Italy is filled with familiar icons such as the Colosseum, the canals of Venice, and rolling vineyards. But beyond those classics lies a side of the country that most travelers never see. From ghost towns to surreal festivals, there are experiences that rarely make it into standard trip plans. Let’s explore seven adventures that reveal a whole new side of Italy.
Hike to the Ghost Town of Craco
Before setting off, consider picking up an Italy tourist eSIM to stay connected in areas where traditional coverage can dip. Craco sits abandoned on a hilltop in the Basilicata region, crumbling under years of landslides and neglect. Its empty homes and silent streets feel frozen in time, untouched by mass tourism. With proper walking shoes and a guide, the site offers haunting beauty that few places match.
Locals in nearby towns still speak of Craco’s rich past, from medieval times to its complete evacuation in the 20th century. The contrast between its once-vibrant life and current silence makes every step through it feel surreal. Craco isn’t marked in glossy brochures, but it tells a raw and forgotten story.
Stay in a Trullo in Alberobello
Trulli are cone-roofed limestone homes found mostly in Puglia. These UNESCO-listed buildings may look like fairy-tale huts, but many are still used as houses, guest stays, or wine bars. Before you travel to Alberobello, having an Italy tourist esim can help you maintain communications and tour more laid-back villages of the province.
Alberobello is where most visitors start, though nearby towns like Locorotondo offer quieter alternatives. Some hosts offer homemade breakfasts with local cheese and jam, which completes the experience. Unlike standard hotels, trulli blend history and comfort without flashy details.
Experience the Monster Park in Bomarzo.
Bomarzo’s “Parco dei Mostri” is like something out of a dream or fantasy backdrop. Giant stone creatures, strange sculptures, and poetic carvings fill this Renaissance-era garden. Commissioned in the 16th century by a grieving nobleman, it’s part art installation, part personal diary.
The creatures aren’t cute or friendly. They’re distorted, surreal, and sometimes eerie. One sculpture has a gaping mouth that forms the entrance to a cavernous room. Children often run through the park with wide eyes, while adults pause to decode the symbols hidden across the grounds.
Explore the Abandoned Villas on Lake Como
Lake Como is known for polished villas and elegant cafes, but deeper exploration reveals a quieter side. Several abandoned villas lie along its shores, slowly being reclaimed by nature. While many are private or fenced off, guided boat tours offer glimpses from the water.
One striking villa is Pliniana, often whispered about by locals due to its ghost stories. Nature has intertwined with the architecture, creating an odd mix of beauty and decay. Photographers and historians are drawn to these sites more than sun-seekers. The contrast between luxury and loss is quietly captivating.
Go to Ivrea for the Battle of the Oranges
If you’re looking for something unforgettable, visit Ivrea during February’s Battle of the Oranges. This historical food fight sees thousands take to the streets to pelt each other with oranges. It commemorates a medieval uprising, with locals split into nine teams representing the rebellion.
Here’s what to expect:
- Massive crowds in colorful costumes
- Orange-filled carts led by horses
- Music, parades, and fireworks at night
- Streets are layered in a pulpy, citrus-scented mess
Visitors are welcome, though standing behind the safety nets is advised unless you’re ready to be hit.
Discover the Painted Village of Dozza
Dozza is a medieval village outside Bologna, known not for ruins but for murals. Artists from around the world are invited every two years to paint on the town’s walls. The result is an open-air gallery where every corner surprises with color and story. Some pieces are modern, while others honor local legends or daily life.
Walking through Dozza doesn’t feel like visiting a museum. The art blends naturally with cobbled streets and tiled roofs. It’s a place where creativity lives in the bricks, not behind velvet ropes.
Step into the Albanian Traditions of Piana degli Albanesi
Hidden in Sicily’s hills is a town that proudly preserves its Albanian roots. Piana degli Albanesi was founded by refugees fleeing the Ottoman Empire over 500 years ago. Orthodox Easter here includes gold-threaded robes, ancient songs, and homemade pastries.
Locals speak Arbëresh, a variant of Albanian, and maintain customs not found elsewhere in Italy. Street signs appear in both Italian and Arbëresh, and festivals often involve folk dances that haven’t changed in centuries.
Exploring Italy beyond the brochure brings a fresh kind of excitement, one that combines mystery, authenticity, and stories waiting to be told. With an Italy tourist esim, you can access maps, local advice, and language resources are available without the need for actual SIM cards or inconsistent Wi-Fi. From ancient ruins to citrus battles, these lesser-known spots offer a different perspective on a classic destination. There’s always more to discover when you step off the usual path.
