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Italy is a bucket list destination for many travelers, but it is notoriously crowded and saturated with tourists during the peak summer months.
As Italy expects its busiest summer on record, several measures have been put in place, including limits on tourists on popular Sardinian beaches and a €270 ($288 USD) fine for taking selfies at a popular spot in Portofino.
Instead of visiting the most popular and crowded destinations in Italy this summer, here are six underrated places to consider:
1. Ischia, Italy
Forget the Amalfi Coast and the islands of Capri or Procida this summer. The island of Ischia is much larger, making it less crowded and more affordable than its more popular counterparts.
While Ischia is a well-known summer getaway for Italians, it hasn’t caught the attention of international tourists yet.
This island is about an hour from Naples by ferry, and its highlights include Castello Aragonese, an ancient castle on a small island, numerous thermal spas, and excellent beaches.
2. Umbria, Italy
The Umbria region is a great alternative to Tuscany if you’re looking to get a taste of the Italian countryside this summer.
Although located next to Tuscany, Umbria is less touristy due to fewer trains and roads. This central region of Italy is known for its beautiful medieval hilltop towns and local cuisine, especially truffles and wine.
Don’t miss Perugia, the charming regional capital of Umbria.
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3. Treviso, Italy
Venice is one of the most iconic destinations in Italy. With 117 small islands, 177 canals, and 391 bridges, it’s a city like no other.
However, Venice has also suffered from some of the worst overtourism in Italy, and summer can be a hot, crowded and unpleasant time to visit.
Instead, consider Treviso. Located in the Veneto region of Italy, less than 40 minutes from Venice by train, this historic city also boasts beautiful architecture and numerous canals, without the crowds.
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4. Bergamo, Italy
Another underrated Italian destination to add to your travel wish list is Bergamo. Located northeast of Milan in the Lombardy region, Bergamo is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Italy.
However, this city is highly underrated and remains off the radar of many tourists in Italy.
While in Bergamo, you cannot miss Città Alta, the historic upper town surrounded by ancient walls and accessible by funicular.
5. Lake Orta, Italy
Northern Italy has several famous lakes, including Lake Como, a glamorous playground for the rich and famous, and Lake Garda, a popular summer vacation destination.
But the smaller Lake Orta, located northwest of Milan, is a destination that doesn’t get as much acclaim. It’s tucked away next to the much larger Lago Maggiore, but Lake Orta is a hidden gem not to be missed.
It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, surrounded by charming and picturesque villages. Especially you can’t miss Isola San Giulio, a beautiful little island in the center of the lake.
6. Bologna, Italy
Finally, Bologna is a great city in Italy to visit for fewer crowds and a more authentic experience. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna, is known to be a paradise for foodies.
Widely considered one of the best culinary cities in Italy, Bologna is a top destination for pasta dishes, meats, and cheeses.
It is also a very lively city thanks to its large student population, and it does not lack history or charm either. Bologna is less than 40 minutes from Florence by train, making it a great day trip (or a place to stay longer if you’re looking for a less touristy base).
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
