Romantic cities, beautiful sandy beaches, and fantastic food, Italy is simply a must-visit destination. But if you’ve already seen all the famed spots, such as Cinque Terre, Rome, and Venice, or are like us and prefer the less-visited places, you have something to look forward to.
In this article, we will reveal the 7 incredible hidden gems in Italy to visit in 2024. You just pack your bags and head straight there, until they remain undiscovered.
Alberobello
Italy is full of fairytale towns and villages, but Alberobello is perhaps one of the most unique ones. It’s located in Puglia and it’s known for the traditional trulli – funny-looking limestone houses with conical roofs. Travel back in time walking the crooked streets and admiring the distinctive houses. Don’t forget to stop by at the Church of Saint Anthony.
It’s also a must-visit place for foodies. Puglia boasts amazing cuisine, and Alberobello is no exception. Try the local orecchiette pasta, zampina, or bari focacia. The region is also known for fantastic wine and seafood.
Santuario Madonna Della Corona, Spiazzi
If you find yourself this summer in Verona, don’t forget to take a day trip to Santuario Madonna Della Corona. This picturesque sanctuary sits on the edge of a cliff near Monte Baldo and is a popular pilgrimage destination as well as a place to enjoy a bit of serenity in nature.
To get there, you can take a short walk from a tiny village called Spiazzi. It shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes, and it’s relatively easy. It provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and you will also pass bronze sculptures by the Veronese architect Raffaele Bonente.
Once you reach the top, you can explore the inside of the sanctuary or just savor the tranquility of the place. There is also a little café with a terrace serving drinks and light food to refuel.
Tavolara Island, Sardinia
Set just off the northeast coast of Sardinia, this limestone massif island is a paradise for all beachgoers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts.
As soon as you reach the island by ferry, you can settle down at its iconic Spalmatore di Terra Beach and then drift to the crystal-clear sea. On the other hand, those who prefer to be more active will appreciate the great hikes there. Just note that they’re not for everybody – all of them require a guide and good equipment, as most of them feature some sort of rappelling and ferratas.
Already falling in love with it? Sadly, you can’t sleep on Tavolara Island. However, as it’s not far from the main island, you can easily come again the next day.
Saturnia Hot Springs
Do you like to indulge in wellness and therapeutic procedures while on holiday? Then consider visiting Saturnia Hot Springs – natural hot springs in the idyllic Tuscan countryside that have been a favorite spot for relaxation for centuries.
Soaking in them offers various health benefits, including relaxation, improving circulation, and soothing muscle aches and pains – perfect if you did some hiking the day before. Above the springs, you will find a little town of Saturnia, which is also worth exploring as it’s home to remains of various ancient cultures.
Cima Cadin
Is hiking in the alpine scenery one of the items on your 2024 itinerary? The Dolomites are home to breathtaking hikes, one of which is the one to Cima Cadin – a forgotten but majestic peak with amazing vistas.
It’s quite easy to access through Via Ferrata Merlone which features a wide network of ladders (we wouldn’t recommend it for complete newbies, though). The hike starts at the refuge just below the summit and takes around 5-6 hours both ways. If you’re then continuing your journey, we recommend you stay for the night – it’s pretty cute.
Cala Goloritze, Sardinia
Sardinia is renowned for its stunning beaches, but this one seems to be out of the world and yet, it’s never too busy, as it’s protected. It’s only accessible by a hike or boats, which have to stay 200 meters from the shore so the beach won’t spoil.
A tall limestone pinnacle rises above the cove and provides a beautiful backdrop for relaxing in the sand or taking photos. You can also get your adrenaline pumping by climbing to the peak. On the other hand, the turquoise water is excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving – the marine life in Cala Goloritze is very rich.
Scola Tower
Set in the Gulf of Poets, Scola Tower is a fascinating fortress that was created to look after the neighboring Palmaria Island. It was built at the beginning of the 17th century and remained in use until 1800 when it was severely damaged by the British during the Napoleonic Wars. Then abandoned for years, it was planned to be demolished. Luckily, this gem was saved by Ubaldo Mazzini and eventually turned into an important historical sight.
Today, it’s a sought-after point of interest by both locals and tourists. And even though it can’t be visited, you can glimpse it from a distance or snap a dramatic pic when going to Palmaria Island by ferry.