Hello, I’m Sondra!
Solo Female Traveler. Part-time Model. Your Internet Bestie.
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How to Move to Italy as an American: The Complete Beginner’s Guide (From Someone Actually Doing It)
There comes a point in every Italy lover’s life when a vacation no longer feels like enough.
Maybe it happens while sipping wine in a Tuscan piazza.
Maybe it’s after your third trip.
Maybe it’s when you’re scrolling apartment listings in Florence at 2:00 a.m. instead of sleeping.
For me, it happened when I realized I didn’t just want to visit Italy.
I wanted to live there.
If you’ve found yourself daydreaming about morning cappuccinos, weekend train trips, and building a life abroad, you’re not alone. Thousands of Americans move to Italy every year, but figuring out how to do it legally can feel overwhelming.
The good news?
It’s absolutely possible.
The less-good news?
Italy loves paperwork almost as much as it loves pasta.
Here’s everything I wish I’d known before starting the process.
Can Americans Move to Italy?
Yes.
Americans can legally move to Italy, but unlike vacation travel, you’ll need the appropriate visa and residency permit if you plan to stay longer than 90 days. (Schengen Zone allows 90 days every 180 days for US Passport holders).
The biggest mistake many people make is assuming they can simply arrive and “figure it out later.”
Italy doesn’t work that way.
Your visa pathway determines nearly everything that follows.
Step 1: Figure Out Which Visa Fits Your Situation
This is the most important decision you’ll make.
Student Visa
This is the route I chose initially.
If you’re enrolled in an accredited Italian language school or university program, a student visa can allow you to live in Italy for the duration of your studies.
This option is popular because:
- Italian language schools are relatively affordable
- You get an immersive language-learning experience
- It provides a legal pathway to stay longer than 90 days
If you’ve ever wanted an excuse to spend a year in Florence learning Italian, this might be it. Specifically, I went through the Los Angeles consulate and you need to be able to prove you have a Level B1 proficiency in Italian in order to be able to get this visa – it is only allowed for B1 and above studies in the Italian language.
You could also choose an Italian university program to do this, most universities offer undergrad and Masters programs much cheaper than the US (and in complete English) and will get you a student visa, as well.
Student visa was a preference for me, because you can legally work up to 20 hours per week with one.
Digital Nomad Visa
Italy officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa program in 2024 for qualified remote workers. Applicants generally need to work remotely for non-Italian employers or clients and meet professional qualification and income requirements. (Italian Consulate in New York)
This can be a great option if:
- You work remotely
- You’re self-employed or freelance
- Your clients are outside Italy
- You meet the qualification requirements
Elective Residence Visa
This visa is designed for retirees and financially independent individuals.
Important note:
You cannot work on this visa.
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient passive income and financial resources to support themselves while living in Italy.
Italian Citizenship by Descent
If you have Italian ancestry, investigate citizenship by descent before pursuing a visa.
For some Americans, this can be the most straightforward path to living in Italy long-term. Requirements have evolved in recent years, so always verify current eligibility rules before beginning the process.
Step 2: Understand the Financial Reality
Let’s talk numbers.
One of the biggest myths about moving to Italy is that it’s impossibly expensive.
The truth?
It depends where you live.
Generally More Affordable:
- Puglia
- Calabria
- Sicily
- Abruzzo
- Smaller towns throughout Tuscany and Umbria
Generally More Expensive:
- Milan
- Florence city center
- Rome city center
- Venice
Your budget will go much further outside the major tourist centers.
One reason I love recommending southern Italy is that many travelers discover they can enjoy a higher quality of life for less money.
Step 3: Start Learning Italian Before You Arrive
Could you survive without speaking Italian?
Probably.
Should you?
Definitely not.
Learning even basic Italian will help with:
- Renting apartments
- Opening bank accounts
- Grocery shopping
- Making friends
- Navigating bureaucracy
More importantly, it transforms your experience from “tourist” to “participant.”
Trust me on this one.
Future You will be grateful.
Step 4: Prepare for Bureaucracy
I say this with love.
Italy is wonderful.
Italian bureaucracy is…an adventure.
You will likely need:
- Passport copies
- Birth certificates
- Financial documents
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance documentation
- Passport photos
And then you may need copies of all of those documents again.
My advice?
Create both digital and physical folders before you leave.
Organization becomes your superpower.
Step 5: Find Housing Carefully
Many Americans assume they’ll immediately find the perfect apartment online.
