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6 unspoilt destinations in Italy 

Vieste in Apulia, the ACSI tour also comes here (photo: Pixabay)

Whether you're an Italy veteran looking for something different or an Italy virgin, your Italy vacation doesn't have to be limited to busy, classic destinations like Rome, Venice or Florence. On the contrary. Italy's 301.338 km² is full of unspoilt destinations. Away from the beaten track and the crowd, right in the heart of undiscovered Italy. Read on for 6 of our favorite unspoilt Italian destinations.

Apulia (Puglia)

Puglia or the region Apulia is composed of 6 provinces. All 6 feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle around the Italian lakes and the well-known tourist hotspots. The region offers natural beauty, a rich history and exceptional local cuisine. Italy's undiscovered southern region is sure to charm any traveller. That 'undiscovered' will not last that long.

The medieval city of Ostuni in Apulia (Photo: Wikimedia)
The medieval city of Ostuni in Apulia (Photo: Wikimedia)

Foodlovers will fall in love with its cuisine, historians with its historical heritage, while nature lovers will adore the beautiful seascapes. All this without the throngs of tourists in Italy's popular tourist destinations. The wines of Apulia are well known throughout Italy and the region offers a range of unforgettable wine tasting and wine tours.

Ascoli Piceno

Ascoli Piceno is located in the rapidly emerging (but still not crowded) region The Marches (Le Marche). This provincial capital enjoys world-renowned wine status, as does one of the best truffle hunting destinations on the planet.

Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno in De Marken (photo: Edward Hendriks)

The city offers a multitude of picturesque landscapes, as it lies on two rivers and is surrounded by three mountains. There are two national parks near Ascoli Piceno, making it a dream destination for nature lovers, hikers and adventurers. In August, the city hosts a wonderful Renaissance festival.

Aegadian Islands

Aegadian Islands
The Aegadian Islands (image: Wikimedia)

Do you dream of pristine beaches and plenty of sunshine? The Aegadian Islands form a Sicilian mini archipelago and are a favorite with locals thanks to its restrictive car policy, unspoilt land and crystal clear waters.

While other Sicilian islands such as Pantelleria and Lipari are overrun by tourists, the beautiful Aegadian Islands have remained relatively untouched. Watch local fishermen mend their nets or climb the mountainous landscape for otherworldly vistas.

We were on the breathtaking last fall ourselves Favignana, the largest of the Aegadian Islands.

The fishing port of Favignana
The fishing port of Favignana (photo: Edward Hendriks)

The Abruzzo (Abruzzo)

Just an hour east of Rome is this tantalizingly beautiful region, laced with ancient beech forests, sweeping fields, pristine beaches and medieval mountain villages. yes, the Abruzzo seem to have everything.

Abruzzo (Photo: Alessandro Tortora - Flickr)
Abruzzo (photo: Alessandro Tortora - Flickr)

Abruzzo has been awarded the title of 'the greenest region in Europe' thanks to its abundance of national parks and nature reserves. The mountains make it a special ski destination in the winter, while the beaches provide an oasis of tranquility in the summer. It's hard to believe that this landscape is so easily accessible from the bustling center of Rome.

Montagnana

Montagnana
Motagnana (photo: actarian - Flickr)

What do you say? You prefer something more northerly? Okay then. In the heart of the Veneto plain, in the province of Padua, is Montagnana. One of the most beautiful fortified towns in Europe. The carefully preserved medieval walls are up to eight meters high. The imposing Piazza Maggiore exudes the grandeur of 18th century Venetian architecture.

Montagnana has the charm of a village, but offers the facilities and restaurants of a medium-sized town. Count on a well-filled calendar of events, including Het Festival van Prosciutto Venice in May and the Palio of the Ten Cities which takes place in September.

Collalto Sabino

Collalto Sabino
Castle of Collalto Sabino (photo: Simone Tagliaferric - Flickr)

You can safely say that Collalto Sabino is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. However, this historic settlement is surprisingly quiet, even in the middle of summer. The tourists visiting the village can visit the best preserved medieval castle of Latium (Lazio), walk through the stone streets of the historic center and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

Collalto Sabino is only fifty kilometers northeast of Rome. The village is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Make it a day trip from Rome or book a stay of one or more nights in such a typical Italian hotel to experience the real Italy.

Which undiscovered destinations in Italy have you set your sights on this year?

Source: aluxurytravelblog.com

Written by This Is Italy

Benvenuto su This is Italy! This is Italy is a web magazine aimed at lovers of the country. We are too. We have been coming to Italy several times a year for almost 25 years to enjoy la dolce vita, good food, the Italian language and 'made in Italy'. On ditisitalie.nl you will find Italy news, fun stories, facts, tips, recipes, travel tips, must-sees and everything more about Italy. Your Italy tips are also welcome!

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