Beyond the Colosseum: 5 Italian Towns That Will Steal Your Heart
Underrated places to visit in Italy.
Italy rewards the curious. While millions flock to Rome, Venice, and Florence — and rightly so — there’s a deeper magic waiting in the places you haven’t heard of yet. These are the towns where stories linger in the stone, where the food tastes like someone’s grandmother made it, and where you’ll find yourself saying, “Why didn’t I come here sooner?” These are non-touristy destinations and are some of the best small towns in Italy, genuinley hidden gems in Italy.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, here are five unforgettable Italian towns that deserve a spot on your itinerary — and maybe even in your heart.
🏰 1. Civita di Bagnoregio — The Dying Town That’s Very Much Alive
Civita is a place that feels like it shouldn’t exist — a medieval village perched atop a crumbling hill, connected to the world by a single footbridge. Known as La città che muore (“the dying town”), it’s anything but lifeless. One of the best small towns in Italy. Wander its cobbled lanes, admire the stone houses bathed in golden light, and savour a glass of local wine as the valley below glows at sunset. It is a non-touristy destination.
Why go: Hauntingly beautiful, photogenic, and deeply peaceful — a perfect antidote to the crowds of Rome.
🧊 2. Brisighella — The Gelato-Colored Village of Emilia-Romagna
Imagine a village painted in pastels, nestled among olive groves and medieval towers. Brisighella is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Stroll the quirky Via degli Asini (“Donkey’s Alley”), climb to the clock tower for panoramic views, and sample olive oil so good it has its own festival.
Why go: Charming, colorful, and full of character — plus, the food scene is top-notch.
🧙♂️ 3. Triora — Italy’s Witch Village
One of the hidden gems in Italy situated high in the Ligurian Alps lies Triora, a town with a dark past and a mystical present. In the 16th century, it was the site of infamous witch trials. Today, it celebrates its history through museums, festivals, and a hint of spooky charm. Think cobbled alleys, foggy forests, and legends whispered on the wind.
Why go: Perfect for history buffs, Halloween lovers, and anyone who enjoys a touch of mystery.
🧀 4. Castelmezzano — Where You Can Fly Like a Falcon
Another hidden gem in Italy, tucked into the rugged mountains of Basilicata, Castelmezzano is a village that clings to cliffs and defies gravity. The highlight? The Volo dell’Angelo — a zipline that lets you soar between two peaks like a bird. After your flight, settle in for hearty mountain fare and tales of ancient brigands.
Why go: Thrilling, scenic, and delicious — a triple threat for adventurous souls.
🐚 5. Marzamemi — Sicily’s Seaside Secret
Once a humble tuna-fishing village, Marzamemi is now a boho-chic haven with sun-bleached piazzas, seafood feasts, and a laid-back vibe that’s pure Sicilian soul. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and every meal feels like a celebration.
Why go: Romantic, relaxed, and full of flavor — ideal for sunset lovers and seafood enthusiasts.
✨ Final Thoughts
Italy is more than monuments and museums — it’s moments. It’s the quiet joy of discovering a village that feels like a secret, the thrill of tasting something unforgettable, and the stories you’ll tell long after you return home from these hidden gems in Italy.
Have you visited any of these best small towns in Italy or non-touristy Italy destinations? — or have one to add?
Drop a comment below and let’s build the ultimate offbeat Italy list together.