Reality is often messier.
Common options include:
- Short-term rentals while apartment hunting
- Student housing
- Shared apartments
- Long-term leases
Before signing anything:
- Research neighborhoods
- Understand lease terms
- Verify transportation access
- Consider grocery stores and daily conveniences
One lesson I learned quickly: living in Italy and vacationing in Italy are two very different experiences.
Step 6: Understand the Residency Process
Getting your visa is usually just the beginning.
After arriving in Italy, most long-term visa holders must complete additional residency procedures and apply for a residence permit. Requirements vary by visa category and location. (Italian Consulate in New York)
This is where patience becomes important.
Things rarely move as quickly as Americans expect.
And that’s okay.
Things Nobody Tells You About Moving to Italy
Life Isn’t a Permanent Vacation
You’ll still:
- Pay bills
- Do laundry
- Go grocery shopping
- Wait in lines
- Get frustrated occasionally
The magic isn’t that life becomes perfect.
The magic is that daily life feels different.
Regional Differences Matter
Italy isn’t one culture.
It’s many cultures.
Life in Sicily feels different from life in Milan.
Florence feels different from Naples.
Puglia feels different from Venice.
Visit several regions before deciding where to settle.
Trains Will Become Your Best Friend
One of my favorite parts of living in Italy is how easy it is to explore the country without a car.
Weekend adventures become incredibly accessible.
Resources That Helped Me
Official Resources
- Italian Consulate serving your U.S. region
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Local Questura (police headquarters)
- Local Comune (municipality office)
Always verify visa requirements using official government sources because immigration rules can change.
Real Talk:
Moving to Italy won’t solve all your problems.
It won’t magically make life easier.
But it can make life richer.
You’ll learn a new language.
You’ll experience a different culture.
You’ll challenge yourself in ways you never expected.
And you’ll probably discover that the life you’ve been dreaming about is both more complicated—and more rewarding—than you imagined.
For me, moving to Italy wasn’t about escaping my old life.
It was about building a new one.
And despite the paperwork, the bureaucracy, and the occasional train strike, I’d do it all over again.
Because some adventures are worth the leap.
And moving to Italy is definitely one of them.
See you soon, maybe?
Tanti Baci! XO
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Why Puglia Is Italy’s Most Underrated Region (And Why It Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List)
Whitewashed villages. Crystal-clear water. Incredible food. Ancient olive groves. Lower prices. Fewer crowds.
So why isn’t everyone talking about Puglia?
After moving to Italy, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the country’s most famous destinations. I’ve wandered through Florence’s Renaissance streets, watched sunsets over the Tuscan countryside, and admired the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast.
But if there’s one region that continues to surprise me—and one I find myself recommending over and over again—it’s Puglia.
I first visited on a Press Trip in 2023 (yes, it was a dream come true) and was hosted by the Puglia Tourism Board and got 7 days of different cities, celebrations, and scenic views.
Located in the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia offers many of the things travelers love about Italy without the overwhelming crowds, inflated prices, and tourist-packed attractions that have become common in some of the country’s more famous regions.
If you’re dreaming of authentic Italian experiences, stunning coastal towns, unforgettable food, and a slower pace of life, here’s why Puglia deserves a spot at the very top of your Italy itinerary.
Where Is Puglia?
Puglia sits in southeastern Italy, stretching along both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
The region includes:
- Bari
- Lecce
- Alberobello
- Ostuni
- Monopoli
- Polignano a Mare
- Gallipoli
- Otranto
Unlike many first-time visitors who focus exclusively on Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast, travelers who venture south are rewarded with a side of Italy that feels refreshingly authentic.
And honestly? That’s exactly what makes Puglia special.
The Crowds Are Smaller (For Now)
Let’s start with one of the biggest advantages.
While destinations like Florence, Venice, and Positano can feel overwhelmed during peak travel seasons, many parts of Puglia still retain a more local atmosphere.
You’ll still encounter visitors—especially during summer—but you’ll often find yourself sharing piazzas, beaches, and restaurants with Italians rather than massive tour groups.
One of my favorite travel experiences is wandering through a town and feeling like I’ve discovered something for myself.
Puglia delivers that feeling again and again.
The Food Is Some of the Best in Italy
As someone who believes food is one of the best reasons to travel, Puglia immediately won me over.
The cuisine here is simple, fresh, and deeply connected to the land and sea.
