Italy has long enchanted travelers with its famous cities—Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan are perennial bucket-list favorites. But beyond the well-trodden paths lie lesser-known gems that are just as breathtaking, often without the crowds, inflated prices, or tourist traps. From quiet coastal villages to mountain towns frozen in time, Italy offers a treasure trove of destinations that many visitors overlook in favor of the usual highlights.
These hidden spots aren’t just scenic—they’re deeply rooted in history, culture, and authenticity. They invite a slower kind of travel, where you can wander medieval streets without a tour group in sight, enjoy a plate of fresh pasta made by a nonna who’s never owned a cookbook, or gaze at coastal cliffs that rival the Amalfi Coast without paying Amalfi prices. The magic of Italy often shines brightest in these quiet corners.
In this article, we’ll take you to seven breathtaking places in Italy you probably haven’t heard about—but will wish you had. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, these destinations can breathe new life into your Italian itinerary and offer an entirely different experience of la dolce vita.
However, if you are bringing your kids on this tour, you might want some guidance on the places you should visit! So check out our list of top sites in Italy that would be perfect for you!
Quick & Easy Tips for Exploring Italy’s Hidden Gems
Rent a car if possible—many off-the-beaten-path towns are best reached by driving.
Travel during the shoulder season (May–June or September–October) for ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Learn a few Italian phrases—in smaller towns, English may not be widely spoken.
Book accommodations directly with local guesthouses for better deals and personal touches.
Ask locals for recommendations on restaurants and sights—they often lead to the best experiences.
Pack comfortable walking shoes—cobblestone streets and hilly terrain are common.
Don’t overplan—give yourself time to simply wander and soak in the atmosphere.
Many tourists believe the “real Italy” is found only in major cities. This assumption has created overcrowding in places like Venice and Rome, while equally beautiful towns remain largely undiscovered. Ironically, some of Italy’s most authentic cultural experiences exist far away from these famous sites.
There’s also a misconception that smaller towns are less “worth it” because they don’t have globally recognized landmarks. But for Italians, these regions often hold deeper historical significance and stronger local traditions. It’s a different kind of beauty—less postcard-perfect, more lived-in and real.
This mindset shift can be uncomfortable for some travelers who crave famous photo ops. But for those willing to wander off the map, the reward is extraordinary. Hidden Italy offers more than sights—it offers a feeling, a way of life that’s hard to replicate anywhere else in the world.
Best Places to Visit in Italy
1. The Dolomites
Otherwise known as the Dolomite Mountains or the Dolomite Alps, these giants are entirely safe and enjoyable for families with children. These trips are perfect if you like spending time outside and are a fan of outdoor activities.
There are many packages for mountain climbing that are prepared specifically for kids, and if that is too extreme for you, you can simply take up hiking, cycling, and BASE jumping. It is like a vast, natural playground for children, so it will surely not disappoint! Time to make great memories!
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2. Lake Garda
Settled in northeastern Italy, Lake Garda is one of the family-friendliest places you could visit! With a huge resemblance to children’s fairytale books, the lake is surrounded by impressive greenery and many pretty towns and villages for sightseeing.
The hotels and other means of accommodation are perfectly equipped to have children around – there are numerous playgrounds and campsites with waterparks, and some of them have the biggest rollercoasters!
If your family is one for active leisure, there are many routes for hiking and cycling!
3. Tuscany
One of the most visited regions in Italy, Tuscany is great to spend time with kids! However, keep in mind that this one usually does not include many active pursuits. Spending time here is more about relaxation and general appreciation for the Italian countryside.
There are many options available for you to rent a car and set your own destinations so that you are entirely free in your sightseeing choices. There are many beautiful castles to visit along the way and fields with friendly wineries and shops.
If the kids get restless, you can stop by the playgrounds; there are several of those here!
See tours to Italy to plan the best and most inspirational trips!
4. Rome
Of course, there is no going around the capital city!
