I foreign tourists many holiday resorts in Italy now crowd: our country, over the last few years, has become one of the favorite destinations especially for Americans. Cities of art such as Rome, Venice and Florence are the most popular, places that enchant with their timeless charm. There are those who do not disdain the mountains, including the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, and those who prefer the sea, from Sardinia to the Amalfi Coast. But the US press began to focus on lesser-known destinations, where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday. Here are the most loved ones.
The lesser-known art cities in Italy
While many tourists flock to the splendid squares of Rome and the enchanting Venetian streets, the Travel+Leisure takes Americans to discover Italian locations that are undoubtedly less well-known, but no less fascinating. Thus, among the cities of art, the one that stands out Trieste: considered one of the most elegant in Italy, it boasts a very rich historical and architectural heritage waiting to be discovered. Overlooking the northern Adriatic Sea, it was for a very long time the only maritime commercial outlet for Austria, during the Habsburg rule. Among the places absolutely worth visiting is the Miramare Castlenoble residence of the Archduke of Austria Maximilian of Habsburg-Lorraine.
Instead we have to go down a little further south to meet Ravennaanother destination underestimated by foreign tourists, yet a true treasure chest of surprises. In addition to being one of the cities to which the prestigious figure of Dante Alighieri is linked, it is also an important artistic and historical center: Romans, Ostrogoths and Byzantines passed through here, leaving their mark on precious buildings and mosaics that enchant visitors. An unmissable stop is the Basilica of San Vitalea UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the other Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna.
Between sea and mountains: the lesser-known locations
Italy attracts many foreign tourists thanks to its dream beaches and the imposing mountains where there are ski resorts with slopes for all tastes (and abilities). But where to go, if you want to stay away from the crowds? In Calabria, there is a wonderful village that many have nicknamed the “lesser known cousin of Tropea”. We are talking about Protection paymenta small town that extends along the famous Costa degli Dei, ideal for those who want to spend their holidays in small sandy coves with crystal clear water.
Combining history and beach holidays? The destination to choose is without a doubt Paestum: the ancient city of Magna Graecia, located along the Campania coast in the province of Salerno, is an archaeological park of great charm, although much less known than the nearby sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. It is therefore the perfect place to immerse yourself in the ancient testimonies of the past, and then enjoy a day at the beach without having to elbow your way through other tourists. In fact, nearby there is a town overlooking the sea, where hotels and restaurants spring up to satisfy every need.
Finally, all we have to do is go to the mountains: if the Dolomites are the most enchanting setting for ski holidays, an excellent starting point could be the city of Brixen. The historic center hosts some splendid architectures to be discovered, furthermore there are many places where you can taste the typical dishes of the place. It takes very little, then, to reach some of the most famous ski resorts in the area, while in the summer there awaits us lots of nature excursions or long mountain bike rides, for adults and children.
