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In this article, we’ll discover the best hidden gems in Northern Italy. We’ll cover all the top cities and towns in the North of Italy to get you off the beaten path and away from tourists.

When people think of visiting Italy, it’s often the same cities that come to mind. Rome, Florence, Venice… but there are some many amazing cities in the North of Italy that are worth visiting.

Sure, Milan is a great city to explore, but we’re here to tell you that there are some many hidden gems in Northern Italy that are begging to be discovered. Places where the tourist crowds haven’t made it yet.

Some may be harder to get to, but they’re still worth the trek. Nestled in the mountains, or on the shores of the beautiful northern lakes of Italy, there are so many amazing towns to discover.

Thanks to our blogger friends, we’re going to share some of the best cities in Northern Italy with you.

From the shores of Lake Iseo to the majestic peaks of Champoluc, these lesser-known places to visit in Northern Italy offer a glimpse into the country’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Let’s get off the beaten path in Italy’s North. Go beyond the tourist trails as we explore the best-kept secrets of Northern Italy – from the medieval charm of Bergamo to the serene shores of Desenzano del Garda. Get ready to uncover the enchanting cities that make Northern Italy a destination worth exploring.

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here. We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

When is the best time to visit Northern Italy’s hidden gems

The truth is, the North of Italy doesn’t see as many tourists as the rest of the country. As most people fly into Rome for a few days and explore the typical tourist trail, many forgo the north of the country.

However, that doesn’t mean that the summer isn’t busy in Northern Italy, In fact, places like Lake Como will attract tons of tourists. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds, we recommend visiting in the shoulder season.

The spring, from April to early June and the fall, from September to October, are great times to visit the northern parts of Italy. The winter months, from November to February, are also great options for those who want to hit the slopes.

Visiting the Northern Italy cities in the spring

From April to early June, the springtime in the north of Italy is a great time to visit.

The weather begins to warm up and the landscapes begin to be more green. During this season, the scenery comes to life with blossoming flowers. Everything gets a little more green and lot more beautiful.

For those who love to spend time outdoors, the spring is a great time to visit the North of Italy. You can go hiking in the Alps, or get lost in the picturesque towns, villages and cities in north Italy.

It’s also when you can expect fewer crowds than the coming months. As we mentioned, the summers in Italy are always busy, no matter which part of the country you’re visiting. But during the spring in Northern Italy, you can see the top attractions without the crowds. This is much more enjoyable.

Places to visit in Northern Italy in the fall

For those who want to escape the crowds in the top cities in northern Italy in the fall, September to October is a great time to go.

The summer crowds will be gone, and the weather will still be pleasant enough. Expect mild temperatures and stunning autumn foliage in the countryside. And best of all, not too many people around to crowd the attractions.

What also makes the fall a great time to visit the best cities in northern Italy is the harvest season. If you’re a foodie, this is the best time to head to the area. You’ll be able to taste local specialties and enjoy some of the country’s top food and wine festivals.

The winter in the hidden gems in the north of Italy

For those who don’t mind bundling up, the winter is a great time to visit the cities in northern Italy. The crowds will be gone and visiting attractions will be a breeze, especially in the hidden gems in the north of Italy.

What makes the winter a special time to visit Italy’s northern cities is the festive holiday spirit. Find holiday markets where you can shop for local goodies. Head to a mountain retreat or even enjoy skiing in the Alps.

If you don’t want to spend too much time outdoors, it’s the perfect time to go to the museums and galleries while escaping the crowds.

Regardless of the season, consider exploring off-the-beaten-path places in northern Italy to escape the crowds. Rural areas, lesser-known towns, and countryside retreats often offer authentic experiences away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist hubs.

And if you want to discover other hidden gems in Italy, check out our full article here about other amazing places near Rome, Venice, Florence, or elsewhere in Italy.