Unlike northern regions that rely heavily on butter and rich sauces, Pugliese cooking celebrates olive oil, vegetables, seafood, legumes, and handmade pasta.
Must-Try Foods in Puglia
Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa
Puglia’s most famous pasta dish.
The ear-shaped pasta is typically served with bitter broccoli rabe, garlic, olive oil, and anchovies.
It sounds simple.
It is simple.
And it’s absolutely delicious.
Burrata
If you’ve only had burrata outside Italy, prepare yourself.
Puglia is the birthplace of this creamy cheese, and tasting it here is a completely different experience.
Focaccia Barese
Bari’s iconic focaccia combines tomatoes, olives, olive oil, and a perfectly crisp crust.
It’s one of my favorite street foods in Italy.
Panzerotti
Think of it as a fried pocket of happiness filled with mozzarella and tomato.
You’re welcome.
Related Reading:
Be sure to check out A Food Lover’s Guide to Italy: The Regional Dishes You Need to Try From North to South for more culinary inspiration.
The Beaches Rival the Caribbean
Many travelers don’t realize that Italy has some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.
And many of those beaches are in Puglia.
The water is often crystal clear, ranging from turquoise to deep sapphire blue depending on the location.
Best Beach Destinations in Puglia
Polignano a Mare
One of the region’s most iconic coastal towns.
Its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise water have become famous for good reason.
Torre dell’Orso
Known for soft sand and stunning water.
Pescoluse
Often called the “Maldives of Salento.”
Punta Prosciutto
A hidden gem with crystal-clear water and fewer crowds than many famous beach destinations.
The Towns Feel Like Postcards
One thing I love about Puglia is how distinct each town feels.
Alberobello
Famous for its whimsical trulli houses, Alberobello looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
It’s one of the most unique places in Italy.
Ostuni
Known as “The White City,” Ostuni sits atop a hill overlooking endless olive groves.
Wandering its narrow streets at sunset feels magical.
Monopoli
A charming seaside town with colorful fishing boats, excellent restaurants, and beautiful historic streets.
Lecce
Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce combines stunning Baroque architecture with a laid-back atmosphere.
If I had to choose one city in Puglia for a first visit, Lecce would be near the top of my list. Please get one of the only cold coffees that you’ll find, a Caffe Leccese (almond syrup and espresso over ice) while you’re there.
Puglia Is Surprisingly Affordable
Compared to some of Italy’s most famous destinations, Puglia can offer excellent value.
You’ll often find:
- Lower hotel prices
- More affordable dining
- Better value vacation rentals
- Less expensive beach clubs
That doesn’t mean it’s cheap.
But your travel budget often stretches further here than it would in places like Venice, Florence, or the Amalfi Coast.
Olive Trees Older Than Some Countries
Puglia produces roughly half of Italy’s olive oil.
As you travel through the countryside, you’ll pass millions of olive trees—many hundreds or even thousands of years old.
The landscape itself feels ancient.
And there’s something incredibly special about tasting olive oil made from trees that have been standing for centuries.
It’s Perfect for Slow Travel
If you’ve read my post about What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Italy Solo, you’ll know that one of the biggest lessons Italy taught me is to slow down.
Puglia embraces that philosophy beautifully.
This isn’t a region where you rush from attraction to attraction.
It’s a place for:
- Long lunches
- Evening passeggiatas
- Lazy beach days
- Wandering without an itinerary
- Watching sunsets over a glass of local wine
And honestly, that’s one of the reasons I love it.
When to Visit Puglia
Spring (April–June)
My favorite time to visit.
Expect pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.
Fall (September–October)
Another excellent option with warm weather and fewer tourists.
Summer (July–August)
Beautiful but busy.
Expect high temperatures and larger crowds, especially in coastal towns.
Is Puglia Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
In a country filled with world-famous destinations, Puglia offers something increasingly rare: authenticity.
You’ll find incredible food, stunning beaches, fascinating history, welcoming locals, and unforgettable scenery—all without feeling like you’re standing in line for the “Italian experience.”
Will Puglia stay underrated forever?
Probably not.
Word is getting out.
Which is exactly why you should visit now.
More Italy Travel Inspiration from Curves and a Carry-On
Planning your dream Italian adventure? Read these next:
- What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Italy Solo
- 15 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Visit in Italy
- An Italy Food Bucket List
- The Ultimate Solo Female Guide to Florence
- Best Tuscany Day Trips for Food and Wine Lovers
- How to Move to Italy as an American
Because sometimes the best places are the ones hiding in plain sight.
