10 Best Hidden Gem Cities in Italy (Travelers Love!)

Cities in Italy are full of history, culture, and unmatched culinary expertise. While some towns, like Roma, Milan, or Napoli, bask in the limelight of popularity, others remain the country’s best-kept secrets. From the regal elegance of Turin in the north to the rustic charm of Matera in the south, each city offers a unique slice of Italian heritage waiting to be discovered.

10 Hidden Gem Cities in Italy

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Turin

Located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, close to Milan, Turin of the best cities in Italy. Its richness in history and culture yet often overlooked by tourists. This former capital of Italy combines elegant architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and a renowned culinary tradition.

Turin’s streets, like Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo, have baroque buildings and grand squares. The Mole Antonelliana, a distinctive tower, symbolizes the city and hosts an impressive National Cinema Museum. Turin is also home to the famous Shroud of Turin in the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist.

For art lovers, the city offers the Egyptian Museum, second only to Cairo’s collection, and the GAM, Turin’s gallery of modern and contemporary art. The city’s cultural life extends into the night with its diverse range of bars and clubs, particularly vibrant in the San Salvario district.

Turin is also renowned for its culinary delights, from decadent chocolates to the famous bicerin, a traditional hot drink made of espresso, chocolate, and milk. The city’s dining scene offers a range of options, from affordable trattorias to upscale dining experiences.

While Turin is generally more affordable than Italy’s more famous cities like Rome or Milan, it offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, making it a valuable destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Assisi 

Assisi, nestled in central Italy’s Umbrian hills and easily accessible from Rome for a tranquil Sunday trip, is a beacon of spirituality and medieval splendor. This hilltop town, a serene contrast to Turin’s urban sophistication, offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere amidst its historic charm. One of the best cities in Italy for relaxing holidays.

Famed for being the birthplace of Saint Francis, Assisi’s spiritual heart is the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis. This UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with remarkable frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, attracts art lovers and pilgrims. Assisi’s ancient streets, lined with stone houses, lead to tranquil squares and offer views of the lush Umbrian landscape.

The town’s culinary scene, more subdued than Turin’s, still delights with traditional Umbrian dishes and fine local wines, often more affordable. Assisi’s evenings are quiet, ideal for relaxed dining and the town’s timeless charm.

Beyond spirituality, Assisi offers historical exploration, such as the Rocca Maggiore fortress with panoramic views. Its small size and calm atmosphere starkly contrast Turin’s bustling streets and grand palaces. Assisi is a haven for those seeking a blend of history, spirituality, and the tranquility of rural Italy.

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Lucca 

In northwestern Italy’s Tuscany region, Lucca, a gem within easy reach of Florence and Pisa, offers a journey into a richly preserved medieval era. This city, distinct from Assisi’s spiritual quietude, is encircled by well-preserved Renaissance walls, now a public promenade, and is a perfect destination for a memorable day trip.

Famous for its intact city walls, Lucca exudes historical charm. Visitors can stroll or cycle atop these walls, enjoying views of the city and surrounding Tuscan landscape. The historic city center, accessible from modern traffic, is a maze of cobblestone streets leading to impressive squares like Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater.

Lucca’s vibrant atmosphere is further enriched by its annual events, including the Lucca Summer Festival and Lucca Comics & Games, one of Europe’s largest comic book conventions. Unlike Assisi’s tranquil nights, Lucca offers a lively evening scene with unique trattorias and wine bars, though it’s more relaxed than Turin’s bustling nightlife.

Affordable and charming, Lucca’s dining scene highlights traditional Tuscan cuisine. Its affordability in dining and accommodation offers a pleasing alternative to the more expensive tourist spots in Italy.

With its historic beauty, cultural events, and relaxed ambiance, Lucca stands out as a must-visit for those who appreciate a smaller Italian city’s history, culture, and charm.

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Padua

Padua, a vibrant city in the Veneto region of Northeastern Italy and conveniently close to Venice, blends historical richness with a lively contemporary spirit. Unlike Lucca’s medieval tranquility, Padua is a bustling hub with a substantial student population, thanks to its renowned University, one of Europe’s oldest.

