Take these less travelled roads and get to know the real Italy
Italy is one of the favourite destinations for tourists around the world. With popular places like Rome, Venice, Florence, Italy has lots of gems like these in its bag. But nowadays due to the overcrowding of these beautiful places, somewhere the real essence of the Italian culture is lost. The popular cities have become more commercial in their approach and have become more expensive. Therefore, we have found out some of the lesser-known, hidden gems in Italy. These unexplored towns will bring you the old charm of Italy and give you a real taste of the culture. So if you want to experience Italy and its culture in the truest sense, these places are a must-visit.
Pitigliano, Tuscany
This little hill town is straight out of the medieval period. Once home to a large Jewish community, the town is popularly known as Little Jerusalem. The Jewish community was settled there in the 16th century and eventually disappeared by the mid 20th century due to migration for economic reasons and persecution by the Nazis. But you will still find the old Jewish ghetto, where you will find a restored synagogue, traditional bread ovens, and a small museum. The town also offers a 14th-century fortress known as Palazzo Orsini, which has a collection of historical artefacts and a walking path to a series of Etruscan caves called Vie Cave.
Chioggia, Veneto
If you liked Venice but found it overcrowded, we bring you Chioggia, a calmer, sober, and more traditional alternative to Venice. Where Venice has lost its charm in the hustle-bustle, Chioggia still holds the old Italian essence. Chioggia is built around canals and has a traditional fishing port like Venice but without the massive cruise ships and teeming tourist crowds. You can visit the traditional fish market, wander through the water-lined streets and enjoy some of its best seafood restaurants. This place offers a calmer, humbler and slower way of life.
Locorotondo, Puglia
One of the most picturesque towns in Puglia, Locorotondo is one of the white hill towns. The town offers whitewashed walls with boxes windows with pink and red geraniums spilling out. As you approach the town from the valley below you will see the huge dome and tower of the famous cathedral Chiesa Madre San Giorgio. Locorotondo is also known for its white wine.
Spello, Umbria
If you are in the famous town of Assisi and want to escape the crowd, travel to Spello, one of the region’s less-travelled Italian villages. Although Spello is just a 15-minute drive from Assisi, Spello is a whole new world itself that is poles apart from Assisi. The village is quiet and slow in comparison to Assisi and has well-preserved Roman walls and churches. Spello is also home to one of the most beautiful and unique cultural events of Italy, Le Infiorate which is a late-spring festival where murals made of flower petals are laid out throughout the town’s streets and piazzas.
Chiusa/Klausen, Trentino-Alto Adige
With stunning views of mountains all around this small medieval village, Chiusa is one of the most beautiful places to relax and feel closer to nature. Located in the mountainous region north of Venice, Chiusa offers Charming shops, winding cobblestone lanes, and friendly locals. While staying there, you can also trek uphill to the Sabiona Monastery, one of the region’s most important historical sites. Chiusa is also known as Klausen.