The top 12 hidden gems in northern Italy

There’s a whole region in Italy that is seldom visited by tourists – the great north! Most head to see the highlights in Milan, and forget about some of the smaller, more beautiful places in the area.

Whether you’re looking to explore some of the towns around the lakes of Italy or head to the more mountainous areas, there’s something for everyone. Regardless of the season you choose to come here, the cities of northern Italy will not disappoint.

Here are some of the best towns in the north of Italy to help you get off the beaten path.

1. Lake Iseo, one of the best kept secrets in Northern Italy

Recommended by Michela from SheGoesTheDistance.com

Everyone knows of Lake Como, most know of Lake Garda but few know of this hidden gem in the northern Italy lakes region: Lake Iseo.

Imagine the same charm of small fishing villages and equally beautiful mountain landscapes, without having to share it with a bunch of tourists. This is what you’ll get on a visit to Lake Iseo.  

There are plenty of reasons why Lake Iseo should be a stop on your northern Italy itinerary.

Nestled in the Orobie Alps between Bergamo and Brescia, Lake Iseo is home to Europe’s largest lake island, Monte Isola. It’s worth a quick ferry ride from Sulzano to Peschiera Maragalia on the island to walk along the fishing village boardwalk.

If you’re in for spending a longer time on the island and for a little physical activity, don’t miss the hike up to the hilltop church. At Madonna della Ceriola Sanctuary, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views.

When you get back to the mainland in Sulzano, have a memorable aperitivo at Darsena21, where you’ll dine under the lights of a renovated fishing dock.

Other towns you can’t miss are traditional Lovere, popular Iseo and the relaxed area of Sarnico. If you find yourself renting a boat to get out on the water and explore, pass by the area of Baia di Bogn, where when confronted with the lakeside cliffs, you’ll be asking yourself if you’re in Italy of the Philippines.

Lake Iseo is an ideal day trip from Milan or Bergamo, only 30 minutes to one hour by car, but is also worth a few days’ exploration for those more interested in experiencing local life and slow travel. You can book a place in one of the many towns surrounding the lake.

2. Bergamo, one of Northern Italy’s hidden gems

Recommended by Gabi from UnderFlowerSky.com

Bergamo is a lovely uphill town, just 1 hour away from its famous neighbor – Milano. Although close to this major city, Bergamo is a non-touristy place in Italy.

The labyrinth of the cobblestone streets starts with the Venetian Walls and San Giacomo Gate.

To reach the Old City of Bergamo (Citta Alta), you can take a funicular or 15-minute walk from the train station. From the Venetian Walls scatter the stunning views of Bergamo, particularly during the sunset.

Piazza Vecchia or the main square creates a unique charm in the historical heart of this ancient town. Embraced by architectural marvels such as the Cathedral of Bergamo, you can also admire the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Bergamo is a fabulous place to immerse yourself in the culinary delicacies, which is very typical. Palenta in savory and sweet versions is a common example, like strangolapreti or gnocchi made of bread.

The Botanical Gardens of Bergamo offer the allure of floral fantasy and stunning views of Citta Alta. This small garden in a hidden alley is free of charge.

The medieval charm of Bergamo is a splendid reason to visit this Italian hidden gem where stunning views speak for themselves.

Autumn is particularly enjoyable in Bergamo because of the tree colors surrounding the Venetian Walls.

One day is enough to capture the beauty of Bergamo, perhaps as a day trip from Milano. Three days would be an ideal amount of time to absorb its marvels, visit the museums and other points of interest.

The best way to reach Bergamo is by train from Milano, which takes 1h.

3. Desenzano del Garda, one of the best places in Northern Italy

Recommended by Sarah from Slow-Travel.uk

Desenzano del Garda is one of the best kept secrets on the Italian lakes. While many visitors head to the northern lake towns or to Sirmione, Desenzano is just as beautiful but far quieter.

Set on the edge of the lake and centered around a medieval harbor, the town has no newly built hotels. Instead, it’s focused on the daily lives of the locals.

