Italy Travel Experts Urge Tourists to Abandon Major Cities for Hidden Regional Gems

Skip the crowds of Rome and Florence for the authentic charm of Pizzo, Torre di Palme, Barga, and Termoli—Italy’s best-kept secrets for 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 10, 2026, 8:56 AM EDT

Source: Business Insider

Calabria’s Coastal Alternative: The Charm of Pizzo

While the town of Tropea has dominated Calabrian travel itineraries in recent years, the nearby town of Pizzo offers a more preserved local experience. Known for its white-marbled sands and deep blue Ionian waters, Pizzo maintains an artisan atmosphere that remains largely unhurried. Beyond its coastal appeal, the town is the historic home of the "tartufo di Pizzo," a world-renowned chocolate and hazelnut gelato dessert. Visitors are encouraged to explore local markets for hand-painted ceramics and sample 'nduja, the region’s signature spicy spreadable salami, which offers a more intimate look at Calabrian culinary tradition.

The Balcony of the Adriatic: Torre di Palme

Located in the Marche region—frequently cited by locals as the most underrated area in central Italy—Torre di Palme serves as a perfect synthesis of medieval history and tropical aesthetics. Perched high above the sea, the village is nicknamed the "Balcony of the Adriatic" and is distinctive for the palm trees that line its ancient, cobblestone streets. This medieval enclave offers a rare vantage point over the coastline while providing access to regional specialties like olive all'ascolana, meat-stuffed fried olives that represent the heart of Marche’s gastronomic heritage.

Tuscany’s Surprising Scottish Enclave in Barga

Barga offers a unique historical narrative that defies typical Tuscan stereotypes. Known as "the most Scottish town in Italy," it houses a community shaped by a century of migration between Tuscany and Scotland. This cultural fusion results in a town where one might hear a Scottish accent while hiking through the rolling hills or find fish and chips alongside traditional pasta. Key landmarks include the Duomo di San Cristoforo, which provides panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape, and highly-regarded regional wineries like Podere Concori, which maintain the area's agricultural prestige.