13 January 2020
Written By Jesse Fell:
In 2010, Jesse walked into his first Italian class and knew right away there was no turning back. With an extensive background in musical studies, he discovered a natural inclination for languages and now speaks fluent Italian with a nearly impeccable accent. Jesse was born with a love of adventure, and his Italian heritage eventually inspired him to go to Italy to teach English. Through his journeys, he developed a strong pen and is now an avid writer and influencer for all things Italy. Although this incredibly diverse country is home to countless ‘borghi’ and little-known historic gems, we hope you enjoy learning about 10 of our absolute favorite under-the-radar villages to visit on your next trip. Know of a hidden treasure that you think should be on the list? Send us an email at info@nadasitaly.com and let us know! Ciao!
1. Castiglione del Lago (Umbria region )
This sleepy Umbrian town seems to rise out of the sparkling waters of Lake Trasimeno, and its hilltop position offers plenty of opportunities to snap a panoramic photo of the surrounding countryside! Conquered by the Etruscans, the village was eventually fortified in the middle ages with the massive “Rocca del Leone” fortress, constructed in a strange pentagonal shape with three gates to the city and a triangular tower. The unique shape is said to mirror the Leo constellation that dominates the night sky over the lake. Many of the town’s treasures were constructed during the Renaissance by the wealthy Della Corgna family, including the Palazzo Ducale adorned with stunning frescoes. One visit to this gem and you’re sure to fall under its spell… much like some of the town’s past guests, which included Niccolò Macchievelli and even Leonardo da Vinci!
Come explore this charming village on our Wine & Traditions Of Tuscany Tour
2. Pietrasanta (Tuscany region)
A quaint coastal town in the province of Lucca, Pietrasanta has been the center of Italy’s art scene for more than 6 centuries. Once a stop for pilgrims following the Via Francigena to Rome, echoes of the city’s Roman origins remain; from the narrow streets that form a typical Roman grid layout (uncommon in Tuscany), to a small stretch of the Roman wall that still stands. Thanks in part to the nearby marble quarries of Carrara, it was here that Michelangelo chose to take up residence! In more recent years, Pietrasanta has drawn scores of international artists and sculptors with over 15 contemporary art galleries dotting the historic center. To catch one of the many exhibitions, the best time to visit is June through September. Pietrasanta is a cultural hub for more than just artists, with countless local trattorie, wine bars, and boutiques waiting to be discovered around every corner! To top it all off, the pristine beaches of Forte dei Marmi are just 2 miles away.
Come explore this charming village on our Tuscan Villages & Cinque Terre Tour
3. Montagnana ( Veneto region )
Italy is home to countless historic wonders and medieval gems, and Montagnana is the sparkling crown jewel! A quaint village in the quiet green plains of Verona, Montagnana appears today almost exactly as it was in the 14th century. The impressive medieval walls are among the most well-preserved in all of Europe, and feature 24 hexagonal towers and 4 city gates including the Porta Legnano, also known as the Fortress of the Trees, still preserving the original 13th century wooden doors. From the Rocca degli Alberi, a 14th century castle, to the Castle of San Zeno and the city’s cathedral in the main piazza, this incredible city boasts a rich variety of history, culture, and unique traditions that can still be experienced today.
Come explore this charming village on our Flavors of Verona & Lake Garda
4. Barbaresco ( Piemonte region )
You may have sampled a glass or two of this delectable wine, but few travelers are familiar with the town of Barbaresco nestled in the beautiful ‘Le Langhe’ area of Piemonte! Famous for its namesake wine crafted from Nebbiolo grapes, this tiny, dreamy village rises from the fog atop the rolling hills of Italy’s northwestern wine territory, just south of Turin. Take a walk down the town’s only road, lined with world-class wine bars – even the church is a tasting room! Despite some of the world’s best wines being made here, you won’t find crowds of tourists. The locals here have a deep respect for the land and all it yields, and you’ll likely find them sloshing around town in work clothes and muddy boots. To fully appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of the area, take a deep breath and gaze out over the sea of vineyards with little villages and castles perched high on the hilltops, and just… be.
Come explore this charming village on our Northern Delights Tour
5. Noto ( Sicily )
This sparkling Baroque jewel located about an hour from Catania in the Val di Noto region, is one of the most jaw-dropping villages in Sicily! Noto is a living monument to the late Baroque style of the early 18th century, with ornately adorned churches, palaces, and grandiose piazzas all in such perfect harmony you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set! There are many ways to get to Noto, but the best way to experience the Baroque Capital is to start by entering through the Porta Reale that leads you to the city’s main road. Visit the towering Cathedral of San Nicolò, completed in 1758, and make your way down Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to Palazzo Nicolaci, an impressive historic residence that perfectly embodies the opulence of Noto. Perhaps the best way to experience this gem is to simply lose yourself among the winding streets and cobblestone alleys!
