When we think of Italy, one of the most popular European destinations for Indian outbound travelers (or travelers from anywhere in the world), the iconic cities come to mind: Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice in Northern Italy. For repeat visitors, the Amalfi Coastline with Sorrento and Positano is often the next must-visit. However, over tourism has become a global concern and Italy is no exception. For those looking beyond the usual hotspots, offbeat Italy offers a refreshing alternative.
Last November, I had the privilege of attending a unique tourism event in one of Italy’s lesser-known regions: Le Marche. The towns of Pesaro and Urbino were the focus of this experience and I immediately confirmed my participation. The allure of exploring an offbeat destination, away from the usual tourist circuits, was irresistible.
Why Go Offbeat?
Offbeat travel offers several advantages:
Personalized Service: Smaller towns often provide impeccable hospitality with a personal touch.
Better Value for Money: Dining and shopping in touristy towns can cost 25%-30% more than in offbeat locations.
Authentic Experiences: Lesser-known towns are eager to welcome visitors and offer genuine cultural exchanges.
During my two-week journey, I combined self-driving with train travel to minimize my carbon footprint and ensure responsible travel. Here’s a glimpse into my offbeat Italian adventure.
Exploring Piedmont
After landing at Milan Malpensa Airport, I drove two hours to Piedmont, one of Italy’s fastest-growing regions. My first stop was Cremolino, where I spent a couple of nights amidst stunning landscapes of vineyards and truffle-rich forests. Truffle hunting, an experience unique to such regions, involved trained dogs uncovering these culinary treasures from the soil.
Next, I ventured to Barolo, famous for its world-renowned wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. I stayed at a family-run inn, offering exceptional hospitality, e-bikes for exploration and scenic walking trails through vineyards. The boutique hotel experience here, away from crowded tourist hubs, was both relaxing and luxurious.
From Liguria to Tuscany
Continuing my journey, I drove into Liguria, stopping briefly at Portofino. While Portofino’s summer crowds can be overwhelming, a November visit proved serene. Instead of staying there, I opted for Santa Margherita, a lesser-known town with similar Mediterranean charm. A leisurely lunch here set the stage for my drive to Tuscany.
The route from Piedmont to Tuscany offered breathtaking landscapes. In Tuscany, I discovered Montignoso, home to Il Bottaccio, a Relais & Châteaux property with just eight artistically designed rooms and suites. Located near Forte dei Marmi, this offbeat retreat allowed easy day trips to attractions like the Carrara marble quarries and Pietrasanta, an enchanting art town which also inspired as a marble source for Michelangelo.
Gems of Tuscany
From Montignoso, I traveled to Siena, a historic university town. On the way, I stumbled upon San Gimignano, often called the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” for its iconic towers. Here, I encountered a world-famous gelato shop, whose owner shared fascinating stories, including hosting dignitaries and celebrities. Another hidden gem was Volterra, a town as spectacular as San Gimignano but far less crowded.
Le Marche: Pesaro and Urbino
Arriving in Pesaro for the tourism workshop, I switched from driving to train travel, dropping my car in Bologna. The workshops showcased the region’s unique offerings, from affordable shopping to exceptional dining experiences. For instance, a Japanese restaurant in Pesaro offered an all-you-can-eat meal for just 12 Euros—a fraction of what it would cost in India.
Emilia-Romagna Highlights
After Pesaro, I explored Emilia-Romagna, starting with Modena and Maranello. A visit to the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory was unforgettable, as I learned about the intricate process of crafting this world-famous cheese. The Motor Valley in Maranello was another highlight, home to iconic car brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani. The Pagani Museum, showcasing custom-designed cars priced between 3 million to 30 million Euros, was a jaw-dropping experience for any car enthusiast.
Wrapping Up in Torino
My journey concluded in Torino, the home of Fiat and Italy’s oldest Egyptian museum. Despite freezing temperatures, Torino’s rich history and cultural landmarks left a lasting impression. The Egyptian Museum, with artifacts older than those in Cairo, was a major highlight.
Discovering a Different Italy – Offbeat Italy!
Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna and Le Marche offered a refreshing perspective on Italy, far from the crowded tourist spots. These regions combine authentic experiences, world-class cuisine and unparalleled hospitality. Whether it’s savoring the finest wines, exploring quaint towns, or marveling at artistic and automotive masterpieces, offbeat Italy promises an unforgettable journey.
For those who wish to experience Italy from a different perspective, offbeat Italy offers exceptional value for money, free from the overwhelming crowds and long queues of tourist hotspots. Indulge in world-class cuisine paired with the finest wines, marvel at the craftsmanship of the fanciest cars and savor the most exquisite cheeses. This is how you can rediscover Italy—uniquely and authentically—and say Namaste Italy with Namaste Tourism.
Here are some unique Italy itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist route:
Arts & Flavours – Northern Marche
Genuine Traditions – South of Le Marche
Cycling Tours – Le Marche