Padua is celebrated for the Scrovegni Chapel, featuring Giotto’s remarkable frescoes, a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The city’s blend of historic and modern is evident in its lively squares, like Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest, bustling with markets and cultural events.

The city’s botanical garden, Orto Botanico di Padova, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a peaceful retreat. Padua’s culinary scene is dynamic, offering a mix of traditional Venetian dishes and modern Italian cuisine, generally more affordable compared to the more tourist-heavy Italian cities.

Fueled by its student population, Nightlife in Padua offers various bars and clubs, providing a lively atmosphere different from Lucca’s calm and Turin’s more upscale scene.

With its rich academic heritage, artistic treasures, and vibrant urban life, Padua presents a well-rounded experience, appealing to those seeking a mix of historical depth and lively modern culture.

Ravenna 

Ravenna, situated in Northeast Italy and a short journey from Bologna, offers a unique glimpse into Byzantine art, unlike other cities in Italy. It is renowned for stunning mosaics and contrasts Padua’s student atmosphere with Turin’s elegance.

The city’s most captivating sites are its early Christian and Byzantine buildings, such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, adorned with breathtaking mosaics and designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These intricate and vibrant mosaics are a feast for the eyes, representing a significant chapter in art history.

Ravenna’s charm extends beyond its mosaics. The city’s streets blend historical and modern elements, offering quiet cafés and quaint shops. While Ravenna does not boast the vibrant nightlife of Padua, it provides a more subdued and reflective ambiance.

The city’s culinary offerings reflect the richness of the Emilia-Romagna region, known for its exquisite cuisine and wines, providing an affordable yet delectable dining experience.

With its unique artistic heritage and peaceful atmosphere, Ravenna is a destination for those who appreciate historical art in a quieter, more reflective setting. It offers a different experience from the more dynamic cities in Italy, like Padua and Turin.

Matera 

Matera, located in the southern region of Basilicata and easily accessible from Naples, presents a stark contrast to the Byzantine art of Ravenna and the Renaissance walls of Lucca. This city, known for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi, offers a unique historical experience.

Matera’s Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of cave houses carved into limestone, some inhabited even today. Once considered a symbol of poverty, this ancient town has become a beacon of cultural revival and sustainable tourism.

The city’s rugged landscape and unique architecture have also made it a popular film location, adding to its allure. Matera’s culinary scene reflects its rustic and earthy charm, with traditional dishes that are both affordable and deeply rooted in local traditions.

Unlike the urban vibrancy of Turin or the academic atmosphere of Padua, Matera offers a journey back in time. Its streets, etched into the rocky terrain, lead to hidden churches and stunning viewpoints overlooking the Gravina Canyon.

Matera’s appeal lies in its extraordinary blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and cultural renaissance. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that combines history, nature, and one of the most authentic of all cities in Italy.

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Alba 

Alba, nestled in the heart of the Piedmont region in Northwestern Italy and a short trip from Turin, is a gastronomic paradise, contrasting sharply with Matera’s ancient charm and Ravenna’s artistic splendor. Renowned like none of the other cities in Italy for its white truffles and prestigious wines, this city is a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Unlike the historic cave dwellings of Matera, Alba’s landscape is dominated by rolling hills and vineyards. The city is famous for its annual White Truffle Fair, attracting gourmets worldwide. Alba’s streets are lined with wine bars and restaurants, offering a chance to savor local delicacies such as truffles and Barolo wine.

Alba’s historical center, with its medieval towers and baroque buildings, offers a picturesque backdrop to its rich culinary culture. While it lacks the extensive nightlife of Padua or Turin, Alba’s charm lies in its relaxed atmosphere, perfect for leisurely wine tastings and gourmet explorations.

Affordability in Alba varies; while some truffle dishes and wines can be pricey, plenty of affordable dining options offer a taste of the region’s specialties. Alba is an ideal destination for those seeking gastronomic excellence and scenic beauty.