There is still plenty to do, beyond admiring the historic narrow streets, pebble beaches and mountain views. Near daily local markets, an archaeological museum, a small cathedral, plenty of cafes lining the streets and harbor, and walks in all directions, all under the open sunny skies, make this the ideal place for a traveler wanting to get to know a place properly. 

One of the most rewarding activities is to hire a small boat and head out into the misty blue serenity of the water itself, with incredible views over the towns and snow-capped mountains that line this vast lake.

Visitor numbers can increase in the peak summer months, but go in the shoulder seasons like April/May and September/October, and you can have the peaceful streets and beautiful views mostly to yourself.

Desenzano has one other huge advantage over the other lakeside towns, being quick and easy to reach by public transport, with direct trains from Milan and Verona, the two nearest airports.

This also makes it the ideal place to use as a base for day trips to cities such as Venice and Padua, or you can catch ferries to other towns around the lake.

It would be easy to stay for a week or more, enjoying the slow pace of life, the long lunches by the harbor and the excursions across the lake and beyond. 

4. Riva del Garda, a small town to discover in Italy off the beaten path

Recommended by Anna from BigWorldShortStories.com

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy located in the north very close to the Dolomites. While the southern part of Lake Garda is quite touristy, the northern part of the lake is lesser known and is a real hidden gem for kitesurfers, mountain bikers, and hikers.

Riva del Garda is the largest town in the northern parts of Lake Garda. It’s a local administrative center where people live and work. Riva has a beautiful waterfront promenade and a charming historic center filled with colorful buildings and cafes. Well worth visiting if you want to escape the crowds in Italy.

Close to the town square, at the waterfront you will find the medieval Rocca di Riva fortress which is one of the main attractions in Riva. If you’re traveling without a car, Riva is the best town to stay in Lake Garda.

Some of the best things to do in Riva include hiking with panoramic views over Lake Garda, various water sports, and mountain biking. If you have extra time you could explore neighboring towns such as Torbole, Limone, and Malcesine.

The best way to get to Riva is from the north. The closest train station is located in Rovereto. From there you can take a local bus B301. There are direct connections to Rovereto train station from Verona, Trento and Bolzano. 

Visit Revia and Lake Garda in late Spring and early Autumn. It will be warm enough for swimming in the lake, but not too hot for hiking and exploring its beautiful nature.

You should aim to stay at least 4 days to fully enjoy the surrounding nature. It’s the best way to enjoy this hidden gem in Italy.

5. Castell’Arquato, one of the best towns in North Italy

Recommended by Anita of AnitaBeyondTheSea.com

Looking for the perfect escape among Piacenza hills? Castell’Arquato is the answer!

This charming medieval town is considered one of the most beautiful in Emilia Romagna offering a captivating journey through time.

Like many others from the same period, Castell’Arquato has narrow cobbled streets, stone buildings, and last but not least, amazing panoramic views of the countryside. The same countryside that produces some of the most famous Italian wines like Barbera and Lambrusco.

Visiting Castell’Arquato is a must for history enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Wander through its well-preserved medieval streets lined with Medieval and Renaissance buildings, visit the imposing Visconti Castle, and explore the Romanesque churches adorned with intricate frescoes. The town’s rich history comes alive through its architecture and cultural heritage.

Nature enthusiasts will also find delight in Castell’Arquato, with its proximity to the picturesque Po Valley and the Apennine Mountains. Hiking trails, cycling routes, and vineyard tours offer opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

To reach Castell’Arquato, you can take a train to the nearby cities of Piacenza or Parma and then continue by bus or taxi. Alternatively, renting a car allows for greater flexibility in exploring the surrounding area.

The best time to visit Castell’Arquato is during late spring or early autumn when the weather is mild, and the countryside is in full bloom or adorned with vibrant autumn colors.

