10 impossibly beautiful hidden gems in Italy

Beyond the well-trodden paths of Florence and Rome, there are a lot of hidden gems in Italy waiting to be discovered.

As a seasoned traveller, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the deepest corners of Italy, the ones that aren’t featured on billboards and pamphlets.

In these lesser-known spots, you’ll come face-to-face with the true charm of Italy! 

From Civita di Bagnoregio to Monte Isola, let me take you on a trip through Italy’s best-kept secrets.

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Map of the best hidden gems in Italy

Use my map below to see where all my secret Italian spots are located:

1. Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio

Civita di Bagnoregio is one of those villages that might appear in an old movie as an ancient town full of secret tunnels and mystic magic.

The only real magic in that village, however, is its natural charm.

From the glowing stone walls to the potted flowers on its balconies, every corner of Civita di Bagnoregio tells a story of beauty, history, and culture.

Here’s a quick history lesson: Civita is called the “Dying City” because it’s pretty much a ghost town.

2. Bosa, Sardinia

Bosa is any artist’s dream town. With its authentic, distinctive, and colourful architecture, no one can resist falling in love with it.

What sets this town apart is that it accommodates different types of tourists.

If you’re like me and prefer exploring the urban areas on foot, Bosa is designed for walking, offering an authentic Italian experience with every step.

You’ll see residents laying tomatoes out in the sun to dry while talking to their neighbours about everyday topics. 

Do you prefer a more leisurely pace? Rent a dinghy and explore the wild, untamed coast of Bosa.

Are you a fan of unique landmarks? Nothing can compete with the beauty of the Malaspina Castle and Museo Casa Deriu.

3. Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna

Brisighella is a village of history, warmth, and hospitality. Despite passing under most people’s radar, it’s the perfect city for tourists, and one of my favourite destinations in Italy.

If you’re visiting Brisighella, don’t miss a tour of the Sanctuary of Monticino, the Manfredian Fortress, and the Clock Tower.

Each one of those sites holds a unique piece of history and tells a different story about the village.

If you’re not into sightseeing, you can always feast your eyes on the beautiful landscapes the village offers.

4. Orvieto, Umbria

Orvieto is one of those places that you can’t help but fall in love with. The city is utterly beautiful, and the more you explore it, the more beautiful it becomes.

Here you’ll find ruggedly pretty streets, but the main selling point of this city is its attractions.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is an architectural masterpiece brimming with beauty and history. 

You should also add the National Archeological Museum and the Palazzo del Popolo to your itinerary. 

For a glimpse into Orvieto’s Etruscan roots, explore the town’s underground caves.

These ancient tunnels and chambers will bring a shiver down your spine, but they reveal rich mysteries of a historic era.

5. Monte Isola, Lombardy

I’m not sure why more people aren’t talking about Monte Isola – it is impossibly beautiful and really is one of the best hidden gems in Italy.

Monte Isola is essentially a mountain in the middle of the lake, so you’ll find heaps of natural beauty and an utterly serene atmosphere.

I’d recommend exploring on foot, winding your way through the trees, orchards, vineyards, and pretty hamlets.

For those who prefer sightseeing, the island’s churches and sanctuaries offer a wealth of exploration that’ll keep your itinerary full.

6. Ponza Island, Lazio

Ponza Island is a strong rival to Monte Isola in beauty and allure. I can’t determine my favourite, but I’d argue that Ponza’s crystalline water is more captivating than any other island I’ve ever visited.

If a pristine beach is at the top of your priorities list, Ponza is a must-visit. Though it’s smaller than most, its size only adds to its authentic and intimate allure.

Every restaurant, café, artisan workshop, rambling street, and colourful house on this island screams Italy!

7. Camogli, Liguria

While planning a trip to Italy, you’ll hear plenty of recommendations telling you to visit Genoa. Only a rare minority will tell you to take a 25-minute trip south to Camogli.

After visiting both, I’d choose Camogli over Genoa on any given day.

What sets this village apart is the abundance of activities available at every turn.

From hiking and renting boats to visiting the captivating local shops, every corner of this village has something to engage you.

After a day filled with adventures, you can sit back, relax, and take in the perfect seafront of Camogli.

8. Cefalù, Sicily

I know people have different beauty standards, but I’d argue that Cefalù would make a strong contender for the title of the most beautiful village in Sicily!

It gives access to a 270-metre-high mountain that offers you a unique view of the entire town – I can’t say the same about most villages I’ve visited.

Cefalù is a goldmine for photographers. It has stunning beaches, ancient ruins, unique architectural designs, hilltop castles, and a fortress.

Needless to say, you’ll enjoy a magical trip with memorable experiences and appealing photos.

9. Ascoli Piceno, Marche

Despite my various trips and faded memories, I vividly remember my first impression of Ascoli Piceno. My first thought was that this is a town where time seems to have stood still.

My favourite part of the trip was strolling through the town’s piazza before enjoying a cup of coffee at Caffè Meletti. 

After exploring the piazza, you can marvel at the Romanesque-Gothic beauty of the Church of San Francesco and enjoy Ascoli Piceno’s most popular local dish, olive all’ascolana.

10. Sperlonga, Lazio

To conclude this list with a flourish, I couldn’t find a more suitable gem in Italy than Sperlonga.

Embraced by the Lazio coast, this enchanting town offers breathtaking vistas, delectable cuisine, and a historic charm that promises an exceptional trip.

For an experience that’ll linger in your memory, don’t miss the sunrises and sunsets here – they’re so strikingly beautiful, seemingly plucked straight from the silver screen.

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Sperlonga’s seafood. The town is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes.

You can enjoy seaside eating while taking in the panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Pure bliss!

Do you have any favourite hidden gems in Italy? Let me know in the comments below!

For more Italian inspiration, discover the best Italian coastal towns and my favourite day trips from Rome.