Orvieto

Orvieto, dramatically perched on a volcanic outcrop in central Italy’s Umbria region and conveniently close to Rome, presents a stunning contrast to the gastronomic fame of Alba and the historic Sassi of Matera. This ancient city showcases medieval grandeur, highlighted by its magnificent Gothic cathedral, the Duomo. The cathedral, famed for its striking façade and exquisite frescoes by Luca Signorelli, is a testament to Italy’s rich religious and artistic history.

In addition to its architectural marvels, Orvieto is celebrated for its crisp white wines, particularly the Orvieto Classico. The city’s culinary offerings combine traditional Umbrian dishes, balancing fine dining and peculiar, budget-friendly trattorias. It contrasts with Alba’s high-end gastronomy, offering a more diverse range of dining experiences.

Orvieto’s charm also lies in its underground city, a network of Etruscan tunnels and caves, adding an element of mystery and historical exploration. The city’s smaller size and laid-back atmosphere make it an appealing alternative to the bustling Italian towns, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and a relaxed lifestyle. With its stunning landscapes, rich historical heritage, and enjoyable wine culture, Orvieto stands out as a captivating Italian destination.

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Parma 

In Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, Parma, easily reachable from Milan for a delightful day trip, is a city where culinary and cultural richness converges, offering a different experience from the wine-centric charm of Orvieto or Matera’s ancient allure. Known for Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, it’s a haven for food lovers.

The city’s architecture blends medieval and Renaissance styles, evident in landmarks like the Parma Cathedral, stunning frescoes, and the octagonal Baptistery. These historical sites contrast the Etruscan mysteries of Orvieto and the Sassi of Matera.

From local trattorias to upscale dining, Parma’s food scene highlights its world-renowned ingredients. This variety of dining options offers an affordable and diverse gastronomic experience compared to the exclusive offerings of cities like Turin.

Culturally, Parma boasts the renowned Teatro Regio, known for high-quality opera performances. This vibrant cultural scene and the city’s historical University infuse a youthful and lively spirit into its nightlife, differing from the subdued evenings in Orvieto.

With its gastronomic excellence, rich cultural offerings, and historical depth, Parma stands out as a destination for those seeking an immersive Italian experience, blending the joys of food, art, and history.

Bergamo 

In Northern Italy’s Lombardy region and just a brief journey from Milan, Bergamo offers a unique dual-city experience, contrasting with Parma’s gastronomic richness and Matera’s historic caves. The town, known for its Venetian walls, is divided into the Città Alta (Upper City) and the Città Bassa (Lower City).

The Città Alta, perched on a hilltop, is encircled by well-preserved 16th-century Venetian walls. This part of Bergamo is a journey back in time, with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and the stunning Piazza Vecchia. The Città Bassa, in contrast, offers a more modern Italian experience with its active streets, contemporary shops, and cafes.

Bergamo’s culinary scene is rich, featuring Lombard specialties. While less internationally known than Parma’s cheese or ham, Bergamo’s polenta and cancelli (stuffed pasta) offer a delightful taste of local cuisine. The city’s dining options range from high-end restaurants to affordable eateries, providing a diverse culinary experience.

Bergamo’s blend of historical depth in its Città Alta and the vibrant modern life of its Città Bassa offers a unique exploration opportunity, contrasting with the uniform historical themes of cities like Orvieto and Matera. Making Bergamo a compelling destination for those seeking a combination of historical discovery and contemporary Italian lifestyle.

Italy’s tapestry of cities is as diverse as it is captivating. Each hidden gem detailed here offers a unique encounter with Italy’s soul—from Turin’s cultural heartbeat to Alba’s gastronomic finesse. These cities invite travelers to explore beyond the well-trodden paths, promising authentic experiences rich in history, art, and local flavors. Whether seeking spiritual solace in Assisi or architectural splendor in Lucca, Italy’s lesser-known cities are treasures that promise the enchantment of discovery.

carley rojas avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.