the hidden world of balsamic vinegar at a real acetaia
- Learn all about the local Lambrusco grapes followed by a sommelier-led wine tasting session
- Live in the fast lane for the day. Visit the Ferrari museum in Modena and get behind the wheel of a Ferrari Challenge for a few laps around the track
Piedmont
The northwest region of Piedmont, or Piemonte as it’s known in Italy, holds everything from the tall peaks of the Alps to the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, with plenty of famous lakes, cities, towns, and countryside along the way. It’s also an underrated destination in Italy.
On your getaway here, you can visit the famous lakes of Maggiore and Orta, get your fill of outdoor adventure, or head inland to truffle and wine country for Piedmonte cuisine. This is the land of Barolo and Barbaresco as well as the world-famous Alba White Truffle Festival that takes place in the fall each year. It is also home to the Slow Food movement so great meals are certain! Whether you’re outdoorsy or foodie or just looking for the ultimate luxury, Piedmont should pique your interest.
Piedmont Highlights:
- Try truffle hunting for yourselves while learning about this extremely rare luxury food delicacy
- Take a tour of Turin, the region’s capital, to discover the masterpieces of the great architects who celebrated the splendor of the House of Savoy. Enjoy a coffee or chocolate at one of the many historic Art Nouveau-styled cafes or enjoy wine tasting in Turin.
- Enjoy a Michelin-starred meal paired with local Piedmontese wine
How to Find the Right Italy Destination for You
If you’re searching for the ultimate luxury, consider these off-the-beaten-path Italy destinations. Depending on what you’re looking for during your travels, these locations or others might be the perfect fit, and we can help you decide on the right Italy destination for you.
Whether you have your sights set on a particular region or are open to our recommendations, we’ll listen to all your desires and come up with a customized getaway you’ll be talking about for decades to come. Get in touch to start the process or look through our other blogs to gain more Italy travel inspiration!
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