Escape the crowds and explore these secluded Italian Retreats
The Amalfi Coast is breathtaking, but you already know it’s not the only slice of Italy worth visiting. You’re someone who prefers the quiet moments, the ones that make a destination feel like it’s truly yours. Italy is full of peaceful, hidden retreats, waiting for you to explore at your own pace, without the crowds.
Let’s take a step back from the typical tourist routes and discover five Italian escapes where you can truly embrace the slow travel lifestyle.
1. Polignano a Mare (Puglia)
Polignano a Mare is the perfect place for you to unwind, with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. This small town in Puglia is just as stunning as the Amalfi Coast, but without the overwhelming crowds. You’ll love wandering the narrow streets, enjoying fresh seafood at a cozy trattoria, and feeling the calming rhythm of the sea. It’s a slower pace, where you can savor every moment, far from the bustle of mainstream tourism.
2. Camogli (Liguria)
Imagine yourself walking through a peaceful village, the salty air of the Ligurian coast brushing past you, as you take in the colorful buildings and quiet waterfront. Camogli offers the kind of authenticity you’re craving. Here, you won’t find luxury resorts or crowded attractions—just the charm of a fishing village where time seems to slow down. It’s your perfect escape to recharge, without the distractions of more tourist-heavy areas.
3. Matera (Basilicata)
Matera’s ancient cave dwellings and UNESCO-listed landscape offer something truly special. You can wander the stone streets, visit cave churches, and simply lose yourself in the history of this place. Matera feels untouched, almost like stepping back in time. It’s the kind of quiet, soulful destination where you can feel the weight of history and find peace amidst it all.
4. Lago di Como (Lake Como)
While towns like Como and Bellagio might be on every tourist’s list, you’ll find that there are plenty of quiet spots around the lake that are perfect for slower travel. Consider visiting Lenno, a small town on the western shore, where you can enjoy peaceful lakeside strolls, visit Villa del Balbianello, and spend your days away from the crowds. It’s the kind of place where you can pause and truly appreciate the beauty of Lake Como.
5. Aeolian Islands (Sicily)
If you want something more remote, the Aeolian Islands offer volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere. You can hike to volcanic craters, take a quiet boat ride, or enjoy an afternoon on a secluded beach. The islands are less touristy than other coastal areas in Italy, giving you the perfect space to relax and enjoy Italy at its most authentic.
Italy is so much more than the Amalfi Coast. If you're craving a slower, more peaceful Italian getaway, these secluded spots are the perfect places to unwind and immerse yourself in authentic local life. Each of these destinations offers a sense of serenity, making them the perfect places for your next mindful escape.
