Ah, Italia — land of timeless beauty, cultural treasures, and exquisite culinary delights. While cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence tend to claim the spotlight, Italy is, in fact, home to sooooooooo much more! Hidden in plain sight, underrated gems await to lure you with their charm, character, and pockets of tranquillity. Without further ado, let’s look at what these often-overlooked cities have to offer.
1. Matera: The city of stone
Known for its stone-carved buildings, rock-hewn churches, winding cobbled streets, and ancient cave dwellings carved into cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage City takes your senses to otherworldly heights. Just one look at Matera, and there’ll be no doubt as to why it’s dubbed ‘the city of stone’.
When you’re here, immerse yourself in prehistoric living, the vibrant arts scene, stunning panoramic views, and the authentic Italian way of life. Need I say more?
Best season to visit: Spring or autumn
How to get there: Fly into Bari Palese Airport or Brindisi Airport, then take a train, bus, or car to Matera.
2. Alberobello: The home of Trulli
“What are trulli, even?” you might ask. Welcome to the architectural marvel that is Alberobello, where dry stone huts with conical roofs reside. These buildings are called trulli (singular, trullo). As you wander through the two main trulli districts, Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, it’s going to feel like you’re walking in a fairytale.
Don’t forget to take stunning pictures for the ‘Gram, savour Apulian cuisine, and scour local shops for unique handmade goods.
Best season to visit: Spring or autumn
How to get there: Fly into Bari Palese Airport or Brindisi Airport, then take a train, bus, or car to Alberobello.
3. L’Aquila: Abruzzo’s recovering capital
Encircled by the Apennine mountains, L’Aquila is a vibrant university town where art, history, and nature come together. It offers travellers a variety of experiences amidst its steady recovery from a devastating earthquake in 2009.
Explore L’Aquila’s historic city centre with its iconic porticoes and piazzas, take in panoramic views at Forte Spagnolo, hike the pristine wilderness of nearby Gran Sasso National Park, and enjoy some winter sports at one of the many ski resorts.
Best season to visit: Spring, autumn, or winter
How to get there: Fly into Abruzzo International Airport (Pescara), then take a train, bus, or car.
4. Bologna: The learned, the fat, the red one
The Italians have nicknamed Bologna ‘la dotta, la grassa, la rossa‘. La dotta (the learned one) for its famed university, la grassa (the fat one) for its cuisine, and la rossa (the red one) for its red rooftops. When a city has multiple nicknames, you know you’re in for a treat. But, most importantly, la grassa gets a unanimous “Yes!” from us.
From eats like Tagliatelle al Ragu Bolognese, Parmigiano Reggiano, Lasagne Verde al Forno, Tortellini en Brodo, to Tigelle, your inner glutton will scream for joy. Of course, Bologna’s not just about culinary excellence. Stroll through its well-preserved medieval centre, picturesque porticoes, and charming squares. Perhaps catch some live music or stand in awe of some Renaissance art. You do you, girl.
Best season to visit: Year-round
How to get there: Fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, or take a train, bus or car from neighbouring cities.
5. Modena: The world’s supercar capital
Modena may be small, but it’s packed with beauty, legacy, class and culture. Gracing us with the likes of Pavarotti, balsamic vinegar, Ferrari, and Lamborghini — Modena is for the foodies, music and art lovers, history buffs, and of course, the motorheads. It’s got something for everyone.
For the wanderers, take in the quaint grandeur of its city centre, little alleys, and Albinelli Market. Art lovers and automobile enthusiasts can book an opera, or visit car museums and private car collections. Sit, sip, people-watch alfresco-style, and last but not least, don’t forget to eat, eat, and eat!
Best season to visit: Spring or autumn
How to get there: Fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, then take a train, shuttle, or car to Modena.
