The Hidden Italy: Underrated Regions That Beat the Crowds and Deliver Big 

Planning holidays to Italy often means many travellers visit Rome, Florence and Venice. But if you want to experience something special, find some of Italy’s little-known attractions. You’ll find all kinds of undiscovered places in Italy, from those peaceful middle-of-no-where villages to coastal cities still shielded from busy tourism. 

Just recall taking in the streets of Matera, known for its beautiful ancient homes built by cave dwellings. A trip to the quiet but beautiful region of Le Marche gives you the chance to eat real Italian cuisine away from the busy places. These hidden places in Italy give tourists interesting traditions as well as a chance to taste their unique flavours. 

For a more interesting trip, we suggest preparing travel tips for Italy: learn the basics of Italian speech, sample the dishes of the regions and enjoy how things move slower in the most hidden spots. With Travelodeal you can find these beautiful places and still experience the best of Italy that tourists don’t always get to see. If you haven’t yet, try a trip that reveals the true character and beauty of Italy! 

Region Spotlight: Emilia-Romagna – The Heart of Culinary Excellence 

Even though many people hear about Tuscany and Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna still encounters many wonderful Italian cuisine. Those interested in food should come to this area of Italy, as it produces a lot of Italy’s favourite recipes and ingredients.  

This area is talked about in Italian cooking circles because of its unique customs and original foods. Thanks to the iconic Bolognese sauce and incredible tortellini, the area’s valuable history is well known. Adding Parmigiano-Reggiano and Modena balsamic to your dishes can make any food taste significantly better.  

Not only can you eat all the amazing dishes, but in Emilia-Romagna, you will also see Bologna and Parma’s towns, filled with colourful markets filled with local items. During your walk through the city, you’ll find plenty of special food and traditions that regular tourists might overlook.  

So, why not check out somewhere you haven’t heard much about? While in Emilia-Romagna, you’ll enjoy wonderful meals and end your trip both refreshed and well-nourished. 

Sicily’s Secret Spots: Beyond the Tourist Trail

Rome and Venice are top choices for many on package holidays to Italy, but travellers can find many awesome places that are less known throughout Sicily. If you visit the crowded areas, you’ll also find a network of less popular towns that give an interesting look at how Sicilians live and celebrate. 

If you can picture roaming the colourful streets of Cefalù, you’ll see their fishing boats bordering the water and find cosy cafes offering arancini on the menu. If you prefer, visit Enna located in the centre of Sicily—it’s set above the land with amazing vistas and an ancient history. Such towns give you wonderful views and allow you to be near friendly Sicilian hosts. 

Going to Sicily outside of the main season means you get to enjoy these gems with less crowd. Because things are less crowded, it’s easier to connect with local people and see the real Sicily.  

Exploring Abruzzo: The Untouched Natural Beauty

Abruzzo, usually forgotten behind its famous neighbours, is a region worth discovering. This area has national parks full of Italy’s most amazing views. Being able to choose your favourite sport from steep Gran Sasso to the peaceful lakes of Sila is the main attraction for visitors to Abruzzo. Both hikers and strollers will find trails that suit them here, letting you appreciate nature’s purity. 

The region is impressive beyond its landscape; you’ll find rare adventures that will make you fall in love with Abruzzo. Keep in mind that you’ll be walking in the forest to spot uncommon wild animals and then relish your evening devouring typical Italian cuisine dishes. You find easily that the food is just as varied as the scenery, with meals cooked from fresh things grown on land and found in the sea. 

Exploring this region will help you get to know the region’s nature and find out more about its true culture and flavours as you go. It offers adventure and true Italian life—making it easy to discover all this unique area has.  

The Enchantment of Le Marche: Art and Landscape Combined

Le Marche which is in central Italy, is best known for its special blend of art and beautiful nature. While the scenery here is incredible, visitors also discover the area’s rich cultural history. Any itinerary in Le Marche should plan visits to the lovely villages, all with their own rich and appealing histories. 

When you walk on the cobblestone streets of Urbino and Ascoli Piceno, you’ll discover many unique artistic wonders from the region’s history. The vibrant Renaissance architecture and rich local traditions have made Le Marche’s art cities popular with select travellers. 

Travelling through Le Marche isn’t complete without having some local specialities. Traditional dishes from Italy’s past are represented in these places and handed down throughout the community. Handmade pasta and wonderful local grape-based drinks at every meal bring the lands and people’s stories to your plate.  

Puglia’s Coastal Charms: Discovering Trulli and Seaside Villages 

Puglia might seem less well-known than neighbouring regions, but it has plenty of amazing seaside spots visited by just a few people so far. Many of the homes you’ll spot on your visit to Puglia are trulli houses and their special shape and history make everyone here proud. Along with being architectural gems, they tell us what life was really like for people in the region.  

Puglia isn’t only well known for its old monuments. Most of the top Italian beaches are by the coast and you’ll also find some peaceful, calm places. Going to places few people know will make you feel like you’re enjoying soft sand and plentiful clean water. 

Besides its beautiful scenery, a trip to Puglia should include its tasty food. Many mouthwatering dishes on the menu here tell the history of Italian cuisine and its rich customs. Fresh seafood from the sea and traditional orecchiette help every meal connect you to what Puglia is all about. 

There’s plenty of reason to experience Puglia’s coast rather than following the usual itineraries. Because of the interesting trulli, lovely villages and mesmerising seaside, you’ll remember Italy’s Apulia forever. 

Conclusion: Why You Should Consider These Underrated Regions for Your Next Italian Adventure! 

It’s simple to want to see Rome, Florence and Venice during your next visit to Italy. If you don’t visit underrated regions, you will miss some of the most original experiences found in Italy. Both in Umbria, known for its natural beauty, and in Puglia, home to amazing beaches, these special places give visitors a rare combination of stunning sites, history and tasty meals, often without a crowd of visitors. 

Travelling to these less crowded destinations lets you enjoy the culture and interact with those who love talking about it. In Asia, you’ll visit lovely villages, see gorgeous grape fields and sample delicious meals made with local ingredients. 

Besides, travelling in small or remote areas strengthens your trip and helps communities that rely on tourism. Taking these less-known regions as your next tourist spot lets you travel sustainably and be part of some of Italy’s most charming places. Put your bags together and get set to explore Italian places that are off the beaten track—they’re worth the trip!