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- Discover Even More Of The Best Hidden Gems In Northern Italy
Summary
- Explore the hidden gems of Northern Italy, including historic towns, architectural wonders, and stunning landscapes.
- Visit Trezzo Sull'Adda for its UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural masterpieces like Visconti Castle.
- Discover the picturesque town of Moltrasio on Lake Como, known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
Italy is home to classic and truly sophisticated places many travelers dream of visiting! Indeed, there are many things to see that are unique to North and South Italy, including handfuls of Italian towns and cities that tourists might have never heard of. This notion becomes particularly apparent when exploring the hidden gems in Northern Italy, though.
The hidden gems Northern Italy has in store for travelers adventuring off the beaten path deserve attention because they offer everything from landscapes to chocolate spreads and race cars. For those hoping to stray away from the crowds and discover a different side of this stunning European country, here's a list of eighteen of the best but hidden gems in Northern Italy that tourists should consider visiting.
UPDATE: 2023/01/01 15:57 EST BY REENA JAIN
Discover Even More Of The Best Hidden Gems In Northern Italy
This list has been updated to include two more of Northern Italy's hidden gems, as well as updated information about the ones that were previously on it. Plan a vacation itinerary for Italy around these secret spots!
18 Trezzo Sull’Adda
A historic UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short drive from Milan
Even though Trezzo sull'Adda is only 19 miles from Milan, it's a charming Italian village that is easy to overlook. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many architectural wonders, including Visconti Castle, a 14th-century citadel.
Villa Cavenago, one of the most exquisite and stunning monuments in Trezzo, is another must-see sight.
- When to visit: Spring and fall for ideal weather and picturesque landscapes
- Attractions: Castello Visconteo, Villa Cavenago, Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant
17 Moltrasio
A historic town on the western shore of Lake Como filled with natural beauty
Situated near the Swiss border on the western shore of Lake Como, Moltrasio is a picturesque gem of immense historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. There are several amazing spots to take in the surrounding natural grandeur.
Plus, the Church of San Martino and Sant’Agata provides a glimpse into the region's rich past.
- When to visit: May to September for pleasant weather and colorful flora
- Attractions: Church of San Martino and Sant’Agata, The Oratory and the Tower of San Rocco, Passalacqua Hotel
16 Imbersago
A historic town with medieval watch towers and ancient churches on the Adda River
Located a few kilometers northeast of Milan in the Province of Lecco is the nondescript commune of Imbersago (but it can be considered a hidden gem of Northern Italy). With ancient churches, medieval watchtowers, and 17th-century shrines, Imbersago has a rich artistic and architectural heritage.
The highlight of the town, however, is its location; Imbersago is perched on the banks of the Adda River and is connected to Villa d'Adda on the opposite side via a ferry. This is no ordinary ferry, however.
The Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry is believed to be the only reaction ferry in Italy. That is, the boat runs on an overhead cable that is adjusted based on the river's currents rather than a motorized engine. Fascinatingly, it's believed that the ferry was designed by the great Leonardo Da Vinci himself!
- When to visit: May to June for moderate weather and blooming landscapes
- Attractions: Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry, Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Woods, Monsereno Horses
15 Borghetto
A riverside village on the Mincio with castles, forts, and old bridges
One of the many hidden gem destinations in Northern Italy, Borghetto is a small village in the Province of Verona, renowned country-wide for its charming beauty. Many find Borghetto a strong contender for the title of Italy's most beautiful village. Borghetto is a riverside village that sits along the River Mincio and parts of it are even built over the water body.
Visitors will find that Borghetto retains much of its medieval glory; its forts, castles, and bridges have weathered the test of time surprisingly well. The only word of advice? While the village has cafés and small hotels, Borghetto lacks things like post offices and pharmacies. It is one of the secret places in Italy, after all!
- When to visit: Spring and fall for beautiful weather for sightseeing and outdoor fun
- Attractions: Sigurtà Garden Park, Scaliger Castle, Mantova Strada
14 Camogli
Explore this fishing village's colorful houses, promenades, and medieval castles rising from the sea
Open seas, fresh seafood, colorful buildings, and wide beaches may all seem like things better left to the coastal villages of Southern Italy, but that's only because visitors overlook the lesser-known seaside town of Camogli in the north.
Another one of the secret places in Northern Italy, Camogli is a fishing village located on the west side of the famous Portofino, close to Genoa. Much like the towns along the Amalfi Coast, Camogli's pastel-colored buildings rise from the sea and are flanked by medieval castles, small trattorias, and breezy promenades.
When searching for lesser-known Italian places to visit, head to Camogli and discover one of the most beautiful towns in Italy (not on the Amalfi Coast for a change!)
