There is both irony and truth in the fact that most travelers want to stay away from fellow tourists while on vacation — which is why opting out of popular Italian destinations like Rome, Venice and Positano is a wise choice for those who seek peace and quiet.
These alternative Italian destinations may not have the fame of more frequented cities, but they do have similar charm and features, as well as the advantage of a calmer atmosphere.
Instead of Venice, Visit Treviso
The thought of canals in Italy may conjure an image of Venice, but that tends to be the root of the problem: Everyone knows about Venice. Clients can beat the rush by taking a 30-minute train ride to Treviso, a lesser-known city in northeastern Italy where canals are fed by two streams from the Riviera Garibaldi. Like Venice, there are also famous cultural landmarks, including the St. Francis Church, and romantic cobblestone streets.
The Treviso canals form islands among the city.
Credit: 2020 Creative Commons user hagengraf
Seekers of arts and culture can find Renaissance art amid the medieval brick buildings and canals, and the lack of heavy tourism can mean an easier, quieter time. Foodies can also take a jaunt through the fish market, which lies on its own island within the city. Prosecco from vineyards surrounding the town also makes for excellent tasting opportunities.
Instead of Positano, Visit Atrani
The Amalfi Coast’s beachy and carefree atmosphere that makes Positano such a frequented destination can be easily ruined by loud crowds. Instead of Positano, clients can opt for a trip to Atrani, a coastal fishing village with a small population located a little more than 30 minutes away from Positano by car.
The winding streets of Atrani can be fun to explore after a trip to the beach.
Credit: 2020 Creative Commons user namoscatoThe town mixes authentic Italian charm with the relaxing atmosphere of a beach resort. There are also plenty of opportunities to stroll along the streets while viewing churches and piazzas dating back to the 13th century. The architecture may be older and seemingly less glamorous, but the small-town feeling is an excellent alternative to the pressure of other wildly popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast.
Instead of Rome, Visit Stilo
Rome is best known for its rich history and the buildings left over from the Roman Empire, but history lovers do not have to worry about others cramping their style on a visit to Stilo in Calabria. Stilo, which is accessible by train from other popular Italian cities, was formed during the Byzantine Empire by monks that also built Cattolica di Stilo, one of the most famous churches in Calabria.
Architecture from the Middle Ages and Baroque period are on display in Stilo, and visitors can see the Norman castle ruins on top of Monte Consolino as well. The town is also very walkable for those who would rather trust their own feet than a bus. Moreover, the Ionian coast is not far away, so visitors can cap their historic vacation with a trip to the beach.
Instead of Florence, Visit Saluzzo
Tourists visit Florence for its history, architecture and Renaissance art, but they’re also likely to rub shoulders with throngs of other visitors. For clients in search of a town where they can gaze calmly at colorful buildings and religious, old-world art, Saluzzo in the Piedmont region fits the bill.
The Cathedral of the Assumption — built in the 1500s — contains baroque art and the architecture of the period, as does the Church of Saint Giovanni. Lovely piazzas fill Saluzzo with beauty, history and opportunities for exploration, all without the sound of people chattering about their next bowl of pasta.