Tanti Baci! XO
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A Food Lover’s Guide to Italy: The Regional Dishes You Need to Try From North to South
One of the biggest surprises after moving to Italy was realizing there is no such thing as “Italian food.”
At least not in the way many Americans imagine it.
What we often think of as Italian cuisine is actually dozens of distinct regional food traditions shaped by geography, history, climate, and local ingredients. A dish that’s common in Sicily might be completely unknown in Venice. A pasta you’ll find on every menu in Rome might never appear in Tuscany.
The truth is that Italy isn’t one culinary destination—it’s twenty.
If you’re planning a trip and want to eat your way across the country, this guide will introduce you to the iconic dishes, local specialties, and unforgettable flavors that make every region unique.
So loosen your belt and bring your appetite. We’re about to take a delicious journey across Italy.
Why Regional Food Matters in Italy
One of the first things you’ll notice in Italy is that locals are incredibly proud of their regional cuisine.
Ask someone from Bologna where to find the best ragù, and prepare for a passionate answer.
Mention pineapple pizza in Naples, and prepare for a different kind of passion.
Food here isn’t just nourishment—it’s culture, identity, family history, and local pride all rolled into one.
The best meals you’ll have in Italy often aren’t the famous ones. They’re the dishes that have been made the same way for generations.
Northern Italy: Rich, Hearty, and Influenced by the Alps
Northern Italian cuisine tends to feature butter, cheese, rice, and meat rather than olive oil and tomatoes.
Piedmont
The region famous for truffles and wine.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Vitello Tonnato (cold sliced veal with tuna sauce)
- Agnolotti del Plin
- Bagna Cauda
- White Truffles of Alba
Lombardy
Home to Milan and some of Italy’s most comforting foods.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Risotto alla Milanese
- Ossobuco
- Cotoletta alla Milanese
Veneto
Venice may be famous for canals, but its food deserves equal attention.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Baccalà Mantecato
- Sarde in Saor
- Risotto al Nero di Seppia (squid ink risotto)
Emilia-Romagna
If Italy has a food capital, this might be it.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tagliatelle al Ragù
- Tortellini in Brodo
- Mortadella
- Parmigiano Reggiano
- Prosciutto di Parma
Many food lovers consider Emilia-Romagna the most delicious region in Italy, and honestly, I understand why.
Central Italy: Simplicity Done Perfectly
Central Italy is where you’ll find some of the country’s most iconic dishes.
Tuscany
Tuscan cuisine celebrates simple ingredients and bold flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina
- Ribollita
- Pappa al Pomodoro
- Pici Cacio e Pepe
- Wild Boar Ragù
One thing I love about Tuscany is how rustic the food feels. Nothing is overly complicated, but everything tastes incredible.
Umbria
Often called Tuscany’s quieter neighbor.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Strangozzi Pasta
- Black Truffles
- Porchetta
- Lentil Dishes from Castelluccio
Lazio (Rome)
Rome alone is worth a food pilgrimage.
The Four Roman Pasta Classics:
- Cacio e Pepe
- Carbonara
- Amatriciana
- Gricia
Important note: authentic Carbonara contains eggs, pecorino, guanciale, and black pepper—no cream.
Marche
One of Italy’s most underrated culinary regions.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Olive all’Ascolana
- Vincisgrassi
- Brodetto Fish Stew
Southern Italy: Bold Flavors and Mediterranean Influences
As you travel south, olive oil, tomatoes, seafood, and fresh vegetables become more prominent.
Campania
Home to Naples and arguably Italy’s most famous food.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Neapolitan Pizza
- Mozzarella di Bufala
- Pasta e Patate
- Sfogliatella
If you’re visiting Naples, pizza isn’t optional.
It’s practically a civic duty.
Puglia
One of my favorite regions for food lovers.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa
- Focaccia Barese
- Burrata
- Panzerotti
Puglia feels like Italy’s pantry—olive oil, fresh vegetables, seafood, and simple ingredients shine here.
Basilicata
Small but packed with flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Peperoni Cruschi
- Lagane e Ceci
- Lucanica Sausage
Calabria
Spicy, bold, and often overlooked.
Must-Try Dishes:
- ‘Nduja
- Fileja Pasta
- Swordfish Dishes
If you enjoy spicy food, Calabria might become your favorite region.
