Known for its history, art and — of course — cuisine, Italy is at the top of most travelers’ must-visit lists. However, this also means it can get a bit overrun with tourists trying to get that perfect “look I’m holding up the Tower of Pisa” selfie. Insert eye roll.
Of course, there’s no shame in the tourist game. There’s good reason to visit those hotspots at least once in your lifetime. But if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten experience in The Boot, here are 11 little-known places to travel to:
1. Lake Resia: Where Time Stands Still
The Lake of Resia is located in one of the most peaceful areas of Trentino-Alto Adige, an area situated in Northern Italy bordering Switzerland and Austria. Lake Resia is an artificial mountain lake and is characterized by the 16th-century, Romanesque bell tower that emerges from its depths. The bell tower is the only visible reminder of the now submerged village of Graun, which was relocated when the reservoir was built.
Kayak Insider Tip: Take advantage of the refreshing lake breeze for some summer kitesurfing or winter snow-kiting.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Parkhotel Laurin from $108 per night.
2. San Fruttuoso and the Christ of the Abyss
There’s a good chance you’ve heard of Portofino before — the fishing village with the celebrity-endorsed resort. But most visitors here, famous or not, don’t know that by hiking certain paths through the Monte di Portofino Regional Park you can reach an intimate and beautiful bay surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. This hidden spot is home to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. Under the waters of the bay stands the Christ of the Abyss, a statue erected underwater in memory of those who have dedicated their lives to the sea. Get ready to get wet as this icon can only be admired from beneath the water.
You can expect the walk to take about 90 minutes over mountainous terrain. If hiking these trails doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can also reach San Fruttuoso by boat from a few coastal villages, like the town of Camogli — worth the visit in its own right. Depending on when you choose to make the trip out to San Fruttuoso, you can relax on the beach and enjoy a lunch of local specialties, or sip a cocktail by the sea.
KAYAK Insider Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque Il Pirata. Half dive bar, half museum, this restaurant is known for its past as a hideout for pirates.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Hotel La Camogliese from $66 per night.
3. Cingoli: The Balcony of Marche
If an incredible landscape and dramatic horizon get your heart racing, then Cingoli is the place for you. This village perched atop a hill in the province of Macerata. It’s known as the “Balcony of the Marche Region” and offers a superb panoramic view of the Adriatic and Cornero Mountains.
Kayak Insider Tip: As beautiful as the scenery is, sometimes you just need a good rush of adrenaline. Test your bravery by visiting Cingoli Avventura adventure park, just a 15-minute drive from the village.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Spoil yourself at the La Quercia Country House B&B, featuring a spa and breakfast buffet, from $46 per night.
4. Il Giardino dei Tarocchi: The Major Arcana
Everyone has heard of, if not visited, Gaudi’s Parc Güell in Barcelona. But very few have heard of Il Giardino dei Tarocchi (The Tarot Garden), a sculpture garden near Tuscany that draws inspiration from the works of Gaudi. Adorned with beautiful carvings depicting the 22 Major Arcana of the Tarot, the garden was born from the imagination of the artist Niki de Saint Phalle and was developed in collaboration with several major contemporary artists.
Kayak Insider Tip: Before or after visiting the garden, take the opportunity to relax on the magnificent Tuscan coastline.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the farmhouse-style Agriturismo Al Vecchio Portico, from $57 per night.
5. Civita di Bagnoregio: The Dying City
Known as “The Dying City” because of the erosion that threatens its existence, this medieval village is considered among the most beautiful in Italy. We recommend this only for the serious adventurers as it is only reachable by foot. Civita di Bagnoregio sits on top of a cliff in the province of Viterbo. Once you reach the village, you can admire the picturesque architecture, walk the winding lanes and eat some incredible local delicacies.
If you’re a fantasy fan, we suggest visiting during winter. The views of the village that emerge from the low-hanging cloud cover are otherworldly.
