10 Unique Places to Visit in Italy Preferred by Our Travel Specialists

Nestled high in the Dolomite Mountains lies the stunning alpine ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Pedestrian-only cobblestone streets lined with vibrantly colored chalets, upscale shops, and charming cafés quickly reveal the town’s timeless appeal. In winter, advanced skiers and snowboarders glide down expert slopes beneath the backdrop of gleaming granite peaks topped with fresh powder.

In summer, the region becomes a hiker’s paradise, with 360-degree views of towering pinnacles along miles of trails where mountain bikers can soar down single tracks. With its postcard scenery, excellent skiing and riding, and vibrant yet cozy ambiance, Cortina captures the essence of an idyllic Italian mountain escape.

Highlights: Dolomite Superski Circuit • Vista delle Tre Cime di Lavaredo • Rifugio Antonio Locatelli • Sorgenti del Rienza • Pragser Wildsee

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

Sitting on Italy’s northeastern border along the Adriatic Sea, the port city of Trieste is a unique fusion of Italian, Slavic, and Central European influences. Cobblestone piazzas fill with Viennese-style coffeehouses, while ornate palaces and churches exhibit Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.

The Triestinse are welcoming, with a dialect known for its sing-song qualities. Beyond the cosmopolitan cafés and architectural treasures, Trieste’s seaside promenade delights travelers, its beauty accentuating the meandering lanes of the medieval old town.

The surrounding Carso plateau offers wonderful hiking and biking with breathtaking panoramas. With delicious food and wine, storied history, rich culture, and access to adventures, Trieste captures many quintessential Italian elements while retaining a flavor and remaining one of Italy’s hidden gems.

Highlights: Piazza Unità d'Italia • Castello di Miramare • Castello di San Giusto • Cattedrale di San Giusto • Canale Grande

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Nuoru can feel like the physical and metaphorical heart of Sardinia. With its spectacular mountain setting, traditional festivals, and hearty cuisine, the town perches on the slopes of Monte Ortobene and treats travelers to panoramic views of stunning peaks and lush trees.

The medieval Old Town transports you back in time, with annual costumed parades immersing travelers in age-old traditions. Known as the birthplace of succulent porceddu and sweet torrone nougat, Nuoro offers encouraging aromas and promising rewards after hiking in the nearby Gennargentu National Park.

With its picturesque views, cultural immersion, and access to Sardinia’s rugged interior, Nuoro offers a quintessential Sardinian experience that mesmerizes our travel experts.

Highlights: Piazza Sebastiano Satta • Rione Santu Predu • Museo delle Maschere Mediterranee • Madonna delle Grazie Church • Monte Ortobene

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Enchanting, tranquil, and woven into the center of Italy, Lake Trasimeno offers picturesque islands and lakeside medieval towns for a dreamy representation of greater Italy. The shallow blue lake offers miles of pathways perfect for exploring, while kayakers can explore hidden coves along the water.

On Isola Maggiore, stroll quiet walking paths lined with olive and pomegranate trees before enjoying fresh lake fish at a waterside trattoria. The lake’s history comes alive in well-preserved castles built to protect ancient trade routes. With opportunities to soak up nature at a relaxed pace or delve into the region’s rich heritage, Lake Trasimeno is an authentic escape into the Italian countryside.

Highlights: Polvese Island • Isola Maggiore • Isola Minore • Passignano sul Trasimeno • Vernazzano

Recommended length of stay: 4-5 days

The Valnerina Valley nestles between the towering Apennine Mountains in northeast Umbria and captivates travelers with breathtaking alpine scenery, cascading waterfalls, and charming hilltop villages. Walk along the trails through Monti Sibillini National Park, where flower-filled meadows give way to rocky peaks and the Cascata delle Marmore, the largest waterfall in Europe, plunges into an emerald gorge below.

Medieval hamlets like Visso and Norcia display artisanal shops and highlight famous truffle delicacies. In winter, the valley transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing along the scenic ridges. With its pristine wilderness, unique central mountain culture, and abundance of year-round adventure, the Valnerina Valley lets you experience a spectacular and lesser-known side of Italy.

Highlights: Sanctuary of Santa Rita da Cascia • Triponzo • Marmore Falls • Castelvecchio di Preci • Usigni

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

The captivating region of Tuscia is situated just north of Rome, but feels worlds away from the tourist crowds. Tuscia transports travelers back in time with a string of medieval hill towns overlooking the rolling and lush countryside.