Sicily: A Culinary World of Its Own
Sicily’s food reflects centuries of Greek, Arab, Spanish, and Norman influence.
It’s unlike anywhere else in Italy.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Arancini
- Pasta alla Norma
- Cannoli
- Granita
- Caponata
- Cassata
Some of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Italy have been in Sicily.
The flavors are vibrant, complex, and completely unique.
Sardinia: Italy’s Hidden Culinary Gem
Sardinia feels like another country entirely.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Porceddu (roast suckling pig)
- Culurgiones
- Pane Carasau
- Seadas
Many Sardinian recipes have remained unchanged for centuries.
The Ultimate Italy Food Bucket List
If you’re only visiting once, here’s my personal Italy food bucket list:
✓ Eat Carbonara in Rome
✓ Try Bistecca alla Fiorentina in Florence
✓ Taste Parmigiano Reggiano at its source in Emilia-Romagna
✓ Eat Pizza in Naples
✓ Try fresh Burrata in Puglia
✓ Enjoy Arancini in Sicily
✓ Hunt for truffles in Piedmont or Umbria
✓ Visit a winery in Tuscany
✓ Experience Aperitivo in Milan
✓ Have gelato every single day
(No, I will not be taking questions on that last recommendation.)
Food Tips I Wish I Knew Before Moving to Italy
Don’t Order Alfredo
You won’t find it.
At least not in the way Americans expect.
Regional Dishes Matter
Order what the region does best.
That’s where the magic happens.
Lunch and Dinner Times Are Different
Many restaurants don’t serve dinner before 7:00 PM.
Don’t Rush
Meals are meant to be enjoyed.
Slow down.
Stay awhile.
Order dessert.
Enjoy It All
Moving to Italy taught me that food isn’t just one of the best parts of travel—it is the travel experience.
Some of my favorite memories aren’t tied to famous landmarks or bucket-list attractions.
They’re tied to a bowl of pasta in a tiny trattoria.
A winery tucked into the Tuscan hills.
A grandmother rolling fresh pasta by hand.
A perfectly crispy arancino eaten while wandering Sicilian streets.
Italy rewards curious eaters.
So skip the tourist menus, try the regional specialties, and let your appetite guide your itinerary.
Trust me—you’ll never look at “Italian food” the same way again.
Continue Exploring Italy with Curves and a Carry-On
Ready to plan your culinary adventure?
Next, check out:
- What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Italy Solo
- 15 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Visit in Italy
- Why Puglia Is Italy’s Most Underrated Region
- The Ultimate Solo Female Guide to Florence
- How to Move to Italy as an American
- An Italian Food Bucket List
Because the best way to see Italy is one bite at a time.
Tanti Baci! XO
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Banking in Europe Without Citizenship: How to Manage Your Money Abroad
Moving abroad is exciting, but figuring out how to handle your money can feel overwhelming – especially if you’re relocating to Europe without citizenship. Whether you’re studying abroad, teaching English, working remotely, or traveling long-term, you’ll need a reliable way to receive money, pay bills, and avoid expensive international banking fees.
After moving to Europe, I quickly learned that having access to a flexible international banking solution makes life much easier. One of the best tools I’ve found is Wise.
Can You Open a Bank Account in Europe Without Citizenship?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on the country and your residency status.
Many European banks allow non-citizens to open accounts if they can provide:
- A passport
- Proof of address
- A visa or residence permit
- Tax identification number (in some countries)
However, traditional banks often require appointments, paperwork, language skills, and sometimes proof of local employment.
For new arrivals, digital banking solutions can be a much easier option.
Why I Recommend Wise for Expats, Students, and Travelers
Wise is an international financial platform designed for people who live, work, study, or travel abroad.
Instead of paying high exchange rates and hidden fees through traditional banks, Wise allows you to send, receive, and hold money in multiple currencies at competitive exchange rates.
Benefits of Using Wise
Receive Money Like a Local
One of my favorite features is that Wise provides local bank details in multiple currencies, including a European IBAN.
This means you can:
- Receive euros directly into your account
- Get paid by employers or clients
- Receive transfers from friends and family
- Pay European bills more easily
Hold Multiple Currencies
Wise allows you to hold and manage dozens of currencies in a single account.
