The Idealista website has selected 5 unique places in Italy with an authentic atmosphere, where there are no queues at the sights. We have translated this material for you.
1. Castelsardo, Sardinia
Location:north-west coast of Sardinia, province of Sassari
This medieval town, founded by the Genoese in the 12th century, seemed to have stepped out of the pages of a chivalrous novel. Its fortress, Castello dei Doria, stands on a rocky cliff, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Asinara.
There are many beautiful sandy beaches in the Castelsardo area.
The Council: In the city, it's worth trying fish soup and lobster dishes at a restaurant overlooking the sea.
Interesting fact:Castelsardo is on the list of the most beautiful small towns in Italy.
2. Ischia, Campaign
Location:the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, near Naples
Unlike glamorous Capri, Ischia has retained its authentic character. This volcanic island is famous for its thermal springs, which were used by the ancient Romans.
Italian experts recommend visiting the famous Aragonese Castle, taking a dip in the springs at the Poseidon Gardens Thermal Park, and heading south to the wild beaches of Sant'Angelo.The Council:Be sure to try the local Limoncello liqueur and rabbit in wine sauce.
3. Narni, Umbria
Location:Central Italy, Umbria region
Most tourists heading to the Umbria region of Italy tend to Assisi. The city is famous for the cathedral dedicated to St. Francis.However, to explore the real Italy, it is better to go to Narni, the real pearl of the province of Terni, where there are practically no visitors.
Narni lies at the top of a hill, offering stunning views, especially beautiful and romantic at sunset.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit the local museum, which houses magnificent works of Italian art.Stroll through the charming streets, taking in the sights of the 14th century: San Giovenale Cathedral, Palazzo dei Priori and Palazzo del Podesta.
The Council:Try the local cuisine, such as pasta manfrigoli with pecorino cheese, beans and guanciale, an Italian delicacy made from dried pork.
4. Syracuse, Sicily
Location:east coast of Sicily
Founded by the Greeks in 734 BC, this city is a real open-air museum.
Syracuse boasts a beautiful historical center, a maze of narrow streets, monuments of Greek, Roman and Arabic architecture, Baroque churches, palaces.
The city has preserved a Greek theater and a Roman arena, which once served for gladiatorial fights. Perhaps the most visited attraction of Syracuse is the botanical garden with caves, from which limestone was mined in the old days for the construction of buildings.
The Council:Pay tribute to the local gastronomy by enjoying the freshest seafood and delicious snacks.
5. Matera, Basilicata
Location:Southern Italy, Basilicata region
The old part of the city, hollowed out in the rocks, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993. The place is considered one of the oldest on Earth. The first settlements date back to the sixth millennium BC.
Byzantine frescoes have been preserved in the ancient churches located in the rock.
In the unique cave dwellings of Matera, you can have lunch and even spend the night.Getting to this remote corner of Southern Italy is not so easy, which is probably why the place remains little known. Nevertheless, in 2022, the city was named the most hospitable on the planet.
The Council:The best way to discover the charm of Matera is to wander through its charming streets and courtyards, absorbing its rich history and vibrant culture with every step.
Undervalued regions of Italy in terms of tourism potential
While Tuscany, Rome or the Amalfi coast are in the center of universal adoration, the provinceThe brand is getting less attention.
Located between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, the province enchants with its green hills, charming medieval villages and pristine beaches. And all this beauty without the crowds of tourists!
Marche is often compared to Tuscany due to its picturesque landscapes and rich culture, but the regions are not comparable in terms of atmosphere. Cities such as Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ascoli Piceno, with its stunning travertine squares, do not suffer from an excessive influx of tourists, although they have all the prerequisites for this.
In addition to Marche, the undervalued regions of Italy includeMolise, known for its untouched nature and preserved medieval lifestyle, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, where alpine landscapes are combined with Venetian-style architecture.
Source: Idealista
