Top 5 little-known cities in Italy tourists can enjoy no less than more popular ones

Thousands of tourists jostle in long lines in front of the gondolas in Venice and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, Italy is full of amazing cities with enchanting views, atmospheric cafes, and ancient monuments. OBOZREVATEL has collected 5 little-known places in Italy for a week-long vacation.

Tivoli

The ancient city of Tivoli is located just 35 kilometers from Rome. It was founded in 1215 BC. Of course, almost nothing has remained since then. However, the city does have something to see.

Most tourists are attracted by the healing springs, beautiful park areas, and two luxury villas listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The first of them is the Hadrian's Villa. Although the estate is now dilapidated, its luxury and architectural concept are still impressive. There are more than 30 buildings on the territory of the residence, each named after a province of the Roman Empire. The main palace is surrounded by a park with warm springs and a swimming pool, a marine theater, and a special building for 300 guards. Today, the villa houses The Canopus, where you can see copies and originals of ancient Roman statues.

It will be no less interesting to visit Villa d'Este, which is called a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. This amazing castle was built by Governor Ippolito II d'Este in the 16th century. Numerous wars caused great damage to the unique stucco moldings and columns of the residence. After the Second World War, a large-scale restoration was carried out here. Today, tourists can admire almost the same appearance of the villa as it was 500 years ago.

The highlight of the location is undoubtedly the Alley of the Hundred Fountains. Each of them has a subtext and deep meaning. For example, one represents the Seven Hills of Rome, and the other demonstrates scenes from Ovid's Metamorphoses. In total, there are more than 500 fountains on the territory.

Amalfi

If you prefer a beach vacation, then be sure to stop in Amalfi. This town is located south of Naples and has a long history. Thus, in the morning, you can soak up the clear waters of the Gulf of Salerno, and in the afternoon, you can go on a tour of the narrow streets of the Italian province.

The oldest place in Amalfi is the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called. The temple combines 5 architectural styles at once. The locals believe that the relics of one of the disciples of Jesus Christ are kept in the shrine. However, the clergy do not comment on this legend.

An unusual, and therefore even more interesting, location in the city is the Garden of Eden. This is not a central park or some beautiful alley, but a real cemetery. Representatives of one of the ruling dynasties are buried here, after which Amalfi was named. This place really looks like a beautiful place on Earth. Orange trees, columns, arches, paths covered with various greenery - all of this is a source of inspiration for tourists.

Bergamo

The amazing Bergamo is located 50 kilometers from the world's fashion capital, Milan. Architecturally and atmospherically, the city is divided into two parts. The upper one is located on a hill and surrounded by a high stone bastion. The main sights that everyone should see are located here: Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, San Giacomo and San Agostino gates, fortifications from the time of the Venetian Republic, and numerous towers.

The lower city is completely different from the historic center of Bergamo. It has wide streets, modern high-rise buildings, coffee shops, nightclubs, and exhibition centers.

There is a beautiful Lake Iseo not far from the province. It is surrounded by mountain ranges. And right in the middle is Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe.

Turin

If you want to see a "classic" Italian city, this is the place to go. Turin is located 2 hours from Venice and just an hour from France. You can wander the long local streets almost forever. The city has 18 different galleries, many museums and exhibition centers.

It is better to start a tour of Turin from Piazza Castello, where almost all the sights on every tourist's "must-see" list are concentrated. Among them are the Royal Castle, Palazzo Madama with a museum of ancient art inside, and the Palatine Gate, which has been operating since the 1st century BC.

We also recommend visiting the Superga Basilica, Valentino Castle, and the Antonelliana Tower. These striking buildings will amaze you with their Italian exquisite beauty.

Cinque Terre

You can walk along the longest hiking route in northwestern Italy in the Cinque Terre Park. Once upon a time, these were small fishing villages on the slopes of the mountains. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along which the Path of Love stretches.

In the villages of Monterosso, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Corniglia, which form the route, tourists mostly like the colorful small houses and lush vineyards. You can see the local sights, including many churches and fortifications, both from land and water. There are sightseeing ships and yachts along the coast.