- When to visit: May to September for warm weather ideal for hiking and other activities
- Attractions: Basilica Santa Maria Assunta, Portofino Natural Park, Abbazia di San Fruttuoso
13 Bormio
Enjoy hot springs, summer skiing, and snow-capped mountains in this ancient spa town
Bormio is the best of both worlds: it offers the icy adventures of the neighboring country Switzerland but with the dolce vita of Italy. The ancient spa town, with its snow-capped mountains and natural hot springs, is one of the many North Italian hidden gem towns nestled between the Alps of the Lombardy region.
Bormio has the rustic charm that is expected of ski towns but with the warmth of Italy, where alpine resorts and spas sit next to pizzerias, trattorias, and aperitivo bars.
- When to visit: June to September and December to February for summer and winter action respectively
- Attractions: Stelvio Slope, Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio, Routes & Trails
12 Saturnia Hot Springs
Soak in healing warm waters heated by surrounding volcanoes
The Saturnia hot springs are located in the spa town of Tuscany. It is dubbed Italy's best-kept secret, but it has gained in popularity, and it’s not exactly a secretive spot anymore. It has streams of sparkling blue water that are heated by the surrounding volcanoes in the area.
The stream of water keeps the spring at 37 degrees. A peaceful dip in one of the many pools of the spring is exquisite, especially if tourists visit at sunrise and sunset. Don't fuss; this place is free to visit and open 24/7!
- When to visit: Spring and fall; milder temperatures and serene ambiance
- Attractions: Cascate del Mulino, Terme di Saturnia
11 Passo Gardena
A stunning alpine pass connecting Val Gardena with Val Badia
There are plenty of beautiful towns in Italy with amazing views of the Dolomites; however, for fans of driving, the Passo Gardena can rival them all, as it's easily one of the most scenic drives in Northern Italy.
One of the hidden gem places in Northern Italy, "Passo Gardena" translates to "Garden Pass", which is a road loved by road trippers and bikers. As its name suggests, the road is a mountain pass that provides an overlooking view of mountain ranges, including the magnificent Dolomite mountains.
The Passo Gardena was originally Constructed in World War 1, but today, on top of the pass, there are accommodations where travelers can stay, along with other shops for convenience.
- When to visit: June to September for vibrant landscapes and perfect weather for outdoor activities
- Attractions: Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience, Sellaronda Ski Tour, Trail Arena Val Gardena
10 Lake Orta
A historic alpine retreat with a vintage feel, medieval buildings, and nearby islands
North of Milan, only a local Milanese would recognize this lake because, just like how the elites pledge to Lake Como, a villa near Lake Orta is a status symbol. This lake features a vintage and historic vibe amid its surroundings, starting from the Alpine mountains wrapped around it and the buildings in its midst constructed in medieval times.
Classic to lavish, the island of Orta offers various accommodations. The grand palazzos on the nearby islands are often rented by vacationers from Italy and other neighboring countries during summer.
- When to visit: May to September when the weather is mild and blooming landscapes
- Attractions: Sacro Monte di Orta, San Giulio Island, Omegna
9 Treviso
A "Little Venice" with charming canals and preserved 15th-century buildings
Treviso is dubbed as one of the "Little Venices" because of its system of canals mirroring the popular canals of the city. This town is the definition of vintage because of its well-preserved buildings built in the 15th century. Tourists can stroll through Piazza Dei Signori, where the Renaissance palace, Palazzo Protorio, stands.
There are also plenty more sites to visit in Treviso, including Treviso Cathedral, the City Walls and Gates, and Treviso Casa dei Carraresi. Just like in Venice, visitors must not skip out on strolling along the picturesque water canals in Treviso.
- When to visit: April to June for lovely weather and fewer crowds
- Attractions: Piazza Dei Signori, Palazzo dei Trecento Treviso, Walls of Treviso Gates, Treviso Cathedral
8 Aosta Valley
Hot springs, vintage accommodation, ski mountains, and epic hiking
Aosta Valley is another one of the many hidden gem Northern Italian spots to visit, where vacationers can experience the natural beauty of Valle d’Aosta. It is easily among the best secret destinations in Northern Italy for anyone seeking a remote vacation with fewer crowds but with hot springs for winter, vintage vibe accommodations, and popular hikes in the Aosta Valley, all topped off with a splendid view of the region's ski mountains.
The Aosta Valley offers world-class attractions and activities all year round; it promises some of the best skiing in Italy in the winter and stunning vistas of mountain ranges on its hiking trails in the summer.
- When to visit: June to September for summer activities and December to February for winter action
- Attractions: Teatro Romano, Aosta, Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso, Osservatorio Astronomico della Regione Autonoma
7 Alba
An Instagrammable haven famed for white truffles, Michelin-star restaurants, and Nutella!