This is especially useful if you:
- Earn money in U.S. dollars
- Spend money in euros
- Travel between multiple countries
Wise Debit Card
Wise also offers a virtual debit card that can be used around the world from your Apple or Android wallet.
The card automatically uses the currency available in your account and converts funds when necessary, helping you avoid many of the foreign transaction fees charged by traditional banks. There are some people who also have a physical debit card, too.
I’ve found it incredibly convenient for:
- Grocery shopping
- Restaurants
- Public transportation
- Online purchases
Transfer Money Internationally
Need to move money from your U.S. bank account to Europe?
Wise makes international transfers simple and often significantly cheaper than traditional bank wire transfers.
Many expats use Wise to:
- Transfer savings abroad
- Pay rent
- Receive freelance income
- Send money between personal accounts
My Wise Referral Link
If you’re planning to move abroad, travel long-term, or study in Europe, Wise is one of the first financial tools I recommend. I also get a small referral incentive if you use my link below (and I appreciate it)!
As of this writing, new users who join through my referral link may receive a Free Transfer bonus (transfer up to $600 fee-free) after meeting Wise’s referral requirements. Be sure to review the current terms and conditions, as promotions can change over time.
Is Wise Better Than a Traditional European Bank?
For many new arrivals, Wise works best as a bridge solution while getting settled.
A traditional European bank may still be useful for:
- Local loans or mortgages
- Certain government services
- Specialized financial products
However, Wise is often the easiest way to:
- Receive international payments
- Get an IBAN
- Hold multiple currencies
- Access a debit card abroad
- Transfer money internationally
Bottom Line…
Banking abroad doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re moving to Italy, studying in France, teaching English in Spain, or slow-traveling through Europe, having a flexible international banking solution can save you time, money, and stress.
For me, Wise has been one of the most useful financial tools for living abroad. The ability to receive money through a European IBAN, transfer funds internationally, and use a debit card across multiple countries has made managing my finances in Europe much simpler.
If you’re preparing for your own international adventure, it’s worth setting up before you leave home.
Ready to get started?
Tanti Baci! XO
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15 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Visit in Italy (That Most Tourists Miss)
After moving to Italy, I quickly discovered that the country’s greatest treasures aren’t always the places splashed across Instagram feeds. While millions of visitors crowd the Colosseum and Venice’s canals every year, some of Italy’s most magical destinations remain surprisingly overlooked.
If you’re looking for authentic experiences, fewer crowds, incredible food, and the chance to see a side of Italy many travelers never discover, these hidden gems deserve a spot on your itinerary.
And if you’re planning your first solo adventure, be sure to read my post on What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Italy Solo before you go.
1. Lucca, Tuscany
Everyone heads to Florence.
Meanwhile, Lucca quietly charms visitors with its Renaissance walls, peaceful piazzas, and bike-friendly streets.
Unlike Florence, Lucca feels relaxed and local. You can rent a bicycle and ride along the historic city walls while enjoying views of church towers and terracotta rooftops.
Don’t Miss:
- Piazza dell’Anfiteatro
- Guinigi Tower
- Cycling the city walls
Related Reading: The Ultimate Solo Female Guide to Florence, Italy
2. Pitigliano, Tuscany
Built dramatically into volcanic cliffs, Pitigliano looks like something from a fantasy novel.
Known as “Little Jerusalem,” this medieval town offers stunning views, fascinating history, and far fewer crowds than Tuscany’s more famous hill towns.
Perfect For:
- History lovers
- Photographers
- Wine enthusiasts
Related Reading: The Best Tuscany Day Trips from Florence
3. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Food lovers, this one is for you.
While tourists flock to Florence for steak and Venice for seafood, Bologna quietly serves some of Italy’s best cuisine.
This is the birthplace of:
- Tagliatelle al ragù
- Mortadella
- Tortellini
The city also has one of Europe’s oldest universities and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Don’t Miss:
- Climbing the Asinelli Tower
- The Quadrilatero Market
- Endless aperitivo options
Related Reading: A Food Lover’s Guide to Italy
4. Matera, Basilicata
Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Its famous cave dwellings, known as Sassi, create one of the most unique landscapes you’ll find anywhere in Europe.
Walking through Matera feels like stepping into another century.
Why Visit:
- Incredible history
- Unique accommodations
- Stunning photography opportunities
5. Orvieto, Umbria
Often overshadowed by Tuscany, Umbria remains one of Italy’s most underrated regions.
