Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with a place and its people, and nowhere is this truer than in Italy. Though cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence have earned their fame with world-class art, magnificent architecture, and iconic cuisine, Italy’s lesser-known destinations reveal a quieter, more authentic side of Italian life.
From medieval villages perched above winding rivers to vibrant cities steeped in local culinary traditions, these places offer a deeper connection to Italy’s true character. Skip the crowds, wander differently, and immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle with these five underrated Italian cities that are waiting to surprise and enchant you.
Each of these cities captures a unique side of Italy, from Bologna’s culinary riches to Burano’s vibrant colors. With fewer tourists, they offer a more relaxed and authentic experience, letting you savor Italy’s true essence. And since they’re not on the typical tourist route, these destinations are often more affordable and easier to navigate than the bigger cities.
If you’re looking to connect with Italian culture, make time for these hidden gems. Whether you’re enjoying a long lunch in Turin, exploring the medieval streets of Todi, or snapping photos of Burano’s rainbow-colored homes, Italy’s lesser-known cities promise unforgettable memories, authentic flavors, and a deeper connection to the Italian way of life.
Bologna
Nicknamed ‘La Grassa’ or ‘The Fat One’, Bologna is the ultimate foodie destination in Italy. Italians consider Bologna to be the culinary capital of the country, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its rich, comforting dishes such as tortellini in brodo, lasagne alla bolognese and, of course, the iconic mortadella, Bologna treats visitors to hearty flavours and authentic cuisine.
Less than two hours by scenic train from Rome, Bologna is also a vibrant university city, home to the oldest university in the Western world. This student-driven atmosphere makes the city lively and affordable, with frequent free events in its many squares. Budget travellers will find a variety of affordable dining options, from bustling food markets to casual trattorias.
For those seeking a more upmarket experience, the world-famous Osteria Francescana, once voted the world’s best restaurant, is just 20 minutes away in nearby Modena. Bologna offers the best of Italian cuisine, from budget-friendly bites to Michelin-starred indulgence.
Turin
Nestled in the northwest of Italy, Turin (or Torino) combines Italian charm with French elegance. Often overlooked, Turin once hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics and remains a hidden gem for foodies and architecture lovers alike. It’s also the birthplace of the Slow Food movement, with an annual festival celebrating sustainable, locally sourced food.
Just an hour from the French border, Turin’s food scene showcases Italian flavours with a French twist. Baroque architecture lines the wide streets, earning Turin the nickname ‘Little Paris’. Unlike the winding, narrow streets of many Italian cities, Turin’s boulevards, such as Via Roma, are grand and spacious, perfect for wandering the markets or sipping an espresso in a cafe.
Turin is also home to the historic Mole Antonelliana, an impressive tower with panoramic views, and the renowned Egyptian Museum. Whether it’s art, architecture or food you’re after, Turin offers a sophisticated blend of Italian and French influences.
Burano
While Venice’s canals and bridges attract millions of visitors, few make the short ferry trip to the neighbouring island of Burano. Known for its colourful, candy-coloured houses and historic lace-making tradition, Burano is a photographer’s dream and one of the most underrated cities in Italy. Each building is a different vibrant shade, creating a picturesque backdrop perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.
Burano’s charm lies in its relaxed pace, inviting you to stroll along the waterfront and admire the cheerful facades. Drop into a local shop to browse fine lace made by artisans who have been preserving the craft for generations. Don’t miss the famous S-shaped Bussolai Buranei biscuits, a delicious snack to accompany a strong Italian espresso as you soak up the island’s colourful charm.
Although Burano has no hotels and attracts its fair share of day-trippers, it retains an authentic small-town atmosphere that is a delightful contrast to the tourist-filled streets of Venice.
Todi
Perched above the Tiber River in the heart of Umbria, Todi is a small medieval town that oozes romance and rustic Italian charm. Often overshadowed by nearby Tuscany, Umbria has an understated appeal, with lush landscapes, ancient architecture and vineyards that rival those of the more famous wine regions.
Todi is an ideal base for exploring Umbria’s vineyards, many of which use organic and biodynamic methods. The Roccofiore winery, for example, uses solar power for production and raises its own Cinta Senese pigs for homemade salami. Here you can sample Umbria’s distinctive wines paired with local delicacies.
Todi’s winding streets and historic squares take you back in time. Stroll past beautifully preserved churches and piazzas and let the simple pleasures of wine, olive oil and Italian hospitality work their magic.
Verona
In the north-eastern region of Veneto, Verona is best known as the setting for Romeo and Juliet. But this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers much more than Shakespearean romance. With a stunning Roman Arena, medieval architecture and vibrant piazzas, Verona deserves more than just a day trip from nearby Venice.
Start your visit at the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheatre that rivals Rome’s Colosseum and still hosts concerts and operas. From there, wander the city’s historic streets to find Juliet’s famous balcony, where visitors leave letters and mementos in the hope of finding love.
Verona’s culinary scene is equally fascinating, with a local speciality not found elsewhere – braised horse meat. If that’s not your thing, try Rossa di Verona, a refreshing local beer, while you people watch from a cosy cafe in Piazza delle Erbe. Verona’s mix of history, romance and unique cuisine makes it an enchanting Italian destination.
Lucca
Encircled by towering 500-year-old walls, Lucca is a hidden Tuscan gem brimming with history and romance. Truly an underrated cities in Italy! This enchanting destination invites visitors to stroll its cobbled streets, discover its ancient towers, and enjoy meals at cozy trattorias lit by candlelight. Known for its remarkably preserved city walls, Lucca is the perfect place to rent a bike and enjoy a ride along these Renaissance fortifications, which offer stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Explore Lucca’s Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a stunning oval plaza built on the remains of a Roman amphitheater, or climb the Torre Guinigi for panoramic views and a rooftop garden of ancient oaks. Lucca is also a foodie destination, with local specialties like tordelli, chestnut-flour castagnaccio, and rustic soups that showcase Tuscany’s rich flavors. Lucca’s timeless charm and slower pace make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to experience a more intimate side of Tuscany.
Milan
Though Milan is famous for high fashion and urban energy, it’s also one of Italy’s most culturally rich cities. Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, the grandiose Duomo di Milano, and an impressive arts scene, Milan holds endless treasures beyond its stylish surface. The city’s blend of modernity and tradition creates a unique atmosphere, where you can discover centuries-old landmarks and cutting-edge galleries in the same afternoon.
Stroll through the Brera District, filled with art galleries, bohemian cafes, and boutique shops, or relax with an aperitivo in the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan’s food scene goes beyond pizza and pasta, with risotto alla Milanese, saffron-infused veal shanks (ossobuco), and elegant pastries from historic cafes. With Milan’s iconic architecture and vibrant neighborhoods, this sophisticated city has a personality that’s hard to resist.