Alba, with its historic streets and rolling vineyards, is a retro Instagram filter in reality because of its lovely brownish lands, coupled with the alluring presence of thick hanging fog in the morning and at night.
This town is also popular for its aromatic and garlicky flavor underneath its grounds - Italy’s most popular product, white truffles. Hence, over the years and with its growing white truffle industry, this town and its neighboring areas have unsurprisingly birthed some of Italy’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Moreover, Alba is the home of the world’s most popular chocolate hazelnut spread, Nutella!
- When to visit: May to October when mild weather, festivals, and vibrant landscapes prevail
- Attractions: Abellonio - Cascina Piccaluga, Centro Storico, Langhe landscapes
6 Trieste
One of the largest producers of coffee in Italy, filled with Austro-Hungarian Empire buildings
There are many reasons to visit Trieste, one of which is that it's one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy. It's known as the country’s forgotten city yet now serves as one of the largest producers of coffee. Hence, this town oozes coffee shops and houses, and caffeine is a scent that every tourist would naturally associate with the town.
Because of its diversity, the town is also home to various cultural buildings built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. One of the more hidden places in Trieste is Catello di Miramare, a palace built in 1855 that overflows with history.
- When to visit: May to September for the best weather for outdoor activities
- Attractions: Piazza dell'Unita d'Italia, Historical Museum of the Miramare Castle, Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabb
5 Modena
Known for Bugatti race cars and exquisite Italian cuisine
Racecars and vinegar are two things that one could associate with Modena. Despite being unpopular with tourists, it's widely known for its Bugatti race cars since Bugatti once had a factory in the city.
However, the deserted factory never stops tourists from getting closer looks at the city’s collection of Maserati cars owned by the Panini family. Modena is also the home of some of the best Italian cuisines, like the tagliatelle ragu and the best Frutti di Mare.
- When to visit: April to October for its beautiful weather and a range of festivals
- Attractions: Duomo di Modena, Acetaia Villa San Donnino, Museum Enzo Ferrari Modena
4 Chiusa
Discover historic art and gothic buildings in the heart of the Italian Alps
This pretty little town is yet another one of the many beautiful hidden gems of Northern Italy; it has some of Italy's earliest art scenes, which date back centuries. Chiusa also boasts medieval beauty, with gothic churches, vintage accommodations, colorful buildings, and retro landscapes.
What's more, the town flaunts its museum that houses valuable pieces and Loreto treasures, from paintings to ceramic works of Italian and Spanish artists from centuries ago. Chiusa also offers delicious cuisines, from Alpine to Mediterranean flavors, within its classic to luxurious restaurants, such as Turmmwirt and Walther von der Vogelweide.
- When to visit: May to September for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes
- Attractions: Chiusa - Klausen, Kloster Säben - Monastero Di Sabiona, Maso Johannser Hof
3 Bergamo
An enchanting medieval town with historic buildings and a stunning Basilica
Cities like Bergamo are secret places that Italians like to keep to themselves. The streets in this little town are gorgeous, with vintage facades in the surrounding buildings and alleys.
Overall, there are many reasons to visit Bergamo, one of which is that it features the classic Basilica, which is embellished with gold ceilings and accessories. Another sophisticated building is the Casa Palma Camozzi Vertova, along with many more to be viewed when strolling the town's historic streets.
- When to visit: May to September for lovely weather and festivals
- Attractions: Colleoni di Solza Castle, Basilica S. Maria Maggiore, Palazzo Agliardi
2 South Tyrol
A rich cultural appeal and Alpine beauty
South Tyrol is a unique region of Northern Italy. The reason why this region as a whole is a gem of Northern Italy is that it is a German-speaking alpine region. Up until World War One, this region was part of Austria, and today, it preserves much of its German character and traditions, which is one of the reasons to visit South Tyrol (its beautiful mountain scenery is another).
The stunning mountainous region is a world apart from much of Italy, and it should be on anyone's bucket list. It feels completely different from the rest of Italy and boasts epic hiking, skiing, and many more outdoor adventures.
- When to visit: May to October for temperate weather excellent for outdoor activities
- Attractions: Val Gardena, Bolzano, Merano, Dolomites
1 Campione d'Italia
A unique enclave surrounded by Switzerland, with lake views and a rich culture
Campione d'Italia is another odd gem of North Italy. It is an Italian exclave in neighboring Switzerland, meaning that it's a small piece of Italy broken off from Italy and completely surrounded by Switzerland.
Campione d'Italia is located less than a kilometer from the rest of Italy, but to get there, visitors need to travel 14 kilometers along winding roads through Switzerland.
- When to visit: May to September for mild weather and vibrant events
- Attractions: Sanctuary of S. Maria dei Ghirli, The Oratory of San Pietro, Church of S. Zenone