Come explore this charming village on our Sizzling Sicily Tour
6. Ostuni ( Puglia region )
A pearl of Mediterranean elegance, this whitewashed city perched high above the sparkling Adriatic Sea is crisscrossed with narrow cobbled streets, twisting staircases, and passages waiting to be explored by the curious traveler. Known as the white city of Salento, the immaculate baroque palazzi and pure white buildings seem plucked from a postcard. Enter through the ancient city walls and travel back in time, following the via Cattedrale to the city’s main cathedral and marvelous main piazza. A feast for more than just the eyes, however, Ostuni is perhaps one of the best villages to lose yourself among the winding streets and discover some of the most amazing local dishes that are found only in Puglia! Once you’ve gorged on fresh fish, local vegetables and a glass of local wine, head to the nearby sandy beaches and rocky outcrops for a dip in the stunning turquoise waters.
Come explore this charming village on our Puglia Paradise Tour
7. Gradara ( Marche region )
Venture further up Italy’s Adriatic coast to the region of Le Marche, and you’ll find another magnificent walled village that cherishes its rich history and local traditions. After marveling at the wonderfully preserved 13th century walls, you may find yourself swept away by one of the city’s many colorful historic reenactments! Gradara is home to a full calendar of reenactments and events, in which locals don beautifully colored historic costumes and perform some of the most prominent events and stories from the village’s vast heritage. One of the most interesting and well-known stories is that of Paolo and Francesca, found in the pages of Dante’s Divine Comedy! The 12th century castle overlooking the town becomes the setting for this story, and you can visit the stunning castle and its 98 ft tower yourself… perhaps after sampling some of the excellent Marchigiano-Romagnola cuisine, featuring a wide array of ancient recipes and traditional gastronomic dishes.
Come explore this charming village on our La Dolce Vita Tour
8. Montefalco (Umbria region – Dolce Vita)
Venture to Italy’s beating green heart, and step out onto the “balcony of Umbria” perched high above vineyards, wine trails, rolling green valleys, and hills blanketed with fragrant wildflowers. This eccentric hidden gem in the region of Umbria can be found in the Apennine mountains of Italy’s only landlocked region, and on a clear day it’s possible for visitors to admire a 360° panorama of the surrounding countryside that stretches from Perugia to Spoleto! This quaint village is enveloped by nature, history, and culture, preserving a rich artistic heritage unique to the Umbrian school. Visit the stunning works in the museum of San Francesco, or enjoy a relaxing “passeggiata” in the beautiful circular piazza. This stylish village appeals to the gastronomic traveler as well, serving as the perfect hub for simple, genuine, world-class cuisine and rich local wines. Indulge all your senses, and enjoy truly living “la dolce vita”!
Come explore this charming village on our La Dolce Vita Tour
9. Vico Equense ( Campania region )
Hidden high on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Vico Equense is a colorful jewel that remains largely undiscovered by even the most seasoned travelers. The first town on the Sorrentine peninsula, it is affectionately referred to by locals as “Vico”, and is found only about 10 minutes from Sorrento. One of the most breathtaking sights found in this beautiful village is the pink façade of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, a rare example of Gothic architecture perched on the cliff directly above the deep blue waters of the Bay of Naples. Gaze out from the high terraces across the bay and admire unparalleled views of the city of Naples and the towering Mount Vesuvius. Discover Vico Equense’s chic appeal and sumptuous natural beauty, and when visiting be sure to sample the famous pizza by the meter; a local variation with a slightly deeper crust than it’s Neapolitan cousin, that’s served in huge rectangles and cut into individual slices!
Come explore this charming village on our Jewels Of The Amalfi Coast Tour
10. Castagneto Carducci ( Tuscany region )
Classic Tuscan elegance is embodied by the narrow streets, romantic piazzas, and dreamy palazzi of Castagneto Carducci. Over the centuries, the city center has grown around the massive Medieval castle dominating the historic city center radiating into a myriad of cobbled alleys and terracing buildings, perfect for admiring the surrounding valleys and sparkling sea in the distance. Originally named Castagneto Marittimo, the name was changed in 1907 to honor Giosuè Carducci, one of the greatest Italian poets of the 19th century that spent his childhood here. Situated along the Etruscan Coast, the town lies very nearby to beautiful beaches making it a perfect base for vacationers to enjoy a relaxing holiday by the sea. Immerse yourself into the homey lifestyle of southern Tuscany, and enjoy a relaxing evening with friends among the many family-run tattorie and cozy wine bars.
Come explore this charming village on our Tuscan Villages & Cinque Terre Tour