Wander cobblestone streets flanked by stone houses adorned with brightly colored flowers or stroll through the fertile landscape alongside tremendous vineyards and thriving olive trees that produce delicious wines and oils.

Tuscia also displays its Etruscan side in the form of ceramic tombs and the renowned Necropolis of Tarquinia, where you can find the famous painted tombs. With its combination of pastoral landscapes and ancient heritage, Tuscia embodies the iconic beauty of the Italian countryside.

Highlights: Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola • Bomarzo Monster Park • Viterbo • Civita di Bagnoregio • Tarquinia

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

The hilltop town of Palestrina overlooks the Roman countryside and captivates visitors with its depth of history and relaxed pace. As you explore the narrow cobblestone streets and winding alleyways, you can quickly uncover treasures from medieval architecture. The star attraction is the towering Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia, a stunning complex boasting terraced gardens, ancient baths, and a semicircular theater with awe-inspiring views.

Palestrina is a delightful exploration for your senses, where oleander dapples the streets, cheerful cafés create an enticing atmosphere, and the nearby Frascati wine region offers samples of surprisingly crisp whites. With layers of history to uncover and a sublime setting to soak up, Palestrina gives an enchanting taste of a less-traveled Italy.

Highlights: Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia • Colonna-Barberini Palace • National Archaeological Museum • Church of Santa Rosalia

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Sitting in Italy’s northeast Friuli region, the city of Udine is a sensational blend of medieval charm, Austrian influences, and celebrated cuisine.

Cafés bustling with locals line grand piazzas and ornate details accentuate the Gothic churches. The culinary scene indulges locals and visitors to Friuli, with delicacies like the prized San Daniele prosciutto.

Udine’s access to stunning natural beauty around the Julian Alps adds to the city’s luster and wonder. Stroll along the narrow central street of Via Mercatovecchio to find boutique shops and hidden frescoes, enjoy a picnic in Ricasoli Garden, or visit the nearby Venetian town of Palmanova. Each new journey reveals a section of undiscovered Italy leading to hidden canals, fascinating waterfalls, landscapes imbued with stories, and more.

Highlights: Basilica di Aquileia • Laghi di Fusine • Cividale del Friuli • Piazza della Libertà • Loggia di San Giovanni

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

The sunny island of Lipari rises out of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. The relaxed ambiance features enchanting coastal and volcanic scenery, delectable cuisine, and adventures on land and sea. As part of the Aeolian archipelago, you can explore the skies at the observatory located on the highest point of the island or embrace the colorful maze of streets in the main town.

Restaurants and cafes overlook the vibrant boats anchored in the marina and Lipari Castle clings to the volcanic rock face nearly 165 feet above sea level. Take a boat trip to see the island’s towering sea stacks and hidden grottos or relax on the quiet beaches known for their panoramic views.

Sample a traditional arancini with ragu sauce, take a break from the Mediterranean heat with a peach granita, or bask in island charm on a scenic boat ride around the archipelago. No matter your preferred experience, Lipari gives a sublime slice of island dolce vita.

Highlights: Quattrocchi Viewpoint • Museo Archeologico Regionale Eoliano • Spiaggia Valle Muria • Castello di Lipari

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Situated in the Piedmont wine region, the undulating hills of Langhe entice oenophiles and gourmands alike with exceptional vineyards, medieval towns, and farm-to-table cuisine.

Vines blanket the rolling landscape and yield some of Italy’s most acclaimed reds, resulting in UNESCO World Heritage status for wine culture. Sample prestigious Barolo and Barbaresco, finding notes of rose petals, cherries, or leather.

Wander alluring medieval villages like La Morra to find a plethora of tasting rooms, Michelin-starred restaurants, and endless bucolic vistas. Truffle hunt, visit a historic castle, cycle along quiet country roads, or linger in a cafe as you watch locals pass by. Langhe meets your expectations of traditional Italian life with a gourmet twist.

With a sublime landscape boasting world-class wine and cuisine, Langhe captures the essence of why our travel specialists consistently rank Piedmont among Italy’s top regions to experience.

Highlights: Barbaresco village • Barbaresco wine tasting • Farm-to-table cuisine • La Morra • Barolo village

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Whether looking for Italy’s hidden gems or interested in seeing Italian arts and crafts during your trip, these places chosen by our Italy travel specialists can introduce you to the spirit of the country.

You can find inspiration for your trip with our Italy tours or enjoy looking for more ideas on what to do, when to visit, and more with our Italy travel guide.