Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. Beyond the major destinations like Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and the Amalfi Coast, there are countless cities and regions to discover. One of the best things about traveling Italy is the historical and cultural diversity that exists throughout the country. Rome is entirely different than Venice. Venice is completely different than Florence. Florence is nothing like the Amalfi Coast. Of course, Italy has a soft spot in my heart because it’s where I started Vogelle and where our accessories are made.
If you’ve been lucky enough to see the more iconic places in Italy like I have, you may be searching some off the beaten path locations. You’re in luck! After spending a semester studying in Milan, I started my handbag brand in Italy and have been returning to this magical country ever since. Here are some of the best underrated gems in Italy!
Bologna
Bologna is located between Milan and Florence and is a city with rich history and unbelievably good food. Pretty much all of Italy is loaded with history and once in a lifetime cuisine, but Bologna truly sits at the top of the list. If you’re traveling from Milan or Venice down towards Florence, your train will likely make a stop in Bologna. I always love to get off and explore for a few hours before continuing on.
In the city center, you’ll find The University of Bologna. This is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Yes, the world! The classrooms and library spaces in this university are unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Because of the university, there is a large culture of students in Bologna from Italy and abroad. The nightlife scene is very fun if that’s something you’re looking for.
Are you a fan of ragú alla Bolognese? This world-famous sauce originated in Bologna. Some of the best pastas and cheeses I’ve ever had have been in this city. Bologna is also famous for its meat offerings due to its close proximity to Parma, where Prosciutto di Parma is produced. If you’re visiting Bologna, do not skimp on food!
The other unique thing about Bologna is that its a city full of towers. At one point, there were over 100 towers standing tall throughout this city! The reason why is quite unique. In the Middle Ages, wealthy families built these towers as a symbol of their power and status. I found this fascinating the first time I visited.
Verona
Verona was one of my favorite day trips to take from Milan. Verona is a stunning, small town that is surrounded by the Adige River.
You may have heard of a man named William Shakespeare and his infamous play, Romeo and Juliet. 😉 This story was set in Verona and Juliet’s balcony is located in the center of the city.
Like I said, Verona is small. I walked from the train station into the city and explored it all by foot. I’d give yourself a full day here! Verona is also home to the Verona Arena, which is a colosseum that is reminiscent of the colosseum in Rome. It’s a treat to walk along the river and see the city from all angles.
The top things to see in Verona are Juliet’s Balcony, The Verona Arena, Castel San Pietro, The Lamberti Tower, and the Verona Cathedral.
Lake Garda
If you’re in Northern Italy, you absolutely can not miss Lake Garda! You’ve surely heard of its spectacular neighbor, Lake Como. Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful spots in Italy in its own unique way.
Lake Garda is easily accessible from Milan, Venice, and even Bolzano in The Dolomites. From Milan, visiting this lake can be done as a (long) day trip. Book your train ride to Desenzano del Garda and start exploring from the base of the lake.
One of the most interesting places I’ve ever seen has to be Sirmione. Sirmione is a charming town that sits on a peninsula in the lake with a medieval castle at the base of it. Scaliger Castle is a 13th century fortress that guards the entrance to Sirmione. This castle looks like it’s floating on the lake and is absolutely stunning. Sirmione is also home to thermal baths, Roman ruins, and beaches. If you ever watched Call My By Your Name, you likely remember beach scene where they discover the arm with Elio’s dad. This scene was filmed in Sirmione.
This peninsula provides breathtaking panoramic views of the lake. Spend an hour walking the length of the peninsula with a gelato in hand and enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in all of Italy.
Lake Garda is huge and extends far north into the mountains. You can spend a day exploring the main town and Sirmione, or you can plan more of a trip around the lake to work your way from south to north. Lake Garda will surely be one of your new favorite spots in Italy.
Parma & Modena (Emilia-Romagna Region)
If you love food and/or cars, this is where you want to be! Emilia-Romagna covers a vast region of Italy, but I’m specifically talking about Parma and Modena. Bologna is technically also in this region, but it deserved its own shoutout.
Welcome to the land of Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, and Ferrari!
Parma and Modena are home to some of the most world-renowned food and car suppliers. The Enzo Ferrari Museum is located in Modena along with the iconic Ferrari Campus. If you’re spending time in Milan or Tuscany, you can should be able to add some stops in this region to your itinerary.
Absolute Musts in Parma & Modena:
Siena
Siena is often overlooked for its much more popular neighbor, Florence. After spending a large amount time exploring Italy, I can confidently say that Siena is one of my favorite spots in the entire country. Siena is unlike anything else that you will find in Italy and it truly feels like stepping back into a different time period.
Where to Stay
I’ve been to Siena a few times, but most recently I stayed at the Airbnb linked below. My friend, Hannah, and I had the best experience at this Airbnb and it’s one of my favorite Airbnb stays ever. It’s hosted by a local family who went above and beyond for us during our stay. They also own the coffee shop that sits directly below the Airbnb. We got cappuccinos every morning and chatted with the family before heading out on our excursions. Stay here if you can!
Siena is a perfect launching pad for the most beautiful wineries and small Tuscan towns. Explore Montepulciano, San Gimignano, Montalcino, and more from this medieval town. Enjoy an afternoon with pizza and wine in the iconic piazza of Siena and you’ll understand why this town needs to be on your list. I’m already itching to go back!
VOGELLE
Green Chain Shoulder Bag
Handmade in Italy with Genuine Italian Leather. This is the perfect bag for exploring all of the regions of Italy.
Off the Beaten Path in Italy
You could explore Italy for an entire lifetime and not see it all. I look forward to visiting more destinations like Sicily, Sardinia, and Bari in the future. For now, these are my top 5 underrated destinations in Italy for those who are looking for a more local and unique experience.
If you’d like to work with a local travel agency in Italy, contact IC Bellagio. I have partnered with them for years and they are truly the best team when it comes to arranging local experiences and stays throughout Italy. Don’t forget to tell them I sent you. 🙂
