Italy's most underwhelming spots—and where you should go instead
What's the story
Italy is famous for its iconic landmarks and busy tourist spots. However, some of these places can be pretty underwhelming owing to the crowd and commercialization.
Exploring the lesser-known alternatives can let you experience the true essence of Italy, sans the usual hustle and bustle.
Here's taking a look at some of these alternatives, and how you can enjoy Italy's rich culture and history, away from the tourist traps.
Tuscany alternatives
Discovering hidden gems in Tuscany
While Florence attracts many, smaller towns like Lucca offer a quieter charm with their medieval walls and cobblestone streets.
Lucca gives you an opportunity to explore historical architecture without the crowds found in larger cities.
You can enjoy cycling around the city walls or visit locals' markets for an authentic Tuscan experience.
Lake options
Exploring tranquil lakes beyond Como
Though Lake Como is world-famous for its beauty, it's also usually crowded during peak seasons.
Instead, you might want to visit Lake Orta or Lake Iseo.
These lakes offer breathtakingly beautiful landscapes with less crowd, so you can enjoy some peaceful boat rides or scenic hikes along their shores.
Sicily insights
Experiencing authentic Sicilian culture
While Palermo is a famous tourist spot in Sicily, visiting towns such as Ragusa gives you a taste of the traditional Sicilian life.
Ragusa is dotted with beautiful baroque architecture and its local cuisine showcases the cultural diversity of the island.
Strolling through its narrow streets is a cultural experience in itself.
Rome exploration
Uncovering Rome's lesser-known neighborhoods
While Rome's iconic landmarks are unmissable, the Trastevere neighborhood gives a glimpse of the city's vibrant life.
Famous for its charming alleys and active piazzas, Trastevere calls out to tourists to dig deep into local restaurants and browse through artisan shops.
This place offers a calm respite from the thronged tourist attractions. It makes you dive into Rome's rich cultural fabric, away from the usual rush.