Orvieto sits dramatically atop a volcanic plateau and offers:
- A magnificent Gothic cathedral
- Underground cave tours
- Excellent local wines
Bonus:
It’s an easy train ride from Rome.
Related Reading: Why Umbria Might Be Better Than Tuscany for Slow Travel
6. Trieste
Near the Slovenian border, Trieste feels different from anywhere else in Italy.
Its Austrian influences, coffee culture, and seaside setting create a fascinating blend of cultures.
Highlights:
- Miramare Castle
- Piazza Unità d’Italia
- Historic cafés
7. Bergamo
Most travelers fly into Milan and leave immediately.
Big mistake.
Bergamo’s medieval upper city offers cobblestone streets, beautiful views, and significantly fewer tourists.
Perfect For:
- Weekend trips
- History lovers
- Budget-conscious travelers
8. Parma
If your travel style revolves around food, Parma belongs on your list.
This region gave the world:
- Parmigiano Reggiano
- Prosciutto di Parma
Need I say more?
Best Experience:
Take a farm tour and see how these iconic foods are produced.
Related Reading: The Ultimate Italy Food Bucket List
9. Montepulciano, Tuscany
Many travelers choose San Gimignano.
I prefer Montepulciano.
The wine is incredible, the views are spectacular, and the atmosphere feels more authentic.
Don’t Miss:
- Vino Nobile tastings
- Sunset viewpoints
- Underground wine cellars
10. Lecce, Puglia
Often called “The Florence of the South,” Lecce offers stunning Baroque architecture without the overwhelming crowds.
It’s also one of the best bases for exploring Puglia.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Gorgeous historic center
- Amazing food
- Easy access to beaches
Related Reading: Why Puglia Is Italy’s Most Underrated Region
11. Ravenna
Art lovers should skip one day in Florence and spend it here instead.
Ravenna contains some of the most extraordinary Byzantine mosaics in the world.
Photos simply don’t do them justice.
Must See:
- Basilica di San Vitale
- Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
12. Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
This is the Tuscany from postcards.
Rolling hills.
Cypress trees.
Stone farmhouses.
Golden sunsets.
Yet surprisingly few travelers explore beyond quick photo stops.
Best Towns:
- Pienza
- Montalcino
- San Quirico d’Orcia
13. Procida
While Capri gets the fame and Positano gets the Instagram posts, Procida offers colorful charm without the crowds.
Perfect For:
- Solo travelers
- Slow travel
- Authentic island life
14. Cividale del Friuli
Located in northeastern Italy, this UNESCO-listed town remains almost completely unknown to international tourists.
Expect:
- Medieval architecture
- Incredible wine
- Local culture untouched by overtourism
15. Valle d’Aosta
Many visitors don’t realize Italy has spectacular Alpine landscapes that rival Switzerland.
Valle d’Aosta offers:
- Mountain villages
- Castles
- Hiking trails
- Incredible local cuisine
Best For:
Outdoor enthusiasts and road-trip lovers.
Why I Think Travelers Should Venture Beyond Italy’s Famous Cities
Don’t get me wrong.
Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan deserve their reputations.
But after moving to Italy, I’ve discovered that some of my most memorable experiences happened in places I’d never heard of before arriving.
The quiet piazza where I shared wine with locals.
The tiny hill town where I stumbled upon a festival.
The family-run restaurant where nobody spoke English and the meal changed my life.
Those moments rarely happen in the most famous destinations.
They’re waiting in the places between them.
So by all means, see the Colosseum.
Take the gondola ride.
Visit Florence.
But then get on a train and go somewhere unexpected.
That’s where you’ll find the Italy that stole my heart.
More Italy Travel Inspiration on Curves and a Carry-On
If you’re planning your own Italian adventure, check out these guides next:
- What I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Italy Solo
- The Ultimate Solo Female Guide to Florence
- A Food Lover’s Guide to Italy
- Why Puglia Is Italy’s Most Underrated Region
- The Best Tuscany Day Trips from Florence
- How to Move to Italy as an American
- The Ultimate Italy Food Bucket List
Save this post for your next Italy trip and start building an itinerary that goes beyond the guidebooks.
Tanti Baci, Babe! XO
About Me
Born in Portsmouth, Virginia and raised in San Diego, California. I have a passion for exploring the world and seeing all it has to offer. Cultural experiences have shaped me into a person who tries to leave the world feeling a little more love whenever I show up. Come with me, and let’s have the best adventure!
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