Beyond Amalfi: Discover These 15 Magical Italian Getaways
Every traveler wants to visit Italy because the country presents excellent reasons for such a desire. In 2024, the country welcomed a record-breaking 65 million international visitors, surpassing the number seen before the pandemic. Italy is preparing for a tourism surge, as the anticipated Rome Jubilee is expected to draw 30 million pilgrims in 2025.
Several vacationers prefer to visit peaceful destinations away from heavily crowded tourist areas, such as the Amalfi Coast, where luxurious accommodations cost around $500 per night and seasonal crowds can impede enjoyment. The 2025 Zicasso Luxury Travel Trends Report states that travelers are adjusting their Mediterranean destination preferences due to concerns about overtourism and climate issues.
This guide invites you to explore 15 enchanting Italian locations where breathtaking landscapes and remarkable culture await alongside unforgettable cuisine, all without the crowds.
Matera, Basilicata
Matera offers visitors a journey through time like pages of an old storybook. The city, recognized by UNESCO, features the Sassi districts, which contain stone-carved caves where its early inhabitants once lived. Following its esteemed tenure as the European Capital of Culture, Matera experienced a remarkable 30% surge in its tourist numbers.
Former caves now serve as boutique hotels, artisan workshops, and farm-to-table restaurants. Its allure lies in its contrasts. As you enjoy modern delicacies like homemade ricotta gnocchi, you’ll experience what feels like stepping back in history. Experts believe Matera represents one of the world’s oldest continuously occupied settlements throughout history. Archaeologists have found evidence that human habitation in the area dates back more than 10,000 years.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites attract more than 10 million visitors each year with their dramatic peaks that rival those of Switzerland’s famous Alps. The Dolomites in the northeast of the country serve as both a hiker’s paradise and a UNESCO World Heritage site because of their distinctive pink limestone formations.
Scenic hiking trails wind through wildflower-filled meadows, while cozy mountain huts, known as rifugi, offer meals ranging from hearty polenta to quattro formaggi pasta. World-class skiing resorts attract enthusiasts during winter, while summer unveils stunning lakes that create perfect snapshots. Italian hospitality reaches its pinnacle with adventures, making this location a must-visit destination for 2025.
Emilia, Romagna
You cannot experience authentic heavenly flavors until you have dined in Emilia-Romagna. Known as Italy’s prime culinary territory, this region gave birth to classic dishes such as Bolognese sauce and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Bologna stands as the intellectual hub of Italy, as it hosts the world’s oldest university, which was established in 1088.
Modena draws visitors not only for its food but also for its historic balsamic vinegar, while motor fans visit Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello. The Emilia-Romagna region experienced impressive tourism growth in 2024, with the number of arrivals and overnight stays surpassing historic pre-pandemic levels. The region attracted more than 14.5 million visitors and recorded 61.8 million overnight stays for 2024, setting a new high and confirming its status as a top travel destination.
Puglia’s White Towns
Hilltop towns such as Alberobello, Ostuni, and Locorotondo in Puglia showcase typical Italian charm through their whitewashed homes and tight alleyways. Alberobello’s trulli houses have earned UNESCO World Heritage recognition because their cone-shaped roofs create a whimsical, fairy-tale appearance throughout the town.
The region produces more than any other in Italy and makes up 40% of the nation’s total olive oil output. Tourists are amazed by Puglia’s dedication to slow food and pristine beaches, as well as its upcoming status as one of the top travel destinations of 2025, according to The Puglia Guys. Puglia deserves to be high on your travel wish list if you love to explore beautiful landscapes alongside distinctive food experiences.
Cilento Coast, Campania
The Cilento Coast competes with Amalfi for tourists seeking both scenic splendor and less crowded destinations. Summer 2025 will see Cilento become a prominent travel destination with a 210% surge in interest, according to Expedia’s 2025 Summer Travel Report.
Visitors to the Cilento Coast can explore Italy’s enduring heritage through its archaeological masterpieces, such as Paestum’s temples, as well as the natural beauty of turquoise seas and verdant landscapes. For ten years now, the Cilento Coast has attracted more travelers who want genuine, sustainable vacations. Exquisite Coasts describes this place as Italy from the past.
Tip: Discover Italy’s classical beauty combined with peaceful charm at the perfect destination: the Cilento Coast.
Lake Como, Lombardy
Lake Como offers a distinctive alpine elegance, unlike the busy coastline of Amalfi. Bellagio and Varenna villages exude sophisticated charm with their opulent gardens and boutique accommodations, set against the backdrop of yacht-filled views. High-end tourism investment in Lake Como increased by 39% in 2024.
The Cilento Coast’s reputation among celebrities, combined with its tranquil beauty, explains why George Clooney owns a villa in this region. The combination of sipping an aperitivo by the lake and leisurely ferry rides between villages produces a strangely energizing yet tranquil atmosphere.
Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
The ancient village, known as “the dying city,” sits precariously on volcanic tuff cliffs and remains preserved as a time capsule through the centuries. Over 2,500 years ago, the Etruscans established this picturesque settlement.
Since 2019, visitor numbers have remained steady at approximately one million visitors annually, thanks to proactive measures against erosion, including an entry toll that funds restoration projects, according to CNN Travel. Tourism manager Francesco Bigiotti advises making investments in Bagnoregio itself for sustainable growth since Civita stands as a protected cultural artifact.
Pitigliano, Tuscany
The medieval city of Pitigliano is located in southeastern Tuscany, where golden tuff cliffs have been sculpted to form its structure. The town of Pitigliano, often referred to as “Little Jerusalem,” showcases its Jewish heritage through an ancient synagogue that remains open to visitors, while history surrounds every street corner.
AirDNA data shows that Airbnb hosts in Pitigliano generate an average annual revenue of around €9,000 and maintain an occupancy rate of 32%. Pitigliano offers panoramic cliffside views alongside Tuscan meals crafted from local ingredients, combining historical exploration with relaxation and gourmet experiences.
Turin, Piedmont
The European Commission recognized Turin as the European Capital of Smart Tourism 2025 due to its outstanding accessibility features and sustainable practices, alongside digital advancements. The city dedicates 35.6% of its land to green spaces and features 258 kilometers of bike lanes, promoting eco-friendly transportation.
Cultural enthusiasts can explore the second-largest Egyptian Museum in the world, alongside innovative AI-driven museum exhibits that provide interactive storytelling experiences for visitors. Witness Turin as it hosts the Winter Universiade, where international athletes perform their skills while demonstrating sportsmanship in a dazzling show.
Monte Isola, Lombardy
The beautiful Monte Isola rests effortlessly on Lake Iseo, combining stunning scenery with peaceful simplicity. Since becoming car-free in 2010, the area offers tranquil biking and hiking paths that meander through olive trees (VisitItaly).
Monte Isola stands among Italy’s most beautiful villages and reached third place in the European Best Destinations 2019 ranking by Visit Bergamo, thanks to its scenic charm and sustainable tourism practices. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning vistas of Monte Isola make it an ideal destination for digital detox travelers seeking refuge from their electronic devices.
Prosecco Road, Veneto
Veneto is much more than Venice. The area known as Prosecco Road, situated between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, features UNESCO-recognized rolling vineyards and picturesque Italian villages. Valuing at €1.51 billion after a 12.7% increase, sparkling wine exports reached this amount, with the U.S. market leading by importing 42.9 million bottles from January to April.
Elisa Teso describes Prosecco Road as “a region that offers a taste of Italy’s rural soul.” Visitors typically enjoy exploring the vineyards and sampling local food while savoring unique Prosecco. The journey along Prosecco Road represents a sacred expedition for wine enthusiasts.
Corinaldo, Marche
Beyond its breathtaking views, Corinaldo presents medieval walls and eccentric festivals that attract visitors. The Marche town earned recognition as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, while overnight stays increased by 15% from 2018 to 2023, according to Institutul de Cercetare Făgăraș.
Cobblestone pathways and historical landmarks offer a wealth of charm for families seeking cultural experiences. Instagrammers will find the Castelvecchio stairway breathtaking, while local culinary festivals showcase Italy’s vibrant food heritage on every plate. The small village of Corinaldo delivers significant adventurous experiences despite its size.
Calcata, Lazio
The Treja Valley is home to Calcata, which attracts artists and dreamers with its magical atmosphere and complete digital disconnection. The town intentionally limits internet access to match Rome’s low population density while driving an 18% increase in “unplugged tourism” since 2022.
The town sits on a cliff edge, with its deteriorating medieval buildings reflecting the unique attributes of its residents. The vibrant artist community at Calcata creates an environment where creativity flourishes so much that visitors cannot leave without discovering distinctive art pieces.
Bolsena, Lazio
The town of Bolsena stands on the shores of Italy’s largest volcanic lake, offering black-sand beaches and serene lakeside views. Tourism in Italy increased by approximately 13% nationwide in 2024, according to the Rome Business School’s 2024 tourism report.
Visitors had opportunities to engage in sustainable water activities, such as kayaking, alongside strolls through medieval pathways, accompanied by the Rocca Monaldeschi fortress. Picture-perfect memories await conscious travelers at every corner of this Lazio retreat, Bolsena.
Montemerano, Tuscany
Montemerano captivates both culinary enthusiasts and history buffs with its proximity to Saturnia hot springs. A Rome Business School report stated that Italy experienced a 15% increase in overnight stays in 2023, with Tuscany emerging as a leading destination for international tourists.
Located among Italy’s hilltop towns, this culinary gem offers wellness retreats featuring hot springs, perfect for ultimate relaxation. The stunning natural scenery around Montemerano creates an ideal mix of luxurious relaxation and peaceful calm.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025
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