Italy is a country well-known for its natural wonders, history, art and, of course, incredible cuisine; but this can be a problem when the classic attractions are so popular that the most famous places are often overrun with other tourists a photo opportunity might actually involve waiting in line for a very long time
Of course, there’s very good reason these tourist hotspots are so popular and they should all be visited at once in a lifetime, but there are literally hundreds of lesser-known sights scattered across Italy that are as beautiful, mysterious and steeped in history; besides, who doesn’t love the feeling discovering something new that you know most of the population have never seen before. To help your adventures into lesser-known Italy we decided to put together a list of places guaranteed to take your breath away while making you feel like an adventurer; perfect if you’re looking for new ideas for a trip to Italy with your friends, family, partner or even as a solo explorer.
We’ve included lakes, villages, private villas, secret gardens, fortresses, fabulous beaches and vistas, and in many cases even a nearby alternative: are you ready to stop following the masses and set out to new frontiers? Let’s leave the beaten path and go to unknown Italy.
Lake Resia: where time stands still
Given the abundance of bodies of water found across Italy, we would have been remiss in not including at least one lake on our list of recommended destinations. The beautiful Lake of Resia is located in one of the most beautiful and peaceful areas of Trentino-Alto Adige, an area situated in very Northern Italy bordering Switzerland and Austria famous for the incredible mountain peaks that rise above it. Lake Resia is an artificial mountain lake is characterised by the 16th-century, Romanesque belltower that emerges from the depths of the lake, the only visible reminder of the now submerged original village of Graun, relocated when the reservoir was built.
Here, especially in winter when the lake freezes over, and you can walk out to the bell tower, it feels like time is standing still, to have to be there to believe it.
- Kayak Insider Tip: Take advantage of the refreshing yet boisterous breeze for some summer kitesurfing or winter snowkiting in this unique setting.
- KAYAK Accommodation Tip: stay at the Parkhotel Laurin from $136 per night. A top luxury hotel with an ‘excellent rating’, it’s within driving distance of Lake Resia while being located in beautiful Bolzano; truly the best of both worlds.
Cingoli: the balcony of Marche
If it’s an incredible landscape and dramatic horizon that gets your heart racing, then Cingoli is the place for you. This beautiful village perched atop a hill in the province of Macerata is also known as the “Balcony of the Marche Region” and offers a superb panoramic view. Stroll through the old town towards the terrace situated on the ancient walls from which you can best enjoy the view landscape below, the Adriatic and Cornero mountain. The view is extra special at sunset when all the other towns are already in shadow, but Cingoli is still illuminated by the sun.
- Kayak Insider Tip: As beautiful as the scenery is, what can one do to get the adrenaline flowing? Test your mettle by visiting the role climbing, tightrope walking, flying foxing adventure park of Cingoliavventura, just 15 minutes drive from the village.
Are you looking for the perfect hotel in the shopping, sightseeing or party district? Use KAYAK Heat Maps to search for what you want, and we’ll display all the hotels close by on a city map. Simply click on ‘Map View’ in the upper left corner on the hotel search page. Now just click which filter you are most interested in, like ‘Nightlife’, and the party zones and corresponding hotels are highlighted.
Civita di Bagnoregio: the dying city
Known as ‘The Dying City’ because of the erosion that threatens its existence, this medieval village, only reachable by foot as it sits on top of a cliff in the province of Viterbo, is considered among the most beautiful in Italy. Once you reach the village, you can admire the picturesque architecture, walk the winding lanes, eat some incredible food in the local restaurants and then gasp audibly at the view out over the surrounding valleys.
If you are a fantasy fan, our advice is to visit during the Italian winter, when views of the village emerging from the low-hanging cloud cover will definitely remind you of middle earth.
- KAYAK Insider Tip: Only 30 minutes’ drive from Civita di Bagnoregio also cars, you’ll find the magnificent Lake Bolsena, the lake’s largest volcanic origin in Europe. Do not miss the opportunity to visit both places.
The garden of Ninfa: find the inspiration for your book
The Ninfa Garden is one of the finest private parks in Italy, yet is unknown to even most Italians. Those who have visited here are quick to describe the gardens as a paradise on earth, especially during the spring bloom. It may come as no surprise that one group that has found inspiration for their works this natural oasis in the province of Latina are members of the literary world, such as Virginia Woolf and Truman Capote. This beautiful park is adorned with lush vegetation and includes the picturesque ruins of the now-defunct medieval town of Ninfa.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own novel or you just want to enjoy the stunning nature, the Gardena is for you.
- KAYAK Insider Tip: The park is only open to the public during certain times of the year, so be sure to check the dates in advance.
- KAYAK Accommodation Tip: stay at Serpa Hotel Anzio and take the chance of a morning dip in the sea before visiting the garden of Ninfa. The hotel has great reviews and prices start from $90 per night.
Rocca Calascio: a stunning medieval landscape
Within the Gran Sasso National Park, at an altitude of 1,460 meters, is Rocca Calascio, one of the highest fortresses in the whole of Italy. The castle, perched on a mountain ridge, gives a 360° view over the valley of Tirino and the Navelli Uplands below. The view is simply breathtaking, and it’s no coincidence that parts of some fantastic films such as ‘Lady Hawke’ and ‘The Name Of The Rose’ choose to shoot here. The fortress, after being abandoned in the mid-twentieth century along with the ancient medieval village of Calascio below, was renovated in the 80s and can today be visited for free (plus they serve great ice cream and coffee in the village).
- KAYAK Insider Tip: If you’re in the Abruzzo territory make sure to take an excursion to the alpine meadow of Campo Imperatore, also known as ‘Little Tibet’. It is an incredible sight any day of the year and located less than an hour’s drive from Rocca Calascio.
- KAYAK Accommodation Tip: The Maison Fleurie is born from a passion for architecture and design. This stylish hotel in Pescara is close to the sea, close to great food and shopping and feels like a luxury but with prices starting from $58, it’s a steal.
Sant’Agata de ‘Goti: between history and mystery
In the commune of Benevento, there is a beautiful village that bears the nickname ‘The Pearl of Sannio’, which, thanks to its peculiar beauty, is often used as a movie set for Italian films. Take a dip into the past by visiting the perfectly preserved town and, after tasting the excellent wines of these areas such as Aglianico and Falanghina, take a walk over the Martorano Bridge. The amazing sunsets that enhance the colours of the overhanging houses built on the rocky ridge above are sure to clear your head.
- KAYAK Insider Tip: If you are visiting the area and have an interest in history you’re going to be proper happy. Visit the Arch of Trajan and the 2nd century Roman Theatre for just a taste of what the region has to offer.
- KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the 4-star, stylish Attico Partenopeo B&B from $111 per night and be in the middle of the Neapolitan action
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La Scala dei Turchi: The pirate’s ladder
This place owes its name to having once been the landing place used by Turkish pirates, where they found shelter after their raids. The panorama that presents itself to those who visit is one of raw beauty. A wall of jagged limestone rock overlooks the sea, standing proudly behind two sandy beaches, sloping gently into the blue of the Mediterranean, creating incredible contrasts. Remember that the sun of Sicily is a strong one, avoid visiting in the middle of the day to enjoy a spectacular sunset over La Scala dei Turchi.
- KAYAK Insider Tip: Less than 20 minutes drive from the ladder, you’ll find the incredible UNESCO World Heritage of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. An archaeological site showcasing one of the most outstanding examples of Greater Greek art and architecture.
- KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the upscale Hotel Kore, a 4-star hotel has great reviews and prices starting from $79 per night.
Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.com.au on 26 September, 2017. The prices are quoted in AUD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
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