Plan to spend at least a day exploring the town and its surroundings. When creating your itinerary check out the nearby villages of Vigoleno, Grazzano Visconti, and Bobbio as well.

6. Lecco, a lesser-known town on the shores of Lake Como

Recommended by Gillian from JillOnJourney.com

Regardless of where you’ve been in the country, there’s something special about Italy’s hidden gem tucked at the foot of the Alps. Lecco is one of the most beautiful hidden gems at Lake Como. 

Located on the southeastern tip of Lake Como, in Lecco, you can experience the more authentic side of this popular lake, far calmer than its famous neighbors Bellagio and Varenna.

Lecco is where the Milanese spend their weekends to escape the busy city.

Here you can enjoy the Italian Dolce Vita with a Spritz by the fresh water. Besides, from Lecco, you can take beautiful boat trips across the lake, go hiking with incredible lake views, and have the best Italian food. 

You will fall in love with Lecco. And all of it for a fraction of the price that you’d pay in the famous Bellagio.

Moreover, the best thing about this side of Lake Como is the beaches. Lovely gravel beaches frame the crystal-clear lake inviting you to go swimming or read a book by the lakeside.

You can easily reach Lecco by train from Milan. There’s a direct connection which takes you to the lakeside town in around 45 minutes.

But the best way to explore Lecco and its surrounding landscape is if you’ve got a rental car. This way, you can easily reach the starting points for amazing hikes, and remote restaurants at the foot of the mountains.

You should stay at least 3-4 days to enjoy Lecco and its surroundings to the fullest. But the more time you’ve got, the better. This way, you can make sure to experience all the various facets of Lecco – the town itself, hiking in the mountains, boat trips and relaxing by the lake.

7. Cuneo, one of the best kept secrets in Nothern Italy

Recommended by Linda from Insieme-Piemonte.com

A real hidden gem in Italy is the small town of Cuneo in the Piedmont region. The town owes its name to its unique wedge-shaped geographical position between the Stura and Gesso rivers.

Surrounded by the majestic Maritime Alps, this authentic Italian town offers a perfect combination of culture, history and nature. It’s one of the best kept secrets in Italy

Cuneo’s center impresses with its approximately 8 kilometers of arcades, ideal for shopping and strolling through the beautiful passages of the city, protected from the weather. Surrounded by these historic arcades is as well the main square, Piazza Galimberti, with its many cafés, boutiques and bookstores.

Cuneo is also an excellent starting point for excursions into the surrounding mountains. A popular destination is the Sanctuary of Sant’Anna di Vinadio, considered the highest sanctuary in the Alps.

The village of Limone Piemonte, a well-known ski resort, hides 6 historic frontier forts along the French border. Other impressive forts, once part of a massive defensive line, can be found in the beautiful village of Vinadio and on many of the peaks around Cuneo.

Excursions into the Valle Gesso or Valle Stura will bring you to remote mountain villages where you can experience the local culture.

The best time to visit Cuneo is from spring to fall, when the weather is usually stable to explore both Cuneo and the surrounding nature.

It’s best to stay in Cueno for at least five days to fully enjoy all that this hidden gem of northern Italy has to offer. Luckily, there are plenty of great accommodations to set up camp in Cueno and explore around.

8. Champoluc, a ski town in northern Italy you need to visit

Recommended by Alex from AdventureToEveryCountry.com

One hidden gem in Italy is the small village of Champoluc, nestled high in the Alps. 

It’s surrounded by mountains making it a great place for skiing in winter and hiking in the summer. It isn’t as well known as some of the more popular alpine ski resorts, making it a pleasant place to visit without vast hordes of tourists. 

In the summer, it’s worth visiting for numerous great mountain hikes. One of the better ones is towards Lago Blu, a beautiful lake that takes 3-4 hours to trek from Champoluc.

There are many other great walking routes nearby including towards Lago Perrin and up to the top of Monte Zerbion where a giant statue of the Virgin Mary overlooks the valley from above. 