A family visit to Rome can be educational and fun at the same time. All of the most popular sites are appropriate for children, so you can take them to the Colosseum or the Pantheon and teach them a bit about the impressive historical background of Italy.
Then, once you have introduced them to the country’s antiquity, you can balance it out by taking the kids to the children’s museum called Explora. Spending an afternoon here is proof of how you can mix entertainment and learning. In the museum, history and science are presented in a way that the children can understand it while having fun at the same time.
Apart from that, just take full advantage of the city! Stroll through the impressive piazzas, where children can run freely, introduce them and yourself to Italian food, lovely shops, and friendly locals!
More Places To Visit In Italy
5. Amalfi Coast
It is a universally known fact that both children and adults enjoy beaches! So Amalfi Coast just might be your best choice. Aside from divine white-sandy shores and colorful streets, you can also enjoy sights of expansive cliffs and small lively towns, decorating the Mediterranean scenery.
Both you and the kids will have a great time enjoying the baby-blue water and soft sand, where you can sunbathe and relax while the children play! There are also several playgrounds and parks, prepared to be enjoyed by families.
Amalfi Coast might not be the number one place for sightseeing and educational tours, but it is a great way to loosen up and just have the time for yourself. Not every trip has to be active and excursion-heavy. Sometimes, you can just chill!
6. Sicily
Sicily is one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, and it is also kid-friendly. There are two sides to this island – lively beaches mixing together with ancient sites and popular tourist attractions. This way, you can learn new things regarding history and culture, and afterward, relax at the beach or have fun at family-friendly parties on the coast.
However, Sicily might be your best choice if you go with older children and not toddlers. While there is much entertainment for youngsters, the main attractions require a firm attention span and a thirst for knowledge. For example, you could have a fantastic time touring Mount Etna, a still active volcano, or visiting one of many archeological sites.
Make sure you whip up some sort of itinerary before going to Sicily. There are so many things to see here – better to be prepared!
7. Florence
A city oozing culture and art, Florence might not seem like the most suitable destination for a family trip, but there are plenty of things to do here with kids as well.
A great advantage of a city as small as Florence is that you can walk everywhere. This way, the children are naturally captured by the sights of Renaissance buildings and artsy sceneries.
While exploring the most popular places, you will inevitably reach the neighborhoods of Santo Spirito and Santa Maria Novella. Both of these are near the river and within walking distance of the main attractions, and the reason why they are both so lovely and suitable for children is because of the parks and playgrounds you will find here! There are also many great restaurants in the area, so it will be easy to re-energize after all the walking and games.
Also, make sure to visit the Boboli Gardens and the Uffizi Museum, with children’s tours to the Michelangelo galleries and interactive exhibits for youngsters.
As you can see, there are many wonderful places in Italy for both kids and adults. So do not be discouraged while planning the holiday – we guarantee that the children will have fun here as well! Many of the places mentioned above are stroller-friendly, and if you are taking children closer to their teenage years, all of the most popular sites are suitable for them. So have the most fantastic time in the most amazing Italy!
Final Thoughts
Italy’s most famous cities are iconic for good reason—but they don’t tell the whole story. The lesser-known destinations scattered throughout the country offer an entirely different side of Italian life—slower, more personal, and often far more memorable. These breathtaking places can transform your trip from a checklist of landmarks into an immersive journey of discovery.
Choosing to step off the tourist trail allows you to connect more deeply with the country’s traditions, landscapes, and people. You’ll eat better, spend less, and experience Italy in a way that feels intimate and unfiltered. It’s not just about avoiding crowds—it’s about finding a piece of Italy that still feels untouched.
So next time you plan a trip to Italy, consider skipping the obvious for something extraordinary. Whether it’s a quiet fishing village, a hilltop hamlet, or a lakeside retreat, these under-the-radar gems will leave you wondering why more people haven’t found them—and grateful that you did.
Let us know in the comments below which one of these best 7 places to visit Italy is your favorite?
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.