Escape the Crowds: Why You Should Explore Italy’s Hidden Gems
- By: Julianne Elise Beffa
Experience Italy Like a Local…
It’s no secret that Italy is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. From the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient ruins of Rome and the Renaissance treasures of Florence, these iconic cities are practically a rite of passage for any traveler. But here’s the problem—everyone else has the same idea, too. Since last summer, the term “overtourism” has been making waves, describing the overwhelming surge of visitors in Italy’s most famous hotspots. The result? Skyrocketing prices, endless lines, and an experience that feels more like a battle for the perfect Instagram shot than an authentic getaway.
The good news? There’s an alternative—and it’s delicious. Enter Cesarine, a platform dedicated to experiential tourism, offering travelers the chance to explore Italy through its rich culinary heritage. With over 1,500 hosts across 500 towns and cities—many of which are blissfully off the beaten path—Cesarine provides the perfect excuse to swap the crowds for a more intimate and authentic Italian adventure.
Ditch the Tourists, Find the Flavors
Instead of elbowing your way through crowded piazzas, imagine stepping into a cozy Italian home where a local host welcomes you with a warm smile and a spread of traditional dishes passed down through generations. With Cesarine’s unique selection of cooking classes, food tours, and home dining experiences, you can do just that. This is your invitation to see (and taste) Italy in a way most travelers never do—by heading to smaller, lesser-known towns that still hold all the charm, history, and culinary excellence that Italy is famous for.
Take a Cooking Class in a Hidden Culinary Haven
Cooking classes are a fantastic way to connect with local culture, and Cesarine makes it possible in some of Italy’s most underrated spots. Why fight for a table in Florence when you can learn to make handmade pasta in Barberino Tavernelle? Or discover the secrets of fresh seafood dishes in Riccò del Golfo, a charming village near La Spezia? Over in Baveno, on the picturesque Piedmontese side of Lake Maggiore, you can roll up your sleeves and master the art of regional delicacies—all while enjoying a tranquil lakeside atmosphere away from the tourist-packed Amalfi Coast.
Savor Local Wines and Markets Like a True Italian
Ever wondered where the locals actually shop? Join a food and wine tour led by an expert and immerse yourself in Italy’s culinary soul. Instead of waiting in long lines at a crowded Florence wine bar, head to Langhirano near Parma, where you can sip on exquisite regional wines paired with melt-in-your-mouth Parmigiano Reggiano. Or wander through the markets of Spoleto in the province of Perugia, where local farmers proudly showcase their freshest produce and artisanal specialties. Every bite, every sip, and every interaction is a piece of Italy’s living history.
Experience a Home-Cooked Italian Feast
Let’s face it: the best Italian meals are the ones cooked at home. Cesarine allows you to step into an Italian kitchen and enjoy an authentic meal prepared by locals who treat cooking as both an art and a legacy. Imagine savoring a seasonal feast in the scenic hills of Bologna’s Varignana, or indulging in a rustic Tuscan dinner in Buti, a charming town in the province of Pisa. And if you’re dreaming of sun-soaked Sicilian flavors, a home-cooked meal in Marsala—famous for its namesake wine—is the perfect way to cap off your adventure.
Travel Smarter, Travel More Sustainably
Not only does swapping overcrowded cities for lesser-known towns enhance your experience, but it also plays a role in sustainable tourism. Italy’s most visited cities are struggling to maintain a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the quality of life for residents. Overtourism has led to increased costs, environmental strain, and even restrictions like entrance fees and tourist caps. By choosing alternative destinations, you help distribute tourism more evenly, easing the burden on overrun hotspots while directly supporting local communities.
Cesarine’s interactive map makes it easy to plan a trip that weaves together different experiences across various regions, creating an itinerary that’s as unique as it is enriching. Whether you’re interested in the rustic charm of the Italian countryside, the seaside flavors of the Mediterranean, or the hearty traditions of the north, there’s a hidden gem waiting for you.
The Real Italy Is Off the Beaten Path
There’s a reason why Italians themselves often retreat to these quieter towns when they vacation. They know that true Italian magic isn’t just found in Rome’s Colosseum or Venice’s Grand Canal—it’s in the little moments. The scent of fresh herbs in a grandmother’s kitchen, the first sip of a robust red wine in a vineyard at sunset, the laughter shared over a long dinner at a family table.
So, if you’re planning your next Italian escape, think beyond the predictable. Let the influencers and day-trippers have their overcrowded landmarks—you, on the other hand, have a ticket to an experience that’s more personal, more flavorful, and undeniably more Italian.
Buon viaggio, and buon appetito!
Photo credits: Pinterest & Cesarine