In the winter, the hiking trails disappear in favor of ski slopes which generally attract a much younger, more party-orientated crowd. 

Aside from the main activities, there are some smaller attractions including a spa/gym with incredible mountain views and Champoluc Adventure Park where you can clamber along a series of ropes up high in the trees. 

The best time to visit for skiing is early December until mid-April. The best time to visit for walking is late June until mid-September. 

The easiest way to reach Champoluc is by bus from Turin. You will have to head to Verres and switch buses there. 

I’d recommend a 1-2 week stay. Although most visitors will only stay for 1 week. You can see everything at that time. Book one of the many hotels in town and enjoy your stay.

9. Turin, one of the top Northern Italian cities

Recommended by Laura from LauraDolciTravels.com

Turin, Italy’s very first capital, is a phenomenal city that continues to remain one of Italy’s hidden gems in the beautiful northern region of Piedmont. 

Known as the Paris of Italy, Turin is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in Italy, and shares similar refinement and elegance. Along with the architecture and culture, one of the most spectacular aspects of Turin is how the Alps hug and surround the city. Wherever you stand, you will see them in the distance. 

When it comes to the best things to do in Turin, the list is both never-ending and full of activities for everyone. From history lovers to architecture lovers, foodies, and more.

Some of the most iconic must-dos include the Mole Antonelliana, visiting the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, and the Egyptian Museum. 

Besides the activities and landmarks, one should visit Turin because it is a historically important and authentic Italian city. By visiting, you’ll get to travel deeper into northern Italian culture and discover the home of endless innovations – including hazelnut chocolate, espresso, and Fiat. 

Because this city is full of things to do and see, 2 to 3 full days is the perfect amount for a proper first visit. While Turin is wonderful year-round, I recommend visiting in early summer, fall, or December!

The best way to get to Turin is by flying into the Torino (Caselle) Airport, or Milan’s Malpensa airport and then taking a high-speed train.

My ultimate tip to enjoying Turin, and traveling in general, is to slow down and pay close attention to the small details and the locals. Let yourself get immersed in everything that makes up this spectacular city – not just the attractions

10. Cannobio, a non-touristy town in Northern Italy

Recommended by Zoe from TogetherInSwitzerland.com

Cannobio is a small but beautiful lesser-known location on the lakeside of Lake Maggiore in Italy. It’s the perfect to escape the crowds in Italy.

It’s situated right on the lake’s edge, with a beautiful waterfront promenade, cafes and restaurants. The village’s cobblestone streets and alleyways are perfect to get away from other tourists, with a homely vibe from locals. 

It’s worth visiting this hidden gem in Italy from early spring to late autumn when more local activities are on and better weather is expected.

You can reach Cannobio easily by car or a local bus. You can also get here by boat (weather permitting) from the many villages around the Lago Maggiore, like Verbania in Italy or Ascona in Switzerland.

For visiting, at least a weekend in Cannobio is best to enjoy most of the attractions, but longer is even better. This Italian location is the perfect hub for connecting with other local villages or for staying longer to relax. 

The local Sunday market is a must for local fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses. Locals also sell clothing, leather bags and accessories. This market is great to combine with many of the local Italian restaurants.

For those looking to explore nature nearby, you can consider hiking up to Monte Giove. This takes you to 1,298 meters above sea level or to the Orrido of Saint Anna scenic nature spot closer by. When back at the lake level, you can also swim in Lake Maggiore. 

Choose to stay at Hotel Cannobio for your visit. We had a lovely, relaxing time here.

We were helped by staff with local recommendations and travel tips. The location itself was perfectly centered. The mountainous views opposite the balcony were perfect after a long day of exploring. 

11. Valle di Cembra, a non-touristy place in the north of Italy

Recommended by Lavina D’Souza of ContinentHop.com 

Valle di Cembra is a peaceful place in northern Italy. It is hidden from the crowds of tourists and has a lot of culture, history, and beautiful nature. 

