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By Lori Zaino, The Points Guy
With classical cities, idyllic islands, endless sunshine and a world-renowned gastronomy scene, Italy is a destination to visit again and again. Ideal for both first-time travelers as well as seasoned road warriors, Italy has something for everyone.
If this is your first Italian holiday, make sure to visit the most popular areas such as Rome, Florence or the Amalfi Coast. But if you’ve already seen the most iconic Italian destinations and attractions, it might be time to check out a more underrated part of the country.
There are way too many to name in just one article, but here are eight of the most underrated spots in Italy that might inspire you hop aboard a flight.
Naples
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This southern Italian hub is certainly famous, but interestingly not as popular with foreign tourists as many other big-name destinations. In many ways, the less explored side of Naples is still somewhat hidden for travelers wanting a taste of real Italian culture (read: pizza).
From the vineyards of looming volcano Mount Vesuvius to the affordable southern Italian cuisine (it’s the birthplace of pizza) to the city’s numerous cultural attractions (there are seven castles and over 400 churches), Naples is one of the most interesting Italian cities to explore. Plus, it’s the gateway to the picturesque Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri for those looking to add on a more traditional Italian travel experience.
Umbria
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If you want Tuscany vibes but have already been, Umbria should be next on your list. The landlocked region has the best of Tuscany without the tourists and the high prices.
Similar to Tuscany, the dense foliage of Umbria is perfect for autumnal activities like wine tasting or truffle hunting. In fact, grapes in this region are particularly special; make sure to sample white wines made with the local grechetto grape or extra tannic reds made from the sagrantino grape. Visitors can also explore hilltop medieval villages, take cooking classes or get outside by hiking, rafting or cycling.
Ischia and Procida
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Move over, Capri. Ischia is also a short ferry ride from Naples and the Amalfi Coast, but it’s an island frequented by Italian visitors — not international tourists. More affordable, less touristy and just as gorgeous as Capri, the Italian island features a number of thermal pools and hot springs, both black- and white-sand beaches and the towering Aragonese Castle.
For even more Italian charm, hop over to the nearby tiny island of Procida. Its pastel-colored harbor is an immediate draw — it’s no wonder the island has been deemed Italy’s Capital of Culture (the first island to win the title) for 2022.
Bologna
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Fan of Italian food? Bologna’s delicious ragu, ragù alla Bolognese, is a meat-based tomato sauce that hails from the area. But don’t expect to pair it with spaghetti in this town — locals prefer to mix it with tagliatelle, a flatter, ribbon-style pasta, or make lasagna verdi alla Bolognese, which is a lasagna made with the sauce and spinach pasta without ricotta.
Besides eating, there’s plenty to do in this small city, like admiring the UNESCO-recognized porticoes, which are covered, arched walkways (some date back to the Middle Ages). The city also has canals, mainly located in an area known locally as Little Venice.
Read More: 10 Beautiful Secret Islands in Italy
Bergamo
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An easy day trip from Milan, Bergamo‘s citta alta is a historical hilltop paradise, encircled in fog and Venetian walls. The old city is like a step back in time, with its cobbled streets, centuries-old churches and the signature bell tower in Piazza Vecchia.
Wandering the city without a plan is the best way to pass the time. Weave through the hilly streets, stopping into small artisan boutiques and visit the town’s cathedral, the Duomo. Make sure to snack on a polenta e Osèi dessert, which is a corn-based pastry filled with rum and hazelnut.
Val di Noto, Sicily
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The Baroque towns of Sicily’s Val di Noto (Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo, Ragusa and Scicli) are some of the island’s most charming destinations — and they’re all considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
However, visiting this area will require you to rent a car, and you’ll have to drag yourself away from Taormina’s charm or Palermo’s Arab-Norman architectural sites.
You don’t have to see each and every town, but do spend at least a day or two climbing the hills of the Val di Noto, stopping to enjoy the dramatic Baroque ambiance of the area.
Ponza
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If you’re itching to see Rome but also need a little island time, consider a visit to Ponza, the largest of the Pontine Islands. From Rome, take a train ride and then a hydrofoil boat from the Anzio Port, and a few hours later you’ll be exploring Ponza’s rocky cliffs and sea caves.
Ponza is often compared to Amalfi Coast — but without the hordes of international tourists or the commensurately exorbitant prices. The island’s clear waters are especially apt for divers, but those wanting to stay on dry land can hike, visit Roman ruins or traverse the island’s many beach coves by boat or scooter rental.
Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta and Lake Iseo
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Lake Como and Lake Garda get all the fame, but northern Italy has many other lakes that are relaxing and beautiful spots for a vacation without too many tourists.
Lake Maggiore actually spans two countries, Italy and Switzerland, and therefore offers visitors a distinct Swiss-inspired charm. With a number of different gardens, anyone who loves a scenic floral stroll should head to this lake.
Lake Orta is one of Italy’s smaller lakes and is often frequented by the Italian creative set. Orta is especially charming and provides artistic inspiration thanks to San Guilo, a tiny, scenic island that sits in the lake.
Lake Iseo is where you should go to really hide away from tourists. Iseo’s main island, Monte Isola, is so stunning, it made our list of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Read More: 7 Italian towns you have to visit
Bottom line
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Whether you want to experience Italy’s most famous attractions or venture off the beaten path, Italy has so much to offer for a trip to Europe. And some of the best Italian vacations often combine doing something typically seen as touristy with something decidedly more underrated.
Our top tips? Pair Rome with Ponza, Naples with the Amalfi Coast, Milan with the northern lakes or Capri with Ischia. Doing this allows visitors to absorb all the best cuisine, monuments, attractions and local traditions Italy has to offer.
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