While most travellers crowd into Italy’s iconic cities, its lesser-known regions offer a completely different experience. Brisighella, in Emilia-Romagna, feels like stepping into a Renaissance canvas thanks to its dramatic limestone cliffs and solitary towers.
The medieval heart of Brisighella reveals narrow stone alleys and a raised walkway that winds through old buildings. It’s a wonderful place to wander without a plan, letting the town reveal itself slowly.
Far to the south, the Via dei Frati in Sicily takes hikers through 54 miles of serene mountain terrain. Villages like Gangi offer restful nights and warm hospitality, even if a shared language is missing.
Basilicata’s Venosa showcases the stunning heritage of southern Italy. Roman ruins, Jewish catacombs and a powerful castle dominate its streets, while Melfi, Lagopesole and Pietragalla add even more ancient splendour to the landscape.
Cividale’s UNESCO-listed Lombard architecture, Chioggia’s canals, the forests around Santo Stefano d’Aveto, the sweet wines of Loazzolo and the archaeological park of Urbs Salvia all demonstrate how many remarkable places Italy still keeps hidden.