Valle di Cembra is the place if you want a real Italian experience away from the crowds. Discover the little villages tucked away along the valley, each rich in centuries-old customs.

Valle di Cembra offers much to appreciate its beauty. You can enjoy scenic hikes through lush farms and hills, accompanied by the taste of excellent local wine. 

Visit historic churches and small museums to delve into the area’s intriguing history and relish delicious local cuisine at family-run trattorias, where valley produce enhances every dish.

Getting to Valle di Cembra is straightforward. You may rent a car from Verona, the nearest major airport, and take a picturesque drive across the Italian countryside. 

Alternatively, you can take the train to Trento and then catch a bus to the valley.

You should go in the spring or autumn when it is quite pleasant. The golden vineyards of autumn and the spring wildflowers are only two examples of the beauty that can be found throughout the year.

To really enjoy Valle di Cembra’s relaxed vibe, make plans to spend a few days here. For a real local experience, think of a comfortable bed and breakfast or agriturismo.

In Valle di Cembra, you can enjoy the slow pace of life in rural Italy. Every moment is a chance to enjoy the easy things in life. Wander around and take your time. You’ll find secret gems that you will always remember.

12. Treviso, a town to discover Italy off-the-beaten-path near Venice

Recommended by Bradley from DreamBigTravelFarBlog.com

The moment you step foot in Treviso, you’ll understand why it garners the nickname “Little Venice”. Yet, you’ll see none of the crowds here. Treviso is one of the less touristy places in northern Italy.

Charming canals winding through houses, shaping the city’s architecture. With frescoed churches, cobblestone streets, and medieval buildings, the quaint ambiance of Treviso is truly captivating.

Despite being an underrated tourist destination and relatively quiet, it’s very close to Venice! The Treviso Airport Express Bus runs regularly between the airport in Treviso and Venice, and the trip takes only 1 hour and 10 minutes. From the airport, the city center is just a 20-minute bus ride away.

The main thing to do in Treviso is to trace the paths along the old walls that run around the edge of the city. This will take you to many of the best attractions while exploring the area. At certain points, you can even walk on the wall itself and have a charming view of the ancient gates and towers.

Make sure to visit the Treviso Cathedral, which dates back to the 6^th century, and go inside one of the many local cafes and bakeries throughout the historic center.

Don’t miss the iconic fish market, or the Pescheria, which is a tiny island in the middle of the Sile River! It closes by lunchtime, so do be there early.

For those who enjoy cycling or running, try one of the cycling routes that go along the river. Stop by the stunning Parco Regionale del Fiume Sile, a regional park with beautiful, lush landscapes!

In terms of the best time to visit, the weather in Treviso is most pleasant between spring and early summer. Early fall, or around September, is also a good time.

Two days should be more than enough to explore all that this small city has to offer. And, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from to make your stay here memorable.

The 12 best places to visit in Northern Italy to escape the crowds

Although Italy has so much to offer when you visit well-known places like Rome, Florence or Venice, it also has tons of hidden gems in the northern regions. There are plenty of other off-the-beaten-path destinations in the rest of Italy too!

And just because you head to Rome for a few days, it doesn’t mean you can’t escape the tourists there too! There are a bunch of hidden gems in Rome, as well as a slew of free activities to do.

But, we hope that with this article, you’ll be more inclined to get off the beaten path in the north of Italy. With the help of our blogger friends, we were able to uncover all the best places to visit in northern Italy.

As a reminder, here are the North Italy’s hidden gems:

1. Lake Iseo
2. Bergamo
3. Desenzano del Garda
4. Riva del Garda
5. Castell’Arquato
6. Lecco
7. Cuneo
8. Champoluc
9. Turin
10. Cannobio
11. Valle di Cembra
12. Treviso

Let us know in the comments which town you’re most excited to visit. When are you thinking of visiting the North of Italy? Are there other places we should be adding to our list?

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