Maratea, Basilicata
People call Maratea the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” and honestly, it lives up to the name. Tucked away in southern Italy, this little coastal town flies under the radar for most tourists. You’ll find rugged cliffs, secret coves, and an old town that feels straight out of a storybook. Italians head here for the beaches and hiking trails, loving the clear blue sea and the fact that places to stay don’t cost nearly as much as the Amalfi Coast just up the road.
Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Civita di Bagnoregio sits high on a hill, clinging to life as erosion slowly eats away at its edges—people even call it “the dying town.” But step inside, and it’s all winding medieval streets and a kind of quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. Italians slip in during the off-season, wandering the narrow lanes, sipping coffee in hushed piazzas, and soaking up those sweeping views far from the crowds. It’s like time stands still here, and getting in doesn’t cost much either, so you get peace and affordability in one go.
Gargano Peninsula, Puglia
The Gargano Peninsula juts out like the “spur” on Italy’s boot, all forests, beaches, and hidden villages that most foreign visitors miss. After the summer rush, Italian families head for towns like Vieste and Peschici, where beaches empty and seafood is as fresh as it gets. The best part? You can stay in cozy farm stays or guesthouses that actually feel like someone’s home, and prices are easy on the wallet.
Monte Isola, Lombardy
Right in the middle of Lake Iseo sits Monte Isola, Europe’s biggest lake island. Cars are mostly a no-go here, so the place stays quiet and calm. Italians love it for weekend getaways—think narrow streets, old fishing villages, and lakeside spots where you can actually hear yourself think. Ferries from nearby towns are cheap, so it’s easy to reach if you want pretty walks, good food by the water, and peaceful views without fighting the crowds over at Lake Como.
Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
Sure, everyone knows Tuscany, but Val d’Orcia is where Italians escape for a real countryside break. Picture soft hills, roads lined with cypress trees, and villages like Pienza, Montalcino, and Bagno Vignoni that look untouched by time. Locals often rent tiny apartments or farm stays for a fair price, sipping local wine and eating well in total calm—far away from the buzz in Florence or Siena.
Tropea, Calabria
Tropea hangs on a cliff above the sea in Calabria, with clear turquoise water and an old town that’s fun to get lost in. Italians show up after the summer crowds have left, stretching out on quiet beaches and digging into local specialties—sweet red onions, spicy ‘nduja, and fresh seafood. Hotels and restaurants go for much less than in Sicily or the Amalfi Coast, so you get that postcard-perfect escape without spending big.
Orta San Giulio, Piedmont
Orta San Giulio sits quietly on Lake Orta, often skipped by foreigners but much-loved by Italians. It’s small, peaceful, and just plain pretty, with romantic lake views and a classic old center. People love strolling along the shore, popping over to the island of San Giulio, and lingering in local cafes. You get charm and beauty for a fraction of what you’d pay at Lake Como or Lake Garda.
The Sila Mountains, Calabria
Sometimes Italians trade the beach for mountains, and when they do, they head to Sila National Park. It’s all forests, lakes, and trails, but without the crowds you get in the Dolomites or Alps. Lodges and guesthouses don’t break the bank, either. Autumn and spring are perfect for hikes, cheese tastings, and digging into old-school Calabrian food—all while soaking up nature in peace.
Trieste and the Carso Plateau, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Trieste feels different from any other Italian city, with its Central European vibe and barely any foreign tourists. Italians come for the Carso Plateau just outside town—hiking, exploring caves, and enjoying the quiet. Inside the city, it’s all historic cafes, grand Baroque buildings, and seafood spots that don’t overcharge. You get a mix of city life and nature, and it won’t empty your wallet.
Ascoli Piceno, Marche
Ascoli Piceno, tucked into central Italy, hardly sees any mass tourism. Italians love wandering through its piazzas—Piazza del Popolo especially, with its pale stone and graceful arches. Vineyards and olive groves sprawl just outside town. Places to stay are affordable, meals are hearty and traditional, and life moves at a slower pace here—perfect if you want a break that’s both peaceful and easy on the budget.