KAYAK Insider Tip: Take a 30 minute drive from Civita di Bagnoregio to Lake Bolsena, the largest lake of volcanic origin in Europe.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Hotel Columbus, from $56 per night. Located in the town of Bolsena, you’re just a short drive away from medieval streets and castles.
6. Bomarzo: The Park of Monsters
In just under 2 hours from Rome, you can reach Bomarzo Park, also known as the “Sacred Wood.” The park features an abundance of basalt carvings and statues of mythical beasts and monsters. With works dating back to the sixteenth century, it lies within a 7-acre forest and hosts buildings inspired by classical architecture, such as the Leaning House. If you want to spend a day in nature while losing yourself in a maze of ancient surprises, Bomarzo is a place with a fantastical atmosphere to add to your must-see list.
KAYAK Insider Tip: The park does come with an entry cost of about $13 for adults. Renting a car is recommended as it is difficult to reach by public transportation.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Treat yourself at the Starhotel Michelangelo back in Rome, two blocks from Vatican City, starting at $156 per night.
7. The Garden of Ninfa: The Inspiration for That Novel You’ve Been Working On
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. It may come as no surprise that one group that has found inspiration for their works here 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.
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 from $71 per night.
8. Rocca Calascio: A Stunning Medieval Landscape
Within the Gran Sasso National Park is Rocca Calascio, one of the highest fortresses in the whole of Italy — 4,790 feet high to be exact. The castle, perched on a mountain ridge, gives a 360-view over the valley of Tirino and the Navelli Uplands. Once you arrive, you may recognize the view from films such as Lady Hawke and The Name Of The Rose. The fortress was abandoned in the mid-twentieth century along with the ancient medieval village of Calascio below, but was renovated in the 80s and can now be visited for free.
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 in Pescara is close to the sea, close to great food and shopping, and starts at only $46 per night.
9. Sant’Agata de ‘Goti: Between History and Mystery
In the commune of Benevento, there’s a 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. Visit the perfectly preserved town and, after tasting the excellent wines of Aglianico and Falanghina, take a walk over the Martorano Bridge.
KAYAK Insider Tip: If you’re visiting the area and have an interest in history, cue your best happy dance. Visit the Arch of Trajan and the 2nd century Roman Theatre for a taste of what the region has to offer.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Attico Partenopeo B&B in Naples from $88 per night.
10. The Red Rocks of Arbatax: The Magic of Sardinia
Sardinia is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. While the classic beach resorts are popular for a reason, step off the beaten track and visit Ogliastra to admire the view of the red porphyry rocks. Located a short distance from the port of Arbatax, look out for them if you arrive by ferry — they’re guaranteed to make you fall for Sardinia instantly.
KAYAK Insider Tip: If you you’re looking for a contrast to the red, check out the annual Rocce Rosse Blues Festival that in its 25 years has featured artists like Bowie, Lou Reed and B.B. King.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Arabastar Hotel from $57 per night.
11. La Scala dei Turchi: The Pirate’s Ladder
This place owes its name to its history as the landing place used by Turkish pirates, where they sought shelter after raiding the Italian countryside. Be sure to check out the wall of jagged limestone rock overlooking the sea and the beaches that slope into the Mediterranean.
KAYAK Insider Tip: Less than a 20-minute drive from the ladder, you’ll find the incredible UNESCO World Heritage of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. The site is an archaeological marvel showcasing Greater Greece art and architecture.
KAYAK Accommodation Tip: Stay at the Hotel Kore in Sicily from $63 per night.
So, start your adventure into the lesser-known with any of these places guaranteed to take your breath away. And if you happen to posts a few #humblebrag photos, that’s great too (just be sure to tag us so we can see).
Methodology: Hotel prices based on a double-occupancy room for check in: Friday, August 18 until check-out: Saturday, August 19, unless otherwise stated. Prices, availability, and cancellation policies may vary. Please check actual provider policies before making a reservation.
Header Image Attribution: Rolf E. Staerk/Shutterstock.com
