FAQ About Feeling Like a Local in Italy

Feeling Like a Local in Italy
one year ago | gizem

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known destinations in Italy that locals love?

Yes, Italy is filled with hidden gems and lesser-known destinations that locals cherish. Here are a few examples of such places:

  • Matera (Basilicata): Known for its ancient cave dwellings called "Sassi," Matera offers a unique and captivating atmosphere, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Bologna (Emilia-Romagna): Often overshadowed by popular cities like Rome and Florence, Bologna is a vibrant city with beautiful architecture, a rich culinary scene, and one of the oldest universities in the world.
  • Orvieto (Umbria): Perched atop a volcanic cliff, Orvieto boasts a stunning cathedral, a labyrinth of underground caves, and charming streets. It's an ideal destination for art, history, and food enthusiasts.
  • Alberobello (Apulia): This small town is famous for its trulli, traditional whitewashed stone houses with cone-shaped roofs. Walking through the narrow streets feels like stepping into a fairytale.
  • Procida (Campania): Located in the Bay of Naples, Procida is a picturesque island characterized by colorful houses, peaceful beaches, and authentic local charm, away from the crowds of Capri or Ischia.
  • Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna): Ravenna is renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics that adorn its churches and monuments, making it a hidden gem for art and history lovers.
  • Urbino (Marche): A small Renaissance gem, Urbino is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a well-preserved historic center, a magnificent Ducal Palace, and an influential artistic heritage.
  • San Gimignano (Tuscany): Known as the "Town of Towers," San Gimignano transports visitors back to the Middle Ages with its medieval towers, cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
  • Santa Margherita Ligure (Liguria): A charming coastal town near the famous Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent seafood restaurants.
  • Castelmezzano (Basilicata): Nestled amidst the Lucanian Dolomites, Castelmezzano is a small village known for its dramatic cliffside location, breathtaking views, and thrilling adventure activities like zip-lining.